Paul's 100 Mile Challenge - Colorado, Nov 26 2011

The 100 mile challenge I think is a great idea - though it started off as mum's challenge - so she had most input! However when she picked the date in November I knew it was not going to be a very good time for me - right in the middle of World Cup set up in Beaver Creek (my paying job heading up the dye team!) However it was mum's challenge after all - and she didn't want to leave it too long and lose momentum - she gave herself three months to train!! In the end it worked out OK as I had the day off - I had been wondering how I would fit in 100 miles after a day on the mountain! Only trouble was I had worked every day up till then and my bike had no chain. I had tried to go to the bike shop twice but had been caught out by Thanksgiving closing!

So on the day of the ride my first task was to buy a chain. The first shop I tried at 10am was still closed - but fortunately the second was open and so I was able to buy and fit my chain. I also wanted to buy some overboots for my shoes as I knew it was going to be pretty cold out there - however they didn't have my size so I had to settle for toe caps instead - assured they would work just as well!! It was then pointed out that I had snow tyres on my bike - which as it wasnt really that snowy out might not be a good idea - they would really slow me down! So I headed back to the apartment to change tyres and was finally ready to set off.

I headed off on the bike path and immediately found some snow!! Interesting riding through it with my road tyres! I took it easy to start with - just having fun and enjoying being out on my bike again - and being entertained by Richard's tweets telling me how mum, dad and the Roswell crew were doing!! The bike path became a little confusing and so I had to go on to the road. I realised that I was going mainly downhill and that my idea of riding out 50 miles and then back again might not be such a good one - 50 miles back all uphill? Maybe not!! So I decided to turn around when I got to Eagle. After about 10 miles I stopped to put on more clothes - it was much colder than I had expected - colder than it had been up on the mountain all week!!

32 miles at Eagle and I was feeling pretty good! It was uphill now when I turned so harder work of course! However I miscalculated the distance back to Edwards so by the time I arrived my feet were really freezing - to the point I was worried about frostbite! Anyway this made me ride even quicker to try to warm up! So at 55 miles (10 miles further on that I had intended to stop) I was freezing with an empty water bottle - so I had a huge hot chocolate and some water and started to recover - although it took ages for my feet to warm up! Then I rode another 5 miles back to my apartment to get a load of extra clothes.

Then I was ready to head off uphill through Vail to do the 18 miles out, leaving me the final 18 miles downhill - another good plan, or so I thought. Halfway to Vail and the bike path was closed and so I had to take the Highway - but I noticed a shortcut through a gate back onto the bike path - however I ended up riding through 2 inches of snow (again very interesting) only to reach another gate which was closed! So, back to the Highway! It was getting dark now so I exited the Highway into West Vail once again back on the bike path, covered in snow, headed towards Lionshead. At Lionshead to go any further it meant taking a very icy road which I decided was probably not a very sensible thing to do in the dark - I really didnt want to fall on the ice! So once again I turned round and as I was beginning to get cold again I stopped a couple of miles downhill at McDonald's for another hot chocolate and the chance to warm up again! Ended up sitting here for quite a while to let my feet warm up again.

After this McDonald's stop I had another 25 miles to go - in the dark - but I knew the first 8 at least would be downhill! After that I decided to turn uphill towards Minturn - just a few miles - a lovely little village - it was kind of cool to ride through it in the dark! Then I turned round to go back towards the apartment, realising I still wouldn't have done enough miles. I was thinking of stopping for a while but my toes were now only cold and not frozen and I really needed to get finished! So I carried on past the apartment and did a loop through Avon and back to Eagle Vail and then back down the main road - until I was finally finished!! It had taken 7 hours 15 minutes of riding - which is pretty slow - but then half of it was uphill at altitude and it was extremely cold!! I was pretty tired at the end - wished I had started earlier without all the delays - there were times when snow tyres would have been useful but overall the roads were clear so they would have slowed me down further! The most important thing was that I didnt fall. And it was a great challenge - really was a 100 mile challenge for me - not easy - but a great thing to do!! I am very proud of mum, dad, Julie and John for finishing their first century - a really great effort - and I look forward to the next one! But let's make it in the summer - please!!

25 Hour Race Frog Hollow, Utah

A bit late with this blog - the race was back in October! With hindsight I still wasn't ready for such a challenge, but I wanted to give it a go and was excited about the prospect. I arrived in Utah with Meg as my support in a rental car - looking around most people had far more support - RVs, tents, tool racks, spares etc etc. There was my hint I wasnt as well prepared as I should have been. Maybe I needed a little more gear! Woke up that morning not feeling great - the antibiotics are still making me feel sick - probably the anticipation of the race as well!! Was going to try to use the Hammer Nutrition through the day!

I had never tried a 24 hour race before and was looking forward to it but not sure what to expect. What I definitely hadnt expected was it to be so cold - with 2 inches of snow on the ground that morning! Made me a little worried straight away! But it did feel a little warmer as we arrived at the start and the sun came out. Maybe it wouldnt be so bad!

There was a 100 m dash to the start where I grabbed my bike and hopped on. I had no idea what the trail would be like beforehand! There was a fairly easy 5 mile uphill to start followed by an easy 5 mile downhill - disappointing - not the type of course I was hoping for (I prefer more of a downhill). Then there was about 3 miles of rolling hills with a steep, rocky, more technical section towards the end. The first three laps were good and I rode well - despite not feeling great - stomachwise. At lap 8 however I was in 5th place only 1 lap behind the leaders and was feeling pretty pleased with myself, especially as I was feeling so ill! It was getting dark at this stage so I put my lights on - excellent - really pleased with them. However on the 9th lap on the downhill section my front light went out and I couldnt see properly! My helmet light worked but this wasnt so great - I would turn a corner and see into the bushes rather than the trail head - not good! Then on the steep part of the course my front tyre popped and I fell, bruising my hip. But I fixed the tyre and went to use my CO2 cannister, screwed in the valve only to find the connection wasnt long enough! Never mind - I would use my pump - but no that seized up on me! So I ended up hiking along the trail until I could borrow a pump from a check point guy! At last I was on my way again! Although I pumped it up a little too much in the dark which didnt make for a comfortable ride!

I got back to the car and immediately set off for the next lap hoping to make up some of the lost time! I was not particularly enjoying the course, especially the rocky section at the end. I had been hoping for more of a downhill section - on the last lap I only had to touch my brakes twice on the whole of the downhill - so overall I was a bit upset with the way things were turning out! Not how I had imagined and my stomach was feeling dreadful!! I hadnt eaten properly and was struggling with the cold! My water bottle was frozen by the end of the next lap! I would get too hot on the climb up and too cold on the downhill! When I got back to the car I decided to sleep for a while - but after an hour I woke absolutely freezing - shivering like crazy - so I decided to put the heater on, take off some of my biking gear and sleep a little longer! Well - that was it - although I did eventually warm up I decided not to go back out again!!

I actually completed 12x laps though because we were parked just before the Finish line I forgot to check in on the last one so am recorded as only completing 11!! Never mind! Despite all this I still placed 9th overall - much better than I thought - though I was obviously disappointed in my overall performance! It just wasnt my day! I could have coped with not liking the course but not with being cold and sick!! I will keep taking the antibiotics and hope that when the course is finished (6 months from end of August!!) I can get my stomach sorted out and be back to full power for this sort of race!! I will definitely try another 24 hour race - and be better prepared all round next time!!

100 MILES

Sorry the tweets and facebook updates didnt show on the website!!!! But yes the Roswell crew have had a wonderful day in Georgia and completed the century in approx 8 1/2 hours. Just waiting to hear from Paul that he too has finished in Colorado - where he not only had hills to contend with (ie mountains) but also temperatures of 28 degrees!!! So proud of him and his support as ever, Miriam

Paul's 100 Mile Challenge

First group in Roswell are setting out early tomorrow morning on the Silver Comet Trail. Hopefully we will be able to follow their progress on twitter/facebook. Good luck to mum, dad, Julie, John and Janice - take care out on the trail!

Hammer Nutrition

Something all of you attempting the 100 mile Challenge might want to consider - the correct fuel and nutrition for training as well as the event! I am now using Hammer Nutrition - good products and good information. Follow the link if you are interested!

Hammer Discount Referral

Training Ride - October 3, 2011

Disappointingly I found out that my Guinness World Record would not appear in print in the book after all - so I decided I had better go set another one! Having a look at some options there was one possible one that took my notice - riding across Australia from Perth to Sydney. This will be a difficult one to beat as it has been hard fought several times in recent years - the current one sets an average speed of about 320 miles per day! I thought it might be a good idea to go for a test ride and see just how many miles I was capable of in a single day - I had a spare day in the UK and Dean was available to help. Time to put myself to the test!

There were a couple of factors that I didn't really give enough consideration to. One being the bike I was using - not really the best one for road distances. I had my cyclocross which I had used for the Scotland Coast to Coast the previous week. In Australia I would probably use something more like a time trail bike with disc wheels etc. - a lot more aerodynamic and quicker! But I wanted to give it a test anyway!

I started at midnight and rode for about 7 hours in the dark. During this first part of the ride my GPS bike computer just didn't seem to be working properly however eg I would be pedalling pretty hard but looking at the monitor it was only recording about 14 mph - I don't think so!! My aim was to keep at a constant 16 mph so this was all very off putting. I would look at the dial,and think I had better pedal faster and then the speed would drop! I ride enough to know the approximate speed I am going and the readings just didn't seem correct! However when the sun came up it seemed to settle down and work a lot better??

