The Totals For The Trip: 1008 Miles

10.5 days

Total Distance: 1008 miles (average 96 miles/day)
Time actually in the saddle moving: 83 hrs (moreorless 8 hrs a day)
Total Ascent: 54,000 ft (5100 ft /day)

Best and worst

Best day: Prestwick to Loch Awe, staying in a converted church in
Inveraray. Fantastic scenary, good road surfaces (9/10), wind not too
strong for long.

Hardest Day: Carlisle to Prestwick. Rubbish night sleep in a grotty
B&B, grumpy people, horrible route out of town mixing it with the big
trucks, lousy road surfaces (2/10), the most horrendous headwind. Good
lunch spot and great picnic (thanks Mike_S and Dean)

Prettiest place: Glen Coe, Glen Orchy, Loch Eck, Preston Cycle Track,
Lancaster Canal, N.Cornish Coast,

Worst short-cut: Caledonian Canal along the crazy paving. Near Fort Augustus

Best short-cut: Glen Orchy. Forced to go a long round due to road
closure this short cut was spectacular, steady even climb, and did not
waste the ascent with pointless decent.

Worst excuse for being tired. "I'm not tired, just fed up with my gears"

Best climb: Rannoch Moor

Worst climb: Grosmont (nr Monmouth), climbing away from Loch Ness up
toward Beauly. Portowan and Perranporth.. All horrible in their own
way, sometimes just because of their position in the way.

Best digs: Helmsdale or Inveraray.

Worst digs: Carlisle (by a long way) and Abergavenny, Ellesmere.

Longest mile: All the Cornish and Devon ones (like shares prices, the
distance mile marks in C & D went up and down). There is nothing more
dishertening than seeing a signpost telling you the place u r heading
too is now 2 miles further away then the previous one).

Biggest Lie: "follow me, the hotel is just round the corner" from
Mike_s at the end of the hardest day, when it was still 3 miles away.

Shortest mile: the last mile into John O'groats. And the 100m's we
went from a 20 mile break, where we found a cafe just round the next
corner and decided to stop again.

Funniest Moment: Mike_W falling off before we even started in front of
a very professional looking group of cyclists. Simon busting for a
pee being told he could have one at the top of the climb, but every
turn revealed another climb - after the 5th bend with another climb
Martin fell off laughing and Woody nearly joined him in the ditch.
Martin on the crazy paving, woody crashinto the hedge for the second
time in 20 mins. But in fairness there are so many contenders here.

Kite award: goes to Mike_W as the man with the most wind.

Best Quote: "oy Simon, where's the cash dispenser". On throwing a pear
core to the ground Dean's comment "an apple tree will grow there
now"..

Worst packing: Coco, forgetting his cycling shoes, not once but twice.

(At this point I apologise for the length of this, but its helping to
keep Woody awake as we drive south. Feel free to move on in your life
to more important things)

Biggest navigation mess up: going up the A6 on-ramp (think big 6 land
dual carriagway, crammed with massive trucks travelling at 70 mph). We
turned round at the top and went down again. Martin and Coco getting
separated and getting lost somewhere between Pontrilis and Ellesmere -
given a choise of 2 roads they went down the called "The Cul De Sac"

My turn to drive.
Bye. For now.

--
Sent from my mobile device

23:25 Back Into England, Wales Next

Woody driviing, heading south, heading home. Just past "historic
Carlisle". Mike_W, Mike_S and Dean have done their shifts at the
wheel..

All of us looking forward to getting home.

We did not take too well to Carlisle.

--
Sent from my mobile device

Injury Count

3 painful knees
1 very painful achilles that feels like popping bubble wrap.
1 grazed knee
Several sets of midge bites
Several blistered backsides
2 pairs of numb ulna nerves, 2 guys unable to use a knife and fork,
or up packets.

--
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The Cycling Team @ Dunsaonce Point

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:54:35 +0000
Subject: IMG00117-20100615-1349.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

The 3 Llanishen RFC Vets at John O'Groats

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:40:06 +0000
Subject: IMG00121-20100615-1423.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>,
Trigger <markdomtrigg@aol.com>

Llanishen Vets in John O'groates
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
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What's The Damage

1 spoke
A peddle (wasn't anything wrong with in the end)
Clicking bottom bracket
Couple of significant gear adjustments
Brake blocks all looking a bit tired.
1 unidentified squeak (a baring somewhere)
1 tyre
2 tubes

Not bad really.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #11 Helmsdale to John O'Groats

Arrived John O'Groats at about 13:15.

Mileage today: 53.5
Total time: 5:09
Time moving: 3:56
Avg speed: 13.6 mph
Avg speed ovrall: 10.4 mph
Ascent:3763 ft

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

At last we arrive!!

Well......
Weve done it, a long trek, but well worth it!!!
53 miles completed today, and i couldnt wait for that last mile!!
Anyway,, quick bite to eat, and make our way back to Cardiff, (by van
not cycling, just in case you were wondering?)
All for now, gotta go!!!

Woody!!!

--
Sent from my mobile device

John O'Groats

13:15 15th June

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:33:32 +0000
Subject: IMG00114-20100615-1308.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>,
Rachel <raywoodward@hotmail.co.uk>

Guess where we are?
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

My Vote For the Steely Determination Award

Tough call between Dean and Martin. Both have endured significant pain
in achilles and knee respectively.

Dean definitely gets the drug assisted award. You won't find many
Ibuprofen tablets between here and Preston.

--
Sent from my mobile device

My Vote For "Suspending Disbelief" Award

For this I nominate myself, for steering everyone up the A6 dual
carriageway onramp because "that's the way the GPS is pointing".
Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #11 - Final 55ish Miles

Tuesday 15th June 2010 07:25

Only 55 miles left to do today, but it is very hilly. Helmsdale to
John O'Groats.

Yesterday was the first day that most of us got on the saddles and we
were not wincing. So just when our backsides are just getting warn in,
we finish.

