In the land of the midnight sun.....

Work has taken me oop north - so far north I'm just about as far as you can go in mainland UK.

I drove up this morning passing many of the sights we passed on our last epic trip form Lands End to John O Groats non stop. The last outing was in September and rightfully has a blog of it's own. Six of us took on the challenge to cycle non stop from Lands End to JoG. The team included wingman, the fit one, duracell, Junior down from Aberdeenshire, another friend from Dunfermline and of course the bigman.

We were split into 2's and rode 4 hours on at a time. It was a cracking trip completed in 62 hours. The odd thing was today's drive brought back a load of great memories. I remembered the exact spot the bigman got the first and only puncture of the trip and the memorable climb up Berrydale Braes, the last really big one of the journey. It was a fab time (except for the sleep deprivation and mixed food!).

On arrival it was straight into a meeting which lasted 6 hours - I felt remarkably fresh and decided to go out for a wee run. A mini heatwave has hit Thurso and at 7pm when I went out running the temperature was still over 20 deg. I plodded out of town and headed up the hill. I felt good running, as I've mentioned it probably is my first love and the miles passed easily.

The run in itself was unremarkable other than the stunning beauty and joy that you get running in isolation on roads where no cars seem to exist. It was fab.

Tomorrow's another full day but if I get a chance I might run again - I brought plenty of kit!

So I lie in on my bed watching the sun slip down out of the window - I've always wanted to come this far north at this time of the year. It's been worth it!

PS It's dark at Wimbledon!

Spinning on the inside.....

Another dreich day in Fife. As the rest of the UK basks in the heatwave we Fifers befitted from a cool easterly. Great for training, apart from the wind but not the scorcher that everyone else is having.

After a day running around I thought I'd take the opportunity to try out the spin bike. So I plugged in the iPod into the speakers and took on the sufferfest Climbing set - it's a fantastic workout. When I was training for IMNZ I would go to Bannatynes, who kindly let me use their spin bikes, and spin for sometimes up to 4 hours at a time. If you can imagine the torture of spinning for 4 hours it certainly built up the resolve for the 6 hour plus bike that is the middle part of the ironman triathlon.

The sufferfest works on a warm up, sprint set, tempo, then 2 big climbs, another sprint, tempo and then cool down. It's broken up with fab music that keeps you pumping along pushing a big resistance up the hills. I think that spinning is excellent for building strength.

So I thrashed away for an hour and then jumped on the treadmill for 15 minutes to cool down.

I got some information through this week about nutrition and it's the area I always let myself down.....I enjoy my food far too much and have a particularly sweet tooth so if I wasn't training as much I'd be back at 17 stone!

Mad dogs and english eh well scots men......

It was a cool, damp, dank day in Fife when the Fit One rolled into Carnock. The plan was to reverse the route we did last weekend because of a stiff easterly but as we travelled the plan changed - plans are meant to change and be flexible.

The Fit One has a new set of wheels. A Felt black assassin - deadly uphill and silent as night (compared to the grumbling Scott of a few weeks ago!) For the price he paid it seems pretty good value with a compact chainset on the front, decent gear changers and wheels.

I, on the other hand, was pretty dishevelled (edited for another heinous spelling mistake picked up by moonwalker!) with no matching kit and wearing tri shorts because all of my shorts are in the wash!

We breezed down the hill to Cairneyhill, through to Newmills and then took the first change in route to add the climb up to Upper Valleyfield. We then had the benefit of the downhill into Culross. Culross was busy with tourists but we didn't really notice because being pushed by the wind we were moving at pace.

Just as we were going through Culross a brown dog, unattached to a lead or owner decided to cross the road regardless of 2 bikes moving at pace towards him. He stuck his nose out into the road and it was almost removed! Fortunately, he stopped just in time and a mild swerve took us past him.

The climb up to Clackmannan was easier with the wind behind and we were admiring the Fit One's bike so much we almost crashed into the back a of blue car parked on the road. That wouldn't have been a first for the Fit One who was once pedalling through Torryburn with the Bigman when a parked car got in his way and next thing he was enjoying the comfort of the back seat - albeit in the midst of shattered glass! Fortunately on this occasion we avoided a similar outcome.

We took the road up to Forestmill and then the Fit One urged a second change of direction to take on the Col De Carnock instead of the potter home through Saline. I agreed. Last time we went down the link road that connects the road to the bike track I got a puncture so I was slightly concerned but either the winds or a road sweeper had cleaned the road of thorns and pointy things and we sailed on to the bike path.

Our second dog encounter was with a black lab on the path - it appeared, wandered around and as we approached watchfully entirely disappeared - no idea were it went. Our third dog encounter was weaving our way through a couple of kids with a spaniel. The Fit One sped through them with a warning shout - no problem. I on the other hand took my time, so much it allowed the dog to dive in front of me. I wobbled, swung left and missed him.

It may be a cycle path but it's not a place for speeding bikes.

We turned to face the Col. This time the Fit One, slipped down a gear or 2 and the benefit of the compact gears he flew up the hill and appeared at the top without a bead of sweat to cross his brow. I bounced up. I love the Col - it's my favorite hill. It has a fairly even gradient up to about 30m from the top when it gets steeper until the turn to the drop down to Carnock.

My fourth encounter was with the neighbours Bull mastiff who escaped from the back garden was out and about - not where he should have been. He's just about 6 months old and a bundle of fun. I managed to persuade him back to the garden.

It was a day for mad dogs and scotsmen!!

Another great day out. I probably wouldn't have gone out today without the encouragement of the Fit One. The value that our friends bring to the journey is incredible and if we have the Fit One pushing us to train we will be fitter and better prepared next March.

Tomorrow's a run day......

More cross training of an odd variety....

Today's been a cracker....

No proper training but I took delivery of a 350lb treadmill - worked up a lather getting it installed in the new gym that we've created in the house. Also got a spin bike which I'm going to use to try and keep up with the bigman during the long winter nights.....

Out tomorrow with the Fit One and hopefully Santiago. The Fit One picks up a new bike and it will be on trial.

Until then.......

Ring of fire....

Another continental day in Fife. Summer has arrived and lasted a day longer than normal!

Yesterday, I decided to get up early and work up until lunch time. No meetings, telephone conferences, deadlines nothing nada. Freedom. It's one of the joys of self employment which can be bizarrely spoiled by the guilt that you feel when you're not working.

