End to End Ride June 2010

Steve's final thoughts on the ride

2010-08-12T09:36:00.000-07:00

Not sure how many people are still checking out our blog, but I did promise to put up my final thoughts on the ride, so here goes.
11 days that included a roller coaster of emotions and highs and lows, thankfully many more highs than lows. To be honest I completely loved the physical/mental challenge and just being with two of my closest mates, doing an activity that I absolutely love.
First disaster was avoided at Penzance, where Kev and I met Lee off the London train. He had the skewer off his turbo trainer still on his wheel and didn’t have his wheel skewer with him (middle of his wheel in laymans terms). But the spare wheel came to the rescue.
Day 1
It started off with a rainy, damp and miserable day, starting at Lands End. Full of nervous energy, lots of apprehension for what lay ahead. Although the strangest feeling of all for me was putting my bike on top of the support car and thinking that the next time I step on my driveway I will have got there all the way from the other end of the country by using my own pedal power.
The first day passed by without any major mishaps and the finniest thing happened when we entered a pub to eat in St Agnes. Denis had arrived an hour or so before and had told the whole pub that three heroes where about to enter and they deserved a round of applause when they walked in. That’s what we got!!!! Highly embarrassing and I wanted to crawl under the seating. I turned to Lee and said that my postman had cycled further on that day than I had.
Day 2 was full of steep hills, terrain that I usually go backwards on. But once we hit Newquay and some steep inclines I found myself tackling them comfortably and somehow enjoying it all. We took an alternative route near Padstow, a cycle path called the Camel Trail. This was a change of plan, it put us somewhat off course and behind schedule. We stopped for lunch on a hilltop, on the outskirts of Dartmoor and ensured that we had Cornish Pasties, seeing we were about to leave the county in the afternoon. We rode on the busy A30 for about five minutes as we approached Launceston and it was like navigating a motorway. Saw our first few end to enders and actually overtook one. The weather was glorious throughout the day, we entered Devon and soon after found our accommodation. That night we ate at a great pub called the Harris Arms, where all customers and staff gave donations towards the charity.
Day 3 didn’t get off to a great start, as Kev fell off his bike before we had gone anywhere. He was okay though and the funny thing was that he thought he was bleeding as he felt his back pocket. It was an energy gel that had burst in his pocket!!!
Great rolling course and fantastic weather yet again. Unfortunately, Lee had another mechanical, his back block/cassette broke, resulting in him freewheeling as he pedalled. Spare wheel on and a few unsuccessful visits to bike shops, but we reached Meare (Glastonbury) after a hard, but good day in the saddle. The Somerset Downs were stunning as we rode through them late afternoon. Lee had come up trumps again with the accommodation, a manor house, his PA was doing us proud!
Early start for day 4, knowing that we had 121 miles to cover (which turned out to be 132). Error one was opting to ride through Cheddar Gorge, not because it was a tough climb, but because it wasn’t on our intended route and took us a good 7 miles off course. We hit the suburbs of Bristol and then couldn’t find the way onto the Avonmouth bridge. Then we could see the Severn Bridge, but got lost in the huge industrial estate near the docks. We reached Chepstow at about 2.30pm and ate at a grotty hotel. The drop down to Monmouth was stunning and almost all downhill. But error two (or four if you ignore the bridge navigations) was made as the bike sat nav went off as we reached Monmouth. Lee stepped in and used the maps we had, but the route was gruelling and although we hardly saw any cars, we hit steep hills, one after another! We weaved around the countryside for hours without getting nearer to the days destination. This sapped our energies and we carried on with heavy legs for the rest of the day. By 7.15pm we had to stop and eat at a pub. We sat outside and ordered steaks all around, but hardly a word was spoken. Tempers were really frayed at this point. I was very quiet because I felt like I had let everyone down by failing to navigate accurately and it also had something to do with the fact that Jen had taken me to one side and told me how many miles were left to the B and B (over 35 miles and it was 8pm). I didn’t have the heart to tell the lads, who seemed dead on their feet.
We set off from the pub, with greasy, iffy food in our stomachs and within 100 metres we hit a hill, that headed to a place called Arthur’s Stone (near Haye on Wye). It was a killer and we were all cursing, barely able to turn the pedals. What made it worse was a dog that was zigzagging between us, undecided as to who’s leg to taste first. So strange how when you are at your lowest point and something unexpected happens to lift you. Firstly, as the light started to fade we passed a pub in the middle of nowhere and all the locals had obviously spotted our support car and knew why we were riding, because as we passed they all got up off the stone steps at the front of the pub and gave us a round of applause (this one was welcomed). Then a buzzard flew above us for a good few hundred metres. We all commented on this and picked up the pace. The support car was behind us with lights on for the last few miles, which enabled us to spot an owl sat at the side of the road, taking off as we approached. I’m no Bill Oddie, but these things gave us a huge boost. Day 4 was 132 miles in total and we reached the B and B at 10pm.
Day 5 was filled with apprehension due to the fact that on paper it was a longer mileage route that the day before. But we knew that each pedal rev meant a bit closer to reaching home and that was incentive enough. All went well and some sunning countryside, in fact we took a route that meant we didn’t see a car for almost the whole morning.
We reached Tarporly in Cheshire late afternoon and stopped for coffee, we seemed bombarded with messages asking what time we were due past certain points, impossible to predict. Getting to the Runcorn Bridge was horrific, as Lee was drained and in a bad way. He zig zagged through the road cones on the bridge, slowing down with every mile ticked off. The bad news about Eze must have also been affecting him badly. It seemed to take an age to reach St Helens. Lee appeared to pick up as we rode down the Rainford bypass. But news that night was that after all his tremendous efforts to hang in, he had no choice but to go to see his little fella the following morning.
Day 6 started with me feeling subdued as a result of Lee not being on the ride anymore. I felt for him and was also eager to see Eze better. But he was like my wingman on the ride. If the Sat Nav failed, I would grab the maps from his pocket and between us, we would work out where we should head.
I got a great boost though as we met H.Middleton CC club riders, about 40 odd. We all headed out to the café in Scorton and having them alongside us will be a lasting memory for me. After Scorton the club left us and when Steve B eventually found the café we were off again, but this time facing our first rain of the ride. Kev’s back kicked off and my feet were screaming with stabbing pains. But we managed to reach Grassmere in good time, wet and a little tired after the long previous two days efforts still in our legs. The whole dynamic of the group had changed overnight. It would have been strange having lost Denis and Jen, who had been brilliant support for five days. But the absence of Lee made the adjustments even greater. But it was welcome onboard Steve B and two left on bikes.
Day 7 started with fine drizzle and low clouds. We were into our first climb up Dunmail Raise within two miles of the B and B. At the precise moment we reached the summit a Harrier Jet thundered directly over our heads. Kev let out a yell and I actually ducked, grabbing my handlebars as tight as I could. It’s so strange, the book we based our route on warns of the approach to the summit of that climb and Harrier Jets!
The route through the West side of Thirlmere was stunning and we took our time, taking loads of pics.
Then it was onto a busy A road heading towards Penrith. We then took another stunning route through to Hesket Newmarket, a tiny place where we stopped for tea and got a donation from a bloke who had read the car livery.
Carlise was navigated without hitting the busy parts and we found a wonderful road that ran alongside the motorway for a few miles, great surface and no traffic on it. Kev struggled around this point, I think it was a combination of his back pain and hunger knock. But from this point on he seemed to have a tough time.
Gretna was a photo opportunity and nothing else. There was nowhere decent to eat, so we rode on to Annan. Kev and I pulled a great stunt after Annan, let’s just say it had something to do with full moons as he approached in the support car.
Our B and B in Dumfries was a farmhouse and we got the converted cow sheds, which was the run of a whole house. But we were far too tired and that was an early night.
Day 8 was another poor day weather wise, rain and more rain. We had a race on to catch a ferry at Androssen and 75 miles to cover before 3pm. The route to the ferry was unspectacular and we had to deal with a few busy roads, especially after Irvine.
We were both soaked and drained in the ferry, but the break allowed us to grab some food and get a change of kit. I wish we had seen Arran without the low cloud and rain because it looks like a stunning place. Off the ferry and about 17 miles to the hotel on Lochranza, but a big mountain to get over first. After the tough climbs we had triumphed over in Cornwall this bump in Arran didn’t pose too much of a challenge.
We were unfortunately met by the least accommodating and helpful host of the whole trip, DON’T STAY IN THE LOCHRANZA HOTEL if you ever stay on Arran. He wouldn’t dry our kit, he wouldn’t give us an early breakfast the next day and best of all, he wouldn’t lock up our bikes. He was quite stubborn on this last point and claimed that nothing is ever stolen in Arran (apart from his personality). I took matters into my own hands and carried my bike to my room when the staff weren’t looking.
Day 9 a very early start. The ferry was 100 metres from our hotel, but we still didn’t get a breakfast. Ronny B’s flapjacks came to the rescue though and we filled our faces with a few pieces each. The ferry was only 20 mins, but I felt really sick. It was a ride of 15 miles to the fishing village of Tarbert on the other side. Kev and I were lifted by the news that Lee was about to join us a bit later that morning. Eze was better and Denis was a star, he had set off early that morning to drop Lee back on route.
We were starving by the time we reached the café in Tarbert, but despite this I was up for some practical jokes. I placed my fart machine in my coat on the back of Steve B’s chair and you can picture what I did to amuse Kev and myself for the next 30 mins. The girls in the café were startled a few times. But Steve eventually stormed out of the café and stood outside near the harbour wall. I only later found out that he was angry because he thought I was actually passing wind!!!! This made it all the more amusing. Twenty odd miles down the road Denis caught us up and Lee was back on the ride. It was superb to have him back on, but got to be honest, our average speeds dropped dramatically, sorry Lee!
The road from Oban was a main road, but some stunning places and bridges were passed. We reached Ballachulish in good time and a great hotel in an amazing spot.
Day 10
A day of contrasting emotions, with a superb, breathtaking ride through the Caledonia Canal and East side of Loch Ness. But contrast that with the ugly, hard slog out of the back of Inverness and the seemingly never ending route to Tain.
We had superb weather, although it was nowhere near as warm as down South, hence the long sleeves all day. Ben Nevis was crystal clear and we found ourselves stopping every few minutes to take pics of the breathtaking scenery.
We were soon given a reality check once we opted for the Easterly route through Loch Ness, hitting very steep and very long ascents, one after another. Lee fell off the back on the first half hour of this part of the route. Then suddenly, out of the blue he came sweeping past Kev and I at the foot of another steep climb. It was even funnier because of the fact that he looked left at us and laughed in our faces. All we could do was watch, as he soon became a dot on the landscape. He was to pay for that big time later in the day when fatigue kicked in.
We stopped late afternoon at a pub at the top of the Loch and were surrounded by other people who’s attire was on a par with ours. It turned out that we had stopped next to the site of the Rock Ness music festival.
Inverness was navigated easily, but the roads out North were very busy and we found ourselves dicing with HGV vehicles.
It seemed like we were struggling to get any closer to that nights stop in Tain and seeking a ‘shorter’ route, we headed through Invergordon, a really run down and backward town. As we rode along the estuary we passed giant Oil Rigs that had been towed in for repairs. I had a car swerve in needlessly towards me on this road, so I greeted this with a suitable hand signal and various expletives. I had only picked the local psycho, who decided to continually follow me for several miles, waiting for his opportunity to fill me in. I looked behind for back up and both Kev and Lee were nowhere to be seen. I know I was riding strongly throughout the ride, but was the fact that I was so far ahead something to do with the Hill Billy on my case?
We reached Tain totally shattered and starving. The hospitality of our hosts was second to none, keeping the restaurant open for us and also washing all of our grotty kit. DO STOP AT THE CARNEGIE LODGE Tain if you are ever in that area.

