Day 0: The ride of my life.

5am and the dawn breaks on the day of reckoning.  A short but restful sleep, we headed down for breakfast, which was supplemented by a couple of pots of instant porridge we had bought with us.  I thought I had managed to stave off the nerves but it was pretty difficult to get breakfast down, and I had had three nights bad sleep, so maybe there were some underlying nerves there. 

By 6:30 I was descending off Alpe D'Huez to the start.  It was a beautiful serene morning, and everyone was dropping down the hill in silence, making for a surreal start to the day.  I arrived in the 4000+ pen after bidding farewell and bon courage to Mark, who had a start number with the elite riders.  I got a good position about 200 metres from the front and soon got chatting to some Aussies.  Spirits were high, the temperatures were cool and after about 45 minutes our group was called forward.  Trois! Deux! Un! and we were off!!!  After hearing my dibber beep as I passed over the start line I soon settled into the biggest peleton I have ever ridden in.

We had motorcycle escorts for the first section on the flat, and it was cool enough to wear arm warmers.  At this stage the nerves turned to excitement, just enjoying the spectacle of 7000 cyclists filling the road, cheered on by bystanders and stopped motorists.  20 minutes later and we were at the bottom of Glandon.  It was an easy start up, over and along the dam and then the work started.  The gradients were hard, which was made more difficult by being in a tightly packed group as I spent the entire first section of the climb constantly watching the wheels in front of me and jostling to keep my position. I had a couple of near misses with over excited testosterone filled guys overtaking on my right and then cutting in front, making me have to slow down to avoid their back wheel hitting my front.

The descent after Rivier de Allemont was made trickier by the faster guys overtaking, taking my line.  Luckily my well practice cornering skills meant I could negotiate the turns pretty tightly to keep safe.  Then came the worst section of the Glandon.  It ramps up like a UK climb and a lot of riders slowing up.  Due to the crowds I kept on the wheel of a couple of guys for a while, rather than trying to get around riders on a steep climb.  But then I started getting a whiff of cheese, really strong cheese.  Either someone had a brie sandwich in their back pocket or was literally sweating the stuff.  It started to make me feel nauseous so I over took the two guys who I had been following and then it was back to fresh mountain air.

By this stage it was getting pretty hot, the arm warmers had come off and people were already stopping for rests on the side of the road.  Due to my recce in May, I knew that I just had to dig deep on this steeper section until the dam came into view.  Soon enough I was onto the easier gradient and over the top of the dam to see the barrage in all it's glory.  I could taste the first summit now and a few kilometres later I was at the junction to turn off for the summit of the Glandon, where there were crowds of people cheering us mad folk on.

I wasn't really prepared for the bun fight at the feed station. Finding food was okay but it took me awhile to find the water as it was so crowded I couldn't see it.   I joined the fight for water and ten minutes later I was ready to descend, trying not to be too put off by the the ambulances and emergency helicopter

This was the section I was most nervous about due to the reputation for crashes and there are some pretty hairy hairpins.  Luckily the descent had been neutralised so the pressure to race down was off.  Red flag waving marshalls warned us of the worst corners and everyone gave plenty of space.  I have to admit I was a bit slow at the top but I soon got my descending skills back, despite going past the scene of another crash, and enjoyed the exhilarating ride to the valley floor.  

I was anticipating that the ride to the bottom of the Telegraph would provide a chance for some recovery time before the next climb but it was so hot that I really started to suffer.  After a bit of work I managed to get onto the back of a group, which turned into a bigger group when we swept up more people.  Unfortunately I felt the effects of the shelter and thought I was going to pass out from the heat. I needed a breeze!!  So I eased off the pace for a bit just to get some air.  Reaching the water stop at St Michel de Maurienne, I was so hot that I treated myself to pouring a 750 ml bottle of water over my head - helmet and all.  The heat was unbearable but luckily there was some clouds building and the odd rumble of thunder.  (my computer gave a max temperature reading of the day of 43 deg c - and it felt it here!)

Still it was time to hit the Col de Telegraphe.  There were people stopped in the shade of the trees all the way up.  Many were on mobile phones - texting, tweeting or pulling out?? Who knows.  I kept plugging away, keeping an eye on my heart rate and slowly passing others.  I really suffer in the heat relative to others, or so I thought because there seemed to be others suffering more than me today.  When I got to the top of Telegraphe there were a lot of people sitting around.  I actually felt in good shape, except for a sore back, and so I carried onto the food stop 2kms up Galibier.  Here I gorged myself on banana, baguette and more water.  Thank goodness I had bought tonnes of Nuun tablets so I could turn water into an electrolyte drink and keep hydrated well.

On the way up to Plan Lachat it began to rain which was such a welcome relief, although the sound of thunder was foreboding.  Another water stop, another gel and then it was time for the last 8km of Galibier. It was just incredible! There was fork lightning below us, an Audi full of Aussies driving up and down with a Tour de France horn and you could really feel the atmosphere building.  I love the last section of a proper mountain climb. And the fact it gets steeper just adds to the challenge.  I was so up for the last 2kms, which is like the ramp snaking up to heaven.  It got a bit tricky as there was a lot of debris and water from the snow melt, and completely out of it people walking their bikes up.  I got out of the saddle at the last 1km, had to negotiate around a few slow people and even changed up a gear for the last 500 m.  I guess the acclimatisation earlier in the week had worked.

It was absolutely freezing at the top and it took a lot of energy in the wind to get the extra layers sorted for the descent.  The first 2 kms were quite tricky but the views were incredible.  You can see forever to the valley floor.  At this point I suddenly felt very cold and extremely tired.  The three nights bad sleep, three cols and the heat must have taken their toll.  I had also started to get stomach cramps from the water.  It took all my concentration to get off Galibier.  I went through the scene of another bad crash - four ambulances, a closed road and riders lying down the side of the mountain. This reinforced the need to take care.  I had no option but to stop for a caffeine hit at the first cafe I could find. 

Next was absolute cycling heaven.  40 kms of downhill, that just seemed to go on forever.  Even with tunnels and the odd tight corner it was not too technical.  Due to my tiredness I felt like I was in a dream.  I even felt like falling asleep at one point.  I got to the bottom of Alpe D'Huez at 7pm, an hour after the cutoff.  I was absolutely done in.  To get to the top would have taken me ages, given my state, and to be honest I was chuffed with getting this far.  I didn't have summit fever enough to push myself to the top of the Alpe at all costs. So I handed my dibber in,  and got on the bus with the other "slow coaches". 