Anyway, with my dues paid to my business I set off to Edinburgh to meet a friend. The bike ride to Edinburgh was pretty mundane albeit really pleasant. I did the 30km to my friends house in just over an hour into a brisk easterly. The weather lifted the mood and the ride passed quickly.

I do the occasional triathlon. Swimming is my nemesis - I loathe it. Yesterday we were going open water swimming at the pond in Mussleburgh. The pond is place of much mystery. The main reason for the mystery is that you can see about 1 inch in front of you in the murky depths. Depths might be an exaggeration - the pond is about 1.2m deep all the way across. We arrived and I strained into my wetsuit. They are dreadful things. When I bought it a few years back the shop made me try on several that were too small before sending for the large size that I eventually bought. I'm sure it's either boredom or pure evil that drives the shop assistants behaviour as you are forced back into the shop wearing a wetsuit 2 sizes too small looking like a bloated dolphin with the movement of spotty dog (if you can remember who he was!).

The pond was warm, not always a good sign, and I followed my friend in to start the 200m to the other side. Open water swimming is entirely different to swimming in a pool. The pool has ropes at the side and tiles along the bottom to follow. With open water swimming you pick a point in the distance and check your course every 6 or so strokes. I'm hopeless in the pool and significantly worse in open water. I managed all of 800m, measured in a straight line, before jumping out to bask on the grass. The traffic in Edinburgh was a nightmare and I was glad to get back on the bike to cycle home.

My friend joined me for the section up to the bridge. She's off to do Ironman Switzerland in a couple of weeks and I'm sure will do an excellent time. The wind pushed me home and I enjoyed pushing a big cog with the support of the wind. The only slight problem I had was something was rubbing in my shorts. Not sure why because I worn them loads but yesterday I was grateful to come out of the saddle as much as possible.

So as Johnny Cash sung memorably:

I Fell Into A Burning Ring Of Fire
I Went Down, Down, Down
And The Flames Went Higher

And It Burns, Burns, Burns
The Ring Of Fire
The Ring Of Fire

Need I say more.......

Tour de France - Valverde officially out of Tour

The big question raging round these parts is will the bigman take his place in the team..........

Or will they knock on the ironmans door........

Only time will tell......

Conquering the Col De Carnock

The Fit One rocked up to the house at the back of six tonight. Changed and ready to roll out on an extended Saline loop.

It was the best day of the year with the car temperature peaking at 27deg - it was cooler at 6pm but still just fantastic. You can imagine why the europeans from warmer climbs enjoy biking so much because tonight was a joy. If the bigman had been with us even he might have donned short sleeves and no gillet! But then again maybe not....

We set off and climbed up to Saline, the easterly wind blew us down to Forest Mill. It was magic - a warm breeze and we were flying. We turned up to Clackmannan chatting away, ignoring the speed and enjoying good craic. We were surprised that we were moving as fast as we were giving we weren't really trying.

When we turned into the wind it didn't seem so bad so we kept the speed on all the way back to Cairneyhill via a new loop along the coast that The Fit One knew. I'd not been that way before but it was really scenic and a nice alternative to the main road.

Through Cairneyhill we turned to face the Col. The Fit One nervously flicked at his gears. He cycles with a 54 big ring on the front - a serious big ring. The guy in Hardies bike shop told us recently that you would need to be travelling at over 40mph to need more than a 50 big ring. So you can imagine the speed the Fit One can generate when on the his big ring flat out.

Anyway, back to the gears. His front derailleur has been jamming and he's not been able to change down to the small front climbing ring. The col was getting closer. The Fit One looked over and said 'I'll just have to do it on the big ring' - I knew that if he did this feat he would become a local legend but kept my mouth shut....

The col was approaching, the big ring was straining and The Fit One was flying.

At the bottom of the hill you can look up and see the white house at the top of the hill - it seems a long way - with this in site I heard a crunch and a yee ha from behind - the Fit One had changed gears.

We turned over the cycle path and crossed the bridge, took the final turn and started the climb. A pretend 4 wheel drive appeared behind - you know they call them Freelanders - for people that think they want a four wheel drive but end up with a big car. The car squeezed past the Fit One and then drove up behind me. I had decided to rip up the hill and was kicking the bike from side to side taking up a fair amount of road. Next thing I knew there was a blast of the horn and the guys pushed past forcing me into the grass verge - I was really hacked off - if he'd waited it would have cost him all of 30 seconds but he couldn't wait. At one point I thought I might get hit by the car but fortunately he missed.

Anyway The Fit One managed to share a word of encouragement with him and he had his window open so hopefully he understood a concise and clear message about his driving skills.....

We reached the top and glided back down to Carnock. It had been a fab ride 45km in 1:30 - a good average speed with a few decent climbs in excellent conditions with good company.

Hopefully out again tomorrow......

Run in the sun....

Today was a proud day in the household. Mrs Ironman did the moonwalk. The moonwalk is a marathon distance race that you must walk and not run. It sounds easy walking but it's not. Moonwalker, as she will be known, completed the race in 6:13 which is impressive. To speedwalk 26.20 miles without running in that time is a major feat and I was really impressed with the effort.

She finished in the top 100 out of 12,000 people sporting the biggest blister I've seen! So I think a running marathon will be on the cards sometime soon. She will get the best of treatment today and huge respect from me.

After I got home, and Moonwalker was sorted, I went out for a run. It was brilliant. I went from Carnock across to the cycle path via the park, down to Cairneyhill, back off road on the path that leads to Crossford, turned left up to the Dean Plantation and then back onto the cycle path and over the fields home. Running frees the spirit more so than biking for me. I've missed it while the achilles has been a problem and it's good to be out on the roads again.

I felt like I could run forever but was concious that you need to build slowly. So I followed last week's long slow 40 minute run with an hour run today. The main aim is not to get frustrated and allow the strength to build and avoid re-injury.

The route was great and the sun shone. Maybe summer has arrived in Fife - it usually lasts a couple of days!

Santiago and the Fit One were out yesterday and made contact from the nice wee cafe in Culross. Good coffee shops are a key part to any enjoyable cycle and the one in Culross next to the art shop is one of the best.

So a new week is about to begin. Plan 2 runs, 2 bike training rides and a game of football during next week. Yes I did say I'd never play again but there you go.....

Ironman suffers piston seizure in tropical storm

It was maginificently sunny and not a rain cloud on the horizon. Only problem with that forecast was that the wind was gusting to 40 miles per hour out of the west. The tropical storm about to hit them was just passing over Belfast! But............. it did not carry the luck of the Irish. A fine heat encouraged the Bigman to discard the winter longs and even the waterfproof jacket.

