Wednesday, 9 May 2012
Saturday, 5 May 2012
Bank Holiday - bring it on!
Spent a very busy day at work trying to get things ship shape before next week. I have one day left to work on Tuesday but at a different office so there were plenty of well wishers during the day. It's getting close now and I am starting to feel pre match nerves and a lot of pressure.
There are some genuine people in this life and I am lucky enough to know a few of them. Ray is inspirational along with chaps like Phil and Tracey; my wife is lush and Spence is a hardworking best buddy; Nobby is Special Forces and Simon Smith gets things sorted. Simon has suffered sciatica and has generally felt cut in half by his bad back but still feels like he is letting me down by not being able to do a day in the saddle on 14th May between Chepstow and Shrewsbury. We have talked plenty of bollocks about endurance sport; Simon is on the same wavelength as me and has provided valuable support over the last 8 months. He has now stepped up to the plate again by sorting a brand new compact camera for the ride - something I did not have but now do. Thank you Simon; I hope to be able to repay you by sorting out the thing you call your fence?
The last spin session on Wednesday was fun but circuits on the Thursday has left me sore. I have minimal exercise planned between now and Friday morning; as a consequence of reducing my training and general indolence I have gained a few kilos over the last month. When all my gear is packed I will get on the scales with the bike and kit for pictures and to check the starting weight. Hopefully, I have enough of an energy contingency when things get tough but I do expect to lean up a bit. One thing is certain, I will have to work hard at my top end fitness when I get back - oddly enough, I am looking forward to this.
Sam has worked tirelessly and without complaint over the past few days to sort out my crap; train from Thurso to Inverness sorted; hotel in Thurso, sorted; lift from John O'Groats to Thurso by the Dounreay boys, sorted; flight to Brum from Inverness, sorted. She and Ben will be updating FB whilst I am away and generally acting as base camp with Harriet winding them up a treat. I've not been away from home for more than a few days before in 20 years, I'm going to miss them and can't wait to see them at Birmingham airport. I hope I don't let them down, or let down any of the poeple who have supported and indulged me since deciding to take this on.
Today (Saturday) has been spent going through a checklist of jobs that need doing and I'm nearly there - even down to cutting the now lush grass. The bike is looking wicked with the slick tyres and pannier rack in place. I should notice a difference in weights as I have ditched the cable shears and spare cables plus Spence has lent me his much lighter lock. The bottle cage on the underside of the down tube has now been modified to carry the meths fuel bottle and I have double checked all the torque values of important components. The only other thing to buy is a decent pair of shorts for 'evening wear'; Sam thought that taking my swimming shorts and wearing my bike shoes would lead to an early court appearance followed by chemical sterilisation....
The Blue Peter Totaliser has now reached £2,600 and I'm wondering if £3k is possible before I leave? You can but hope and keep pressing the keys in Twitter and FB.
A famous local author launching his book at Challow Cricket Club once said, 'some men deal with middle age by buying a sports car and base ball cap, not me, I decided to be a writer so please indulge me and buy my book!'. I've got a baseball cap but have no interest in cars however I quite like cycling, please indulge me and click the Just Giving link below!
Question: What the flippin eck am I going to do when this is finished?
.
There are some genuine people in this life and I am lucky enough to know a few of them. Ray is inspirational along with chaps like Phil and Tracey; my wife is lush and Spence is a hardworking best buddy; Nobby is Special Forces and Simon Smith gets things sorted. Simon has suffered sciatica and has generally felt cut in half by his bad back but still feels like he is letting me down by not being able to do a day in the saddle on 14th May between Chepstow and Shrewsbury. We have talked plenty of bollocks about endurance sport; Simon is on the same wavelength as me and has provided valuable support over the last 8 months. He has now stepped up to the plate again by sorting a brand new compact camera for the ride - something I did not have but now do. Thank you Simon; I hope to be able to repay you by sorting out the thing you call your fence?
The last spin session on Wednesday was fun but circuits on the Thursday has left me sore. I have minimal exercise planned between now and Friday morning; as a consequence of reducing my training and general indolence I have gained a few kilos over the last month. When all my gear is packed I will get on the scales with the bike and kit for pictures and to check the starting weight. Hopefully, I have enough of an energy contingency when things get tough but I do expect to lean up a bit. One thing is certain, I will have to work hard at my top end fitness when I get back - oddly enough, I am looking forward to this.
Sam has worked tirelessly and without complaint over the past few days to sort out my crap; train from Thurso to Inverness sorted; hotel in Thurso, sorted; lift from John O'Groats to Thurso by the Dounreay boys, sorted; flight to Brum from Inverness, sorted. She and Ben will be updating FB whilst I am away and generally acting as base camp with Harriet winding them up a treat. I've not been away from home for more than a few days before in 20 years, I'm going to miss them and can't wait to see them at Birmingham airport. I hope I don't let them down, or let down any of the poeple who have supported and indulged me since deciding to take this on.
Today (Saturday) has been spent going through a checklist of jobs that need doing and I'm nearly there - even down to cutting the now lush grass. The bike is looking wicked with the slick tyres and pannier rack in place. I should notice a difference in weights as I have ditched the cable shears and spare cables plus Spence has lent me his much lighter lock. The bottle cage on the underside of the down tube has now been modified to carry the meths fuel bottle and I have double checked all the torque values of important components. The only other thing to buy is a decent pair of shorts for 'evening wear'; Sam thought that taking my swimming shorts and wearing my bike shoes would lead to an early court appearance followed by chemical sterilisation....
The Blue Peter Totaliser has now reached £2,600 and I'm wondering if £3k is possible before I leave? You can but hope and keep pressing the keys in Twitter and FB.
A famous local author launching his book at Challow Cricket Club once said, 'some men deal with middle age by buying a sports car and base ball cap, not me, I decided to be a writer so please indulge me and buy my book!'. I've got a baseball cap but have no interest in cars however I quite like cycling, please indulge me and click the Just Giving link below!
Question: What the flippin eck am I going to do when this is finished?
.
Monday, 30 April 2012
Technology and the over 40's...
In the 80's Judith Hann promised that cars would drive themselves and robots would do the housework - I am still waiting for this to happen. What she did not tell me was that I would be able to tweet via SMS which would then post the tweet to FB for me. I understand robots and cars better than Twitter.
Job seems to be done, tweets appearing in FB, a convenient if limited way to communicate whilst I am away.
Waiting on Sam's negotiations with colleagues about being collected from JOG's and taken to Thurso when I finish. Plans have changed slightly in that I am finiding my own way home (too expensive to get everyone up there) via train to Inverness then flight to Birmingham. I can't book/plan anything further tonight until I know what can and can't be done.
Job seems to be done, tweets appearing in FB, a convenient if limited way to communicate whilst I am away.
Waiting on Sam's negotiations with colleagues about being collected from JOG's and taken to Thurso when I finish. Plans have changed slightly in that I am finiding my own way home (too expensive to get everyone up there) via train to Inverness then flight to Birmingham. I can't book/plan anything further tonight until I know what can and can't be done.
Saturday, 28 April 2012
Less training, more admin.
I haven't lifted a finger since finishing Monday's 'All Day Spin' at the TFD gym in Grove (another £86 in the pot) - and it's been quite nice. We have now smashed through the £2k mark; current total is £2,042.
I spent 11.5 hours on the saddle and met a load of people - some I hadn't seen since leaving school. The staff at the gym were awesome supplying tea like it was going out of fashion. I can't thank them enough. Me old mate Ray popped in and lent his support like he always does - thanks Ray. Sam and the kids also turned up for a couple of hours which was great, really helped the time pass.
I had amassage yesterday which has destroyed my calves and ITB's and demanded the use of the sauna afterwards. Today has been ok as I have made a point of doing a bit of walking around town etc. Another massage on Tuesday which should be less painful.
In terms of training, I am planning a couple of spin sessions, circuits on Thursday and several sessions in the gym before leaving on 10th May. Nothing too heavy duty and no more long rides; it's more important to rest now and get some decent fuel in a few days before I leave.
