Fair Weather Cyclist - Cat & Fiddle update

You may have noticed that there has been no update on my Cat & Fiddle challenge ride...that's because I didn't do it.

I got up on the morning of the ride to be greeted by torrential weather conditions. It was a case of 'Hard Core or Foolhardy' & I am neither so I went back to bed....Chapeau to everyone who did take part!

What goes up - Must come down

Although nothing will replace the actual terrain of the Cat & Fiddle - for the benefit of Lee & Darren with last Saturday's ride I tried to simulate long climbs at similar gradients of the 'Cat & Fiddle' & then a couple of climbs one after another with no recovery between.

The 5-mile steady drag from home up to Horsehay was first for me - not too difficult - this was followed by the quick descent to Ironbridge via Coalbrookdale. We then climbed 6-mile from the Buildwas bridge up through Much Wenlock & up to Broseley - some respite followed with the 3-mile descent back into Ironbridge. Following the short climb out of Buildwas & the drop into Leighton we were back into a long 5-mile climb, around the south side of the Wrekin up to Little Wenlock before cresting the Wrekin & the fast descent into Wellington - this just left the short climb off the A5 into Wrockwardine before heading for home.

Although not long ride at 34 miles - with nearly 50% of it on the ascent [& some exhilarating descent] it was more than useful for Cat & Fiddle training.

Its Cat & Fiddle time!

Just registered for this years Cat & Fiddle Cycle Challenge on October 3rd - the ride is 55 miles out of Stoke thru Cheshire into the Derbyshire Peaks & back into Stoke - which includes the infamous 7 mile Cat & Fiddle climb.

As usual the ride is raising funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust & this year the the organizers are hoping to get 1500 cyclists to attend the event!

The Great Big Bike Ride Review

So we rode the Severn Hospice Great Big Bike Ride - Sue rode 30 miles & I rode 68 miles.

Sue's was accompanied by Clare & a few guys from work [Ricoh] - her morning was not without incident as Clare had a couple of spills, the second of which brought Sue to the ground as well - but with gritted teeth, bruised & blooded limbs they both finished the event.

A group photo call for Ricoh employees & friends meant a delayed start for my 68 mile ride. We eventually set off as last on the road 45 minutes later than the majority. The ride itself was as a little tougher than expected mainly due to a strong head wind - I was accompanied by my London2Paris cycling buddy Mike, Lee, Darren, Jo & Richard from work [Ricoh]. Luckily I had done most of both routes in prep for our rides so directions weren't a problem - although there were several souls that got lost along the way following the printed directions & maps issued at the start. I'm sure a few directional signs would be very welcome next year. All in all it was a reasonable event for a very worthy cause - I will post later how much our group managed to raise through sponsorship.

3 Days on my Bike

Prep miles for Sue & myself for next weekends Great Big Bike Ride.

Saturday - 15.5 miles of the 50km route - Coalport to Bridgnorth along the NCR 45 trail - this was with Sue on the Mountain Bikes.

Sunday - 35 miles - rode the last section of the 100km route from Lilleshall to Blists Hill with Lee - then from Blists Hill up thru Madeley, Dawley & down to home - last 2 miles in a torrential downpour - tired, wet but happy.

Monday - 16.5 miles - rode the Telford section of the 50km route with Sue on the mountain bikes again - Blists Hill circuit Telford back to Blists Hill.

A weekend total of 67 miles for me & Sue blazin' a trail with 32 miles!

More GBBR prep miles

Great ride today - more prep miles for the Great Big Bike Ride - Rode down into the Ironbridge Gorge then out through Buildwas - at Leighton we turned up to Garmston - a bit of a climb up the south side of the Wrekin which averages at about 6%. Continued on the GBBR route to Wrockwardine village & out to Shawbury -> Stanton upon Hind Heath -> Peplow etc etc & back to Lilleshall before spinning home through Preston-on-the-Weald Moors.

A total of 57.6 miles in great weather - a bit tired but really enjoyable - add this to the 7 miles I did with Sue on the mountain bikes yesterday at thats a weekend grand total of 64.6 miles.

Quick Sprint before Tea

Did a quick sprint before tea tonight, out to Wroxeter then back up the A5 turning to go down Charlton Hill - then along the back lanes to Wrockwardine village. From Wrockwardine I took the back lane into Wellington and out toward PRH before the sprint back home. Only 16 miles but an excellent buzz of a ride.

Not quite what was intended

Reconnaissance ride for the Severn Hospice 100km Great Big Bike Ride today, at least that was the plan when I set out. Met up with Darren at 10.00 & off we went - No Gpx download - No map & that's where it all went wrong.

I had a basic idea of the route we intended to do but its always the little detail, missing or taking the wrong turn can have a big impact on the actual ride that you end up doing & that was certainly the case today.

We ended up near Cosford Air Base??? so turned at Albrighton & headed towards Beckbury, about 10 miles off route. Never mind what else could go wrong??? We were back on track as we dropped into Coalport spinning nicley through Ironbridge we climbed out of Buildwas & at Leighton we turned up the south side of the Wrekin - immediately onto an 11% climb - this wasn't in the script - after cresting the tough 11% section the climb continued at about 5% for quite a distance before leveling out. I found out later that we turned too soon & should have gone up the Wrekin via Garmston & Rushton a max of about 6% - despite the errors a good 40+ mile ride never the less.

More prep for the 'Great Big Bike Ride'

This morning Sue & I cycled the Telford side of her 50km route for the forthcoming 'Severn Hospice Great Big Bike Ride'. Cycling from home we picked up the route at Horsehay then cycled up to Little Wenlock [a 13% Gradient], next we dropped into the Ironbridge Gorge along national cycle route 45, a great descent through Coalbrookdale. After crossing the Ironbridge we cycled route 45 all the way to Coalport before crossing the Severn & connecting to national cycle route 55 [Silkin Way]. This took us past Blists Hill [the start & finish for the GBBR] & into Telford Town Park Where we rode a small circuit around Randlay pool before riding out along West Centre Way & back home - Nice ride.