Day 11
The final push, a strange feeling and atmosphere hung amongst us as we prepared to head off. We had a few alternatives for the route and a decision had to be made about 30 miles into the day. The road was the main artery to the North coast, classed as an A road, but quite narrow in places. We found it relatively quiet as we hit a few patches of rain. This was the day that we spotted more end to enders than in the previous 10 days combined. We even saw 6 soldiers in a line running the route south bound. I had to pause and sit up to applaud them. Others on bikes were shouting across the road to us and encouraging us, as they too headed south, probably on day two, or three of their challenge.
We stopped for coffee in Helmstead at a run down hotel, where the owner told us she was from Warrington. Kev took the opportunity to go to the Halifax bank when we were there and the girls behind the counter laughed and doubted he would make it over the Berredale Braes! He came out looking very concerned and we discussed the alternative, which was to head inland and across the mossy wilderness towards Thurso. It looked extremely bleak in that direction as the rain fell more heavily and there was also now a strong headwind. So we opted for the Breas and stayed on the main A road towards Wick. Mind over matter, the Berredale Braes were a test, but we had coped with all sorts off steep ascents this past week or so and these were just another obstacle to cross.
We were overtaken on the way toward Wick by three younger and fitter lads, who it turned out were doing the journey in 7 days. They were Edinburgh Uni students, originally from Aberdeen. Their overtaking manoeuvre niggled me (silly of me really), so I decided to dig in and catch them up. I went past 2 of them, but the third was a lot faster than his mates and it took more effort, but I eventually got onto his wheel. I don’t think Kev appreciated my efforts as he sat on my wheel as I hunted them down one by one. Eventually, I ended up doing a two up (alternating, each rider takes turns on the front) with the Jock. He was a good lad and I ended up riding through Wick and on towards John O’Groats with him. Eventually, we decided to pull over near our respective support vehicles and wait for our own groups before riding into JOG. Kev came through the driving rain first, then a while later Lee made it. We then rode together for the final 5 or 6 miles and rolled into John O’Groats. We had sent Steve B ahead to film us riding in and over the finish line. However, as we approached he drove past up out of the town!!!! We had to do a U turn and hang around and it was freezing cold. 10 mins later we tried again, only for him to botch up the filming. But this made it funnier and the resultant footage we have is priceless.
There was an anticlimax as we crossed the line and onto a derelict hotel and barriers. Hugs around, very emotional, but quiet strange that it was all over. I must admit though, as I walked into the café to get a warm drink to thaw me out, I felt an overwhelming sense of achievement. Lots of the customers were those who were about to head off on their end to end the following day and several asked questions about our ride.
We waited at the finger post for pics and the photographer was a bad tempered cockney bloke, he acted and even looked like the miserable children’s entertainer on the Punch and Judy on the TV show Hi Di Hi.
Bikes onto the car and a race back to the hotel in Tain, an hour or so drive away. The hotel gave us a room each and greeted us as we arrived, congratulating us. There was no desire to have a boozy night with high spirits celebrating. We had a relaxed meal and a few drinks in the hotel bar, knowing that we didn’t have to prepare bikes, kit, route, nutrition and hydration etc… for the following day. I actually felt sad that the challenge was over, but that great sense that we had achieved something significant will stay with me, along with some special memories.

Highlights of the trip
Camel Trail
Denis’s Linen jacket and Panama hat
Harris Arms meal and customers generosity
Cheddar Gorge
Back lanes in Devon, Somerset and Herefordshire
Severn Bridge
Buzzard flying with us
Cheers and applause at pub in Herefordshire
Welcoming at the Cockbeck from family and friends
Ride out with H.Middleton CC
West side of Thirlmere
Applause off cyclists in Lake District
Pass on Arran
Falls of Laura Bridge
Loch Levin Hotel
Caledonia Canal
The blur Lee speeding past Kev and I up a steep hill on the East side of Loch Ness
Carnegie hotel hospitality and generosity (twice)
Accommodation at St Agnes, Meare and Ballachulish (thanks Lee’s P.A.)
Ronnie’s Flapjacks
Steve B’s video editing antics at John O’ Groats
0 punctures
The ride was dedicated to my great friend Kev’s beloved Carla and the money raised is going to a wonderful cause. I would like to thank everyone who showed amazing generosity by donating and also to Matt at Cyclexpress, Terry Dolan and Mr Jones of Halliwell Jones.
I would also like to dedicate the ride to my mum, who bravely fought breast cancer a few years ago and showed incredible courage throughout difficult times.
Would I do it again, definitely. But I would take two weeks or even more to take in the places that we ride through. A wonderful book was the inspiration behind the route. If you ever do this ride read Phil Horsley’s book first.
So, onto the next challenge, watch this space!

All our pics

2010-07-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

Take a look at all our pics from our ride last month. Will embed a link to videos soon and look out for Kev falling off his bike!
Paste the URL into your address bar to see slideshow.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/47265390@N07/show/

Thank you

2010-06-24T15:23:00.000-07:00

Not put my (Steve) final thoughts on the blog yet, I have been trying to keep my head above water battling to meet deadlines in work. It's all what I missed during the half term holidays when I was meant to do reports, assessments etc.... It was much more enjoyable climbing those steep hills and battling against driving rain and headwinds in Scotland than the boring bit of my job.
Specail thanks to my wonderful neighbours for their kind donations and the CONGRATULATIONS banners and balloons. Thanks to all the children and their parents at Queens Park who donated and all the staff who showed incredible generosity. Thanks to my family who also dug deep and all my mums friends.
Thanks to H. Middleton CC riders and also the customers of the Cockbeck Tavern who backed us during our mid journey night at home. Thanks to our wonderful support team of Denis and Jen, who not only gave up a week of their time, but also gave a very generous donation. Thanks to Denis's golf buddies at Ashton golf club too.
When my admin work is completed I will put together my thoughts on the whole ride, the emotions, the ups and downs (there were many more ups than downs, just ask Lee!).
I will also put a link on here to view all of our pictures from the ride, most of which I have already uploaded onto flikr.
The kindness shown by so many people has blown me away.

Reaching John O Groats

2010-06-12T01:15:00.000-07:00

The day started early with a choice of route, either to go up the A9 or go inland at Helmstead and tackle the winderness. The rain started to fall about 30 mins in and the temps dropped dramtically. We pulled on our capes and then reached Helmstead. Stopped for coffee in Helmstead and decided to carry on the A9 and A99. It was a road that we had been warned about, but we found it quite quiet. Kev went into the Halifax bank in Helmstead and the girls laughed at him warning him that the climbs ahead would challenge us to the max. Berridale Braes awaited. These hairpin bends that climb to 500ft are a challenge to any cyclist. But the three of us flew up them, something to do with all the previous climbs that we have conquered in the previous 10 days.
The rain increased in intensity and the wind got stronger, changing to a headwind by the time we reached Wick. I (Steve) rode with one of three lads from Aberdeen, who were doing the end to end in 7 days. We took turns on the front until the final 8 miles of our journey. I pulled into a lay-by and waited for Kev (who's back was troubling him) and Lee, who was going at his own pace (paying for his breakaway from the previous day on a tough climb).
The last few miles were tough, so cold and such a bleak place. We rode into John O Groats as a three and were met at the finish line by Steve B with vedeo camera in hand. He made us do about 3 takes, until we were sick of riding back and forward over the finish line (there was a danger of clocking up another thousand miles).
At the finger post we had the grumpy fella from Hi Di Hi, who did the Punch and Judy show taking our pictures. He even got the date wrong on the post (we finished on 11th June). Total miles clocked was 1037 miles. More stats to follow when I can upload the Garmin.
Then it was back to the Carnegie Lodge to enjoy their wonderful hospitality. A few beers sank and a huge meal, trying to take in what we had all achieved.
Thanks to everyone who has supported our ride with sponsorship, words of encouragement and kindness.
We hope next weeks charity night carries on raising lots of money for the fund.
Pics - The finger post at a freezing John O Groats and the end of the Braes.

Penultimate day

2010-06-10T15:22:00.000-07:00

Great hotel last night and hit the road at 9ish this morning. There were 7 fellas staying in our hotel and we had a target of trying to catch them, even though they had set off an hour before us. Lee's face dropped when I said what my intentions were. Luckily they were on a different route.
Hit Fort William and Ben Nevis in good time. I (Steve) opted for a minor road that took us along the Caledonian Canal and stunning views that were jaw dropping.
Loch Ness next and a mad route to the right of the lake, which took us away and up a few mountains. Crazy climbs sapped us. But it was strange when Kev and I battled up yet another steep hill, Lee rocketted past us!!!!! This was the first and only time that this has happened on the whole ride. But the mere fact that he did it amused Kev and I for a while.
Stunning views and roads again took us along the side of Loch Ness. We had to stop for food next to the RockNess music festival in Inverness. At least we were not the only ones in strange clothes in the pub.
The drag on the A9 through and out of Inverness was a nightmare, busy roads and energy sapping surfaces. Over the Spean and Cronarty Bridges, then on a silly detour along the river Firth towards Tain.
In total we covered 115 miles and rode from 9am until 8.30pm.
The final push is tomorrow and another long day in the saddle.
The Carnegie Lodge Hotel staff have done everything for us and the owner Heather has been fantastic. She has kept the restaurant open for us, washed our kit and also offered a free nights stay tomorrow if we want it. I would highly recommend this place, amazing hospitality.
Pics include Ben Nevis, the three of us climbing at the Eastern edge of Loch Ness, outside the beautiful Loch Leven Hotel with Glen Coe behind. Steve on top of the WW2 Commando memorial and Kev and Lee descending towards the Caledonian Canal crossing.

Day 9 Then there were 3 (again)

2010-06-09T15:23:00.000-07:00

Early start to catch the ferry back to the mainland. DON'T STAY IN THE LOCKRANZA HOTEL IF YOU ARE EVER ON ARRAN. Got my own back though by sleeping with my bike in the room. He refused to give an early breakfast so after the 30 min ferry, we had to climb a load of hills on an empty belly. Arrived in Tarbert fishing harbour and grabbed breakfast, the runniest scrambled eggs Kev has ever experienced (Beginning to sound like Chinook here).
Had a call from Lee via our support (Ste B) and he later caught us up on route. It was also nice to see Denis and Jen (week 1 support) and have lunch with them. Lee was quite bright and cheerful, probably due to baby Eze perking up and also having a few days rest and mountains of food. It has rained constantly since Lee left to join Ell and the baby. But as soon as he jumped back onto the ride it started cracking the flags!!!!
Once we started hitting a few hills he (Lee) was back into his usual pace, Eg sloooooow! Joking Lee.
We passed through Oban during peak time and crossed the Connel Bridge.
Suddenly, we were faced with strong headwinds for the next 36 miles, not pleasant when you are running on empty and are desperate to get to your hotel. But it was worth the huge efforts, as a beautiful place met us. The sight of Glen Coe over the bridge to Ballachulish was breathtaking and the Loch Levin Hotel is equally wonderful.
Three course dinner and watching the sunset (yes sun!!!!) at about 10.30pm, coupled with being back to a 3 has given us a much needed boost for the final push through the Caledonian canal/ Great Glen towards the East coast. Kev and Ste B met up with Karen Aspinall (old diving buddy) at the hotel. Kren told us that her husband had seen us on the road up here before, but we were travelling so fast (except Lee) that he never had chance to shout us.

day 8 arran

2010-06-08T23:42:00.000-07:00

We left our B+B after another great breakfast and headed towards Lanarkshire in heavy rain. We had to push hard to make the 3.30pm ferry over to Arran. Got lost in traffic in Irvine, but car sat nav saved the day. Not the best day on the bike as most of the journey was through heavy traffic and towns.
Arrived at ferry terminal with only 5 minutes to spare. Arrived in Brodrick on Arran, headed out to Lochranza again in more heavy rain, this time up a steep pass around 750 feet. Looked daunting from the bottom, but Steve and I (Kev) managed the climb ok. Enjoyed the decent into Lochranza. Found the hotel. Some of the staff were far from helpful.
Heading towards the mainland on the 8.15 ferry tomorrow, hoping for better weather.
Meeting Lee in Oban.
Keeping this blog update short, as we are all totally knackered. Need some sleep!
Pics include Sudocrem applied to feet, Androssen Ferry and Steve's bike tucked up in his room (The hotel owner refused to lock the bikes up), Lochranza Castle and the skyline in Arran at 10.30pm.

Day 7 (Chilly Jockoland)

2010-06-08T00:09:00.000-07:00

Had a good feed last night and met up with our old buddy from home Little Ally. He's up in Kirkby Lonsdale now and it was great to see him. We were both on a high still after the fantastic send off from the club in the day.
Stayed in Nab Cottage and Tim Melling and his wife were very welcoming. They only charged £30 for the three of us, a donation towards the charity. On the road for 9am and hit Dunmail Raise straight away. This long climb almost saw a reappearance of breakfast. As we got to th summit in driving rain a fighter jet screamed over our heads. This gave Kev and I such a buzz and the noise was incredible. We thought it may be Lee catching us up!
Thirlmere lake next and a great route around the West bank. Onto Keswick and out to Hesket Newmarket with a few naughty climbs. We were spurred on by cheering at he edge of a mountain by cyclists sat on a wall, another much needed boost. At Hesket Newmarket we stopped at a cafe, where Martin (a local) donated £10!! A lovely gesture. Then Diane, who served us toast and coffee also donated. The peopl we have met and have shown kindness on this epic journey have all made the trip so memorable.
We left the cafe in torrential rain and rode on for a few hours, skirting Carlisle and on towards Gretna. Kev was beginning to suffer hunger knock around Annan, so we stopped for food at about 3pm. The weather brightened up and capes were thrown back in the car. There was a great route through the edge of the Solway Firth. Dumfries next and through to this beautiful valley here in Auldgirth, where we are staying on a farm.
Tomorrow is a tough route through to Androssan, where we will catch a ferry over to Arran. Both Kev and I are quite shattered after a few tough days.
Lee has contacted and is planning to join us somewhere near to Fort William on Wednesday. Little Eze is much improved, great news.

