The weather as the bigman has alluded was pants. Grey skies and lots of rain. I let the bigman down as my plan was to join him on his epic plan - then a meeting got in the way. Then the meeting was cancelled. Then the rain became incessent. Then I worked all day. Summer in Scotland is something special....
I was just about to open a large bag of crisps this evening when my phone lit up with a text.
Santiago had just bought a new pair of runners and was heading out to his local club in Burntisland. It was half six and the text said it was a 7pm start. Instant decision - step away from the crisps and jump into the running kit. I was out and in the car trying to ignore the rain beating off the window.
It didn't let up and my decision to run was tinged with regret but a commitment is a commitment (unless work gets in the way). The group was about 20 strong which was impressive given the incessant rain. We warmed up with a jog around to the local park and then did 3 sets of intervals and sprints. All good stuff and exactly in accordance with my planned programme.
The company was good, the rain eventually began to settle down to constant drizzle - a good Scottish late summer evening!!
Santiago is good company and on the last sprint I suggest a wee race. We turned at the cone as instructed and raced the 40 metres to the cone accross the park. It wasn't like watching Ussain Bolt maybe his granny as we spinted up to the finish line. Santiago got off to a good start, I positioned myself on his right shoulder ready to attack and break the line. I shouted to let him know I was catching him, I should have kept quiet, he lifted the pace and was gone. I had no chance - he's the man....
I enjoyed the company out running and they seem a great bunch.
I'm hoping the weather will improve. It's time to check the lights out for the bike - the nights are fair drawing in!!
Monday 31 August 2009
Bigman, Big Plans, Big Washout
Since Bigman started his own consultancy company, the banking industry has not celebrated one of its many holidays ......... until today! So it was his plan to make sure he enjoyed the day off which would be a non earning day!
The plan was to rise early and make for Killin and climb over the Ben Lawyers road and drop down to Glen Lyon. A fine coffee shop at the junction was the target for elevenses. And then whizz up to the dam and climb up to the crest of the hill for a picnic lunch overlooking Loch Tay.
The afternoon would be rounded off with a zoom down the other side and back to Killin. This would provide good climbing experiece on the mountain bike.
The plan was pure genius, or at least it would have been but for the precipitation which promised to stay heavy in the west all day! And so a great plan became a damp squib.
Instead, he dealt with mundate administration issues before heading over to Edinburgh to the gym for a couple of hours finishing off with a fine sauna and steam room.
After conversing with an Indian call centre trying to sort out internet access for a couple of hours the session followed by relaxation was welcome. Roll on fee earning work tomorrow!
The plan was to rise early and make for Killin and climb over the Ben Lawyers road and drop down to Glen Lyon. A fine coffee shop at the junction was the target for elevenses. And then whizz up to the dam and climb up to the crest of the hill for a picnic lunch overlooking Loch Tay.
The afternoon would be rounded off with a zoom down the other side and back to Killin. This would provide good climbing experiece on the mountain bike.
The plan was pure genius, or at least it would have been but for the precipitation which promised to stay heavy in the west all day! And so a great plan became a damp squib.
Instead, he dealt with mundate administration issues before heading over to Edinburgh to the gym for a couple of hours finishing off with a fine sauna and steam room.
After conversing with an Indian call centre trying to sort out internet access for a couple of hours the session followed by relaxation was welcome. Roll on fee earning work tomorrow!
Sunday 30 August 2009
I enjoyed this video....
I've just added a link at the side to Transworld Sports coverage of the Cape Epic race - have a look - it gives a good idea of the type of terrain we'll face.....
Saturday 29 August 2009
Carnock Epic - a day to remember....
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The day was mixed with the odd shower blowing in from the west. Wingman and Mrs Wingman turned up early and made themselves busy preparing the barbie area from exposed platt to enclosed kitchen. Amazing what can be done with a tarpaulin and and an excellent practical mind!