All readers of this blog are clearly of high intelligence and will be aware of the concept of global warming. It is now time to re-clibrate the old wife's tale about "ne'er cast a cloot till May is out". May has now officially been re-callibrated to June! The temperature dropped faster than Fred Goodwins pension award!

The raindrops were like inbound missiles, arriving at 40 mph, and bouncing in an eqaul and opposite trajectory back up under the trees to catch smug cyclists who were thinking of sheltering. If the Ironman had not been there to regale Bigman with tales of his Ironman exploits in New Zealand.......... again .................. it would have been a seriously less enjoyable experience.

After what seemed like a couple of days, the shower passed and we were back on our way again........... well almost. The creaking from the Madone confirmed why Bigman never takes it out on rainy days. This was not a happy machine.

A unanimous decision was taken by both to cut short the bike ride as, whilst memories of early years and wet nappies are laughed away, a wet pair of padded cycling shorts is less easy to laugh off. On ascending the slight rise to the Saline road, Ironman was making heavy weather of something he would not normally have even changed gear to tackle.

One of his pistons was in malfunction mode. His right leg had no power to pump the pedals. He limped his 'Trekkie' home with all the care of Scottie in Star trek restricting the warp to only 2 or 3. To compound matters, he had a puncture on the front tyre.

Bigman can testify that punctures on a sunny, warm temperature, scenic environment can be a disppointment. A puncture when your pants are wet, you are feezing cold, and your right leg is not responding to messages from your brain can be a tadge more challenging............................ unless you are the Ironman ............ in which case you step another gear (or half a gear) and grind out the miles.

Bigman did not hear one complaint. The nitpickers amongst you may say it had something to do with the fact that he went home by a different route, but that would be unfair. Ironman would merely have asked are we there yet.( A reference to the 62.5 hr 1000 mile Lejog adventure from 2008 - mile number 996 to be precise, and 997, and 998, and 999)

Today was one of these bike rides which you consign to the scrapbook in the sky as a bad dream that never happened. Bike ride, what bike ride?

Postscript: The Madone has been dried, polished and oiled and has fully recovered and is fighting fit for the next exciting instalment of the Epic Caper 2010

A nice winter's ride....

Today wasn't a bad day, a bit windy, sunny spells and an hour's down pour.....

The bigman and I met up at his house for a blast up to Kelty and back over Cliesh. I have to say I didn't feel on top form today, whimped out and suggested the cycle track, Saline and home.....

We set off into the wind, the clouds were building in the west, dark and ominous. The rain started, it was those heavy, tropical storm drops. They gathered momentum quicker than the bigman and I could escape and forced us off road. We blethered under a tree as the rain battered down. Eventually it stopped, well just about stopped and we got going again. It was more like a March ride than a summer ride - baltic.

The bigman's madone turned into a bag of spanners and sounded like a 1950's raleigh - must have been the rain! When we turned toward Saline the ironman turned into a jelly baby - my legs had nothing to give, no power, acceleration nothing. I felt done in and the bigman cruised up the hills wondering where I was. Really weird feeling.

Into Saline and the curse of the bigman continued - except he passed it onto to me and I had a puncture. First one in ages and only second of the year. I pumped the tyre up twice on the way home and that did the job....

Difficult day at the office all up.....

US president's brother comments on Epic Caper

Today, Bigman was down in the big smoke to discuss business opportunities which scuppered any plans for a training run.

He was asked at a meeting why he had been inspired to enter the Cape Epic. He could have said that the Ironman can be very persuasive, however he went for the Robert Kennedy quote............ "There are those who look at things the way they are, and ask why..................... I dream of things that never were, and ask why not?”Seemed a good response in the context of convincing people we should pursue new opportunities together.

Whilst just off Liverpool Street, Bigman observed a cyclist getting a ticket from a police motor cyclist for going through a red light. The Fit One should take note as he is often dodging traffic and 'racing the lights'.

The only exercise for Bigman today was a sprint from near Liverpool Street Station at 16:10 to Bank Street tube station dancing around a few bemused and previously bespectacled tourists for teh purpose of catching a 17:20 flight from City Airport. It was all looking good when he caught the tube on arrial at the platform. 45 minutes to go. tight but doable . Two stations to go and the train stops! Some WAG has dumped a shopping trolley on the line and all trains were stoped literlally on their tracks. This could be 5 minutes or 50 minutes. 5 minutes was fine 50 minutes was not. The trolley was removed after the 5 minutes and we were on our way. On arrival at the airport checkin desk, the crew member's raised eyebrow was matched only by the tonal pitch in her voice suggesting their was more chance of MP's claiming only legitimate expenses than their was of Bigman getting on a flight that was boarding.

The crewmember had never witnessed the Bigman take the ball in 5 a sides from his own defense and weave a path through several defenders only to pop the ball in the top right hand corner passed The Fit One with all the agility of a 10 year old.

Up the escalator, passed the waiting queue apologising intermittently as he Q-jumped. Why do you always have to be the one to take your shoes off when you are in a hurry, pondered Bigman. With seconds to spare he crossed the line of the entrance to the boarding pen, metaphorically punching the air in an olympic gold winner sort of way. As he looked around at the watching gazes, he wondered was it metaphotric or had he really punched the air? Oh well, not many people know Bigman, he thought.

This is a type of cross training Bigman would not recommend. Tomorrow is another day and an outing is planned with the Ironman. Let's hope it is dry and sunny.

A bit of cross training...

Of the Cape Epic team the bigman is the footballer - a bulldozer going forward at speed with good ball control. Chopper Harris at the back - nothing goes past him....

I got a call this morning from a mate who was one short for tonight's game. I actually think his real motivation was to get a lift to the game and I was the only driver available. It was a fab evening in Dalgety Bay and the game kicked off in the late afternoon sun - I felt like a Brazilian in the world cup final except I was wearing a Caley Thistle top.

Our team's defence was tested early. Failed miserably as one of the young, gifted opposition ghosted past most of our team before belting the ball in the top corner. A breakaway brought the equaliser. The game moved into a midfield battle - few chances, lots of tackles and not much of a spectacle for the passing stray cats. Then the game burst into life and we were 3 down.

