Club Run 4/12/11 & Night Cycle with the Wheelers 14/12/11

4/12/11 - Club run
11/12/11 - solo fast Harrington Loop
14/12/11 - fast 1900 night ride with the Wheelers - 20m in 1h 15m @ 16mph - Dark cold magnificent

November 2011 ...three sunday club runs....

6/11/11
Clear cool sunny morning. Met with 'old' Tom and a few of the lads. Roger seems to be a regular...other riders have come & gone. Today there was a girl from Australia with us. We headed eastwards into the wind and through Thrapston looping around skirting Oundle and home through Brigstock. A lovely ride and my legs keeping their fitness - I'm determined to keep riding through this winter...once it arrives!
40.35 2h41m @15mph 1688ft climb

20/11/11
More grey & overcast but generally mild - Tom led us southwards skirting Wollaston before heading home. One of the chaps had a puncture within 400yds of the start! And my rear gear cable snapped! Tom adjusted the chain up a couple of cogs and I made it home using the 3 front gears...bit like my old Raleigh 3-speed I rode for so many years
33m 2h12m @15mph 1147ft climb

27/11/11
Took Belle in for a full service & new cable in the week. As I was getting ready the heavens opened. I met up with young Hamish from over the road. His dad Richard was at Medical School with me 30 years ago. We rowed in the St Marys 1st VIII (Drug industry sponsored it was called FLAGYL-VIII!!! Flagyl being an antibiotic mostly used in gynaecological infections!), and it's a strange co-incidence that we should live in the same street. With clear blue skies and a brisk westerly wind Tom took us north to Geddington, then we battled in the wing across to Sibbertoft. The ride home from there was a wind assisted fast rollercoaster ride as we reaped the 'up wind investement!' I hit 42mph on a hill that I plan to return to...especially with a westerly wind! Roger's chain snapped coming out of Kelmarsh. Fortunately I had the de-linker and Tom had the Knowledge so we were soon on our way home. Hamish kept up well and despite the fatigue of a rugby game the day before finished strongly. At the end my legs felt like they had more miles in them and my new DHB super-rubeaux bib tights were very comfy & warm....thanks for the advice Michiel.
34.9 2h30m @13.9mph 1559ft climb

TOTAL FOR 2011 - 2696m 184.5 hours (moving!) can I get to 3000?? I think I'll go for it!

29th October THE WILD EDRIC (kilotogo.com)

(click to enlarge)
Up at 0500 to get to Bishopd castle for the start under grey skies with a chilling southerly wind.
Met up with Michiel and we were off. (No sign of Andy L.)
The first section was part of the LEJOG route until we headed off to climb the Long Mynd...from 550ft to 1600ft+ in only a hew miles. Initially steep the climb eased and it felt like Dartmoor up there with the heather & galloping ponies! Once over the top the descent was a truly white knuckle extreme experience with a severe drop to the left as we came down into Church Stratton. I had to stop to rest my forearms as the muscles locked up with the continued braking.

,,,,more to follow...

59m 4h24 @ ~14mph PASSED THE 2500m barrier for 2011!!

15th October...journey to the centre of...England!!

Set off early & headed west past Lutterworth & through Hinkley picking up the beautiful canal as I then turned South to visit Lindley hall Farm! Why may you well ask....well according to the Ordanance Survey this spot is the centre of England. There should be a tall 'hub' monument at the spot. Instead a rather rusty grubby sign and a poorly maintained concrete lane.
Retracing my route I then went up past the Bosworth Batthefield, Market Bosworth itself, and then up and over the Markham hill. The descent into Loughborough in uncharacteristic warm sunshine was fast & exciting. Soon I was on the train & home for a well earned lunch!
66m

9th October Kettering to Luton 59m

This route had been on my radar for a while so I was up at 0700 ready to set off...But winter is drawing in and it was pitch black & pissing down big time.
So I contemplated going back to bed but by 0730 the light was improving and clouds were clearing. Despite a fairly stiff, but warm, SW winnd I set off down past Northampton. Once through Horton I was into new cycle territory for me. Passed through Selsey forest & on over the M1 and down to the halfway point at Castlethorpe.
Here I joined Watling Street as it passed to the west of Milton Keynes. Here there were some other cyclists on a sportive & their company spurred me on. Finally turning eastward the wind became 'angels breath' on my R shoulder and I was able to pick up speed.
North of L.Buzzard I checked out Three Locks Golf course and it's added to my target list!
Once through that town I was along past Tisworth Golf centre. Played ther with my brother about 20years ago...the trees & bushes have inevitably grown up alot.
On into Luton arriving about 1140. 1207 train home & in shower by 1pm!
Really enjoyed the ride & checked out some new bits of good old England!
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/752428
58.9m 3h49m @ 15.4mph
Total for 2011 2356m should make 2500m this year hopefully