Kit-wise I have had a good day - the tent has been re-proofed along with all my panniers. My new (well, 2nd hand) cycling shoes have arrived and I have transferred the cleats over. Wet wipes and toe protectors all procured. Tomorrow will focus on setting up my bike for the trip with a final clean and degrease planned just before I go.
I still have no idea if I have prepared adequately but we will find out.
A final though, the Expedition 30 crew from the ISS touched down safely on the steppes of Kazakhstan on Friday. There recovery from the capsule was in true soviet no nonsence style (they were hauled out and chucked into couches that were then manhandled,couch and all, into a medical tent). They had been on the ISS for 5.5 months and I wondered how they felt as they began their trip home and finally felt the fresh terrestrial air again. Probably 'thank goodness that's done - good to be back - what's next'. I wonder what will be next when I finish my ride.
Sunday, 22 April 2012
Fund Raising Spin in Wantage
Smashing day yesterday spent sat on a turbo trainer outside Ledbury's in Wantage. Ray Collins asked me to join his cake stall raising money for local Wantage charities plus Sobel House and Breast Cancer - would have been daft to pass it up! Please have a look at what Ray is doing - he is a philanthropic lesson to us all; a real role model.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000349081377
Plenty of people spent time chatting and finding out what was happening; I was surprised at the number of people I knew; and surprised at their generosity. £113 in the bucket for just sitting down for 7 hours...can't complain at that.
The total is now over £1,800 and I am wondering if we could reach the £2k mark after tomorrow's spin at TFD in Grove.
The only other thing of note was that I ruined my cycling shoes in the tumble dryer - don't try this at home it's an expensive mistake to make!
http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000349081377
Plenty of people spent time chatting and finding out what was happening; I was surprised at the number of people I knew; and surprised at their generosity. £113 in the bucket for just sitting down for 7 hours...can't complain at that.
The total is now over £1,800 and I am wondering if we could reach the £2k mark after tomorrow's spin at TFD in Grove.
The only other thing of note was that I ruined my cycling shoes in the tumble dryer - don't try this at home it's an expensive mistake to make!
Thanks to Spence for helping me set up so early (7.15am). I can't speak at this time of the morning....
Friday, 13 April 2012
Back to life, back to reality...
Really rubbish two weeks after catching another chest infection. This one was worse and I did not feel like lifting a finger let alone riding. Work was particularly busy with year end and I haven't really had time to rest properly. The only positive is that I got it now and not during the ride.
I started feeling better during last week so have focused on some of the administration tasks that needed doing. Most of the accomodation is sorted (cheapest £3.50 but the owner was a lovely person) and I have collected my train tickets for Cornwall. This sort of thing takes a surprising amount of time but it has to be accurate and transposed into a check list I can use. I have also written to 10 or so local companies basically asking for sponsorship - not holding out much hope though.
I kick started my cycling career again with 2 commutes in this week. I haven't lost any power just a bit of lung function on the climbs; yesterday's circuits class was hard but then I haven't done that particular class for 3 weeks (stiff as a board now). I suspect that we will do a ride at some point this weekend; now the weather is better it's much easier to get motivated.
I bought a couple of pairs of bib shorts today as my old shorts are worn out. People have consistently told me that these are better than shorts as the pad is kept in the right place by the braces. I tried them on thinking that, at last, I will finanly get to look like a cyclist....I just looked like a 40 year old in sports gear that was slightly too small. Form a queue 45 year old ladeez.
Still trying to organise a turbo trainer for the two spin events later this month...still hopeful.
.
I started feeling better during last week so have focused on some of the administration tasks that needed doing. Most of the accomodation is sorted (cheapest £3.50 but the owner was a lovely person) and I have collected my train tickets for Cornwall. This sort of thing takes a surprising amount of time but it has to be accurate and transposed into a check list I can use. I have also written to 10 or so local companies basically asking for sponsorship - not holding out much hope though.
I kick started my cycling career again with 2 commutes in this week. I haven't lost any power just a bit of lung function on the climbs; yesterday's circuits class was hard but then I haven't done that particular class for 3 weeks (stiff as a board now). I suspect that we will do a ride at some point this weekend; now the weather is better it's much easier to get motivated.
I bought a couple of pairs of bib shorts today as my old shorts are worn out. People have consistently told me that these are better than shorts as the pad is kept in the right place by the braces. I tried them on thinking that, at last, I will finanly get to look like a cyclist....I just looked like a 40 year old in sports gear that was slightly too small. Form a queue 45 year old ladeez.
Still trying to organise a turbo trainer for the two spin events later this month...still hopeful.
.
Sunday, 1 April 2012
Resting (again)
Following the all day spin last Monday, I felt great and took a spin class on Wednesday; performed well despite a developing cold.
The cold has taken hold now and I am on the bench coughing up green stuff. I haven't trainined at all since Wednesday but it has given me a chance to catch up on things at home and the ride admin. I've swapped back to my hybrid tyres now as I need to save the slicks for the ride. I only put them on to test them with kit and also keep the noise down on the turbo trainer in the gym's reception.
I have had an offer to set up next to a cake stall in Wantage on 21st April - that could see a bit of cash coming in but I do not want to detract from the chap raising money for his charity. Even if it just stimulates some interest it would be worth doing. Then there is the spin at TFD gym in Grove which may have to be moved to another date. More things to organise....
The weather is looking good and I think my cold is on the wain...spring is definitely coming.
.
The cold has taken hold now and I am on the bench coughing up green stuff. I haven't trainined at all since Wednesday but it has given me a chance to catch up on things at home and the ride admin. I've swapped back to my hybrid tyres now as I need to save the slicks for the ride. I only put them on to test them with kit and also keep the noise down on the turbo trainer in the gym's reception.
I have had an offer to set up next to a cake stall in Wantage on 21st April - that could see a bit of cash coming in but I do not want to detract from the chap raising money for his charity. Even if it just stimulates some interest it would be worth doing. Then there is the spin at TFD gym in Grove which may have to be moved to another date. More things to organise....
The weather is looking good and I think my cold is on the wain...spring is definitely coming.
.
Funds seem to be picking up.
Last weekend was busy organising things for the all day spin at Unipart; I finally got clear of work by 4pm on the Sunday having scratched around all day to get my gear together. We had a very sedate ride in the morning as I was carrying full kit but although it was a short one (about 30 miles) I had nothing to complain about at the end.
The bucket steadily attracted cash with some people chucking £20 in. One of the gym instructors and a colleague took the bucket around the building and I still have collection tins in the restaurant. The total for the day was £250 which was fantasitic. Current total at £1,370 and rising. Thanks to the Lean Machine staff at Unipart for hosting the day.
Felt absolutely fine afterwards except the expected saddle soreness. I suspect that the effects of this will not be so severe with new shorts as my old ones are very worn. Tried the Chamois cream too and this helped a bit.
.
I was ready to go at 7.55 on Monday Morning and basically kept going until 6pm stopping only for several toilet breaks and 10 minutes for an ice cream. I ate food on the hop and people were very kind when it came to getting coffees etc. I'm not sure how much of an effect the advertising around the building had achieved but there were always people dropping in and out.
The bucket steadily attracted cash with some people chucking £20 in. One of the gym instructors and a colleague took the bucket around the building and I still have collection tins in the restaurant. The total for the day was £250 which was fantasitic. Current total at £1,370 and rising. Thanks to the Lean Machine staff at Unipart for hosting the day.
Felt absolutely fine afterwards except the expected saddle soreness. I suspect that the effects of this will not be so severe with new shorts as my old ones are very worn. Tried the Chamois cream too and this helped a bit.
.
Sunday, 25 March 2012
Kit shakedown....
This weekend was about 2 things: set up for the All Day Spin at work on Monday and also finesse my packing list and do a test pack. Both appear to have worked out ok and I am looking forward to tomorrow's fundraiser. I'm still not sure about re-positioning the computer on the back wheel so I can get an idea of the 'mileage' covered tomorrow, it would be interesting to know but might be more hastle than it's worth.