--
Sent from my mobile device

Twilight @ 23:15

The hotel at twilight at 23:30

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: martin37@mobileemail.vodafone.net
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:50:03 +0000
Subject: IMG00017-20100614-2248.jpg
To: llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com

Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device

--
Sent from my mobile device

Twilight @23:00

View of moutain by hotel at 23:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: martin37@mobileemail.vodafone.net
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:51:38 +0000
Subject: IMG00018-20100614-2250.jpg
To: llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com

Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device

--
Sent from my mobile device

Pre-Dinner Drinks

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 20:55:39 +0000
Subject: IMG00110-20100614-2016.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

All the team relaxing in style on the last night!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

The Whiskey Selection Behind The Bar

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 20:57:11 +0000
Subject: IMG00112-20100614-2018.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

A view of the bar!! Last night of lejog!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Dinner, Bridge Inn, Helmsdale

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:00:30 +0000
Subject: IMG00113-20100614-2042.jpg
To: "mdstephens97@yahoo.co.uk" <mdstephens97@yahoo.co.uk>,
"llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

The last supper!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #10 Numbers

Started @ 10:00
Finished 18:20
Distance: 92.8
Total time: 08:19
Time moving: 06:25
Avg speed moving: 14.4 mph
Avg speed overall: 11.2 mph
Ascent: 3848 ft

Fast day on the A9 mostly., fighting for space with the trucks. Big
climb up to Beauly from Loch Ness on much quieter roads - steep - but
soon rejoined A9. The hill felt like we were back in Cornwall.

Last day tomorrow - 55 miles to go, and some big climbs.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Martin falling off his bike in hotel car park

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:49:46 +0000
Subject: IMG00108-20100614-1814.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Guess who's fallen off his bike??
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Blasting Along The A9 Today

Not very pleasant, but pretty fast. Too many big trucks for my liking.
But aking great progress. 18 miles to go and its only 16:20.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

My Vote for the "Pointlessly Racing" Award

Tough call between Mike and Woody. But since Woody almosy always
starts it, I'll vote for him.

--
Sent from my mobile device

My Vote For Bike of the Tour

Goes to Mike's £250 bike from Halfords. Designed by a 1st year civil
engineering student, with welds the size of golf balls. My 4 year
old's bike has better components. But in fairness to it, it has been
faultless. You don't get much better value than that.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

First Sign Post To John O'Groats

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 13:18:31 +0000
Subject: IMG00107-20100614-1414.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>,
Rachel <raywoodward@hotmail.co.uk>

Not far to go now!!!!!! Day 10
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Bet Woody Wishes He Had A Good Set Of Wheels

Woody broke a spoke the other day. Went twang just before a long
downhill. That's problem with cheap wheels - get some good ones next
time Woody.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Drafter of The Tour

Mike gets my vote for best to draft behind. Steady consistent pace and
cuts a wide swathe through the wind. Would be nice if he called out
the pot holes every once in a while. But I think he enjoys hearing the
howls of pain behind him.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Don't Forget To Sponsor Us

Hope you are all enjoying our journey. We are. But don't forget to
sponsor us. Just email Mike @

Mike.williamson@bluefingroup.co.uk

Thanks to everyone's messages of support and the generous sponsorship
we've had so far.

The Team

--
Sent from my mobile device

Uruquart Castle on Loch Ness

This is the place spot Nessy. He hangs round he castle. We think we
spotted him, small head just breaking the surface 100m offshore.
Either that or it was a big duck.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Mon, 14 Jun 2010 09:56:27 +0000
Subject: IMG00106-20100614-1050.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Loch Ness with Urquhart Castle in the background
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #10 Invermorriston to Helmsdale

Only one significant climb today... I think.

Long section along Loch Ness then up north to Beauly, Dingwall,
Dornoch, along the A9 to Helmsdale.

Weather looks promising.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Smiles all the way

Whos the having the most hissy fits?
Well the early favourite was the one and only Martin but the tide is now turning
The strain of being in charge of the route is now starting to weigh
heavy on Simons not so broad shoulders. How many times have we herd
the words come on lets go start fading in the distance as we are still
getting on our bikes.

Still what a route today cycling through the mist to the tunes of a
lone pier on the mountain top to a decent for nearly three miles long
with speeds of up to forty miles an hour.
Futher on smiling and waving to about 400 cyclist going the other way
in a cycling event.

Need to go now and put some bite cream on the 40 odd bites on my legs.
What a day to remember

Coco

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day 9...

End of day 9, and only 2 days to go.
And cant wait!! The ends in sight!!

What views we saw today! They were magnificent!!!
Plenty of loch's and glens!!
The most memorable for me was seeing 2 stags in a field, one being
only about 50 yards away, only regret was them not staying around long
enough for a photo though!!!

During the last part of the ride today, simon decided to take a slight
detour along the caledonian canal into Fort Augustus, for about 3-4
miles!! However..... The canal path was very uneven and bumpy, and all
martin done for the whole 20 minutes was whinge and moan the whole
time about what a ridiculous decision simon made! (As he was being
bounced about everywere)
Very funny listening to martin moan and groan! Especially as he was
given the option to go that way or not, and is reply was' i dont mind,
i'm easy'.....
Yeah right!!

Well i'm off to bed now, blog you all tomorrow!!!

Woody!!!!!!!!

--
Sent from my mobile device

About To Enjoy A Well Earned Meal

Thought you might be bored with 3/4/5 guys in front of another
lake/loch/moutain/sign post.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sun, 13 Jun 2010 21:03:45 +0000
Subject: IMG00104-20100613-2033.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>,
Rachel <raywoodward@hotmail.co.uk>

See.. We dont just cycle!!!
Fort Augustus.
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #9 We Arrive At Loch Ness

Despite the late start, good roads (bar the last hour or so), little
wind (bar the last hour or so), we finshed early at about 18:15ish.

Distance: 93.3 miles
Total time: 08:35
Time moving: 06:47
Avg Speed: 13.7
Avg speed overall: 10.9
Ascent: 4429 ft

More later

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Loch Ness - Look Carefully and You'll See Nessy

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sun, 13 Jun 2010 17:11:24 +0000
Subject: IMG00101-20100613-1805.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>,
Rachel <raywoodward@hotmail.co.uk>

Loch Ness can you see Nessie?
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Loch Lochy

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sun, 13 Jun 2010 15:31:04 +0000
Subject: IMG00099-20100613-1625.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Loch lochy
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Top of Rannoch Moor

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:58:51 +0000
Subject: IMG00097-20100613-1153.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Rannoch moor summit
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Bridge Of Orchy

The short cut up Glen Orchy was a good call. Beautiful, traffic free,
steady climb.