The Great Big Bike Ride III

Sue is now up & running with 1 month to go before the 'Great Big Bike Ride'. Today we cycled a 3 mile section of the 30 mile route so that she knew where she was going come the day. Starting from home & back, we actually cycled 14 miles which, was pretty good considering she hasn't been out in a while. The 1/2 energy bar eaten at 10 miles must have done some good because when we got home she immediately went out for a further 4.2 miles along the Silkin Way with Barney running behind! Well done Sue a grand total of 18.2 miles - keep it going.

The Great British Summer

You have to just love the Great British summer, went out this afternoon for a ride, just after a sharp shower had finished, roads wet but bright sunshine, nice I thought. A couple of miles in & a few rain drops hit, nothing to worry about as the sun was still shining. 12 miles in & I'm cycling through the 'Mother of all showers' wandering what the hell I'm doing. 17 miles in & the rain has stopped & the sun has come out again, glorious, now I know why I'm out cycling - I just love it.

Total ride was 32 miles at an average of 17 mph - the route part of the northern section of the 'Great Big Bike Ride' event on September 5th, so doubled as a bit of reconnaissance.

The Great Big Bike Ride II

Mike & Clare are in training & will be doing the the Great Big Bike ride with Sue & myself on September 5th.

I've managed to rope in a few from work for both the 30 & 60 mile events - to date: Lee, Darren, Mick, Nathan, Graham, & Shaun have definitely registered, whilst several others [Dave, Jo, Richard, Chris, Andy, Steve, Kev & Stu] have registered their intent - they just need a little more persuasion.

Mick, Graham & Kev have recently purchased new bikes - things are getting serious on the 30 mile event.

The Great Big Bike Ride

OK its not quite as big as it sounds, but Sue & I have registered to do this years 'Great Big Bike Ride' around Telford to raise funds for the Severn Hospice. Sue will be doing the 50-km event whilst I will be doing to 100-km event, both events start at the Blist Hill Museum on Sunday September 5th 2010.

The 50km event then follows cycle path towards Telford Town Centre & on to Horsehay climbing up to Little Wenlock, - before the run down into Ironbridge via Coalbrookdale.. Continuing on through Jackfield Sue will follow the old severn valley railway to Bridgnorth & with a quick about turn back along the same pathway to Coalport before finishing back at Blist Hill.

The 100km event runs out of Ironbridge & Buildwas before climbing around the Wrekin, after a brief stop at the Severn Hospice Telford we continuing out towards Shawbury, passing several outlying villages before coming back through Edgmond. A small climb over Lilleshall then heads towards Sherrifhales & the villages of Grindle & Brockton, before returning to Blists Hill via Coalport.

We are hopefully being joined by friends Mike & Clare who will be doing the 100 & 50-km events as well.

Look out for more updates as the event gets nearer.

Great ride today!

Did a great ride today, from home had the steady climb to Horsehay before meeting Lee in Dawley, we then descended into Ironbridge via Lightmoor, Cherry Tree Hill & Coalbrookdale. Passed through Ironbridge & then had the tough drag of a climb up & out of Broseley following the undulating back road to Bridgnorth - great countryside views.

We climbed out of Low town B'north up Hermitage hill on the Wolverhamton road - tough at better than 12% - but once off the main road we had a steady spin around the country lanes of Beckbury, Grindle Forge etc before riding through the back end of Shifnal to Sherrifhales & finally heading for home via Preston on the Weald Moors. A grand total of 49.2 miles - most enjoyable - although I was a more than bit tired at the end.

Amazing Time at the Tour [3] The Contador moment

My Contador moment - mixing with the maillot jaune - that's if you can count nearly being run over by Alberto Contador as mixing with the maillot jaune!

Amazing Time at the Tour [2] continued

The souvenirs.......Bjarne Riis.....Andy Schlek ....[that's me in the grey T-Shirt]

Amazing Time at the Tour [2]

Check this out - post race, whilst walking back up the Champs Elysee towards the media frenzy - we were confronted by none other that Tour runner-up Andy Schlek - as he made his way through the crowds. Quick as a flash I asked him for an autograph, he duly obliged by signing the front of my "Vive Le Tour" book - In order for him to hold the pen & make his mark he handed me his champagne glass - before riding off down the Champs Elysee - how good is that!

Then as if that wasn't enough, I turned to be faced by Bjarne Riis [team directeur] of Team Saxo Bank - quick on the draw with the pen once again - Bjarne also signed the cover of my "Vive Le Tour" book. [Riis won the Tour de France back in 1996]

Sue was on hand with the camera & I will post a couple of photos very soon.

Amazing Time at the Tour [1]

Just got back from Paris & the Grande Finale of the Tour de France - A-MAZ-ING!. Here's a quick summary -

Alberto Contador did what the cycling world expected & won the maillot jaune.

The Manx Missile [Mark Cavendish] ripped the field & tore up the Champs Elysee cobbles to win the stage for the second year running - there really is no one faster at the minute with or without a team lead out - just pipped for the green jersey by 36 year old Alessandro Pettachi.

The french also had their day with Anthony Charteau winning Polka dot jersey [KoM] & Sylvan Chavanel winning most combative rider.

Andy Schlek 'the great white hope' finished runner-up for the 2nd year in a row & wore the white jersey of best young rider.

Dennis Menchov was third on the poduim

Tour de France - Grande Finale in style

Today we are off to Paris to for a bit of sightseeing & more importantly our Grandstand seats on the Champs Eleysee to see the Tour de France Grand Finale. This will be the third time that we have been to see the finish of the tour.

In 2004 Sue & I cycle a bit of the Alps & watched the time trials at Alpe d'Huez & Briancon before watching the finale on a baking hot day & a with a poor view with the masses on the barriers of the Champs Eleysee [which were 10 deep in places], was a bit of an anti-climax despite all the excitement of the day.