25th Sep CYCLE4CYNTHIA

Terrific ride starting at Althorpe House and encouraged by the Earl & his wife.
Heading north at good speed we found the second half quite tricky into the freshening southerly wind.
Michiel & I hoped to break the 3 hour barrier but the headwind defeated us...maybe next year we'll be 5 mins fatser!
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/595933
49.8m 3h05m @ 16.4mph

11th September 2011

Will be up early to ride in the MACRIDE this Sunday.
Rode it last year..a lovely circuit around Warwickshire.
Meeting Michiel Tim Thorpy Toby & Andy Love(L2P 2011)
http://www.macride.org.uk/

Next planned ride is the CYCLE4CYNTHIA on 25/9/11
http://www.cycle4cynthia.co.uk/

4th September - Kettering to Derby solo

Firstly see link to Tim Doogood ?DoGOD telling the amazing story of his 1200+k 77 hour PBP marathon ride...AWESOME stuff mate.
After riding to Nottingham I decided to do the ride to Derby & keep the old legs going ready for the MACRIDE next week & CYCLE4CYNTHIA ride in 3 weeks.
Off at 7 again, this time under grey skies, then drizzle and past Leicester pissing rain - I mad good progress out past east Midlands Airport & on to Chelvaston.
Here I briefly visitted Manor Road...where my great Uncle Horace lived back in the 1930's. Unfortunately the houses were generally 1970-ish era.
I arrived at derby Station at 1120 - with enough time for coffe croissant & home on the 1146 train.
Very damp and the hot shower was very welcome. Shame I didnt make the Manchester 100 with Simes & AndyW - or even Darren...maybe next year
63.5m 4h05m @ 15.5mph 1931ft climb
TOTAL FOR 2011 now 2139m 148h pedalling!
route:- http://ridewithgps.com/trips/380165

16-26th August the Broads

We had a boat for 10 days and got to Beccles Norwich Great Yarmouth Potter Higham etc.
I took the old tractor bike and did some exploring over the lovely Norfolk countryside.
Total Miles 98.2 at a more sedate pace on the heavy solid old raleigh!

14th August - Kettering to Nottingham solo ride

DooGood is now resting up prior to his Paris-Brest-Paris cycle in 1 weeks time. This crazy event takes place every FOUR years and is a non stop...1200k...yes 800+mile ride. Even thinking about if fills me with dread and puts some of my expoits in the shade. Andy (L2P '09) has just done a triathlon (2.5m swim:100 mile cycle: and then a full marathon)...al I can say is RESPECT to you guys...
Anyway I have had this kettering to Nottingham cycle in the back of my mind for some time so I decided to bite the bullet & go for it...after all it's only 56 miles!
Set off at 0700 and met up with Tim who joined me for a few miles before he headed home.
The weather was fair and I enjoyed the countryside, especially along the old Grantham to Nottingham canal...that needs alot of renovation.
I eased into Nottingham with plenty of time to catch the train home after some lovely coffee.
England isn't really that big.....
56.5m 3h49m @ 14.8mph 3152ft

7th August THE GREAT SHAKESPEARE RIDE

Up early & over to Stratford-upon-Avon.
Bet up with Andy Love (L2P 2011) and 800 other riders as we set off en masse under Police escort!
Generally flat we sped on over the early miles dodging wasps in warm weather and tackling a few strategic hills on the way. Gradually the weather dteriorated and in the final wet miserable miles I was cursing the fact thet I hadn't put the mudguards on...I hate that cold wet arse feeling!
I omitted the last hill, my excuse being that I needed to get to Warwick castle to meet up with the rest of my family.
A good ride for a great cause & I hope to do again
61.6m 3h49m @ 16.1mph 3483ft climb
the route as recorded on my Garmin :-
http://ridewithgps.com/trips/380197

Previously tried to break the 2h round Corby route - started well but faded to 2h5m...
31.7.11 34.8m 2h05m @16.6 1283ft

20th July L2P Day 1 Chessington to Portsmouth 75m PUNCTURE CARNAGE!!