Dean slept for a few extra hours ( we didn't want him to be driving tired) and so met me after about 4 hours as I knew I had enough food and water with me for about that time! The route was basically along the south coast via Brighton traveling east initially - I didn't want anything with too many hills although there were a few sections past Brighton where it was a lot hillier than I had expected but back towards Eastbourne and it was lovely! Looking at the flags on the coast there I could see that there was a slight tailwind blowing - not much - all very pleasant!

When it started to get quite hilly again I decided to turn around and head back - it seemed as soon as I changed direction the wind really started to pick up - in fact when I got back to those same flags they were now blowing around violently - a headwind now of course! So we decided to change the route and headed inland - bad decision as this was a dreadful,road - and very hilly! I felt pretty good in myself at this stage but was annoyed at the conditions - not quite what I had planned. I was fed up and decided I didn't really want to drag this on any more for no real reason. I also realized it was probably still,too soon after my illness to push myself so much so maybe better to stop,while I was still feeling good! It would be silly to continue - according to my GPS I had covered at least 215 miles though with the earlier problems I think it was probably a little more! Not bad all things considered - I was pleased enough with my performance. Obviously in Australia I would have to cope with hills and bad weather but I still have a lot of training to do before then!! But no more for today. We will of course try again later!

Lupus Butterfly Gala - October 11, 2011

Just playing 'catch up' with my blogs!

I was very pleased and honored to be invited to the Lupus Butterfly Gala in New York in recognition of my support for the Lupus Foundation. I flew to New York from Denver on the Monday to meet my mum who was also invited and we enjoyed dinner with Morgan that evening. I had first met Morgan when I completed my Guinness World record and it was good to catch up. Tuesday morning was spent buying a suit for the occasion ( not something I owned) and then we spent a fun day sightseeing - I loved the New York Public Library - what a fantastic building and we accidentally crossed the Brooklyn Bridge on the metro giving us a view of the statue of Liberty - and some happy memories of my ride into New York to set my world record last year! We even found a great Italian restaurant with a gluten free menu!!

The Gala was held in The Pierre Hotel near Central Park - very nice! There were a lot of people there including Julian Lennon and the CEO of Sa

ks Fifth Avenue - it was really great to hear all the speeches - very inspirational. As always with all the lupus sufferers I have met since I started supporting the Lupus Foundation they are all really brave and all really fighting this disease - just like my sister! Great! It was a really fun night - I met lots of really nice people and it was especially good to meet some of the Lupus staff we have been communicating with over the last few years - and to be able to put faces to the names ( and have our photos taken!) Great people! Made my mum smile to hear me introduced as Paul - you know - the cyclist!!!

It was a really good evening with wonderful people working for a great cause - and I look forward to continuing to support them more in the future!

Frog Hollow in the Snow?

25 hour race starts today at 10 am local time - that's 4 pm UK time and 12 midday there in Roswell. Am still trying to get the SPOT up and running - will twitter if it works!

25 Hour Race at Frog Hollow, Utah

Ski season has started in Beaver Creek for me but I am taking a few day off to compete in the 25 hour race in Utah on Saturday. The clocks go back at the weekend so what better way to use that extra hour?? Its a 12.8 mile mountain bike lap and the aim is to do as many laps as possible during the longest day! I am really looking forward to the race and seeing how well I am able to stand up to such a test!! Follow my progress on twitter and facebook via my website!!

Frog Hollow

Coast to Coast, Scotland, 17th September, 2011

That was a good race - very, very hard but great fun!! I kind of planned for the race but forgot about the other stuff like somewhere to sleep the night before so ended up sleeping on the floor in Ruth And Alice's room - not the best sleep and a little late in the morning running down to the start in Nairn. I did quickly go dip my toes in the ocean though before setting off at 6.30 am for the first 7 mile run. The run was actually quite cool - alongside a river and then zig zagging through the woods - surprisingly I felt really good considering I am terrible at running - but I did run pretty well - slightly slower than i wanted to but that turned out to be quite good - I was at the back of one group for a while then skipped ahead to the back of another! Anyway I did pretty good and made it to the Cawdor Castle OK where all our bikes were ready for the first transition. I was a bit slow making the transition but as soon as I hopped on my bike I felt really good and started overtaking other riders. I was flying by and felt awesome - finally (been a while since I have been able to say that!) Surprisingly the route was pretty flat - not a great road (thought it would be more hilly) - but it was actually pretty easy and I was having a great time!! 48 mile road ride in two and a bit hours - so was doing really well! Then the next transition was to the kayaks (Loch Ness) - after leaving my bike there was a little run which was rather difficult/painful in bike shoes - about a mile or so! I was then a little surprised to discover the kayaks were all doubles - you just jumped in with whoever was ready - kind of cool as we were able to have a little chat along the way and it was nice to have some help - not as difficult as being solo! Enjoyed that! This brought us to Fort Augustus, which would be the end of the first day for those taking the two day challenge (Alice and Ruth)

But for us it was back to our bikes for the off road section - though it wasn't really off road initially. However there was soon some single track through the woods where it was bumpy, sloppy and muddy - also some very steep hills which I had to hike up. My calf muscles had started hurting about 30 miles in and now they really hurt - but I tried to ignore it. I did go through a bit of a bad patch here - maybe paying the price for trying to go too fast earlier.

When we started that morning the weather had been pretty miserable and it was raining - however as soon as we really got underway the weather just got better and better - of course that meant I soon had too many clothes on and as I stripped off I had to find somewhere to put them - shoved in pockets and sticking out of my top - so that was a bit of a pain! Also I had had the brilliant idea of zip tieing my running shoes to my bike as I didn't have any space in my backpack - however it turned out to be not such a good idea as they were continually in my way, especially when I had to stand for the steep parts where they just bashed in to my knees!! A good idea that didnt really work and made the single track section annoying!! After some time on a gravel road we were back on the single track and the bolt fell out of my water bottle holder making my bottle rattle all over the place - quite funny really! Back on the road again and I realised I had overtaken quite a few people by now as I couldn't really see anyone off in the distance any more. Felt good though. I had ridden as hard as I could on the first ride but took it a bit easier on the second as I knew I had a hike up a mountain ahead of me! At the end of this bike ride we had our times recorded - the clock was stopped to give you a chance to get organised for the last section. So I left my bike at Glen Nevis and was surprised to see only 5 others there before me - I was in a really good position. So I was now able to get changed and get rid of all the extra clothes ready to head off up the mountain - Ben Nevis. I tried running for about 5 minutes but decided that hurt too much and that I would fast hike instead!

I felt pretty good the whole time except for one bad patch - I decided my goal was to finish and still feel good rather than try to run to gain a few places and then collapse half way up the hill. So a few people overtook me on this section but as we got into it a bit more I could see others in front of me also struggling to run too so I didnt feel so bad. Wasn't just my complete lack of running training - everyone was feeling the same. We hiked up a gravel road for a while, then a path and then up the mountain side - we zig zagged around and got all bundled up at one stage - and approached a steep rockside which I managed to scramble up faster than some of the others in the group - however they then overtook me going down!! The down was awful - wet grass - I fell over a few times as did others ahead of me - in fact you could see the marks of where they had fallen! That section was pretty hard! By now my ankles, calves and knees were all burning and I was ready to be done. You could see Loch Leven at the bottom - but it was really difficult to get to it down a very steep and awkward hill - but eventually we did with another very painful 1 mile run along the road to reach the final kayak. Once again we paired up with the closest person - I was with a guy from the RAF - was quite cool chatting with him. When we reached the other side of the Loch we ran for the Finish line and I was told I was in 16th place! So I was very happy about that!!

I felt good that I had done so well despite not having been able to put in the training I should have - especially with the running. Today was the longest run/hike I have ever tried and the longest bike ride I have been able to attempt for quite a while, having been feeling so ill since Africa. So yes - pretty pleased with myself. The scenery was very cool - breathtaking, and the weather has been awesome - a glorious day, which really helped! Absolutely shattered when I finished! Great fun!!

My time was 10 hours 40 minutes - not too bad all in all. Average heart rate was about 170 - very high in the morning but I slowed down a little in the afternoon! Great fun!! Did I say that already?

Only trouble is I originally thought Dean was coming so didn't really organise the transport very well. So looks like I will have to get up in the morning and cycle coast to coast again to pick up my car. Then I will drive back here again to see Ruth and Alice finish tomorrow.


PS.
I did indeeed cycle back the next morning - 98 miles! And got back just in time to see the girls finish. I was absolutely exhausted!!

Coast to Coast, Scotland 2011

Still waiting for Paul's official blog of the day to arrive - but just to report briefly on his behalf that he finished in 16th place - a fantastic effort considering he had only just been diagnosed with Tropical Sprue and had just begun treatment. The gluten free diet obviously has had immediate positive effects - great to see Paul getting his energy back after all this time!!

Next Saturday

Only 1 week to go till the Coast to Coast in Scotland!! Check out the website for more information: http://www.scotlandcoasttocoast.com/

Gluten Free in Denver

Its been a while since writing anything here - I've had a few things to sort out! Basically have been feeling really ill and tired ever since returning from Africa. The two races I attempted (Tour Divide and Breckenridge 100) turned out to be the most difficult and exhausting things I have ever done because of this. I was initially advised that I just needed to give my body time to recover. So I tried resting up but that didn't really seem to help. Eventually went for loads of tests here in Denver and have just been diagnosed with Tropical Sprue, which is a disease very like Coeliac disease which prevents the absorption of nutrients in the stomach and intestines. Kind of explains a lot - especially the stomach pains and the chronic fatigue. So - this means a gluten free diet and antibiotics for the next 6 months or so!! The good news is that I started the diet a few days ago and already am beginning to feel a lot better - hopefully when I start the antibiotics tomorrow I will feel even more so!