Then last year I cycled from London 2 Paris with Mike for charity & just as the Tour caravan hit the Champs Eleysee we had to leave to catch our Euro-Star train back to London, Sue & Clare also had to leave earlier to catch their flights, all in all major disappointment after a great charity bike ride.

So this year Sue, Mike, Clare & myself are back in style & doing it right with the Grandstand seats - fantastic - we are all so excited - its trains all the way today from Crewe to Euston then St Pancras Euro-Star to Gard de Nord Paris.

Finally...new rubber fitted

Finally...after three weeks & admitting that I got it wrong I fitted my continental GP4000S rubber - all black with chilli compound & silver logos t'boot - most excellent. Did a 48 mile ride out to Prees Heath & back yesterday very good ride apart from the last leg down the A442 from Crudgington - very busy traffic into a strong head wind, the new rubber was excellent, very comfortable & yes the final compliment to my black bar tape & carbon [effect] plugs.

Back to the bit I got wrong & the reason for the delay in using said rubber...? on delivery I noticed what appeared to be a defect - 2 holes in the outer layer - so I complained, as you do...unknown to me & quickly pointed out by the supplier they are actually tyre wear indicators, a quick check on Continentals website confirmed the fact [that I was indeed a numpty].

Video Bar

Having trouble with the video bar - so I've taken it off line for now

The Wyre Forest Stinger [Thumbs Up]

Apparently, official photos from the event are still in progress, but here's one of me taken by one of the event organisation helpers. This was obviously before my bout of cramp & the infamous Stinger section as I have the energy to ride one handed & give the thumbs up to the camera!

27+40=67

Managed to do two reasonable rides this last weekend with 27 miles on Saturday, a nice spin out to Haughmond hill down & around Wroxeter Vineyards & then climbing up around the Wrekin before passing through Wellington & home.

Sunday, I did my Wheaton Aston ride but in reverse, its amazing how different the ride is from the opposite perspective, although its still 40 miles which ever way you do it? So there you have it 27+40=67

Official Stinger Timing

Official mini-stinger times have now been released - my official time was 5 hrs 33 min 41 sec compared to my unofficial Garmin time of 5 hr 32 min 46 sec - the difference probably down to the waiting to scan my barcode at the finish - splitting hairs really!

My placing was 35th out of 72 riders so pretty much bang in the middle - also 3 riders DNF & a further 9 DNS - so despite my grumbling of not enjoying the day too much - I am quite pleased with the 35th place.

Other mini-stinger info:

Only two riders managed Gold & 8 who managed Silver

Fastest time was 4 hr 01 min 45 sec

Slowest 8 hr 06 min 04 sec

Mini-Stinger Summary

So I've been there & done it - here's a quick summary of my 'Wyre Forest Stinger' experience

1. Did I enjoy it? - No not really

2. Would I do it again? - No definitely not

3. Would I recommend it? - Yes if you weigh in at 9 stone, are part mountain goat & ride a bike with an engine.

4. Mini Stinger or Full Stinger? - see answer to question 3

Thank God I only registered on the Mini-Stinger - maybe I'm being a bit harsh due to my own personal failings.

Look, I know I'm not the lightest rider in the peleton & I'm certainly not the youngest - I can now hold my hand up & admit that this was one ride & climb to many for me...actually several climbs too many.

Sportives are meant to be a challenge & I'm certainly not put off by the experience on the Stinger in fact it makes me more determined to improve & I am already looking for the next one - stay tuned.

The Recovery

Section Three: "The Stinger section has now ended" this was the dayglo sign which signaled the end of the days climbing, pain & suffering. The last 10 miles or so where on rolling roads & I think I made some sort of minor recovery on this section as the cramping in my thighs subsided enough not to trouble me, I actually picked up a good pedaling cadence & speed and finished quite strongly.

I had a very close call on the run in through Stourport-on-Severn where I got cut up by a Vauxhall Astra who cut across my front wheel narrowly missing me by about 3 inches. I didn't realise that shouting abuse at the top of your voice [F****** W*****] could get so much attention on a busy high street, as every man & his dog stopped momentarily - The driver continued on totally unaware at how close he had come to knocking me down.

Finally I reached the Stourport Sports Centre in a time of 5 hours 32 minutes [by my Garmin] this has to be confirmed by the organisers timing chips & should be posted on their web page within 48 hours. This was a full 1 hour outside the target time to get Gold award - but all things considered even at my best I would have struggled to get anywhere near it on this route.

Stung!

The Stinger Section 2: Continuing from the first feed stop the road had a steady incline & in the distance I could see the terrain that had housed the infamous stinger section hidden between the hills & valleys. The scenery after cresting the top of Clows Top was beautiful to say the least, its a pity that this would be the last I would really notice as I spent the rest of this middle section with my head down staring at the tarmac. As I entered the Stinger section I wasn't prepared for what was to come as lung busting climb was followed by deathly descent with no time for recovery in between - 20% - 12% - 15% in quick succession.

It was about now, after these opening three climbs of the stinger, I suffered horrendous cramps in both quad muscles & was reduced to a quivering wreck on the road side for more than 5 minutes - in excruciating pain. This was the end of my day, as every-time the road went up, the cramps came back.

To make matters worse I still had 10% - 17% - 17% & 15% climbs to face and in between each climb a very dangerous twisting descents of similar gradient, on very poor road surfaces. End result was that on anything more than 10% I had to get off and walk the climbs. Finally got to the second feed station for very much needed refreshment.

The refreshment didn't really help much as I still had to negotiate 25% - 22% & 17% climbs. The elderly gent pruning his roses on Winniats 25% was a real bundle of laughs as I pushed by bike wearily up hill he chuckled 'You haven't reach the steep bit yet'.

The Stinger

Got a bit to tell from todays Sportive 'The Wyre Forest Stinger' so I will break it down into three posts - If I may.

