This morning I thought I would get the bike out and give it a bit of a going over. In the past few days I have felt much better, and since Friday I have been moving around the house without the need for crutches, which just feels great (if still a bit sore, but I can live with that).
So, I got the bike out, fitted the new saddle and managed to fix the saddle bag (the fitting to the saddle had also broken) to the saddle with a couple of cable ties. I had a look at the tyres, and one is a bit worn where I caught the gravelly stuff and skidded, and the rear wheel was also quite badly buckled. Also, the rear axle was a touch loose.
So, I did a few fixes and oiled a few bits, then tried it out. I went down the high street and back and then altered the spokes to bring the wheel more or less back in line. Then I went down the high street again to test it, came back and tightened the rear axle. Finally I went out around via Marston, a few miles, just to see how I felt. I felt good.
A few things I noticed. One, I have to sit in a certain position on the saddle otherwise it hurts quite badly. Two, I am not as unfit as I could be. Three, whilst being a touch concerned about traffic I was not too bad in the nerves front. Four, getting onto the saddle is quite a challenge as it's difficult to lift my leg :). Five, I need to realise that I can't whizz up the hills as I was doing before quite yet.
So there we are, I'm back in the saddle again! Next weekend I'm going to try the first trip Capt, Purser and I did together, out towards Urchfont. Taking it nice and steady, of course! I shall welcome a touch of company from Purser and Capt, if they are free.
Sunday 25 July 2010
Thursday 22 July 2010
Phew! Nearly through the week!
Very tiring, this working lark. It's easy to underestimate how much more difficult it is to move around an office than to move around at home. It's just the scale of the thing - it's probably 50 times farther to the toilet and back than at home, 40 times further to get to the canteen, add on the getting ready in the morning and getting into/out of the office and I end up falling asleep on the sofa at 7pm and sleeping straight through.
Still, I've lost 3 lbs this week which is a bonus! I'm down to 14 stone 7 lbs.
My new cycling shoes arrived yesterday. They are brill. I have attached the cleats so they are ready to go. I should get my new bike next week, and may feel like a short ride on the Saturday, we shall see!
Still, I've lost 3 lbs this week which is a bonus! I'm down to 14 stone 7 lbs.
My new cycling shoes arrived yesterday. They are brill. I have attached the cleats so they are ready to go. I should get my new bike next week, and may feel like a short ride on the Saturday, we shall see!
Sunday 18 July 2010
Back to Work Tomorrow!
Things have gone really well over the past four weeks. When I think back to what I was like when I got back from Dartmoor (only being able to move a few metres, unable to turn over in bed, 20od bruises all over my body and finding more daily) to now, where if I am just moving around the house I can use one stick, then that is brilliant. I reckon another week and I should be able to drive, and perhaps a week after that my first, tentative cycle. All down to complete R&R. I even slept back upstairs last night for the first night since Dartmoor - blimey it was good to be back on the memory foam!
It's been an interesting experience. Being completely reliant on other people to do (almost) everything for you is very humbling, and makes you realise how difficult it must be for people who care for, and and cared for, full time.
I was looking at my legs this morning, and boy have they lost a lot of definition. My right leg has not been used for 4 weeks now, and my left doesn't look much better. It's going to be a good couple of months before I get back to the levels of fitness I was at before the incident.
Good news though - we reckon with the money raised, and through previous events, that we have enough for the all weather surface. Brill!
It's been an interesting experience. Being completely reliant on other people to do (almost) everything for you is very humbling, and makes you realise how difficult it must be for people who care for, and and cared for, full time.
I was looking at my legs this morning, and boy have they lost a lot of definition. My right leg has not been used for 4 weeks now, and my left doesn't look much better. It's going to be a good couple of months before I get back to the levels of fitness I was at before the incident.
Good news though - we reckon with the money raised, and through previous events, that we have enough for the all weather surface. Brill!
Wednesday 14 July 2010
10 Yards and Counting!
I can now go about 10 yards with just one stick - just far enough to carry a cup of tea from the kitchen to the lounge.
Brill, just brill!
Brill, just brill!
Monday 12 July 2010
A Taste of the 22nd Century
Been to the consultant again this morning, this time at a place called Circle Bath, near Peasedown St. John (yes, it is still raining there :D ).
It was incredible, all futuristic, a brand new building with state of the art everything. As I sat waiting in the foyer which runs the length of the building I was treated to a coffee and shortbread biscuit, then down for X-Rays and back to see the consultant. It really was like something out of the 1970's vision of the future. Not sure anyone imagined the future manifesting itself at Peasedown St John though :D
Anyways, good news, healing well. I can drive and cycle when I feel up to it - no time scale, just when I feel I can do an emergency stop in the car, and when I feel that cycling will not be painful. I reckon a couple of weeks for the driving, and cycling slightly longer, maybe three or four weeks.
What I didn't realise is that the pubic bone in the pelvis is not just suspended in mid air, it is where the hamstring attaches. This is where all that pain comes from, bruised and pulling on where the break is. Makes sense, and makes sense that complete rest sorts out the healing process.
So, back to work on Monday, all back to almost normal a few weeks later. Hurrah!
It was incredible, all futuristic, a brand new building with state of the art everything. As I sat waiting in the foyer which runs the length of the building I was treated to a coffee and shortbread biscuit, then down for X-Rays and back to see the consultant. It really was like something out of the 1970's vision of the future. Not sure anyone imagined the future manifesting itself at Peasedown St John though :D
Anyways, good news, healing well. I can drive and cycle when I feel up to it - no time scale, just when I feel I can do an emergency stop in the car, and when I feel that cycling will not be painful. I reckon a couple of weeks for the driving, and cycling slightly longer, maybe three or four weeks.
What I didn't realise is that the pubic bone in the pelvis is not just suspended in mid air, it is where the hamstring attaches. This is where all that pain comes from, bruised and pulling on where the break is. Makes sense, and makes sense that complete rest sorts out the healing process.
So, back to work on Monday, all back to almost normal a few weeks later. Hurrah!
Saturday 10 July 2010
My Wife is Very Special!
She got me in the car today, saying that I could have a ride to the shops and sit in the car (a bit of fresh air she said).
On the way she stopped right outside Melksham Cycle Centre and told me to hobble in and order a new bike. So I did :D She really is brill!
So, I ordered a Specialized Allez double in silver, with new helmet seeing as I broke my last one. I'm very excited :D I chatted to the chap about the double or triple chainset (the big cogs at the front), and we decided that the double would be best.
Watch out Wiltshire, a few more weeks and I'm coming to get you!
On the way she stopped right outside Melksham Cycle Centre and told me to hobble in and order a new bike. So I did :D She really is brill!
So, I ordered a Specialized Allez double in silver, with new helmet seeing as I broke my last one. I'm very excited :D I chatted to the chap about the double or triple chainset (the big cogs at the front), and we decided that the double would be best.
Watch out Wiltshire, a few more weeks and I'm coming to get you!
Friday 9 July 2010
First Real Trip Out
Well, apart from Capt picking me up (almost literally) and propping me up in the pub last week (which I was immensely grateful of), I haven't been out under my own speed since the accident. Last night was an introduction to the senior school my eldest is going to go to, so I decided it was time to gauge how much progress I have made.
I made it from the car to the hall, and sat uncomfortably while the headmaster did his speech. The chair was one of those moulded hard ones - by golly it was uncomfortable.
Next it was up to the classroom, which was only about 100 yards away but up some stairs. This really showed me how much work I have to do before I can go back to work, as I was shattered after about 20 yards, in a lot of pain, and the stairs took me about 5 minutes, by which time the talk by the teacher was almost over and it was time to go back down!
So, as of next Monday, I need to start doing a bit more, maybe some stairs at home, and just generally increasing my stamina. The other thing that really hurts are my hands as they support my weight every other step, so I'm thinking of trying to wrap some cloth or something around the supports on the crutches.
One great thing - I have actually lost a small bit of weight! I suppose it's down to the fact that I haven't been able to feed myself rubbish during the day, and the amount of energy my body needs to heal itself. I am now 14 stone 11.
I made it from the car to the hall, and sat uncomfortably while the headmaster did his speech. The chair was one of those moulded hard ones - by golly it was uncomfortable.
Next it was up to the classroom, which was only about 100 yards away but up some stairs. This really showed me how much work I have to do before I can go back to work, as I was shattered after about 20 yards, in a lot of pain, and the stairs took me about 5 minutes, by which time the talk by the teacher was almost over and it was time to go back down!
So, as of next Monday, I need to start doing a bit more, maybe some stairs at home, and just generally increasing my stamina. The other thing that really hurts are my hands as they support my weight every other step, so I'm thinking of trying to wrap some cloth or something around the supports on the crutches.
One great thing - I have actually lost a small bit of weight! I suppose it's down to the fact that I haven't been able to feed myself rubbish during the day, and the amount of energy my body needs to heal itself. I am now 14 stone 11.
Thursday 8 July 2010
Le Tour de France, a Beginners Guide...
A bit of a departure here from my normal 'it's all about me posts' :D
Whilst being at home I have been watching the 'Le Tour' with a new found interest. Purser bought me Lance Armstrong's book 'It's not about the Bike' (thanks Purser), which is actually a story of when he got cancer, his treatment, his recovery and his subsequent rides in the tour. I had no idea what was going on in the tour before with cries of - 'oh look, lots of guys in a group, what's that all about', and 'someone just went off out front, they're going to win'. However it's much more than that as I now understand.
It's actually a team game. They have different people with different skills (some are good at climbing, some good at sprinting, some good all rounders) and then each usually have a given task for a stage (like make sure our sprinter gets to the end near the front). So, depending on the stage, you get almost a game of chess going on, with teams taking the front to speed it up, or slow it down, depending on their objectives.
The other thing I never realised is how much of an effect draughting can have. This is where a cyclist cycles behind another. The first essentially punches a hole through the air, and tows the second guy behind. The second guy can then pedal with much less effort, saving his energy. This is why breakaway groups only rarely succeed - the guys in the peloton (the main group of cyclists) are draughting pretty much all the way, keeping their energy, and therefore can catch breakaways quite easily when they want to. The downside of draughting is that you are riding really close to guy in front (sometimes a cm or so) - you've got to concentrate!
Finally, the jerseys. Most people are aware of the yellow jersey - this is awarded to the person who has taken the least time in all the stages to date. The person who get to Paris with the lowest time (and seconds usually decide this) wins.
Then there is the green jersey, the 'sprinters' jersey. This is awarded on a points based system based on where cyclists finish at the end of a stage or at specified sprint points during a stage. So, you can win the green, without winning the yellow, by getting points.
Third is the king of the mountains - the red polka dot jersey (mmmm, nice). This is awarded to people who are good at climbing, and points are again given. There are different category climbs, so points are given depending on how difficult the climb is.
Finally is the best placed young rider - the white jersey. Same rules as for yellow, but for people who are 26 or younger on the 1st Jan in which the race takes place.
Anyways, there you go. A quick guide. Some stages are more exciting than others, some are slow and flat, some are full of mini races. Some are strewn with crashes and broken bones, others with safe and slow riding ready for a sprint. The great thing is, depending on team strategy, the weather and whether someone is 'feeling good', you never really know what you are going to get...
Whilst being at home I have been watching the 'Le Tour' with a new found interest. Purser bought me Lance Armstrong's book 'It's not about the Bike' (thanks Purser), which is actually a story of when he got cancer, his treatment, his recovery and his subsequent rides in the tour. I had no idea what was going on in the tour before with cries of - 'oh look, lots of guys in a group, what's that all about', and 'someone just went off out front, they're going to win'. However it's much more than that as I now understand.