I still plan to participate in the Coast to Coast Race across Scotland next week (September 17) - though it will probably be a bit of a struggle still. Then when I return to Denver I can now think about doing some local races - which was what I had originally planned to be doing all this summer!!

As well as this I am working on my truck and getting ready to start work on the ski slopes in November. Check in for further updates and to see how I get on in Scotland. Looking forward to seeing some fellow TDA'ers there as well!!

One Hell of a Race - Breckenridge 100

What an amazing race!! The hardest race ever!! 100 miles of off road up a couple of mountains! Had to register the night before - after doing so Scott and I had a quick look at a couple of the loops - to me it looked like about 10 good climbs - ~ 12000 feet of climbing - not much point in checking it out further at this stage. It would be a hard day! There was a riders briefing meeting at 5.45 am and then we set off at 6. I was trying out my new Hammer products - a selection of supplements and I had sorted the gels and shakes into hourly packs - and was hoping they would do the job! As soon as we started I felt sick - maybe the food for breakfast - maybe the altitude. Even here at the start I was higher than I had ridden my bike this year! Almost immediately we hit Breckenridge Mountain - up the steepest ski trail!! Unbelievably difficult! My heart rate was immediately through the roof - I just couldnt seem to calm it down! So painful all the way up! Then the down though - really cool - the part I love! Real fun - right across the hill - if you'd fallen off the side you would have tumbled all the way down the mountain!! I managed to overtake a whole load of riders here - very cool! Then up and down again along a few bike paths - and then back to the starting point and the end of the first loop. Scott asked me how I was feeling - pretty terrible was the answer!! We did a great switch over with supplies and I was off on lap 2. Seemed a little easier climb at first - more of a dirt road to the top and then an incredible down - the next climb was harder - more like a 4 wheel drive track - and ended up with quite a bit of walking. At mile #4 I was so exhausted - at mile # 44 I really didnt know how I was even going to finish!! I was pushing, walking, hiking, riding - anything to get up that mountain! Another guy was struggling similarly along with me and declared he was going to call it quits after the second lap - but no way was I going to quit - I was determined to finish even if it killed me!! We chatted and yo- yoed our way along - he seemed to walk while I rode and vice versa! It was a killer hill - there were so many people walking!! The trouble with this section was all those doing the 32 or 68 mile courses joined it with us and so if you stopped to let someone by you ended up having to wait for another 10 or so. Bit of a pain!!

There were two really good downhills on this section though - but all I could think of was getting back and finishing lap 2 - I needed then to reach the cut off point on the third section in time!! I switched camelbaks etc with Scott again and set off on the final lap. The bike was doing really well - Scott lubed the chain for me. Lap 3 was really one peak - straight out and back again! - so up, down, loop round and return. We had to reach Borea Pass before the cut off time otherwise you would not be allowed to continue! This was a killer - climbing a 4 wheel drive track with huge boulders all around. At one point I turned around and could see about 40 people all hiking!! No one riding!! We were tired and it was a hard trail!! Finally got out on the road and reached the aid station at the top of the pass in time. It was good to have a rest! Then we headed off down the road turning off road onto an amazing single track through the woods - down into the bowl - almost like a roller coaster - up and down - great fun! It lasted for ages but I felt good and was enjoying it - I thought this would turn out to be my best lap!! Caught up with a load of people - the supplements seemed awesome and although I still felt sick I was used to it and could cope fine and had some energy!! Then as I reached the bottom of the mountain I started to crash!! Maybe dehydration? I dont think so - maybe just the altitude?? But my body could no longer cope!! After the rest there was a 12 mile climb up a gravel road - should have been easy! I set off at a decent speed but then just got slower and slower - I could barely go for a mile at a time! The really disappointing thing is that at least 40 people passed me on this final climb. But anyway I eventually made it to the top where I practically collapsed and ended up just sitting there for 10 minutes! Trying to drink and eat. Decided it wasnt really making me feel any better and there were only 10 miles left which would be mainly downhill so I should get it over and done with!!

So I went flying down another great single track and then my front suspension went. The air in the fork had leaked out and this caused the spring to rebound too much. I had to take it steady now as I didnt want to do more damage. Now I was just wanting it to end! Every now and then there was a little climb - each one killed me!! Eventually I crossed the finish line - it was great to see Scott! It had been an ordeal in many ways. The toughest 12 hours ride ever - in fact my time was 13 hrs 45 mins including the rests and me dying by the side of the road!!

But all in all what an amazing race!! Such a cool day - such a cool race. I just wished I had felt a little better! But I absolutely loved it. I would be surprised to find a harder race than that. And I do need to train a lot more at altitude - even the start was higher than anything I had ridden since Nepal. But the weather had also been pretty good - I just cant wait to do it again next year - and beat my time!! Disappointing that I ended up last in my age category - I lost at least 6 places in that final climb! Never mind - that doesnt really matter. To be honest - the way I felt at the half way point it was amazing just to finish! One hell of a race. The winner had an incredible time of 8 hours 10 minutes - no idea how he does that! Overall an awesome day - great fun (OK I am saying that as I am collapsed here on the couch just trying to recover). I will be back next year - hopefully on a different bike more suited to this type of race!!

Breckenridge 100 Today

Article about today's race:

Summit Daily

Course Description: Featuring an inspiring, sprawling course nestled between 3 ski resorts, participants will face a unique challenge of strength and fortitude. The distinct clover-leaf loops offer team competitors the opportunity to strategize their efforts and pick which loop each participant will tackle. Our goal is to provide you a unique and rewarding experience in cross-country competition. Our renowned course architect has linked together an amazing, interconnecting network of backcountry trails, dirt roads, double track and bike paths that will take you far beyond the typical boundaries of endurance racing. From start to finish, you will be both pampered and pushed to your limit at the same time. You’ll cross the Continental Divide three times, climb 12,000 foot passes and forge high mountain streams while all the time returning to the support and encouragement of our staff, friends and teammates who are waiting for you at Carter Park in historic downtown Breckenridge.

Off to Denver

Have had a busy two weeks since Tour Divide. Returned to my old school in North Wales, UK (St David's College, Llandudno) to present the prizes to the leavers and talk about my Guinness world record - many thanks to everyone for making me feel so welcome - I had a great day and managed to meet up with a few friends while there! Not sure about inspiring others but certainly managed to motivate myself into further preparations and planning for my ultimate adventure - to pedal round the world - more on that later!!

After that returned to Roswell to organise my collection of bikes and parts (sorry about the mess mum!) - and how to get them to Colorado. All ready now - my flight to Denver leaves in a couple of hours - my new home for a while!! Plenty of races to keep me occupied. First one - the Breckenridge 100 - is next Saturday! Am not feeling 100% fit still so not expecting a great result - but intend to finish!! Sounds a great race - this incredible course climbs 13,719 feet over its 100 miles and features a sprawling course nestled between 3 ski resorts. It crosses the Continental Divide three times and climbs 12,000 foot passes over a snow field, ending back in Breckenridge!!

Breckenridge 100

Looking forward to my TdA reunion with Scott - thanks to him and Tori for offering to let me crash at theirs for a while.

St David's Speech Day

Loved my school in North Wales! 13 years ago I attended Speech day as a leaver and today I am presenting the prizes!! Good luck to all the Upper Sixth leavers!!

News from Rawlins

After a long chat last night Paul has decided to withdraw from this race. He has been suffering every day since the start but has still managed to complete 0ver 1400 miles in less than 10 days and I have no doubt he could struggle through to the finish if he had enough time. However this seems pointless as he is not able to enjoy the ride as he would want! He has achieved an experience of the trail and learnt a lot and can always compete again next year when he is not battling sickness as well as everything else! I know he is a little disappointed but there are plenty more challenges out there!!
He plans to try to visit Scott and then return here to Atlanta to prepare for his trip to the UK next week!!

Day 10 - Father's Day and McIlroy wins the US Open

Woke up in my bivvy this morning - it was great - I was nice and warm and not at all wet! I woke at about 7.30 am and as I was so cosy decided to stay in a little longer - but about 5 minutes later it started to rain. I was going to try to wait it out but eventually got up at about 8am with it still raining a little - bit of a nuisance trying to pack away wet things! But all was well. Had some cold pizza for breakfast - really missed the ice on my ankles and the shower for my saddle sores - a baby wipe shower is not quite the same!! Riding was a bit slow but at least there was a tailwind. The trail turned east then south, then east then south and so every now and then would turn into a cross wind for a while. Really rolling hills again but no climbing today really. Scenery is amazing! A huge basin where you can see for miles and miles - huge mountains in the distance! But it seemed to be taking me a long time to cover the miles. The road got a bit sandy and I was slipping around a bit - some of the small downs were a bit scary!! But I carried on and reached a supposed reservoir - although I didnt see any water (and I was getting a bit low) Then the trail headed south into a bit of a wind for a while and then east on to a paved road with a tail wind - so that was good! It was the loneliest paved road I had ever been on - not a single car for about 20/30 miles. Then I reached a busier highway with cars (which I'd seen from about 10 miles back!) then a nasty little climb and across the basin towards Rawlins. It was now beginning to rain heavier and I was pretty much out of food and water. I needed to get there - also had the added incentive that I wanted to watch the final few holes of the US Open!! Finally rolled in to Rawlins - was going to stop at the first motel but it looked as though it was going to fall down - so I carried on to something decent looking with a name that I recognised - a Travel Lodge! Got myself a room and a shower!! Also managed to see the final three holes and McIlroy win the golf!! Ordered a pizza and am ready for bed!!