Section 1: Arrived early at the Stourport Sports Centre - good sign on & friendly greeting, not too many riders though which was a little disappointing I noted only 112 last night on the internet. Maybe the negative forum comments from last years ride had taken its toll, we would see. Ride off was at 9.00 for the mini-stinger, we actually set off at about 5 past 9, everything began well and we were soon through the first 50 Km - a good early pace despite a very blustery wind which was intent on buffeting us for the whole ride. The first feed station was welcome with a decent spread of cakes sandwiches fruit & the like - So far so good!

Phew! Close One

Got the Pinarello back late Friday afternoon, gave it the once over & it all seems well, the new headset bearings are really smooth and a new cable has sorted out the gearing issues I've been having of late. The black Pinarello bar tape gives it a new fresh look & feels good t'boot.

Only thing missing are my new Continental GP4000S tyres - why are they missing I hear you ask? Well I started to fit them on Friday and noticed a flaw, what appears to be two holes or air bubbles which penetrate the tyre surface, so I have to send them back - they would really have been the finishing touch with the black bar tape. So, all ready for the Wyre Forest Stinger in the morning - hope the legs carry me to my 4 hr 30 minute target & Gold certificate.

Sweating on the Pinarello

Had a phone call from Parkers today - bad news - minor problem with the headset bearings for my Pinarello - they have promised to get it done for Friday - lets hope they make the deadline or I might have to ride the Wyre Forset Sportive on Sue's Monoc. Not that the Monoc is a bad bike, [it used to be mine prior to the Pinarello], but it has been set up for Sue to ride & would require several adjustments - not best prep - fingers crossed for Parkers.

On the plus side the gearing has been 'tweeked' and my new black bar tape has been fitted - I will fit the new continental rubber on Friday evening all being well!

Something for the Weekend, Sir?

My trusty Pinarello is in for a bit of a service this week in time for the 'The Wyre Forest Stinger' sportive.

I'm having new headset bearings fitted as my bars have been stiffening over the past couple of weekends & my gearing is being tweeked to iron out the missed gears I've been experiencing lately.

And just to spruce it up - new black pinarello bar tape to go with the Carbon [effect] bar plugs I purchased last week, my ride will be shod with new rubber as I also have a pair of Continental GP4000 S tyres [with black chilli compound] waiting to finish it off nicely.

New Boots & Panties

Not quite, but a new crash helmet qualifies all the same, finally got my new lid and took it for a test ride today, I am now in possession of a Giro Ionos in Black & Carbon, very nice! - not only does it look good but the Ionos was also extremely comfortable and should be for the arm & leg that its cost, still buy cheap, buy twice, thats my motto!

So kitted out & looking resplendent in my new crash helmet I was out early doors today to beat the heat from this blistering weather we are having, joined by Darren from work, we did a near 50 mile ride out back of Newport to Tern Hill before rounding back towards Waters Upton & High Ercall a great ride on relatively flat terrain suitable for anyone really with a desire for some distance/endurance type training to do.

A-Ma-Zing

If you haven't already seen this you MUST watch this amazing piece of bike handling - on a road ride!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5z1fSpZNXhU&feature=youtu.be&a

Billy No Mates

It was a case of 'Billy No Mate's' this weekend as I forgot to arrange a Sunday outing with the lads from work. Anyway I did manage to do a 40 miler, another combo ride mainly on a mix of A&B roads. As last weekend riding up to Broseley & on to Wenlock, but this time taking the Shrewsbury road & dropping into Harley - the 12% descent at 45 mph was awesome - I was in danger of overtaking cars at one point which is risky on skinny rubber. Continued to Shrewsbury along the Cressage road which is pretty straight & boring before turning for home through Atcham, Uffington & over Haughmond hill. A decent enough outing with the Wyre Forest sportive on the horizon - but I need to plan more miles before the stinger in 2 weeks time - hopefully a double ride next weekend, it would be rue not too with this weather and all.

Miles Better

Good weekend for cycling - just as planned for a change. Saturday was a 37.5 mile combo route [2 previous rides mixed together]. From home I climbed up to Horsehay before dropping down into Ironbridge via Jiggers Bank, followed by a stiff 2 1/2 mile climb up to Broseley & out through Wiley & Barrow before a speedy descent into Much Wenlock, but that was nothing to the descent from Farley down into Sheinton & Cressage...Wow! - I'm gald I was going down it & not cycling up it [maybe one day]. Once into Cressage I picked up my Acton Burnell route riding along some glorious undulating lanes before finishing with the 6 mile flat sprint home along the A5 etc.

Sunday I was joined by Darren & Lee for a 54 mile route out to Worfield & Albrighton - this is the route I had planned to do last week which was cut short by my Garmin battery failure and me not knowing the exact route. But today was different and this is an excellent undulating ride with several climbs - nothing too steep but enough to drain the legs. 1 small issue was that the Cosford Air Show was in full swing and the lanes were a wash with cars & people having picnics - so we had very few places for a p**s stop?

Wyre Forest Stinger Sportive 'Link'

Here is a link to the Wyre Forest Stinger Sportive - on the Cyclosport website

http://www.cyclosport.org/eventdetails.aspx?id=486&eventid=1013

And a direct link to the Stinger which is organised by the Wyre Forest Cycle Racing Club

http://www.wyreforeststinger.co.uk

Registered for Sportive No3

Just registered for my third sportive of the season - Wyre Forest Stinger [mini] - 113 km starting in Stourport-on-Severn and meandering around the surrounding lanes & hills. I think the sting comes in the latter section of the ride judging by the profile.

I have a target time, for my age category, [no laughing] for Gold medal I have to finish in under 4 hours 30 minutes.

Must remember to turn on the Power in future?

Intended to do a new route of 54 miles out to Worfield yesterday...hhhmmm. Relied on the Garmin to navigate the new route but my Garmin battery power gave out after about 6.5 miles - thought I knew where I was going - didn't - made a few wrong turns & ended up doing a shorter ride of 41.5 miles.