THE SHACK at Shackleford!
HERE WE GO!
We travelled down the night before & stayed in Leatherhead Travelodge - as we checked out the start point there was monsoon conditions!
In the morning we congregated on the car park, with a general sense of anticipation as we got our bikes ready & put the bags in the correct van. First Olly (from AMR & cycling with us) then 'Tiny' (boss of 14 from discoveradventure) gave us a pep talk and we were on our way in groups of 30. In our group we had 134 cyclists with a grand total og >500 across the 5 routes!!
In cool grey conditions we slipped out of the suburbs and over the M25. Initially the roads were good but as the day progressed and the rain fell again the deterioration was dramatic. With old pot holes and copious fresh mud, grit and other debris these were some of the worst & most prolonged roads I have ever cycled.
In the mid section there was pucture carnage with bikes stopped every 50-100yds. Luke was first with a flat front, then Andy & I simultaneously had rear flats somewhere past Guildford.
There was time to chat & get to know some of our fellow riders. A slightly (generally) overweight 'coca-cola team stood out in their garish outfits.
Soon we were facing a long steep hill but once at the top could looks down onto Portsmouth, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight beyond. For once on the descent we could let go of the brakes & shoot down into town, meeting up at a park not far from the ferry terminal.
A few of us doubled back for a rewarding & satisfying Guinness!
Soonwe were checking onto the boat, enjoying a couple more beers as we steamed out of the terminal. A steak & chips supper was devoured and we retired to the shoe box sized but comfortable cabin. The shower was excellent and cleared alot of grime off our muddy legs

21st July L2P Day 2 St Malo to Mayenne 85 miles

We awoke to the throbbing of the ferry and Luke & I went off for breakfast at 0630 whilst Graham & Albert packed up. A sensible idea in the tiny shoe box cabin. We then watched as we pulled into to a rather dreary drizzly StMalo. Once the traffic was off the boat we could wheel our bikes off, have a quick briefing about the route (keep following the orange arrows) we climbed up remembering to keep on the right.
This early part was fairly flat and we sped along enjoying the freedom and clean road surfaces after the muddy gritty shitty roads from the day before.
The drink stop was next to a large asterix & Obelix menhir rock! Our DA leader 'Tiny' set off asking us to wait a bit before following....which we did and came down & around...to where we'd been before!! so we carried on, as indicated on the garmin, and rejoined the orange arrow trail again. Through the rolling countryside we went as the weather brightened up a bit getting to lunch in good time.
After lunch we all stopped en masse in the lovely town of Fouges with it's castle & moat. Andy Luke & I enjoyed a long cold beer before pressing on. The next section became very rural

Fri 23rd July L2P Day 3 Mayenne to Chartres 118 miles! ...it'd be rude not to...

Monster day - started with alarm call at 0530 (0430 GMT) and set off @ 0700 (0600 GMT!)
We set off one by one in drizzle, all aprehensive about the long day ahead. I stopped to get cash then missed one of the little orange arrows....having to turn back after nearly a mile cursing my stupidity....with more than 110 miles ahead I bleeding get lost and add distance!!!
Soon the weather brightened and the first drink stop at XXX was a beautiful spot by a river in a pretty little village. A few locals waved from the windows "nous avons à Paris!!!" "Paris!!! Bon chance crazy Anglais etc" On we went, passing along a 15 mile 'roman road' stretch the latter part seeming to have the original roman surface!! Having lunch at Marners after 50 miles we were all feeling knackered but still with 68 much hillier miles ahead..... The sun was out and we sped on into the arable rich landscape (maize/barley/wheat/sunflowers - fields that seemed to stretch forever) Slowly the land became more lumpy and the climb into Belleme ('bell-end') was rewarded with a great large lager which certainly hit the spot.
Along through Noce, Fretigny, the next 30-40 miles up until a Water stop at Magny were some of the hardest hills encountered. On one steep hill Ed was ahead of me and 'CRACK!!' his chain snapped. A while ago I had dreamt that this would happen to me & have been carrying the link and tool to prepare the two ends - in a jiffy it was on but without pliers it was not possible to close the link properly - a call to Phil the multi-talented techo and I carried on my way. Ed was soon back on the road again and I finally got to the drink stop in bright sunshine and out of water. Suitably fuelled up we then tackled a few monster hills. Going up one Luke had his head down and ran off the road into the verge & a plastic piller!! No damage done we decided to try & find a bar - all through France so far we were all wondering where the French actually were - villages & roads all very quiet & not an open Bar for miles.
My sticky right cleet caught me out as I gently toppled to the right at the top of a particularily nasty hill...again no injury ensued but a laugh at my expense was had!
As we rode into Chartes the road became flatter & straighter and after 110 miles I gained some energy from somewhere as we sped into town.
As usual the Hotel was down then up through to the other side of town.
Tonight all 134 of us were together for a rather disappointing (after last nights meal) pasta & pork offering! We decided it might be rude not to have another beer and then off to bed, satisfied on a great days riding, with most of the route to Paris having been conquered.]
118m in 8h46m @14mph total so far