The competitors rocked up one by one with Junior 2 arriving at 4pm to make up the full compliment. We talked through the course and I made my way to the start. I was excited and looking forward to the challenge.
Just as I was about to start the rain kicked in - a heavy windy shower. My initial enthusiasm was dampened when I failed to cleat in and almost fell off! Anyway I struggled over the first couple of km. The wind was blowing hard and I felt pretty heavy legged. It was a start that made me think I wish I'd warmed up and got my breathing sorted out.
Once I got around the corner I settled down on to my tri bars and got my legs moving. I felt good and reached the first corner in a record time for me. The section through to Forestmill was a joy. I was tucked down and flying along with the speedo staying mostly above 35kmh - I was nervous that I'd gone too fast too soon. As I turned on to the Clackmannan road I was sure that I would last.
The roads were wet but felt pretty safe so I pushed hard to the turn on to the cycle path. The rain had the advantage of keeping the dog walkers at home so I got a free run. About a km from the end of the cycle track, bang, my rear tyre was blown. I screamed at the skys...what to do...
I decided to stop and have a quick look. The tyre was flat but it was holding onto the rim so I decided to risk it and carry on. I had to slow right down and try to keep the tyre on the rim. At the end of the track I jumped off the bike and carried the bike up to the bridge - after a quick assessment I jumped back on the bike and eased my way up the Col - the hill to the finish was painfully slow as I was worried about wrecking the wheel.
I'd finished. Mrs Wingman and waverider were logging the times so after a brief chat I was off to shower and start on the food - the food was in excellent hands and everything was in control.
The whole event has been fab. Junior coming down from Aberdeen. Meeting Junior 2 and his wife and the post race craic was excellent. Great food, a couple of beers and good chat with fab friends. It was a cracking day!
A big thanks to all who turned up, wingman for taking the excellent photo's and looking after the food. Mrs Wingman and Mrs Bigman for helping out on everything from timing to food.
Same date next year....
The Inaugural International Col du Carnock meeting
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It was billed as the cycling event of the year and so it turned out to be. Thrills, spills, skids and blowouts,the inaugural International col du Carnock meet had it all.
Nine budding cyclists all vying for the 'Yellow Jersey of Carnock'. As if to remind the guys about their roots, the rain showered everyone as the Ironman kicked down on the pedals as the first man out. Team Turtle were represented first by The Doc and subsequently by The Duracell. They should both be proud of their times. Team Turtle may soon have a new members welocme sign if this pair continue to speed around time trials like today. Junior I and JuniorII made a big splash on the scene demonstrating youthful enthusiasm. Junior II taking a spill and ripping his jumper. It was only moments before the start he mentioned we would like a new one with pockets. Coincidence?? Junior I fresh from racing sheep around the fields of Aberdeenshire, came home to a podium finish of 2nd showing he has lost none of his pace since moving to the far north. It was great to have him in the line up.
Santiago clearly drained from his fantastic time in the London Triathlon struggled with the pressure from the high quality field, nevertheless finished strongly. The Fit One kept up a cracking pace consistently around the course, despite being unfortunate in arriving at junctions and being held up by cars.
Bigman struggled against the windy conditions however managed to pick up time on the cycle track with a steady 32kph the full distance unbeleivably coming home marginally in front of Little Bigman some 30 years his younger but still massively fit. Perhaps the wind also did not suit his light and fleat of foot frame.
The Yellow Jersey for the 2009 International col du Carnock meet goes to The Ironman. Having blasted around the 20 mile course, he got a puncture just two mile before the finish line. His focus and determination meant he just cycled on including the ascend of the Col du Carnock itself before crossing the line in sub one hour. What a cracking time.. As the New Zealand comentator says, He is the Ironman
When all said and done the end positions do not matter. What we experienced today, was a group of friends and families across all age spectrum from the expected but not yet arrived and up to the age of Bigman, enjoying friendship in a small town in Fife.
A big thanks to Fett Images for teh photography and to the Wingman for his barbeque and logistics management. Top gun!