Just as well since Goldilocks ate my porridge this morning. No prizes
for guessing who Goldilocks was.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #9 Late Start

9:40 start. Raining, cloudy.

Digs were great, but a bit too relaxed in getting breakfast on the
table., and we have to get back to Loch Awe to start.

Simon.

--
Sent from my mobile device

Interesting Day Ahead

Sunday 13th June 07:45

We stayed in Inveray last night on Loch Fyne, having cycled up to Loch Awe.

Back to Loch Awe this morning with a cycle up Glen Orchy, over. Ranoch
Moor and down Glen Coe to Fort William, Fort Augustus. And Loch Ness.

We'll Martin off to fine Nessy.

All in the rain.

Lots of climbing in prospect.

Looking forward to it.

For those of you not familiar with Glen Coe - it is stunning.

Bye foe now, off to have my porridge and local kippers for breakfast

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #7 Easy Peasy...and Spectacular

Oh contrair. Just what we needed today after yesterday. Still NW winds
right in our faces - but no where near as strong as yesterday.

Blue skies. Spectacular scenary. Good company. Fantastic day's cycling.

Total miles: 97.1
Total time: 09:35
Time Moving: 07:24
Avg speed: 13.1 mph
Avg speed overall: 10.1 mph
Ascent: 3897 ft

But tomorrow we have a big challenge. The road we were due to take
from Loch Awe to Oban has beeb closed due to a train crash. So we
have to do an additional 20 miles over Ranoch Moor and Glen Coe - so a
lot more climbing !!

We have spectacular digs tonight in a renovated church in Invereray.

More later...

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Martin's Quotes!!!

Picture the scene...
We are sat in a cafe, in remote Inverary, Scotland...
When martins asks simon..
'Oi simon any cash points around here'
You can imagine the response he got from all of us!!!!
Another classic from martin!!!!
I'm sure theres more to come!!

Woody!!!!

--
Sent from my mobile device

The Generous People of Prestwick

The landlady in the pub across the road from the B&B sponsored us
£20, the proprietor of the B&B gave us breakfast for free. The man on
the ferry gave us £4. And we did even ask. What nice people. Carlisle
was a different kettle of fish.

Wearing charity shirts gets you a lot of good will.

Lunch on the banks of Lock Eck.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Loch Eck

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2010 12:57:21 +0000
Subject: IMG00096-20100612-1348.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

The view of Loch Eck
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Gourcok tio Dunnoon ferry

Good morning - great road surfaces. Lots of head wind.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2010 11:54:47 +0000
Subject: IMG00095-20100612-1248.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

A trip on the Dunoon ferry from Gourock to Dunoon.. Day 8
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Mike the Mechanic

Woody's bike has a constant click. We think it is the bottom bracket.
Its like the Japanese Water Torture.

Mike's suggestion - turn it upside down and shake it. If that fails
hit it with a hammer.

It didn't work, but amusing to watch..

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Isle of Arran in Background

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sat, 12 Jun 2010 09:36:36 +0000
Subject: IMG00093-20100612-1031.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Isle of Arran.. Day 8
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Traffic lights?

What is it about traffic lights??
I thought its red for stop and green for go!!
But.. Martins sequences seem to be red for go and green for stop!
Very frigtening at times when behind him!!!!!

Woody!!!!

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day # 8 over the sea to...

Not Arran. But up the west coast to Gourock and over the Clyde by ferry.

Martin has gone colour blind - stopping at green lights and going on
red (he did the latter anyway).

8:55 start this morning. Loch Awe tonight.

--
Sent from my mobile device

You Have No Idea How Hard That Was !

Unquestionably our hardest day, by a long way. 4th day with headwinds.
And today it was full on, blowing a hooley.

We arrived at our 80 mile break point at about 17:45 absolutely on our
knees. With the prospect of of 25 miles to go, over more hills. Oh
joy.

The teamwork to get all 106 miles done today was fantastic. Great
drafting from everyone. Everyone took their fair share at the front.

At one point we were peddling hard downhill to make progress, at the
bottom a gust of wind stopped woody and mike in their tracks. Funny !!

At one point I was leaning the bike over as hard as I could to stay
upright in the cross wind.

The road surfaces were horrendous as well.. We are now experts on
different road surfaces. And score them out of 10. Chester, cumbria
and Dumfris & Galloway have the. Worst - bumpy. Wheels just can't roll
cleanly. We were seeking out the very edge, the white line, anything
that kept the wheels rolling. Horrible.

I have never seen Woody look so tired. Its amazing what a dose of the
runs and 106 hard miles can do to you.

Same again tomorrow...

If anyone ever tells you this is easy, don't believe them.

If I have the energy more later, or maybe in the morning ...

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Sensibility!!

Well.....
True to form, as .artin has allready quoted onluy 2 days ago.....
'Im aving 2 days of total sensibility'

Well today whilst making our way through heavy traffic, martin decided
to run a red light and nearly got hit by a 20 tonne truck!!

It beggars me still 'why only 2 days?'

Claire anyu thoughts?????

Woody!!!!!!!

--
Sent from my mobile device

Hard Morning Guys ?

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Fri, 11 Jun 2010 20:15:25 +0000
Subject: IMG00090-20100611-1457.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

The Calm before the Storm!! Day 7..
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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Castle near Penpoint - Our Picnic Lunch Spot

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Fri, 11 Jun 2010 20:16:46 +0000
Subject: IMG00091-20100611-1521.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

This is where we are staying....... NOT!!!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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We enter into Scotland.. Day 7!!!

Left Carlisle about 8.30am this morning, and just arrived in the digs
at Prestwick at 8.00pm!!
A very long day indeed.
Hardest day today by far for me, eadwind all day again!!
Never mind though, the weather lovelly!!
When we arrived at the duighs we are all a lovelly colour......BLUE!!!
Its been freezing all day!!
All for now as i am going for something to eat!!
Maybe more later??