Sat 24th JULY L2P Day 4 Chartres to Paris 56 miles

We were slightly disappointe to hear of a 0630 alarm call today - but relieved that this was to allow a staggered start so thet we 134 could meet up with the other 400 riders from the other 4 routes! That said we decided to get up for breaky at 0730 & got underway about 0815...
Conditions were perfect....in fact better than perfect...cycling just doesn't get better than this! Slight breeze from the left with long gentle roads with a great surface we sped along 'prairie' type country as we shot through Coltainville & Gallardon at a great speed - a small group with young (Dr) Jonathon in his 'Cavendish" HTC kit, Andy(Bianci-man), Andrew, Luke & myself powering along passing small groups who had set out earlier.
Soon we were through Rambouillet and sweeping down some majestic hills to the water stop in some woods. Soon re-fuelled we carried on and stopped en-masses in Lapierre(?) for a coffee in delightful surroundings and sunshine!
On to lunch we all carefully dodged the tricky tramlines set at an angle to trap unwary cyclists.
Here we regrouped & re 'carbed' on fine local beer ready for the run into town.
From now on the countryside was left behind us and the stop-start pattern for the rest of the day began. Unfortunately after gorgeous weather, dark clouds loomed and as we passed the Palace of Versaille the heavens opened, and I mean opened - so we cowered on bus shelters & under trees until the rain subsided a bit, then stoically carried on.
The run in was a tricky slippy dangerous technical ride but we all took care & safely arrived at XXX to re-group and wait for the time to rendezvous with the rest of the AMR cyclists!

STOPPING THE ARC We all grouped together then -moved out en masse under the arc de triomphe stopping the trqffic Great cheers qnd horn blowing ensued with arm waves qnd other celebratory gestures!!!! Then under police escort the 500 riders 2-300 yds long peleton paraded through to the Eiffel tower with great cheers and waves passing through red lights as we enjoyed our achievement!!!
Then more pictures and bubbly before going on to our Hotel Pullman. Our room at the front with views of the Eiffel Tower only 200yds away!
Later a celebratory meal with the photographers pictures beamed up onto a huge screen.
Thanks were given and we all applauded when we were told about the estimated amount raised (800,000+!!!) and some info on where the money will be spent...
After dinner we appreciated the atmosphere of a floodlit Tower at around midnight with plenty of people still about. Met an Aussie who was happy that barring a fall Cadel Evans (surely hes Welsh!!!) will win the Tour tomorrow.......we ll be watching in the crowd.
So off to bed with stiff legs , and we all have that strange shuffling gait!

sorry limited internet and my fone not France enabled...looks clear day we'll watch out for Sat traffic!

Sat stiff tired ready for final run in. Eiffel Tower @ 1530 all being well. terrible news from Oslo all shocked

both finished VERY tired but strong as we headed for twin spire cathedral good dinner few beers feel better

fri 22nd monster 118 mile day mayenne to chartres safeky in will put detelails later

up early 0530 start 109 m to chartres good team spirit here great mutual support and piss taking!!

all well luke king of the hills! less wet today.more when i can....

safe in mayenne hopeless connection no fone all well

19th July ...here we go...

All packed up - bikes loaded up - bags all packed.
Off down to Leatherhead.
Meet & register at Chessington Holiday Inn ready for a 0900 start!
No riding for 8 days...our legs are ready to start!
Hopefully can update here - or go to twitter.com
search for septic77 and my tweets will be there!

10th July 2011 THE WILD ONE!

This was the Peterborough CC organised Sportive.
Despite storms in other parts of the UK the morning was absolutely perfect! Blue skies and only a light wind. We left Southwick soon (after a wasp sting to my head) at Harringworth, then Liddington, around the beautiful Eve =brrok Resevoir and after a fast stretch scrounged a cup of tea off Tim in Medbourne. Then up the steep Nevill Holt Hill and a run through past Goadby and onto the B6-47 through the Langtons. A second stop at the Rockingham Wheelers base in Middleton and we were ready for the three major hills home Cottingham.Rockingham and Harrington. Pretty weary we came home in good spirits...nice pint of SHACKLEBUSH Ale(!) eassed them aching legs.
Well thats the major training all done - MANY THANKS to ALL who have sposored us - we now feel fit & ready for the 'off' in 10 days....
90m 5h57m @15.3mph 4100ft climb

4th July - here we go

Time constraints/work commitments this week have meant that the daily rides may not be long, but will be pushed along at a good pace!

