It was quite a ride. More soon.
DM
Monday 21 May 2012
King's Cross!!
We made it. Yesterday was a long 136km day, but we made it into KX for 6:30pm, both relieved and overjoyed at the same time.
It was quite a ride. More soon.
DM
It was quite a ride. More soon.
DM
Sunday 20 May 2012
Saturday 19 May 2012
We're in Calais!
We've made it to Calais after a day of bright sunshine and fast roads. Tomorrow we cross the channel then face the long drag to KX. We're not home yet!
Tomorrow we should cross the channel, pick up a few extra cyclists (hopefully) and then face some less than brilliant forecasted weather / a few hills in order to make it to the finish line at King's Cross.
Wish us luck!
Tomorrow we should cross the channel, pick up a few extra cyclists (hopefully) and then face some less than brilliant forecasted weather / a few hills in order to make it to the finish line at King's Cross.
Wish us luck!
Friday 18 May 2012
100 miler (contd)
So. A big day today - we deliberately went on past our destination (Cambrai) with the intention of knocking off a few of tomorrow's miles (which was otherwise looking quite daunting). We pushed on to the 100 mile mark just really to say we had. It made it a long day, but hopefully we'll feel the benefits tomorrow.
Today has been OK, but not a classic. The morning was characterised by busy roads, big trucks and 'rolling' hills (which tended to be bigger than expected). The afternoon was much better - the wind eased, and the roads became quieter. And I was feeling much faster, which always helps!
By the end of the day we were all tired, but there is a growing sense of excitement about heading to Calais tomorrow. Everyone is still hoping beyond hope that we all stay fit for these last two days, but of course there are no guarantees.
There are lots of sore knees, aching muscles, and most of us have numb little fingers from so much riding. Painkillers are being consumed as regularly as energy bars (which, incidentally, we're all sick of) and chamois cream is being applied in thicker and thicker layers.
It would be easy to think that we're nearly there now - and indeed we've never been closer - but keeping the legs going for the next two days after the punishment they've already taken will be no mean feat. Keep all the texts / comments / etc coming; they're hugely appreciated. Keep everything crossed for us: we're going to need all the luck we can get over the next few days.
DM out.
Today has been OK, but not a classic. The morning was characterised by busy roads, big trucks and 'rolling' hills (which tended to be bigger than expected). The afternoon was much better - the wind eased, and the roads became quieter. And I was feeling much faster, which always helps!
By the end of the day we were all tired, but there is a growing sense of excitement about heading to Calais tomorrow. Everyone is still hoping beyond hope that we all stay fit for these last two days, but of course there are no guarantees.
There are lots of sore knees, aching muscles, and most of us have numb little fingers from so much riding. Painkillers are being consumed as regularly as energy bars (which, incidentally, we're all sick of) and chamois cream is being applied in thicker and thicker layers.
It would be easy to think that we're nearly there now - and indeed we've never been closer - but keeping the legs going for the next two days after the punishment they've already taken will be no mean feat. Keep all the texts / comments / etc coming; they're hugely appreciated. Keep everything crossed for us: we're going to need all the luck we can get over the next few days.
DM out.
The 100 miler
Just a v quick note to say that we're safely in Cambrai, after a monster 100 mile day. More later.
Thursday 17 May 2012
Day 6: Back in the game!
What a difference a day makes. After two pretty tough days (to put it politely!) today was a peach. It was still long (138km) bit we covered it quickly, getting to our hotel by half four.
The hills have been rolling - with some cracking descents (I managed a new top speed of 57.5km/h on one descent) - the wind has been at our backs (at last!) and the sun has been shining all day. I struggled a bit after first tea break - my left knee felt quite sore and I was off the pace a bit (in my defence though, the average pace at that point was 28km/h, which is high) but with some help from the Team (my thanks to Duncan and Graham) I soon recovered and was whizzing along quite happily after lunch.
So. End of day six and we're in a interesting "hotel" in Charleville-Mezeries. Two thirds of the way now. Fingers crossed that the legs keep going for the next three days. DM
The hills have been rolling - with some cracking descents (I managed a new top speed of 57.5km/h on one descent) - the wind has been at our backs (at last!) and the sun has been shining all day. I struggled a bit after first tea break - my left knee felt quite sore and I was off the pace a bit (in my defence though, the average pace at that point was 28km/h, which is high) but with some help from the Team (my thanks to Duncan and Graham) I soon recovered and was whizzing along quite happily after lunch.
So. End of day six and we're in a interesting "hotel" in Charleville-Mezeries. Two thirds of the way now. Fingers crossed that the legs keep going for the next three days. DM
Wednesday 16 May 2012
Wo-ah we're (over) half way there...
End of day 5, and we're somewhere near Metz, apparently sharing a hotel with the pro-cycling team Cofidis. It's been another tough day, but after the trials and tribulations of yesterday, it was good to get back to some proper cycling.
The biking was quite dull: busy main ish roads (equating to single file riding), into (yet another) headwind, and plenty of hills. We did a lot of climbing today - something around 1100 (long) metres - notably first thing this morning and last thing before stopping. My legs are feeling it this evening.