I had ridden 160kms, ascended 4000 metres and am extremely proud of my achievement.  I had the best and toughest day ever on my bike. For many, just to do the circuit is good enough and now I understand why.  In recognition of my efforts I officially finished the Marmotton*, with a Gold Medal no less.

*the Marmotton is awarded to riders who complete the Marmotte route without Alpe D'Huez

(100 miles taking in Col du Glandon, Telegraph & Galibier).

5 Days to Go: Shipping Out

Well the bags are packed for the flight to Lyon tomorrow so it's no going back now.  I am fitter than I have ever been, developed muscle definition like never before and am pushing much bigger gears up the hills now.  I have had tears, laughter, tantrums, hard days, good days, thrills and spills.  Could I have done more training?  Without doubt.......if I didn't have a full time job and other commitments....and lived as a hermit to avoid those bugs. At times I have felt like my body (and sometimes mind) could not possibly take any more.  But that is all in the past now.  I can honestly say that I am looking forward to next Saturday.  I am looking forward to the challenge, the scenery, the atmosphere and most of all that sense of achievement when I cross the finish line at the top of Alpe D'Huez.

So next time I write will be the moment of truth.....


.....watch this space. 

26 Days to Go: Bethany Edinburgh Sportive

Yesterday was a truly stunning day, both in terms of riding and weather.  On a rare perfect summer's day (25 deg) I rode the Bethany Trust Edinburgh Sportive.  Starting in Bonnyrigg, just outside of Edinburgh, the ride heads over the moorfoot hills into the Scottish Borders.  We arrived just before 9am and set off by 9:15.  It was already warm enough to be comfortable in shorts and short-sleeves. Even had the summer Assos socks on instead of the normal merino wool socks.  I started in a group of four but one guy shot off, and the other two were a lot slower than me so I was on my own within a couple of minutes.  But as it was such a glorious day it didn't bother me as I just took in the peacefulness of the countryside.

The first 45 minutes saw patches of some of the worst roads I have seen outside of Lanarkshire.  The normal big potholes from our severe winter were there, along with big patches of gravel due the seal being broken up. To be honest I was glad to be riding on my own as it makes it easier to see and avoid the worst bits.  Once the route turned onto the B road heading over the moorfoot hills it was back to decent roads.  The first climb over the moorfoot hills, which climbs up to around 250 metres, felt really gentle after the Alps.  So much so that I tried to catch a guy who had passed me a couple of miles earlier.  Sadly I couldn't catch him but not for lack of trying.  The descent was brilliant - no brakes needed. I hit Innerlethien 30 minutes before the only cutoff point, catching the guy from the climb!

The first feed stop was here and it looked like everyone was out for a picnic.  I never seen such a leisurely food stop.  But on such a glorious day you do feel inclined to relax and enjoy the breaks.  I caught up with David Hills from the club here.  After a bit of chat I grabbed a banana and some water, and headed back to talk to my hubby.  Next minute we heard the sound of a tyre going down.  It was David's tyre.  His bike was just lying in the sun so something must have heated up.  He had plenty of helpers so Mark and I set off again.  Mark soon dropped me on the next climb and I was on my own again. I had thought that I might have some company now but, as no one was coming up behind, I suspect everyone else at the feed stop was doing the shorter 71 mile route.

30 minutes later I was over the next climb and at the crossroads at the Gordon Arms.  The marshall asked me if I was the last rider.  At this point I began to suspect that I could be on my own for the rest of the day.  Never mind it was time to concentrate on the next climb, the Berrybush.  Another 30 minutes and this one was knocked off too.  This was feeling a bit too easy and I was making pretty good time.  My average speed was slightly higher than normal and my heart rate about right for an event.

The next stretch was unbelievably beautiful.  The road was like a ribbon, undulating through a valley passing a river and couple of small lochs.  I passed a couple of camper vans, in what looked like a very idyllic spot.  I got caught up by another rider at this point.  I was pretty pleased as I thought maybe there were some other riders coming up behind.  This pleasure was short lived when I found out he was the back up mechanic, and so last man on the course.  He told me the marshall had counted through all the riders on the long course and wasn't expecting any one else.  We chatted for a while and then I got dropped when the road went up again.  It was at this point that my legs began to feel very tired.  The accumulation of climbing from the Alps was beginning to show.  Looking the cycle computer I was less than halfway round so suspected it could actually be a tough day. 

I caught up to a group of four who I had passed earlier.  However, they were not officially riding the sportive but just happened to be on the same route.  Still it was nice to have a bit of company for a while and took my mind off my sore legs.  As they were heading in a slightly different direction we parted company and then I completely overshot a left hand turn.  Back on course the next feed station appeared - along with Mark and the mechanic waiting for me in the sun.  I have to confess I was feeling a bit rubbish being the last one through as it meant all the marshalls and helpers were hanging around for me.  I should have started earlier given my expected average speed, but I had thought that others would have started around the same time.  Still no one seemed bothered as it was a nice day to be hanging out in the countryside.  After a sandwich and a rest it was time to top up the bottles.  I discovered a slight problem with my Nuun tablets, they had started to react with the condensation caused by the heat and the foil was stuck to them.  After a bit of faffing I got one into my bottle and was off again.

I struggled a bit on the next section as my legs were really tired.  The route went over the Woll, which is beautiful but it was not helped by constantly being passed by classic cars out on a rally. Talk about exhaust fumes, a perfect trigger for my asthma.  But hey ho it is British summertime and we have to share the roads.  I battled on to Selkirk and then over to the next valley where the two rides meet up.  The broom wagon passed me and then stopped further up.  They offered me some water so I took the opportunity to take a caffeinated gel at this point.  A couple of minutes later I was in Clovenfords and there was Mark waiting for me outside the pub.  What a sight for sore eyes!  I confessed to Mark that I could quite happily climb into the broom wagon but I knew I wasn't going to. 

It must have been the gel because I felt a lot better after this point.  I was familiar with the section to the next feed stop and I usually struggle on it.  But I absolutely loved it.  The constant ups and downs were great and, although my legs still hurt, I was able to push them a bit harder.  Got a soaking when it rained for ten minutes or so, which was quite nice as it was pretty cooling.  Then I arrived at next and final feed stop to arrive to the welcoming committee of Mark and the mechanic - and the broom wagon.

A quick rest, another gel and it was the final 20 miles.  Once over the moorfoot hills it was a quick run back.  I arrived at the finish to a big cheer from all the waiting marshalls, and you guessed it.......mark and the mechanic.  8 hrs 45 minutes (including 45 minutes of rest) 2500 metres of climbing and a great sense of achievement.  