I need to evaluate this trip and what I am doing! I have to be in the UK the end of next week so have a fairly tight schedule even if things were going better. I have cycled 1400 miles in 9 1/2 days despite having felt ill since Day 1 so to be honest am not enjoying the trip as I had hoped - I always knew it might be more a training trip than anything else and I have certainly learnt a lot!! It is an amazing trail and challenge!! I think I just have to decide how much more I can get out of it by continuing!!

Day 9 - A Night in my Bivi Bag

After a good long sleep in Pinedale I enjoyed a very lazy start - after breakfast I wrapped up last night's remaining pizza to take along with me for later!! Heading out to cross the Basin I knew there would be long stretches with no extra food or water available. My plan was an 85 mile ride to Atlantic City - get there nice and early and stock up again for the next section. Anyway - that was my plan!! Left Pinedale and rode the few miles to Boulder where there were supplies - then headed off into the basin - after about 20 miles reached a sandy road - rolling hills as far as you can see - the Teton Mountains off to the left hand side - amazing views and cattle everywhere. Slowly climbing up towards the Divide - bit of a tailwind for a change which is nice! The trail ran along the top for a while before hitting a paved road and slightly steeper hills. Then I went down into South Pass City - an old Gold mining town with supposedly a supermarket but I didn't see it!! I was relieved to reach Atlantic City nice and early - thinking it would be good to rest here. I passed a run down B & B and then found Dave and a few others in the restaurant just down the road - they tell me the B& B is indeed closed - some of them have managed to find a room for the night - one guy is going to continue. So what to do? the lady there offers me her wig wam to camp in but I think if I am going to do that I might as well travel a bit further so i am closer to supplies for tomorrow's ride. So I continued - its kind of easy riding aa it is quite beautiful but still kind of tough going. So i stocked up with sandwiches, drinks and chocolate bars and headed out. It was an easy enough ride with a good wind to help me on my way - I plodded along for another 20 miles before needing to get my night light out and had something to eat. Finally at midnight I decided to stop and camp for the night - I pulled over to the side of the road where I had seen a group of bushes about 2 feet high. I found a gap, positioned my bike and got myself ready. Took my shoes off and stood on a cactus - the only one in sight!! Just where I planned to sleep - ended up having to dig it out as it really was in the best place for shelter - I was afraid I had popped my bike tyres!! Anyway I made my little bed - cosy but eerie - lots of strange animal noises around! But I got comfy and slept pretty good - woke up a few times but not too bad!!

Day 8 Pizza and Golf!

Got up early this morning and had a breakfast burrito at the supermarket. It was still dark when I left and I was finding it difficult to even keep my eyes open. Along a really nice flat bike path - but even so was really struggling after yesterday. Did about 10 miles and then stopped at a petrol station for coffee and a muffin and then carried on again practically falling asleep while riding! After another 10 miles I stopped again for coffee and hash browns and finally managed to get myself going a little bit! The path zig zagged back and forth until we got on to the highway and started one hell of a climb over the Teton Pass towards Jackson Hole. Finally reached the top and put all my clothes on as I was freezing - really think I must be ill today as I had all my clothes on and was still cold whereas other people seemed to be wearing a lot less quite comfortably. There was a good downhill though to a village with a bike shop where I bought myself some warmer socks! They were really nice in there - I needed some chain lube which they just gave to me which was really kind of them! Then I carried on to Jackson. My bum is really killing me - I got the saddle sores a few days ago when we hiked through the snow and have been suffering ever since! I have tried all sorts - even nappy rash cream. Today I decided to buy some hemorrhoid ointment - we used it in Africa and it seemed to be pretty good. So did that in Jackson and then went to McDonalds. For a long time I was umming and ahhing as to whether to stay in Jackson and find a hotel there but I decided that would just put me too far behind. Really took a lot to persuade myself to get back on the bike and continue but I finally did. I was really slow again - the bike path went alongside the highway with great views over the river and then it turned away from the major river to another as we started a very slow climb, traveling alongside the river the whole time. Sore throat, feeling sick, struggling to ride - what a state I am!! Finally after about 30 miles I reached the top - another very gradual downhill - couldn't get up any speed and had to pedal hard still. The scenery was great though - great plains as far as you could see dotted with a few meandering hills. Struggled through as best I could and managed 125 miles in the end. Found a hotel here and have just had pizza delivered - have just been watching the golf with Rory McIlroy and am ready to go to sleep. Tomorrow is going to be a short day - about 85 miles which should give me a chance to have a good rest. Am trying to arrange things to avoid camping as I don't thinking will do my cold any good - it was literally 0 degrees earlier today. I am not going to set an alarm tonight - just let myself sleep and see when I wake up! Good night!!

Day 7 to Tetona

Yesterday I planned to do 100 miles from Lima - got there nice and early and so had an early night. Which meant I could have an early start today after a good nights sleep. I also managed to do some laundry, ate in the restaurant across the road where they also made me some sandwiches for today. I eventually left at about 3 am. Headed up into a basin - absolutely nothing there. It was really difficult to get going. There was a dirt road that slowly meandered up through this basin - slowly going and going. Finally the sun came up which warmed me up a little. Made it to Lake View meeting a couple on a tandem coming the other way- had a chat with them and began to feel slightly better and got going a bit more. Finally made it to the Divide but there was a false top - went down and then climbed up again - then down again. It was a very gradual climb up and then down - with that headwind still - bit of a pain. Pretty hard work. On the other side on the way down was a big lake - pretty nice area. Then off into the woods for a bit before popping out where I found a restaurant and ordered a spaghetti bolognese - although I struggled to eat only a little. I was fed up with myself so left. I thought I had about 30 miles or so to Maryville as I was planning on only 100 again today. I had a 5 hour energy drink in the hope it would perk me up! The trail was completely flat but along an old railway track - seriously the worst ride ever - about 2 inches of soft gravel in the railway bed - and you just couldn't go fast. It just seemed so pointless as there were lots of once gravel roads off to the side. I was so angry. This was not fun - made it a miserable ride. I was so angry this actually got me going a little bit. When we left the railway it was really nice - after about 25 miles that was. There was now a great track down by the river - really fun. Great views across the river so I just flew down. This was then where the trail left the main route for the last of the detours. I thought we went closer to Ashdown and Maryville but I got that wrong when I was figuring it out. Actually turned on to what was like a snowmobile trail so I thought "OK I'll keep going" there was another place to stop in about 10 miles. However I couldn't find anywhere there - tried to look at google maps but didn't have a signal so in the end as I was feeling pretty good I decided to carry on. I was pedaling well and in the end made it all the way to Tetona - about 155 miles - a really good day, which I hadn't expected. I got myself a room, got changed and then it hit me. I had pedalled way too hard, too long. Both ankles were swollen and my knees were killing. Walked over to the restaurant and felt awful! Had a bite to eat and went to bed!

Day 6 to Lima

Already decided to only do 100 miles today. When I went to bed I was thinking of getting up early but had a really bad night coughing. Felt really sorry for Parker and the other guys! When they left there was no way I was ready to go get up with them so decided to try and get some extra sleep before heading out. I already had some sandwiches prepared the night before.
After breakfast I eventually set off - 100 miles to Lima and absolutely nothing along the trail. There was a nice downhill to start off then just massive open plains. Then basic all I cycled upstream along the river - a nice gravel road. There was cattle ranch after cattle ranch, but constantly uphill - seemed to go on forever - about 50 miles uphill with headwind all the time! Lots of animals - elk, deer etc. Also various rodent like creatures - possums as well. Finally thought I was at the top - but there was a quick little down before we started to climb again. I couldn't believe it! But actually it wasn't too bad - long hills across the tops - rewarded by unbelievable views. Big valley full of mountains with the snow peaked tops in the distance! I did take a photo! Finally got to the down - however it was so gradual and in to the headwind it was still hard work and had to pedal hard for about 20 miles. Made it to Lima nice and early and have already eaten - actually felt good after eating for the first time. Knees a bit swollen so I am putting some ice on it and then going to bed!

Day 5 to Butte - Part 2

Had my picnic and then headed off! Turned off on to a road headed up the valley - I could see the trail ahead of me snaking up the valley. There was a good headwind - a real pain in the ass! Slowly crept along with the road getting steeper and steeper - one he'll of a zig zagging road going up. The last section was super steep - snowy, muddy and boggy! Ended up having to walk. Finally got to the top - it was really high - pretty cool! The other side was totally insane - like riding down a ski slope. I think that's one of the trails the book said you would have to walk done - but anyway I rode! It was fun - super step - but it meant that despite all that effort to get up you couldn't then actually go that fast then going down - you had to be careful and brake a lot - it was just too steep! After reaching the bottom The trail continued to wind along - I was really worried at this stage that I wouldn't get to the Post Office in Wise River in time to collect my parcel - it closed at 4.45pm. That climb took so long - but I got there at 4.30 so all was well. I sent my old maps, passport and broken pedals home and then had a bite to eat! Although I had felt awful in the morning I had gelt a lot better in the climb - kit was still early so I decided to press on and was confident I could make Elkhorn Springs in good time. Another 30 miles. So I headed off on a paved road - but one that climbed steadily for 23 miles - getting steeper and steeper as it went. There was a serious headwind at the beginning although much better when I reached the shelter of the trees thank goodness!
But I was just firing and by now totally fed up - was this climb ever going to end? At 23 miles I reached the top and then the trail went up and down for another couple of miles. "When is it going to descend ?" I kept thinking. Finally the down was pretty good - by then it was freezing - I was wearing all my clothes again. The hotels in Elkhorn were full but I was directed to another place s down the road - so I carried on and met up with four guys I have been zig zagging along with - two from Athens, Georgia and two from Crested Butte!! We ended up sharing a room together!