Day 6 (Home to the Lake District)

2010-06-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

Start with a huge thank you to all who kindly donated at the Coey last night and all those who have donated from the H. Middleton CC.
Set off with our fresh driver onboard, welcome Ste B and a great first day in support.
We arrived at the shop at 8.20am and people came to see us off. The club all started arriving and I think the numbers were round 40 riders. Kev and I were asked to lead out towards Scorton and although Kev should have sat on wheels, he st the pace with Matt on the front. Got to th cafe in no time, think it was less than two hours.
Big feed of jacket potatoes and coffee. Ste caught us up and the three of us headed out towards Lancaster, Carnforth and Milnthorpe, all on the A6, which wasn't too bad.
The heavens opened aroun Levens and we got a bit of a soaking alongside Windermere. Sat here in Nab Cottage alongside Rydal Water, great place and Tim has welcomed us.
Just off for food into Ambleside and to meet up with Little Ali.
Thanks again to all the club for your support and it's give us a huge boost for he journey into Scotland.
If any of the Queens Park children are following, we rode past school last night at 7pm. Looked out for you, but ddn't spot anyone at that time. Keep following and the miles are clocking up for our competition.

Eze does it.....

2010-06-06T08:50:00.000-07:00

As you have probably read I (Lee) have had to drop off the ride due to Eze being admitted to hospital with a suspected case of Ecoli. As Kev and Steve were riding off with the Cycling Club from Middleton's thismorning I was in hospital with Eze. The poor fella is not happy although the doctors have hopefully found the cause and the particular bug that has infected his system. It means he's going to be in hospital for a while as they treat it and see how he responds. I know Kev and Steve totally understand why I made this decision to drop off. My thoughts are with you boys. Here's a few photos I had on my camera. One enterting Wales at some point yesterday, or was it the day before? And another couple from the Seven Bridge. I'd like to add my thanks to my Dad and Jen for their support over the last 5 days. They are very much part of the team, and good luck Steve B, you've got some big boots to fill, but I've got no doubt you'll do it perfectly....especially the rubbing in of cream in delicate places. Good speed, stay mechanically sound and remember to do what Steve D suggested, look around and enjoy and if you can't whistle up hill you're working too hard. If Eze responds well, start looking over your shoulder for a bloke bent over the handle bars chasing you up the road.

Day 5

2010-06-05T15:36:00.000-07:00

Writing blog (Steve) after another looooong days riding. We clocked 131 miles yesterday and 131 miles today very strange coincidence. It's so mad thinking that we were setting off from Glastonbury at 8.30am yesterday and we are here at home two days later.
We are going to be down to two riders tomorrow. I'm totally gutted to be losing Lee. He will post his own blog when he can. We pray that he can join us en route asap. What a great ride to date mate, proud of you. It goes without saying how much you are going to be missed. We have become a tight bunch.

In a bit of a daze here, so tired and lots to do to get ready in the morning for the push up North.
Today was really tough, all running on empty for much of the day. But the good ting was that it was relatively flattish. Look up Aymestrey on a map and take in that it's south of Birmingham. A long trek up to home.
Really looking forward to getting out of here, a strange sensation being home, but also looking forward to riding out to Scorton with the club on our way to Grassmere.
Big mention to Denis and Jenny, who we have had giving the most amazing support in the first half of our epic journey. Drivers, navigators, masseurs, medics, pa's, organisers, the list is endless. We will be forever indebted to you both and will miss the pampering that you have given us. Welcome on board Stevie B, a great addition to our group.
Time for some shut eye and hope to update from the Lake District tomorrow.
X

Day 4

2010-06-04T14:54:00.000-07:00

131 miles! Set off from Glastonbury at 8:30am arrived at B&B at 10pm with two 30min breaks! (blog updated via phone call to Amelia). Long day tomorrow. Pics of cheddar gorge, 7 bridge etc to follow. Off to sleep!!!!!
Pics of Cheddar Gorge and 7 Bridge (England to Wales).
Pics include Much needed drinks north of Monmouth Wales.
Setting off from Meare (Glastonbury).
Lee and Kev shattered after 131 tough miles of climbing.
Lee and Denis arriving at the accomodation in Herefordshire 10pm.
Kev and Steve tackling Cheddar Gorge.
Lee and Kev on the Severn Bridge crossing into Wales.

It's hot and no amount of linen will help....

2010-06-03T14:44:00.000-07:00

We stayed in a great place last night and dined at the local eatery, the Harris Arms, which, as we have more or less found with everyone we encounter, we received a friendly and warm welcome. In fact the four people sitting close to us in the restaurant gave us £20 and the owners of the pub another £10. We woke up this morning really looking forward to the day but it started badly, 1 hour of pure hills followed by Lee's cassette on the back cog breaking. Thankully Matty M had provided a spare back wheel otherwise we'd have been in a right state. Things got better and going through a beautiful village called, well who knows, there are so many, a little old lady and her husband stopped their car where we were parked getting supplies and handed us £4 out of her purse. We also met a bloke called Rob in a big yellow jacket and a bike laden with two huge saddle bags who is doing the ride on his own. Hello Rob if you are reading. The country side is beautiful and we've had our best day yet...93 miles today and considering we've got over 100 miles to do tomorrow as well as negotiating Bristol and one of the bridges....who knows which one the sat nav will take us over...we'd better get some kip.

Me in Denis's gear

2010-06-02T10:36:00.001-07:00

He still does't know I had his Safari outfit on! I look like Jom Carey in The Mask, smokin!!!!

day 2 (more pics)

2010-06-02T10:29:00.001-07:00

Day 2

2010-06-02T10:02:00.000-07:00

The most enjoyable day I think I (Steve) have ever had in the saddle. Glorious weather (Zebra tan), stunning scenery along a rugged coastline and monster climbs all day. Don't think Lee will agree re the hills and their steepness.
Set off from St Agnes at 9am and headed for Newquay. It tested us all fo the first hour or two with constant climbing. At Padstow I decided on a detour and the Camel Trail cycle route, which slowed our progress a little. Stopped for lunch overlooking Bodmin Moor and had Cornish Pasties all round (as we were about to leave the county). Cut inland and headed for Launceston. Made it to the B and B for 5pm with Lee looking for a new set of lungs and legs. But he lad did well and we spent a lot of the day allowing im to dictate the pace.
Met another End to Ender just outside Launceston and he's taking 18 days for his.
Totally loving this adventure and for some strange reason, I loved the hills today.
Denis has just left for he village pub, so I'm expecting there will be bunting and a brass band laid on by the locals after last nights saga!!!!!
Take the mick out of Denis, but his support driving and all it includes is first class. They (Denis and Jenny)are there at the side of the road, either handing out drinks or video camera/ digital camera in hand. Kev's going great and it's wonderful to see him riding with a huge grin on his face.

2010-06-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

The day started with a lot of faffing (mostly by me, Kev) Weather was not good with a lot of sea mist which kept visibility down. We got all the photos, signed in at the Lands End Hotel then we were on our way.
I was pretty emotional at the start, Carla would have given me a slap, so decided to put my head down and just get on with it.
As we cycled towards our half way break the weather started to improve, we rode down into St Ives with the sun out and lovely blue sky. St Ives was packed, found it difficult to find somewhere to stop for a bit of lunch, eventually found a little place out the way. People are generally very supportive but some think we have almost finished....one more day, they shout......maybe that was because we were going in the wrong direction....sat nav decided to do its own thing...or was it because Steve had fixed it to his bike backwards? Who knows, but we made it eventually to St Agnes, having done an extra ten miles. We are staying in a lovely B&B called Kimberely..really lovely. We went into town to the nearest pub/restaurant, although Denis and Jen had gone ahead. We walked into the pub and received a round of applause...very embarrassing, who knows what Denis had told them, and as Steve pointed out, his postman had probably ridden further than us that day.
Tough day ahead today, very testing hills and the miles increase considerably.

Day 1

2010-06-01T22:46:00.003-07:00

Penzance (eve before the start)

2010-05-31T10:58:00.000-07:00

Arrived safely in Penzance after stress free 6hr drive down. Booked into Faulty Towers with Basil. I (Steve) ate a banana every time I spotted a significant hill South of Bristol. Got through 4 bunches and found myself swinging (like a baboon) out of the car when we arrived. Wish I had packed blinkers, it's either up or down, playing on my mind.
Took a walk around Penzance and had a quick coffee whilst we waited for Lees train to arrive at 5.30.
Passed a weigh bridge as we were walking near the sea front and had to climb on, me being the groups fat cyclist. Be interesting to see how much I lose by JOG.
Pics include Lee arriving, weigh bridge and 1st days nutrition. Off out now for more Food!!!!

Ready to travel to the start line

2010-05-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

Well, it seemed like we had ages left and suddenly it's crept up and here we are setting off in the morning. (Steve) Opted to ride with the clubs social group this morning and it was a very gentle pace. Lots of stop starts too, as there was a fella with us called Flat Eric (Just the name I gave him due to puncturing several times). Been rushed off my feet with last minute arrangements. I have still got to pack, eat and then reroute the Gramin Sat Nav for parts of days 3 and day 11.
Poor Lee's last few days have been a nightmare and it didn't look like he was going to join us on Friday night as baby Eze was taken into hospital. Just spoken to him and the little fella has picked up and came out after 24 hours. So looks like we will be back to a three now. Lee's had no riding in the past week and will naturally be a bit rusty come Tuesday.
However, it's Kev who has had the biggest problems leading up to the ride. He can't decide what type of conditioner to pack (oh, to have hair).

Liverpool Womens Hospital

2010-05-27T13:12:00.000-07:00

I (Kev) had an emotional return to the Liverpool Women's Hospital this morning, for a photo shoot for The Liverpool Echo with some of the Nursers. It was lovely to meet up with Chris Webster again the MacMillan Clinical Nurse Specialist, who deserves a medal for the amazing work that she does. She was fantastic with Carla.
Carla always talked about Chris.

Wax or Shave, you decide

2010-05-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

Lee called before. The London boy has gone under the blade, he's shaved his legs in preparation for the big ride. We will look like a pro team now, with shaved legs, matching kit, top bikes and a fancy support car. Pity Lee still has his stabilizers attached!

Feet First

2010-05-27T12:32:00.000-07:00

(Steve) Had an appointment with the chiropodist at 5.40, wanting my poor feet to stand up to the millions, yes millions of pedal revs in the next two weeks. Sheila Morris did a wonderful job and now I'm not so concerned about my toes giving me so much pain.
Chatted to Sheila about what lay ahead and what the charity is all about. Couldn't believe it when I came to pay up and she told me to donate her fee to the charity.
Thanks a lot Sheila, fantastic generosity.
A plug is the least I can do and highly recommended - Sheila Morris Chiropodist/Podiatrist, Aughton Surgery.

Loverly Lady

2010-05-25T09:23:00.000-07:00

I (Kev) went into Ormskirk this morning to go to the Bank and as I locked the car a lovely lady on crutches came over to me and asked if she could sponsor our ride.The kind lady had seen the charity on the car and said that she had heard me on the radio.
She wanted to put some money into my bucket. I explained that I didn't have a bucket for her donation, so I gave her a Blog card and told her about our Blog and about the link to our Just Giving site. With help from her Daughter, she said she would be happy to sponsor us through Just Giving. I told her about Carla and she then shook me by the hand and said "you are doing an amazing thing"
I asked the lovely Lady for her name, unfortunately I didn't write it down, so typical me, memory like sieve I forgot it! If that nice lady reads this, I am very sorry for forgetting your name.
Bless you.

Queen's Park School Involvement

2010-05-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

The St Helens Star arrived today to take some snaps of the children, Kev and I with the car. They should be publishing an article within the next week or so about the ride. The pic with this post is Mr Curran's attempt and not the Star's photographer's work.
The children were really excited meeting Kev and having their pics taken with the support vehicle. There's an own clothes day on Friday to support the charity and also a raffle being organised by the 'Friends of Queen's Park'. Kev and I have decided to open up a competition to all pupils who can have a go at guessing the exact miles we will cycle. The closest or exact guesses will be placed in a hat and will win a prize.
This time next week we will be in Penzance preparing our bikes and ourselves for the challenge ahead.
The plan for this week is minimum miles on the bike and lots of carbohydrates, with several early nights.
Can't wait to get started, especially after accompanying Steve D yesterday on his day 5.