Woody!!!

--
Sent from my mobile device

Team Enters Scotland

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:27:52 +0000
Subject: IMG00087-20100611-0922.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

We arrive in Scotland! Day 7
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Hardest Day Out I've Had In A While

The wind was incredirble. Relentless, almost all day, right in our
faces. All very tired. Finished about 19:50ish

Total dist: 106 miles
Total time: 11:45
Time moving: 09:10
Avg move: 11.6 mph
Avg speed: 9.0
Ascent: 4097 ft

More later... Need to eat.

--
Sent from my mobile device

Welcome to Scotland

11th june 09:25

We just arrived in Scotland. Woody and Mike (tweedle Dum and Tweedle
Dee) are popping over to the Marriage Rooms across the road.

simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Day #7 Carlisle - Prestwick

Over the boarder into Scotland.

Another 100ish miles.

0815 start. Earliest yet.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Will I ever get dexterity back in my hands ?

Is it Thursday today ? Than it must be Carlisle. 10th June.

We were all sat in an Italian restaurant tonight trying to figure out
what day it was. Spending 10 to 11 hours a day on a bike disconnects
you from what's going on in the world - like remembering what day it
is.

92 miles today., around 10:45 travelling. Quite a lot of ascent - just
not sure how much because the GPS choked today. The battery died for
some reason - being continually vibrated and bashed might have
contributed. Hopefully we'll get a clear day with it tomorrow.

Another day of headwind. However, thanks to Dean's attempts we got
some good drafting going today. Yes, even Martin.

Another excllent route up thru the Lakes - lancester - bowness -
windermere - grassmere - over lots of hills and down to Carlisle.

All having a really good time - I certainly am. And raising some
money for a good cause - don't forget to sponsor us.

Dean won king of the mountain again today - toping the biggest climb
out in front.

Woody and mike pulled their significant weght today - hurray.

We had to go shopping in Ambleside to get Woody new pwddles. The
barings had gone on his - a Japanese water torcher in terms of the
squeak

Bikes all holding up well - with 1 exception)

That's it for now.

Simon
.

--
Sent from my mobile device

Who's the Mecanic?

Dean is the most enthusiastic bike mechanic on the the tour
Trying to fix Martins gears replacing woodys brakes spraying
everything that moves with gt spray. However he made a slight error pf
judgement today.
Woody clip pedal developed a major fault that meant they had to be
replaced, in his excitement the pedal was put on pointing inwards so
woody would have to scoot the next 500miles

Lovely countryside canels
And a bacon sandwich cooked on a bbq in the car the smell was to die for

Todays (smoking rooms only) hotel the welcome was the best ever thats
if you like being burnt by dragons breath. Being the larget cyclist
guess who has the box room?

Coco

--
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The Lakes

Just out of Bowness - top of another hill.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:43:39 +0000
Subject: IMG00084-20100610-1337.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Lake windemere!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
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--
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Half way!!!

Yet again we set off this morning and straight into a head wind AGAIN!!!!
Fantastic scenery again, especially through the Lake District, so well
done to simon again for his route planning!
Once again i took a little tumble in Lancaster! Which i.m blaming Mike
for...(Even though he was nowhere near me)
Also my first time going over an aquaduct!! (See the photo)...
Nice to see i,m not the only one to have a run in with bushes!!
Ask simon where he was heading when he decided to do a bit of off roading!!
And i think simon was taking a leaf out of martins book today.... When
he nearly got wiped out by a carn cos he was riding on the wrong side
of the road!! (Lets see if he owns up to that one on his blog??)

92 miles completed today!
Arrived in Carlisle at about 7ish!
Landlady very pleased to see us....... (NOT!!!!!)

Enough for now!!

Woody!!!!!!

--
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The Boys In The Peloton, and Martin...

Here' s a lesson in how to draft as a team, and how not ...

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:33:48 +0000
Subject: IMG00081-20100610-0928.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

The group drafting!!,
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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Martin's Idea of "Drafting"

Near Preston

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:36:06 +0000
Subject: IMG00080-20100610-0927.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Martin's attempt at drafting!!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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Preston Canal

We followed it for a long way - bumpy

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:59:42 +0000
Subject: IMG00082-20100610-0954.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Barge going over the aquaduct at lancaster!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Start of Day #6 at "Crossroads Motel"

Lake District today

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2010 07:45:14 +0000
Subject: IMG00079-20100610-0832.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Off to Carlisle... Start of day 6!!!!!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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So Much for the Prevailing Winds

Rough route : Ellesmere - Runcorn - Widnes - Warrington - Preston - Garstang.

2 days into a headwind - and today it was full on. Lands End to John
O'Groats is supposed to benefit from the SW prevailing winds. No sign
here. All NW. So bad I nearly got blown off my bike - it literally
stopped me dead. Great support from the boys from behind me - moaning
about lack of pace.

Martin sat at the back today, all day. To be honest we were all happy
with that. Mike finally pulled his weight. Woody became a psycho,
capable only of full on sprint or cruising behind Mike. So Woody earns
the green jersey today. Dean had the day off riding (sore backside)
and worked with martin's brother Mike keeping us moving and fuelled.

Woody fell off his bike, caused by Mike dithering (apparently - I was
out in front as usual, so missed it).

Mike W got letters from his kids at hotel - how nice is that.

Very mixed scenery today. From rural to urban and old industral.
Really enjoyed the St Helens canal (especiqlly since Woody took the
lead finally). And really into Rugby Leage country (pass by Widnes,
Wigan, St Helens)

Left knee hurting, backside sore (I'll spare you the details of what is sore).

The jet wash of the bikes was an inspired idea - they were hanging.

Cheshire is dead posh, but the worst road surfaces on the back roads.
We are now experts on different road surfaces - what rolls smoothly,
what bouces around and is hard work.

There are several on a drug assisted rides - mostly Ibuprofen, with
the odd paracetomol.

Sorry - can't type anymore because Terry (more later) wants his phone
back (no signal on mine)

Simon

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Feeding time at the zoo!!