35 Days to Go: La Marmotte Recce Part 4 - Alpe D'Huez

Alpe D'Huez was always going to be my day of reckoning.  Four years ago I rode up my first alpine climb, Alpe D'Huez.  I was new to road cycling, had a basic aluminium road bike (i.e. heavy) and was completely overdressed for the occasion.  I remember being told that the first three hairpins are the worst and then things get easier.  So I counted down the first three corners,thinking this is okay, only to be faced with bend 21 - the first hairpin!  Needless to say it took me about 1 hour 45 minutes to get to the top, including quite a few stops.  So as you can imagine, my memory of Alpe D'Huez was leaving me feel a little bit apprehensive.

So here is attempt number 2, four years later...I rode from Allemont to get a warm up and then hit the lap counter just before the climb starts.  After the gradients on the Glandon I was prepared for the start of Alpe D'Huez.  I felt pretty strong and made sure I took a drink at every hairpin.  I hadn't worn my heart rate monitor, but went on experience to know when I was reaching my lactate threshold.  I find this climb a bit of a carnival atmosphere because it seems like every man, woman and spotty teenager is attempting it.  Needless to say this is good news because there is always someone to pass. 

I took it pretty steady until hairpin 18 when it eases up a bit.  After this point I pushed myself a bit as I wanted to get a time of less than 1:30.  Before I knew it 40 minutes was gone and I was about a third of the way up and caught up with, yep you guessed it, my dutch friends from the hotel.  It appeared that some of them were taking my approach from four years ago and taking in the view from some of the hairpins.  The good thing about this climb is that it is about 2% around each hairpin so you get a mini break, just enough to ease the muscles and breathing.

The climb is nowhere near as hard as I found it four years ago.  Last time I remember coming to a point where you can see the final climb to the ski village and feeling broken at what was yet to come. This time I looked up an thought - fantastic I am almost there.  I put the hammer down from this point on as it was only about 4 kms to go and I knew the last 2 are pretty easy.  Whizzing past the cafes (which some people think is the finish) I was soon passing through the tunnel and then it was a case of following the signs to the official Tour de France finish.  The last kilometre has a small decline for a few metres and then it is a left hand turn around the roundabout with 300 metres to go.  I caught some others at this point and went for a sprint finish.  Flying over the finish line I hit the lap counter - 1 hour 29 minutes!!!!  Well I know one thing for sure, it might not be the fastest time in the world but I achieved my target and it is a lot quicker than I will be doing on 3rd July.

So what have I learnt from this recce?

1.  I need to do some 2 hour intensive sessions so I can push harder on the climbs.
2.  The crux of the route is the last 8km of Galibier.
3.  New brake pads are essential for the day.
4.  I need to strengthen my hands for the descents.
5.  Getting food and drink right is essential.

What would I recommend for those of you doing it this year?

1. Complete a route such as Etape du Dales, Fred Whitton or similar to harden yourself up for route.
2. Buy a copy of the Cyclefilm DVD - The Trilogy Vol 3 - La Marmotte - it contains essential information.
3. Get out there and do the climbs if you can.
4. If you are booked at the Hotel Oberland, consider changing as it is not very good.

36 Days to Go: La Marmotte Recce part 3 - Walking the Galibier

In order to understand the final 8 kms of the beast that is the Galibier I attempted to walk the final 8kms.  The road is not as steep as it first looked as there are some switch backs to take some of the pain out, well at least until the last 2 kms that is.  Then it looks mental!  It was like looking at Hardknott and thinking how the hell did they build a road up there?  I couldn't walk the last 2km as there was serious avalance risk, and in the middle of the afternoon I didn't want to risk it.  So here are a couple of photos of the last sections.....

switch backs at 8km to go

the final 2 kms

37 Days to Go: La Marmotte Recce part 2 - Col dus Telegraph & Galibier

Wednesday was a much cooler day, which was fortunate because it was the day to attempt the beast that is Galibier.  In order to recce the route we first drove over the Glandon to see the descent.  It is scary!  The top section is steep and narrow, with tight bends and exposed drop offs.  There is a momunent at the top to a cyclist who was killed in La Marmotte in 2005.  I have done some pretty hairy descents in my time but this is pretty serious stuff.  My advice is stick to keep away from the far right and take it very very slow.  Good brakes and attention required.  Even after the first bit it looks quite steep and twisting so be prepared for a slow descent.

By this stage I was beginning to wonder what I had got myself into. I had expected the Glandon to be the "easier" part, now I was dreading what was to come.  Soon I was on the bike and heading up the Telegraph. Thankfully the gradients were much more forgiving at around 6 to 9%, which suits me as I can just chug up keeping a steady rythym.  The road has recently been patchily resealed and hadn't been swept so there was loose gravel for a lot of the climb. This didn't make the climb any easier, but at least that should be sorted on the 3rd July.  Once over the summit of the Telegraph it is a nice descent of about 5 kms into Valloire. 

After Valloire things change. Boy do things change.  The climb out of the village is tough going until the climb opens out to head up Galibier.  I was finding it really hard now as I had not mentally prepared for the rest of the climb.  The Galibier was shut so I knew I could only get part way up so I had  no idea what I was faced with.  In retropsect I don't think I had taken on enough food either.  This was all compounded by the road seeming to have endless sections that all looked the same. It is like having false summits when hillwalking, you keep thinking it would change around the corner but nope it just looked like the last corner.  I was struggling to get a descent speed and the gradient was only around 6 to 10%. Finally I got to Plan Lachat where the road was blocked. I was done in. I could have honestly thrown the bike in the ravine at this point.  An then when I was the road ramping up I felt absolutely beaten.  I had been passed by a snow plow earlier, my first thought was "Oh no they are going to open the road". 

I rested for 10 to 15 minutes, had some food and drink and then in my usual style wondered what all the fuss was about.  Honestly, do I need a sports physcologist?  Half the battle is in the mind and sometimes my demons appear to be winning.  After a rest I thought I could probably attempt the final 8 kms and it normally looks worse than it is.

38 Days to Go: La Marmotte Recce part 1 - Col du Glandon

We arrived in Bourg D'Oisans late on Sunday and after a terrible night's sleep at the Hotel Oberland (not  recommended), we moved to Allemont to find a nicer spot.  We happened to find the excellent Auberge La Douce Montange Hotel.  Once booked in , Monday was pretty much about catching up on sleep, setting up the bike and getting in some carbs.  However,  I discovered a loose crank on the bike so headed off to Bourg D'Oisans to get the bike sorted.  15 minutes and 11 euros later I was on my way.  As it was such a beautiful day I decided to "nip" up the Col D'Ornon to get the body and mind around alpine climbing.  It is a really nice warm up ride as the gradients are pretty gentle, and there is quite a bit of shade. Needless to say, this built up an appetite to partake in the pasta buffet at the hotel followed later by a 3 course set dinner.