End to Enders, end to homer and wanna be end to enders

2010-05-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Met the club, but decided to head South and try to meet up with Steve Diesel from the cycling club(who was on his day 5 end to end challenge). Kev got quite irate when I (Steve) couldn't quite get the Sat Nav to navigate out of Ormskirk on the route I'd plotted. After several attempts, I turned it off and relied on Steve Nav. I thought Kev was not happy with me at the start, but his anger built and peaked just after we had crossed the Runcorn Widnes bridge (I thought it was quite funny) as the traffic and main road was very busy and extremely unpleasant. He sounded like Mutley from Wacky Races, cursing me under his breath. His mood totally transformed when I got him to Frodsham and then on beautiful lanes through Delamere Forest. Took a refuel stop at Tarporley, very posh place and a nice cafe.
Headed back onto the A49 towards Whitchurch to meet Steve, who had called a few times. Got several miles up the road, then decided to pull over and wait for him.
Then at the brow of a long climb he appeared, but he had company (two lads from the club). Alongside him were Colin and Pantani (ex famous Italian cyclist) on a tandem. t was no ordinary tandem. It had the Skull and Crossbones flag flying from the back (The real Marco Pantani Christened himself el Pirate) and a white balloon flying high, attached by string. Upon closer inspection, they had insulation tape making allsorts of holders and cages. Sun cream, after sun, tools, tyre glue etc..... We set off with them and had a wonderful ride, which included a stop at a garden centre in Cheshire for fancy deserts and coffee. On to Stockton Heath, Warrington, (where we passed the stadium whilst a game was on), Ashton, Haydock, Billinge and home. Miles clocked today 89. something (not exactly sure, as I turned the Garmin off early on). Picked Steve D's brain and got great advice. Best of it was, "You will have all day to make it to the next B and B, so chill out and take all day if you want". Feel great after a Protein shake, shower and pasta. Scorching day today and so important to drink. Think I used 6 water bottles on the ride. Got 50 miles in yesterday too. Tapering training this week and eating lots of carbohydrates in preparation for the start in 8 days!

This Is It........

2010-05-23T10:08:00.001-07:00

This time next week will be our last day in our own beds before embarking on a madcap adventure from Lands End to John O Groats. I'm (Lee) already knackered thinking about it. Tried to get out today for what I hoped would be a decent prep ride but god it was hot, not helped by Ava keeping me up all night with a temperature of 39.6. She's OK now. Anyway did my usual trip to Richmond Park and went round and round until my limited sleep deprived strength gave out and I headed home. Only 55 miles. Actually got out yesterday morning too for a quick 25 miles before breakfast. Hope it's not so hot next week. Hope you boys got out and honed those riding skills to the maximum...remember you promised you'd wait for me.......happy days

Support Car

2010-05-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

This is the lovely BMW M5 that Phil Jones of Halliwell Jones has very kindly provided for us to use as our support vehicle.

Lord Lucan Appearance!

2010-05-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

Very good Kev. How did you manage to get a shot of us two with hands on hips at the same time?
Here's the official shot for the papers etc.....
No Photoshop software would be good enough to improve these terrible mug shots.

Polo Shirts

2010-05-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

I (Kev) picked up our polo shirts that will promote our ride from the printers today, when I presented them to Lee and Steve they looked a little disappointed, maybe I should have ordered theirs in Pink!!!

Very Sociable, Social Ride

2010-05-16T12:53:00.000-07:00

Dilemma today was, which ride to go out with???? Chipping with a mix of the race group and B's, never a good mix, as it constantly splits the bunch. Or the only other option was head out with the Social Group. We (Kev and I) opted for the later and had a most enjoyable ride. It was so relaxed and leisurely that we were able to chat throughout the ride, rarely do you have enough energy to chat constantly on a club ride. I even spotted Andy popping into a newsagents in Churchtown and still get back on the group. I must add that he was purchasing a drink, not the Sunday newspaper that I first thought he'd gone in for.
The route took us on some wonderful very minor roads that I didn't know existed around Hesketh Bank and Tarleton, then again through towards Bretherton.
The weekend has clocked up about 90 miles at quite a gentle pace. We had to do something to stop Lee falling further behind!
The picture was a reference to a socialable bike for a Social Group ride. Or it may be what we need to enable Lee to keep up. As for Downhill Danger, didn't you know Lee, my bike handling skills are from many years practise? Or is it that fat cyclists roll downhill much faster?

Eze does it....

2010-05-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

This is Eze at Ava's 5th birthday party yesterday. He was surrounded by screaming kids, yet the boy Eze finds a way to chill out and get some much needed shut eye. This is something I should have done (Lee) instead of staying up last night watching TV.....this was because today I went for what I was hoping to be a long ride. I haven't been out on the bike for two weeks and I could feel it. I was all over the place but managed to do 70 miles in the end, if not a little slower than I hoped. I was knackered at 40 miles but kept at it.....slowly...until I reached the 70 mark. Hoped to do a little more but no legs. Two weeks out not a good idea at this stage but no real choice. Hey hum. Kev and Steve, or as I like to call them, Up Hill Flyer and Down Hill Danger respectively, will need to keep me on their wheel best they can or its a long ride on my own come 1st June. Happy Days.

Gentle ride

2010-05-15T13:37:00.000-07:00

Had quite a leisurely ride out with Kev today. Either that or I'm not feeling the hills as much as I was!
Still, an enjoyable day, apart from Kev experiencing a bit of a mechanical problem which caused his headset to crack and creak constantly. However, a quick pit spot at H. Middletons and Matt's swift work had the fault sorted.
Even though I feel that I'm finding some sort of form, I still spend a lot of time with Kev up the road (especially on the inclines).
Was sent a plan of the car decals today from Paul and they look absolutely brilliant, picture to follow once the job is done.
All these sacrifices continue until the ride is over. That includes another early bed tonight, seeing it could be a long club ride in the morning, weather and plans permitting.

LIVERPOOL ECHO

2010-05-10T12:42:00.000-07:00

There was a brief article in todays Liverpool Echo about the ride (p.15). Hope to get a longer piece in during the next two weeks with a picture included.

Day 11 Route

2010-05-10T12:25:00.000-07:00

The final stage on the 11th June and we have an 88 mile journey to reach the finish line.

Day 10 Route

2010-05-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

10th June sees us follow the Caledonian canal (West coast to East) and along the side of Loch Ness.

Day 9 Route

2010-05-10T12:18:00.000-07:00

9th June and we are back on the mainland, taking a path North along the coast and through Oban, staying in Ballachulish (near Glencoe).

Day 8 Route

2010-05-10T12:16:00.001-07:00

Tuesday 8th June and we head for the ferry terminal after a long day in the saddle. A short trip over to Arran and then we do a lap of the island. Why you may ask? Well, because it's there and it looks really lovely.

Day 7 route

2010-05-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

Monday 7th June sees us entering our third country in a week. Hope Scotlands weather warms up for us.

Lancashire Lanes (H. Middleton CC version)

2010-05-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

Today was the date set for The Annual Lancashire Lanes event, which amazingly, takes in the lanes of Lancashire. It also includes Apply Bridge, Standish, the approach to Rivington via Haigh Hall, Winter Hill to Belmont and also Brindle etc... However, this year the organising club had a fall out, so it was left to our club to do the route without feed stations etc.....
A great turn out, with over 40 heading off from the shop (that was without many of the B group faces). Steve D punctured in Dalton, but apart from that there were no other dramas. I (Steve) felt great on the Winter Hill climb and I'm sure I even overtook several riders. There was a split in Mawdsley, just at the cafe turn off, so only about 14 of us hit the refreshment stop. Great to sit out on the decking, soaking up some sun at last.
I had to make a dash for it and get to the match for 4pm. Worth it when Billy popped up and hit the goal of the season.
Legs feel good now and I am itching to get on this end to end challenge now. Unfortunately, the next few weeks will be tough getting out to put miles in as the SAT's begin this week and us poor KS.1. staff have to mark them ourselves.
Hope Kev gets his head cam sorted out and maybe he can download footage of todays climb over Winter Hill for you to all look at.
Superb effort by Ronnie Bellion yesterday, who has managed to raise over £800 on her Garden Party for the charity. There was so much generosity shown by people who showed up too.
Great ride today and feeling more prepared for the hills of Cornwall and Devon.

Day 6

2010-05-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

On Sunday 6th June we will set off from H.Middleton Cycles in Ormskirk and will be joined by H.Middleton Cycling Club, who both Kev and I are members of. We have trained throughout the winter with the club and they are going to tie in the club Sunday outing to ride with us for part of the journey towards The Lake District. We are really looking forward to sitting on wheels amongst the group and having a great bunch as company up as far as Scorton cafe.
If you are around that morning come along to the shop to wave us off. The club normally set off about 9am.

DAY 5 Route

2010-05-06T12:34:00.001-07:00

122 miles, with our own beds at the end of the day (apart from Lee). Home sweet home, before we set off again the next day!

DAY 4 Route

2010-05-06T12:29:00.001-07:00

Another 121 miles, hope there's somewhere to get a massage after this stage!

DAY 3 Route

2010-05-06T12:23:00.001-07:00

The miles in the saddle begin to increase, this is a 109 mile ride.

DAY 2 Route

2010-05-06T12:13:00.001-07:00

It gets a lot tougher as we get through the days. The evelation on this day is silly.

DAY 1 Route

2010-05-06T11:55:00.001-07:00

Kev and I had a session/ lesson courtesy of Pete M on the Garmin Sat Nav for the bike. Pete set it all up for us and we are hoping to begin using it properly from now on. Thanks a million Pete, you are a saint.
Above is a screen shot of our day 1 route. I will post more over the next week or so.
We have put an article in this weeks Ormskirk Advertiser about Carla, the charity, our ride and sponsors support etc...Click on the link to read the article.
http://www.osadvertiser.co.uk/news/ormskirk-news/2010/05/06/aughton-friends-ride-in-memory-of-carla-maguire-to-raise-money-for-liverpool-women-s-hospital-80904-26381747/

Adding Comments to our blog

2010-05-05T10:14:00.001-07:00

Lots of people have tried to comment on our blogs and have been unsuccessful. Here's a basic set of instructions to help you though.
Click Comment
select Google account from the drop down menu
Add your comment
Click post comment
On Google account type your email address(hotmail) and hotmail password
or alternatively set up a google account.
Using either method alows you to comment on the blog.
We will need all the encouragement possible during the ride itself.

Media Training Not Required. Kev the Pro

2010-05-03T13:57:00.000-07:00

Today Kev and I went out to do a longish ride. The intention was a ride of 70 miles plus. However, the first thing that struck us was how cold it was, finger numbingly temperatures!!!! The rain clouds also gathered around us and there were a few threats of a downpour. So we opted for a shorter ride of 50 odd miles. Whilst we were out Kev got a call from his mate Gareth and was told that Radio Merseyside would be interested in our ride and Kev's story. It was great news and another way of publicising the charity. Then I took a call at about 4pm from Kev who was preparing for an interview to go out live at 5.40pm!!!!!!
His interview was excellent, calm, collected and managing to get in so many details in about 5 minutes of chat. You did us proud buddy!!!
To listen paste into your address bar - http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p007jxbz, then scroll to 53 minutes and about 20 seconds. The interview was today (3.5.10) and will stay on the site for 7 days.
Nice one Kev. This was good practice for TV - Granada Reports etc.....
You have a great radio face mate, not sure if TV audiences are ready for you.

RADIO MERSEYSIDE PLUG

2010-05-03T09:12:00.000-07:00

Just heard (short notice) that Kev is going to be interviewed on Radio Merseyside at 5.40 today (95.8 FM). Come on Kev!!!!

Carbo Loading for a long ride

2010-05-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

(Steve) Read club forum after Steve C talked of a long (100 mile +) ride out to The Trough and Scorton. So it was a huge plate of pasta and an earlyish night last night in prep for what was to come.
Got to the shop for 9am and was told that there had been a change of plan an ammended short ride instead.
Set off as a huge group, maybe 30 odd. But the pace was brisk, maybe because it was made up of A and B group members. The pace was soon moderated when Mick Freeman threw out a box of drawing pins and John D was the unfortunate one who punctured. This gave Mick a breather and chance to take on board fluids. One of the lads decided on a comfort break at the back of Rainford, an unfortunate choice of side road (Maggots Nook). Pace was picked up again through Billinge and then again on a long climb to Standish. Unfortunately, people were being shelled out of the back frequently. I left a gap on the Standish drag and wasn't able to close it. Then I took a wrong turning, but was called back on track by a bloke walking his dog. Unfortunately, it was all guess work as to where the main group had headed from there and I took the wrong route, so no chance of catching them. Picked up Keith at the back of Wrightington and rode back to the cafe with him. Walked in the cafe and there I found all groups = Race heads, Sportive group, social group and some others that had been swept up. Kev (who used to be my training partner and mate) managed to hang onto the main bunch until just before the cafe sprint. I sat down to enjoy my flapjack and tea as the lads all stood up and headed home!!!!! Planning a big ride for the morning (need to burn off some of these calories from my carbo loading session).