I think the distance is starting to show on everyone. We're all very tired and a few people have picked up (hopefully) minor injuries. I guess it's not surprising, given how far we have come.
Tomorrow: more cycling. Must keep the faith.
The biking was quite dull: busy main ish roads (equating to single file riding), into (yet another) headwind, and plenty of hills. We did a lot of climbing today - something around 1100 (long) metres - notably first thing this morning and last thing before stopping. My legs are feeling it this evening.
I think the distance is starting to show on everyone. We're all very tired and a few people have picked up (hopefully) minor injuries. I guess it's not surprising, given how far we have come.
Tomorrow: more cycling. Must keep the faith.
Tuesday 15 May 2012
Longest day
Today was probably the worst day so far. It was long (154km) and due to various navigational 'issues' we finished at 8:30pm/ 9pm in the French town of Saverne, absolutely shattered.
Yesterday, by contrast, was superb. We cycled beside Lake Constance to start with, then had some hills, then along brilliant Danube Way cycle track (I think), all in fantastic weather. The upbeat mood of the day came to a shuddering halt with some very sad news from home.
Last night we ate Chinese, and were promised that today would start with a short climb followed by a 100k descent. It sounded too good to be true. It was.
The big descent was down the German equivalent of the M6, which we decided against on advice from a local motorist. After much messing about the actual riding did not recommence until late morning. The ride was a difficult one - a tricky route and mixed weather. The stretches across the French border and from Strasbourg to Saverne were probably the worst, battling a howling headwind as we were riding. During the last 25k it started to rain as well - pretty much the last thing we needed at gone 8pm after such a long way.
Still. We got here. We're now in France and after tomorrow should be over half way. Must sleep now. Very very tired. DM
Yesterday, by contrast, was superb. We cycled beside Lake Constance to start with, then had some hills, then along brilliant Danube Way cycle track (I think), all in fantastic weather. The upbeat mood of the day came to a shuddering halt with some very sad news from home.
Last night we ate Chinese, and were promised that today would start with a short climb followed by a 100k descent. It sounded too good to be true. It was.
The big descent was down the German equivalent of the M6, which we decided against on advice from a local motorist. After much messing about the actual riding did not recommence until late morning. The ride was a difficult one - a tricky route and mixed weather. The stretches across the French border and from Strasbourg to Saverne were probably the worst, battling a howling headwind as we were riding. During the last 25k it started to rain as well - pretty much the last thing we needed at gone 8pm after such a long way.
Still. We got here. We're now in France and after tomorrow should be over half way. Must sleep now. Very very tired. DM
Monday 14 May 2012
Day 3
It's been a lovely days' cycling along the shores of the beautiful Lake Constance, and then up a few hills. We're now I'm Germany, I think. We've covered 135km today; in glorious weather. The Argent contingent are well, the Metropolitan / GE people are a cracking bunch. Sachin went for a swim in the Lake in Jim's bikini to raise a bit more for charity. DM out.
Sunday 13 May 2012
The climb!
I'll keep this very short: suffice to say Day 2 is over and we're in Bregenz. More importantly, the big climb over the Alberg Pass is over. It was tough, and it went on for ages... but it's done. We all made it up and over. We met the vans at the top for a very welcome cup of tea. More later. DM
Saturday 12 May 2012
End of Day 1
We're in Landeck, at the end of day 1. It's been a good day. We've covered 117.5km, and were joined for the ride by two chaps from GE, Christian and Rhinehart (I think) who largely guided us to Landeck.
This morning was spectacular - traffic free cycling in valleys between towering snow-capped peaks. The weather was overcast, but dry - the temperature almost perfect for biking! We stopped in Innsbruck for a coffee in buoyant mood. After coffee we pushed on, and I think we covered a total of 55k or so before lunch at a local cafe (which took ages).
After lunch, the riding was less fun. The weather worsened (light rain) and we were cycling into a fierce headwind. This bit was the hardest bit of the day for me - crosswind/headwind, busier roads, and a tough pace. Thankfully it didn't last too long; the wind dropped and the roads widened.
We spent much of the afternoon following the mighty River Inns, which is huge. The rain continued, but only lightly; nothing compared to recent downpours in the UK. We arrived here at 5:30pm, having somehow missed our final rendezvous with the van / bus.
All the Argent people are doing well - Jim is a bit of a speed demon (despite wearing a pink bra and knickers over his cycling kit (a condition of some sponsorship) and despite having a minor crash) and Jo and Clare seem to be cycling happily. Will is driving the van admirably (let's not mention the fine).
I'm quite tired, but otherwise don't feel too bad. It'll be interesting to see how I feel in the morning! The big question for dinner tonight is whether we attempt the pass tomorrow. It will largely depend on whether the road is open, of course, as there is apparently a chance of snow tonight at altitude.we shall see.
It's been a good first day. Tomorrow could be pretty tough. Wish us all luck! DM
This morning was spectacular - traffic free cycling in valleys between towering snow-capped peaks. The weather was overcast, but dry - the temperature almost perfect for biking! We stopped in Innsbruck for a coffee in buoyant mood. After coffee we pushed on, and I think we covered a total of 55k or so before lunch at a local cafe (which took ages).