My kit weighs in at 19kg which matches back to the theoretical packing list weight. It includes a few more tools that become essential if a spoke goes (the cassette might have to come off depending which side the spoke breaks on). It packs well with some spare space for food bought and eaten during the day. I've even included my backpacking kettle which may sound excessive but it does boil water a whole lot faster than a pan with a dodgy frying pan lid. Brews boost morale and get the job done!
This morning's ride was hilly around the White Horse at Uffington, I had my slick tyres on and a fully loaded bike. Knees and all the other bits seem ok and we did push on a bit - if I was touring I would take it a bit slower. Everything seems to be going nicely at the moment.....
Spence and me on top of White Horse Hill - smart choice today: winter gloves and jacket....
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My kit weighs in at 19kg which matches back to the theoretical packing list weight. It includes a few more tools that become essential if a spoke goes (the cassette might have to come off depending which side the spoke breaks on). It packs well with some spare space for food bought and eaten during the day. I've even included my backpacking kettle which may sound excessive but it does boil water a whole lot faster than a pan with a dodgy frying pan lid. Brews boost morale and get the job done!
This morning's ride was hilly around the White Horse at Uffington, I had my slick tyres on and a fully loaded bike. Knees and all the other bits seem ok and we did push on a bit - if I was touring I would take it a bit slower. Everything seems to be going nicely at the moment.....
Spence and me on top of White Horse Hill - smart choice today: winter gloves and jacket....
.
Thursday, 22 March 2012
Confidence is rising....
A good couple of rides at the weekend with Spence and also a couple of chaps from the village - one of whom completed LEJOG two years ago. It's good to have an experienced ear to sound out issues with; generally, I think I am getting most of the stuff right in terms of training and kit.
Training has been busy this week, mainly spin based with circuits today plus a session in the gym on Monday. My goal is to maintain fitness and strength without getting injured between now and 11th May….I believe I am ready to do this ride now.
I was invited to present my project at a business club meeting this morning at Unipart, something that I do not do well but, given the subject matter it was a lot easier than I thought it would be. The audience was warm and engaging asking plenty of questions. We exchanged cards and #tags etc; hopefully a good opportunity to raise some more sponsorship.
The rest of this week will be spent preparing for the All Day Spin at Unipart on Monday. I still need to get hold of the turbo trainer but apart from that - all sorted. My bike will need a good clean before then though.
Training has been busy this week, mainly spin based with circuits today plus a session in the gym on Monday. My goal is to maintain fitness and strength without getting injured between now and 11th May….I believe I am ready to do this ride now.
I was invited to present my project at a business club meeting this morning at Unipart, something that I do not do well but, given the subject matter it was a lot easier than I thought it would be. The audience was warm and engaging asking plenty of questions. We exchanged cards and #tags etc; hopefully a good opportunity to raise some more sponsorship.
The rest of this week will be spent preparing for the All Day Spin at Unipart on Monday. I still need to get hold of the turbo trainer but apart from that - all sorted. My bike will need a good clean before then though.
Thursday, 15 March 2012
Progress!
I have come to a decision about the final route, I'm not changing it and will just have to put up with the steep climb to Shap at the end of a an 80 mile day. It might take longer and I might have a 101 mile day to cover following that but I have little choice given the number of days I have chosen to do the challenge in and a reasonable distribution of daily mileages. It will just make this section harder but then the last few days are fairly easy in terms of mileage. I think I will just have to suck it up and see - if I real can't carry on to Shap then I'll just have to doss somewhere.
I would like to stay in Kendall at a recomended B & B (the owners are bike nuts and 'sort you out' when you arrive). There is 18 miles between Kendall and Shap with an hours climbing at the end of it. I can't help that, the hill will be there the following morning so I will have to do it at some point. Once I have climbed to Shap and done the following 101 miles things should get easier for the next couple of days. The other positive is that by Day 6, I should be settling into the tour by then.
Training has been getting back to normal and my knee is feeling good. Last Sunday I decided to cycle to Oxford, through the town centre and up the Woodstock Road and then on to Woodstock. Coffee and cake came to a whopping £5.35 in a crappy cafe with indignent types reading the Times. I annoyed them all by sweating heavily - the weather was awesome. Back to Summertown to watch Ben playing football at Cuttslowe Park and then home via the A34. The point about this trip was that I went at a slowish pace (above tour pace though) which put very little stress on my legs. I finished it in great shape and not really that hungry. It was relaxed and enjoyable; I tried not to think of reaching the end of the ride and I kept the computer on time referring to the mileage only occassionally.
CDC have sent through all of their fund raising material along with a large banner for my spin events - all systems go now. I've even got some old fashioned collection tins (made of plastic of course).
Finally, I could have trained at the gym this evening and I could cycle tomorrow but I am resting; I have trained everyday for the last 6 days. I will go to the gym tomorrow evening and start a-fresh, I just don't want to upset my knee. I'm ready to start the challenge now; more training just risks injury and I will not get that much stronger and fitter. The clock is well and truly running; train tickets now booked from Reading to Truro and the bike has a reservation too.
.
I would like to stay in Kendall at a recomended B & B (the owners are bike nuts and 'sort you out' when you arrive). There is 18 miles between Kendall and Shap with an hours climbing at the end of it. I can't help that, the hill will be there the following morning so I will have to do it at some point. Once I have climbed to Shap and done the following 101 miles things should get easier for the next couple of days. The other positive is that by Day 6, I should be settling into the tour by then.
Training has been getting back to normal and my knee is feeling good. Last Sunday I decided to cycle to Oxford, through the town centre and up the Woodstock Road and then on to Woodstock. Coffee and cake came to a whopping £5.35 in a crappy cafe with indignent types reading the Times. I annoyed them all by sweating heavily - the weather was awesome. Back to Summertown to watch Ben playing football at Cuttslowe Park and then home via the A34. The point about this trip was that I went at a slowish pace (above tour pace though) which put very little stress on my legs. I finished it in great shape and not really that hungry. It was relaxed and enjoyable; I tried not to think of reaching the end of the ride and I kept the computer on time referring to the mileage only occassionally.
CDC have sent through all of their fund raising material along with a large banner for my spin events - all systems go now. I've even got some old fashioned collection tins (made of plastic of course).
Finally, I could have trained at the gym this evening and I could cycle tomorrow but I am resting; I have trained everyday for the last 6 days. I will go to the gym tomorrow evening and start a-fresh, I just don't want to upset my knee. I'm ready to start the challenge now; more training just risks injury and I will not get that much stronger and fitter. The clock is well and truly running; train tickets now booked from Reading to Truro and the bike has a reservation too.
.
Wednesday, 7 March 2012
Easy Start to the week
Still got an achy knee but much better following the enforced rest. Cycled Tuesday, spin today and circuits tomorrow. See what it's like and try to cycle on Friday.
Must book the plane and train tickets soon.
Must book the plane and train tickets soon.
Thursday, 1 March 2012
Things at a low ebb
Today should have been a top day for training and LEJOG planning but it's turned out a little different. My knee is sore and I have decided to lay off anything that will aggrevate it over the weekend. I was supposed to be circuit training at lunch time and cycling to work but I binned that too.
Good meeting with Phil Tynan this evening in the Royal Oak, Wantage. Phil did LEJOG last year in 9 days and has left me in no doubt as to how much of a challenge this is; not just physically but also mentally. I am strong in the mental department (or is it that I am just mental?) but I am having doubts about how comfortable the ride will be for my knee. It doesn't really matter how much it hurts, the ride will get done. When I can't put up with the discomfort any more there are drugs but they are addictive and make you feel a bit squiffy - I'm not keen on taking them like smarties.
