Training Log Archive: ahp

Back on my bicycle, and it felt a-mazing. At times almost effortless. Just so smooth and I glided along so happily. Knees a little sore from the last couple of days, and battled 18mph for what felt like the majority of the ride - streaming eyes, nose etc. (not fun) - but great to still have a little left in my legs. Being fit is just the greatest thing ever. Determined not to let it slip as I return to Cambridge tomorrow.

Timing an absolute guess. 60 miles from Cheddar to Tiverton. First 30 miles to Taunton for 'first lunch' and replacement of Ed's damaged bike. Next 30 a combination of lovely little country later and (yet more) tow paths, with a final disused railway track in to Tiverton and the inevitable first puncture a mile before my end destination.

Further ~6 miles across London, from Paddington to Liverool Street. Was dreading it but strangely loved it - a real thrill to be on a bicycle amongst the chaos and traffic with the big sights (Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, St Pauls) passing me by as I whizzed along Victoria Embankment. Shame about the slowly deflating back tire.

First 30 miles through Worcestershire lovely. Speedy, since we were slightly behind schedule. Picked up Jack's pal, Chris, at Gloucester, followed by a tiresome bout of tow paths and farm tracks, complete with three punctures and a broken spoke (fortunately none affecting me). Things picked up post-lunch, a glorious winding road approaching Bristol, dotted with tucked away cottages and sweet little lanes. Last 20 miles to Cheddar along a disused railway track. Slightly uninspiring but beautiful dappled sunlight and flat. Ibuprofen AM and at mile 30.

Big day! Shordley Hall Farm (Ed's) to Worcester. First 30 miles a breeze - surprisingly flat and fast, coffee and flapjack in a little deli in Wem. Next 30 miles fine - hillier, but interesting scenery (down into the Ironbridge valley). Lunch planned at Sainsbury's in Bridgenorth - unfortunately missed the turn, and the thought of trauling back up the hill didn't appeal, so an executive decision was made to continue to Beudlsey 15 miles on. ENORMOUSLY hills. Relentless undulations. Closest I've ever come to not being able to breathe. Lunch at mile 78 (bread + humous + veg crisps + mango). Heavens opened from then onwards - drowned rats. Drenched to the bone. (Trapped sciatic-wise: Ibuprofen AM, hurting now. Tomorrow will double dose).

Felt a little squeezy still, which later turned into hunger squeeziness - not fun. Didn't push too hard in an attempt to save my legs.

Great ride. Extra Shaftenhoe End loop, then back through the Pelhams as the road between Rickling and Manuden is being resurfaced. Flew round. Unexpected energy from only a couple hours of sleep - perhaps the coffee I had beforehand. Felt a little squeezy (ate too soon before leaving), but felt well and truly fit. What a difference seven days can make.