Day 5 to Butte - Part 1

Stayed in the B &B and when I woke this morning the nice lady had left coffee and cereal all ready for me! Which was really nice of her. I tried to eat some cereal but didn't really feel up to it. It was freezing so I was wearing all my clothes - which made my bike nice and light! That was kind of good - I really needed that help as I struggled like he'll on the road. Went along the highway for a bitten took off and followed an old train track - it was a fairly good climb but really sandy and into a headwind. Went through a tunnel and then stopped and tried to eat a sandwich - but I felt so bad. Ended up on a road running parallel to the highway - flat and straight and boring with a headwind - everything I hate! Then back on to the highway for a downhill to Butte - but I was so cold - shivering like crazy! As soon as I arrived in Butte I headed for Arby's - but struggled to eat and just felt really miserable! My bum is killing - saddle sores are really hurting today! Went to K Mart and stocked up with cream, Advil, cough medicine, plasters etc etc - all sorts of junk! Continued on - the ride was great with the most amazing views andI felt a little better - the climb was gradual and I finally got to the top of the pass - the views were so wonderful! From there was a series of short drops followed by short climbs - the annoying thing I was having to take my clothes on and off each time and that is something I am quite slow at. I always seem to be stopping to drink, eat or add or remove clothes - and that's when everyone seems to overtake me again! Never mind - at least I get a rest every time I stop! I have just now come down a great downhill really fast - it wad really good fun. I am just having a rest Anne a sandwich in a field at the bottom!

Website Update

Yes - I know it is annoying but with our website manager in Arusha it is proving difficult to get a good enough connection for the time it takes to publish the changes!! Will speak to Matthew again and see what arrangements we can make!!

SPOT

Paul has ordered a replacement rental tracker which hopefully he will pick up in Lima tomorrow. He is going to try to get some more batteries for his one and see if he can get at least a few signals out today but otherwise we will have to rely on his texts and tweets as to where he is!!

Day 4 - June 13

Got up early this morning - about 4.30 am and left and rode not too far to Ovando - via a good climb and downhill! There were three other guys there - one who is doing the ITT (so left a little earlier than the race) and two from Crested Butte. I was feeling pretty good so I carried on to Lincoln where I ate again and phoned through about my faulty SPOT unit. Not only have the batteries died completely twice (they are supposed to last 7 - 14 days!) but it had also been placing me in some weird places!! From there it was one hell of a climb - really steep. In Helena I found a bike shop. My pedals had been really sticking so I replaced them along with a worn chain. It was good to have a bit of a breather in Helena and I was even thinking I might make it to Basin at a decent hour this evening - before 10 - and was quite excited about the prospect!! But ........... the trail was OK for a while but then we just seemed to climb and climb until it was so steep it would have been great to ski down. Took ages - hiking for a couple of hours to go a couple of miles!! It was freezing at the top and so i put all my clothes on. But at least I was rewarded with an awesome downhill - even in the dark!! Took us out on the main road with only 5 miles to Basin where there was a bar!! The lady there was great and phoned through to a B & B just down the road where they had sandwiches waiting for me when I arrived!! Thats where I am now!!
Did I mention I saw a black bear and a grizzly???

Day 3 - to Seeley Lake

Stayed in a Super 8 last night - woke up feeling really awful. Rode to Columbia Falls where I found some other guys waiting for the petrol station to open at 7am. But I carried on to see if there was another one - I was in search of bananas. Actually found a 24 hour supermarket - which was great - I was able to stock up. I was riding super slow - sore throat, headache - the works! Trust me to have a cold for the start of this race - its why I got behind on the first day and am having to play catch up!! Ate the bananas and had a coffee - those bananas really seemed to do the trick - rode 40 miles to Swan River - pulled over and had a great breakfast of French toast and really felt a lot better!! Didnt see much at Ferndale so carried on - there was not much in the way of food for a while so I was eating bars. It was a nice Forest trail. Finally ended up on the road and looking for food. I was told about Holland Lake Lodge - so went there and had a great chicken pot pie - looked a great place to stay overlooking the lake (nice to go back one day!!) I wanted to try to get to Seeley Lake. But it was a nightmare of a journey - my GPS sent me in to a field and the cues didnt seem to be making sense. Fortunately a guy came by who had ridden last year and so i rode with him for a while. We went up through a terrible single track in the middle of nowhere - quite a climb but eventually came back to the main road. Ended up at Seeley Lake but much later than I had hoped - again!! Found a bar with a motel attached and the guy cooked me a pizza. Off to bed!

Update from Paul

Tracker seems to have given up for a while and went a bit haywire on Day 2 - the one on the website is probably the more accurate!! Had a short text message from Paul at about 1am (his time) today saying he was OK but needed to recharge his phone. Hopefully more news later when the tracker starts again and he sets off for the day!

Day 2 - to White Fish

Woke up early at around 5am, packed up quickly and left! Had a really good morning even though we got a bit lost for a while. Didnt really know where we were! Fairly good gravle/tarmac roads. The day was going really well and I was able to go faster than I had hoped. Still not feeling so good stomach wise. But my legs feel good. Crossed the border into America and then found a Subway about 10 miles later for lunch. I realised there wasn't much else along the path for a while but actually found a little shop at about 111miles. I knew we were going up now and would cross the Continental Divide and that there woul dbe a little snow - but there turned out to be a LOT!! Ended up hiking 9 miles through the snow - probably took about 4 hours - a bit of a nightmare! After that it was beginning to get dark and I still had about 15 miles to White Fish Finally arrived here about 11.30 - so am just eating before going off to bed. That was one hell of a hard day! I did see deer and elk - no bears!! At one point riding down the last bit I could feel myself falling asleep on the bike - one hell of a long day! 16 hours with the bike to go about 155 miles!! Have to get up in about 4 1/2 hours time to do it all again!! Good night

Day 1 Continued - to Sparwood

After I sent the last message I ate and left at about 9pm to do the last 30 miles. There was a petty big climb and then some off road - pretty good though - used my new night light. Saw some moose which was pretty cool. Then I cam round a corner and thought I saw a bear in a field, followed by another one - but then I realised they were just cows!! Finally made it to town, ate and got to bed around midnight!

First Day - Elkford - June 10

Its pretty late at night but I am just going to eat and then continue for the day.
Have had a really hard day. Left with Tori this morning and after about 10 miles my bottle holder under my seat came off - so I had to stop to sort it out. The first 50 miles was quite a difficult ascent with a little snow. Then there was a great bike path to about 60m. There was a small store so I had a tin of cold ravioli - then we hit the snow and hiked for about 5 miles uphill. Then a good down and a good gravel rd to about 110 m. Saw a wolf and a deer - followed later by more deer!! Had a bad stomach all morning which I was a bit worried about - but felt better after about 74miles.
More updates as and when

All ready

No internet access here in Canada - but at least my phone is working! Just having breakfast with Tori - bikes all packed and ready. there are other riders with bikes full of gear all over the place. I just want to get going. Now!!

Tracker

As you can see from the map above Paul was testing his SPOT tracker from here in Roswell yesterday. Tomorrow we should be able to track his progress and from the Tour Divide website link we will be able to see where all the riders are!

Click below to see how it works:

Leaderboard

On My Way

...... to Banff. Excited about tomorrow's start. Has all been a bit hectic trying to get everything ready in time - bike was only ready yesterday and I have had to incorporate all the new detours into my planning! Fingers crossed it all works! Can tweet from my new phone - depending on the signal of course - and you should be able to follow my progress via SPOT tracker (along with the other riders!) Hopefully Matthew will get a chance from Arusha, Tanzania to update my website with the correct links etc. - but please be patient - I know only too well how difficult it is to find a decent internet connection capable of such a heavy task in that part of the world! Apart from that I am just looking forward to being back on my bike (first time since Cape Town) and catching up with Tori. Hope you are able to come long for the ride!!

Tour Divide

Hi there - currently back in Roswell, GA - having a rest and getting ready for the Tour Divide which starts in Banff, Canada June 10 2011. Its a one stage self supported race along the continental divide to Antelope Wells, New Mexico - approx 2,700 miles. Latest news in is that the snow is so bad this year some of the passes are impassable so they are going to have to re-route!! Nothing is ever straightforward is it?
For more information please go the the TOUR DIVIDE website

See you soon!

Happy Birthday Tori

Well - here I am in Cape Town. It's great to be finished but a shame that it's all over! Thank you all very much for your great support along the way. I am very pleased with the way things turned out - despite that little bug bite!! Winning the last section was great and meant a lot to me along with the last three mando days. Somehow also managed to survive the journey with zero crashes and zero flats out on the road. Always a bonus. My bike was incredible - thanks again to Roswell Bikes!