If I had to do this ride now (assuming normal knee conditions) I could do it. My backside would be wrecked and so would my legs but I would make it because I am bike fit; I'm strong and used to exercise. I have the right attitude and I have planned in contingencies should things go wrong. I have a number of supportive family and friends who are my back up albeit remotely. I know about good nutrition and hydration. It's all good.
But I am feeling a lack of confidence and have a non committal mood, I need to get back on the bike and prove that my knee is still good. The doctor said that discomfort and inflamation do not mean lasting damage but that is no comfort when it hurts. Cricket at Challow has ruined me over the 30 years I have been playing there, I know a lot of bowlers who have packed up because of the pounding their knees have taken on the concrete hard clay at Challow.
As a result of our meeting, I will be adjusting my over night stops to make sure the big climbs are met with fresh legs. More admin; I love it....
Good meeting with Phil Tynan this evening in the Royal Oak, Wantage. Phil did LEJOG last year in 9 days and has left me in no doubt as to how much of a challenge this is; not just physically but also mentally. I am strong in the mental department (or is it that I am just mental?) but I am having doubts about how comfortable the ride will be for my knee. It doesn't really matter how much it hurts, the ride will get done. When I can't put up with the discomfort any more there are drugs but they are addictive and make you feel a bit squiffy - I'm not keen on taking them like smarties.
If I had to do this ride now (assuming normal knee conditions) I could do it. My backside would be wrecked and so would my legs but I would make it because I am bike fit; I'm strong and used to exercise. I have the right attitude and I have planned in contingencies should things go wrong. I have a number of supportive family and friends who are my back up albeit remotely. I know about good nutrition and hydration. It's all good.
But I am feeling a lack of confidence and have a non committal mood, I need to get back on the bike and prove that my knee is still good. The doctor said that discomfort and inflamation do not mean lasting damage but that is no comfort when it hurts. Cricket at Challow has ruined me over the 30 years I have been playing there, I know a lot of bowlers who have packed up because of the pounding their knees have taken on the concrete hard clay at Challow.
As a result of our meeting, I will be adjusting my over night stops to make sure the big climbs are met with fresh legs. More admin; I love it....
Monday, 27 February 2012
All Day Spin and other stuff...
The All Day Spin at Unipart will take place on 26th March, I have just asked an old school friend if he would mind lending me his turbo trainer (again) for this as it will be tricky to get a spin bike down the stairs in the gym's reception.
Work have agreed that I can put flyers up and generally circulate the event as much as I want. I have also asked a couple of Unipart friends if they will circulate to their contacts - should get the word about nicely.
The second All Day Spin will be on 26th April at TFD gym in Grove. This time I will use a spin bike but put my own saddle on it. The gym are due to get a newsletter out to their members early in March with this advertised; I'm hopeful that people will start to recognise who I am and I can then talk the ride up a bit more.
I got a half decent ride in on Saturday: 20 flat miles and then spent the next 17 miles going up and down Chain Hill (3 times)followed by a flat ride home. I had planned four climbs but my knee started to feel a bit odd - no pain just a bit warm. I could have ground through it but it's not worth getting injured for at this stage. I commuted in today and did spin at lunchtime, my knee was ok, it just warmed up a bit - rather odd so I iced it when I got home.
I seem to be very fatigued; struggling to keep my eyes open. I'm cycling in tomorrow but will have a rest from classes, might do the gym in the evening will see how I feel. At the moment I just want to have some decent food and get some kip.
I have a low mood at the moment, things seem to be dragging and not getting organised. I know it only takes one or two people to get back to me and all gets sorted but it's frustrating. One thing I have to do is enquire about booking my bike onto the train to Cornwall, given my previous experiance of talking to train 'customer service lines' I am not looking forward to it....
Work have agreed that I can put flyers up and generally circulate the event as much as I want. I have also asked a couple of Unipart friends if they will circulate to their contacts - should get the word about nicely.
The second All Day Spin will be on 26th April at TFD gym in Grove. This time I will use a spin bike but put my own saddle on it. The gym are due to get a newsletter out to their members early in March with this advertised; I'm hopeful that people will start to recognise who I am and I can then talk the ride up a bit more.
I got a half decent ride in on Saturday: 20 flat miles and then spent the next 17 miles going up and down Chain Hill (3 times)followed by a flat ride home. I had planned four climbs but my knee started to feel a bit odd - no pain just a bit warm. I could have ground through it but it's not worth getting injured for at this stage. I commuted in today and did spin at lunchtime, my knee was ok, it just warmed up a bit - rather odd so I iced it when I got home.
I seem to be very fatigued; struggling to keep my eyes open. I'm cycling in tomorrow but will have a rest from classes, might do the gym in the evening will see how I feel. At the moment I just want to have some decent food and get some kip.
I have a low mood at the moment, things seem to be dragging and not getting organised. I know it only takes one or two people to get back to me and all gets sorted but it's frustrating. One thing I have to do is enquire about booking my bike onto the train to Cornwall, given my previous experiance of talking to train 'customer service lines' I am not looking forward to it....
Wednesday, 22 February 2012
Spring is almost Sprung!
Spring is definitely trying to make an appearance which makes riding to work so much more pleasant. I still need lights but it's not dark leaving in the morning or getting home at night. Big tail wind this morning so it will be interesting on the way home.
I did a weight training class yesterday which has left things a bit sore this morning. I am getting stronger mainly down to the work I have been doing at TFD gym in Grove - I can squat more weight on the bar and get lower in the squat. Although I don't really enjoy this type of exercise it is a key link in the fitness chain. I have spin at lunchtime and am looking forward to getting back in the saddle again; meetings have meant I have missed my favourite Monday lunchtime spin for the last two occasions.
Spence's new road bike looks awesome; I have yet to have a go but definitely getting gear envy. He's working on his hill climbing and I suspect will soon be able to leave me behind on Chain Hill. The point here is that as he becomes stronger and fitter he will be faster than me which means I have to work harder - good stuff all round.
Whilst I know a reasonable amount about mountain bike maintenance I haven't a clue when it comes to road bikes - they look like delicate satellite technology compared to my bike.
I have started to organise the all-day spin at Unipart on 26th March, just waiting for a few people to get back to me about publicity etc. Still need to organise a turbo trainer; guess I'll just have to bite the bullet and ask!
I did a weight training class yesterday which has left things a bit sore this morning. I am getting stronger mainly down to the work I have been doing at TFD gym in Grove - I can squat more weight on the bar and get lower in the squat. Although I don't really enjoy this type of exercise it is a key link in the fitness chain. I have spin at lunchtime and am looking forward to getting back in the saddle again; meetings have meant I have missed my favourite Monday lunchtime spin for the last two occasions.
Spence's new road bike looks awesome; I have yet to have a go but definitely getting gear envy. He's working on his hill climbing and I suspect will soon be able to leave me behind on Chain Hill. The point here is that as he becomes stronger and fitter he will be faster than me which means I have to work harder - good stuff all round.
Whilst I know a reasonable amount about mountain bike maintenance I haven't a clue when it comes to road bikes - they look like delicate satellite technology compared to my bike.
I have started to organise the all-day spin at Unipart on 26th March, just waiting for a few people to get back to me about publicity etc. Still need to organise a turbo trainer; guess I'll just have to bite the bullet and ask!
Monday, 20 February 2012
CTC Champions Sportive - Swindon
Another busy weekend but managed to squeeze in a 48 mile sportive near Swindon with Spence and Nobby. It was billed as hilly but wasn't really that hilly. There was one very steep hill but it was short, the rest of the ride was flattish and very enjoyable; pork pie and cake stop was awesome! The only casualty of the day was Nobby's bike, the bottom bracket seized leaving metal shavings visible - it looked an expensive repair but then the bike was still under warranty.
On Saturday morning, I posed for pictures on King Alfred's statue in Wantage Market place to promote a friends fund raiser for the town in July. Several people made a point of chatting to me about my ride in May so it seems that word has got around. I am due to appear in the local gym's newsletter in March, this should reach a good number of people who probably see me in the gym but haven't made the connection yet.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/events/109520829167552/
I have managed to set up a meeting with another mate who cycled LEJOG last year to talk about the hilly bits. Once I know where these areas are I can tweak the daily mileages and then scope out camps sites/Youth Hostels accordingly.