It's actually a team game. They have different people with different skills (some are good at climbing, some good at sprinting, some good all rounders) and then each usually have a given task for a stage (like make sure our sprinter gets to the end near the front). So, depending on the stage, you get almost a game of chess going on, with teams taking the front to speed it up, or slow it down, depending on their objectives.
The other thing I never realised is how much of an effect draughting can have. This is where a cyclist cycles behind another. The first essentially punches a hole through the air, and tows the second guy behind. The second guy can then pedal with much less effort, saving his energy. This is why breakaway groups only rarely succeed - the guys in the peloton (the main group of cyclists) are draughting pretty much all the way, keeping their energy, and therefore can catch breakaways quite easily when they want to. The downside of draughting is that you are riding really close to guy in front (sometimes a cm or so) - you've got to concentrate!
Finally, the jerseys. Most people are aware of the yellow jersey - this is awarded to the person who has taken the least time in all the stages to date. The person who get to Paris with the lowest time (and seconds usually decide this) wins.
Then there is the green jersey, the 'sprinters' jersey. This is awarded on a points based system based on where cyclists finish at the end of a stage or at specified sprint points during a stage. So, you can win the green, without winning the yellow, by getting points.
Third is the king of the mountains - the red polka dot jersey (mmmm, nice). This is awarded to people who are good at climbing, and points are again given. There are different category climbs, so points are given depending on how difficult the climb is.
Finally is the best placed young rider - the white jersey. Same rules as for yellow, but for people who are 26 or younger on the 1st Jan in which the race takes place.
Anyways, there you go. A quick guide. Some stages are more exciting than others, some are slow and flat, some are full of mini races. Some are strewn with crashes and broken bones, others with safe and slow riding ready for a sprint. The great thing is, depending on team strategy, the weather and whether someone is 'feeling good', you never really know what you are going to get...
Tuesday 6 July 2010
Another Trip to the Consultant
Booked in for 9am on Monday. It should be last one, and I shall be asking when I will be able to get on my bike.
I feel like all that hard work I put in earlier this year is seeping away, however once I get back on my bike I'm expecting to be back in shape within a month or so.
I emailed Capt and Purser today about doing the London-Paris next year. No reply as yet :D It is a properly organised event, with accommodation etc, over a few days. Sounds like great fun.
I feel like all that hard work I put in earlier this year is seeping away, however once I get back on my bike I'm expecting to be back in shape within a month or so.
I emailed Capt and Purser today about doing the London-Paris next year. No reply as yet :D It is a properly organised event, with accommodation etc, over a few days. Sounds like great fun.
Small Signs of Progress
Well, after 2 weeks of pain, not sleeping at night, dozing all day and eating pain killers like they are going out of fashion, things finally seem to be making some progress!
First and most importantly I can now sleep on my side at nights! My left is more comfortable than my right, but at least I can get myself into position. It really is bliss (I've never been one for sleeping on my back, unless I have had a skinfull at which point Mrs Oddlad will give me a poke anyway seeing as I would be snoring like a steam train).
Second I can now put some weight on my right leg. It's weird really, but it's incredible how quickly the muscles have weakened. So, the way to move about is now a sort of shuffle the right leg forward and then, using crutches, move the left forward. I can actually go quite fast, although I have had a couple of stumbles (any little bump/rug edge becomes an obstacle) which have caused me quite a bit of pain.
Finally, I can now get into the kitchen to make myself a coffee. The pain is (and I never thought about this before) that when on crutches you can't carry anything! So, what I do is make up a flask and then carry it in a plastic bag. Brill.
So, I'm now sitting here feeling rather more pleased with myself, and looking forward to getting back on my bike. In fact, I have decided to get myself a new bike. I'm particularly looking at the Specialized Allez
See here
although I shall get it from Melksham Cycle Store rather then online. I feel like I need a bit of change, a light bike for fun, and something that is a touch more agile after my accident. That is not to say that I will not be riding my other bike, as it will still be my touring bike, but the Allez will be my weekday/weekend/fun bike. I'm very excited.
Onwards and (shuffly) upwards!
First and most importantly I can now sleep on my side at nights! My left is more comfortable than my right, but at least I can get myself into position. It really is bliss (I've never been one for sleeping on my back, unless I have had a skinfull at which point Mrs Oddlad will give me a poke anyway seeing as I would be snoring like a steam train).
Second I can now put some weight on my right leg. It's weird really, but it's incredible how quickly the muscles have weakened. So, the way to move about is now a sort of shuffle the right leg forward and then, using crutches, move the left forward. I can actually go quite fast, although I have had a couple of stumbles (any little bump/rug edge becomes an obstacle) which have caused me quite a bit of pain.
Finally, I can now get into the kitchen to make myself a coffee. The pain is (and I never thought about this before) that when on crutches you can't carry anything! So, what I do is make up a flask and then carry it in a plastic bag. Brill.
So, I'm now sitting here feeling rather more pleased with myself, and looking forward to getting back on my bike. In fact, I have decided to get myself a new bike. I'm particularly looking at the Specialized Allez
See here
although I shall get it from Melksham Cycle Store rather then online. I feel like I need a bit of change, a light bike for fun, and something that is a touch more agile after my accident. That is not to say that I will not be riding my other bike, as it will still be my touring bike, but the Allez will be my weekday/weekend/fun bike. I'm very excited.
Onwards and (shuffly) upwards!
Monday 28 June 2010
What the Doctor Said...
Went off to see the consultant this afternoon. Lovely day for a car ride (the first time I have been out of the house since I got back from Dartmoor). The consultant was a nice chap with a good sense of humour and a cunning knack of causing me a lot of pain in the name of trying to find out what was wrong.
So, first the good news. I will be on crutches for another 5 weeks, with 3 weeks more advised off work (otherwise I risk a more lengthy healing period). After the 3 weeks I may be able to drive (only I will know, but I certainly want to be able to do emergency stops for all those pesky cyclists out there), but more likely after the 5 weeks. It will then be another 6 weeks before I am fully up to ramming speed. 11 weeks more in all.
Now the bad news - I had another set of X Rays and they show that I actually broke my pelvis twice, both pubic bones, with the right hand side one much worse than the left (quite a sizeable crack on the right running along the length of the bone). There was also a chip out of my hip socket, which could have been down to the accident, or down to general wear and tear. He did say that for someone my size to have broken these bones in the way I have it must have been a very sizeable impact, with a lot of energy moving through my hips. I suppose the yellowy/bluey/swollen area running down the outside of my leg is testament to that.
I go back to the consultant in 3-4 weeks time to check on progress, at which point I will ask him about cycling and timescale. Worst case will be another 11 weeks, best case 5 weeks, as a betting man I'd say it will be somewhere in between.
As for Mrs Oddlad she is, quite understandably, worried about me getting back on a bike, but she also knows that accidents are just that. Still, very difficult times for her. She really is a gem.
So, first the good news. I will be on crutches for another 5 weeks, with 3 weeks more advised off work (otherwise I risk a more lengthy healing period). After the 3 weeks I may be able to drive (only I will know, but I certainly want to be able to do emergency stops for all those pesky cyclists out there), but more likely after the 5 weeks. It will then be another 6 weeks before I am fully up to ramming speed. 11 weeks more in all.
Now the bad news - I had another set of X Rays and they show that I actually broke my pelvis twice, both pubic bones, with the right hand side one much worse than the left (quite a sizeable crack on the right running along the length of the bone). There was also a chip out of my hip socket, which could have been down to the accident, or down to general wear and tear. He did say that for someone my size to have broken these bones in the way I have it must have been a very sizeable impact, with a lot of energy moving through my hips. I suppose the yellowy/bluey/swollen area running down the outside of my leg is testament to that.
I go back to the consultant in 3-4 weeks time to check on progress, at which point I will ask him about cycling and timescale. Worst case will be another 11 weeks, best case 5 weeks, as a betting man I'd say it will be somewhere in between.
As for Mrs Oddlad she is, quite understandably, worried about me getting back on a bike, but she also knows that accidents are just that. Still, very difficult times for her. She really is a gem.
Monday 21 June 2010
Thanks Everyone
Thanks everyone for all you best wishes, it is most appreciated!
Thinking back on the events of last Friday, it was all rather strange. It was like it was all part of the plan (start early, cycle across Dartmoor, crash, go to hospital...). It just seemed par for the course. Wierd. When I was lying on the floor I was sort of thinking that I had just been involved in 'the' accident, nothing to get overly worried about, it would all sort itself out to plan (whatever that is). Perhaps that's just something that a brain does, a bit of self preservation.
Anyways, sitting here now, finding new bruises every day, and popping co-codamol. Got the GP coming to see me, and we'll see where it goes from there. My bet? Move as little as possible for a few weeks. Might also have to make use of the company medical insurance, but we'll see.
At least there's something on the telly (footie and Wimbledon)!
Thinking back on the events of last Friday, it was all rather strange. It was like it was all part of the plan (start early, cycle across Dartmoor, crash, go to hospital...). It just seemed par for the course. Wierd. When I was lying on the floor I was sort of thinking that I had just been involved in 'the' accident, nothing to get overly worried about, it would all sort itself out to plan (whatever that is). Perhaps that's just something that a brain does, a bit of self preservation.
Anyways, sitting here now, finding new bruises every day, and popping co-codamol. Got the GP coming to see me, and we'll see where it goes from there. My bet? Move as little as possible for a few weeks. Might also have to make use of the company medical insurance, but we'll see.
At least there's something on the telly (footie and Wimbledon)!
Saturday 19 June 2010
Whoops....
Erm, well, an intersting day to say the least. We arrived at Start Point at about 9:30 and set off at 10am. Weather was great, if a bit hot. We cycled up and down, up and down, across from Start Point to Buckfastleigh, then up on to the top of Dartmoor. It was incredibly hard going (10 miles in Devon is the equivalent of 20 in Wiltshire), but we were keeping good spirits. We made it to Widecome in the Moor, where Capt, Purser and our support driver Mother Goose had a cream tea, and I had ham, egg and chips. That was about 4:30, and we were tired but happy.
We reckoned another 15-20 miles to where we were staying overnight, so set off. The majority looked downhill which was a godsend after all the hill climbs we had done.
Anyways, we were coming down to Chagford. It was quite a fast hill, but we were slowing ourselves on our brakes to the best of our ability as there were a few sharp corners. I was in front, Capt second, Purser third, and Mother Goose was behind in the van, when a car came round a sharp bend. I saw it and applied my brakes, and the driver applied hers. She stopped almost immediately but my back end slipped out and started to slide on the gravelly bit that you often get on narrow roads in Dartmoor.
In an instant I hit the car with my right hip, was catapulted off the bike and hit my head on the car somewhere (not sure if it was bonnet or windscreen) and ended up on the floor. I tried to get up but realised very quickly that something was wrong with my right hip. I lay back down and Capt called an ambulance.
I was fully conscious all the way through. I was incredibly happy I had been wearing a helmet - I have a sore nose, but the helmet I had had a peak at the front which took the majority of the impact. So, rule number one "ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET"!
I found myself laying on the floor, my head downhill and on my left side. My head was next to the drivers door. Capt and lady driving the car were great - very calm on the phone. I found myself talking to the driver quite a lot, trying to keep myself calm. She was great, saying the important thing was that I was OK. I was well aware that we had both been involved in an accident, and whilst she did not have injuries she was probably quite shocked herself. Not surprising after seeing my rather large frame flying through the air towards her.
I knew I had shock, my hands were tingling, but I triaged myself, wriggling extremities. What I did know was that my right hip was giving me a lot of pain. All I could think about was Mrs Oddlad and the kids. There would a mixture of real concern, and then understandable anger that I was putting them through a horrible situation.