Rain rain go away......

2010-05-02T00:02:00.000-07:00

Lovely day yesterday in London, but couldn't get out so planned to go today but London is now flooded, like some sort of natural disaster, people have started to climb to the top of buildings to avoid the on rushing water. We (Lee, El, Ava and Eze) live on the second floor so we'll be ok, for now, unless the Thames barrier fails and the banks crumble, then we're all knackered and we'll have to swim for it. Still at least I won't get knocked off my bike today. Turbo trainer for me. Happy days.

Drugs Test for Cervello (Sir Bellion)

2010-04-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's club Chainey, DEFINITION a relatively short, but high intensity ride whereby riders hang on until they can hang on no more, was my (Steve) second one with H Middleton CC and I think it's 12 years since I last rode in one. But for Kev this was his first. So as the group of about 18 set off at a brisk pace, I positioned myself towards the rear, chewing a few wheels (drafting). The tempo increased and at one stage through Eccleston a speed camera when off displaying 25mph and a smiley face, should have been a grimace! I looked out to see where Kev was and couldn't spot him, so I assumed that he had turned off, with the pace being too keen for his liking. Then a moment later I caught a fleeting glimpse of a Cervello white top. He was tapping out a furious pace on the front!!!!! Was he feeling good? Did his order of EPO arrive through the post before the ride? Or was it a case of his being naive? Whichever it was, it was impressive stuff. His 'L' plates are certainly off and I have banned him from using the word novice from now on.
The pace picked up yet again after we arrowed through Croston Village and the through and off began. Great buzz, hammer down and maintaining a superb pace. Then it happened! Heading through Holmswood after Rufford the through and off began to take its toll and Kev's earlier exertions began to show. I had missed a few turns and was hanging on. But Kev shot out the back and despite my efforts to ride him back on towards Martin Mere, he had blown a gasket. We rode together for the last few miles and kept a reasonable pace up. Can't give the exact stats for the ride, as I never reset my Cateye until three miles or so into the ride. But it read something like 34miles covered and an average speed of 22. something mph. Our End to End Challenge begins 5 weeks today. At these kinds of average speeds we will be finished in a few days!! Unfortunately, not all of the UK is flat.
Hats off to Mr Bellion tonight, impressive stuff.

Big Bad Wasp!

2010-04-26T03:09:00.000-07:00

A small turn out Sunday for the Club ride, maybe the early rain put people off, the rain threatened again but didn't materialise.
A few of the A riders headed off towards the Trough to do 100 miler and a few big climbs.
The rest of us, about 15 I think,set off, got to the top of Ashurst and the group split, Steve Diesel who did a big ride on Saturday was complaining of saddle soreness, so decided her wanted a more leisurely ride, he went off with Simon, Helen, Paul and young Charlotte. Good luck to Helen and Simon who are doing the Fred Whitton Challenge in May (they must be mad! lol)
Steve and I(kev) and the rest of the group set off for a hilly ride towards Rivington via Haigh Hall etc. Eventually arrived in Blackrod turned around, no Steve, so waited for him with John from Scarisbrick (sorry John don't know your surname) waited about 5 min, still no sign so gave him a call. He had took a wrong turning and then had a puncture. John a I started to head for home, Steve said he would meet us in the Cafe.
The rest of the lads had disappeared so John and I hoped we would find our way back home from Blackrod without getting lost! Luckily we did.
We had a good descent down Hunters Hill until about half way down doing 28mph a very large wasp decided to fly inside my glasses!!! After nearly ***** my pants, I just threw my expensive Oakley`s to the floor and the big ****** flew off before he stung me in the eye.
Went back to retrieve my glasses hoping they would be still in one piece. Pretty robust those Oakley`s
Arrived at the Cafe to see the other lads getting stuck into tea and cakes. Steve was only a minute behind us. He did well to catch us up.

Next week, hopefully if we get enough riders it will be a big club ride 100 miler.
Checked my cateye when I got home, somewhere on the ride I had managed to do 41 mph.

Swift Flat Ride (very flat for 4)

2010-04-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

What a cracker, Lee fell off his bike. I (Steve) reckon that the driver was totally distracted by his iffy looking legs. (get them shaved mate). Hence he was clipped and went down. How's the bike Lee?
No seriously, I do hope you are okay.
We (Kev and I) went out with the clubs 'B' ride. There's nothing B about it at the moment as we were absolutely flying when we were not stopping for the four members, yes four, who punctured. It was a flat route with the intention of bumping up the average speed. That we did and I clocked pushing for 19mph average, then on the warm down to home it was about 18.3 average. We will get the end to end done in 7 days a that sort of pace. Unfortunately, our route is far from flat. It was great to get out without oversocks and lots of layers today, although leg warmers were kept on as the sun refused to come out. There were over 20 in the group and although we lost a few, I counted about 20 on the run home (see pic). Not a bad week with a few shorter rides logged too. Tuesday is the clubs first Chain Gang and more of the high intensity stuff. Looking forward to it already.
p.s. Lee, and Kev for that matter, get the legs sorted out. I don't want showing up come June 1st.
Pics show me, trying to look the part. Annette puncturing (background) and the group putting the hammer down yet again.

First proper sunny ride in shorts....surely I wouldn't fall off..

2010-04-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

How wrong was I (Lee). I was knocked off really , but I escaped with minor cuts and a bruised knee, at least it was the good knee and not the bad one, thank the Lord for small mercies...and for the car behind breaking in time to avoid my strewn body and bike......this is the first time I've had that feeling when you are falling from a bike with your feet locked into the pedals. Very scary. I was trying to sneak through the traffic on the inside because the cars were at a very slow, traffic jam style, pace. But as I was passing one particular car it got too close to the kerb and so bumped me slightly. My balance left me and I feel behind the car and in front of the oncoming one, which thankfully braked.
Anyway I got up and dusted myself down and did the....get back on the bike straight away thing......and did just shy of 50 miles. Hope you guys got out on such a lovely day. Happy days.

I'm back........

2010-04-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

So yes I disappeared for a few hours, or was it days? Anyway I'm (Lee) back from my ride to Brighton. When I say Brighton I actually mean East Grinstead because that was where I ended up after getting lost somewhere in Surrey. Still I'd clocked 35 miles by the time I had arrived and had a snack in a road side cafe that was like going back to 1979. I say 1979 because that was when the Conservatives last played on the failure of Labour to get into power. which was on my mind whilst I was sitting in the cafe....... Anyway I don't want to use this blog to complain about how the Conservatives back in '79 created a Britain of selfish individualists, but for reporting on my semi successful ride to sunny, yet windy East Grinstead. I set off at 11:30AM and made steady progress until I hit a mother of a hill in a little town called Black Rock (It wasn't called Black Rock but it should have been)...I turned a corner and hit the hill to find a boy, all of about 12 on a BMX starting the climb...so obviously I passed him on my speedy machine....the thing was he didn't take too kindly to such a move and by God he chased me up that mother of a hill and stayed on my tail for about a mile before we hit the real steep bit just at the top. Now I'd like say that I was never in danger of being caught but I was, and I had to dig deep to stay ahead of the whipper snapper to make sure I didn't have a Bad Day at Black Rock......really he was all of 12, on a BMX, and there was me looking the part with all my gear, but riding like a fat middle aged man....errr, yeah well...yes......anyway to cut a long ride short by the time I got home I'd clocked 70 miles. Not the 100 I hoped to achieve but not too bad........happy days.

London to Brighton?

2010-04-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

There is growing concern as to the whereabouts of Lee. He set off from home (London) early this morning with the intention of riding to Brighton and back. At the moment (9pm) nobody has heard from him or seen him. If there is no contact within the next three hours we will be sending out a search party.

Peloton of about 30

2010-04-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

Rest day on Saturday after Kev and I had got the 100+ ride in the day before. Knew the club run was going to be a challenging one from reading the forum. Outside the shop at 9am and about 30 riders opted for the 'B' ride out towards Rivington. A fair pace was set by Steve Charlton, so I wisely just sat in the pack. Quite an undulating route was taken to the foot of the climb and a good few conversations with the lads. Only rode alongside Kev for a few miles (so many out today). Felt great on the climb and with climbing miles in my legs, I'm starting to feel quite comfortable. It all split on the climb, I paused to take a pic and noticed that I had no signal on my phone. I was alongside the North West TV transmitters????? Fast descent into Belmont and then yet another climb (cheers Matty) with Horwich and the Reebok stadium on the other side. Got into a steady tempo and then one of the many John's got a puncture. Spring into action Bicycle Repairman! Group waited at the bottom. When we reached them there was this surreal scene, wish I had taken a pic. A bunch of about 25 H Middleton CC riders mixed in with a big gang of Mods on scooters!
The hammer went down again when we were all together, through Blackrod, Haigh, Standish and eventually to the cafe. The weather warmed up enough to expose the legs (not sure the cafe customers were ready for it, but I was). Chatted to Annette from the club, who did the end to end last year. So Kev and I bombarded her with questions, sorry Annette.
Great days riding and bagged another 60 miles +, making 250+ miles since last Wednesday. Great, I'm back in work tomorrow and I have P.E. pm. Might not get through the warm up!!

Dulwich Paragon Cycling Club (Lee)

2010-04-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

You boys are just too good, 50 milers one day, then the magical 100 miler.....leaves me feeling very nervous and so I think Steve you'll now be riding your old racer that I use for work and Kev, you'll be using a BMX come the ride in June. This I think will give us a level playing field which will mean I'll be able to keep up. Got out today with with the club. Gentle ride (average 16 MPH) for a couple of hours (3) with some nasty hills....obviously I was left behind again but I was better this week than last. I'm planning a big ride this Thursday, unfortunately on my own but I ned to get some miles in and see how I feel after a long, long ride. Hoping for Brighton and back but we'll see. My left leg is playing up having spent 40 years kicking a ball with that leg only. I'm receiving physio treatment at Crystal Palace Sports Centre with a fair amount of acupuncture so I hope it's doing some good. It was a lovely day today and I was over dressed for the ride so I may have to spend a few quid on some new summer kit even though I know we are due to get some soon, I can't keep riding in winter gear when the sun is cracking the flags. Well done both of you for that mammoth ride.......

Clocking the miles and dancing on the pedals

2010-04-10T04:18:00.000-07:00

Had a much improved midweek with regards the weather. This has meant that both Kev and I (Steve) have managed to get some decent rides in. We kept it quite local for midweek, but still did a few decent training rides. Fingers were crossed for Friday with regards to the weather (after a 50 miler on Thurs). Set off early and headed towards Preston, with the intention of getting to Chipping in good time. Unfortunately, after plotting a route and putting it into the Garmin, it began to play up around the Leyland area. It was giving us directions to head home from there?????? Really frustrating, as I had plotted a decent route through Preston town centre. I ended up ignoring the Sat Nav and opted for Steve nav. Managed to get to Longridge and after a few wrong turns (adding to our miles) found the climb of Longridge Fell. We flew up that, dancing on the pedals all the way up. I think this is an indication that both our fitness is getting somewhere near to what we are aiming for come June. Over the top of Longridge Fell and a great descent towards Chipping. Kev filled his face with jacket spud, refuelling for the 60 odd miles still to do. We had a busy route through to the Preston docks to navigate. Then it was onto Longton and Bretherton, where Kev came up trumps and took us on a brilliant route. Back up through Leyland, Eccleston, Mawdsley, Rufford etc.... But as we got to Cleaves Hills we still had about 12 miles to do to reach 100!!!! A few laps of this area, then out to Bickerstaffe, where we picked the pace up. Then heading back we hit the magical 100!!!! A good day = great weather, decent route, bodies held up well and not too sore/stiff today. Bodes well for the big push come June. Looking forward to the clubs ride out to Rivington tomorrow. The legs could even make a first appearance of the year if this weather continues.

Poem

2010-04-04T13:49:00.000-07:00

(I (Steve) now need to spend more time in the saddle and less writing daft poems)

Challenge of a lifetime, such a long journey to ride
Six months of preparation, will take its toll on our hides.

Three buddies from Aughton, with a lot to arrange
Eleven days of exertion, dressed in lycra will be strange.

In Cyclexpress jerseys, good publicity for Matt
With Steve B driving support, no delays from a flat.

Avoid Denis as mechanic, wheel put on the wrong way
Lee’s Cateye wasn’t working, zero miles covered each day.

Got to get the miles in, joining H Middleton CC
Pull in at the café, double flapjacks are for me.

While we are turning pedals, touring Lancashire Lanes
TV Producer Connolly is suffering, on hilly Kent plains.

December to January we were frozen out, interrupted by lots of ice
Occasional sunny spells right now, back to back rides would be nice.