The old legs were grinding to a halt - passing the ball became key for our team as we tired in the continental sun. We got one back, then another and another. All square couple of minutes to go. Our keeper, who had a hip injury, rolled the ball out to our central defender. I made a deft run into space and the ball zipped into my feet. One touch and it was out to the right wing. I turned and ran into space on the right hand side, the ball was slid back to me and like the great Ronaldo with one touch again I passed to a runner in the centre of the pitch. With vision, he completed a beautiful pass to the left winger who picked the ball up and crossed it in to the box. I had continued my run. The net was bulging in my mind as I met the ball with a crisp volley. Sadly, I missed. A few inches lower and it would of been goal of next season but that's football.

To rub salt in the wound, they ran up the park and scored the winner.

Gutted, sick as a parrott and taking it a game at a time.....

On the way home I saw the Bigman's biking partner from last Monday out for a run. We had briefly discussed his alias when were out on Tuesday and I think agreed he shall be named Marathon Man. He is an exceptional marathon runner. When I bumped into Marathon Man tonight he was living up to his alias building up a head of steam on a training run round the streets of Dunfermline. He's a fast runner, did an exceptional time in completing last year's Edinburgh Marathon and an inspiration for plodders like myself.

Hopefully get out on the bike tomorrow....

Is this the real thing or is this just fantasy? asks The Bigman

With the weather threatening heavy rain, there was confusion in the training camp today, not to mention a bit of role reversal. Bigman sported the shorts and no waterproofs whilst The Ironman displayed a weakened resolve and covered up with a heavy duty waterproof jacket.

The route was Ironman's favourite, down the cycle track to Clackmannan, hang a left into the town and down to the Forth via Kincardine. The route then follows the cycle route to Culross, Torryburn and back to Cairneyhill before the ascent of the Col de Carnock. A 30 mile round trip for the Bigman and slightly less for the Ironman.

Bigman was clearly feeling confident that his puncture would not be repeated as he only had one spare inner tube for the outing. The ride was smooth and the brisk wind on the return leg brought some pain to the thighs as the team pounded the pedals. No pain......no gain, so the slogan goes!

This would be the first time the Madone had experienced the Col de Carnoc. Would the gearing make a difference was the question on the mind of Bigman as Ironman wound up the cogs on the climb he calls 'home'. Bigman could see the grin on his face as he eagerly attacked the 'warm up' ascent ( as defined by The Ironman).

Bigman checks the topography, 'is this the real thing or is this just fantasy', he cries to The Ironman. 'It's just fantasy' fires back the answer! The real deal has still to come just around the next corner. Before you could say 'bohemian rhapsody' the road darkened and the Col was in your face. The road surface was wet due an earlier shower, which would make the ascent even more treacherous. There is no roadsign indicator however a safe estimate would suggest it is a 25% gradient. Not one for the feint hearted.

The Madone was everything she promises to be with only a slight skid and burning of the rubber on a damp, dark patch of the road. A momentary pausing of the Bigman's heart and the tyres that survived the etape tack attack are gripping the surface once again carrying the Bigman to the top and bright sunlight breaks the darkness of they crest the Col de Carnoc

In the end, once again, the rain danced around the Epic Pair washing clean the roads before they arrived on their journey, criusing through the countryside with the greatest of ease. The only water visible was from perspiration as the duo drove into the brisk easterly.

A well earned bowl of soup and bagels was the order of the day at Chez Ironman, washed down by a fine cup of tea on the verandah of his new office block in brilliant sunshine. Anotehr 30 miles nearer Cape Town. Life is good

the great escape.....

The bigman dug the tunnel and I accepted his kind offer to escape for a 90 minute blast through the west Fife countryside. The agreed escape route was from Carnock, up to the cycle path, Clackmannan, Culross and home via Col De Carnock.

The trip was some 40km completed in a fairly gentle 27kph average but it was windy in our defence. We swapped tails of thorny punctures, long office hours and the continuing unsettled weather. Albeit we got round today in the dry but it looked like some parts had been through a good hosing a few minutes in advance of our arrival.

Couple of things to add to the last post - Today no quarter was given and none was asked. We cycled the majority of the route side by side, no helping in the wind, taking shelter or leading taking your turn. It was a training ride and to maximise the benefit of a brisk easterly you take the wind in your own face. The burn in my legs as we crossed the new link road to the Kincardine Bridge was testament to the speed we did into the wind.

The bigman is a climber of some class. He has developed speed and strength that will stand him in good stead in South Africa. The last climb today was tricky - slippy road, slick tyres and about an inch of rubber touching the road at any given point. The top of the Col de Carnock was really slippy and I glanced up to see the bigman spin his back wheel round on the steaming road. He held his balance with grace, put the foot down and managed to avoid what I thought was going to be an inevitable meeting with the road. Power and grace are a rare combination.

It felt like the great escape today as, still occasionally, I feel guilty about taking a couple of hours off during the day. Fortunately I didn't need to jump the fence for freedom and only the hurdles in my mind could drag me back from where I had escaped.

The office, as suggested by bigman, should be converted into a cyclists cafe - an excellent idea. I'll do it the next time the Tour de France is in the village!!

Another great day on a classic route. We both felt great at the end of the ride - Sky's the limit!

Commodity prices in rubber rocket ............

After a day off cycling to visit the inlaws in the North of Scotland ( which included a spot of sunbathing on the Moray Rieviera) it was back to the grindstone today. The forecast was not loking good on the met office website, however the reality out of the window looked more promising. The, as yet un-named alias, had his day off today and so it was arranged for a small 25 mile outing along the cyclepath to Forestmill and back through Saline.

All was going well, the bikes were cruising, the chat was flowing and then bang!!!!!

Bigman bags another blowout. After a close inspection of the tyre, a thorn has embedded itself in the tyre and another tube is consigned to that great dustbin in the sky. Sometimes you can be unlucky out cycling and get the odd puncture but this is verging on conspiracy theory.

Is there someone out there intent on laying weapons of mass destruction to thwart Bigman's attempt at world domination through completing the Cape Epic at the ripe old age of 50 years of age? There is as much chance of this being true, as a retired solicitor and leader of the community council alledgedly laying carpet tacks along 10 miles of road to make a point. You, the reader can decide.

Bigman is currently negotiating with kwik Fit a sponsorship deal including a 'futures price' for rubber tubes to avoid the double hit of the sinking pound and deflationary pressure on his tyres.

Woe is he!

On a positive note, as they returned along teh Saline route, the the rain stayed elsewhere a dry run completed without any further hare-raising events!

Long road to recovery....

I'm having a day off the bike today and having a spare hour decided to run.