Must turn the power on when charging the Garmin in future?

To top it off when I was cleaning my crash helmet I noticed the shell was cracked at the front - this now means I have to buy a new helmet before I can ride again.

Time to set a target

Set a target of getting home in under 2 hours on my 37 mile route out around Wistanswick [Nr Hodnet] - I averaged over 18.5 mph and returned home in 1 hr 58 min - target achieved!

OK I might not be within the realms of Fabian Cancellara for my time trialing ability but I was pretty stoked to have maintained that average speed.

Just a Quickie!

Having spent Saturday traipsing around Birmingham shopping I wasn't in the best frame of mind to go any great distance today. I hadn't actually planned to go out at all but couldn't resist the fantastic weather. With no route in mind I just set off and cobbled together a few bits from my local rides to make a new circuit - Enjoyed the short but sweet 27 miles in blistering sunshine.

Earlier in the week I managed to get Sue back out on her bike for a 10 miler around the lanes towards Roddington - wonder's will never cease - she actually enjoyed it and didn't suffer anywhere near as much she expected - more will follow no doubt?

Gold, Silver or Bronze?

Was my result at the Midlands Monster Gold Silver or Bronze? I have been trying to find how these awards are calculated at various sportive events. Well apparently there is NO definite way & it is generally decided by the organisers of the event - I did get a bit of feed back on a cycling forum to try using the following calculation - 1st 10% of finishers = Gold, the next 33% of finishers = Silver, with the remaining entrants taking Bronze status. There are a few other factors to consider, like the terrain & the age of the cyclist - but then its starts to get messy.

Here's how I faired for the 73 mile Midlands Monster -

1. Of 153 entrants I finished in 75th place with a time of 04:52:54

2. By contrast the fastest finishing time for my event was 59 minutes quicker at 03:53:34

3. Whilst the slowest finisher was 2.5 hours back on my time at 07:26:03

4. Working on the % basis my time rated me a Bronze medal, missing Silver by 8 minutes.

All in all I am happy with my time & I will continue to use the % calculation until I find something more concrete - I now aIso have an official event time as a target to bench mark against.

Photo courtesy of George Burgess Photography - Event photographer

The Midlands Monster

My 2nd Sportive of the season was a much better affair all round than my 1st outing! The location was superb, the Rolliston Forestry Centre was a perfect base for the event - great facilities - great sign on very smooth & free energy bar/gels to start the day. Set of about 8.25 am - good pace as we settled into a bunch of about 20 riders for the opening 10 miles of so. The 1st climb of the day sorted a few riders out straight away and was only a hint of what was too come, the main climb of the day was tough & relentless with each turn the road continued to climb until we reached the village of Stanton & a very welcome feed station - well stocked with cake, fruit, energy gels & drinks.

After 10 minutes respite we where on our way again & the road continued to ascend the lower peaks of Derbyshire - we finally crested the top riding across a short stretch of exposed high road where the wind fair ripped into you making the going extremely tough. After a couple of exhilarating descents at 45 mph we arrived into the town of Ashbourne, missing out the final feed station [for 103 milers] we rode on & it was here we encountered a brutal short climb - a real lung buster - too our credit we all beat this climb but it took its toll on many others as they resorted to the walk of shame [dismounting]. I lost Lee & Darren after this climb as Darren tired & they fell back - I pushed on for the final 25 miles over fantastic rolling country lanes finally catching a group of 4 riders who I used as pacemakers to get me to the finish. Back at the Rolliston Forestry Centre I recorded a respectable time of 04:52:54 getting beneath my personal 5 hour target [Lee & Darren came in 20 minutes later]. Free pasta at the Cafe & a certificate recording my time for the event rounding off an excellent day. 'Highly Recommended Event'

Monster Ride

Not that today's ride was a monster it was just prep for Sunday's Midland Monster Sportive. Haven't done any commuting as planned this week - decide to do a hilly ride down into Ironbridge Gorge this afternoon to make up for it. Only 22 miles but the hills make up for shorter distance and it was good prep for the Monster.

I've mapped the Monster route for my Garmin 705 - got my energy drink & bars ready - just need to give the bike a clean & I'm primed & ready to go. Weather forecast doesn't look too healthy at the minute [Heavy Showers] we will have to wait & see what Sunday brings?

I know I said I wouldn't?

I know I said I wouldn't be riding this weekend having twisted my back earlier in the week but the pain had subsided & I'd done my chores this morning & a bit of shopping so I decided to give it a go before the big match this afternoon. Nothing too taxing or strenuous a loop I used several time last year when training for the London to Paris event. 36 miles on A&B roads riding out to Newport - coming back along the Shrewsbury/Crudgington road I turned out at High Ercall past through Roden & over Haughmond hill before finally heading for home along the old A5. Great weather for cycling - sunshine but not too warm - shorts & short sleeves for the first time this year!

To round off the day Chelsea are Premier League Champions - I'd have settled for 1-0 when the title is as stake but winning 8-0 was just icing on the cake.

Zero! Zip! Zilch!

Zero - Zip - Zilch - that's how many miles have done this week - not good prep with the Midlands Monster on the horizon? I managed to twist my back on Wednesday afternoon whilst at work, so I have been in a bit of discomfort leading up to the weekend. It has started to ease off during today [Saturday] but rather than tempt fate I don't think I will be riding on Sunday either.

I will try & get a couple of short evening rides in during the week & possibly go out Friday afternoon & Saturday morning for short rides of 30 miles or so to turn the legs over.

I need a new pair of tubs for the bike - noticed a few tiny splits appearing & dug out a couple of pieces of flint - the last thing I need on the Monster is to blow a tyre? Considering Michelin ProRace3 [maybe 2's as thats what I ride at the minute] or Continental GP4000 - decisions, decisions?

No Commute but still managed a weekend 50

Commute came to a halt this week, too much work & crap weather, well that my excuse, maybe I'm just being lazy?