Tuesday morning I woke to yet another warm summer's day, and with a bad asthmatic cough.  In my rush to pack I had forgotten my reliever inhaler, which I had not used for months.  I tried to ignore it and headed down for breakfast - the first lycra breakfast of the week.  The dining room was full of Dutch cyclists, particularly a large group who I found out later on were a group of firemen.  By 9:30 I was on the road.

The Glandon starts off pretty steep for a col.  Although officially the average gradient is 4.8%, with a max of 12%, certain sections of the climb actually reach 19%.  After gaining about 200 meters my breathing became very wheezy to the point I had to stop.  After 10 minutes of trying to get the breathing under control I set off again. Within about 2 minutes I was back to wheezing and coughing like a 50 a day smoker.  I had no choice but to stop.  This time I got off the bike and sat down to relax for 20 minutes.  Just as I was feeling better the Dutch firemen started to go past.  No one asked if I was okay so they must have either presumed I had stopped for a nature call, or had cracked on the climb.  I waited until the last guy went past and then got started again, this time making sure I took it easy.

It was hard work getting up to the village of Le Rivier D'Allemont, at about 1200 metres, as the gradient didn't seem to let up.  I stopped to refill my water bottle and could see a road dropping down into a gorge.  I didn't want to believe this was the route, but as I continued I knew it must be as I couldn't see where else the road could go.  Soon enough I lost 150 metres of height with gradients around 15 to 18%. 

The climb out of the gorge was tough.  I passed four "tourists" loaded up with panniers.  One of them was struggling so much she was cycling up the middle of the road, completely oblivious to vehicles and cyclists trying to get past.  Still it made me feel better that I was passing some people, and then I got overtaken by one of the Dutch guys.  I decided tried to tuck in behind him but couldn't keep up. Then around the corner I saw him getting into a van, with two of the other guys.  Guess I wasn't the only one finding it hard.

I could see a dam now and the gradient became more manageable as I could finally stay seated and find a rhythm.  Before  I knew it I was up over the dam and going past the Lac, where you get the first sight of the summit.  The road drops off gently and then it is like a ribbon stretching up a beautiful pass to the crossroads.  With the summit in sight it is like a giant carrot dangling and you get that burst of energy to put in the final charge for the top.  At this point I got chatting to a guy from London who had caught up with me.  As soon as he said he had ridden from the Col D'Ornon I guessed he was staying at the King of the Mountains, where I had stayed four years before. 

He resumed his own pace and then a few minutes later I made it to the crossroads, where you go left for the Glandon or straight on for Col de la Croix de Fer.  I turned left for the Glandon, got in a photo and then shot off for the last 2.5kms to the summit of the Croix de Fer.  The views from the Croix de Fer were outstanding.  I met up with the guy from London again who was with his friend Neil.  I realised that I had met Neil before when I had stayed at the King of the Mountains previously.  Talk about a small world!  They were also training for the Marmotte.  It was a relief to hear that they thought the Glandon was a tough climb too. 

44 Days to Go: Dales, Vales and Gales

I sit here tired and sore having upped the amount and type of climbing.  Going with the tried and tested wisdom of focusing on weakness I decided that I need to focus on harder, longer and more climbs.  My ability to ride for hours is strong, but any climbs over 10% and I feel my weaknesses come into play.

Last weekend we headed to the Lakes as Mark was completing part of the Fred Witton route (the idea to ride at the same time as the event to get some company).  As I was providing support by way of picking Mark up from the west side of the Lakes I did a shorter ride from Coniston.  I had forgotten how tough even some of the easier climbs were, and to be honest it is a bit of a shock after the more gradual Scottish hills.  I put together a superb short route taking in Hawkshead Hill, Kirkstone Pass, Langdale and then Hawkshead Hill again.  While it was only about 40 miles it involved 1300 metres of ascent. 

The real test came on Sunday in the Yorkshire Dales.  Mark was entered into Etape du Dales. As I was going to be there, and had managed to get a late entry, I attempted one of the "UK's hardest sportive". We turned up at 8ish on a wet, cold, windy morning.  After registering and sorting the kit out I was off at 8:40 with the marshall shouting - "Good luck, only 699 people ahead of you".  Yep, most had taken advantage of the early start time that was available from 6:30am.  This was going to prove a naive move on my part.

As there was a cutoff time of 2pm at 70 miles it seemed that most of the late starters were the fast lads.  I had calculated that I had time to make the cutoff but I had seriously underestimated the climbing time, and a strong head wind didn't help.  The first hour of the ride consisted of being passed by fast guys without so much as a hello. Were they pissed off because they started late or was this just the unfriendliest/ most serious event I have done? The first sign of company was when I got to the bottom of Fleetmoss when suddenly the pace eased up.  Spinning my way up as I remembered from riding this climb years ago there was a steep section at the top.  I must have been doing okay because a passed a few guys on the way to the top (who I spoke to I must point out), and managed the climb pretty easily.  Then it was the thrill of dropping down what must be one the best descents in the UK.  Although I quickly eased off when the strong side winds gave me the wobbles. 

The first food stop / checkpoint was just outside of Hawes. Unfortunately not much food left as 699 people had been through already, but managed to get some SIS GO which was a fantastic.  Picked up some friends here too as finally got some conversation out of my fellow Etape du Dalers.  So it was just Buttertubs, Turf Moor and Tan Hill before the next control point.  Heading up Buttertubs was okay but I was starting to get concerned as the occassional guy was seen heading the opposite direction, not looking too happy. But I tried to ignore that and once again I was looking forward to another enjoyable descent.  Dropping down at a fast but safe speed, hands hovering near the brakes I approached a tight left hand turn with caution.  I had noticed there were couple of cars coming so I made sure that I stayed well within the white line.  But the first driver completely cut the corner and I was faced with a stone wall and a car with about a foot in between.  The driver saw me at the last minute, swerved all over the road, and received an earful of abuse from me.  It was so close that I promptly burst into tears from the shock!  Pulling myself together I carried on to the next hill, for the next incident.