After about 10 mins I heard the air ambulance. The rest went very quickly. Everyone was absolutely brilliant - I was given some morphine for which I was very grateful, then they had trouble getting me onto the stretcher given my close proximity to the bank at the side of the road. I was then carried to the helicopter, slid in, and was in Exeter A&E within 10 mins. They were absolutely brilliant.
In A&E I was fairly comfortable, although the neck brace I had been put in was quite uncomfortable. I was not allowed to move until a doctor had seen me, but this took about (guessing here) one and a half hours. When he arrived he checked me over, removed the neck brace, and checked my hip which was/is very bruised. I then went off for an X-Ray.
The results were back, and about 4 hours later I was told that I have a break in my pelvis (the pubis part), and that although painful there is nothing that can realistically be done except that it be allowed to heal. I was then given some crutches, and had a hobble, but my oh my, it was incredibly painful. I was discharged and got a taxi back to where Capt, Purser and Mother Goose were staying. It took me 10 mins to get into the taxi, and 10 mins to get out, just with the pain and my inability to put any weight on the leg.
I do need to say that the nurses and doctors at the hospital were brilliant. Just brilliant. They deserve a medal a day for the work they do.
Capt, Purser and Mother Goose were pleased to see me, as I was them. A couple of pints of orange juice and lemonade and we were off to bed. The lads had decided that they were going to call a halt to the trip. I'm not surprised - remembering the looks of concern on their faces as I lay on the floor. They were both very shaken up.
So, I'm now back home. Mrs Oddlad and kids are OK, but a bit teary when I got home. I can now manage about 10 yards in 5 mins using my crutches, and cocodamol are keeping the pain at bay. Next stop the doctors on Monday to get myself onto some kind of treatment.
What I am not, however, is feeling sorry for myself. It could have been a whole lot worse. I will have to live with a lot of pain for a while, and probably have a good few months until I get back to ramming speed (no, not literally), but it is just my hip (and grazed elbow, sore nose, bruised shoulder, bruised knee, and sore nipple from cycling). So many things to take away from this experience, including the support of my good friends and beautiful wife.
So, what am I thinking about whilst sitting here? Not cycling at the moment, that's for sure! Uncertain times ahead, with work and recuperation, but fingers crossed it's not as bad as it feels.
We reckoned another 15-20 miles to where we were staying overnight, so set off. The majority looked downhill which was a godsend after all the hill climbs we had done.
Anyways, we were coming down to Chagford. It was quite a fast hill, but we were slowing ourselves on our brakes to the best of our ability as there were a few sharp corners. I was in front, Capt second, Purser third, and Mother Goose was behind in the van, when a car came round a sharp bend. I saw it and applied my brakes, and the driver applied hers. She stopped almost immediately but my back end slipped out and started to slide on the gravelly bit that you often get on narrow roads in Dartmoor.
In an instant I hit the car with my right hip, was catapulted off the bike and hit my head on the car somewhere (not sure if it was bonnet or windscreen) and ended up on the floor. I tried to get up but realised very quickly that something was wrong with my right hip. I lay back down and Capt called an ambulance.
I was fully conscious all the way through. I was incredibly happy I had been wearing a helmet - I have a sore nose, but the helmet I had had a peak at the front which took the majority of the impact. So, rule number one "ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET"!
I found myself laying on the floor, my head downhill and on my left side. My head was next to the drivers door. Capt and lady driving the car were great - very calm on the phone. I found myself talking to the driver quite a lot, trying to keep myself calm. She was great, saying the important thing was that I was OK. I was well aware that we had both been involved in an accident, and whilst she did not have injuries she was probably quite shocked herself. Not surprising after seeing my rather large frame flying through the air towards her.
I knew I had shock, my hands were tingling, but I triaged myself, wriggling extremities. What I did know was that my right hip was giving me a lot of pain. All I could think about was Mrs Oddlad and the kids. There would a mixture of real concern, and then understandable anger that I was putting them through a horrible situation.
After about 10 mins I heard the air ambulance. The rest went very quickly. Everyone was absolutely brilliant - I was given some morphine for which I was very grateful, then they had trouble getting me onto the stretcher given my close proximity to the bank at the side of the road. I was then carried to the helicopter, slid in, and was in Exeter A&E within 10 mins. They were absolutely brilliant.
In A&E I was fairly comfortable, although the neck brace I had been put in was quite uncomfortable. I was not allowed to move until a doctor had seen me, but this took about (guessing here) one and a half hours. When he arrived he checked me over, removed the neck brace, and checked my hip which was/is very bruised. I then went off for an X-Ray.
The results were back, and about 4 hours later I was told that I have a break in my pelvis (the pubis part), and that although painful there is nothing that can realistically be done except that it be allowed to heal. I was then given some crutches, and had a hobble, but my oh my, it was incredibly painful. I was discharged and got a taxi back to where Capt, Purser and Mother Goose were staying. It took me 10 mins to get into the taxi, and 10 mins to get out, just with the pain and my inability to put any weight on the leg.
I do need to say that the nurses and doctors at the hospital were brilliant. Just brilliant. They deserve a medal a day for the work they do.
Capt, Purser and Mother Goose were pleased to see me, as I was them. A couple of pints of orange juice and lemonade and we were off to bed. The lads had decided that they were going to call a halt to the trip. I'm not surprised - remembering the looks of concern on their faces as I lay on the floor. They were both very shaken up.
So, I'm now back home. Mrs Oddlad and kids are OK, but a bit teary when I got home. I can now manage about 10 yards in 5 mins using my crutches, and cocodamol are keeping the pain at bay. Next stop the doctors on Monday to get myself onto some kind of treatment.
What I am not, however, is feeling sorry for myself. It could have been a whole lot worse. I will have to live with a lot of pain for a while, and probably have a good few months until I get back to ramming speed (no, not literally), but it is just my hip (and grazed elbow, sore nose, bruised shoulder, bruised knee, and sore nipple from cycling). So many things to take away from this experience, including the support of my good friends and beautiful wife.
So, what am I thinking about whilst sitting here? Not cycling at the moment, that's for sure! Uncertain times ahead, with work and recuperation, but fingers crossed it's not as bad as it feels.
Friday 18 June 2010
The Day Has Arrived!
Well, woke up at 4am and couldn't get back to sleep. We set off from Pursers house at 6am, so just trying to get some Weetabix down my neck (with hot milk - the wife says it looks like baby food).
Truth be told I'm a bit nervous. We looked through the route last night, and "there be hills". Still, the weather looks absolutely glorious! A touch of a headwind, but nothing major, and lots of warm sunshine. We're hoping it will a few degrees cooler on top of Dartmoor, but hey, it could be a lot, lot worse.
So, the van is packed (although Capt and Purser laughed at my big stacker box full of goodies and equipment - they'll be glad when they need a support bandage, or some jelly babies). All we need to do is get to "Start Point"!
Truth be told I'm a bit nervous. We looked through the route last night, and "there be hills". Still, the weather looks absolutely glorious! A touch of a headwind, but nothing major, and lots of warm sunshine. We're hoping it will a few degrees cooler on top of Dartmoor, but hey, it could be a lot, lot worse.
So, the van is packed (although Capt and Purser laughed at my big stacker box full of goodies and equipment - they'll be glad when they need a support bandage, or some jelly babies). All we need to do is get to "Start Point"!
Monday 14 June 2010
Nearly There Now!
Apologies regular readers for the gap in my posts. I have been on hols and then training hard again ready for the big trip which is this Friday!
So, I was on me hols on bank holiday week, and then on the day after I got back Capt, Purser and I went out for a 45 miler. A momentous trip for me, as I clocked up a total of 1000 miles since March! It was a great ride, up Roundway white horse, up Milk Hill (which Capt tells me is the highest point in Wiltshire), then out towards Marlborough, round towards Pewsey, Devizes and home. A super trip and really rewarding in that, given my holiday layoff, I didn't feel the slightest bit tired.
I followed this up with a morning cycle on Monday, then on Tuesday I cycled up Long Hollow in Edington, a climb I never managed as a child (even though I lived at the bottom of it). Then on Weds Capt, Purser and I did the Hickman Challenge - up to Bratton, up that side of Westbury White Horse, down to Westbury then turn round and go back up. We all managed it in around the half hour mark, and it was a most satisfying trip. We had a pint in Steeple Ashton and then another in the Brewery to celebrate!
I followed this up with a cycle to work on Thursday, then had a quiet few days over the weekend.
Today I decided, given the week, that I would do the first ride I ever did in real training, the trip to Devizes through Potterne. That was the day that the old chap in Devizes stopped to offer me assistance! At that time the trip would be about 9 miles as I would come back through Poulshot, and it would take me an hour.
Today I shot up the hills, went down to Rowde, up towards Bromham on the back road, Sells Green, main road to Seend, up through the Cleeve, Seend Head, Bulkington and home. 15 miles, one hour :)
I am excited about the trip, and a little nervous. I think we are getting close to our £1000 sponsorship aswell. I shall take Weds and Thursday off, and stock up with plenty of pasta.
Oh, and final note today, I wanted to be below 15 stone for the cycle. I am, as of today 14 stone 11. Heaven knows how much weight we will lose this Friday and Saturday...
So, I was on me hols on bank holiday week, and then on the day after I got back Capt, Purser and I went out for a 45 miler. A momentous trip for me, as I clocked up a total of 1000 miles since March! It was a great ride, up Roundway white horse, up Milk Hill (which Capt tells me is the highest point in Wiltshire), then out towards Marlborough, round towards Pewsey, Devizes and home. A super trip and really rewarding in that, given my holiday layoff, I didn't feel the slightest bit tired.
I followed this up with a morning cycle on Monday, then on Tuesday I cycled up Long Hollow in Edington, a climb I never managed as a child (even though I lived at the bottom of it). Then on Weds Capt, Purser and I did the Hickman Challenge - up to Bratton, up that side of Westbury White Horse, down to Westbury then turn round and go back up. We all managed it in around the half hour mark, and it was a most satisfying trip. We had a pint in Steeple Ashton and then another in the Brewery to celebrate!
I followed this up with a cycle to work on Thursday, then had a quiet few days over the weekend.
Today I decided, given the week, that I would do the first ride I ever did in real training, the trip to Devizes through Potterne. That was the day that the old chap in Devizes stopped to offer me assistance! At that time the trip would be about 9 miles as I would come back through Poulshot, and it would take me an hour.
Today I shot up the hills, went down to Rowde, up towards Bromham on the back road, Sells Green, main road to Seend, up through the Cleeve, Seend Head, Bulkington and home. 15 miles, one hour :)
I am excited about the trip, and a little nervous. I think we are getting close to our £1000 sponsorship aswell. I shall take Weds and Thursday off, and stock up with plenty of pasta.
Oh, and final note today, I wanted to be below 15 stone for the cycle. I am, as of today 14 stone 11. Heaven knows how much weight we will lose this Friday and Saturday...
Wednesday 26 May 2010
Good News and Bad News
Good news - I am now officially under 15 stone! 14 stone 13 appeared on the scales this morning. Whoohoo! I'm going to celebrate with a couple of beers :D
Bad news - I had to miss Friday, Saturday and Sunday cycling because of a darned cold. Monday I cycled to work, yesterday I went out first thing, as I did today. Chest still a bit tight, but it's just about doable. Trouble is, I am off on my hols next week, with minimal cycling on the horizon.