MON 4th Desbro/Harrington 20.9m 1h17m @ 16.2mph
TUE 5th - Harrington loop 16.5m 1h55s @ 16.5mpg
WED 6th - harrington/pychley 14.3m 1h37s @ 14.3mph - very wet!
THU 7th - Luke-harrington/lamport ~24m Clive Harrington loop 16.5m 55m48s @ 17.8mph
FRI 8th - 28m Grafton/geddington/desbro/rothwell @16mph
SAT 9th - rest up
SUN 10th - THE WILD ROUTE

13/6-3/7/11 various rides short & long

quite a few local rides - and a few days off on golf tour!
Plan is do do intensive DAILY rides from Mon 4th July - with a tough 88m Peterborough Cycle Club Sportive (WILD ROUTE) on Sun 10th July as our final large bit of work.
http://www.peterboroughcyclingclub.co.uk/content/view/517/70/
Then some short sharp rides allowing 6-7 days rest before the off!

12th June Bury St Edmunds 100

We were up early and at the start ready for the 0830 off. Initially bright & sunny the temperatures dropped and clouds gathered. I was disappointed that a new route had been imposed. Initially pleasant the terrain became more dull & dreary as we neared Ipswich. The cyclists thinned out and as we headed north the rain started. In the end we decided to cut our losses and head for the start. Not 100 miles but over 100k completed, and we were shattered.
63m

5th June - THE NORWICH 100!

FIRSTLY BIG THANKS TO ALL WHO HAVE SPONSORED US SO FAR - We are training hard and every penny is spurring us onwards towards our goal in Paris!

Michiel got the nod and the Shacks headed off to stay the night at Wensum Valley Hotel just outside Norwich. Memories of the 2007 golf tour for Clive, the course looking as dry & sandy as I remembered.
Up early for breakfast at 0700 & off into the confusing town of Norwich. We ere dropped off and went through to meet Michiel at the start along with 3000+ others in the glorious early summer sunshine.
We were off and the gusty NE wind promised a tough first half, but an 'angels breath' to help us on the run in. This is a great ride and we swished through the lovely countryside and 'Old world' villages, cruising along hardly doing any work! A few hills came along before the lunchstop at Sheringham School. In our team ACTION MEDICAL shirts we adopted several riders as our pacemakers.
Gradually as we slowly turned southwards the wind helped more & more to compensate for tiring legs. Luke lost his 70 80 90 & 100 mile virginity with ease.
A pint at 90 miles (where we met up with Finn & Ali) gave us fuel for a fast ride back into Norwich, steaming past other cyclists, and buzzing with adrenalin and serotonin!!
Through the finish line our medals awarded we headed home - for me this is a ride I want to repeat...every year!!
100.04m 6h52 @ 14.6mph 3328ft climb
Here's a few clips that capture the feeling.............

28th May-1st June

Four smaller rides totalling 72 miles.
Met up with Michiel early on the Bank Hol Monday in Lutterworth with a planned cycle to Shacklestone & back via Bosworth (battle 1485) Field.
Unfortunately the rain & cold defeated us and like a group of soggy wimps we retreated home, vowing to do the ride another day soon.
Hopefully warmer for the Norwich 100 next weekend!

22nd May Dorset Coast and Getting lost!

Went down in Ruby on Saturday and made camp near Upton.
First disaster...I'd forgotten my padded Lycra shorts!!!
Having planned to take in part of the bike-events ride and add a few miles to Lulworth Cove we decided to stick to the route. As it happened we got lost a couple of times, and early on ended up travelling north instead of south! The local road signs were totally crap, but after going along a gravel bridleway past an interesting watercress farm we got back on the road with the other riders. Unfortunately we went the long way to Corfe via Lulworth castle and an enormous hill. Then another out of Corfe after passing this amazing castle - must have been imposing when new!
We then sped down into Swanage, then up and over & down to the chain ferry to Sandbanks.
This clunking contraption complete with a 'Captain' in full Uniform (dreaming of a proper ship!).
We got some chips and headed back up the prom and through the town back to the campsite.
Thanks to Ali & Luke again for providing support and being to patient!
We were both pretty knackered and I have been reminded of the necessity for padded shorts!!
60.6m 5h01m @ 12mph 3753ft climb 2011 mileage (CS) 939.9
With thanks to all our sponsors so far - much appreciated

20th May record attempt!