Bigman passes late fitness test
Bigman went out for a 40 mile spin this morning with Mrs Bigman as part of his late fitness test for The International Col du Carnock meet later this afternoon. The time was originally set in order to attract a global television deal however the company that they had thought would be very interested have yet to return the guys phone call.
Bigman and Mrs Bigman sped up over Col du Cleish and up to lochleven's larder for a fine cup of Earl Grey and a helping of carbs in the form of summer berry pie.
Then it was head down and into a ferocious wind along to the base of Col du Cleish and back over the steep side of the col.
It is likely there will be no records set this afternoon with such a stong wind. The guys on aerobars will have an advantage, but will they have the power in the legs?
Only time will tell but the Bigman will be there!
Watch this space!
Bigman and Mrs Bigman sped up over Col du Cleish and up to lochleven's larder for a fine cup of Earl Grey and a helping of carbs in the form of summer berry pie.
Then it was head down and into a ferocious wind along to the base of Col du Cleish and back over the steep side of the col.
It is likely there will be no records set this afternoon with such a stong wind. The guys on aerobars will have an advantage, but will they have the power in the legs?
Only time will tell but the Bigman will be there!
Watch this space!
Thursday 27 August 2009
Carnock Epic - Route Announced!
The route starts at my house in Carnock, takes the first left up to Saline, left again at the golf course, follow the left fork to Forestmill, left again on to the main road, a very careful right turn through the car park and on to the Clackmannan road, right on to the bike path, right back on to the road at the Carnock turn off, up the Col De Carnock and stop at the pub car park. 31.4km.
The draw is to be made tomorrow evening.
Hopefully the bigman's ankle has recovered and he will be flying as usual.
Wednesday 26 August 2009
Bigman beaten by treadmill ..........
As part of his tapering to the International Col du Carnock meet at the weekend, Bigman opted for another indoor session at the Gym. A series of weights, and the obligatory 100 sit ups had set him up well for teh 20 minutes on the treadmill.
All was going well with a comfortable pace at 8mph. He decided to step up the pace to 10mph for a minute and then it happened. With greater ease than an Arsenal dive in teh penalty box, Bigman flipped his ankle as he pushed down and the pain shot up his leg. This was not a good feeling.
He retired to the sauna to apply some heat treatment however the prognosis is not good. With slight swelling to the ankle, participation at this weekends International col du Carnock meet is in serious jeopardy.
He will need to rest the ankle from exercise, however, will use the time wisely to build his hydration at a re-union of last years Lejog 62.5 hour epic adventure on Friday night.
A late fitness test will be taken on Saturday morning. The Fit One has already lengthened the Bigman's odds. A friend in need ...........
All was going well with a comfortable pace at 8mph. He decided to step up the pace to 10mph for a minute and then it happened. With greater ease than an Arsenal dive in teh penalty box, Bigman flipped his ankle as he pushed down and the pain shot up his leg. This was not a good feeling.
He retired to the sauna to apply some heat treatment however the prognosis is not good. With slight swelling to the ankle, participation at this weekends International col du Carnock meet is in serious jeopardy.
He will need to rest the ankle from exercise, however, will use the time wisely to build his hydration at a re-union of last years Lejog 62.5 hour epic adventure on Friday night.
A late fitness test will be taken on Saturday morning. The Fit One has already lengthened the Bigman's odds. A friend in need ...........
Tuesday 25 August 2009
12 mile run
I travelled up to Thurso this morning - it was a beautiful drive. The drive through Sutherland up the east coast is a joy.
When I arrived, after being cooped up in the car for 5 and a bit hours, I decided to nip out for a run. Having done the race on Saturday i missed my long slow run for the week. So I set off from the hotel in Scrabster and headed into Thurso - it was sunny, warm and windy. In many ways perfect for running (apart from the strong wind).
I decided to stop at 12 miles - long enough for the day and done in a reasonable time.
Might be time to taper for the epic weekend.....