So, here's my plan. Cycle twice today, twice tomorrow, to work/back Friday. Go on hols, come back and cycle like a madman on that week and weekend. Then on the final week a few gentle rides on the Monday and Tuesday, perhaps Weds, then Thursday off, then Friday is THE BIG DAY!
Bad news - I had to miss Friday, Saturday and Sunday cycling because of a darned cold. Monday I cycled to work, yesterday I went out first thing, as I did today. Chest still a bit tight, but it's just about doable. Trouble is, I am off on my hols next week, with minimal cycling on the horizon.
So, here's my plan. Cycle twice today, twice tomorrow, to work/back Friday. Go on hols, come back and cycle like a madman on that week and weekend. Then on the final week a few gentle rides on the Monday and Tuesday, perhaps Weds, then Thursday off, then Friday is THE BIG DAY!
Wednesday 19 May 2010
Gauging Progress
I was out taking stock this morning as to how far I have come in the last few months. This was on my 3 peaks (Devizes) then Rowde, Bromham, Seend and back home route.
If I think back to my first real cycle, where I dropped the car off at the garage in Chippenham and cycled the 2 miles to work. It was a tiring experience, but one that I got a lot of satisfaction from. I was, however, very tired after the ride. I then go back to when I cycled to Devizes, where my body decided it wanted to get rid of breakfast and an old chap asked me if I was OK. The following weekend Capt, Purser and I did our first Sunday ride, and I remember my legs feeling tired before I had even left the village, and we all felt incredibly pleased with ourselves after we had done 20 miles.
Fast forward to today. I got on my bike and cycled to Devizes over the 3 peaks (Potterne). I was in the centre of Devizes before I even realised it, I had been away with the fairies, thinking about this, that and the other. Not even out of breath, and no sign of fatigue. I then went round Rowde, back way to Sells Green and up Spout, again no problem at all, not even out of breath. I have started using 11th gear on these hills rather than granny gear that I started off using. I got home, had a shower, and felt like I had just got up. No aches, no pains, no tiredness, nothing.
The same was true on Monday when I cycled to work. I cycled there, cycled back, not tired, just feeling great.
I have lost nearly 1.5 stone and gone down 3 inches on my waistline. I am still on (just - see a recent post) on course to be under 15 stone for the charity ride. My last few cycles have averaged 17 mph.
I am wondering now just how much more fit I can get. Am I in the 'middle' of my fitness curve? I just don't know, seeing as I have never been fit in my life. Time will tell, I suppose.
If I think back to my first real cycle, where I dropped the car off at the garage in Chippenham and cycled the 2 miles to work. It was a tiring experience, but one that I got a lot of satisfaction from. I was, however, very tired after the ride. I then go back to when I cycled to Devizes, where my body decided it wanted to get rid of breakfast and an old chap asked me if I was OK. The following weekend Capt, Purser and I did our first Sunday ride, and I remember my legs feeling tired before I had even left the village, and we all felt incredibly pleased with ourselves after we had done 20 miles.
Fast forward to today. I got on my bike and cycled to Devizes over the 3 peaks (Potterne). I was in the centre of Devizes before I even realised it, I had been away with the fairies, thinking about this, that and the other. Not even out of breath, and no sign of fatigue. I then went round Rowde, back way to Sells Green and up Spout, again no problem at all, not even out of breath. I have started using 11th gear on these hills rather than granny gear that I started off using. I got home, had a shower, and felt like I had just got up. No aches, no pains, no tiredness, nothing.
The same was true on Monday when I cycled to work. I cycled there, cycled back, not tired, just feeling great.
I have lost nearly 1.5 stone and gone down 3 inches on my waistline. I am still on (just - see a recent post) on course to be under 15 stone for the charity ride. My last few cycles have averaged 17 mph.
I am wondering now just how much more fit I can get. Am I in the 'middle' of my fitness curve? I just don't know, seeing as I have never been fit in my life. Time will tell, I suppose.
Tuesday 18 May 2010
I Seem to have Plateaued!
Well, quite a successful few days since my last post. I did an 18 miler on Weds (with a stop off at the Brewery for a pint or two and a Beer Fest wash up meeting). On Thursday I did a 14 miler in the morning, then Friday I cycled to and from work. I took a new route which adds a further 10 miles on, and cycled up Bowden Hill on the way home.
Saturday I did another 14 miler, and then that was it for the weekend seeing as it was my daughters birthday celebrations (house full of kids, sleepovers, cinema, swimming....). Capt and Purser did some hill climbs on Sunday morning, and stared at young fillies through shop windows in Lacock (imagine looking round and seeing them peering at you whilst dribbling cream soda down their chins. She is probably in counselling as I type).
Yesterday I cycled to work again, and then today a short 8 miler so that I could get back early for my daughter to open her pressies.
Thing is, I feel absolutely great. Even after my cycles to and from work I don't ache, and my legs don't feel at all tired. I certainly don't have any fear of 75 miles a day (although I know it will hurt). Interestingly my knees are starting to ache a bit, but nothing major.
What has happened though is that my weight has plateaued. I have now been round about 15 stone 4 for a couple of weeks. Not really sure what is happening here. I still have that target of getting under 15 stone for the big ride.
Need to work harder.
Saturday I did another 14 miler, and then that was it for the weekend seeing as it was my daughters birthday celebrations (house full of kids, sleepovers, cinema, swimming....). Capt and Purser did some hill climbs on Sunday morning, and stared at young fillies through shop windows in Lacock (imagine looking round and seeing them peering at you whilst dribbling cream soda down their chins. She is probably in counselling as I type).
Yesterday I cycled to work again, and then today a short 8 miler so that I could get back early for my daughter to open her pressies.
Thing is, I feel absolutely great. Even after my cycles to and from work I don't ache, and my legs don't feel at all tired. I certainly don't have any fear of 75 miles a day (although I know it will hurt). Interestingly my knees are starting to ache a bit, but nothing major.
What has happened though is that my weight has plateaued. I have now been round about 15 stone 4 for a couple of weeks. Not really sure what is happening here. I still have that target of getting under 15 stone for the big ride.
Need to work harder.
Tuesday 11 May 2010
I Need More Hills!
Apologies, regular readers, for the delay in writing this blog, but I have been busy you see, busy cycling, busy raising money, and busy planning our trip!
To get up to date since my last post, on Bank Holiday Monday (the 3rd May), Capt and I went for a 45 miler without Purser, who had a horrible cold. Bless him.
Capt fancied a trip to a hill he never managed to get up as a kid, near the Dumpost Inn (if that's how you spell it). So we met up at 7:45 at the bottom of Caen Hill, went out via Bromham, Sandy Lane and then to the hill. It was steeper than a 1 in 4, but we both made it up in record time (Capt even overtook me at one point, but I soon caught him up again :D). Then we went on the cycle track between Chippenham and Calne which is a super ride, very flat and well maintained. I took Capt on a trip up memory lane in Calne, as we cycled round a few old haunts of his from when he was a child (he seemed to spend a lot of time in back alleys)!
We then went round Stockley, up Sandy Lane again, and down Bowden Hill. Wow, what a ride! About a mile, brilliant downhill, and straight away we were saying that we needed to go up it, but perhaps next week. To celebrate, we had a Cream Soda from the Post Office in Lacock, then went back home via Gastard, Whitley, Semington and the canal. When we got back to Seend we decided to do Bollands Hill (well if we can do that after 40 miles then we are in good shape), so we did! Straight up, no messing. Hurrah!
After that I decided to go out every day, so Tuesday I did a 14 miler in the morning, Weds I did a trip to Seend to the pub (where we discussed strategy and drew up a list for the trip), Thursday I did another 14 miler in the morning, and Friday I cycled to work. And back. Brill.
Saturday I spent with the kids, so the next ride was Sunday, where we decided t do every hill we could think of, including Bowden! Purser drew up a super route which took us from Bulkington through Trowbridge, up the hill at Farleigh Hungerford, down to Iford where we took a look at the river. Then we set off and round the corner came the steepest hill I have ever come across! Capt was wheel spinning, Purser couldn't get it in the right gear, and I pushed on to the top in granny gear, standing up! An incredible hill!
We then went down to Freshford and got lost looking for the road to Limpley Stoke. When we finally got there we had a banana break and then set off up towards Bradford on Avon. Now then, that is a looooong hill, I would say, from bottom to top, at least 1.5 miles. It was a long, hard slog! Then over to Neston via Atworth, and over to Lacock, where we had another Cream Soda (well, Capt and I did) and a finger of fudge.
Then we set off up Bowden. What a hill. It is steep and long. It gets steeper about 3/4 of the way up. It was a real trial, but again we made it, puffing a touch at the top. Our reward was downhill all the way to Bromham, then we finished off with Spout Lane (so called, we reckon, because there is a spring there which means that the road is always wet). We bid our farewells and then back home. Brill.
So, almost up to date, except to say that I didn't cycle yesterday but I did give my bike a service. Tightened the brakes, cleaned and oiled the chain, all lovely and shiny. This morning I did 14 miles.
In total I am now 15 stone 5, and have cycled 730 miles since the start of March.
What I need now is more hills. More bigguns. I'm getting to quite like them, which I tought would never, ever happen!
To get up to date since my last post, on Bank Holiday Monday (the 3rd May), Capt and I went for a 45 miler without Purser, who had a horrible cold. Bless him.
Capt fancied a trip to a hill he never managed to get up as a kid, near the Dumpost Inn (if that's how you spell it). So we met up at 7:45 at the bottom of Caen Hill, went out via Bromham, Sandy Lane and then to the hill. It was steeper than a 1 in 4, but we both made it up in record time (Capt even overtook me at one point, but I soon caught him up again :D). Then we went on the cycle track between Chippenham and Calne which is a super ride, very flat and well maintained. I took Capt on a trip up memory lane in Calne, as we cycled round a few old haunts of his from when he was a child (he seemed to spend a lot of time in back alleys)!
We then went round Stockley, up Sandy Lane again, and down Bowden Hill. Wow, what a ride! About a mile, brilliant downhill, and straight away we were saying that we needed to go up it, but perhaps next week. To celebrate, we had a Cream Soda from the Post Office in Lacock, then went back home via Gastard, Whitley, Semington and the canal. When we got back to Seend we decided to do Bollands Hill (well if we can do that after 40 miles then we are in good shape), so we did! Straight up, no messing. Hurrah!
After that I decided to go out every day, so Tuesday I did a 14 miler in the morning, Weds I did a trip to Seend to the pub (where we discussed strategy and drew up a list for the trip), Thursday I did another 14 miler in the morning, and Friday I cycled to work. And back. Brill.
Saturday I spent with the kids, so the next ride was Sunday, where we decided t do every hill we could think of, including Bowden! Purser drew up a super route which took us from Bulkington through Trowbridge, up the hill at Farleigh Hungerford, down to Iford where we took a look at the river. Then we set off and round the corner came the steepest hill I have ever come across! Capt was wheel spinning, Purser couldn't get it in the right gear, and I pushed on to the top in granny gear, standing up! An incredible hill!
We then went down to Freshford and got lost looking for the road to Limpley Stoke. When we finally got there we had a banana break and then set off up towards Bradford on Avon. Now then, that is a looooong hill, I would say, from bottom to top, at least 1.5 miles. It was a long, hard slog! Then over to Neston via Atworth, and over to Lacock, where we had another Cream Soda (well, Capt and I did) and a finger of fudge.
Then we set off up Bowden. What a hill. It is steep and long. It gets steeper about 3/4 of the way up. It was a real trial, but again we made it, puffing a touch at the top. Our reward was downhill all the way to Bromham, then we finished off with Spout Lane (so called, we reckon, because there is a spring there which means that the road is always wet). We bid our farewells and then back home. Brill.