Still have the final blogs, photos and videos to upload - so check in now and then for updates. Also look forward to entertaining you all more with the next adventure - the Tour Divide!

See here for more info

There were two reasons for this last tour - 1) for the experience, which has simply been incredible 2) to raise money for charity! Still accepting donations .......

If you have any questions I am more than happy to talk ....... Looking forward to boring some of you in person over the next few months!


Just off now to join Tori for her birthday ride to the Cape point - 160 km round trip - hope we don't get lost without the flagging tape! More soon, Paul.

Cape Town

Just to say Paul was cheered over the Finish line at the Eco Park in Cape Town yesterday and the celebrations began! Jan, Matthew and Will rented bicycles and surprised Paul about 10 km out on the final bike path and rode in with him to the park! It was all very emotional! Paul is looking really well and was pleased with his win of the final section and overall 6th place! We are all now just a few miles down the coast in Camps Bay. A group of riders plan to ride down to the Cape tomorrow - well, what else would you expect??

Fight to the Finish - May 7

Dennis and I set the alarm early for this morning to make sure we were ready to go on the last mando day. We were not sure how the day would pan out. We woke at 5 am, packed all our gear and were ready waiting for breakfast at camp by 6am. I wasn’t too sure what to wear – although it was cold at the moment it was likely to warm up later. I opted for shorts and T shirt and would leave my jacket with Kendra in the truck when it was time to leave. Porridge for breakfast – finally! We haven’t had it for ages!! Then we were ready to leave – we were all together – nobody seemed too bothered about being the first to make a move! I guess it was strange to think this was the last time we would be doing this! Our last real race day! Finally we headed off together – as soon as we got on the road – Adam decided to drop off. The 5 of us rode really well together – not too fast – just enjoying the ride. My heart rate was unusually low and I was well stocked up with my remaining energy gels/bars etc – all ready for a mad day – but it was all surprisingly calm. Amazing scenery once again – rolling hills to start with and then a great dirt road – no cars on it – some corrugation – lots of river crossings – but nothing too bad! Scott was riding really well and we were climbing quite a good pass – amazing mountains. We passed Bastiaan at about 60 km. Just before the top at about 70 k Scott’s rear cassette breaks and so he couldn’t ride. However Bastiaan gave him his bike and we were able to continue together. Immediately Scott took off at full speed. So I followed and the others caught up after a while. We crested the hill at 75 km emerging into the Canyon – we could see maybe 50 – perhaps 100 km across – incredible! There was a great downhill and we coasted all the way to lunch at 90 km. We sat around and had a good lunch together – everybody still waiting for someone else to make a move – it is nice to relax. Just as we were leaving Adam and Steve turned up putting paid to an earlier theory about Adam possibly trying to play a trick with badging out!! He was content not to hurry off with us today! About 2 km out of lunch and Scott suddenly stopped – he decided he should return Bastiaan’s bike to him – that he did not need to race with us. He would find another bike to borrow. It made sense – he was really just racing to help me for the day and there was no reason he should do that! He wasn’t bothered in trying to win the day for himself. So then we climbed up and continued along the valley of the Canyon – rolling and into a strong headwind. The track was amazing – very faint – as if it would disappear completely if the wind kicked up! A barely visible 4 wheel drive track through the base of the canyon – once again with the most incredible views. We just carried on – the 4 of us – no one attacking. Paul hadn’t really done much to help all day and so I had the feeling he was biding his time and was really going to sprint for the win. I couldn’t believe he wouldn’t really want to win the last mando if at all possible. So I was getting a bit annoyed that he hadn’t worked with us at all – and then suddenly he finally took a turn. The 4 of us were now taking 2 km each at the front – it was quite hard for your turn because of the headwind and then of course a lot easier when you dropped back. We rolled through to 120 km where we found Sharita at a rest stop. We had enough water and she didn’t have any fruit so we weren’t too bothered until she said “But I do have coke!!” So we had a little coke stop and still no one was in a hurry to make the first move! Back on the road and another 10 km and we hit the river – a wide green belt at the bottom of the valley. Then we rode through a shanty town – I am sure Kristian will be taking loads of photos there – it was pretty amazing to see. Then there were green fields, orchards, a vineyard – an incredible contrast – with sand dunes just on the other side!! Just incredible scenery. Then we hit the road – great – 45 km on this and we will be done! Maybe an hour 20 or so. But of course the wind now picked up and got stronger and stronger – so that now we were only going at about 18kmph!! Recalculation! I was pretty tired – we had now been riding for over 5 hours – and had another couple of hours ahead! So we were struggling – the next 10 km was pretty slow – still taking our turns at the front. Then suddenly with 30 km to go Paul takes the front and just speeds up – I kind of missed the move and hesitated a little before I realized what was happening. Jorg shouted to let him go – but I was pretty sure he could do that distance on his own to win the stage if I let him. So I closed him quickly and sat with him. Dennis went too! It was very difficult at the front – and hard enough behind him! Eventually he pulled over and Dennis and I were able to slow it a little at the front. Then he would go really fast again – this continued for 20 km. At 10 km out the wind died down a little and the road was more rolling rather than the continuous uphill from earlier – a few downs to give us a break! I know now that Paul really wants this win. Dennis has already indicated he will help me if necessary – there is some pressure in knowing the others all wanted me to win the day but Paul was not going to just give it to me – I’ve never really had to sprint against Paul before – looks like I was going to today! So we will see what happens!! I was just trying to get in the right position – I really wanted to be behind him but he wouldn’t let me – if I slowed, he slowed. In fact Dennis was about 50 m in front at one stage and I thought “You might as well go for the win while Paul is messing around with me” But I sprinted ahead to catch him and Paul followed and we sat behind him for a while. Dennis did a few surges just to see what happened. Paul stayed in place. Getting really close now – just a couple of k – looking for the flag and I end up at the front. I can see Paul’s shadow in the road – eventually we see the flag in the distance – probably about 2 km away. I am riding and waiting and waiting. We get round the corner and see there is a pretty steep down followed by a steep uphill – the flag is at the top! As soon as we get to the top Paul takes off and I am a bit slow to react – at the bottom of the hill I am a bike length behind – but I am definitely stronger going up and closed him down all the way – just pressing like mad – I remember my bike going from side to side as I used as much pressure as I could. And I just got him on the line by about 6 inches!! It was so good!! Awesome fun! I ended up another 100 m further on before I could stop and return! And so out of breath! But that was awesome. Dennis was great – he was happy too – and had been cheering me on from just behind! I must admit it felt good to deny Paul the win – especially since he had sat on our wheels all morning !! I won. Awesome! I won the last stage and hopefully the last section. Feels so good!!

Dennis's Naked Mile - May 6

Turned out to be really nice in the hotel up on the top floor! We had already arranged and paid for breakfast this morning at 6am – as had quite a few other people! It had been a clear night and so the road had dried a little. We see Adam and Jorg set off and then Scott leaves also. Paul says he is not so bothered about racing to day so for me and Dennis to leave when we wanted. We wanted to catch Adam and Jorg – or at least not let them get too much time on us! I am currently in the lead for this section by 45 minutes (not including my mando bonus – so really by 1 hr 15) – but I still wanted to catch them to make sure. So I ride fairly fast keeping my heart rate at exactly 150 – with Dennis following and Paul nowhere in sight. The road is wet and sticky with some corrugation and lots of river crossings. I got stuck in the first one – more like a flowing river passing – and then got through the next one just as Patrick came flying through on his full suspension mountain bike and soaked me!! Kristian was taking photos so should be some good ones!

We rode really well for about 15 km – having to be fairly careful in picking the right lines – the scenery is really cool! Large spread out canyons – reminds me of Flagstaff, Arizona and the Grand Canyon of course!! We caught up with Adam and Jorg and slowed up to ride behind them for a while! Then surprisingly at 25 km we see the lunch truck – they had warned us the night before we might see it early depending on conditions!! Just after there was a river that we would not be able to cross – they had had to open the dam further upstream (very unusual as that is considered a great waste!!) So that was the end of today’s race!! We spent some time there eating cheese and apples – before taking the detour. A 500 m hike through the bush to some train tracks and over the railway bridge and another 500 m hike the other side back to the road where we could continue on our way!! So this is where Dennis decides he wants to do his “Naked Mile” (a TdA tradition!!) So – on the other side he strips down and then rides back to the river to wave at everybody at lunch before taking off! He disappears into the distance!! Pretty hilarious!! Scott and I rode together although his bike is still not right – his chain keeps sticking! In the end we stopped to clean and lube it – and it did seem a little better. We had a really great ride – chatting with people as we passed. Then finally we find Dennis again and he puts his clothes back on (that was way more than a mile!!)… The views are great and the road improving all the time as it dries out. Not much wind – we just enjoyed each other’s company, enjoyed the views and enjoyed not racing! Made it to a really nice camp – an Overlander and checked in. Then we proceeded to eat tons as usual – cheese and ham sandwich, schnitzel and fries, pasta carbonara, cheesecake and beers. Am now just getting organized for tomorrow – our last race day – a big mando day!! 172 km off road – its going to be interesting!!

TdA on the Coast

The riders have their first view of the ocean after all this time - today's long ride of 162 km brings them to a beach camp in Strandfontein. Looks like Paul set off quite early this morning - so maybe he was keen to get there and go for a swim??