Anyway, I did cycle to work Saturday morning & then do a 50+ mile ride out to Prees Heath Nr Whitchurch mainly along excellent traffic free lanes, we were doing a good pace up to the 40 mile mark - then Darren pulled up with a tight hamstring - so the last 10 miles from Shawbury where a bit steadier but 3 hours 20 minutes was still OK. There is the odd section [couple of miles actually] of busy A&B road when you have to dice it with the traffic - just keep your wits about you! As a bonus we managed to dodge any of the forecasted rain showers - all in all a really enjoyable ride.

Weekend Double

2 rides completed this weekend - Saturday was a 50 mile round trip out to Cheswardine & Norbury Junction, Mike came down from Nantwich to Join us - great route, great weather really enjoyable.

Sunday was a new 55 mile route up to Ellesmere & back - this route has been remapped from last year - sticking to as many country lanes as possible. Ended up doing 59.4 miles in total after a minor detour when my GPS lost satellite signal?? Fantastic route on fast sweeping lanes - tough 15 % climb a mile or so out of Ellesmere on the return but thankfully not too long.

A couple of points to mention are the rail crossing at Wem, the road is marked as 'No Through Road' but carry on to the Rail Crossing which is a foot crossing to continue. Then there is a rather over zealous dog at the village 'Hundred Steps' thankfully behind a tall gate but he was very close to jumping over.

Mixed bag on the weather front - started in good sunshine - rained at Ellesmere [time for tea at the Cafe] & for 15 minuyes or so after tea stop - then back to warm sunshine with the odd rain spot here & there.

So that means a total of 110 miles this weekend - the legs & lungs in good order - no sign of the cramps that blighted my sportive ride last Month at Jodrell bank - encouraging for the Midlands Monster in a fortnight.

Daily Commute

My daily commute to work has restarted, if you can call 7 miles each way a commute?

Mondays are rest days after weekend rides, rode Tuesday Wednesday & today Thursday, tomorrow will be another rest day prior to two weekend rides - the weekly mileage has now started to creep up towards the 150+ mark. Despite it being a bit chilly early doors I've really enjoyed getting out early & finishing early to beat a bit of traffic is quite good as well.

Training for Midlands Monster

With my New York birthday trip out of the way it's time to ramp up the training for the Midlands Monster Sportive next month. Over the next 4 weekends I am planning to ride Saturdays & Sundays gradually increasing the mileage by 5-10 miles with commutes to work thrown in for good measure. So, Saturday was a easy ride around country lanes up to Wistanswick [Nr Hodnet] I had changed the route slightly to make it 36 miles, only to find that a small section I had added was more accustomed to mountain bikes than road bikes - the tarmac disintegrating into gravel & pots holes deep enough to swallow you whole, we then found ourselves in the middle of a farm yard, passed morning pleasantries with the surprised farmer before continuing on our route. I think a minor change to the GPS route will make this a very pleasant ride.

Sunday's was a 42 mile ride out & back to Montford Bridge [Nr Shrewsbury] but once again having change dthe route slightly we found our selves on a country lanes marked 'Not suitable for Motor vehicles' - how bad could it be? Could it bad as bad as yesterday? hhhmmm. Well it didn't have as much gravel & the pot holes weren't quite as big but my GPS route will be having another tweak as this section wasn't really suitable for road bikes.

Never the less I enjoyed both rides & the weekend weather has been fantastic - also on that note & the dry weather I finally got to break out my new Sidi shoes - most excellent.

Central Park Bike Tours

You'll never guess where I was cycling last Saturday [or maybe you will from the title] - Central Park New York USA.

We were on holiday for a milestone birthday [50 keep it to yourself]. It was only a 6 mile guided / recreational ride around Central Park but it was a great way to see the sights & Joel our guide for the afternoon was a wealth of knowledge & entertainment [American history & films]. Here's a link to the route

http://www.mapmyride.com/route/us/ny/new%20york/803127118824468552

Sportive Training Plan

We have 7 weeks until the Midlands Monster & I have now compiled a training plan for the Sunday morning lads [and myself] to increase general mileage & fitness capability. I have used a combination of last years routes, our Sunday outings & a couple of new ride to gradually increase the distance.

Plans are for Saturday & Sunday rides [as available] with the odd evening sprint thrown in for good measure. We should also include as much cycling / commute to work as possible just to add to the overall mileage.

Outdoor Show Saturday - Bike Ride Sunday

Went to the Outdoor show on Saturday [Birmingham NEC] - I had originally thought about doing the Outdoor Show Sportive on Sunday [100 miles around south B'Ham] but that had long since been a distant memory. So we decided to attend the show anyway - loads of interesting stuff from Hiking, Biking, Street boarding & Rock Climbing & loads of stuff in between.

Sunday was a ride around Telford via the outskirts of Shifnal & Kemberton before dropping into the Ironbridge Gorge on a 12% descent at Coalport & climbing back out via Buildwas [fantastic view of the River Severn S-Bends - just enough testy hills to raise a sweat on this ride - ended up doing 35 miles in brilliant spring sunshine - Lovely.

I have to devise a training plan this weekend to get the Sunday morning lads [& myself] up to doing an 80 mile sportive "Comfortably". I will probably use the routes & training from last years London to Paris event as a basis.

Out Twice again this weekend

Managed to do a couple of decent rides this weekend - Friday afternoon was a short 20 mile sprint out to Upton Magna along the the south side of the Wrekin with a 5% average climb for about 3 miles - good ascent training - drop back down into Wellington before finishing with an short 11% climb back into Wrockwardine & then home.

Saturday was abit of a wash out with the persistent rain but the sunshine was back today so I did a 40+ miler with Lee & Darren, out to Church Eaton & around Weston Park - this ride has a few medium hills nothing greater than 6% but still a bit testy if you keep a good tempo.

Whoops

Guess who registered on the wrong sportive for the Midlands Monster? - yep, you guessed it "Me"

I somehow managed to register on the 103 mile route instead of the 73 mile route - a quick email to the organisers will hopefully have me switched onto the shorter event.