So, almost up to date, except to say that I didn't cycle yesterday but I did give my bike a service. Tightened the brakes, cleaned and oiled the chain, all lovely and shiny. This morning I did 14 miles.
In total I am now 15 stone 5, and have cycled 730 miles since the start of March.
What I need now is more hills. More bigguns. I'm getting to quite like them, which I tought would never, ever happen!
Thursday 29 April 2010
About 1 Stone Gone, 500 Miles Under My Belt
Well, last night I cycled up to the Seend Beer Festival setup to put barrels on the scaffolding (41 beers this year). On the way there I clocked up 500 miles on my milo :D Whoohoo! That's since the start of March.
Then this morning I weighed in at 15 stone 7 lbs. Fantastic! Well on my way to getting below 15 stone by the time we go on the charity ride. Perhaps I'll even get to 14 and a half stone. That would be brilliant, and the weight that Capt is aiming for. I do have some trouble though trying to balance weight loss food/energy or cycling food. Still, it seems to be working.
Not much cycling today. Thought I would give myself a day off - my legs are rather tired, and tomorrow I shall be cycling to work again. I have put together a nice back road route totalling about 18 miles each way. Looking forward to it.
My wife says I have curves now where I have never had them. Lost some bad curves, added some good ones :D
Then this morning I weighed in at 15 stone 7 lbs. Fantastic! Well on my way to getting below 15 stone by the time we go on the charity ride. Perhaps I'll even get to 14 and a half stone. That would be brilliant, and the weight that Capt is aiming for. I do have some trouble though trying to balance weight loss food/energy or cycling food. Still, it seems to be working.
Not much cycling today. Thought I would give myself a day off - my legs are rather tired, and tomorrow I shall be cycling to work again. I have put together a nice back road route totalling about 18 miles each way. Looking forward to it.
My wife says I have curves now where I have never had them. Lost some bad curves, added some good ones :D
Tuesday 27 April 2010
It's for Charity, Mate!
So, the dates and places are set.
Friday 18th June leave Start Point on the south east tip of Devon. By Sunday the 20th we will have reached Mortehoe, the north west tip of Devon. Approx 150 miles, taking in Dartmoor on the way.
We may be able to reach Mortehoe by Saturday eve. That would be an extra achievement!
Friday 18th June leave Start Point on the south east tip of Devon. By Sunday the 20th we will have reached Mortehoe, the north west tip of Devon. Approx 150 miles, taking in Dartmoor on the way.
We may be able to reach Mortehoe by Saturday eve. That would be an extra achievement!
The Bonk?
Went out for a 50 miler on Sunday with Capt and Purser. We were having good fun up until Purser's route took us up the hill at Cliffe Pypard - crikey it's a steep one! We were about 20 miles in at this point and the hill went on and on. Trouble was I couldn't get my bike into gears 1-7, so three quarters of the way up I had to stop. Capt was behind me as well and having gear jumping probs so he dismounted too.
I managed to get the chain into the lowest front cog and into 1st gear. At this point, going the other way, were loads of 'professional' looking cyclists, looking at poor old Capt and I with a touch of disdain. So, I tried and set off in 1st gear, but with the torque the front wheel lifted off and I almost wheelied into a cyclist going the other way! I tried again and ended up trying to ride up the bank by the side of the road! So, with a touch of disappointment, Capt and I walked the last 20 yards.
Trouble was, unknown to us, I had punctured my tyre when wheelieing up the bank. A mile or so further on Purser spotted it so we stopped for 10 mins while I changed the inner tube.
The new inner tube was a touch dodgy to say the least! It was like riding a circus bike, I was bouncing up and down caused by a bulge in the inner tube/tyre. I managed to get to Avebury but then we noticed that the tyre was deflating again! Oh woe. I was getting quite tired by now, perhaps psychological, perhaps physical with the amount of tyre friction on the road. So we pumped again, another couple of miles, and it had gone down again :(. Luckily Capt had another tube, so we put that on, and life was much better. Trouble was I was shattered, and still with about 20 miles still to go!
I struggled on, but I had no energy at all. Just running on empty. We managed to get to Devizes where I got a choccie bar and an energy drink and felt much better, but still I was out of gas. Got home about half an hour later and fell asleep for about half an hour after a long soak. Was it the famous 'Bonk'? Not sure, but I was definitely out of energy.
Thing is, later in the day I felt fine. A bit tired, but fine. I decided that I need to build my stamina, so Monday eve I went out for a 10 miler round the three peaks, and then this morning another 13 miler, three peaks plus Bromham and Spout Lane. That's it, cycle every day from now on unless I have a *really* good reason not to.
Not sure if I mentioned the date of the charity ride - I'll post that in a mo...
I managed to get the chain into the lowest front cog and into 1st gear. At this point, going the other way, were loads of 'professional' looking cyclists, looking at poor old Capt and I with a touch of disdain. So, I tried and set off in 1st gear, but with the torque the front wheel lifted off and I almost wheelied into a cyclist going the other way! I tried again and ended up trying to ride up the bank by the side of the road! So, with a touch of disappointment, Capt and I walked the last 20 yards.
Trouble was, unknown to us, I had punctured my tyre when wheelieing up the bank. A mile or so further on Purser spotted it so we stopped for 10 mins while I changed the inner tube.
The new inner tube was a touch dodgy to say the least! It was like riding a circus bike, I was bouncing up and down caused by a bulge in the inner tube/tyre. I managed to get to Avebury but then we noticed that the tyre was deflating again! Oh woe. I was getting quite tired by now, perhaps psychological, perhaps physical with the amount of tyre friction on the road. So we pumped again, another couple of miles, and it had gone down again :(. Luckily Capt had another tube, so we put that on, and life was much better. Trouble was I was shattered, and still with about 20 miles still to go!
I struggled on, but I had no energy at all. Just running on empty. We managed to get to Devizes where I got a choccie bar and an energy drink and felt much better, but still I was out of gas. Got home about half an hour later and fell asleep for about half an hour after a long soak. Was it the famous 'Bonk'? Not sure, but I was definitely out of energy.
Thing is, later in the day I felt fine. A bit tired, but fine. I decided that I need to build my stamina, so Monday eve I went out for a 10 miler round the three peaks, and then this morning another 13 miler, three peaks plus Bromham and Spout Lane. That's it, cycle every day from now on unless I have a *really* good reason not to.
Not sure if I mentioned the date of the charity ride - I'll post that in a mo...
Thursday 22 April 2010
King of the Mountains!
Last Sunday when we were on our first Epic ride, Purser and I were talking about what it will take to be fit enough for the full charity ride. The thought was that if we could do Bell Hill, Bollands Hill, Inmarsh and then Spout Lane, twice, in under 1hr 15mins then we would be on to a winner. So tonight I thought I would give it a go!
It's worth saying first that I hadn't ridden from Sunday to last night when I cycled to Seend to go the pub and get our trip organised. It felt good to be out on the bike again, but I thought that given the state of my body after the cycle on Sunday I would have a bit of a rest.
So, tonight, I got to the bottom of Bell Hill by the farm and set my stopwatch. Then I went for it. Up Bell Hill - no probs. Down the Pelch and had a quick 2 mins chat with Capt who was in his garden drinking Studley Gold Cider :). The round and up Bollands. Still felt good. Down Bell Hill and up Inmarsh, sucking in loads of bugs on the way! Then down to Seend Fork, along to Sells Green and up Spout Lane. No probs again. Back down Inmarsh, checked my watch, 33 mins! So I went for it again, up, down, up, down, up, down, up, down, back at the farmhouse at a time of 1hr 7 mins! No longer the second time than the first. Hurrah!
So I now declare myself ready to take on the hills on Devon. Bring 'em on!
As an added bonus I have now clocked up over 400 miles since the start of March. Cool.
It's worth saying first that I hadn't ridden from Sunday to last night when I cycled to Seend to go the pub and get our trip organised. It felt good to be out on the bike again, but I thought that given the state of my body after the cycle on Sunday I would have a bit of a rest.
So, tonight, I got to the bottom of Bell Hill by the farm and set my stopwatch. Then I went for it. Up Bell Hill - no probs. Down the Pelch and had a quick 2 mins chat with Capt who was in his garden drinking Studley Gold Cider :). The round and up Bollands. Still felt good. Down Bell Hill and up Inmarsh, sucking in loads of bugs on the way! Then down to Seend Fork, along to Sells Green and up Spout Lane. No probs again. Back down Inmarsh, checked my watch, 33 mins! So I went for it again, up, down, up, down, up, down, up, down, back at the farmhouse at a time of 1hr 7 mins! No longer the second time than the first. Hurrah!
So I now declare myself ready to take on the hills on Devon. Bring 'em on!
As an added bonus I have now clocked up over 400 miles since the start of March. Cool.
Monday 19 April 2010
Done! The first 50 miler!
Went out yesterday with Capt, Purser and Gandalf, and did a grand tour of Wiltshire. Took in Devizes, then the vale of Pewsey and into Pewsey itself, then back out and up near Calne and back home.
We got to Seend and I left the chaps, then went round via Bulkington to make up my 50 miles, getting home with a 50.5 registering on my 'puter. Brill!
Only trouble is that I felt absolutely knackered, both yesterday and still today. I was useless yesterday afternoon, could hardly stay awake but if I tried to doze off my legs hurt too much, my back ached, my head ached!
Not much better today. What I do know is that if this happens when we are on 'The Ride' I'm going to be in trouble.
Still, nil desperandum! Having a day off today, back tomorrow for a short cycle to keep the legs moving.
We got to Seend and I left the chaps, then went round via Bulkington to make up my 50 miles, getting home with a 50.5 registering on my 'puter. Brill!
Only trouble is that I felt absolutely knackered, both yesterday and still today. I was useless yesterday afternoon, could hardly stay awake but if I tried to doze off my legs hurt too much, my back ached, my head ached!
Not much better today. What I do know is that if this happens when we are on 'The Ride' I'm going to be in trouble.
Still, nil desperandum! Having a day off today, back tomorrow for a short cycle to keep the legs moving.
Saturday 17 April 2010
I'm Shrinking!
Well, done a fair bit of cycling since my last post.
I took my daughters out for a cycle on Weds. They did really well, but it took an hour to go 6 miles (not surprising given their little legs) so I didn't really get a workout.
Feeling rather guilty on Thursday I got uber early and did a 15 miler. Three peaks to Devizes, along the canal to Seend then conquered the north face of Everest (Bollands Hill - I hadn't done this to date only because I hadn't been round that way). Funny how once I conquered Westbury White Horse all the other seemingly insurmountable hills now look like pimples!
Then yesterday I went out in the morning and did 9 miles, out towards West Lavington and then up through Great Cheverill and Erlestoke. A nice little route, and one that I was glad of as I was feeling so tired. Then in the evning I did another 9 miles, this time out to Seend, up Bell Hill, down past Capt and Purser's houses, up Bollands and back home. No problemo!
And the result of my weeks activities? I am now lighter than I have been since 2004 and 15 stone 10! Oh, to get under that 15 stone mark for the bike ride....!
I took my daughters out for a cycle on Weds. They did really well, but it took an hour to go 6 miles (not surprising given their little legs) so I didn't really get a workout.
Feeling rather guilty on Thursday I got uber early and did a 15 miler. Three peaks to Devizes, along the canal to Seend then conquered the north face of Everest (Bollands Hill - I hadn't done this to date only because I hadn't been round that way). Funny how once I conquered Westbury White Horse all the other seemingly insurmountable hills now look like pimples!