Home from work with itchy legs, and inspired after watching some of the Giro D'Italia on TV - I set off at punishing pace. Pushing on with only a brief stop on the A14 bridge I got round in record equalling time. Hopefully can get closer to 50mins on a day with less stupid flipping traffic idiots.
16.5m 55m30s @17.9mph 603ft climb

15th May - Grey & windy cycle to Foxton & back.

Ground it out through Desborough & Market Harborough past the grim Gartree Prison and back whizzing along in the wind to Harrington and familair fast route past the old 'farpoint', Loddington, and home...tiring!
39.5m 2h38m @15mph 2007ft climb
Tim Tom taylor - crazy audax king has surpassed all he's done before! Having complete 100k 200k 300k and even 400k events...he's now done a 600k event!! From Chepstow to Anglesey & back in 36 hours. I am speechless. It's an awesome achievement and puts my rather pathetic efforts into the shade. I still cannot believe it!! Incredible....I don't have the words....

11th May Harrington Loop

Luke & I pushed around at good speed - still not broken 1 hour together...too windy today, but >16mph average....
16.5m 1h04m @16.5mph 603ft climb

8th May - The Classic Oxford Cycle 60 miles

All drove down together early in the morning. Luke & I saddled up in the warm windy sunshine and joined the ride.
Out to Wallingford was easy in the W wind, but the drag westwrds along the top was...a drag. Soon we looped round to Uffington to a welcome drink - I remember this pub from 2009 with Darren. Here we caught up with Ali & Finn before tackling the hilly 15 miles through Wantage to the finish.
On the way Luke passed his first 50 and 60 mile landmarks - WELL DONE again!
60.03m 4h20m @ 13.8mph 1895ft climb

4th May out with Luke - his first ride on the GT series 3

Nice sunny afternoon - headed out to Titchmarsh (great carving on village sign) & back via Woodford.
Luke found bike 'light & wobbly' at first but once used to it realised the benefits of such a light bike...WELL DONE!
32.6m 2h29 @13.1mph 1500ft climb

24th April - SQUIRES & SHIRES RIDE Naseby.

I remember 2 years ago this was only my second big ride at the start of my LEJOG training, and 1st time >60 miles!
Met up with Michiel and we shivered as we waited to start. The day before had been blisteringly hot for April! 29 degrees!!
Once we got going things warmed up and the opening few miles are fast furious & downhill!
Up round the Swinford Hall route (no massive VW rally today!) and down towards Daventry.
This year due to time constraints we parted at the split & I completed the 51m at good speed - managing to get up the severe Haselbach Hill at the end. This was a nasty suprise in 2009!
Michiel completed the 78m main loop at nearly 17mph! An epic ride at great speed over a hilly course (>400ft climb) Well Done mate!

Sat 23rd & Mon 25th April - Harrington loop x 2 with Finn

Luke away so out with Finn both times as he got adjusted to lightweight road bike riding....and he loved it!
1st one at 1h8m, the second time despite a brisk NE wind @ 1h6m..
..I'm sure we can get <1h in near future!

Sat 23/4/11 Bought another Race Bike for the boys!

Hunted high and low & eventually picked up a 2010 GT series 3 from Evans Cycles for £599!
Had minimum spec Aluminium frame/carbon forks/brake gear shifts & TIAGRA & above changers.
Handsome looking bike! One to go to Paris on....Note XL! My boys both >6ft!

17th April Warwicks 100k (in fact 110k)

Back from my hols early on Sat & weather looked fine so last minute decision to pop over to Warwick for the 110k ride.
Beautiful perfect cycling day - slightly chilly at first but warmed up - but still enough coolness to be comfortable.
Heading west then north I was racing long in a peloton led by a Mark Cavendish 'clone' in an HTC shirt...in fact I think it was Mark himself and we flew along in his wake.
Eventually I realised I had to slow down a bit & eased down into the tea break at Great Alne - same villlage hall as used on the MacRide last year - an interesting golfy converstion was enjoyed up to this point.
I didn't stop long & sped off & caught another peloton. Here I met Andrew who is on the same L2P route as me in July! We discussed insurance & other medical issues as we sped along.
Then came the 100m/100k split...two of us carried on, the other 18 going on the 100m!!
Quick chat with a young fella on his first ride...lunch in Long Manton and headed home.
A slight breeze had now developed, and as usual was a slight head wind (Devils breath!!)
Anyway I powered on largely on my own but overtaking a few stragglers getting back to the Racecourse (must go to a race meeting there...) in an incredible (for me) average speed of 17.2 mph! The early pace was 18mph+.
Great ride, great countryside and great to be back on lightweight sleek 'Belle' after being on the old Tractor last week!!
Looking at the map I've just realised I wasn't far from old DooGood's village of Studley! Must get over for a (road bike) ride with you & Ron sometime soon mate!
Squires & Shires next week!