Sportive Bike Ride No.2

Despite a serious muscle cramp issue during the Jodrell Bank event I enjoyed the experience & it has not put me off doing another Sportive - Mike, Lee & Darren also enjoyed the Jodrell & hopefully they will be joining me again as I have now entered my second sportive bike ride.

The Midlands Monster starts at Rolliston Forestry Centre near Burton on Trent in Derbyshire - I have registered for the 73 mile event which is a loop in & around the Lower Peaks.

You can find out more about the Midlands Monster on the attached link.

www.cyclosport.org/eventdetails.aspx?eventid=2215

Jodrell Bank Sportive Completed

Here's how the Jodrell Bank sportive panned out - up at 5.00 am packed the car - met Lee & Darren at 6.00 am - arrived at Woodford Community Centre met Mike & Alan & registered at 7.55 am - queued for the loo for 25 minutes [not good] - eventually on the road at approx 8.40 am.

Made good speed early doors along very pleasant country lanes - got tagged for time at approx 37 miles [end of 30 mile loop] the guy sat by the road side said "its not far to the feed station" - 10 miles on & we eventually arrived [tagged for time again at this stop?]. Unbelievable that the first feed stop is at 47 miles - felt this has a bit too far & it should have been a bit earlier [at the first time tag would have been about right]. Another gripe was that the 50 mile riders had also passed thru this feed station like a plague of locust & stripped it of any food worth mentioning. We continue on & my GPS indicates a projected finish of 4 hours 50 minutes with our current Av speed nearly 17 mph. Thats when the trouble started - at 60 miles I start suffering with cramp in my right quad [upper thigh] - not good - as this is where the hills start - any extra excursion brings on the cramp. This soon spreads into my left quads as well & I am forces off my bike to carry out road side stretches. With the 5 hour target now fading fast I decide the last 20 miles will be a limp to the finish. The last feed station was empty at 67 miles having feed the 30, 50 & 80 mile riders. I am forces off the bike a further 4 times to stretch my quads eventually arriving back at Woodford after 5 hours 48 minutes. Yes I am disappointed with the time but glad to have finished [didnt want a DNF on my 1st sportive]. To add insult to injury there was no food left at the finish either.

So in summary - the toilets were crap - there was NO food available during or after the ride - I suffered with cramp in my quads for the first time ever but I still enjoyed the route which was well marked out & the GPS download was spot on.

Jodrell Bank Sportive Ride - Cheshire

Just one week to go until my first challenge ride of the year - the Jodrell Bank Sportive - 80 miles around the Cheshire countryside. Over 530 entrees to date with 306 on the 80 miler - 171 on the 50 miler & 55 on the 30 miler - people attending from all over the country - making for a good crowd.

It will be an early start next Sunday, so need to prep everything on Saturday, we will be leaving Telford 6.30 am, hopefully arrive for 8.00 am, meet up with Mike & the others, register & be off by 8.30 am.

Garmin Edge 705 Testing

2 rides again this weekend [so far] - Friday afternoon went for a spin in the lanes outback of Admaston towards Haughmond Hill - only 27 miles but a good ride. Today, Saturday I've been out with Lee & Darren for a spin to Eccleshall & back, country lanes with the odd A&B road, 40 hilly miles & at a good tempo - again a good ride.

If you recall I had been having a few problems with my Garmin 705 GPS - both of this weekends routes had been mapped on www.ridewithgps.com & downloaded to my Garmin for further testing - I'm happy to report that everything worked well - with good route map & turn by turn instruction as it says on the tin.

2 rides in 1 weekend!

Blimey! I can't believe it - 2 rides in one weekend - I was certainly going to take my opportunity with the break in the winter weather, nothing too long in distance just a couple of short testy rides.

Saturday was a hilly 20 miles around the south side of the Wrekin, quite hilly & if you choose to go downhill at any point, you know you have to cycle back up.

Sunday was a little flatter with a 25 mile circuit out to Newport & back along the Crudgington Road - very strong head winds made for difficult conditions - pushed hard into the head wind so good resistance training for the legs.

Both outings were good leg training considering my lack of recent activity

Nil Miles

Didn't plan a group ride with the lads from work this weekend been too busy at work & missed the lads Friday Lunch time. So the plan was to do a solo to test the Garmin on a longer ride now I've sorted the GPX files.

Got into doing a few chores around the house on Saturday & missed the best of the weekend weather - woke Sunday morning to a blanket of snow & by the time it had cleared I was back into doing chores again, never mind at least I can get into the shed & garage now. The next couple of weekends need to be good rides in prep for the Jodrell Bank sportive on 14th March.

Garmin GPX

It appears there are two types of GPX files...[1] GPX route...[2] GPX track. I currently use Ride with GPS to map my routes with automatically generates both GPX files. I have been downloading "GPX route" with all but 3 of my rides, this explains why it has been fine on some rides & telling me I've arrived before I've left on others?

Another point to note is that the file size is also significantly larger for the "GPX track" 64k as opposed to 16k. I tested this on my commute to work last Friday & it was fine - happy days - now I need to test on a much longer ride.

ALL "GPX route" files have now been deleted & updated with "GPX track" files - Just a note on deleting files - after deleting files from the 705 unit into the trash bin make sure you empty the trash bin before next connecting your 705 or they will automatically reload onto your unit.

What could possibly go wrong?

Got the Garmin, got a map for back up, so what could possibly go wrong? Where to begin....the Garmin failed to load my gpx correctly so was saying I'd arrived before I'd even left?..no matter plan B "the map" - 20 miles in to our planned 44 mile ride out to Minsterley, we miss a turn in Pulverbatch & end up doing a bit of cyclo-cross before getting back on the tarmac. Then end up going 12 miles in the wrong direction - yep, that means 12 to get back on course so a total of 24 extra miles. By now the feet have started to freeze up & one of the lads is suffering badly with a distinct lack of energy, so even minor ascents turn into major cols.

