London and Paris 2010 - a tale of two challenges! by Chect

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."  Mark Twain

Good Advice from Mr Twain there!  I heeded those words this weekend, determined to get more in tune with this cycling challenge, I decided on a different approach.  I needed to do something significantly energizing, dramatic and enduring; I knew I had leave my comfort zone and throw caution to the wind and be brave.  So I set myself the challenge of cycling from Hackney to Cambridge.  A far cry from my previous 30 mile jaunts. 

Taking matters into my own hands I bought a map holder, 3 maps and plotted out the route on the old internet well in advance (like a good girl guide – also reiterated by the 6P philosophy of “Poor Preparation Produces P’ss Poor Performance!!” passed on by a fellow L2Per!!). 

There was just the small matter of a long run the day before but when you’ve only got 2 day weekends you’ve got to make do.  So I did.  My social life is already under intense scrutiny by my friends (Cries of “why are you not drinking?” or “What? Not out on a Friday night?” Were either ignored or side stepped!).  My body was craving sleep and water.  So what the heck

And so it was that on Sunday I got up at 7.30am and made my way out of Hackney to follow the National Cycle Network to Waltham Abbey where I would pick up the London to Cambridge route.  I got to WA and spotted the wonderous sights of, no not Waltham Abbey but the other longed for vision.. the Golden Arches of Macdonalds!!  Fueling up on Hot Choc and a rather large chocolate muffin I set off to complete the remaining 50miles!

I will cut a long story short.  I had probably the most challenging day of my training so far.  Getting lost en route, taking surprising and unexpected detour to Harlow (still incidentally the Birthplace of Optical Fibre Communications! – they must be very proud of that fact).  I made it back to my route thanks to a lovely fellow who kept me company for 6 or so miles.  It really did lift my spirits so thank you Richard if you are reading this.  Then after another stop over feast I spurted on to Clavering against the strongest of headwinds (I even had to pedal down hill! What’s all that about?!).  Other highlights were stopping off for a cup of tea (can you spot a theme here?) in the best ever pub in Englandshire – unbeknownst to me I stopped in the Cricketers and was extremely confused to find a pub selling signed Jamie Oliver books – incredible until I realized it was his folks’ pub!  And very nice it was too.  I must head back for a very yummy looking sticky toffee pudding…

Ok so you get the picture it was a long day but made enjoyable by the countryside, the fresh air and the people.  Life is good I thought. I did struggle but I thoughts of you guys, my friends and family kept me going.  As did some singing (well nobody else was around to hear me thankfully!) and of course the frequent food treat!

So I now have some further top tips for you based on this exercise:

Tip: The 4Ts

Teaming up – Richard explained the need to practice “Slip streaming”  Interesting concept which I’m sure experienced cyclists already know and do.  I was petrified of cycling too close and knocking Richard off his bike.  It should be worth it though and save 20% of your energy if you get it right.  Take turns to cycle in front and your buddies tuck in behind you cycling more easily.

Tyre pressure – make sure your tyres are pumped up fully.  It can make all the difference in speed and comfort too.

Tee shirt wearing – this is a really big incentive and not just for you.  If passers by or fellow cyclists spot you, it may lead to a bit of a chat (see next tip) and or sponsorship or just increased awareness. It all helps to keep you motivated so runners and cyclists get those CHECT shirts on.

Talking – I know I can be a chatterbox but I do believe that life is all about stories – whether that is sharing yours or hearing other peoples.  Great things can happen when you connect with other people.  Tell everyone about your adventure and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.  I probably scared the living daylights out of my Guardian Angel near High Wych but (as Mark Twain rightly says) I would have regretted NOT speaking to my fellow cyclist on this occasion.

Happy training folks