I've not been running much because of my achilles as mentioned before. In reality, running was my first love and I started running before I got into biking. It was December 2004 and I started out from a very poor base. I was 17 stone, very unfit, my business had gone bust in the October and life was in turmoil. I didn't know what to do. I don't know why but I decided to get myself fit.

I went home and dug out an old pair of trainers, top and jogging bottoms but I was embarrassed about trying to run so I waited until dark and went out to the local park. I walked/run for 15 minutes and was knackered. I went home determined to improve. Being a bit mad when I went home and before I showered, I entered the Edinburgh marathon in June 2005. Danielle and I had got married earlier in that year and she has been a source of constant support and encouragement. That Christmas she bought me a marathon book by Sam Murphy.

So that was it, I was off. I followed the programme to the letter and duly completed the marathon in a modest 4.32. Once the journey started and the weight started coming off I completely fell in love with running.

I've had 8 weeks off running because of the achilles and I've missed it. So 5 miles today in 40 minutes brought back the old joy. I still love running!

Gruelling Glen Devon re-visited

With 35 miles under his belt, the Bigman joined Ironman for an ascent of the Glen Devon Pass. The target destination was Auchterarder and the climb from the south is gentle after Mont VeKnockhill. Ironman wrestled with clothing decisions, arm warmers on or off, waterproof jacket on or in pocket. Decisions, decisions. Eventually, after a coffee and Mama Ironman shortcake, it was arm warmers nil, showerproof jacket in pocket and they were off.

The rumble of the touring car acceleration at the eponymous race circuit was only matched by the duo as they blasted up the hill out of Saline hot on the wheels of two Dunfermline Club Cyclists. They joined the chaingang and matched the club cyclists accelaration to draft all the way up to the crossroads in the shadow of Mont VeKnockhill. A farewell salute to cycling brothers and it was time to face into the MontVeKnockhill. The only wind was that created by themselves. The temperature was warming and rain clouds danced tantalisingly around the hills however the sun was shining on the cyclists.

As they breezed past the Powmill Cafe Bar, a cycling club was out in force enjoying a respite and eyed the pair with awe and respect. It's a funny thing about cyclists, you see some other cyclists and you feel the need to hoist in the gut, push out the chest and pump up the pace ................... if only until you are out of sight!

As the duo sped along side Glen Devon Reservoir, an inbound call from The Fit One who is down in Ilkey procuring tandems for a local charity he supports. He has just been caught speeding on a drooped handlebar tandem in a thirty mile an hour speed limit. Sounds like the Duracell will need to arrange bail.

The scenery through Glen Devon is majestic. Ironman has never driven or cycled through this road and commits to taking Mrs Ironman to the hotel they pass for a lunch. It could be in the car or it could be on a tandem ............... the choice will be hers.

The downhill into Gleneagles is everyhting the Bigman had remembered. They powered downhill at over 20mph and that was not even pedaling. The return leg would be interesting to say the least.

With the later start, the pair were in need of sustinance. A local, recommended the Cafe Kriss. It alledgedly had the best home made cakes in Auchterarder. No mean feat, I hear you exhale!
The Cheese and Ham Chiabattis were magnificent amply supported by a range of salad dressings for the accompanying salad. On asking for insider information on the best cake, the boys were advised not to pass up the world famous Cafe Kriss apple and toffee pie, heated of course, and with dripping fresh cream. Bigman has promised to keep this a secret and so please do not share this with anyone else. Ironman had so much cream, the plate could not accomodate and it gushed onto the table. The service was brilliant and friendly. The boys will be back here in the future.

With much chatting going on, the boys failed to notice the turning and felt that whilst joining the A9 might have been a quicker road, it brought with a health and safety risk that the Wingman would not condone ( had he been here). A 180 degree turn had them back en route to the gruelling Glen Devon Pass. It was 4 miles long and straight up. Ironman was psyching out the Bigman with comments like - 'let me know when the hill begins for real' and 'let me know if I am going too fast'.By this point the Bigman has already done around 65 miles today and his legs are beginning to tell his brain this. Ironman notes this in his log for later when they are on Mont VeKnockhill.

The gruelling Glen turns out to be surprisingly straight forward andthey average 20kph up to the telegraph pole which marks the watershed. No longer will 'the glen' feel like a mountain, more like a dumyat.

The run down the other side was tremendous all the way to the foot of Mont VeKnockhill. Ironman decided to push for the top with Bigman clamping onto his wheel. Ironman can be generous but not when he can small weakness in a cycling buddy.His big heart turns to Ironman steel as he pounds the pedals. They reach the first crest together and spy two cyclists in the distance. This is a sign for Ironman to step up the pace again. Bigman responds, eventually, and closes the gap. The cyclists in front grow larger as the gap closes. Ironman resolves to catch them before the summit. Bigman passes the Ironman and grits his teeth as the final assault of the ascent beckons. 50 yards to go and the guys on bikes are girls and they are motoring. Bigman can smell Ironman on his tail ( metaphorically speaking). Ironman's front wheel enters the view of Bigman. They pass the girls who must feel they are standing still. An unfair self criticism as the boys are doing 27mph up hill. The Bigman crests the summit one gear from the smallest cog and breathes a sigh of relief.

As they descend to the crossroads, the spectating cows nod with respect as the flying cyclists pass their field.

Another great day out. Bigman has completed 86 miles on a cracking day with good climbs and great company. Another milestone passes ........................ they are now only 39 weeks until the Epic Caper and the fitness levels are rising faster than a Gordon Ramsay loaf.

The man with the iron mask.....

What a great day. My first time over Glendeveon.

The Bigman picked me up later than usual and we set off to Auchterarder. It was chilly first thing and the bigman was dressed in spring to winter kit with a minor concession by wearing shorts. He had more layers on than a Gordon Ramsay puff pastry.....

We set off at a brisk pace up to Saline, a couple of club bikers went past us and we grabbed a lift on the back of the train. That took us up to Knockhill. The climb seemed easier than usual and we were rocking along.

The turnoff over Glendeveon opened up a new road for me. It was tremendous ride up the Glen on a beautiful road with stunning scenery. We floated up to the top of the hill with wings in our legs. We hadn't stopped pushing and the blast down to Auchterarder was a pleasant respite if not a little concerning as we considered the climb back up.

I played golf up until a few years ago most weekends but even the fine greens at Gleneagles didn't have the attraction of they once had. Auchterarder is home to many cafe's and we picked on of the finest. Cafe Kris is home to a fine toastie and even finer apple pie with caramel topping. We enjoyed the luxury of an extra coffee before setting off on the climb home.