Gee whizz......
I've never seen anyone eat like or as much as Martin!
He ought to be about 20 stone and playing prop and not on the wing!!
Its like watching an animal eating at the zoo!!!!
He says he,s carbin up!
I say he's still in a race!

Woody!!!!!!

--
Sent from my mobile device

Typical of Our Route

We've kept clear of the main roads.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2010 10:58:36 +0000
Subject: IMG00071-20100609-1104.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Two numty's lost!!!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
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Cleaning the bikes

The shirts earn a lot of good will - another freeby, and a donathin of
£5 from a customer of this car cleaning team.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2010 11:22:03 +0000
Subject: IMG00074-20100609-1200.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Woody washing woody's bike!!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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Runcorn Bridge

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2010 12:05:36 +0000
Subject: IMG00076-20100609-1301.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Grandad on Runcorn Bridge!!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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The Pretty Spot in Preston

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2010 18:07:29 +0000
Subject: IMG00078-20100609-1719.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Grandad in Preston!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
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Setting the record straight

After the accusations recently that i have been hiding at the back.

I proved my point having passed simon going down a nice long hill
simon and woody turned right without telling me. Martin then took down
a block end before gettiing back on route.

Great interesting ride today runcorn bridge,manchester ship canal but
what a wind(including woody).

What a difference in hotels from a damp 3m square smelly
room(including Woodys wind) to a nice spacious room (including Woodys
wind)
Can you see a trend here?

Coco

--
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Pretty Spot in Preston

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2010 18:10:07 +0000
Subject: IMG00077-20100609-1719.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

The three wise monkeys in Preston!!!!!
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
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Day5! Garstang

Well... I cant believe it!!!!!!
Martin actually rode correctly today!! No one can believe it!!!
Right side of the road and stayd in the group ALL DAY!!
Obviously somethings sinking in?

Hard day cycling today due to a constant headwind all day, and notched
up another 98 miles, so... maybe thats why martin stayed in the group
at the back??

Quote again from Martin today, when asked which way he thinks we
should go? He replied
'I,m not saying nothing, i,m having 2 days of sensibility'
Why only 2 days no one knows?
Anyway thats me for now!
Because Mike wants to use my phone to put his blog on!

Woody!!!!!!

--
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I think its this way

Crossing Runcorn Bridge

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2010 18:13:44 +0000
Subject: IMG00075-20100609-1301.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

'I think its this way boys'
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
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Wed 9th Vital Stats

Total distance; 98.6
Total time: 11:08
Time moving: 08:05
Avg speed Moving: 12.2
Avg speed overall: 8.8
Max speed: 41.8 (and it was a goody)
Total ascent: 4911 ft

Finished @ 18:50

Head wind all the way.

Hard work today

More later..
Simon

--
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08:30 Start

Wednesday 9th 0825

Raining a little. Forecast cloudy all day - more rain later.

Nightmare navigation ahead thru Runcorn, across Runcorn Bridges and
then a long trip beside St Helens Canal to Warrington and onto to
Garstang.

Sorry about typos in last nights blog - tired. "Helping" was supposed
to be "helmet" - obviously.

On we go

--
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Simon and Martin entering God's Country On Monday

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2010 21:38:31 +0000
Subject: IMG00069-20100607-1638.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Martin/simon
Entering Gods country
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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Entering God's country on Monday

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2010 21:42:19 +0000
Subject: IMG00070-20100607-1639.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Woody/mike
Entering Gods country
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Of Freeloaders and Hard Workers

Day #4: Tuesday 8th June., 22:30

Another really enyoable dau, even the last 23 miles. Yesterday ended
with 12 up hill from Monmouth to Pontrilas, in the cold and the rain
- and trust me there was a lot of steep up. As the cyclists among you
will know, when it starts raining your helping becomes a liquid salt
dispenser, depositing years of accumulated sweat into your eyesm. So I
finished last night blinded in one eye.

Today ended with Woody, Mike and myself cruising thru the leafy
Cheshire lanes listening to Dean Martin and Madness on Woody's
Blackberry. Though I could havee done without Woody and. Mike's
rendition of That's Amore - with much ringing of the bells on the
bikes at appropriate moments.

Dean had retired at this stage and Martin had done what Martin does
best - disappeared into the wild blue yonder.

So back to the title of this post.

This will come as a shock to many of you, but it is the view of Dean,
martin and myself that Woody and Mike are freeloaders. Dean despite
his injury has put in many hours at the front, martin has put many
hours in rediculously far out in front to render him useless for
drafting (look it up if you are not sure what I am talking about) -
but none the less working hard.

Woody and Mike on the other hand have spent 3.5 days at the back
getting a free ride. Everytime one of them end up in front breaking
wind (in every sense of the term) within 2 mins they have a little bit
of cramp, or an itch they need to address.

Finally today after much abuse from the 3 of us they put in a little
time at the front. Naturally they went rediculosly fast, breaking the
"peloton"(that's the 3 of us) up. But at least they were making an
effort for the hard workers Dean, .Martin and myself.

Woody crashed into a hedge twice today, for no obvious reason at all.
No one and nothing anywhere near him. Over tired - think.

Dean gets "king of the moutain" today, toping out several hills in the
lead (woody and mike in tow).

The day started late at 10:00 because Martin had to go to the bike
shop again to get his gears working again. Bought a new tyre but
Martin refused to fit it. Oh quelle surprise, he had a nother puncture
thru 1 of the 5 holes it now has. Enough said on that one, I might
start ranting.

Lunch was sandwiches from Tescos at the saw mill at Bucknell - very
interesting place.

We arrived at the Red Lion in Eellesmere at 1950, tired and hungyry

That's it f0r nw - too tired.
Simon

--
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Day 4!!!

Well.... Compliments to simon for arranging a fantastic route today!
Many long straights, very few hills (for a change) and superb views!!
Only downside to taking these side roads is that they are covered in
stuff that comes from cows (and not milk)!!!
So guess where all that ended up?
But... Suppose you cant have everything!!
Oh! And we still have a problem with martin about which side of the
road we drive on in this country, i know we are in England but i,m
sure they drive on the same side as us in Wales?
If anyone has any ideas how we can through to him, please reply to this!!!
Thats all for now!