Another milestone passed today, I have finally booked the 11 days of leave that will be required to do the ride and spend a couple of days at the end with my family - suppose I had better do it now instead of just talking about it!
On Saturday morning, I posed for pictures on King Alfred's statue in Wantage Market place to promote a friends fund raiser for the town in July. Several people made a point of chatting to me about my ride in May so it seems that word has got around. I am due to appear in the local gym's newsletter in March, this should reach a good number of people who probably see me in the gym but haven't made the connection yet.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/events/109520829167552/
I have managed to set up a meeting with another mate who cycled LEJOG last year to talk about the hilly bits. Once I know where these areas are I can tweak the daily mileages and then scope out camps sites/Youth Hostels accordingly.
Another milestone passed today, I have finally booked the 11 days of leave that will be required to do the ride and spend a couple of days at the end with my family - suppose I had better do it now instead of just talking about it!
Wednesday, 15 February 2012
Hills and more hills
Hills are good for training and for seeing a long way away; hills provide a mental challenge as well as a physical one and require concentration to master them. This Sunday I hope that we will be up to some of the steepest hills in Wiltshire and complete the CTC ride with some remaining dignity (and the memories of some nice views).
I've done a quick pre-clean and lube prior to the main clean up and lube on Saturday after my commute of Friday. Although it is dry outside the bike still acts like a shit magnet; the chain is wearing quickly and the only thing that will slow this process is regular de-greasing and re-lubing. I'm trying out Muk-Off's C3 ceramic lube, yet to ride with it but it seems...erm, slippery. The chain has to last until mid April when I will replace it and the cassette in time for May's ride.
My training mind set is to seek out the steepest hills and hardest rides, I have control over where and when I ride during training but this will not be the case in May. I have to take the terrain as it comes and I might get a nasty hill right at the end of the day. No good missing hills in training because I feel tired, let's face it, if feeling tired was a reason to sit down no one would ever exercise past the 10 minute mark.
Last Saturday's ride was no exception, I admit that I was ready to stop when I got back to Hanney; it was cold and even with the cake and tea at Steve's house the tank was empty. I followed my own rules and ploughed on to achieve Chain Hill and, to be fair, it wasn't as bad as I though it was going to be after 50 miles of riding.
I suppose my badly made point here is that mental weakness in training will equal mental weakness on the day. Mindset can be trained in the same way that muscles can. I'll have enough to worry about on the ride itself so trying to make hills second nature now can only be a positive thing.
Roll on the weekend and the CTC ride at Swindon - apparently the hills are.....interesting!
I've done a quick pre-clean and lube prior to the main clean up and lube on Saturday after my commute of Friday. Although it is dry outside the bike still acts like a shit magnet; the chain is wearing quickly and the only thing that will slow this process is regular de-greasing and re-lubing. I'm trying out Muk-Off's C3 ceramic lube, yet to ride with it but it seems...erm, slippery. The chain has to last until mid April when I will replace it and the cassette in time for May's ride.
My training mind set is to seek out the steepest hills and hardest rides, I have control over where and when I ride during training but this will not be the case in May. I have to take the terrain as it comes and I might get a nasty hill right at the end of the day. No good missing hills in training because I feel tired, let's face it, if feeling tired was a reason to sit down no one would ever exercise past the 10 minute mark.
Last Saturday's ride was no exception, I admit that I was ready to stop when I got back to Hanney; it was cold and even with the cake and tea at Steve's house the tank was empty. I followed my own rules and ploughed on to achieve Chain Hill and, to be fair, it wasn't as bad as I though it was going to be after 50 miles of riding.
I suppose my badly made point here is that mental weakness in training will equal mental weakness on the day. Mindset can be trained in the same way that muscles can. I'll have enough to worry about on the ride itself so trying to make hills second nature now can only be a positive thing.
Roll on the weekend and the CTC ride at Swindon - apparently the hills are.....interesting!
Saturday, 11 February 2012
Good ride today.
Left home at 8:15 this morning with the temperature at -9, I was worried about icy surfaces but the roads were fine. There were some dodgy patches but we walked through these. I met Spence at Drayton and we cycled on to meet Simon at the Radley Roundabout - being a bit late meant he had frozen solid but we soon got going.
It was bitterly cold, I soon felt the wind chill in my left thumb, it had been broken by a cricket ball over 10 years ago and always suffers when it gets cold. My feet began to get cold too but, as the sun rose higher things became more comfortable. I think we all felt the cold for the first hour.
We did the usual loops between Abingdon and Oxford dropping Simon back at Kennington and then stopping for tea and cake at Steve's place in Drayton. I cycled back to Hanney, then to Wantage with a quick 'up and down' Chain Hill (well, a quick down...) for good measure. I was pleased with the 60 miles given how cold it was. In truth, the morning was stunning with bright sunshine and snowy fields - well worth getting up for.
My chain is just about at end of life but I will leave it and the cassette on as long as I can. I want to start in May with a new chain and cassette that has had a few miles to wear in - aproximately £55 but very necessary.
.
It was bitterly cold, I soon felt the wind chill in my left thumb, it had been broken by a cricket ball over 10 years ago and always suffers when it gets cold. My feet began to get cold too but, as the sun rose higher things became more comfortable. I think we all felt the cold for the first hour.
We did the usual loops between Abingdon and Oxford dropping Simon back at Kennington and then stopping for tea and cake at Steve's place in Drayton. I cycled back to Hanney, then to Wantage with a quick 'up and down' Chain Hill (well, a quick down...) for good measure. I was pleased with the 60 miles given how cold it was. In truth, the morning was stunning with bright sunshine and snowy fields - well worth getting up for.
My chain is just about at end of life but I will leave it and the cassette on as long as I can. I want to start in May with a new chain and cassette that has had a few miles to wear in - aproximately £55 but very necessary.
.
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Still cold.
Good couple of days, spent yesterday evening in the gym despite the tail end of this chesty cough and a decent headache. It was a relief to put away some codeine and go to bed.
Working in the centre of Oxford today so cycled in, bit rusty but not too bad. I am looking forward to cycling again on Friday, once again meetings and stuff have dictated the use of the car. My knee feels great.
All good!
.
Working in the centre of Oxford today so cycled in, bit rusty but not too bad. I am looking forward to cycling again on Friday, once again meetings and stuff have dictated the use of the car. My knee feels great.
All good!
.
Saturday, 4 February 2012
Training all wrong..
This week has been a busy one with plenty of training at the start, followed by a cold followed by a bit more training today at the gym. Good luck to anyone that managed a ride this afternoon given the temperature and impending snow.
Monday was maybe a mistake: I cycled to work, did spin at lunchtime, cycled home and then went to the gym. Managed a weight training class on Tuesday but was weak as a sparrows fist bump having not done this class for a while. Another solid spin session on Wednesday but struggled with a chesty cold. Felt sorry for myself on Thursday, worked a whole day (yes a whole day) with out training on Friday and then spent a couple of hours at TFD this afternoon.
www.tfd-grove.co.uk/
The stepper was hard work, still have the vestiges of a cold. I decided to split the rest of the time between legs and arms and forget the core/warmdown/stretch. Legs are not bad in terms of strength but then I would be disappointed if they were rubbish given the amount of cycling and circuit training I do. I managed a round of leg pressing, dumb bell squats and deadlifts whilst an 18 stone beef cake walked around the machines checking his baseball cap that was on backwards, filling his water bottle and adjusting his wrist straps. I moved onto arms and he deadlifted 6 tons twice followed by a lot of looking in the mirror.