The bigman had talked long about the hill but in reality it was a piece of pie (possibly apple with caramel topping!) - the hill was over before it started - I reckon it was the good company but the bigman only had me for company so I don't know what powered him up the hill. We averaged over 20kph all the way up. The bigman couldn't believe it was over and took some convincing that we were at the top.

Once over the top I engaged my iron head and we really turned on the power. We pushed hard all the way back and the trip home reminded me of racing on the bike leg of the ironman. We climbed Knockhill quickly passing a couple of other bikers like they were stood still and were rewarded with the downhill back to Dunfermline.

Another cracking day with the bigman - big respect to him for keeping up an average of 33kph all the way home especially after completing 35 miles before he met me. The bigman is very fit.

The scenery, climbs and weather were fab but the highlight was still the apple pie!

For the record, the diet is going pretty well with today's weigh in showing a 4lb loss for the week. It's not taken huge changes but a lot of little changes and the iron wife has been a great support.

Mrs Wingman sees BIG bird..............

Mrs Wingman and Mrs Bigman were poing out for a climb over the Cleish and onto Loch Leven's Larder farm coffee shop. As the Ironman was on family duty first thing this morning, Bigman decided to accompany Mrs squared ( no reference to shape!) on the first part of the journey over Cleish and returning by Mont VeKnokhill. This would allow him to warm up with a wee 35 mile loop before going out with the Ironman. On the way up to Cleish, Mrs Bigman spotted a BIG bird. As one who has studied ornothology to an academic standard, Mrs Wingman was able to confirm that it was not yellow. The remainder of the party remained in awe at the depth of insight and knowledge. A good pace was achieved and Bigman said his farewells at teh junction to Kinross and headed for Powmill before climbing back over Mont VeKnockhill to chez Ironman. A cup of coffee at Ironman's and some of his mum's carb fuelled shortcake sorted the boys ready for the gurelling Glen Devon Pass ............................. a first for the Ironman

The Fit One sees double

The Fit One is on the board of charity providing cycling access for visually impaired individuals. The charity have been successful in raising funds to buy a fleet of new tandems. The Fit One is travelling south this evening to purchase 6 tandems. This is a charity close to his heart. So much so, he has forfeited the opportunity to accompany Bigman and Ironman on the traditional Saturday morning outing. ( Hard to resist, I know - ed)

It just goes to show, there are somethings in life more important than bikes ..................... like buying bikes!

The Fit One is a top man.

The hills are alive .....................

Mrs Bigman has decided if you can't beat them, then you might as well join them. Having cycled for many years on a fine Scott hybrid, Mrs B has decided to join henks of the roadies and today took delivery of a very fine Trek 1.5 road bike.

To give the maching a bit of a thrashing she raced up the mighty Cleish in 31 minutes with the Bigman shaking in his size 11's. It has been suggested as Bigman, Mrs Bigman, Master Bigman, and Miss Bigman all have Trek machines they should be nicknamed the Von Trek family. It will never take off.

It has been a cracking day and the weather forecast is looking positive for Saturday also. Bigman has a date with Ironman and will be ascending a new mountain as they stray into Perthshire in search of new climbing quests as they seek fitness for their epic Caper in South Africa in 2010 or put another way just over 40 weeks away!

No gain without pain ........... really?

Bigman was on the search for employment today and so cycling was going to have to wait. With a fair wind he would b able to get back to Dunfermline in time for an early evening trip out. Things went well and he was able to 'hit the rubber' at 16:00 having had a successful day.

He flew down to Cairniehill and out to the eponymous town of Clackmannanshire. with a strong easterly he was enjoying the feeling of speed and the wind rushing through his hair ........ both of them.

The return leg would not be his friend. He battled into the rising cycle track and wind pushing, a good pace of 22mph. The pain was rising and the mind games start to play. Where is the whitehouse on the horizon - a sign the track is starting to level and only three miles to go. He imagines the Ironman pushing the pace however the Ironman would get off a the white house to 'enjoy' the Carnock crusher climb( crushes you psychologically at the end of a run) and an easy pace could be stolen without anyone knowing. But when Bigman looked in teh mirror that evening, his face would reveal the secret. Cycling is all about the constant battle with self and the desire to constantly improve your performance. Others may inspire and encourage, however, the real power comes from the engine within which runs on the oil of spirit.

By the time the final rise had been completed the pace was down to 17mph and the heart was pumping. It had been a good workout and another small step in the epic caper mammoth challenge.

Another tough set.....

Well another hard training session today.

The bigman appeared at about half eight and we planned the session ahead. It was a tough choice of what to do but after much consideration we eventually, and we wrestled over this one, picked a red. A nice french red selected from Wood Winters in Bridge of Allan......

It was a fab training evening and possibly a session that's worth repeating, even with a nice chilled Sauvignon!

As a small aside I did a wee jogette of 4 miles on a stunning Tuesday morning.

Life is pretty good!

Gillespie Wheelers....

At the fabulous Loch Leven's Larder yesterday......

The rogue's gallery, from the left - the new wheeler, Fit One, Santiago and the Bigman.

Ironman knocked out by fly weight ............

Today was going to be a tale of two teams. Santiago is suffering from muscle problems in his right leg and is cycling with one leg bending out as well as round. The team suspect this is the body unconsciously trying to protect the muscle from further damage. Each stage had someone cycling alongside to encourage him along the journey. It is never easy to be out with a reasonably fit group when you are feeling less than 100%. It just serves to re-enforce your lack of match fitness.

After the battle of the bumble bee last week, and extending the analogy of boxing ( poor journalism I know - ed), The Ironman had a run in with a fly. Or rather the fly ran in to him as they scooted down Mont VeKnockhill. It stopped him in his tracks until Mr Fly was delicately removed and full vision was restored. The five colourful cyclists had heads turning as they breezed past the pretty busy Powmill cafe. Today they had miles to be covered before they were rewarded with carbs.

Santiago's injury did not stop him from breaking from the pack to create a breakaway as they approached the high point on the road to Milnathort. The peleton was cruising at 21 mph into the wind and so he had some mettle to make the break for it. It was not long before the team had him wound back into the pack.

Loch Leven's Larder is a great spot and even better on a fine summer's day. The Bigman had dressed for winter after yesterday's frost bite episode. It was lovely to sit outside and feel the heat through his thermal longjohns. He suspects others may have a different perspective.