Then yesterday I went out in the morning and did 9 miles, out towards West Lavington and then up through Great Cheverill and Erlestoke. A nice little route, and one that I was glad of as I was feeling so tired. Then in the evning I did another 9 miles, this time out to Seend, up Bell Hill, down past Capt and Purser's houses, up Bollands and back home. No problemo!
And the result of my weeks activities? I am now lighter than I have been since 2004 and 15 stone 10! Oh, to get under that 15 stone mark for the bike ride....!
Tuesday 13 April 2010
Of Weight Loss and Small Routes
Well, only did a 6 miler yesterday, and am cycling to skittles tonight. This is down to my legs recovering from the White Horse extravaganza on Sunday! Mind you, I'm going up Bell Hill to skittles, that's going to seem like a small hillock now :D I'm considering cycling to work either tomorrow or Thursday as the roads are quiet with it being Easter holidays (schools are closed).
Lost a bit more weight, but not much. I still reckon my body is removing fat and adding muscle, so hopefully the weight loss will speed up. I'm eating half as much as I used to, and doing loads of cycling, so I must be doing something right!
Lost a bit more weight, but not much. I still reckon my body is removing fat and adding muscle, so hopefully the weight loss will speed up. I'm eating half as much as I used to, and doing loads of cycling, so I must be doing something right!
Sunday 11 April 2010
Conquered! Westbury White Horse!
Met up with Purser (Gandalf stayed at home, he was washing his beard or something) and we went out on a roundabout route to Westbury White Horse. Nice day, although there was a keen, cold breeze.
My legs were still tired after last Friday, and psychologically I was at a disadvantage, however we got to the bottom on Bratton and pushed on up through the village. My legs were burning by the time we met the main road where we had a 2 minute break and then set off up to the top of the White Horse.
Gosh what a climb! Half a mile of constant, unforgiving climb. Purser set off in front, I put it in 5th gear and stood up for the first bit. As soon as it levelled off a touch I sat down in 2nd gear, then stood up again for the steep part which was actually most of the hill. The killer was a really steep bit that you could see from almost the bottom of the hill, but once this was done you round a corner and there is another, even steeper bit, which takes you right to the top.
I made it. Purser was there and snapped a photo of me groaning and puffing and panting past. We both agreed that if it wasn't for the fact that we were both there we would have stopped :D. But we didn't, we made it, and what an achievement it is! Back home I had done 22 miles.
Here's me, trying to suck in all the air in Wiltshire as I got to the top...
And here's Purser and I at the top - taken by Purser on timed photography (he even had the energy to sprint across the road in the 5 second timeout)...
However, now back at home, my legs are killing me. Still, a medicinal beer is helping with the pain. Next cycle is probably going to be Tuesday (last skittles game of the season), although I might do a shortie tomorrow evening to keep the engine in working order.
My legs were still tired after last Friday, and psychologically I was at a disadvantage, however we got to the bottom on Bratton and pushed on up through the village. My legs were burning by the time we met the main road where we had a 2 minute break and then set off up to the top of the White Horse.
Gosh what a climb! Half a mile of constant, unforgiving climb. Purser set off in front, I put it in 5th gear and stood up for the first bit. As soon as it levelled off a touch I sat down in 2nd gear, then stood up again for the steep part which was actually most of the hill. The killer was a really steep bit that you could see from almost the bottom of the hill, but once this was done you round a corner and there is another, even steeper bit, which takes you right to the top.
I made it. Purser was there and snapped a photo of me groaning and puffing and panting past. We both agreed that if it wasn't for the fact that we were both there we would have stopped :D. But we didn't, we made it, and what an achievement it is! Back home I had done 22 miles.
Here's me, trying to suck in all the air in Wiltshire as I got to the top...
And here's Purser and I at the top - taken by Purser on timed photography (he even had the energy to sprint across the road in the 5 second timeout)...
However, now back at home, my legs are killing me. Still, a medicinal beer is helping with the pain. Next cycle is probably going to be Tuesday (last skittles game of the season), although I might do a shortie tomorrow evening to keep the engine in working order.
Meditation and Purchases
Tell you what I find quite amazing, it's the thinking time that you get when you are cycling on your own.
It's like top quality meditation. I find my mind wandering off and sorting things out. It's almost, at times, like an out of body experience (whoa, hang on, did I really just cycle that last 5 miles?).
Off out this morning with Purser and Gandalf, although my legs are still sore from Friday. Going to do some hill climbs. I purchased a few things yesterday...
toe clips
pannier rack
upright handlebar grips (the ones that sort of stick up at the end of the handlebars)
I had to drill a couple of holes for the clips as the pedals weren't of the right sort, but along with a couple of washers it has done a decent job.
So, let's see how these toe clips help me climb these pesky hills!
It's like top quality meditation. I find my mind wandering off and sorting things out. It's almost, at times, like an out of body experience (whoa, hang on, did I really just cycle that last 5 miles?).
Off out this morning with Purser and Gandalf, although my legs are still sore from Friday. Going to do some hill climbs. I purchased a few things yesterday...
toe clips
pannier rack
upright handlebar grips (the ones that sort of stick up at the end of the handlebars)
I had to drill a couple of holes for the clips as the pedals weren't of the right sort, but along with a couple of washers it has done a decent job.
So, let's see how these toe clips help me climb these pesky hills!
Friday 9 April 2010
Back in the Sadlle
Those most observant of you will have noticed that my blogging has dried up for a week or so. This is down to one thing - holidays!
I wanted to take my bike, and bought a superduper bike rack that you can fit to a tow hitch and then still pull a trailer (brill for the trailer tent). Trouble was Capt and I couldn't fit it, and then on Easter Friday the garage was shut so I couldn't get them to fit it either!
So, what could I do? I ended up having a lovely relaxing week in Lyme Regis. I took my trainers in case I fancied a run, but my plantar fasciitus played up on the very first day, so I had to make do with some beer drinking exercises instead! Tell you what though, those hills are viscious around there! We were in the middle of the village, and whichever way was a huuuuge climb to get up onto the coast road.
After my previous exercises my legs felt rather tired for the first five days, and then then just felt a touch dead, so I came back earlier today with a touch of trepidation and was on my bike within 30 mins and back out on the road.
And how brilliant it was! My legs were like pistons. I reckon I was overdoing it and not letting my legs recover, so a week off was perfect. I shot up to Devizes, went out on the Andover road, turned off cross country and went through Woodborough, then along the canal at Honeystreet (not great as the towpath is just grass there, so it was only for a mile or so), then to All Cannings, up onto the road and back to Devizes.
That was about 23 miles, but my legs were still full of beans, so I went round Roundway way :D, and up to the white horse! Whoa, big hill, I was knackered at the end, but I did it. This will make up for Capt and Purser conquering Bell Hill earlier in the week (well done chappies)!
Then, back down to Rowde and home. 31 miles in all, and I feel great.
Hurrah! Back on track again!
I wanted to take my bike, and bought a superduper bike rack that you can fit to a tow hitch and then still pull a trailer (brill for the trailer tent). Trouble was Capt and I couldn't fit it, and then on Easter Friday the garage was shut so I couldn't get them to fit it either!
So, what could I do? I ended up having a lovely relaxing week in Lyme Regis. I took my trainers in case I fancied a run, but my plantar fasciitus played up on the very first day, so I had to make do with some beer drinking exercises instead! Tell you what though, those hills are viscious around there! We were in the middle of the village, and whichever way was a huuuuge climb to get up onto the coast road.
After my previous exercises my legs felt rather tired for the first five days, and then then just felt a touch dead, so I came back earlier today with a touch of trepidation and was on my bike within 30 mins and back out on the road.
And how brilliant it was! My legs were like pistons. I reckon I was overdoing it and not letting my legs recover, so a week off was perfect. I shot up to Devizes, went out on the Andover road, turned off cross country and went through Woodborough, then along the canal at Honeystreet (not great as the towpath is just grass there, so it was only for a mile or so), then to All Cannings, up onto the road and back to Devizes.
That was about 23 miles, but my legs were still full of beans, so I went round Roundway way :D, and up to the white horse! Whoa, big hill, I was knackered at the end, but I did it. This will make up for Capt and Purser conquering Bell Hill earlier in the week (well done chappies)!
Then, back down to Rowde and home. 31 miles in all, and I feel great.
Hurrah! Back on track again!
Thursday 1 April 2010
Whoohoooo!
I did it! This morning I defeated the south face of Everest, better known as Bell Hill. I set off from home at 6:15 and felt pretty good. On the way to the hill a beautiful Barn Owl flew past about 3 metres away. "Got to be a good omen", I thought.
So I got to the bottom of the hill and put the bike into 4th gear, stood up in my pedals, and went for it. A bit of puffing and panting and a few minutes later and I was at the summit, with a big grin on my face.
I sort of fancied the north face afterwards (Bollands Hill), but decided against it. I’ll do that next time.Hail or Shine
Yesterday I did the three peaks and then cycled to skittles in the evening. 18 miles in all. Both cycles were made interesting given the weather!
On the three peaks in the morning I cycled through Devizes and then came down Caen Hill just a huge hailstorm hit. The wind was blowing so hard that I stopped – admittedly I was freewheeling – but even so, normally I go down there at about 25 miles an hour!
When I got home my legs were red raw with the hail.
Then in the evening I get dressed up in my waterproofs and cycle up to skittles. Half way through, again the hail! Fortunately it wasn’t as bad as earlier in the day, but with the effort the south face of Everest still beat me. Next time….On the way back home I was interested in a vehicle coming towards me with flashing lights, a lorry or something. It was only when I was level with it that I realised it was gritting lorry! Tell you what, it hurts that stuff, when it hits you full in the face!
Tuesday 30 March 2010
Mud, Glorious Mud!
I did a 10 miler last night and another this morning. Last night was brilliant, I went the three peaks, through Devizes, and then joined the canal. It had rained during the day and the tow path was a touch muddy. Also they are doing some 'stuff' on Caen Hill, and that was like a quagmire!
By the time I had reached the bottom I was covered head to toe in mud. I looked like I had been wrestling. I need a front mudgard! Having said that though, I have one of those rear mudgards that mountain bikers use, and whilst it caught some of the stuff, it certainly didn't catch all.
This morning I did the three peaks back to front, back up the main road at Caen Hill. Crikey it's a long one, with a bit of 'extra steepness' just before the top. Killer.
Saw Capt, Purser and Gandalf last night. They all survived Sunday. Capt and Gandalf were looking half dead on Sunday after our marathon, not surprising seeing as Gandalf hadn't ridden anywhere near so far in about 5 years and Capt's bike needs some work on slipping gears and slick tyres instead of Mountain Bike ones.
By the time I had reached the bottom I was covered head to toe in mud. I looked like I had been wrestling. I need a front mudgard! Having said that though, I have one of those rear mudgards that mountain bikers use, and whilst it caught some of the stuff, it certainly didn't catch all.
This morning I did the three peaks back to front, back up the main road at Caen Hill. Crikey it's a long one, with a bit of 'extra steepness' just before the top. Killer.
Saw Capt, Purser and Gandalf last night. They all survived Sunday. Capt and Gandalf were looking half dead on Sunday after our marathon, not surprising seeing as Gandalf hadn't ridden anywhere near so far in about 5 years and Capt's bike needs some work on slipping gears and slick tyres instead of Mountain Bike ones.
Sunday 28 March 2010
100 Miles in a Week!
Hurrah!
I have done, as of today, 102 miles since Monday :D I am feeling very pleased with myself.
Yesterday I did a 15 miler, not too strenuous, through some of the villages and with a few hills. Very enjoyable, and just over an hour.