Woody!!!!

--
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Lunch stop on Monday

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2010 18:51:35 +0000
Subject: IMG00068-20100607-1452.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
Sent from my mobile device

Tuesday's numbers

Stats:

Have to rush, pub stops server food in 5 mins.

99.9 miles
Total time: 9:45
Ascent: 5009 ft
Avg speed moving: 13 mph
Avg speed overal 10.2 mph

Easy day today.

Garstang tomorrow.

More later about Woody's trip into the hedge.

Simon

--
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Midday Update

Tuesday 8th 14:00

Lovely morning, cool, no rain. Cruising with some rolling hills and
the odd steep one. But herefordshire and shropshire are very pretty.
Some gorgeous villages.

Bit of a problem with the GPS attachment point not biting. Had to
carry it in my hand for a while until we had a break. Much to my
relief, for the time being it is place and steady.

This cycling GPS is superb. Definitely open to some improvements, but
this trip would have been much harder without it.

Couple of minor navigation blunders this morning, but rarely more than 50m.

Woody and Mike doing their usual trick of drafting everyone and doing
the minimum amount of work until the know they are near the end, then
they sprint off.

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Some thank you's are in order

Thanks to Andy for supporting over previous 2 days - much appreciated,
and for his generous sponsorship.

Thanks to Mike S (martin's brother) for taking over.

And thanks to Jo, Libby and Abbi for turning out in Chepstow in the
rain to cheer us on (even though the guys though you a bit strange
since they had no idea who you were).

Late start this morning - martins bike in the garage again.

Ellesmere today. 100 miles more or less.

Simon

--
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When the Cat's Away...

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Mingay,Simon" <Simon.Mingay@gartner.com>
Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2010 06:44:27 +0100
Subject: When the Cat's Away...
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

A photo from the Club Ball that we all missed. Thanks for making sure
thw wives enjoy themselves Tony.

Sent from handheld.

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Fact!

After cycling with Martin today, i have come to realise that there are
2 lefts!!!
Our left and Martins left, Which is actually on HIS right!!!!!!

Woody!!!

--
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A Day Of Ten Elevenths

Monday 7th 23:30

Today' route Wellinton - Taunton - Cheddar - Winscombe - Yatton -
clevedon - Clapton on Gordano (great lunch, thanks for the
recommendation Joe) - Portbury - Cribbs Causeway - Aust - old Severn
Bridge - Chepstow - Tintern - Monmouth - Pontrilas

Easy day for the first 98 miles. Gorgeous ride thru the Somerset
country lanes. A few "hills" but compared to day #1 and #2 - barely
registered. Only incident of note being Woody knocking 3 of us over in
one go, just because a combined harvester (1.5x width of road) came
trundling round the corner and he panicked. Obvious thing to do really
when a 10 tonne bit of farming equipment is heading toward you -
spread yourselves and your bikes on the road immediately in front if
it.

Someone's gears broke and someone had a puncture. Involved 2 trips to
2 different bike shops to repair the gears and buy a new tyre. So
today's competition is - who was this person (s)

Despite these incidents we managed to do 98 miles in relative style
and ease. Mike (Coco) was on fire - shouting encouragement from the
rear (note the position - he hangs back and drafts anyone stupid
enough to sit in front - though oddly he never goes anywhere near
Martin).

When we got to Monmouth Dean was getting the coffees in (having taken
a brake from peddling due to achilles problem). Quick coffee, then
quickly on to polish off the last 12 miles.

The last 11th was challenging, enjoyable in it's own "special" way.
Long, steep hills which just appeared from nowhere around the corner.

Got to the b&b very late, wet, cold, tiered, hungry.

Regards

Simon

Quiz entries to llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com

--
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The answer to yesterday's Quiz

The answer is.....

Martin

I mistyped the email address for entries, which should have seen
llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com (all future entries here please)

So given the wrong entry instructions, u r all winners.

But from the entries we actually received, the winners are :-

George, oscar, dylan, karen, ray, john, kate, oishan, alison and hywel.

Congratulations, the bragging rights are in the post.

There were no incorrect entries. Draw your own conclusions.

Simon

--
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It Ain't Over Till The Larger than Average Man Begs For Mercy

Long day today. Finished about 19:50

Stats

Distance: 110 miles
Total time: 11:06
Time moving: 8:29
Avg speed; 13 mph
Avg speed: 10 mph
Max speed: 50 mph

Ascent: 6236

Rained as soon as we arrived in Wales.

The last 12 miles from Monmouth to Pontrilas was cruel at the end of
day. The rest of it was a breeze.

More later...

Simon

--
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Day 3!!

Very enjoyable ride today,
110 miles today!!!!
A long day in the saddle, and typical.... Soon as we get into wales
the rain starts, so here we are in the b&b wet and very cold!!
So enough said for now!!!!

Woody!!!!!!

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Cruising Through Somerset, Near Cheddar

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2010 11:31:15 +0000
Subject: IMG00054-20100607-0949.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

--
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Day 3

Monday 7th, 08:45

Bit of maintenance and bag repacking today. Rain forecast.

Off at 08:45
Simon

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Sean "I'm too tired to drink a pint" Woodward

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: martin37@mobileemail.vodafone.net
Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2010 20:41:42 +0000
Subject: IMG00005-20100606-2140.jpg
To: llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com

Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device

--
Sent from my mobile device

What, no ranting. Must have been to easy...

Sunday 6th 22:30

Despite Martin's complaints yesterday, and my generous offer to let
him plan today's route, we used my route again today. And it was
great. What's more no complaints....

Yesterday was all about steep hills, with even steeper bits in the
middle. And then an impossible bit at the top. But great views and no
traffic.

Today was more rolling. Longer but more gentle hills. Even if there
were lots of them, it was still easier.

Martin is suffering from knee problems.

Someone has reverted to drinking halfs because "I'm too tired".

My right arm and hand are numb - Andy tells me it is my ulna (no idea
about spelling - sorry) nerve. Very wierd - I can't use a knife and
fork.

0730 breakfast again tomorrow - on the road by 0830. Long day... Another one.