Cleish is looking magnificent with purple wild rhodedendrum bushes in full flower against the green grassy background. The hill has enough elevation to make you take your time to enjoy it.

On the run down to Dunfie, a new strategy was deployed by the Bigman at the unofficial racepoint. As in the indoor championships, he was keeping the pace leisurely to counter the sprint capability of the Fit One. In a moment of slack concentration, the Fit One drifted to the front. He knew that this was a mistake for which 'the piper would have to be paid'. With the scent of defeat drifting through air, manfully, he picked up the pace with vigour. However, on this particular day, the pace was not enough. The Ironman was chasing to spectate the end of the race and had a good view from behind.

The piper was paid in full, Bigman claimed the prize.

Scott(y) and 4 Trekies!

Another fantastic day out - 77km on a cold but sunny afternoon. Odd weekend - the forecast was for a dry Saturday and a wet Sunday. As usual completely wrong and it was the other way round.

We were joined by a new member of the Gillespie Wheelers today - a suitable name is up for grabs...

The Bigman had winter kit, Santiago, the new Wheeler and the Fit One were in summer kit and I was in a mix of summer and winter kit. Turned out the Bigman was probably more right than wrong....

We met at the usual junction and flew up Knockhill, it's a cracking climb and helped by a brisk easterly we breezed up the hill. We turned past the Powmill Cafe, up to Yetts O Muckhart and then turned into the cold easterly. We blasted the 8 miles to Milnathort - sharing the load into the wind and keeping up an 18 mph average (aka warp factor 1!) good going. The Fit One was doing his Scotty impersonation - 'she's can't handle this captain she's breaking up!' - the good news is that he has all the bits to repair his bike so hopefully the Scott (Enterprise) will be fully functioning next time we hit the black holes in the road.

When we stopped in Milnathort we paused briefly to discuss which cafe to go to - Loch Levens Larder won the vote hands down especially with the Bigmans discount card bringing down the costs. It was baltic sitting outside so we didn't hang around - I'll post a wee picture I took later. He'd been in and paid so quickly we were stopped on the way out by one of the staff who thought we were doing a runner! We laughed off any embarrassment and were on our way.

The blast home was a treat with the wind helping. The climb up Cleish seemed easier than usual - the bigman breezed up first with me on his Lycra tails. That left the final sprint up to the Bus Museum - 1st Bigman 2nd Fit One 3rd Ironman - I thought I'd timed it perfectly but no chance - left in the wake of the sprinters!

So the ride might not be as enterprising as the title but it was pretty stella anyway!

It's not about the bike ....it's about the bat....

I didn't make it out today with the warriors as I was busy on family duty which in the end turned out to be vastly more exiting than the trip round the cold and miserable forth.

The Iron son is still at school and plays for the school cricket 11. They were playing at some ridiculous time which resulted in an early start and long drive into Edinburgh. The game started in the spring sun that seemed to have avoid Fife and after 20 overs the opposition racked up a reasonable 93 runs. Not quite T 20 world cup stuff that's going on doon south but a respectable score that would have had the England batting line up challenged!

Iron son's team headed out to bat. The wickets started tumbling 3 for 3 - a bad start. The wickets continued to tumble, 17 for 7 - a really bad start. Iron son is a bowler, he keeps a good line and length and is keeps the opposition batsmen on there toes and he can bat a bit as well.

Out to the crease batting number 9, hardly a ball faced and the score was 20 for 8 wickets. Realising the game was disappearing away from them faster than Andrew Symonds jumping on a plane back to Australia after a few beers without team orders, he thought 'have a go'. After the he hit his first 4, a wag from the opposition shouted 'that will be your last' - it wasn't. Steeled by the opposition sledging he knocked another 4, then a 6 and then another 4. The runs started flowing from both ends of the wicket as the game turned on it's head. He was eventually out for a glorious 29 that steadied the ship. That left the last pair at the crease - the opposition quite shocked by the onslaught were bowling all over the place, a memorable chuck for 5 runs thrown in and with a tremendous thump the ball was smashed over the boundary for a superb win.

The freedom with which they played was a lesson not to go in and give up when things are not going your way but to stick in and fight back.

Nothing to do with biking, training but a nice sports story which made my day. I'm going to remember this when I labouring up the hills in South Africa. Never give up!

Also I'm one proud dad and I know the iron son will hold his head high in school on Monday!

Back on the bike tomorrow - here's hoping it warms up!!

Rain returns for an encore ............

It may be June, It may be only two weeks until the longest day, however that counts for nothing in this whacky country for temperatures.

The Fit One, Santiago, and Bigman set out to circumvent the Forth estuary across the Forth Road Bridge and the Kincardine Bridge. It is a 45 mile route and has some of the finest views in Scotland ................ normally.

It was a fresh wind out of the east as they set off with Santiago and The Fit One entering the spirit of the season sporting short sleeved shirts and shorts. Only Bigman, having checked the forecast opted for spring longs. Even he could not have imagined the cold rain that was about to fall relentlessly as they pushed along the south bank of the Forth. Just for a laugh the wind direction changed half way round bringing back the rain for an 'encore' as they returned along the north bank.

Coffee in the recently re-opened cafe in Kincardine served to re-vitalise the guys. Santiago is looking forward to the London Triathlon with some specialist training planned to improve his swim technique. He was certainly climbing well today and maxxing out when he could, down on the tribars on the bike.

Today was one of those training runs when you build character. There is little chat in the bunch and you put your head down and do the miles, winding in the road home with every turn of the pedals.

Tomorrow is another day with forecast increase in the temperature .............. plenty of scope for that.

Bigman solo climb training

With the Fit One returning from the Oasis concert in Manchester and the Ironman working on a piece of work with tight deadlines, Bigman decided to focus for Friday on some hill climb training on the Cleish Hill.

He eased with way to the top in 28mins and 7 seconds. After descending the north face, he returned to Dunfermline in 1 hour 8 mins for the 17 miles. He knows their is a margin for improvement there.

Breaking news ....................Santiago and The Fit One to lead Tour de France into Paris

After reading Ironman's boxing bout with a bumble bee earlier today, my mind was cast back to the Skye challenge at the weekend and wondered, momentarily, whether this was revenge ofthe bumble bee? Had a distant relative of the clan McBee sought revenge for the new sporting energy drink born out of neccesity for the Skye 95 mile, 10,000 ascent, monster marathon cycle? With no stocks of honey stinger energy sachets available in any of the bike shops visited by the Ironman, he made his own. Take a squeezy bottle of runny honey and squirt liberally into a 1 litre water bottle. Fill bottle to the top with cold water and mix well. You now have teh complete and natural energy drinkand probaly for less than the cost of a honey stinger sachet. But beware, each mix may attract the wrath of the clan McBee should word get out.