Bloody hell, were still 19.5 miles from Shrewsbury + another 13 to get home. I eventually part company with the others on the A5 as they head to Wellington & I turn towards Admaston - 5.5 hours & 68 miles later I eventually get home - cold, tired, hungry & in the dog house.....

Here's the link to our ride today

http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-kingdom/wrockwardine/770126617589651833

The Weather Breaks [for now]

Finally a bit of decent weather, little bit cold but nothing to stop you getting the bike out. The numbers were a bit sparse this morning for our planned ride out around Cheswardine - I know a couple of the regulars were unavailable but only two of us turned up for the off. No matter - we still had a reasonable outing - approx. - 35 miles.

According to forecasts the weather will be back with a vengeance next week - with minus 12 temperature & more snow on the horizon.

Wrekinsport Reliability White-Out

As if the forecast of overnight minus temperatures & frost wasn't enough, we awoke this morning to find a blanket of snow covering everything. Early text to the Sunday lads to confirm my DNS status for the planned 53 mile Wrekinsport CC reliability, only the downright crazy will be attempting the roads this morning. So, it was a long walk with the dogs to fetch a newspaper instead.

2 rides are better than 1

Out for a double whammy of miles this weekend - did a hilly 27 around the Ironbridge Gorge & Wrekin on Saturday - I thought I seen all the lanes on the south of the Wrekin but I manage to find one I hadnt been on before with a good climb - which starts at 3% & ends up at 10% over approx. 1/2 mile distance - nice.

Sunday was an afternoon outing to Montford Bridge which was just shy of 40 miles - again a couple of climbs of 7%, 8% & 9.5% not too long but all good training - got home just before the downpour - most excellent.

Another Challenge [Reliability] Ride

Another challenge ride on the horizon just happens to be in my backyard - Wrekinsport Cycle club - are organizing a 53 mile Reliability ride from Roddington out to Mk Drayton, Audlem, Whitchurch, Wem, Shawbury & back to base. This takes place on Sunday 31/01/2010 - no entry fee from what I gather, just turn up & join in, so I can use this as a good training exercise & cycle with a reasonably paced group - log onto www.wrekinsport.co.uk/ for more details.

1st Sportive Challenge of 2010

Finally got around to registering on my 1st sportive challenge of 2010 - I am doing the Jodrell Bank Sportive - 80 miles around the Cheshire countryside. Looks a well organized event with timing tags on the bikes, feed stations etc so I am looking forward to taking part. My L2P buddy Mike is also planning to register & I know that Lee & Darren from Sunday morning rides are also considering - a few friends along the way will make the miles fizz by - log onto the link to find out detailed info.

www.cyclosport.org/eventdetails.aspx?eventid=2419

Starting over

Finally managed to get out on the bike on Sunday & a few weeks of inactivity it felt like starting over again - so I planned to do a steady 30 miler out to Wistanswick & back on easy country lanes, or so was the plan. After sliding off on black ice & banging my hip quite heavily I decided to cut short & ended up doing 26 miles.

I did have the route mapped on my Edge 705 but didnt use it as we rode in reverse direction but I did use the cadence & heart rate monitor.

Sunday's Cycle Sale

Made a few purchases at the Cycle Sale in Wolverhampton, although the one thing I really wanted I could get - brake blocks. I did however buy a new pair of winter bib tights & a long sleeve mid-weight jersey - very reasonable. Also bought some GT85 lube & got a couple of muc-off spray's to keep the Pinarello nice & shiny. Sue was also in the buying mode & purchased a mid-weight long sleeve top & a new Altura waterproof again very reasonable. All-in-all the sale was OK & pretty busy.

Snow Go

It's no go at the minute with all the snow & freezing condition - Sunday rides have been albeit postponed until further notice. The fancy new Garmin is gathering dust & my new bike cleaning brushes are still in the bag. I have managed to read through Lance Armstrong's "My Comeback Up Close & Personal" I had as a Christmas present - very good [If you like Armstrong - & I do].

I am attending the "One Day Cycle Sale" in Wolverhampton on Sunday - hopefully I can pick up some new brake blocks, GT85 lube & maybe a few other goodies.

I have to seriously pull my finger out & start registering for a few Sportives as per my plan pre-Christmas - or I am going to miss out on the events I have earmarked - the "Venturi Dragon Ride" has already sold out so I wont be doing that one - hopefully some news next week!

Who's a lucky boy?

Santa certainly came to visit me this Christmas as I am now the proud owned of a Garmin Edge 705 GPS cycling computer - c/w HRM & Cadence - what this baby doesn't do isn't worth nothing.

With the weather being on the negative side over the past few days I have spent my time mapping & loading loads of training & Sunday bike rides onto my Garmin - no excuses for getting lost now. I have also discovered another route mapping tool which works brilliantly with the 705 - www.ridewithgps.com uploading & downloading is so simple.

Used it for the first time on yesterdays ride to Montford Bridge - just to track our route & monitor my HR - Downloaded the info to the Garmin Training Centre & the www.ridewithgps.com - fantastic & so easy - all my ride data & info right there in-front of me.

Looking forward to using it fully over the coming weeks.

Yuletide Greetings & a Happy New Year

Yuletide Greetings & a Happy New Year to everyone!....I had arranged to meet the lads from the Sunday bike runs on 4 separate dates but the weather has intervened somewhat. So we have only been out twice over the xmas period. Last Sunday was a quick sprint around Haughmond Wroxeter & the Wrekin only 22.5 miles but with the odd climb it was enough to get rid of the excess turkey & mince pies, making it back home before the rain. Yesterday [New Years Eve] we did a 36.6 mile loop out around Montford Bridge [Shrewsbury] which was cold but in good winter sunshine. Lee had an issue with a tightening crank & turned for home after 12/13 miles - got home safely & hopefully he'll be OK for Sunday.