Need to get the sponsorship stuff going now...if you are reading this & feel you can sponsor Luke & me we'd be eternally grateful!
Link http://www.action.org.uk/sponsor/clivetoparis2011

68.9m 3h59m @ 17.2(!)mph 3033ft climb

10-16th April Canal towpaths/locks etc

Been on the Black Country Ring! (ouch!)

Through Wolverhampton, Birmingham and back to Great Haywood past Tamworth!

Took the old tractor (10 tone Raleigh) so most mornings I was up early & heading off down the towpath or out into the nearby countryside.

Quite a few miles done (past 500m mark) at slow speed due to terrain & machine!

59m 5h41m @ 10.4mph 2578ft climb

6th April Whizzy windy ride with Michiel...Naseby & back!

Beautiful warm sunny day and brisk SW wind. Out to Harrington then along to Clipston and left to Naseby. Passing through the famous battle ground I thought ofthose that died there >350 years ago! Then on to Haselbech to descend the bastard hill (which we will climb at the end of the Squires & Shires ride in 3 weeks.) A puncture in Michiels rear wheel was quickly fixed & we continued into the wind through Brixworth, Pittsford, & Overstone. Picking up the strong tail wind we flew along the fast road at 25-30mph for mile after mile in the warm afternoon sun, past Sywell Aerodrome. It felt great not to be wrapped up against the cold..can winter be over? Arriving back in Kettering we both felt the buzz, the endorphins & serotonin was flowing...but our moths were dry so an ice cold pint was required. Appropriate polite(?) feedback was given to the dickhead in a white van who decided to stop dead outside 'Royal' Pytchley GC as we flew down into Kettering. A great ride...one of the best... 41.5m 2h44m @15.2mph 2185ft climb 2011 total - 446m 30h51m

2nd April chilly windy ride with Luke

Off we went round through Harrington Lamport & back through Old. A blustery wind made things hard but good speed with Luke's heavy bike....a road bike is needed here.
21m 1h36m @13mph 852 ft climb

27th March solo all around Thrapston...pushing out the bubble...

I'd hoped to do the Cheshire cat ride today but as Michiel &Tim were busy I thought I'd leave the Mow Cop for 2012! Decided to do 50 miles+ and push out the cycle bubble around my house. Headed S through Finedon, up through the Addingtons, Raunds, Keystone, over the A14 & on to Old Weston. Then through Winwick & Barnwell - very grey & bleak and I felt along way from home. Soon into familiar territory at Oundle, past the Golf Course and watched a glider get winched into the air, circle and land gently at Brigstock airstrip - that looks fun! Legs burning I pressed on & just managed to get the average up to 15mpg after a slow start...not bad for an old geezer of 52! Then I read about Tim/Ron's 300k (171mile!) Audax yesterday & my effort looks a bit pathetic! 50.98m 3h23 @ 15mph 2187ft climb

20th March the "no excuses..." Wiggle Series Sportive

This 'no excuses' event was so called because it cost 1p to enter! The catch is that if you don't turn up you pay £25 and the money goes to Charity. Clever promotion for the ukcyclingevents organization. There was a strong turn out & I'm sure many will enter the other events later in 2011!

I arrived at around 0845 and Luke set off with a head start. Michiel was helping in the registration tent so we got going 25 minutes later.

Out of Huntington we skirted Graffham Water & headed westward turning North for the refreshment stop in Riseley after a terrific descent. This was where we caught up with Luke who had made fantastic progress. The 18 miles home were helped by a tail wind and some nice downhill sections.

Close to home Luke passed the 40 mile barrier for the first time - WELL DONE.

44.2m 2h55m @ 15.2mph 1448ft climb

Sat 12th March ...round Corby...

Blimey round this, round that I think I'm going round the bend with this cycle malarky!
Anyway family coming up for Polly's 21st Birthday celebrations (posh tea & Whipsnade Zoo!!...her choice) and not setting off til sat am.....
So I took this window of opportunity & did the Corby circuit. Tough going in the cold air and my time at Deene was 1h04m - 4 minutes behind 'schedule' The second half was slower into the south wind but I finished strongly at good average speed. Will try to break the 2 hour barrier this summer...needs to be a nice still warm summer's morning..
34.8m 2h16m @ 15.4mph 1425ft climb TOTAL FOR 2011 now 287.1m!