A tribute to the lovely Carla, she’ll be forever in our hearts
We’ll raise money for the fund, target nine followed by many noughts.

Hope Lee doesn’t show up on my old Eddy Mercx
One odd bike in three, we’ll look like proper berks.

Two using Dolan Hercules, be calling on his muscles
Especially during the lumpy bits, in Corwalls hilly struggles.

You have to see Con and Kev on matching his and hers bikes
Mind, Kev’s looks so small, it may be made by ‘Little Tykes’.

Lee’s first outing on his bike, while riding in Richmond Park
He managed to break his chain, phoned Ell as it was getting dark.

Lee’s prep is on a turbo trainer, spinning in his flat
Daughter Ava is amused at this, she says he looks a pratt.

Mr Southerner is behind in miles, chance of catching are slim
So he’s offered to buy the Garmin Sat Nav, then we’ll have to stay with him.

In danger of some chaffing, so chamois cream to apply
It goes in all those places, unseen by human eyes.

Change from tights to bib shorts, then it’s time to shave your legs
We’re hoping that for poor Lee Con, it’s an improved vision of his pegs.

Setting off from Lands End first of June twenty ten
Hoping for a tailwind and some better weather by then.

Two days in the South West, with Dartmoor on day three
Followed by the Severn Bridge, from where Wales we can see.

Shropshire looks quite scenic, but there’s the Stiperstones to ascend
Makes Parbold hill look like a speed bump, the climb it never ends.

Day five is such a long one, 122miles to cover here
By the time we reach our houses we’ll have earned a Cockbeck beer.

Driver two takes over, leaving Denis to recover
There’s sure to be some fallouts, cos replacing him is Kev’s brother.

Next it’s off to Lakeland, those fells are oh so steep
But the biggest hazard of this leg is avoiding all the sheep.

We then fly across the border into chilly Jockoland
We’ll get bitten by lots of midges, but won’t get very tanned.

Further north to the coastline, we’re looking for a port
Ferry over to Arran, who’s circumnavigation is quite short.

Night over in Lochrenza, next morning on the boat
Then it’s back onto the mainland exploring Highland slopes.

Along the Caledonian canal, to the East of old Loch Ness
If we don’t watch where we’re going we’ll end up in a mess.

Eventually reaching the east coast, night over in a place called Tain
Can almost see the ending, our efforts weren’t in vain.

The final leg’s upon us, it’s when England play USA
But the World Cup’s banned in Scotland, ‘got no TV’ they will say.

Friday the 12th will be emotional, our thoughts to gather this time
Over a thousand miles covered, as we cross the finish line.

By Steve (bet Wordsworth would be quaking in his boots)

Missing club ride

2010-04-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

Had a mixed week with regard the weather. However, towards the end of the week managed to get out with Kev for a few rides. Thursday night was a tough route, taking in the hills of Ashurst Beacon and Shaily Brow. It was intended as a bit of preparation for me to tackle the clubs 7 Hills of West Lancs today.
Got out the next day with the intention of getting a longish ride in, but we got a good soaking and ended up heading back home after a few hours out.
So, made a decision to opt out (chickened out)of the club masochistic run today and am planning a few big mileage rides with Kev this week.
Got hold of a Garmin Sat Nav for the ride and it will take a bit of getting used to. Lee's handlebars will resemble something from Kennedy Space Centre during the end to end ride.
Great news from Kev, who had a meeting with Mr Jones of Halliwell Jones (see link to their site at the bottom of the page), who has very kindly offered to support us by providing a support car for the ride.

OMG I'm so unfit

2010-04-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

So both you boys will be pleased to know that I (Lee), despite hideous rain and wind, made my way this morning to the meeting point for Dulwich Paragon's Saturday morning ride. I got there to only find 3 other riders (these rides usually attract around 50 which gives you some idea how bad the weather was) and they looked like their minds were already made up...there's no way we are going out in that weather........however 3 other riders turned up and just as everyone was looking forward to saying let's not bother.....the clouds temporarily showed a bit of blue.....so we set off. Now what usually happens I'm told is that the group splits into 3 groups, fast, intermediate and steady...but because there were 7 riders only we stayed together.....and therefore an intermediate to fast pace was set.....OMG, how unfit am I. As soon as we hit the first climb I was left behind, really really easily....but they waited for me at the top (good bunch of lads). I kept up on the flats, was a little way behind on steady inclines and left for dead on any climb of note...but they always waited. This continued for the next two and a half hours....them waiting for me to catch up once they reached the top of a climb. Having said all that they did say that for my first time out with a group I'd done well to stay with them. It was a good feeling to be out with other riders and I now understand especially on flats how much easier it is....when I say easier I by no means mean easy, because the ride wasn't that for me. So to conclude I did 7 miles either side of the ride and the ride was about 35 (I forget to set my cateye) It was good fun, despite the weather and I'll be back next week to try and keep up, but it'll be a while before I fly up the hills the way they do. Happy days.

pacey ride

2010-03-28T12:23:00.001-07:00

The clocks went forward an hour and I (Steve) seemed to lose an hour on the group today!!! Totally hammered it from the shop to the start of the inclines around Haigh Hall area. Then the group split as the climbs really began. We went through Blackrod, Little Scotland and to the foot of Winter Hill. I hung back, slipped an energy gel from my pocket and straight down my mouth in anticipation of what testing climbs we were about to face. Then we swerved left and also whizzed past the Anglezarke sign. All that psychological build up and Steve Charlton decided to lead us from the foot of major climbs and head for the cafe via Coppul and Charnock Richard etc....
I hung onto the group as the pace quickened, but was feeling really dodgy. I paced Helen back onto the bunch, but was really struggling myself. About 4 miles from the cafe I started a coughing fit and threw up. (Blaming it on my sister’s salmon last night). It was lucky for me that I had decided to wear my overshoes, they saved me getting my new shoes covered in Wheatabix and carrots.
Managed to reach the cafe and sat outside as it was heaving with riders today. Strange thing was that I noticed nobody sat near me. Might have had something to do with the unusual pattern on my tights and the vile smell circulating from them! Still a decent ride and another 50 mile + ride in. Hope to get some decent training done this next few weeks, but won't be calling into our kids for a feed anytime soon! Thanks to Kev (who's flying at the moment) for hanging back for me.

Mountain Goats

2010-03-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

Today was a tough day in the saddle. We (Steve and Kev) headed out with the club following Pete's Garmin Sat Nav route. Took in Mawdsley, Eccleston, Coppul ect...and the top of Chorley (Botany Bay area). It was a tasty pace being set, so we jut sat in the pack until that point. I was aware of what was ahead (although I have not done it for a good while), so I stopped talking to preserve energy. Anglezarke is that big lump that sits in front of Winter Hill (see pic of Kev). Got to the foot of the climb and we started to split as a group as the gradient became steeper and steeper. I managed to get a good rhythm going and even managed to pass Kev on a steep part (who had messed up his gearing, that's what he says anyway!! LOL). He later got his own back by dropping me on the flat near the cafe. It was a great workout and all these tough miles will help our preparations for what is to come on the big ride.
It was a glorious day weatherwise, even though we encountered a headwind on the way back (don't remember a tailwind heading out).
Pete suffered a puncture on the way back, but other than that it was a superb ride.
Got to the cafe and H Middleton CC A and B rides met up to take over the place.
I'm off to stuff my face for a second time and replace what I certainly burnt today.
So next time you are driving and you look over and spot the TV transmitters, have a thought for our legs today. ps - that isn't a urine sample in Kev's water bottle!

It was him!!

2010-03-17T03:20:00.000-07:00

After a morning visit to my dentist for my check up, and a quick lunch, I (Kev) decided its time to start getting some more miles in on the bike, as our Lejog ride is fast approaching. Didn't want to waist such a lovely day.
I enjoyed the ride out with the Club on Sunday so I decided to take the same route. The only thing I didn`t like about it, was the Southport Coast Road, drivers think its clever to beep their horn when they get along side you!!! Not clever, it frightens the c**p out of you.
As I was riding down the Coast Road, coming towards me on the other side of the road, all decked out in Team Sky colours was Bradley Wiggins. For those of you who don`t know who Bradley Wiggins is, he is a British professional track and road bicycle racer, currently riding for Team Sky. He won three medals on the track at the Athens 2004 Summer Olympics, and two gold medals at the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics. He came fourth in the 2009 Tour de France.
Now that Spring has finally arrived, there is a lot more insect flying around, I think I swallowed about a couple of dozen. Need to start riding with my mouth shut. I suppose the extra protein will help! LOL
56 miles on Sunday, 52 miles yesterday, hopefully out again Thu/Fri and look forward to getting out with Steve and the Club on Sunday.

Sport Relief

2010-03-16T11:39:00.000-07:00

Lee mixes with the queen, Catherine Jenkins and too many to mention high profile faces as a part of his job. Thought I would try to hit back and add a shot of myself with James Graham (plays for St Helens) who worked with my class today as a part of Sports Relief. Unfortunately, this will mean nothing whatsoever to anyone outside St Helens or people who are not followers of Rugby League. James won Super Leagues Man of Steel, he's also an International player. But most importantly, he's an Evertonian. Top bloke!

Too many layers

2010-03-14T09:39:00.001-07:00

This morning was the first that I (Steve) have not headed out with a real nip in the air. In fact, I soon realised that I had too many layers on (honest Lee, I'm no longer fat!!!). A super turn out at the shop, about 30 odd riders. We split into A and B groups, with the B group having about 20 odd riders riding over the moss towards Southport on quite a windy day. Great to see Kev out with the club. It's only his second ride with the group and he really looked comfortable all day, even when the pace was stepped up (20 - 23 mph)on the coast road heading towards Banks.
Clocked about 35 miles at the cafe stop and an averae of 16.7, all good for our end to end challenge, which is creeping ever so close now.
Stuffed ourselves with cakes at the cafe, where the A group joined us.
Kev and I hung back and decided to do our own thing for a bit to get more miles in, ending up clocking 56 miles.
Called in at Steve B's (support driver and Kev's brother) place on the way back, who took a few staged shots of us riding past (sad I know).
The warmer weather is around the corner and that bodes well for stepping up the training in the next few weeks.

Route completed

2010-03-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

At last, I (Steve) have managed to complete the route plan. A total of 1051.6 miles and a trip over to the Isle of Arran thrown in too. (See route on left hand side of this page).
Had a day off the bike today as I promised Charlie that I would watch some of his rugby tournament, playing for the school. I didn't stay for the whole thing, which seemed to go on and on. But he ended up captaining his team to win the tournament and they will now go on to Twickenham to represent Lancashire (so he tells me). Well done Charlie, even though it was using the wrong shaped ball this time.
Hoping to get a decent ride in tomorrow with the club.

Gorgeous weather

2010-03-08T03:25:00.000-08:00

I (Kev) was chomping at the bit to get out on my bike this weekend, stunning early Spring sunshine. Had a busy day on Saturday so unfortunately was unable to continue with the training, Still, Sunday`s forecast was much the same as Saturday, so plan was for me to get out with the Club early Sunday Morning. Alarm woke me at 7.30 am, I woke feeling like s**t, really tired, aching limbs, sore head. Grrrrr
Eventually crawled out of bed about 9.00 looked out of the window, wow, what a gorgeous day. had a quick shower, then a decent breakfast, with 2 cups of strong coffee, which made me feel a little better.
Could`nt mope around the house any longer, thought stuff it, i`ll get the bike out and just see how far my legs would take me. I managed to do 61 miles! not particularly fast, but glad I pushed myself. As a result of my efforts yesterday, today I feel like I have been trampled on by a herd of Cows. Actually I did meet one on my ride. Made me think of a very rare fillet steak, home made chips and a pepper sauce!!!

Two glorious days of weather

2010-03-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

I (Steve) went out to Aintree racecourse to the first race of the new season, The Eddie Soens. Have been to it several times and with knowledge of previous experiences, took lots of layers. But found the warmest Soens that I can ever remember. Our Amelia joined me and really got into it all, even asking how she may get into racing. Two of the club lads were racing and did really well, finishing it the main group. Considering they were riding on the company of Sky riders, Olympic games medalists etc.... they did brilliantly.
Got back home around midday and decided on a swift 30 miler with a few hills thrown in. Hammered it and got my average speed up, so beginning to feel like I am making progress.
Today I have been out with the club and it was quite cold early on, even though oit was bright. Steve Charlton led us out and straight into Ashurst Beacon, followed by Apply Bridge, Chorley, Charnock Richard, onto Bretherton etc... through Croston and really stepped on the gas for a good ten miles before the cafe stop. Clocked 50 miles today, but the average speeds have shot up to 16.5mph, all good prep for the big ride, which is creeping ever closer. Was considering a longer ride with the A group, who headed for The Trough of Boland, but had to be back for the blues 4pm kick off. It was well worth it with a great performance rounding off a decent weekend. Hope to get out in the week for a few hours, as the light nights are creeping up. It's onto planning the route from day 7 onwards and then quickly booking accomodation, planning advertising, equipment, nutritional products logistics etc... There are not enough hours in a day at the moment. (Can you spot our Mill and I next to the British Cycling bus?)