Now arms are an issue, I make Mr Bean look like Mr Guns. I have come to the decision with Matt at TFD that a few chin ups and dips would be in order to strengthen the top half up - hopefully this will delay fatigue and stiffness setting in at the neck/shoulders. After doing this, I switched to the bicep bar until I genuinely could not lift it anymore (sets of 5). Mr Beef Cake had progressed through his programme to the point where he was cracking walnuts with his arse cheeks and then checking his baseball cap was correctly oriented in a backwards facing direction. He did one more deadlift and then drank a milkshake; the sauna beckoned.
I did notice in the mirror (hey, I was in the free weight area) that I favour my good knee which puts uneven pressure on my lower back. Not much I can do about this except lift lighter weight but that would be pointless - I just have to think before I lift to avoid any issues.
All in all, not a bad week but I have missed a long ride. Spence popped in and we decided to enter the CTC ride from Swindon on 18th Feb - 75km and hilly, good Devon and Cornwall preparation. Hopefully Nobby can join us so we can lower the tone with our Mountain Bikes...
www.ctcchallengerides.co.uk/CTC2012_Swindon_Champions_Family_Sportive.php
Happy days!
.
Monday was maybe a mistake: I cycled to work, did spin at lunchtime, cycled home and then went to the gym. Managed a weight training class on Tuesday but was weak as a sparrows fist bump having not done this class for a while. Another solid spin session on Wednesday but struggled with a chesty cold. Felt sorry for myself on Thursday, worked a whole day (yes a whole day) with out training on Friday and then spent a couple of hours at TFD this afternoon.
www.tfd-grove.co.uk/
The stepper was hard work, still have the vestiges of a cold. I decided to split the rest of the time between legs and arms and forget the core/warmdown/stretch. Legs are not bad in terms of strength but then I would be disappointed if they were rubbish given the amount of cycling and circuit training I do. I managed a round of leg pressing, dumb bell squats and deadlifts whilst an 18 stone beef cake walked around the machines checking his baseball cap that was on backwards, filling his water bottle and adjusting his wrist straps. I moved onto arms and he deadlifted 6 tons twice followed by a lot of looking in the mirror.
Now arms are an issue, I make Mr Bean look like Mr Guns. I have come to the decision with Matt at TFD that a few chin ups and dips would be in order to strengthen the top half up - hopefully this will delay fatigue and stiffness setting in at the neck/shoulders. After doing this, I switched to the bicep bar until I genuinely could not lift it anymore (sets of 5). Mr Beef Cake had progressed through his programme to the point where he was cracking walnuts with his arse cheeks and then checking his baseball cap was correctly oriented in a backwards facing direction. He did one more deadlift and then drank a milkshake; the sauna beckoned.
I did notice in the mirror (hey, I was in the free weight area) that I favour my good knee which puts uneven pressure on my lower back. Not much I can do about this except lift lighter weight but that would be pointless - I just have to think before I lift to avoid any issues.
All in all, not a bad week but I have missed a long ride. Spence popped in and we decided to enter the CTC ride from Swindon on 18th Feb - 75km and hilly, good Devon and Cornwall preparation. Hopefully Nobby can join us so we can lower the tone with our Mountain Bikes...
www.ctcchallengerides.co.uk/CTC2012_Swindon_Champions_Family_Sportive.php
Happy days!
.
Sunday, 29 January 2012
Maintenance.......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Just finished prepping for tomorrow's commute after a satisfying ride yesterday. I always remember being told to 'clean your bike, it's a disgrace' when I was a kid and I hated it. In fact, I only wanted to do skids really. However, there is a wisdom in making sure you can see your reflection in the cassette and the be able to read the decals on the frame. I get through chains at a rate of about 2-3 a year depending on how much off road riding I do. At £25 a pop this is not cheap so I make sure my chain is always clean along with the rest of the drive-train. I am convinced that if I didn't bother the chains wouldn't last as long plus there is the degraded performance around shifting etc.
People told me that 'chains stretch' and, when I fisrt started riding I found this hard to believe. It's true, they do get longer and unuasable but they don't stretch, the holes in the links connected by steel pins wear into larger holes and the sum of all this enlargement means the chain gets longer. If you want to speed up this process, you can leave the very efficient grinding paste in the chain made up of oil and road smeg. Alternatively, clean the bastard regularly with white spirit, it's not that hard. The modern 'power link' makes chain removal and therefore cleaning very easy - no more splitting which weakens chains.
This cleaning obsession (as other people see it) has lead to riducule; my wife often wonders why I don't dismantle my car and clean it as thoroughly, the answer to this is easy: my bike is worth more than my car and I don't give a toss about the car anyway. I have an order for cleaning and I make sure that nothing is skipped. It's important if you want to enjoy your cycling with a machine that works well - the same is true of any machine although people do switch on their central heating after 6 months of being switched off and wonder why is doesn't work first time!
What's the point of this post? If I am to complete this ride in reasonable shape there will need to be a cleaning/maintenance regime. I am taking a small bottle of degreaser and a small bottle of lube which, if used with care should last for the whole 12 days. I reckon on a thorough clean every two days with some shifter adjustment. I am taking spare gear cable and outers and will probably change these half way through. The downside is that the cable shears are heavy. This should keep things running smoothly though.
Anyway, the weather is supposed to be cold and wet tomorrow but I am still looking forward to the ride into work. There is spin at lunchtime and I may get a green light for the gym in the evening.
People told me that 'chains stretch' and, when I fisrt started riding I found this hard to believe. It's true, they do get longer and unuasable but they don't stretch, the holes in the links connected by steel pins wear into larger holes and the sum of all this enlargement means the chain gets longer. If you want to speed up this process, you can leave the very efficient grinding paste in the chain made up of oil and road smeg. Alternatively, clean the bastard regularly with white spirit, it's not that hard. The modern 'power link' makes chain removal and therefore cleaning very easy - no more splitting which weakens chains.
This cleaning obsession (as other people see it) has lead to riducule; my wife often wonders why I don't dismantle my car and clean it as thoroughly, the answer to this is easy: my bike is worth more than my car and I don't give a toss about the car anyway. I have an order for cleaning and I make sure that nothing is skipped. It's important if you want to enjoy your cycling with a machine that works well - the same is true of any machine although people do switch on their central heating after 6 months of being switched off and wonder why is doesn't work first time!
What's the point of this post? If I am to complete this ride in reasonable shape there will need to be a cleaning/maintenance regime. I am taking a small bottle of degreaser and a small bottle of lube which, if used with care should last for the whole 12 days. I reckon on a thorough clean every two days with some shifter adjustment. I am taking spare gear cable and outers and will probably change these half way through. The downside is that the cable shears are heavy. This should keep things running smoothly though.
Anyway, the weather is supposed to be cold and wet tomorrow but I am still looking forward to the ride into work. There is spin at lunchtime and I may get a green light for the gym in the evening.
Saturday, 28 January 2012
Trained again today - could be becoming a habit!
My legs felt fresh this morning and I spent a little time cleaning the drivetrain as it was mucky on the way home yesterday. Spence was arriving at 12pm with his new road bike, we finally set off at 12.20 and headed out of the Hanneys towards Uffington. The total ride was 50 miles in 4 hours which included a 20 minute stop for porridge and tea.
Spence wasn't sure what he would be like on a road bike as, like me, he owns a Trek mountain bike and has done all of his cycling on that up until now. We cruised along on the flat easily and attacked the hills - although 50 miles wasn't my ideal distance it was a hilly ride; the Wantage road from White Horse Hill is undulating with some short, sharp climbs sprinkled in. We cycled through Wantage and picked up the Harwell road to Lains Barn then back to Hanney for a break.
The 2nd part included some proper hills; we cycled to Wantage and then up Chain Hill (Newbury road) turning left at the Farnborough sign. Up and over the Ridgeway to the A34, short ride along the A34 to Chilton and then back to Hanney via Steventon. Chain Hill provides a good hilly interval, it's 3 separate climbs in the space of a couple of miles.
All in all a satisfying day but a few more miles would have been good. I want to do the training justice but I have to balance it with spending time at home too. The main thing is that I am getting no ill effects from the cycling in terms of my knee - my main worry.