Today I went out with Capt and Purser, and Gandalf (who may or may not be joining us in June for the cycle). Purser put together a gruelling schedule, with a couple of steep, long climbs. I am pleased to report that I completed these without having to stop. 29 miles later I got home, a little tired, but not too bad.
I weighed myself this morning, and for the first time in 5 years I am under 16 stone. Hurrah! I am a bit worried as next week I am off on my hols for a week, but I have purchased a cycle carrier and will take my bike with me. Have bike, will travel :)
I have done, as of today, 102 miles since Monday :D I am feeling very pleased with myself.
Yesterday I did a 15 miler, not too strenuous, through some of the villages and with a few hills. Very enjoyable, and just over an hour.
Today I went out with Capt and Purser, and Gandalf (who may or may not be joining us in June for the cycle). Purser put together a gruelling schedule, with a couple of steep, long climbs. I am pleased to report that I completed these without having to stop. 29 miles later I got home, a little tired, but not too bad.
I weighed myself this morning, and for the first time in 5 years I am under 16 stone. Hurrah! I am a bit worried as next week I am off on my hols for a week, but I have purchased a cycle carrier and will take my bike with me. Have bike, will travel :)
Friday 26 March 2010
Dead Legs, Better Lungs and Victor Meldrew
I did what will now be known as the three peaks this morning. This is the one where I met the old chap who asked me if I was OK in early March.
I set off and felt fine, but at the first sign of a hill my legs felt dead. Completely dead. 'Oh dear', I thought to myself, 'this isn't good'. Anyways, I pushed on through the pain and burning and reached the top of the first hill.
The second hill was a touch better, still burning, but a bit more power in the legs. By the third hill I was motoring. I even went up it in 8th gear (seeing as my bike refused to go down into first), and reached the top in better style than ever. I guess the legs were full of *some kind of stuff your body shoves in there to do some good* after my cycle to work on Wednesday.
I have seen a real improvement in my lungs over the past little while. It's interesting, but late in the evening I have a bit of a cough for a couple of hours. I have put this down to my body clearing out lung passages that haven't been used. Ever.
So, the three peaks out of the way I came back through one of the villages. At one point a car drove past at top speed and then slowed right down. 'What's going on here' I remember thinking, just as it decided to turn left, about 3 yards in front of me! I slammed on my brakes, it *slowly* turned into the entrance (through which it was going at a slow speed because it was blind and I expect didn't want to cause an accident :D ), and then it was off. I didn't even have time to wave my fist. If only they had waited for, like, a millisecond they could have turned in after I had gone past. 'I don't belieeeeeeve iiiiiit'.
Am I going to turn into the Victor Meldrew of the roads? Tell you what, my wife would not be at all surprised.
I set off and felt fine, but at the first sign of a hill my legs felt dead. Completely dead. 'Oh dear', I thought to myself, 'this isn't good'. Anyways, I pushed on through the pain and burning and reached the top of the first hill.
The second hill was a touch better, still burning, but a bit more power in the legs. By the third hill I was motoring. I even went up it in 8th gear (seeing as my bike refused to go down into first), and reached the top in better style than ever. I guess the legs were full of *some kind of stuff your body shoves in there to do some good* after my cycle to work on Wednesday.
I have seen a real improvement in my lungs over the past little while. It's interesting, but late in the evening I have a bit of a cough for a couple of hours. I have put this down to my body clearing out lung passages that haven't been used. Ever.
So, the three peaks out of the way I came back through one of the villages. At one point a car drove past at top speed and then slowed right down. 'What's going on here' I remember thinking, just as it decided to turn left, about 3 yards in front of me! I slammed on my brakes, it *slowly* turned into the entrance (through which it was going at a slow speed because it was blind and I expect didn't want to cause an accident :D ), and then it was off. I didn't even have time to wave my fist. If only they had waited for, like, a millisecond they could have turned in after I had gone past. 'I don't belieeeeeeve iiiiiit'.
Am I going to turn into the Victor Meldrew of the roads? Tell you what, my wife would not be at all surprised.
Thursday 25 March 2010
Weight Check
Well, no cycling today - giving the old legs time to recover.
So, weighed myself instead. At the start of March I was 16 stone 7 pounds. I am, as of today, 16 stone 1 pound :D
Keep this up and I will disappear by the end of the year.
It would be great to get under the 15 stone by the time we do the charity ride (which looks like middle of June).
So, weighed myself instead. At the start of March I was 16 stone 7 pounds. I am, as of today, 16 stone 1 pound :D
Keep this up and I will disappear by the end of the year.
It would be great to get under the 15 stone by the time we do the charity ride (which looks like middle of June).
Wednesday 24 March 2010
Whoohooo!
Well, I was a touch nervous. Would I get there, would I get a puncture, would the traffic be OK? I set off at 6:30.
First obstacle was the south face of mount everest. I must admit to having to walk the last 50 yards or so, but I didn't want to tire myself out not knowing what was ahead. Then I was over and careering down the north face. I tried to get right down over the railway bridge without pedalling and was sooooo close, about a foot away give or take and I had to pedal once. Still, to do this I had to go at 36 mph down the north face in the first place. Exciting, but a bit silly.
Then I had to traverse town, which I did with very little problem. I followed this up by playing with the traffic all the way to work, with artic's washing past. To be honest, it really wasn't a problem.
14 miles, and I was there :D Hurrah! It took me one hour, so that's, erm, *counting on all fingers thumbs*, erm, 14 mph :D
Then the trip home. Got changed into my gear, much to the delight of my workmates, and set off at 5:15. I was tired after a mile, and starting to get a bit worried, so I stopped off at town and got a choccie bar. Did the job.
Then it started raining. And getting windy. My glasses got covered in spray and I was having trouble seeing. I ploughed on, but did walk half way up the north face of everest. I finally got home at 6:15, after another 14 miles, which is, erm, abouts, erm, 14mph again :)
I feel very, very pleased with myself! But, I'm not going to cycle to skittles tonight for fear of 'overdoing it' as my grandmother would say. Probably.
P.S. new kit = brill! Very pleased, especially with the new light which can be seen in Normandy. Apparently.
First obstacle was the south face of mount everest. I must admit to having to walk the last 50 yards or so, but I didn't want to tire myself out not knowing what was ahead. Then I was over and careering down the north face. I tried to get right down over the railway bridge without pedalling and was sooooo close, about a foot away give or take and I had to pedal once. Still, to do this I had to go at 36 mph down the north face in the first place. Exciting, but a bit silly.
Then I had to traverse town, which I did with very little problem. I followed this up by playing with the traffic all the way to work, with artic's washing past. To be honest, it really wasn't a problem.
14 miles, and I was there :D Hurrah! It took me one hour, so that's, erm, *counting on all fingers thumbs*, erm, 14 mph :D
Then the trip home. Got changed into my gear, much to the delight of my workmates, and set off at 5:15. I was tired after a mile, and starting to get a bit worried, so I stopped off at town and got a choccie bar. Did the job.
Then it started raining. And getting windy. My glasses got covered in spray and I was having trouble seeing. I ploughed on, but did walk half way up the north face of everest. I finally got home at 6:15, after another 14 miles, which is, erm, abouts, erm, 14mph again :)
I feel very, very pleased with myself! But, I'm not going to cycle to skittles tonight for fear of 'overdoing it' as my grandmother would say. Probably.
P.S. new kit = brill! Very pleased, especially with the new light which can be seen in Normandy. Apparently.
Tuesday 23 March 2010
Big Day Tomorrow
Tuesday 23rd March
Yesterday I did the 10 miler again, over mount everest. I had to stop again, but only for 30 seconds, and quite near the top. Next time, next time...
Went and got the following at lunchtime:
Yellow jacket
Tena lady pants
New light
Inner tubes
Got home and put them on, and the dog went for me! Great, more dog attacks in the weeks to come....
Today I did the lady jogger and old man route again. No problem! I shocked myself, it was so easy. After just a couple of weeks it really is getting easier!
So, tomorrow, I'm cycling all the way to work! 14 miles each way. Am I mad? Probably. Will I enjoy it? Definitely! Will I want to cycle to skittles tomorrow night aswell? Erm, not sure.
This is a real big thing. I said to someone at work at the start of March that I wanted to cycle to work before the end of March. I said it, but didn't quite believe it. If I can pull this off it's a really big deal. Really big.
Yesterday I did the 10 miler again, over mount everest. I had to stop again, but only for 30 seconds, and quite near the top. Next time, next time...
Went and got the following at lunchtime:
Yellow jacket
Tena lady pants
New light
Inner tubes
Got home and put them on, and the dog went for me! Great, more dog attacks in the weeks to come....
Today I did the lady jogger and old man route again. No problem! I shocked myself, it was so easy. After just a couple of weeks it really is getting easier!
So, tomorrow, I'm cycling all the way to work! 14 miles each way. Am I mad? Probably. Will I enjoy it? Definitely! Will I want to cycle to skittles tomorrow night aswell? Erm, not sure.
This is a real big thing. I said to someone at work at the start of March that I wanted to cycle to work before the end of March. I said it, but didn't quite believe it. If I can pull this off it's a really big deal. Really big.
Attack of the Killer Dog
Friday 19th March.
Off to a hotel with the missus later. It's her birthday. Wanted to get a good cycle in before we leave.
So, I did a 15 miler. Along the canal again, avoiding 'mount everest', going nicely.
I the distance is a sheep dog, sees me, runs up and bites my leg! I kick it and shout, but it's having none of it. It bites me again. I kick it, and it looks a bit sheepish (sorry, couldn't resist) and it runs to it's owner who has just appeared from a gap in the hedge.
'Your dog just bit me!' I said, indignant.
'It's OK, he's just rounding you up.' he said, and disappeared back into the hedge.
Rounding me up? Rounding me up? Still, it's all character building.
Isn't it?
Anyways, a good cycle was not spoiled. 15 miles. Brill!
Off to a hotel with the missus later. It's her birthday. Wanted to get a good cycle in before we leave.
So, I did a 15 miler. Along the canal again, avoiding 'mount everest', going nicely.
I the distance is a sheep dog, sees me, runs up and bites my leg! I kick it and shout, but it's having none of it. It bites me again. I kick it, and it looks a bit sheepish (sorry, couldn't resist) and it runs to it's owner who has just appeared from a gap in the hedge.
'Your dog just bit me!' I said, indignant.
'It's OK, he's just rounding you up.' he said, and disappeared back into the hedge.
Rounding me up? Rounding me up? Still, it's all character building.
Isn't it?
Anyways, a good cycle was not spoiled. 15 miles. Brill!
The Male Anatomy
Thursday 18th March.
I'm just going to blurt it out.
My genitals go numb after about 5 mins of cycling!
I'm going to buy some of those lycra shorts with what Capt calls 'built in Tena ladies'.
I'm just going to blurt it out.
My genitals go numb after about 5 mins of cycling!
I'm going to buy some of those lycra shorts with what Capt calls 'built in Tena ladies'.
Dailies and Skittles!
Weds 17th March.
Did 10 miles yesterday, 10 today, both between 6 and 7 am. Then I cycled to skittles! Yep, in the dark. Yep, with a rubbish 'Supermarket home brand' light. Yep, no flourescent kit.
I made it, but my, oh my, it was scary. Our village is really in the middle of nowhere. It was pitch black, no cars, no street lights, a glow worm attached to my handlebars for lighting, and only the sound of lambs bleating in the fields. I awaited the tearing of the werewolfs claws into my back, but it never came.
Still, I was home in record time!
Did 10 miles yesterday, 10 today, both between 6 and 7 am. Then I cycled to skittles! Yep, in the dark. Yep, with a rubbish 'Supermarket home brand' light. Yep, no flourescent kit.