Hurrah, the cavalry have arrived.......

2010-03-07T07:40:00.000-08:00

Well just the one cavalier actually, El's Mum has come down for two weeks to help us adjust to life with our little addition. Dot (El's Mum), El, Ava, Eze and myself (in that order as it happens) are all doing well....BUT with the arrival of Dot I can now get back to training for our little end2end trip, even though it is still on the Turbo Trainer. Can't go too far just yet and the roads around central London are so poor you really do need to ride out into the green belt to get a decent ride, that or Richmond Park again and even that is an hour away. So today and a couple of times earlier this week I've been on the CycleOps. 2 hours today, but no real idea how far or what speed but it feels like a decent ish pace and it really feels like it is doing me some good. It's better than doing nothing that's for sure. Still I feel like I'm miles away from where you guys are in terms of road miles and I guess I'll never truly catch up so I'll just have to do as much as I can. One thing about the Turbo Trainer though is that yes it's not like riding on the road at all BUT I reckon it's great for a little weight loss. Ava still thinks it's hilarious her daddy going nowhere fast in the kitchen on a bike that doesn't move...she just laughs at me.....I guess it's something I'll have to get used to and at least she is still too young to be embarrassed by me....that's still to come....and boy will I get my own back then. Happy Days. COYB.

Scene from Ben Hur

2010-02-28T13:18:00.000-08:00

(Steve and Kev)Drove down to Milton Keynes on Friday(posh Skem) to spend a weekend training with Olly and the MK Don's End to End riders. Also a good opportunity to catch up with Steff (Olly's wife) and the kids. Planned a decent ride on Saturday and headed off at about 9.30 with rain in the air and more forecast. Waited for the other MK lads to join us (James and John).
Set off towards the Brickhills and Woburn area. Quite tough first hour or so with rolling countryside and a few naughty climbs thrown in for good measure. Hit with some rain and more hills as we headed out towards the Chilterns. The MK lads are totally addicted to Marathons (sorry, Snickers), each of them had about three in the first few hours of riding!!!
It was quite strange riding with these MK lads (no offence if you read our blog boys), they are road riding novices and rarely rode as a group. James stayed in the big chainring and hammered up the hills and on the flat (although he paid for it later with sore knees). He was constantly a good 50 -100 metres ahead of us. John (who I christened Wobbly Bob, for reasons you will discover) has only been on the bike for 4 rides and did remarkably well to stay with us.
We passed some beautiful, picturesque 'Olde English' villages, which included George Harrisons stately home and Frank Bruno's pad.
We counted at least four pubs called The Five Bells, But decided on The White Horse to water and feed us. One of the other MK lads called Dave managed to catch up and join us here. So six set off towards Ivinghoe Beacon (Anglo Saxon) and the heavens really opened as we started the climb. Found the climb quite easy, but passing over the top for a few miles through the trees it happened!
The MK lads have been sponsored by Trek UK, who have supplied training bikes. Unfortunately these are fitted with the cheapest mudguards and as John aka Wobbly Bob was getting a mouthful of mud and rainwater from Olly's back wheel, he decided to suddenly slow down and move offline. I (Steve) saw him coming and used my shoulder to push him away from me. Unfortunately, he kept coming and jammed his hub into my front spokes. Bang, two snapped, I had a big wobble, but managed to keep upright, despite a buckled wheel. (It was like that charoit scene in Ben Hur).
We were a good 40 miles from MK and stuck. Dave called his South African buddy with a van who came out and picked him and my bike up. Cheers Donald. Dave passed his bike to me to finish the ride, which was good of him. Unfortnately, it was way too big and I have ended up with an aching neck, not to mention a tender rump with a foreign saddle.
Headed off the Chilterns and Olly's iffy navigation skills got us spotting M25 motorway signs!!!!!
Still, we found an interesting route back and after several more challenging climbs and who knows how many more Snickers bars for the MK lads, reached home (Monkston MK) with 77 miles clocked.
A shame we didn't get back to back rides in.
It's a trip to get my wheel sorted at Middleton's before next weekend and hopefully another decent two days of riding.
Thanks to Steff and Darren for their wonderful hospitality. That Spag Bol didn't touch the sides last night Steff and sorry about eating all the Nan bread on Friday.
Congratulations to Lee and Ell with their new addition to the family. Keep on spinning mate and get some road miles in as and when the baby allows.

housebound, but in a good way

2010-02-28T12:03:00.000-08:00

The Big Eze is settling in, El and I are now remembering what it was like to have a small child to look after. We're more relaxed than last time but it's still exhausting, more so for El of course....but we are very pleased to have the boy Eze with us, he's simply spectacular. BUT to cycling matters and last night I managed to put the CycleOps Turbo Trainer together. The instructions to build are terrible and if you let yourself get bogged down by the complex language you'd never manage it so I decided to throw the instructions away, metephorically, and just look at the bits and put it together. This was by far the best option. It took me little more than 1 hour to assemble but I waited until today to give it a go. So Eze was asleep, El was asleep and the Cup Final was about to start, so I stuck the telly on and got on the bike. 50 minutes later it's half time and I'd kept a good pace going throughout. The trainer is quiet and sturdy but without the great outdoors cooling you down you sweat buckets. Had a rest at half time and then got back on for the second half. Another 50 minutes at a good pace (well I never left the kitchen obviously but I was pedaling hard) at this point Ava came home with friends who subsequenty thought the site of her dad in lycra pedaling a bike that doesn't go anywhere the most ridiculous and therefore funniest thing she'd ever seen. Granted she's only 4 and will no doubt see many funnier things in her life, but today it was me. Laugh? Yeah she laughed, and laughed, and laughed. Still I have to say, even taking into coonsidertion the ridicule, the CycleOps is a success and it means I can try and catch the northern alliance up at least in terms of conditioning if not actual miles on the road. Hope you enjoyed Olly's, Kev and Steve, and Olly if you are reading, hope all is well and see you soon I hope. Happy days.

The Big Eze

2010-02-26T06:23:00.000-08:00

So the little fella has arrived, well not so little at 8lbs 6oz. This picture shows Eze at a few hours old. We are all fine. It does mean I won't make the weekend meet at Olly's but hope you all understand. I'll be setting up my CycleOps Turbo Trainer instead. Happy days.

Best day so far this Winter

2010-02-25T03:16:00.000-08:00

(Kev) I never managed to get out on the bike last weekend, busy day Saturday, looking forward to a Sunday ride with Steve and the Club, alarm woke me at 7am, opened the curtains, yes more cold, wet, white stuff. I think we are all pi**ed with this long Winter we are having.

I had a free day yesterday, the weather forecast wasn`t to bad so decided to get out for a nice long ride. Felt good so I decided to try and better my previous record of 52 miles. Ended up doing 62 miles, with no ill effects today.

Found, by accident I might add, some really nice quite country roads,taking in Eccleston, Bretherton, leyland, Hutton on to Preston and then back again.

It was the best day so far, weather wise. Even the sun popped its head out from time to time. Although the Easterly wind was a challenge at times.

Steve and I are off down to Milton Keynes this weekend to meet up with Olly (MK Dons) and hopefully Lee, for a training weekend. (weather Permitting!!!)

Energy crisis in South London

2010-02-22T07:06:00.000-08:00

El took pity on me this Sunday, saying to get out on the bike and not to worry about being too far away in case the baby decided to arrive. For those not in the know, El is due to give birth, well was due to give birth last Wednesday but as yet, no sign of the little fella making an appearance. So off I went as usual heading for Richmond Park, the cycling mecca of green belt London. The thing was, which has been happening a lot, my legs felt like lead again and I couldn't really get going. I only did 35 miles but it felt like 70. I could put it down to over work, stress, lack of sleep, whatever, but that's just not the case. Who knows, but I struggled and by the time I was heading back to a more affable but less green part of London, i.e. our home, I was knackered. I reckon I need to do smaller rides more often instead of trying to go out and do loads of miles irrespective of how my body/head is feeling and so I've decided to buy a turbo trainer. This is because over the next 6 weeks it will be hard for me to get out at all but I can't let the northern alliance get too far ahead. Not sure which one to buy but I'm already formulating a plan to be able to watch the football, ride, and rock the baby to aleep all at the same time. Yeah right, like that's going to happen.

Snow Joke!!

2010-02-21T03:22:00.000-08:00

Sat here (Steve) and can't believe that I seem to be jinxed with weather. Up at 7am to prepare for a good long training ride with the lads. Pulled open the curtains and there's a blanket of snow covering everything!!!!!!!!!!
Olly called at about 9am and said it's snowing heavily in Milton Keynes (hope it clears for our training camp down there next weekend)and he's prevented from getting out too. Then I get an email on my Blackberry (get me, all high tech, a Burberry as our Janette called it), and it's Lee, on his way out for a few hours riding. Ell is about to go into labour and he's still getting out before us.
Last week he was worried that Kev and I were training far more than him and was frightened that we were leaving him behind. In an effort to ensure we don't leave him at Lands End, he's offered to buy the Garmin sat nav. That way we will have to keep him with us. Unless there's a mighty thaw this afternoon, it's back to the turbo trainer for me.
Still, it will give me time to carry on plotting our route (which I will put a hyperlink to from here, once it's all completed).

Mixed bag of Weather at Half Term

2010-02-19T06:42:00.000-08:00

Steve's week so far
It's been quite a frustrating week in terms of planned training rides. Planned to get out with a few lads from the club on a decent ride on Tuesday so got up early. Opened the curtains and watched hail and sleet fall, messing up those plans.
Wednesday was a very mixed day of frost, fog, then rain and a bit of sun creeping out too. Managed to get a swift 24 miles in with a few climbs thrown in for good measure.
Thursday was a case of grabbing a window between the showers and Kev joined me too. Did a few hours and got 36 miles in, before the heavens really opened.
Today is stuck in catching up on school planning and preparation for Monday.
A silly early Sky Kick off will mess up any chances of a longer ride tomorrow, which leaves a Sunday club run. Here's hoping for decent weather Sunday morning.

Advice

2010-02-15T14:56:00.000-08:00

Kev and I met up with Mick freeman tonight (who's done the end to end). I have met Mick via H Middleton CC and was out on Sunday's club ride with him. Mick has given us lots of invaluable advice and information for our ride. We now feel that we can proceed with making detailed plans re route (most importantly), accomodation, kit, does and donts. He has also loaned us a few great books, spreadsheets etc..... Mick is a true gentleman, an absolute star and we shall thank him with beer when we get an opportunity.
Now we can really get going now.

Blow Out!!!!!

2010-02-14T10:06:00.000-08:00

Blow out

(Kev's Post) Got up early this morning, braved the fog and ice, met Steve and headed down into Ormskirk to meet up with H Middleton C C for my first time out with the Club. Really enjoyed the ride, met some really nice people and got some great advice about our LeJog ride, (many thanks to Mick Freeman) also got my first 50 + miler in.
Not long into the ride I heard a loud bang in front of me, I thought someone had been shot!! One of the lads had a blow out, he had to call his wife for a lift back home. That’s what you get when you don’t spend Valentines Day with your loved One!!!
Ill be definitely getting out with the Club again soon.

Kev Makes Debut on Club Run

2010-02-14T07:31:00.000-08:00

(Steve here) Wonderful to get Kev out with the H Middleton CC today and another varied and interesting route. The Garmin Sat Nav went a bit mad on a few occasions and we ended up doing a U turn, but it was worth it (I would never have found the route we did without GPS). Out to Ashurt Beacon, Dalton, Apply Bridge, Shevington, Standish, then off towards Winter Hill direction, Chorley, Eccleston, Mawdsley and the cafe in Rufford. Probably missed lots of places, but clocked another 50 mile +. When we hit the 50 mark Kev gave our old 'MASSIVE' shout (he got there for his first). Great thing about today was all the great and varied people in the group. Met Mick Freeman (who I was beginning to think didn't exist)at last (who's an End 2 End rider) and will meet up with him this week to pick his brains a bit more and then Kev and I will set our route. Accomodation etc.... will follow. I felt great today, despite waking up at 4.30am with a painful shoulder blade and had to soak in a hot bath an hour before the ride. Legs felt like they could do another 10 miles +. With a week off school ahead I'm already planning training rides and hopefully a few longer back to back rides.