After lunch, the riding was less fun. The weather worsened (light rain) and we were cycling into a fierce headwind. This bit was the hardest bit of the day for me - crosswind/headwind, busier roads, and a tough pace. Thankfully it didn't last too long; the wind dropped and the roads widened.
We spent much of the afternoon following the mighty River Inns, which is huge. The rain continued, but only lightly; nothing compared to recent downpours in the UK. We arrived here at 5:30pm, having somehow missed our final rendezvous with the van / bus.
All the Argent people are doing well - Jim is a bit of a speed demon (despite wearing a pink bra and knickers over his cycling kit (a condition of some sponsorship) and despite having a minor crash) and Jo and Clare seem to be cycling happily. Will is driving the van admirably (let's not mention the fine).
I'm quite tired, but otherwise don't feel too bad. It'll be interesting to see how I feel in the morning! The big question for dinner tonight is whether we attempt the pass tomorrow. It will largely depend on whether the road is open, of course, as there is apparently a chance of snow tonight at altitude.we shall see.
It's been a good first day. Tomorrow could be pretty tough. Wish us all luck! DM
First morning
A beautiful first morning. Lovely cycling through stunning scenery. Long may it continue! Not sure how long the rain will hold off, but it was at least nice to start in the dry. 
Friday 11 May 2012
Jenbach!
We've arrived! Jenbach is a beautiful mountain town, and it's currently fantastically warm. It was really quite odd arriving in 30' heat in Munich after the freezing temperatures of London. It's not set to last, but it made a nice change. The bikes are still en route, but should be here by 9ish. After that, it's a bite to eat then hopefully an early night ahead of a big first day tomorrow...
Departure day!
 |
| Bikes ready to go! And a kayak, oddly. |
It would be very wrong it say I'm ready, but that said I don't think I ever would be. I'll be glad to get going, certainly.
I have a nasty cold, which is remarkably unfortunate in terms of timing, but such is the way of things.
It's odd to think that this time next we'll be on day 7 of 9. I really can't think about that sort of thing just now - only the first 20 miles of Saturday. Nothing else is relevant at this point.
It's going to be great. I'm going to miss everyone at home; particularly our 1 year old, but it's only for a week. The cycling will be superb (he says, again, desperately trying to convince himself), and we're raising a lot of cash for charity - if you'd like to donate, there is still time. Do so here: http://www.justgiving.com/teams/PinkPanther/ - huge thanks to all of you that have donated already.
Well, wish us luck. It's going to be quite a trip.
DM
Ps. Late message from van driver Will, asking me to take CDs ask continental radio is rubbish. I've packed Bon Jovi - Greatest Hits, and Queen - Greatest HIts. What more could you want?
Monday 7 May 2012
Final Training Ride
Final training ride today, with my good friend Tom. Tom is a much more experienced cyclist than I am, and even occassionally goes riding with a cycling club. He mentions his cycling club occassionally race up hills. I have no desire to join this cycling club.
Anyway; it was a great ride. Hard work, yes, but I think that was the idea. Tom described it as a 'gradient ride'. Basically there were a lot of hills. Still, for the first time in ages, it didn't pour with rain as we were cycling (it was overcast) and the new and improved bike (armoured tyres, shorter stem) felt good (albeit in need of a service).
I'm not too sure where we went, but wherever it was, there was a disappointing lack of a tea and cake shop. We went fairly close to Chartwell, Hever Castle and numerous golf courses. The way back took us over Ide Hill (long, steep), Sunbridge Hill (very steep. I found this one the most difficult of the three) and past the Crystal Palace radio mast (a long climb right at the end of the route). All in all, it was reassuring. The hills were tough, but I got up them. The bike felt good. I was tired by the time we got home (after 102km) but that isn't really a surprise.
Austria still scares me, but I'm really quite eager to crack on with it now. I think it will scare me less once I start.
Time to the Pink Panther ride: Less than a week!
Confidence: Improving.
Weight: No idea. Suffice to say that my suits are all now quite a bit looser than the were.
Anyway; it was a great ride. Hard work, yes, but I think that was the idea. Tom described it as a 'gradient ride'. Basically there were a lot of hills. Still, for the first time in ages, it didn't pour with rain as we were cycling (it was overcast) and the new and improved bike (armoured tyres, shorter stem) felt good (albeit in need of a service).
I'm not too sure where we went, but wherever it was, there was a disappointing lack of a tea and cake shop. We went fairly close to Chartwell, Hever Castle and numerous golf courses. The way back took us over Ide Hill (long, steep), Sunbridge Hill (very steep. I found this one the most difficult of the three) and past the Crystal Palace radio mast (a long climb right at the end of the route). All in all, it was reassuring. The hills were tough, but I got up them. The bike felt good. I was tired by the time we got home (after 102km) but that isn't really a surprise.
Austria still scares me, but I'm really quite eager to crack on with it now. I think it will scare me less once I start.
Time to the Pink Panther ride: Less than a week!
Confidence: Improving.
Weight: No idea. Suffice to say that my suits are all now quite a bit looser than the were.
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