Tomorrow Martin's repeatedly demanded request shall be granted, "just
go north". I repeatedly tried to explain that a route directly north
from Land's End would involve swimming, but sadly it fell on deaf
ears. But tomorrow north it is. Wellington to Pontrillas - about 105
miles.

An interesting question for you ? Mike always bottoms out of the hills
the fastest. Now is that because his "quality" Halfords bike has the
latest ceramic bearings. Or is it because he carries the greatest
weight upon his substantial frame ? Martin always seems to bottom out
2nd fastest, but claims to be a modest 13st (which would put him 4th
in the official weight rankings). Hmmm ? Naturally as grandpa in the
group I am above such speculation.

Another fun packed day tomorrow.

Regards

Simon

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Guess Who ? Competition

We would like to launch a comptition. The prize is bragging rights.

The question: Who got beeped by a passing motorist today and received
some verbal instructions that were brief and to the point, to move
over ?

Answers should be sent to llanishen.lejog@gmail.com

The correct answer will be posted on the blog tommow. Along with the
names of the winning entries.

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The team @ St Ives, Day # 1

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sean Woodward <srgscaffolding@hotmail.co.uk>
Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2010 18:48:35 +0000
Subject: IMG00040-20100605-1155.jpg
To: "llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com" <llanishenrfc.lejog@gmail.com>

St Ives, Cornwall. Day 1
Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

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Day 2 over!!

Well......... Thats day 2 over!!
A lot easier, well!!! A lot less hills.
Great day cycling, mist and rain this morning to glorious sunshine
this afternoon..
Nice to see martin actually paceing himself for once throughout the
ride!! And not one daft quote off him all day!!
All we got to do now is try to get him to ride on the right side of the road!!
Thats all for now as i am very very tired!!
(Only another 9 days to go though)

Woody!!!!!!

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Great day, a breeze compared to yesterday

Sunday 6th 17:30

Finsihed at 17:10.

The stats :-

81.4 miles
Elapsed time: 8:35
Time moving: 06:29
Avg speed moving; 12.5 mph
Avg speed overall: 9.2
Max speed 37.6
Ascent: 5869 ft

Everyone has enjoyed today.

More later...

Regards

Simion

--
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Day 2...

Sunday 6th 08:20

My brother is here as driver. Its. 0820, we close to be ready to go.
No shopping trips this morning.

Enormous breakfast.

Windy, grey, cloud right down, cool. Waterproofs on.

84 miles to go.

Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

The First Day Is The Hardest

Saturday 5th, 22:30

A day of 2 halves. Before lunch it was hilly, but all short and sharp.
As per Woody's comments, Martin tempted fate which then brought a
terrible revenge down upon us. The hills became long, sharp, with some
horribly steep bits in the middle of the already very steep bits.
Total respect to the Tour de France riders.

Martin had a rant on every hill. I came in for some serious stick for
the route - prettyness and safety over speed and directness. Gorgeous
roads, great views, not much traffic. No navigation blunders. And I
get complaints about a few little hills.

So tomorrow Martin is in charge of the route - which apparently is
"north". So if u hear about any accidents on the M5 caused by slow
moving cyclists, you'll know who it was.

However we got to the end in a respectable time, a bit later than
hoped due to the shopping trip for shoes (did we mention that).

In tomorrow's blog we will discuss the concept of "awareness", and
decide who has it and who is challenged in 1 or more of the several
categories of awareness.

Woody is sunburnt. Martin is a little grumpy (nothing a couple of
beers and a good nights sleep won't cure I amsure), Mike is pretty
happy, Dean has a sore backside.

Great news is my brother has arrived to drive for a few days.

Heading for Wellington via Okehampton tomoorow.

Meanwhile we are all filled with curry and eager to go to sleep. And
looking forward to a less hilly day tomorrow.

Good night all.
Simon

--
Sent from my mobile device

At last.. Day 1 over!

Well finally sat in the b&b drinking a cup of tea!!!!
Tired and very hungry..
Started off this morning at lands end and stopped at portreath for a
nice spot of lunch when martin came up with the quote of century!

'Im a bit disappointed with cornwall, i thought it would be more hilly'

Boy did that bite us all on the rear!!
Hills all the way to camelford!!
I hope he starts to keep his thoughts to himself??

Woody!!!!

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Sent from my mobile device

Today's Stats

83.3 miles
Total time: 9:44
Time moving: 7:14
Ascent: 6755 ft
Avg speed moving: 11.5 mph

Tired, hungry, thirsty. More later...

--
Sent from my mobile device

Ready, Set...

We are at the start

Odometer readings at the start:
Simon: 1762.5 km
Woody: 817 miles
Walking to the start line now.

Probably a 10:00 start. Only 90 late.

Simon

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Shopping for Shoes in Penzence

Saturday 5th, 09:15

Expect the unexpected - well I confess I was not expecting to start
the End to End odysey with a shpping trip for shoes.

After drivng round Penzance centre 3 times we found the bikes shop
down an alley. So Coco is now the proud owner of some shiny new shoes.
And we are finally heading to Lands End in the van at 09::15

Martin is a bottle of pop. Dean is going to slip a sedative into his
water bottle.

While in the bike shop we met some other folks doing th E2E on an
extendable tandem. They can add sections to make it a quad. See
picture on their website; www.e2e2010.office-electrics.com

Regards

Simon

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What, No Cycling Shoes ?

Coco has forgotten his cycling shoes. What to do ? He is size 12, does
he try and squeeze into my spare size 7 shoes, does he fit the spare
non-SPD peddles we have in the spares kit (now, how impressed are you
that we have spare pedals), or does he go buy new shoes from the local
bike shop in the morning ? Decisions, decisions.

6 hrs in, and crisis number 2. Oh dear. However we are having a very
good laugh at Coco's expense..

So we have concluded. He has to go to the shop in the morning and buy
some new shoes. So the 0630 start is out the window..

The penny dropped as the bags came out the van. You should have seen
Coco's face - a picture.

However, all for one, and one for all, we will wait while he goes
shopping for a matching set of shoes.

Oh how we laughed.