The initial approach up to Turf Moor was steep long section (for me anyway).  My legs gave up so I tried to unclip, failed miserably and ended up on the road - on to my right hand side which was already sore from an unavoidable crash the week before.  Unbelievably I have only had three offs on my bike, one spectacular one last year and now two in one week.  After some sympathy from a motorist, I dusted myself off and carried on.  Turf Moor and Tan Hill were bloody hard on account of a strong head wind.  Tan Hill just seemed to go on forever, and ever, and ever.  And then when you get to the top it is the most miserable place in Yorkshire.  On arrival the marshalls asked how I was.  Shattered was my response so they advised I rode to the nearest station and took a train home.  A train?????  As tempting as it was I was tired but not that tired.  Due to my late start it was absolutley impossible to make the next checkpoint by the cutoff of 2pm.  I was also told that I was only a third of the way into the route (not true!).  So after a cup of tea and a chocolate bar I grabbed some gels from the food stop and descended off Tan Hill, and headed back over Buttertubs.  I wasn't going to have battled that headwind all morning to not get the benefit of a tail wind. 

By now the steep sections of the climbs were taking their toll on my calf muscles (I did say I was crap at steep hills). I stopped for a strong coffee in Hawes to gather my strength to get back over Fleetmoss for the final push back to HQ.  I caught up with some other guys on this stretch who had also been sent back to Hawes.  I flew home on the final 20 miles after the final climb.  85 miles, 2600 metres of climbing.

I was gutted though when I check the splits on the results on Monday.  My time to Tan Hill was pretty reasonable.  Had I started earlier I would have made the cutoff and finished the entire event.  But you live and learn. 

61 Days to Go: Drumlanrig Tearfund Challenge

What a fantastic day yesterday, cycling the 82 mile Drumlanrig Tearfund Challenge around the beautiful, quiet Dumfries & Galloway countryside.  After the past few weeks I knew that this would be a real test of my fitness, especially as I had not ridden longer than 50 miles for awhile.  The forecast was for light rain and temperature of 8 deg, a bit of shock after the 18 deg we had been having.  Driving down in the morning through heavy showers I was bracing myself for a grim day, but the blue skies appeared as soon as I turned off the M74.

Wrapped up in mostly winter kit I set off in a small group at 9am.  After a couple of minutes I realised that there was another West Lothian Clarion rider in the group, who I had ridden with previously on our Rad Tour in March.  As our pace was pretty similar we ended up riding together, which makes a nice change as I often end up on my tod in these events. 

My decision to wrap up rapidly turned out to be the wrong one as I was overheating on the first climb, but this was quickly fixed when I removed my thermal top before the nasty 20% Dunnregan Brae. While this was not as long as those in the Lakes, the potholes and gravel made it very tricky.  Even worse was having to negotiate around riders walking up the climb!  

After that climb I felt properly warmed up, both mentally and physically and settled into the ride. Next came lovely open climbs with beautiful views.  We saw a flash of yellow, white and black as another Clarion rider passed us on the next long climb.  By this point I was used to the constant ups and downs and before I knew it 35 miles had passed, and there was only 8 to go until the lunch stop, and I was desperate for a cup of tea.

Now I am not sure if I have been spoilt by the last events that I have done, but I have got used to indoor feed stations with hot drinks.  I had forgotten that I should not expect more than a bit of food and some water.  As I have learnt my lesson, I don't generally partake in the food on offer as it can result in stomach pains if something doesn't agree.  I had just had four nights of pretty bad insomnia so was very tired mentally, so imagine my disappointment when there were no hot drinks or coke at the food stop. I hasten to add that this is not a criticism of the organisers at all, just my desperate mental state.  So I grabbed a banana, top up my bottles, dumped my superfluous clothing in the car, and headed off again. 

I was a bit concerned that I had ridden the first leg too hard, as my average heart rate was 154.  Normally I ride in the 140s.  This, coupled with my lack of caffeine, meant I went through a bit of a rough patch for the next 30 minutes.  When a couple decided to sit on my tail, without so much as a hello or the offer to work together, I was pretty hacked off.  They took off past me after 20 minutes and I tried to get in behind them but couldn't quite do it.  So as you can imagine I was not good company.  Then I remembered that I had some gel shots in my pocket - WITH CAFFEINE!!!! Yipeeeeeee!!!! So took a couple of those before the start of Mennock Pass.  Then I caught up with a couple of ERC riders, one of whom was very positive and commented on what a lovely ride it was with a big grin on his face, which put me back into a good mood.

Mennock Pass was fantastic! About 6 miles of climbing, albeit into a head wind, but when there is a trail of riders ahead of you there is something magical about everyone suffering together.  I started picking off riders one by one and felt the best I had all day.  Before I knew it I was at the next feed station with only 18 miles to go. 

I joined forces with the two ERC riders I had passed earlier.  We rode pretty well as a team, and picked up David (my morning's companion) and we made a team of four.  Pretty soon it was down on the drops for a beautiful fast descent to Elvanfoot.  Working as a team again we rode pretty strongly to the castle grounds before the last small push back up to the finish line. My total time was 6hrs and 1 minute!!!! I was gutted as I was aiming for under 6 hours. But then I won't let 2 minutes spoil a brilliant day and what was, for me, a strong performance.


  

68 Days to Go: Uphill Struggle

It's been a funny old week, pleased with my efforts considering that I am coming back from illness, but a bit freaked out that all is not going to plan.  Conjuring up images of Wonder Woman I thought I had fought a virus off in record time last week and went out for a normal training ride on "Ash Wednesday" (i.e. the days the planes stopped flying).  Unfortunately the next day I woke up with a chest infection and feeling rough again.  I realise now that the virus was not out of my system.  For once I listened to my body and completely rested.  Last Monday I was back into it.  Did a ride tempo ride after work and, although I didn't feel 100% on the bike, my recovery was normal. 

Wednesday night I linked up all the hills in the Bathgate Alpes to focus on getting my climbing muscles into shape.  600 metres of climbing and loved every minute of it!  Great, I thought, 2 days to recover until Saturday's long ride.

So yesterday came the shocking realisation that I am not Wonder Woman.  My plan was to do 85 miles in the Scottish Borders. I didn't feel particularly strong from the off and had to admit I wasn't enjoying the first stretch.  I felt knackered and looked that computer and realised I had only completed 10 miles.  Pulling myself together I took in the scenery, felt the warmth of the sunshine and tried to feel a bit more positive.  I had just began feeling a bit happier when some stupid woman let her ankle biting mutt chase my bike.  She just looked at me like a gormless idiot while I yelled at her dog to get away.  Well at least it got my speed up but didn't put me in a good frame of mind.