Fun? in the Mud - May 5

Last night we were able to camp inside a “shed” at the campsite which was just as well as this morning it was pouring with rain and very cold!! I wasn’t too sure what to wear so tried to put on a few layers of different clothes! Everyone was looking really miserable at breakfast – it was just raining so hard! Ended up with my long pants and big rain jacket which is more waterproof. Badge out and head down to the road! All the racers are together. The road is just terrible – super soft, sandy, sloppy mud – everyone was just sliding all over the place. It was a lot of work and effort to go at even 10/12 kmph – and there is 30 km of it and it is still raining hard!
We are riding as a group but not trying to draft – every now and then someone will cross and you get sprayed. Of course I actually really enjoyed it – I thought it was hilarious! A lot hated it though and I could see why! A few tried it and then had to give up – many didn’t even try when they saw the conditions. We slipped and slid and I had a great time! Adam had a flat early on and disappeared. Don’t know how Paul coped with his skinny tyres! I just pressed on. Scott caught us and he was really flying and I was pleased as that meant he would be with us for the ride later! 1 km later and he snapped his chain. (I didn’t realize this till later so was still expecting him to catch us but of course he never showed) There was about 10 km when it did get slightly better and we nearly made it to 20 kmph – but then it got worse again! Jorg was now with us – so we were a group of 4. Then Jorg really sped up but I didn’t want to leave Dennis behind as he is good to have with you on the 90 km of road coming up later! Back on the road we reached a village with deep puddles for us to go splashing through to clean our bikes. I was really warm by now. Managed to bump the speed up despite the headwind and caught up with Jorg again – so the 4 of us back together. Jorg and Dennis are keen to press on and try to make up some time on Adam – and of course I too want a good time today and Paul – well Paul is just there!! The three of us rotate at the front a few times and I am just about to tell Paul he had to do his part as well when he went to the front. It was just about at the time when the wind really picked up and he realized he needed to be in the group with us. We were riding quickly – mainly because we wanted to get finished as quickly as possible. It was horrible! We hung out at lunch for about 20/30 minutes – it was really strange as there was all the food laid out and only the 4 of u sthere!! We ate pretty well – but soon got cold and so decided to set off again. I was now pleased that I had my long pants and jacket!! Dennis left first – he was going to “ride slow” – but it still seemed hard work catching him. But we did! After about 80 km we started to climb – a wicked hill – very steep – and now I am far too hot with all my gear on! I managed to pull off my jacket at the top – and then we stopped for a pee break so I could remove my long trousers!! Then we had a long descent into the canyon – but we could see the road ahead climbing up and out again! Quite daunting! It was a very tiring day – there was not much chatting going on! Getting close to the distance now and we crossed over a big bridge and saw a piece of flagging tape so take a right – but we are not totally convinced as there is usually more tape! But we zig zag along the dirt road and someone asks the question “Who wants this win?” Well I do and Dennis says he is not even going to challenge as I did more work today. But we are all tired. However none of us are really sure of this road. Then we get to a massive puddle and I can only see one set of truck tracks – so really not sure this is right! I am just about to turn round about half way through when Dennis shouts to keep going as he has seen a sign with the name of the town – Seeheim and sure enough we eventually see the Finish flag!! What a day!!

After putting our bikes away we went up some steps to the bar area – already full of riders who had come in on the truck!! I filled myself with coke, beer and burgers as a reward!! Len had got us a room – for myself and Dennis – which was great. The only problem is it was up a load of stairs – almost like a turret in a castle. Room was great though. It was still raining hard so we arranged for Steve and Adam to use up the floor space in the room – worked out well. After a shower and change of clothes we were just sitting and waiting for everyone to come in when we saw the cruiser come in with both Scott’s and Tori’s bikes on top! “Oh no!” We all know they are EFI with every chance now of making it to the Finish. But we find out that both bikes are broken – but that Steve had lent his to Scott and Tori had borrowed Christine’s. At least they are both still riding – although Scott had to take Steve’s shoes as well at several sizes too small!! And we were hoping the seat post was high enough!! Steve said he was in good spirits and great they are both still riding!!

There were a lot of people picked up in the mud this morning before even hitting the road! It was probably an hour after us that anyone else arrived – but then they slowly drifted in – everyone exhausted. Scott and Tori both arrived safely – and then had to set to to mend their bikes for tomorrow. Scott’s was a bit of a nightmare and Tori had to improvise a little as well. But they are ready to ride again tomorrow which is good – everyone is sharing parts and really helping each other out! A great spirit!!

Another Mando Win - May 4

Just before going to bed last night we heard that Adam was planning to leave early this morning, so after some discussion we decided we would all do the same and go with him. When I went to the bathroom at 5 am Dennis already had his tent down – he’s usually the slowest so I was shocked. Everyone seemed ready and just waiting to go when Kendra said “You do realize Adam left at least 5 minutes ago? ….” He had snuck off quietly!!! So Jorg, Dennis, paul and myself quickly grabbed our bikes and also set off. I was feeling good – and looking forward to today’s ride – basically about 100 miles mainly off road. It was unusual for us to leave so early – and meant we only had a few people to pass. We began to climb with Paul sitting behind and leaving all the work to us! We want to stay together if possible because at the end there is about 50 km of flat and you don’t want to be doing that on your own at the end of the day. But we are also chasing Adam. We knew he would ride hard and he is very good at going alone. What we didn’t know was exactly how far ahead of us he had left. Even so I wasn’t in too much of a hurry to start with and I slowed to chat with Bastiaan for a while and then had to chase down the others. Jorg was pushing hard at the front and I too was feeling good all through the hills – however I didn’t want to lose Dennis so didn’t go as fast as I could have. The views were amazing again – with mountains on either side with the road snaking through the countryside.I was afraid we might be too early for lunch at this rate but we saw the truck pass us at about 30 km so that was good!! We still hadn’t seen Adam – even in the distance – which was amzing. Kendra said he was about 3 minutes ahead of us – so I stocked up with water and drank loads there – determined not to get dehydrated today – had a quick sandwich and we headed off. Jorg had already said he was leaving us at lunch so now it was just me and Dennis with Paul following. We were confident that we would be able to catch Adam. There was a bit of a headwind now and it was hilly and we were chasing hard – and so it was beginning to get painful. Getting closer to 100 km which always makes you feel better – even though we still had another 60 km after that. With about 45 km to go we turned right through a little village – a lot of riders had stopped here. As it was such a long day quite a few had taken the truck to lunch and then cycled in the afternoon. There seemed to be bikes parked up everywhere – I was so jealous – really wanted to stop!! But no – not today!! We hit some tarmac and Dennis immediately sped off so I went with him. We were still working together – not really racing against each other – just trying to catch Adam – that was our goal!! I had thought that most of the riders from lunch would have stopped at the village so there would not be many in front of us apart from Adam. The road was a lot better and we were going quicker – and my legs hurt!! We were really pushing. Then we saw someone in the distance and were excited to think it must be Adam – but over the next rise we realized we were gaining too quickly so it couldn’t be him. A little bit later the same thing happened again – but finally we passed the last rider from the earlier group and knew if we saw anyone else ahead it would be Adam. Dennis was tired and taking shorter turns at the front – which meant longer ones for me. It was a case of gritting your teeth and getting through it. The miles were ticking away quite quickly at about 35/40 kmph – but it was a lot of effort. We knew we weren’t going to catch him now but would our times be faster? I was going through things in my head as I rode “If Adam wins this mando that means I will have to make up an extra half hour for this section. That means I definitely have to win the last mando ………..” We really pressed on and finally finished the day in 5 ½ hours. Nick told us that Adam had arrived about 10 minutes before us – so it didn’t look as if we had gained any ground on him!

We went off to get some drinks and quickly grab a room. Sat at the bar and had about 5 sodas – whatever they had – orange, apple, fanta …… Just drank and drank!! Following a quick shower both Dennis and I practically passed out and had a good nap!! I really can’t believe that Adam managed to ride on his own like that for 5 ½ hours – no way could I do that – to hold that speed on your own through headwinds and corrugation! We could see from his tracks that he was zig zagging – which means he was standing up and really going for it! Unfortunately for him my time was actually about 5 minutes faster than his in the end and so I did win the mando day!!

Finally we woke and had more drinks! Just relaxing now ready for dinner – then off to bed as I am still exhausted! We have three more days this week and then we have pretty much agreed that that’s the end of the race. We do not intend to race each other in the last week of the tour! We will just check in and out at the same time each day. So – 3 more days and the last one is a mando. Be great if I could win that one as well! I just need to make sure I still get this section if we do end the race early – that was my goal!!