.
Spence wasn't sure what he would be like on a road bike as, like me, he owns a Trek mountain bike and has done all of his cycling on that up until now. We cruised along on the flat easily and attacked the hills - although 50 miles wasn't my ideal distance it was a hilly ride; the Wantage road from White Horse Hill is undulating with some short, sharp climbs sprinkled in. We cycled through Wantage and picked up the Harwell road to Lains Barn then back to Hanney for a break.
The 2nd part included some proper hills; we cycled to Wantage and then up Chain Hill (Newbury road) turning left at the Farnborough sign. Up and over the Ridgeway to the A34, short ride along the A34 to Chilton and then back to Hanney via Steventon. Chain Hill provides a good hilly interval, it's 3 separate climbs in the space of a couple of miles.
All in all a satisfying day but a few more miles would have been good. I want to do the training justice but I have to balance it with spending time at home too. The main thing is that I am getting no ill effects from the cycling in terms of my knee - my main worry.
.
Friday, 27 January 2012
Fundraising gets a boost...
Commuted in at last, 17th January was the last time I cycled to worm - I hope I am over all of the mechanical problems for a while now. New brake pads have made a world of difference. The weather is rubbish at the moment but I am looking forward to the ride home.
Yesterday was a great day, the gym were bending over backwards to provide support and be involved with the challenge. My Just Giving page has already been pushed around their FB group which has resulted in a couple of donations. They have offered me free membership until after the challenge so I can train and also offered to call a number of their commercial contracts asking for sponsorship and gear.
We are also planning an All Day Spin in their reception which will be advertised on FB and also on their newsletter. Whatever we make will be a bonus plus I get extra training - all good.
I have a long ride planned tomorrow with Spence; he has just bought a new road bike and is keen to try it out. I suspect we will take in some of the rolling countryside around Uffington and south of Wantage up to the Ridgeway. The aim is to go for 5 hours of peddling, always much easier with someone to chat to.
Thursday, 26 January 2012
All the gear - no idea!
My printed cycle jerseys have arrived and look very nice thanks to Dave Knight at Cycle Clothing
http://www.cycle-clothing.co.uk/
This means that there is absolutely no going back now!
I spent yesterday lunchtime spinning and seem to be returning to a more normal level of fitness following Christmas. It's good when you can push on in the last 10 minutes instead of hanging on for dear life. I am looking forward to a training ride this weekend, the brakes have been sorted with new pads so it will be a good chance to get them bedded in.
.
There is a lot happening today, the main event is a meeting with my local gym to see what they can offer in terms of support.
Sunday, 22 January 2012
Photo Call
Spent a nice morning catching up with Damian and Matias, Harriet also joined us; the last time she saw Matias was in Special Care 7 years ago! We grabbed some photos for the fundraising profile and I think they have turned out great.
There will be times when peddling seems impossible because of the wind or something hurting, pictures like this serve to remind me that failing would not be good. I will have several photo's in my 'moral pack' for times like this....
.
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Friday, 20 January 2012
Lacking some comfort....
It's amazing how much difference a few days makes. At the beginning of this week all was progressing nicely, now a flurry of things have cropped up which, although not insurmountable, are a real pain.
Now the rubbish stuff…
The shirt design has been finalised and now just needs to be ordered, many thanks to Dave at Cycle-Clothing for his speedy response to e mails and great customer service.
Mock up's below.
Mock up's below.
I have an appointment at my local gym next Thursday to talk about their contribution to the challenge. Once I have met with them I will post details here.
I managed a decent ride last Saturday despite the cold and have been training hard in the gym having shed a kilo too. All positive.
Now the rubbish stuff…
I put in a new inner tube on the back wheel which picked up a load of Hawthorne spikes from Tuesday's commute. Rushing to fix this I perforated a new tube and discovered a broken spoke - all this at 9pm last night. I need to get the cassette off to do the spoke which needs time and daylight - bang goes my ride to work today.
I have lined up some photos with members of the Cri Du Chat Syndrome Support Group Charity on Saturday which requires an appearance by my bike as well as me. I think we will just have to hide the back wheel…..
My knees are aching too, given my desk job this will only get worse today following two hard sessions on Wednesday and Thursday. I would never chuck the towel in but things are feeling a little less comfortable at the moment.
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
Good Day Today....but cold again
Cycled into work today, knee holding up although achy and slightly off the pace but very enjoyable despite the cold. I'm convinced that the cold weather is the main reason for achy knees so am very much looking forward to the warmer months.
I visited the gym last night and asked for some upper body exercises for a number of reasons: lean up a bit, build strength in my arms to avoid the 'stiff arm' handle bars syndrome when I get tired and also to strengthen my back to avoid fatigue. This resulted in 3 exercises: Brian Jacks style dips (I can do 2 before collapsing), press up position in the suspension harness and then touching a foam block alternately whilst keeping my legs straight (tough on the core) and underhand chin ups with my feet supported on a bench. I am woeful at all of them but will just keep plugging away until I can do better numbers.
I received an e mail today from the League Cricket Association who want to do a story for their website. The interview was done over the phone and we just need some pics to put with it as well. They have 25,000 members so I will FB and Twitter this to death! I also asked for a cheeky donation so we will see what happens there.
I had a quick lesson on Social Media Marketing too from a colleague - all looks complicated and there is a lot to do but it has to be done - great way of maximising donations. £400 already and going well. If anyone cares, my hash tag is @hanneyboi
Bike is working well, I am not too bad in the mechanical department and the PR seems to be going well.
I visited the gym last night and asked for some upper body exercises for a number of reasons: lean up a bit, build strength in my arms to avoid the 'stiff arm' handle bars syndrome when I get tired and also to strengthen my back to avoid fatigue. This resulted in 3 exercises: Brian Jacks style dips (I can do 2 before collapsing), press up position in the suspension harness and then touching a foam block alternately whilst keeping my legs straight (tough on the core) and underhand chin ups with my feet supported on a bench. I am woeful at all of them but will just keep plugging away until I can do better numbers.
I received an e mail today from the League Cricket Association who want to do a story for their website. The interview was done over the phone and we just need some pics to put with it as well. They have 25,000 members so I will FB and Twitter this to death! I also asked for a cheeky donation so we will see what happens there.
I had a quick lesson on Social Media Marketing too from a colleague - all looks complicated and there is a lot to do but it has to be done - great way of maximising donations. £400 already and going well. If anyone cares, my hash tag is @hanneyboi
Bike is working well, I am not too bad in the mechanical department and the PR seems to be going well.
Saturday, 14 January 2012
Very cold day to train...
Very happy with 60 miles today given the temperature and a lack of enthusiasm since Christmas. I have been training at the gym but as I was reminded by a very sage man, specificity is the holy grail. I cycled to Drayton to pick up Spence, we did 25 miles around Abingdon, Kennington , Bagley Wood and the Thames at Abingdon to Drayton. Spence bailed for a shower and a cuppa, I settled for an energy gel to get me home for tea and buns.
I set off again to do a 23 mile loop to Uffington, Fawler back on the Wantage road, through town onto the Harwell road and then turned left at Lains Barn.
Learnings from today:
I would say that this represents a morning's cycling in that I wasn't completely out of fuel when I finished - at this point I would be looking for a place to have something hot and have a reasonable rest. Given that the longest day on the whole trip is just over 100 miles, that leaves another 40 to cover before bedtime. The average day is about 86 so another 26 miles in an afetrnoon would be ok even with weight on the bike (which I did not have today).
Total time out was 4.75 hours, total peddling time was 4hr 7mins; used lights from about 4pm. It will be slower with kit but the important thing is that a typical day's cycling is achievable - good news with only 4 months to go.
Came home to an e mail from the gym, apparently one of the members was going to do LEJOG but it fell through, he may be up for some rides so I will drop him an e mail tomorrow. The gym are keen to help with the challenge and I am hoping to sort a meeting soon.