Then I got overtaken by someone!!! I must apologise to the poor guy who went passed just as I was clearing my nose on the roadside (and probably him - oops!). Not very ladylike I know but he didn't seem phased by it (but oddly took off pretty quick after saying hello).  I continued my battle of the wills and made a deal that if I got to Clovenfords with an average speed over more than 22 kph and an average HR less than 140 I would do the planned 85 miles.  However, as I struggled over the last small climb I realised that I was not being sensible.  If someone else was looking at the situation objectively I would be advised to not over do it as I would just pay in the long run. Plan B - stop for a coffee at Clovenfords and cut the ride short.

So I went all continental and stopped for a latte in the sun.  It was so nice to sit in the sun, in a short sleeve top and feel warm.  I felt a lot happier after deciding to do the shorter route.  Buoyed by my dose of caffeine I headed off to Innerleithen. Another impromptu speed session happened when I caught up with a bunch of mountain bikers at the lights for a single lane bridge.  As they pulled out in front of me I had no choice but to go on the outside of them to avoid a collision. I caught the lights as they changed and sped off from the lights, but one of the guys took umbrage and kept on my tail.  I always treat this section as a bit of a time trial effort as it is dead flat, so wasn't really trying to race him, honestly!  OK maybe I was racing him just a little bit. But near the end I was definitely racing him and left him for dead!!!

Back on the continental theme. I was in the Pyrenees last year and stayed at this weird village that had life size puppets everywhere.  Well when I pulled up to take off a layer in Innerleithen I was reminded of that village when I saw this lot looking out of the window.

That just left the final climb to get back to the starting point. And what a climb it was!  Beautiful constant gradient for the first 30 minutes, then a drop of 50 or so metres and then it's up again for another 15 minutes before the best descent ever.  So managed 50 miles, 1050 metres of climbing.  I had done what the books say which is to pick up where you left off when coming back from illness.  I hope I have made the right decision and will catch up with the training plan in the next few weeks. And I leave you with this image of my alter ego....

82 Days to Go: Down the garden path

A frustrating week as I have been fighting off another virus!  Two days out of the office, one of them spent in bed, so of course not much time on the bike. This weekend I have spent more time "relaxing" in the garden than on the bike. I have been extremely sensible and have been out for a very gentle 20 miles today, just to enjoy this lovely weather.  My biggest worry is that this disruption is down to overtraining, but to be honest I have been through it before and it doesn't feel the same.  Today, while I felt a bit weary, I didn't have those heavy legs that you get from overtraining, and I was desperate to get out on the bike (with overtraining I just lose interest in cycling).  I think it is just bad luck.

As a result of too much time on my hands I have now convinced myself that I want to buy some decent wheels. After much research I have my heart set on the Shimano Dura Ace CLs.  Unfortunately these cost over £500 (at a reasonable discount), which I am struggling to justify. Firstly, I have managed with my Mavic Askiums for a long time now, and they are not much heavier. Will I really notice the difference of the highly rated, highly priced Dura Ace?  Secondly, there is the opportunity cost.  All those things I could spend the £500+ on, a week's training in the alps, the new laptop that I desperately need, etc, etc.

So then I got thinking wouldn't it be great if you got a tax break on sports equipment.  Now I know that there is the cycle to work scheme, but come on I can't justify a set of racing wheels. Besides my workplace is home so a bit difficult to explain that one.  While the cycle to work scheme is fantastic, there is no "run to work scheme" or a "climb munroes on the weekend, to keep you fit for work scheme".  It would be too difficult to give people tax breaks for keeping fit, as how do you prove that unless you are monitoring gym visits or carrying out regular fitness tests.  So the answer is.... NO VAT ON SPORTING GOODS!!!!  I mean it makes sense.  Save 17.5% on the kit you want need for your chosen sport.  Plus you can import goods from the States and not have to pay customs charges (a real gripe of mine trying to source women's cycling tops - the USA have a much bigger range).  You can keep your tax breaks for married couples. Any party that comes up with that promise to remove VAT on sporting goods will have my vote.

88 Days to Go: Girl Interrupted

The change of seasons has bought the inevitable next round of bugs in the office.  The symphony of racking coughs is enough to put the wind up anyone in training, and sure enough I spent last weekend fighting off a virus.  Luckily this only resulted in a couple of days of feeling like crap and then I was back to normal by Monday.  So no long rides for me last weekend.  Oh and then that lovely white stuff made a reappearance three days after "British Summer Time" began.  I had the summer bike service last weekend and was really excited at the prospect of getting back into training after work.  But Monday night saw the summer bike firmly back on the turbo.

Managed 3 rides in 3 days this Easter Weekend.  Friday was a 33 mile local ride over the Lang Wang.  About five minutes into the ride I caught up with a local lady and, as we were planning to do the same route and were fairly evenly paced, we rode together. While the roadside was shoulder high with snow in places the roads were passable. Woolford cottages, which is not normally much to look at, looked like a picture postcard winter scene. With the lovely spring sunshine, and good company, it all made for fantastic riding. 

Saturday was an unplanned speed session as I needed to pick up my car from a workshop before it shut.  With about 90 minutes notice, the ride taking about an hour, and not being ready to go it was the fastest I had ridden in awhile.  Made with about 5 minutes to spare. 

So yesterday was the long ride with some long climbs.

http://www.mapmyride.com/route/gb/borders/426127046401722629

The forecast was for 100% cloud and 0.1mm rain, which usually means no rain or at the most light drizzle.  But when we arrived at the starting point it was freezing cold and raining.  Now I have to confess I am most definitely a fair weather rider so this was a test of my commitment to La Marmotte.  I put on all the layers that I had, gritted my teeth and got on with the task in hand.  The first climb was the most miserable experience on my summer bike ever!  Absolutely soaked legs, cold and poor visibility due to my cycling glasses being clogged up with rain.  But then once over the top I could see sunshine in Innerleithen.  Yipeee!!!  Rewarded for my efforts at last!  For the next hour or so it was lovely dry roads and a fairly easy run, albeit I was still cold. 

Once I turned back into the wind though, for the stretch between Clovenfords and Innerleithen, it was a struggle.  I felt so slow I thought I was back on the winter bike and every hill seemed like a challenge.  I really wondered if I had the mental strength to get back over the last climb.  I stopped for five minutes and ate another bar.  Well, after that I was flying and hardly felt the last long climb!  Wondered what all the fuss was about.  Lessons learnt in poor nutrition I think.  I put it down to needing more calories than normal due to being cold. 

Oh and the highlight......being rewarded with stunning views of mid lothian on the final, amazing descent of the day.