The Beauty of Nothing - May 3

Had to get up extra early this morning because the shuttle trucks from the Lodge were going off for some maintenance work – but they did give us a “packed lunch” so that was good!! So we were back at camp at about 5.30 am while it was still dark. Jorg and Adam left and I was waiting for Dennis and Paul was waiting for me – we were also kind of waiting for Scott, but he then helped Bastiaan who had a problem with his bike. So in the end I left with Paul and Dennis. We had a fairly long day ahead of us – 139 km. We rode together over bumpy, sandy, corrugated roads for the morning. I stopped to take some photos of a lodge we passed that looked like a castle and so then I had to chase them down to catch up. Then we were lucky with a tailwind after the earlier headwind. All this time we are riding through the most beautiful valley – I can’t believe how deadly quiet it is – there is nothing! We might ride for 50 km and then see a sign for a guest house or farm – and then ride another 50 km before seeing another one!! No stops along the way today. Suddenly I seem to be on my own having dropped Paul and Dennis. There are sandy gulleys in the road where wet soft sand collects and they can really bog you down. I decide to speed up to try to catch Jorg and Adam. I found myself a really good track just off to the side of the toad through the trees – more protection and so less of the soft sand over there! I was looking around as I rode – just enjoying the scenery – saw some springbok out in the field. A whole lot of nothing – but still quite amazing to look at – you can get lost in yourself looking at nothing!! Big fields, big plains, big mountains!! Caught up with Jorg and Adam about 10 km from lunch – and Paul had done one of his usual magic trips about that time as well – suddenly appearing at my side!! He then decides to go out in front – pretty damn quick – he turns and asks me if the pace is fast enough!!! We climbed a short hill into lunch – the 4 of us now. Adam bought Jorg a beer for his birthday and we sat and enjoyed a good lunch together. Adam left first saying he wanted to ride easy for a while – I have given up on these guys when they say that – if I say it I mean I will go about 5kmph until the others catch me – you never know when they say it!!! When Paul, Jorg and I leave Adam seems to be getting further and further away – so I speed up and Jorg decides to drop off. As soon as we reach Adam he really takes off and we are travelling really fast over corrugation and sand with a fair headwind as well. Finally about 30 km out we reach a rest stop and Adam realizes he has a slow leak – he sorted it and then went off fast again only to have to stop a little later to sort it again!! Paul and I were happy to slow down as well although we did eventually lose him. Just the 2 of u snow and the miles were dragging on and hurting even though we weren’t really pushing now. In the distance we could see 2 water towers and we knew that must be where camp was – it was the only sign of life – there was nothing else around!! In fact camp actually came 2 km earlier than expected – great!!

I was able to pitch my tent under the shelter of a car port like structure and then went off to the shop to stock up on drinks and ice cream – I was feeling slightly dehydrated today. I spent all my money so went back to camp to borrow some and then returned to the shop for more snacks and a toastie – much to the amusement of the woman there! After a lie down in the shade it was time for cheeseburgers – and we were treated to yet another amazing sun set – the colours through the clouds are incredibly stunning. Then we had a drink to celebrate Jorg’s birthday and off to bed. I wanted to get a good night’s rest to be ready for tomorrow’s mando day!!

Sossusvlei Sand Dunes - May 2

Scott woke to leave at 4.30 – I guess I probably could have joined in then – but there was also some confusion over the cost – the hotel seemed to be charging twice as much at $500 than if you had booked through TdA earlier – it seemed a lot of money. When I eventually got up I had a great breakfast sitting out on the balcony admiring the view – the stillness!! There’s nothing – just the wind gentling waving the long grass and red sand dunes off in the distance – with hills surrounding the scene. I then met up with James who had also managed to miss out on the morning trip and we decided to maybe do the evening one instead. $100 was still a lot to pay but cheaper than the morning’s outing. It seemed as though it would be good – especially as with all the recent rain these are once in a lifetime conditions!

Lunch was pretty good but we had to persuade them to give us a second round of food – think they were a bit shocked at how much we could eat! At 2.30 we set off for the dunes – it was a great drive through amazing countryside – quite unbelievable – we saw ostrich, baboons, gemsbok, springbok, kudu and the most amazing sand dunes!! The first few we reached had grass growing and then further down the valley just sand. Sand dune after sand dune after sand dune!! After about an hour we went off road and went right down onto the river bed – where there was a lake at the end. Pretty amazing. We drove along the river bed and then stopped and headed off towards the Dead Vlei – basically dead trees that have been there hundreds of years because they don’t rot. Very eerie! Walked up over a sand dune – which was not easy –this is probably the most we have walked the last few months – so using a few muscles we don’t use on our bikes! There was a big clay flat lake and then all these dead tress – apparently they are much photographed and have appeared in lots of movies – must have looked especially forbidding in the morning mist!! We then went back to the truck and drove over to the other side right by the lake – which was surrounded by sand dunes. We walked up one – a couple of hundred metres – hard work – much more fun running down it again!! Then we climbed up on top of the truck and enjoyed a couple of beers and some snacks as we watched the sun set!!

Back in the truck I was half asleep for the drive home – we were there just in time for dinner. They seemed to have learned that we would want plenty of food as there were loads of sides to go with a great game steak following bacon soup! I also ended up having 4 puddings – so was feeling good!! And ready for bed!!

Thunderstorms and Time Trials - May 1

There was one hell of a thunderstorm last night! I pitched my tent next to a building for some shade but of course there was no gutter so all the water from the roof landed on top of my tent!! Did actually realize this before going to bed but couldn’t be bothered moving!! Woke up in the middle of the night to the storm and could feel about an inch of water on the right hand side of my tent – but it wasn’t coming through so I went back to sleep! Woke again later and there was even more water under my tent. So I packed up all my loose stuff into a bag – so there was only my mat, bag and myself in the tent – just in case! I could feel loads of water all round the tent and it is really raining hard out there – but I am dry. Should I get out and peg out my tent better? But then I would get very wet. So I left it and went back to sleep again! When I did get up everything was still totally dry inside – though the outside was covered in mud as well as being soaking wet – but the inside perfectly dry – I am really impressed with this tent!!

Today we have the 30 km time trial. There is a 15 km warm up to the start then lunch and then the rest of the day is not timed. We had start times – mine was 7.50 so I had plenty of time. We ended up returning to the bakery for more apple pie and coffee for breakfast. Really good. Out on the road we are treated to a beautiful sun rise. Amazing scenery – the mountains and plains are breathtaking – and full of long grass – they have had the most rain here for 70 years – so this place doesn’t normally look so green. All in all pretty amazing – most people have never seen it like this so we are really lucky – though it would be good to come back and compare! It is just so unspoiled and there Is nothing here to spoil it – no buildings, no no people – just a few animals!!

Anyway – we rode the 15 km nice and easy – Scott, Bastiaan and myself. Bastiaan made us do some sprints to warm up and get our heart rate up – so we did! At the start I rode around a little more until it was my turn. Tori was ahead of me so she shouted “See you at 10km” I hadn’t really thought about how long it would take to catch up! I decided I was going to go flat out and so I stood up on my pedals and went for it all the way up the hill – my heart rate was at 180 – but I was feeling good – not sure if I can last 30 km like this but we will see. I catch Tori after 4 km which means I have already made up 2 minutes which feels good. I can see the next person ahead – as it climbs we turn a corner into some headwind. I am still riding really well – just going as fast as possible. Having such a good time – riding well, passing people. There are a few river crossings. Then after about 15 km I hit a rock which bounced my chain off and I must have shifted at about the same time – something happened and one of my chain loops got caught in a tooth and caused the chain to bend out at the side - so I had to stop to try to fix it! I could see it was bent and dint know what to do. In the end I decided to carry on riding till it snapped – but ride a lot slower. It was shame as I was doing so well. Anyway I pedaled a lot softer – just trying to spin the pedals without applying too much pressure so it wouldn’t snap. Just hoping it would survive. This time trial counts and I didn’t want to lose 10 minutes plus trying to fix the chain. So I carried on just hoping it would be OK – at least I could recover!! I got my breath back – I had finished!! And Scott didn’t quite catch me – although he came in 30 seconds after which means he was 90 seconds faster! I hope Scott won – it looks like he did – with me, Dennis and Adam all close for 2nd, 3rd, 4th – so at least it wasn’t a complete disaster!! The order doesn’t really matter! I should still be first or second for the section so far! Things are looking good! And if I hadn’t broken my chain I would definitely have been closer to Scott’s time!!

Then we had lunch with only another 35 km to ride! Again the views are just incredible. We seem to be getting further and further away from anything – in the middle of big, open plains surrounded by hills – and its all so green as well! We are trying to look out for animals but not much luck there. We rode fairly slowly all afternoon – there was a good steady climb and we gradually turned to the left putting us more into the headwind. The wind was really really strong and we had to shout at each other to talk!! Eventually we see a right hand turn with 10 km to go – immediately it is quiet and we are being pushed along by the wind!! Awesome!! We were still on a great dirt road – everything is looking good! We happily rode the last 10km into Sossusvlei.

There were no rooms left at the lodge down the road – although there was a very confusing list with some names showing rooms booked. I tried at the lodge nearer camp but they were also full – and the price was twice as much at $300 a night anyway! We walked about 1 km to a garage to use the internet – there really is nothing much else here! Just the camp, the lodge next door and another one 4 km down the road!! We went to the bar and restaurant – everything I tried to order they seemed to be out of!! How were they going to cope with the whole tour today and tomorrow? Feeling a bit fed up now so went for a shower and then washed my tent of all the mud and put it up to dry. Scott is still trying to work us out a room at the lodge down the road but I have pretty much given up and am concentrating on sorting out my tent. Suddenly he comes running over saying he had got us a room – 150 a night including all meals!! I was able to persuade one of the other riders to take my tent down when it was dry and put it away – and off we went to the lodge. A truck drove us into the park and on the left hand side we could see wooden chalets built into the side of the hill – and we realized this is where we would be staying!! We had to walk along an elevated walk way to our room – the most incredible, amazing views. Fantastic!! We go off for some food and then just lay out by the pool!!

There is a trip to the dunes being planned for the morning at 4.30 am but initially I do not want to go – as I wasn’t keen on getting up so early so I declined thinking others would as well. But – no it turned out that nearly everyone wanted to do it – however it was a bit late for me to change my mind even though it did sound as though it would be fun! So I kept quiet – it was my fault!! Never mind! Anyway I went off to bed and looked forward to my lie in instead!