DONATIONS

2010-02-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

To Donate to THE CARLA MAGUIRE PALLIATIVE CARE UNIT Just click on the Donate button below

FOG

2010-02-10T03:55:00.000-08:00

Steve and I (Kev) had a nice early start Saturday Morning (6th) so we could get back for the Derby. Great result, sorry Steve! We did a quick 27 miles, with Hunters Hill thrown in for good measure, I think Steve got us both lost, searching for Hunters Hill, he has an excuse though, thick *og (sorry about the F in Fog!!)

Didn't want to get up too early Sunday, Steve was going out with Matty`s Club they were on the road for 9am. I did a solo 46 miles, wanted to get my first 50 miler into the legs, but a really bad back put paid to that, I was in that much pain I couldn't even manage another 4 miles. Going to have to change the way I ride I think! Must get advise.

I must get out with the Club more often, Its pretty boring riding on you own, no one to push you and no slip stream to hide in when your knackered lol

Heavily dependent on Calories

2010-02-09T10:44:00.000-08:00

Well Lee, this cycling asks lots of questions and puts many strains on the body. Proper eating is essential and frequent refuelling during the longer rides should include energy bars (or malt loaf, Jelly Babies a banana etc...), two water bottles (bidons to continue your French theme) and then there's the importance of carrying cash for a cafe stop. If you want advice of which cakes to select then call me, after all I am our rides 'fat' cyclist. Just ask your dad, who has taken on the role of being my dietitian in our preparations!

Take the other Saturday, Kev had a total hunger knock after about 1.5 hours of riding. I had to give him my energy bar, which he immediately shoved whole, into his mouth. Looking back I got an image of a rabid dog, with bits of power bar sticking out on either side. Twenty minutes later he was ordering up a selection of sugar hit deserts in the cafe.

Was disappointed to find that you had told your TV buddies (Davina, Fern and David Walliams to name but a few) about good bikes for their Sports Relief end to end challenge. At least you only put them onto my Winter training machine!

Are we sure we are doing the right thing?

2010-02-09T09:57:00.000-08:00

So I (Lee) went out again this weekend on my lonesome. Yes Billy no mates, but I did run into some guys from Dulwhich Paragon and so I'm going to take the plunge this Saturday and meet up with the 60 or so riders for my first group outing.....baby dependent of course.

This weekend I made the mistake of thinking I would go a long way from home therefore making sure that the return journey would build up the miles. So I headed out of London and into Kent, through lots of little villages, past a bloke with I shot JR on his T shirt before finally coming to rest at a little cafe called Rendevous.....surely I haven't crossed the channel and therefore in France but no I was still in Kent on a wet Sunday. 1/2 hour later I'm making my way back when I realise perhaps I should have taken something to eat. 3 hours into the ride and I'm a goner. I can hardly peddle. Idiot or what, even after I've been told the importance of fuel all I've had is a little snack bar and some water. The last few miles were torture, so lesson learned for next week when I'm out with the proper cyclists.

Weather has allowed back to back ride weekend up North

2010-02-07T06:34:00.000-08:00

Afraid I opted for (not demoted to, may I add) the B riders route today. Went out with a totally different bunch of lads from H Middleton CC than on the Chipping run the other week. Great bunch of lads again today and a superb route (Thanks for leading it Mike and Steve Diesel). Was a bit lumpy and tough in parts and managed to step the average speed up a bit (despite the climbs). It's amazing how many riders I saw out today, several clubs and lots of small groups. Weather was a bit chilly and patches of fog at the start of the ride, but it warmed up and cleared. There were several very interesting bikes parked outside the cafe today, collectors items, some sort of vintage bike club. Either that or the service was so slow that they had been waiting there for over 100 years! Will post the old bike pics on once I have taken them off my phone. Pleased to clock 50.6 miles (note the 0.6 Lee) and a most enjoyable ride.
Went out with Kev for a swift 25 yesterday, 'pea souper' and so bad in places that I took a few wrong turnings due to the poor visibility (that's my excuse anyway). I actually had my first spill climbing Hunters Hill (it was not as a result of exhastion, although I was zig zagging a bit), hit a patch of ice and my front wheel went for pies. Managed to get my feet out and save my bike getting scuffed, but laddered my tights. Now I know how frustrating it must be for women. We stepped on it coming bak so we could get back for the Derby. Don't know why we bothered!!!! Once Fellaini was kicked off the park we lost our control of midfield and never really got going again. I reckon the Fat Spanish Waiter will keep his job, which is good news for us blues. Long may Rafa reign!

Saturday 30th January but not 31st

2010-01-31T10:21:00.000-08:00

Got out with Kev on a beautiful day and decided on a nice flat route. Headed off and within 2 miles Kev had a flat. Call for Bicycle Repair Man!!!! I got my hands dirty and after a 10min pit stop we were off again, chased by a stray dog. Lost the dog and headed out towards Woodvale Airfield and left onto the Southport Coast road with a slight headwind. Put the hammer down for about 8 miles of coastal route. It's amazing how much we anger drivers, who beep horns, shout abuse etc...... It must be a nightmare having to steer half a metre to overtake a bike. They all seem very brave, protected by a metal box. It's always interesting when we catch up as the lights go against them. Kev had a hunger attack at the back of Tarelton and I provided an energy bar to refuel him for a while. Clocked a 44 mile ride and the average speed is creeping up.

I fully intended getting out with the H Middleton CC lads today (Sunday), but the sudden, heavy downpour of snow put paid to those plans.

It's a week of work in the gym to try and compensate for todays no ride.

Have planned a training weekend in sunny Milton Keynes on 27th and 28th Feb with our mate Darren Oldroyd. We will join up with his end 2 end riders from MK Dons and head off to the Brick Hills and the Chilterns. Lee is also planning to escape the smog of London and join us for a ride and photo opportunity. Should be a good weekend.

Living on the Moon

2010-01-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

After Steve and Lee`s great efforts at the weekend, thought I`d get out on the bike on my own today. Managed to do 35 miles, tried to get my average speed up, but the wind today was a pain, really felt the headwind today.

Just like thank the other solo rider who stopped to see if I needed assistance, had a flat, luckily it wasn't a puncture. The nice gent was from Skelmersdale, we had a chat about the state of the roads after the snow and ice, pot holes all over the place. Didn`t get his name. Wished me luck with The End to End Ride and then he was on his way.

St Andrews

2010-01-28T08:23:00.000-08:00

I managed to escape the rat race last weekend and spent a bit of time in Scotland. I was invited up to stay with my Friends Phil Cochran and his lovely Girlfriend Joanna Sutherland.

On the Friday Phil and I jumped on a couple of mountain bikes, left Tayport and headed for St. Andrews, not too far, only 20 miles round trip but really nice ride all the same.
We went via Leuchars, which has a RAF Base, Tornadoes taking off, deafening!
Had a ride around the 18th green at St Andrews, very posh. Then we had a nice lunch in the town and then headed back home.
On the Saturday evening Joanna put on fantastic spread to celebrate Burns Night

Then Sunday, the 3 of us went Clay Pigeon Shooting. Great fun.

2 Baths still doesn't ease the legs

2010-01-24T11:33:00.000-08:00

STEVE'S RIDE, SUNDAY 24TH JANUARY

Was without my training buddy today, Kev's popped up to chilly Jockoland for a bit of r and r. So I decided to get out with Matty and the Middletons CC. What a stupid idea that was! I knew they were planning on a big ride out to Chipping, but still went for it. Big group (30+ riders)outside the shop at 9am. Set off at a good pace (18-20 mph) all the way to Preston. Those that didn't fancy it turned off and headed back to the Rufford cafe. I had a mad moment, probably becuase Matty asked me, and headed off with 20 odd towards Chipping, taking in Longridge Fell and Jeffrey Hill on route to the cafe. I was dropped, but Matt (cheers mate) hung back to show me the way. Could barely climb the stairs in the cafe and had white floaters in front of my eyes, I was totally gone!!!!! Grabbed a gel sachet and an energy bar before the food and tea came. It was running through my head how I was going to get back from The Trough of Boland by myself (that is once I was dropped outside the cafe). Make it to Preston and jump a train (lad told me they don't run on a Sunday!!!!), call Banner and get a taxi, call our Janette (no way she would find Tarleton, never mind Preston). But I managed to stay sat in the bunch all the way until Rufford. Trundled back home alone in heavy rain. In fact it rained all ride and I still kept my cape in my spare bottle. This was Matty's A riders, many competative and younger than me. They are a good bunch of fellas and I had several useful conversations (when I had enough energy) with riders about the end to end ride, some good advice. I think it will be a case of finding his B group for a few weeks now though as I'm still light headed now. Thinking of trying a third soak in the bath now, as I can barely stand up. Great effort by Lee today, keep it up mate. Don't want to sound like 'one up manship', it's never about that, but 4hrs 43mins, 74 miles clocked today. Oh and I managed to get out and turn in 20 miles in yesterday's fog before I went to the match. 94 miles in a weekend, the miles are mounting up. Not back from the 'fat cyclist'. (Pics Jeffrey Hill and Longridge Fell) I'm off for bath 3 and then bed.

The only way to get used to riding a long way is to ride a long way......

2010-01-24T06:52:00.000-08:00

Lee's ride down south Sunday 24th January.

As my old fella said last week....35 miles isn't enough.......so I've been out this morning for a 50 miler, which has frankly done me in. My legs are like lead weights and my shoulders feel like I'm giving our kid a piggy back....but 50 miles nevertheless. (well 48) Had some problems with gears today, don't know why, they just wouldn't respond...need to have a look. Other than that all good down south. Apart from me and El still not agreeing on the name of the one yet to arrive.......

Oh what a lovely day, apart from the hangover

2010-01-17T12:25:00.000-08:00

Never go for a ride with a hangover...not sure who said that but they are rght.

So I got out this morning with Mr Peter Ratcliffe, a friend of mine from the deep south. We actually went out for dinner last night with El and Lotte (Pete's partner) and probably had too much to drink, well we did, well I did...and I paid for it. I'd like to think that the reason Pete had to keep waiting for me was because I was tired from last weeks work load but in reality work can't really be blamed considering I mostly sit on my arse..........and it was my legs not capable of pedaling rather than my arse. Anyway about 35 miles done with a hangover, not good enough, I know this. My dad has even just called me to say the same thing....like thanks dad.....so I need to do better, go further, ride longer........and stop drinking the night before.

Out at Last!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

The thaw happened and we (Kev and Steve) got out for a while today. A really tough ride with slight crosswinds on the way out. Think it was tough because of the inactivity regarding riding during the big freeze. Got another 40 mile in (actually 40.02) and thought that we were doing okay until I got home and looked up a club we were in the cafe stop with (West Pennine). These blokes had ridden out from Rochdale, while Kev and I were spitting distance from home. If the weather holds up it's going to have to be more miles next week, a bigger ride with some decent climbs too. Will have to up the average speeds too, don't think Team Sky will be looking over their shoulders at the moment.
Wonder if the Opera Impresario got out for a ride today? Taking it that London has experienced a thaw too.
A week on the treadmill for me (feeling like a hamster in its wheel) and Kev should get out for some runs if the weather stays decent.

Its grim up North!

2010-01-10T08:43:00.000-08:00

Well done Lee, its so frustrating not being able to get the bike out. Its been a week now since I managed to get out on it.
Regarless of the weather, Im going to get out running again tomorrow.

Competition from the Southern Softy (maybe not so soft)

2010-01-10T08:14:00.000-08:00

Fair play Lee. Great effort today!

I will stop emailling my training spreadsheet to you, it's making you as paraniod as when my Australian girlfriend was stalking you.

It's still far too bad to get out on the roads here. London gritters must work longer hours than up here (mind you, your council tax bill is higher).

Kev's climbing the walls, itching to get some training in and I have been spinning endlessly on the turbo trainer, without getting anywhere far. I'm beginning to feel like a hamster in a wheel. Plus the neighbours will start to complain soon with the noise the fan is creating. I should think about connecting the flywheel up to some sort of generator, I could power up the whole cul de sac. I'm off to spin some more now that I have found out that you are catching up.

Hurry up and thaw!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Steve

it's so cold.....

2010-01-10T07:14:00.000-08:00

.....but I still managed to get out thismorning, although had to take a rucksack with me with dry clothes just in case I fell into a frozen ditch, or more likely, into the Thames. Went up and down and then up and down again the big hill at Crystal Palace. Peope looked at me as if to say 'Hey soft lad, what you doing out in this weather?' To which my look said 'two blokes 300 miles from here are probably out and so I have to'.......

2010-01-10T03:17:00.000-08:00

The Queen promised Lee if he popped round with his sponsor form she would sponsor him for a penny a mile.

Sometimes my job is great. I didn't get to mention the ride.

2010-01-08T05:29:00.001-08:00

Weather won't stop me!!!!!

2010-01-05T06:49:00.001-08:00

I'm afraid that this cold snap is affecting our preparations. It is eating into our training program. it looks like the turbo trainer this week and the gym if I can get there. (Steve)