103 Days to Go: Spring has sprung

Finally felt like spring was here this weekend.  Felt very warm yesterday when I went out for a "hard as you can" burst around one of my normal training routes in an attempt to get faster and stronger on the hills.

Today's long ride was the route of the Selkirk sportive. Not as warm as yesterday, due to a horrible horrible head wind.  The ride started out with the climb over to Gordon Arms from Innerleithen into an energy sapping, demoralising head wind. No matter I thought, everyone else who was out will be in the same boat....until a women cyclist went past me.  Well that soon made me feel like utter crap, especially when I couldn't catch her (it's a girl thing, we don't like to be passed by another girl).  The only saving grace is that (I am sure) she was on a lighter bike.  Now bearing in mind that I was still in full winter kit the biggest shock was that she was wearing short shorts. To my delight I saw her turning around at the Gordon Arms crossroads, with a very red face and even redder legs! 

Still it was onto the next climb, back into the wind and avoiding the sheep up the berry bush.  All I could think about was the tailwind I was hoping to get once I dropped into the Ettrick Valley. And how right I was, a lovely fast run all the way to Selkirk.  Even managed to fit in an extra climb on the way. 

Have to say though I didn't feel that great as my legs hurt.  Good thing this was my easy week as I wasn't finding the ride particularly enjoyable on acount of feeling tired. Not sure if it was from Saturday's effort or not fully recovered from last week's long ride. 

After some Selkirk bannock and a cuppa with Mark I headed back to Innerleithen up the Tweed Valley.  Luckily the wind had dropped by this point so it was a nice amble back past some real signs of spring.

Time for a hot bath and a lovely green & blacks hot chocolate, with a shot of whisky.

110 Days to Go: RAD Tour

Fabulous day today, if not a wee bit challenging. Today was the West Lothian Clarion's RAD tour (Reliability Trial). 62 miles around the county, taking in 7 castles and what seem endless hills and undulations. To top that off I rode to the start and finish, adding 14 miles, to give a total mileage today of 76 miles.

The day started well, as the first 2 miles are uphill and then is a gradual drop of altitude over the next 5 miles to the start. Just under 40 of us started. I had opted to for group 2, with the aim to average 15 mph + breaks. It all started off well but then somehow I lost the back of the group, when overtaking the group 1. Took me a while to catch up to the stragglers but the main bunch were gone. As it was pretty windy this was not the best situation. But hey ho, I just had to make do. After a bit of cat and mouse on the next few miles three of us rode together. This soon dropped to two when David had a blow out and had to bail out. Steve and I rode on, riding at a consistent pace with a nice chat to take the mind off things.

Now I had thought the ride would not involve many hills. How wrong could I be. As well as those constant rises that sap your legs there was a endless climb from West Calder to one of the highest roads in West Lothian. But at the top was the most welcoming sign ever....3 miles to the feed stop! And what feed stop it was. After meanearing down a long drive we arrived to a very warm welcome at Neil's house and lots of happy cyclists. Three varieties of soup, bread, the best collection of cakes I have ever seen, bacon rolls, tea and in the comfort of a dining room. I wasn't the only one who could have quiet happily whiled away the afternoon here. Finally we dragged ourselves away and formed a nice group of six for the last 22 miles.

Bizzare moment at the traffic lights. A car came completely towards us as we were sitting in a filter lane (single lane). At the last minute they mounted the pavement in the middle of the lights and careened up off the hill almost taking out some other riders. We were so dumstruck we missed that the lights had turned green.

Looking forward to some downhill we trotted off and five minutes later there were two punctures. 15 minutes later we were finally off again. Beautiful country lanes were our reward but not as easy as we thought. Every time we turned west there was a very taxing head wind. The last ten miles were tough as mostly uphill with a head wind. I think everyone was in their own personal hell at this point, with most silently riding on their own. At 3:30 we finally saw the end, nicely situated by a cafe. Time to relax at last! or not as I still have 7 miles, mostly uphill to get home (and with that persisent head wind). Still there was time to gather the energy over a latte.

Not a pretty ride home. I don't think I have ridden so slow in a long time. I was having to use my granny on the most pathetic of rises. At about 3 miles from home I was confronted with the final hill, which was as bad as it looked (see above). Needless to say I sit here now extremely tired, but pleased with my efforts. And it was such a brilliant day talking to so many friendly happy local cyclists. Wonder what next week brings?

117 Days to go: Cracking ride

Cracked 60 miles yesterday, although I did wonder if it would be me cracking. Set out from Innerleithen in the Scottish borders to do some decent hills and mileage. I wasn't sure how I would feel as last spring I felt shattered on the first ride in this area after 40 miles. So I had an opt out, when I got to Clovenfords after 25 miles I could either take a rolling 15 miles back or do another 25 miles, to take in a couple of half-decent climbs.

Well I felt like I was on drugs for the first 25 miles. Best I have ever felt at this time of year, and that was on the winter bike too! so when I got to Clovenfords I decided to do the longer route. Happy days....but not for long. The next 10 miles were hell. I felt tired, my bum ached, I had real pain in between my shoulder blades and once I got to Selkirk I was committed to the two climbs. No worries I thought, I will stop at the pub at Ettrickbridge and grab a cuppa to gather my strength. Mark had started at the same time this morning. I knew he was stopping here for a brew so I was hoping I might catch him as he was heading out the door. Seeing Mark's bike propped up against the wall put a small on my face. That smile turned into a massive grin when I saw Mark had a full cup of tea so we could chat for awhile, and that I was only 15 minutes behind him!!!

30 minutes later I was on my way again. First stop was my favourite climb over Witchy Knowe. Still a brilliant climb. Descent was a bit slow on account of the snow on the road. Was dreading the next stretch to the Gordon Arms as I really struggle on this section. but guess what? NO WIND!! OMG What a difference!!! Don't know what the fuss was all about, with no head wind I flew along and before I knew it was heading over the last climb of the day.

all in all averaged 13.5 mph, which is pretty good for me considering the time of year and the bike I was on. Must be doing something right.

139 Days to Go: Winter Weight

Feeling the weight of winter out on the road, as it really shows that I have been lacking in training the last month or so. Have still been doing some turbo sessions (1 to 2 a week), which is good for speed and strenght. But when I had the first foray out on the road bike last weekend it was a major shock going up hill. Felt like I was dragging a rock behind my bike.

The truth really came out yesterday when I went out with the club yesterday on the Social ride.
Had a nice 7 mile ride to the meeting point. Rode over Torphichen (pronounced Torficken), which cuts out about 1/3 of the climb had I gone over Ballencrief (my usual route). I only went this way as it was around 0 deg when I set out, so I took the same route as the local bus, on the basis that the road would be gritted. Needless to say I was nicely warmed up after the 30 min ride to meet the club.