Bigman was out for a 2o mile spin tonight including the Aberdour Ascent. The Fit One had not been fed and so no record attempt was to be made tonight. 4 mins and 11 seconds remains the target to beat. It was a chilly wind from the east that sapped the energy only partially outweighed by the heat in the sun. As the pair approached the metroplolis of Aberdour, The Fit One tucked in behind the ever decreasing shadow of the Bigman. The Chippie visit on Monday assisted in the failure to achieve a new weight reduction record.

A deeply theological debate broke out after climbing the Ascent which will be reported in a future blog coming soon to a screen near you.

In the meantime the hot news is that Santiago and The Fit One will lead the Tour de France into Paris on 26th July 2009 ................................ subject to the flight being on time!

When you watch the final stage live on TV, you may be forgiven for imagining that all the cheering will be for the 2009 Tour de France winner. Look closely and you will spot the real heroes. Santiago and The Fit One will be wearing yellow jerseys amongst the thronging crown. If you should spot a couple of Fit, Fat, and Forty plus blokes sporting yellow lycra, you may be looking at the famous Santiago and The Fit One.

Float like a butterfly.....

I decided that since I was going out by myself I would set myself a circuit so I can see if I'm getting any faster as I train. So I set out on what I'll called the Saline Circuit today full of hope and expectation.

The bike was my friend, the elements were not. A nagging cold wind off the east blasted through the Lycra like it wasn't there and it felt cold even though my temperature gauge was reading 15 degrees.

I pushed hard up the hill to Saline and turned west towards Clackmannan. I was flying. At the bottom of the hill I flashed past a policeman with his radar gun secretly hoping I be stopped for speeding - sadly I wasn't going fast enough and slipped under the radar. The gentle ups and downs of the roads at the bottom of the Ochils didn't slow me down and I was pleased that I was able to push on hard. Sometimes it can be hard to motivate yourself go keep pushing when alone on the bike and I think the though of setting a time gave me a reason to keep going.

I was thinking about weight, diet at this point in the ride but decided not to start the blog with the Brigit Jones Diary start of such and such a date, weight, food, drink etc etc - some details are not worth keeping. The latest start of the famed diet (or lifestyle change as we like to call it!) has lasted, well almost 72 hours......

I turned onto the the Kinross to Alloa road and then quickly off towards Clackmannan. On to the cycle path and into the wind. The cycle path is a long uphill to Dunfermline populated by bikers, runners and dog walkers. I was only held up a couple of times on the first section. At one point I passed an old couple out on what looked like new Raleigh Shoppers, the Madone of the pensioner shopping bike! I though that one day when I reach that age I'd like to be like them - out on the bikes for a run and enjoying the cycle path. Bikers are a fab community from Chris Hoy, Lance Armstrong to beginners out on the stabilisers - always a hello and smile. I don't know Chris Hoy or Lance Armstrong and I'm not sure what they would do if I went passed them but I like to think we are all the same under the skin!

It was about 6 miles from home when I encountered Mohamed Ali Bee - he floated like a butterfly and then, as predicted by the great boxer, stung like a bee. The pain was instant and I now sport a nice red bump on my chest were the bee got me. It was the first time I've every been stung and it's quite painful.

Anyway, mere bee stings don't deter a man on a mission. So after a wobble it was back on full steam. The end of the bike track is never a great site for me as it leaves me the nasty wee climb back up to the village. I pounded on the pedals and reached home in 61.10 - a new record. Well any distance never timed previously is awarded the accolade of a new record.

The target is set for the future and the one hour barrier is up for grabs.

I managed to unclip out of the wrong pedal and fell onto the pavement after I'd stopped the bike today - donkey! I was so embarrassed as 3 cars stopped to check I was ok and have a good laugh!

A good day's training today as I also managed a 4 mile run first thing this morning.

One last thing - my handlebar tape started coming loose. The flapping of the tape must have slowed me down a little.....

Scotland at its best

Yesterday was another scorcher in the 25 degrees plus range. For a few weeks now, the Bigman's daughter has been threatening to drag him up a munro as part of his training regime. The sun was shining, the excuses were not present, and so this was the day. The target mountain was Braeriach in the Cairngorm mountain range near Aviemore. At 4000ft plus, Braeriach is one of four 4000ft plus mountains overlooking the Lairig Ghru mountain pass between Deeside and Speyside.

They set off from the Ski Road car park at 10.00 after a six o'clock rise. The plan had been to buy water in Aviemore before the ascent. Bad plan. Aviemore was completely sold out of water. Instead, they bought flavoured sparkling water for the flasks with a plan to dilute in the fresh, cool, fast flowing rivers en route.


At eleven o'clock it was time for elevenses. They had made good time through the Chalaman Gap and rested by the sparling waters tumbling effortlessly through the Lairig Ghru. The Fit one called to advise Bigman of his official time in Skye. He enquired about the sound of running water in the background and, as a keen mountaineer, could quickly visualise the scenery, the sounds, and could hear the silence.



Onwards and upwards they pushed up the shoulder to the plateau that led to the summit. As you crest the shoulder you can see the peaks of Cairngorm, Cairn Toul, Devil's point, Derry Cairn Gorm and of course lunch, stop at the top of Braeriach. Having feasted on the food of athletes ( Pork Pies - The Duracell would approve) the pair took the opportunity to catch forty winks in the brilliant sunshine and deafening silence. If this was not heaven, it was certainly the best place on earth.


Bigman's daughter has gained a healthy appetite for Tesco Chewy bananas supplemented by the Ironman's blue energy jelly beans, even checking they were legal. The store will need to be moved!

Bigman carried the 45 litre rucsack fit for a fortnight's walking safe in the knowledge it would build upper body strength and could even lead to a new weight record at the weigh in next morning. In the high peaks of Scotland you have to plan for all four season's weather happening on the same day. The heat certainly provided plenty of opportunity for dehydration. The diluted flavoured 'highland sping' water was working well at avoiding the de-hydration. The day's exercise ended with a welcome ice cream and a stop of for a futher carb injection at the Chippie in Pitlochry. Second time in two days and steak pie and chips all round. Bigman has not checked in with Ironman about his diet starting however he empathises the temptation of 'the chippie' is too hard to resist :-)