I made it, but my, oh my, it was scary. Our village is really in the middle of nowhere. It was pitch black, no cars, no street lights, a glow worm attached to my handlebars for lighting, and only the sound of lambs bleating in the fields. I awaited the tearing of the werewolfs claws into my back, but it never came.
Still, I was home in record time!
Essential Bike Equipment
Monday 15th March
The list so far...
Spare inner tubes
Tyre levers
Spanners
Spoke spanner
The list so far...
Spare inner tubes
Tyre levers
Spanners
Spoke spanner
Capt and Purser
Sunday 14th March. Let me introduce the other protagonists in this madcap adventure. Capt it the skipper of the skittles team. Purser is the treasurer. T'was they who persuaded me to do this cycling lark.
So, we go out for a cycle. I wasn't sure what to expect. Purser had put together a route on a smashing site 'bikeroutetoaster.com'. Brill, it is. We went to the next village, then out into the countryside. What was in my mind 'a long way', suddenly got eaten up. It is great cycling with mates. In all we cycled 20 miles, until I got a puncture. Fortunately for me we were close to Capt's house, so he popped the bike in the landy and drove me home.
Still, eh, 20 miles! Brilliant!
So, we go out for a cycle. I wasn't sure what to expect. Purser had put together a route on a smashing site 'bikeroutetoaster.com'. Brill, it is. We went to the next village, then out into the countryside. What was in my mind 'a long way', suddenly got eaten up. It is great cycling with mates. In all we cycled 20 miles, until I got a puncture. Fortunately for me we were close to Capt's house, so he popped the bike in the landy and drove me home.
Still, eh, 20 miles! Brilliant!
Second Morning Out
Wednesday 10th March. Did another 10 miles this morning. Nice route, out to the canal and then along, but on the way back is 'mount everest' as it will now always be called. I will conquer it. It is not that long, but it at least a 2:1 (well it feels that way) and after you have done 7 miles it hurts.
Anyways, I stopped only once on the way up, puffing away. But still, I made it. Two morning in a row. I'm getting to like this!
Anyways, I stopped only once on the way up, puffing away. But still, I made it. Two morning in a row. I'm getting to like this!
Morning Glory
Tuesday 9th March. Realising that I need to do more than a few cycles at the weekends, I have decided to start cycling in the mornings. Before work. At 6am.
My body has no idea what is going on, but I'm going to teach it who's boss.
So today I did 8.5 miles in 50 mins. Same route as last time, up round the villages. Got back, a touch worse for wear, but feeling really proud.
My body has no idea what is going on, but I'm going to teach it who's boss.
So today I did 8.5 miles in 50 mins. Same route as last time, up round the villages. Got back, a touch worse for wear, but feeling really proud.
Get Back in the Saddle
Sunday 7th March. 'God its cold. But still, I need to get cycling again.' I'm worried by last experience, but I need to do this.
So, off I go. 8 miles, up a not too steep road, a few villages, not bad, not bad.
I return home happy. And a touch more enthused.
So, off I go. 8 miles, up a not too steep road, a few villages, not bad, not bad.
I return home happy. And a touch more enthused.
Of Young Ladies and Old Men
28th Feb.
Buoyed up by my success fo cycling from the garage, I went for a spin. I thought I would go to our local town from the village I live in and then round in a circle back home via a different route. So that's what I did.
Thing is, between me and the town are three hills. A steep one, a short one, and then a looooooong one. I had watched the first installment of Eddie Izzard doing his 40'od Marathons around the UK the night before, and thought 'well, if he can do that, then at least I can cycle to the local town'. Hmmmmm.
So, first thing. I do the first two hills. Puffing a bit now. On the way downhill to the third hill I pass a lovely young lady who is out for a jog. 'Good for her' I think. I get to the loooooong hill, put the bike in 1st gear, and start the climb.
Half way up, I get passed. I hadn't got off, but I was cycling so slowly that the young lass passed me! Yep, she jogged past me! Oh, how embarrassing! 'I can't stop now' I thought, and pushed on to the top of the hill. 'Whehey!'
2 minutes later I was sitting in the market place. I had lost all strength and the banana I had stuffed down before I left was really threatening to make a guest appearance. So there I was, trying to keep my stomach contents to myself, unable to move, when an old chap, mid 60's wanders up and asks me if I'm OK. 'God' I thought, 'I must look bad!' 'Fine' I mumbled, and off he shuffled, looking rather worried.
After 10 mins my strength came back, and I cycled back home. Downhill, which was nice, and rather handy, as I was beginning to think that the embarrassing 'Darling, can you come and get me' call was on it's way.
I would never have been allowed back on the bike again!
Buoyed up by my success fo cycling from the garage, I went for a spin. I thought I would go to our local town from the village I live in and then round in a circle back home via a different route. So that's what I did.
Thing is, between me and the town are three hills. A steep one, a short one, and then a looooooong one. I had watched the first installment of Eddie Izzard doing his 40'od Marathons around the UK the night before, and thought 'well, if he can do that, then at least I can cycle to the local town'. Hmmmmm.
So, first thing. I do the first two hills. Puffing a bit now. On the way downhill to the third hill I pass a lovely young lady who is out for a jog. 'Good for her' I think. I get to the loooooong hill, put the bike in 1st gear, and start the climb.
Half way up, I get passed. I hadn't got off, but I was cycling so slowly that the young lass passed me! Yep, she jogged past me! Oh, how embarrassing! 'I can't stop now' I thought, and pushed on to the top of the hill. 'Whehey!'
2 minutes later I was sitting in the market place. I had lost all strength and the banana I had stuffed down before I left was really threatening to make a guest appearance. So there I was, trying to keep my stomach contents to myself, unable to move, when an old chap, mid 60's wanders up and asks me if I'm OK. 'God' I thought, 'I must look bad!' 'Fine' I mumbled, and off he shuffled, looking rather worried.
After 10 mins my strength came back, and I cycled back home. Downhill, which was nice, and rather handy, as I was beginning to think that the embarrassing 'Darling, can you come and get me' call was on it's way.
I would never have been allowed back on the bike again!
Modern Technology
Cycle computers. Get one. They are Brill!
I got mine from China off ebay for 99p. It's got more processing power than the lunar module. It tells me how far I have gone since I started cycling, how many miles I did in my last trip, my top speed, my average speed.
Just brilliant.
I got mine from China off ebay for 99p. It's got more processing power than the lunar module. It tells me how far I have gone since I started cycling, how many miles I did in my last trip, my top speed, my average speed.
Just brilliant.
The Car's Got a Poorly Alarm. Bless It.
It's the 26th Feb. The car needs a repair. The garage is over the other side of town. What should I do?
Well, I shoe horned the bike in the bike, and with a whiff of excitement I set off. I dropped the car off and then, yes, I actually did it, I cycled to work! It's only 3 miles, but there is a big (ish) hill in the way, but I still did it. Iwandered into the office to lots of gaping mouths. 'You didn't....' ' I did.....'. Brill.
At lunchtime I cycled back into town! Bought a few ink cartridges for my ink pen, then cycled back to work. I was getting to like this.
After work I cycled back and picked up my car. I had done it. I had cycled 12 miles and I felt really, really good. Start slowly, and you never know where you might end up. I always remember what Sir Ran Fiennes said when he climbed Everest, being 'one step at a time'. That's how I feel, and I have the enthusiasm to push on.
Next cycle - Sunday!
Well, I shoe horned the bike in the bike, and with a whiff of excitement I set off. I dropped the car off and then, yes, I actually did it, I cycled to work! It's only 3 miles, but there is a big (ish) hill in the way, but I still did it. Iwandered into the office to lots of gaping mouths. 'You didn't....' ' I did.....'. Brill.
At lunchtime I cycled back into town! Bought a few ink cartridges for my ink pen, then cycled back to work. I was getting to like this.
After work I cycled back and picked up my car. I had done it. I had cycled 12 miles and I felt really, really good. Start slowly, and you never know where you might end up. I always remember what Sir Ran Fiennes said when he climbed Everest, being 'one step at a time'. That's how I feel, and I have the enthusiasm to push on.
Next cycle - Sunday!
Oi, Fat Lad, Get On Yer Bike!
Hmmm. 40, 16 and a half stone, and mid life crisis. Well, probably a mid life crisis. I've always wondered whether you know if you 'havin' a crisis'. I thought I was having a mid life crisis when I was 36. Is it possible to have two?
Anyways, last time I did any real exercise I was about 15. Just about the time I discovered the opposite sex. And beer. And curry. Sometimes all at the same time :D
I went to college, met my (now) long suffering wife to be, drank a load of Guinness, more beer, discovered wine, ate lots of curry, and before I knew it I had a lovely momento of all my over indulgences - a beautiful beer belly, that gradually swelled to the size I am today!
The interesting thing (well interesting to me) is that it really is just my belly. My legs are sort of normal size. So's my arms. It's just my belly. Just where the quack says it's a 'really bad thing'. The kind that my beautiful 3 daughters amusingly draw like Mr Greedy. Oh, the lovely little tikes (grrr).
Last November a couple of my skittling mates thought it would be a good idea to do a charity cycle to raise money for an all weather surface under the climbing frame in the school playground. They crept up on me after I had (yes, you guessed it) had a few beers. 'Of course' I said. 'Oh dear' I thought. 'Can I?' 'Will I? Well, I had said yes, and I'm not a man to go back on my word.
So, January, on a fine weekend, the bike saw light of day. I bought it a couple of years ago, a mountain bike with front suspension, silver in colour, and with a razor sharp saddle. Lovely. I went out with the kids for a quick cycle. 'Actually, this cycling lark isn't that bad', I thought. A few weekends of cycling with the kids, and I started to get quite excited. 'I can do this'. Slowly but surely.
So here is my blog. The first few posts are a bit of retrospective of my journey up until now.
I'm posting in the hope that some other poor old Mr Greedy might have a read, and get on his bike. And then perhaps another. Why not? A whole country of fat lads getting on their bikes. Brill.
Anyways, last time I did any real exercise I was about 15. Just about the time I discovered the opposite sex. And beer. And curry. Sometimes all at the same time :D
I went to college, met my (now) long suffering wife to be, drank a load of Guinness, more beer, discovered wine, ate lots of curry, and before I knew it I had a lovely momento of all my over indulgences - a beautiful beer belly, that gradually swelled to the size I am today!
The interesting thing (well interesting to me) is that it really is just my belly. My legs are sort of normal size. So's my arms. It's just my belly. Just where the quack says it's a 'really bad thing'. The kind that my beautiful 3 daughters amusingly draw like Mr Greedy. Oh, the lovely little tikes (grrr).
Last November a couple of my skittling mates thought it would be a good idea to do a charity cycle to raise money for an all weather surface under the climbing frame in the school playground. They crept up on me after I had (yes, you guessed it) had a few beers. 'Of course' I said. 'Oh dear' I thought. 'Can I?' 'Will I? Well, I had said yes, and I'm not a man to go back on my word.
So, January, on a fine weekend, the bike saw light of day. I bought it a couple of years ago, a mountain bike with front suspension, silver in colour, and with a razor sharp saddle. Lovely. I went out with the kids for a quick cycle. 'Actually, this cycling lark isn't that bad', I thought. A few weekends of cycling with the kids, and I started to get quite excited. 'I can do this'. Slowly but surely.
So here is my blog. The first few posts are a bit of retrospective of my journey up until now.
I'm posting in the hope that some other poor old Mr Greedy might have a read, and get on his bike. And then perhaps another. Why not? A whole country of fat lads getting on their bikes. Brill.
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