Today, as a test of my preparation, I joined 2,000 other cyclists in the Isle of Wight Randonnée - a 100km circumnavigation of this hilly island. See http://www.cycleisland.co.uk/ . These are the photos. For some reason, they have come out in reverse order...
* 8am Southampton-Cowes ferry
* Queuing at the chain ferry
* Checkpoint Yarmouth
* The fantastic Freshwater Bay - down and up again
* Checkpoint Whitwell
* Me and my certificates - in serious pain
I can't believe the wide variety of people taking part. All sorts and conditions.
As for myself, the pace was good, the pain was significant. I avoided getting off to walk, and - of the 6 stages - I think it was stages 3 and 5 which caned the most. For the first time, I had serious doubts and the cramps were kicking in. However, this has shown that 70 miles (including the ride to/from the ferry from home) is feasible and given me some ideas about the way to continue the build-up to July 23rd.
I've been blessed with my first target £1,400 sponsorship from friends and colleagues. Today, I am resolved to redouble efforts to getting more from strangers.
No comments:
Post a Comment