I will celebrate with a malt and two codiene.....
I set off again to do a 23 mile loop to Uffington, Fawler back on the Wantage road, through town onto the Harwell road and then turned left at Lains Barn.
Learnings from today:
- Avoid energy gels at all costs - you can cope with a dose of rusty p*ss at home but in and out of a tent will be miserable. The sell by date was June 11 though which has lead to me ruining the toilet.
- Relax and cycle easy - avoids tense shoulders, numb hands and protects a dodgy knee.
- Don't focus on the end goal - it only makes you feel miserable and inadequate. Just cycle!
- Eat/get off little and often. Avoid the empty feeling.
I would say that this represents a morning's cycling in that I wasn't completely out of fuel when I finished - at this point I would be looking for a place to have something hot and have a reasonable rest. Given that the longest day on the whole trip is just over 100 miles, that leaves another 40 to cover before bedtime. The average day is about 86 so another 26 miles in an afetrnoon would be ok even with weight on the bike (which I did not have today).
Total time out was 4.75 hours, total peddling time was 4hr 7mins; used lights from about 4pm. It will be slower with kit but the important thing is that a typical day's cycling is achievable - good news with only 4 months to go.
Came home to an e mail from the gym, apparently one of the members was going to do LEJOG but it fell through, he may be up for some rides so I will drop him an e mail tomorrow. The gym are keen to help with the challenge and I am hoping to sort a meeting soon.
I will celebrate with a malt and two codiene.....
Friday, 13 January 2012
Generating interest...
I have made many enquiries this week of various people to try and sort things like printed cycling jerseys, train timetabels, CTC membership etc etc. I also made a point of adding the relevant touist information centres phone numbers into my phone just in case.
I have been trying to get to grips with Social Media Marketing but have to admit to being the wrong age to really understand this properly. The patron of the Charity is Jo Whiley so I have started to follow her on Twitter with a view to tweeting about the fact that I am raising funds for CDC - she may notice? A re-tweet from her would be ideal.
I have started at the local gym with a months membership and they are keen to meet to discuss how they can help with the challenge. Not sure what to expect but anything is a bonus! Going to be a busy weekend with Spence coming over for a ride and all the usual weekend activity.
I have been trying to get to grips with Social Media Marketing but have to admit to being the wrong age to really understand this properly. The patron of the Charity is Jo Whiley so I have started to follow her on Twitter with a view to tweeting about the fact that I am raising funds for CDC - she may notice? A re-tweet from her would be ideal.
I have started at the local gym with a months membership and they are keen to meet to discuss how they can help with the challenge. Not sure what to expect but anything is a bonus! Going to be a busy weekend with Spence coming over for a ride and all the usual weekend activity.
Sunday, 8 January 2012
Busy weekend...
Flat tyre last night, tried to repair it but I think the valve has gone = no long ride today. Thinking of taking my months gym membership now given the rubbish weather and lack of cycling. The ideal would be to lose a couple of kilos off the spare tyre and build some back/upper body muscle. Fatigue in my back and shoulders after 60 miles tends to be uncomfortable so the stronger I am the better.
Ben attended county nets this morning which gave me a couple of hours to create a to do-list while I watched. I've put up a couple of posters in the bus shelters at the Hanneys and have made some noises through the FB group. Everyone is being very supportive and it does help with the confidence level - at the moment I am still in the sceptical camp about completing the challenge, especially given some knee discomfort following the gym classes last week. This is unusual for me as I normally believe I can do anything!
If anyone still finds this blog vaguely interesting this might make you smile. A certain notorious cricket coach gave a team talk to the parents this morning and declared himself the most competative person you'd every meet, I was tempted to say 'No Dave, you're wrong...you're the second because you've already met me....' I kept quiet to avoid ruining his moment with the fresh meat parents.
I completed a risk assessment for the gym at work to show them I had given some thought to this side of things before I do a day's worth of turbo accompanied by two very large buckets for cash! I suspect that they will put their own spin (if you pardon the pun (need a punctuation mark for 'camp')) on it to keep Unipart happy but that's fine. Aiming for 9th April if everyone agrees.
And here goes another week on the treadmill of work......
Ben attended county nets this morning which gave me a couple of hours to create a to do-list while I watched. I've put up a couple of posters in the bus shelters at the Hanneys and have made some noises through the FB group. Everyone is being very supportive and it does help with the confidence level - at the moment I am still in the sceptical camp about completing the challenge, especially given some knee discomfort following the gym classes last week. This is unusual for me as I normally believe I can do anything!
If anyone still finds this blog vaguely interesting this might make you smile. A certain notorious cricket coach gave a team talk to the parents this morning and declared himself the most competative person you'd every meet, I was tempted to say 'No Dave, you're wrong...you're the second because you've already met me....' I kept quiet to avoid ruining his moment with the fresh meat parents.
I completed a risk assessment for the gym at work to show them I had given some thought to this side of things before I do a day's worth of turbo accompanied by two very large buckets for cash! I suspect that they will put their own spin (if you pardon the pun (need a punctuation mark for 'camp')) on it to keep Unipart happy but that's fine. Aiming for 9th April if everyone agrees.
And here goes another week on the treadmill of work......
Friday, 6 January 2012
Christmas takes it's toll.
A reasonable week of non bike training following the Christmas break. It seems that conditioning doesn't take a lot of time to diminish given plenty of seasonal food and drink. The other downside is a painful amount of soreness - anyone would think that I'd never been to gym before.
Planning a one hour hill session tomorrow - complete destruction of the lower body.
Planning a one hour hill session tomorrow - complete destruction of the lower body.
Tuesday, 3 January 2012
Happy New Year!
I have spent most of the Christmas break planning places to stay and starting the promotion side of things. I did manage one 30 mile ride but that was it, because of the muddy conditions I spent an afternoon cleaning things thoroughly and making various adjustments. The gears are shifting nicely again.
I bought a new, slightly wider, saddle to see if this made a difference to the discomfort that I get after a day's riding. People have advised all sorts of cures and remedies but I thought I would try the simple solution first. Chamois cream came in at £17 for a toothpaste sized volume - it has better yield some results!
I wrote an article for the cricket club's website and shared tis around FB:
http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/challowchildreycc/news/charity-ride--lands-end-to-j-465935.html
I'm thinking of limiting the posts from the FB Group to avoid people getting bored with the whole thing and potentially blocking feeds; maybe a two-liner every week with a more in-depth article every 3 weeks or so?
Sam is checking out some options for transport from John O'Groats which is very helpful, it takes some of the work load off of me and I'm not that good at this kind of admin anyway. I also had an offer of accommodation and transport to Land's End from an old mate, should make for a great start to the ride. The current plan is to get dropped off at Swindon railway station, get the Plymouth service to Truro and get collected there. It will be a good opportunity to do a final gear check and get a good night's sleep before the off.
New Year fitness regime began in earnest this lunchtime, apparently there is a lot to do….
I bought a new, slightly wider, saddle to see if this made a difference to the discomfort that I get after a day's riding. People have advised all sorts of cures and remedies but I thought I would try the simple solution first. Chamois cream came in at £17 for a toothpaste sized volume - it has better yield some results!
I wrote an article for the cricket club's website and shared tis around FB:
http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/challowchildreycc/news/charity-ride--lands-end-to-j-465935.html
I'm thinking of limiting the posts from the FB Group to avoid people getting bored with the whole thing and potentially blocking feeds; maybe a two-liner every week with a more in-depth article every 3 weeks or so?
Sam is checking out some options for transport from John O'Groats which is very helpful, it takes some of the work load off of me and I'm not that good at this kind of admin anyway. I also had an offer of accommodation and transport to Land's End from an old mate, should make for a great start to the ride. The current plan is to get dropped off at Swindon railway station, get the Plymouth service to Truro and get collected there. It will be a good opportunity to do a final gear check and get a good night's sleep before the off.
New Year fitness regime began in earnest this lunchtime, apparently there is a lot to do….
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