Regards

Simon

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Start As You Mean To Go On

Great start. We all turned up at Dean's house, all raring to go. We've
got the van, but no driver. The very nice man who volunteered to drive
the van and support us rather inconveniently went and got a job
starting Monday.

So, we are now going into serious favour debt trying to get family and
friends to do a few days in shifts. Meanwhile Dean is going to drive.

But I can fit my toothbrush, and credit card in my pania, so I figure
we can do it without support. Martin might need to hire a trailer for
all his stuff - bet never mind.

We remain optimistic and are making great progress down the M5 to
Penzance, where we are staying in the YHA tonight.

Turns out at 49 I am the least qualified to stay in a YHA. So I am
Grandpa. Mike is the next at 46. Martin is the middle child - they
always say the middle one is the awkward one. Woody is the baby at 44.
Except for Dean who claims to be 25 - he must have had a hard
childhood.

Your intrepid reporter will endeavour to eek out more little gems for
those interested.

Regards

Simon

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Last Training Ride With The Family

Did my last training ride on the weekend with Karen and the boys. Down to Cardiff Bay via some bizarre route through Whitchurch that Karen constived. And then back via Heath Park and the kids railway there. And very excitingly this was the first real trip out for the tandem. George (4) was my turbo charger on the back. Apart from getting his foot jammed in the cogs and chain it all went very well.

It was also Karen's first trip out on her new "lush" bike as well. Fortunately she liked it a lot.

Dylan was on his own bike (poor Dylan, it's Oscar's hand-me-down), but with new chain, cassette, brakes etc. He managed to get up all of the hills, bar one, on his own.

And Oscar was on his super new racer.

All this in preparation for our family Coast To Coast trip in the summer on the bikes. It's beginning to feel like the cycling equivalent of family Von Trapp.

Weather was great. So if every day on the trip up to John O'Groats is as good as that, I'll be a happy camper.

Regards
Simon

One Bike, One Tooth Brush, One Credit Card - All Set

Looks like the route over the Isle of Arran may not be possible because the ferry times don't work out very well for us. So we'll have to go up the west coast via Largs and Gourock, then over Dunoon and up to Inveraray.

Weather for the first 4 days look OK.

I'm going to using the rather whizzy cycling GPS for navigation. So I have spent many late evenings over the last 2 weeks planning the route. When I gave a try the other week I think it was more hassle than it was worth at the time. But that's when we knew where we were going mostly. I am hopnig it works better for us in the middle of nowhere. Should be fine in Scotland - not many roads to choose from. Not looking forward to Runcorn - navigating thru there looks horrible. So if you are watching our progress on the map and we seem to be going round in circles you'll know why.

However my faith in the technology does not stretch to not taking a map as well.

Not much packing, I'm going to be travelling light - 1 set of cycling stuff, one tee shirt, one pair of pants, a tooth brush, sun tan cream and a credit card. Do you think that will be enough. I'm sure the guys will be prepared to put up with the smell -just stay upwind. I think I had better take a tube of travel wash as well. Sounds like Martin is taking the kitchen sink.

Regards
Simon

Nothing Worse Than Wet Pants

Sunday 30th 14:20

Having been out on the bike yesterday in the wind and rain, I thought
I'd check the forecast. At the moment, the first few days are looking
promising.

That should make it a bit more pleasant, because while there are worse
things in life than cold wet pants, it still rates as unplesant.

I now have 27 working gears again, and mostly working brakes.

6 days to go. Please don't forget to sponsor us.

Simon

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If It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It

[Friday 07:00 am - the time stamp above is the time in California, very useful don't you think ;-)]

We've all been busy on bike maintenance, which in my case seems to have been a big mistake.

So we've all fitted new tyres - except Martin, his super thin, slick tyres on which he has done all his training rides (admittedly not much), are perfect for the task apparently. Woody is also sticking with a replacement pair of his slicks - braver man than me.

I decided new brake blocks were required. I eventually get some moreorless appropriate blocks, and my brother comes over to help out. You know how it is when you start a job it seems so simple and then it just gets progressively more complicated and messy, with an increasing number of trips to the DIY /hardware shop... well that was yesterday and the DIY shop was Wiggle. Anyway, a complete new set of brakes are on their way to me.

The new chain and rear cassette look lovely and shiny. Only one small problem, I used to have 27 gears, now I have about 4. But hey, who needs all that choice.

The new gloves are working just fine though, even if my old gloves, to whom I had become quite attached, are looking rather sad and dejected in a pile I put things in just before they go in the bin (such a pile is useful in case I change my mind at the last minute).

Still, plenty of time to get it all working. And if necessary I'll just take all the bits my bike is in down to the bike shop and ask them to wave their magic wand and make it all worka again. However, I feel confident they'll then tell me I need a new headset, bottom bracket, hubs.... I find ignorance is bliss.

Regards

Simon

Booking Accomodation - The Only Places With Vacancies Are Pubs

We have been debating whether to book accomodation ahead of the trip, or whether to see where we are on the day and then try and find somewhere. So I think we are generally favouring booking ahead.

But do you know what, it seems like only Pubs have accomodation available at this late stage. Ah well, I guess that will just have to do. So for those of you tracking our progress on the map over on the right of this window, when you see us in the pub at 2am, I promise you we'll be in bed (well, I will be for sure).

Since the long ride on Sunday I have put in more hill runs - up onto The Griag - in a vain attempt to got more ummph in my legs.

9 days and counting.

Simon

We enter new territory

Today we did our first 100 mile training ride. And even Martin kept
up, even on the hills.

Thornhill - Ystrad Mynach - Maesycummer - Newbridge - Crumlin -
Pontypool - Usk (big hill) - Raglan (oops) - Monmouth - Tintern -
Chepstow - over Severn Bridge and back (why ? Because it was there) -
Caldicot - Magor - Coast rd (Nash etc) - Newport - Coast Rd
(Marshfield etc) - St Mellons - Lisvane - The Griffin.

96.9 miles
Elapsed time: 9hrs
Time moving: 7:14
Height gain: 9071 ft.
Avg speed: 13.4 mph

Gorgeous day. And I can confirm it is not downhill from Tintern to
Chepstow - quite the opposit

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