6th March ...round Leicester II!

Previously I'd done this route just before Michiel broke his hip....This time Tim came along and also the route was lengthened to avoid some grotty towns just south of Leicester.
We passed a few golf courses on our journey with the half-way point being Forest HillGC!
After Fleckney we whizzed down a fantastic hill and stopped at Wistow for a coffee & huge slice of chocolate cake. The four miles back UP to Gaulby were tough, with tired legs - mind over matter stuff. Still we'd done it! A lovely ride with some big hills in the middle section past Lingdale Golf Course! Weather Chilly but only a light SE breeze...roll on Spring please!
53.43m 3h51m @ 13.9mph 3011ft climb

27th February ...round Kettering...

Managed to persuade Luke to get up early!!
Michiel came over for 0830 and we set off North, planning to circumnavigate kettering, this time taking in the Addigtons. A cold grey day, not much wind, and we made goo progress through Rothwell, down to Lamport & Finedon. At this point we headed for home as Luke's knee was hurting & he bravely made it home! Well done...his first +30 mile ride!!
30.2m 2h31m @ 12mph 1416ft climb

Snowdrop Audax 19th February 2011

Here we go again - the season starter and this time unfortunately without Tim who was at home with a nasty flu bug.
As I arrived having battled through the rain, Sehwag was hitting the first ball of the Cricket World Cup (went on to make 175!) and as I parked up Andy was spotted! I soon saw Simon in his shorts - the brave lad! Thankfully the rain stayed pretty much away but we were soon soaked & splattered with cow shit!!
Along with Simon & Andy we also met up with, but couldnt keep up with, Rob & ?Dave - mates of Tim.
I carried out my plan to miss out on the Upton cake stop, and taking a short cut to the cafe at Evesham. Last year the Upton to Evesham section took all the power from my legs. This time I had time for a decent lunch and the 28 miles back to base were enjoyable - I even managed to conquer the nasty hill 5 miles out from the finish.
A good start to 2011.....
64.8m 4h26 @14.6mph ~3000ft climb(altimeter froze!) TOTAL for 2011 - 165m

Wed 2nd February HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAM!!

Took Belle in for a service. Sure enough after 3500 miles the chain & rear sprocket are knackered, along with the middle front sprocket too.
She'll get a strip & clean & new handlebar tape (original still ripped from the July 2009 Blackpool accident!)

30th January Kettering CC

Another short Sunday morning ride as I ease my legs back into action after this neverending freezing bleeding winter!
Headed up to Brixworth & down to Islip & back via Slipton. Managed to kick on quite well for the last few miles. Belles gears a bit clunky & rear brake slightly jammed...time for a service.
Home shower, picked up Luke from Cricket training(!) & on the way back rescued Old Tom who'd had a puncture!
22m ?h?m @ 16mph

23rd January Short Kettering CC ride

Six riders met at Sainsburys. Tom & Evelyn had a lunch meeting so a shorter ride was done. Out to Geddington, up to Great Oakley, Pipewell & back via Geddington. Nice little stretch of the old legs - turning cold again BOOOOO!

20m ?h?m @ 15mph

Heard that Simon is doing coast to coast......of the USA in April. Schedule looks gruelling to say the least..respect to that man...take care & stay safe. I'm sure you'll eat & DRINK well

http://c2cmac.blogspot.com/

16th Jan second outing of 2011 blustery sprint!

Watched the end of Watson's terrific innings at Melbourne & dragged myself out on a blustery but mild day.
Legs but stiff & 'rusty' - need to get some miles in before the AUDAX on 19th Feb
Tough stretch out through Rothwell to Harrington. Stuck with 2 fellas from Broughton into the headwind to 'farpoint' Then turned for home & flew along at 22+mph down through Loddington & home.
great to be out on Belle again, and out on Belle without various appendages freezing to death!! Roll on the Spring & some longer rides...
16m 1h5m @ 15.2mph

2nd January 2011 Kettering CC outing

hello 2011!!
Decided to make the most of the break in the frosty weather
In the event only David & Norbeth(?) turned up but they dragged me along at a good rate to Islip, up to Brigstock then around Corby via Deene & straight down the A6003 home!
Chilly & no wind, the old (nearly 52!) legs got a good workout
37.1m 2h19m @ 15.9mph 1548ft climb