Was a bit worried when I saw the shiny clean bikes and fit looking guys and thought I might have to try to hang on to the back of the Active group. Thankfully Andy turned up at the last minute (baring his legs in shorts!) so there was enough for a social ride. We did 27 undulating miles with no major climbs to speak of (didn't even use the granny ring once). We probably average around 14 to 15 mph and felt a bit tired at the end but pretty strong.

So the option to get home was to go back via Torphichen (easy way out) or head over Bathgate hills (or Bathgate Alpes as the locals call them). Feeling fine after scoffing down some Go bar I decided for the latter.

Five minutes later I was regretting that choice. I had forgotten how tough the ride out of town to get to the climb proper was and how many other cheeky climbs there were to get home. Lets just say that it wasn't a pretty sight. I was shunning any form of human contact when I got home until at least a cuppa and some decent food. All told I must have done around 40 miles, which is not much! It took a sandwich, two cups of tea and a big mug of hot chocolate to come right. But then I remember the shock last year of doing the first 40 miler in spring and it felt like 60.

The worst thing is, I actually enjoy the feeling of being on my knees at the end of a ride. I feel like I have made the most of the time out on the bike. Good thing, because there is plenty more of that to come.

160 Days to Go: Sucking on diesel

Cross training yesterday. Went on a favourite route and felt the strongest I have ever felt on that run. Felt like I was "sucking on diesel". I find that running really helps my cycling as it improves my stamina, which in turn improves my climbing up steep hills.

Today I managed to get a ride in on the road, albiet on my mountain bike. 1st hill climbs in exactly one month, and felt really strong. Must be doing something right! Can't wait to get in some longer distance road rides though......maybe next weekend.

163 Days to Go: Caught Short

Think we booked what was possibly the last hotel in Alpe D'Heuz for the weekend of marmot. Phew! At least that is all sorted. Flights are booked. So just need to book a car, book the bikes on the flight and then train, train, train.

Down to shorts and t-shirt on the turbo yesterday. Did over an hour this time and really enjoyed it. Was sweating like the proverbial pig. Once I put the right track on I just find it really easy to push my self pretty hard. Just hope I feel the benefits when I (eventually!) get back on the road.

Anyway the geeky fact of the day (which I was told btw, didn't research myself) is that contador translates from spanish to english as "Accountant or Bookkeeper". Will remember that next time I am slogging up a col that I am a qualified "contador". (Wonder if that means I get to share a hotel room with Lance Armstrong?)

Now back to the ribble cycles sale. I need a new helmet, 25% discount, new contract landed today, say no more.....where's that credit card?

167 Days to Go: Black sunday

Black ice everywhere today! Tried to go out for a ride as temperatures have been around 0 to 6 degs for a week. What a disaster. Walked the bike to main road, which I was not bothered about as our road is never gritted. Main road was fine but as soon as I turned off the main road, on to a well used road in town, trouble began. You know it is not good when you hear cars skidding, and then next thing I knew I lost my back wheel. Luckily I was able to save a fall as I was going uphill. It just is not worth the risk so I went home and promptly got on the turbo. 48 minutes, average HR of 15o, max 167. Legs feel like I have done a proper ride with tough climbs. Getting restless now as really want to go out on the road. Could probably manage on a mountain bike but it isn't the same. Maybe tomorrow?

170 Days to Go: The thaw begins

At last things are beginning to thaw but the club, who haven't ridden since 21st Dec, are not planning a run this weekend as black ice is expected and minor roads are still treacherous. Training today was a 40 minute off road run in the snow. Great fun and beautiful conditions. The trail was so quiet that the only other soul I saw was a fox.

It is beginning to dawn on me now what a big ride I have signed up for. Reading what others are doing they are doing 3-4 hour weekend rides which makes me feel a bit off the pace. It also disturbs me when others react with awe when I tell them I have signed up for La Marmotte.....but then if you haven't done it yourself then the legend could be bigger than reality.

171 Days to go: On the road to nowhere

The snow is beginning to melt but still not safe to go out on a road bike so today was about fine tuning the turbo training, or as Mark puts it - riding my bike nowhere. Managed to adjust the tension so am getting loads more resistance. After about 20 minutes had to slow down as I was literally going to throw up. This is not due to a lack of resistance but a niggle I suffer from. If I eat too close to strenous exercise I get painful cramps and have to get stop exercising to ease the symptoms. If I don't will end up with the food being evicted from my body one way or another. Family thing - a pain the arse! Still I know now not to eat too close to a turbo session (I usually only have problems running or on a particulary hard climb)

So today I burned 306 calories over 38 mins, average heat rate of 142, max 167. Best tracks were;

Interval / sprint sessions - keep revs high and sprint all out during chorus

The Prodigy - Breathe (all time top favourite interval session song - used a lot in spinning classes)
Kasabian - Stuntman

Resistance - keep changing up a gear with each change in verse / chorus to mirror a climb

Goldfrapp - Oh La La
Kasabian - Seek & Destroy

Really enjoying these sessions - is great to start off in a down jacket / hat / gloves and be stripped down to a summer cycling top and sweat band after 10 mins :-)

172 Days to Go: Freezing beginnings

After a good year, cycling wise, I have decided to enter La Marmotte 2010. This is all on the back of completing a handful of sportives last year, including my first century. My strength is endurance and plodding up cols (emphasis on the plodding). So after registering my husband (Mark) and I, we confirmed on Friday that we are indeed registered for the event.

So you would think that the training would begin in earnest. But the conditions outside are against us. Snow, ice and freezing temperatures for the last three weeks. Today I saw a patch of grass on the front lawn, the first sighting of grass in two weeks. Still I had wisely invested in a turbo trainer in autumn so decided it was time to set the trainer up. After three hours phaffing about trying to fit a trainer tyre I finally got my first session underway. 45 minutes, average heart rate of 141 (up to a max of 160) I was impressed as this mirrored what I would do the road. This was all thanks to some great tracks from Kasabian and The Prodigy, spurring some good interval sessions.

This weekend I have begun planning events leading up to the big one. Needless to say my planning will be principal based but not a rigid training plan. These principals are;

- shock the body early in the season and then use this as the base mileage (i.e. got out for a couple of long rides to get the body prepared)
- increase mileage by 10% a week
- do an event about every 3 - 4 weeks, leaving a minimum of two weeks in between for longer events for recovery
- cross train
- enjoy the post ride treats!

Lets see how it goes.