The final line up was released to the excitment of the press at the weekend - possibly more headline contenders than the latest line up for Strictly Come Dancing....
When I arrived, after being cooped up in the car for 5 and a bit hours, I decided to nip out for a run. Having done the race on Saturday i missed my long slow run for the week. So I set off from the hotel in Scrabster and headed into Thurso - it was sunny, warm and windy. In many ways perfect for running (apart from the strong wind).
I decided to stop at 12 miles - long enough for the day and done in a reasonable time.
Might be time to taper for the epic weekend.....
The final line up was released to the excitment of the press at the weekend - possibly more headline contenders than the latest line up for Strictly Come Dancing....
Monday 24 August 2009
Bigman turns up the training regime
After a relaxing day off yesterday, except for 60 minute gave of 5 a side footie, Bigman returned to the training regime today with a 2 hour session in the gym.
A five o'clock start to take number one daughter to teh airport enabled a return via Edinburgh in teh evening to re-visit the gym.
20 minutes on the weights for upper body strength ( which hurt a lot after saturday), 20 minutes on the treadmill, followed by 20 minutes on the step machine, rounded off by 100 sit ups and 40 bench presses. He had earned the Sauna and Steam room that followed.
Training can be tough however ,it has its rewards.
Before Saturday, Bigman thought the training was on schedule. The stamina is there however much more needs to be done on the mountain bike and upper body strength.
Seven months to go. Not forgeting the fever pitch excitement for the Col du Carnock International Meet on this Saturday. If you are driving in Fife this weekend, best avoid the cycle track, it may be crowded.
A five o'clock start to take number one daughter to teh airport enabled a return via Edinburgh in teh evening to re-visit the gym.
20 minutes on the weights for upper body strength ( which hurt a lot after saturday), 20 minutes on the treadmill, followed by 20 minutes on the step machine, rounded off by 100 sit ups and 40 bench presses. He had earned the Sauna and Steam room that followed.
Training can be tough however ,it has its rewards.
Before Saturday, Bigman thought the training was on schedule. The stamina is there however much more needs to be done on the mountain bike and upper body strength.
Seven months to go. Not forgeting the fever pitch excitement for the Col du Carnock International Meet on this Saturday. If you are driving in Fife this weekend, best avoid the cycle track, it may be crowded.
Getting on my nerves
The visit to the Doc proved inconclusive....
My hand has improved as time has passed and the Doc advised the problem is either:
1 A nerve at my neck
2 A nerve that starts at mt elbow
I was re-assured by the Doc when I wandered through the door and his opening shot was 'what damage have you done to yourself this time?'. He was very chatty and wanted to know all about the race and biking. He's another new convert to the sport and is keen to look at turbo trainers so he can, as the fit one would say, stealth training!
Anyway he has referred me to physio. At least because it's a referral I should get it on moonwalkers private health!
Going to run tomorrow - hopefully the weather will hold.
I need to sort out stuff for the inagural Carnock Epic on Saturday. I may have got the starting line up wrong but I think it includes:
Ironman (me)
Bigman
Mrs Bigman
Little Bigman (hope he doesn't smack me for that one!)
Fit One
Santiago
Junior
Junior 2
Duracell
Mrs Duracell
The Doc (Different to the medical Doc)
and I'm not sure about the rest....
Marathon Man?
Anyone who can advice please email me!
The Wingman is the official timekeeper.
Going to be a cracking afternoon.
My hand has improved as time has passed and the Doc advised the problem is either:
1 A nerve at my neck
2 A nerve that starts at mt elbow
I was re-assured by the Doc when I wandered through the door and his opening shot was 'what damage have you done to yourself this time?'. He was very chatty and wanted to know all about the race and biking. He's another new convert to the sport and is keen to look at turbo trainers so he can, as the fit one would say, stealth training!
Anyway he has referred me to physio. At least because it's a referral I should get it on moonwalkers private health!
Going to run tomorrow - hopefully the weather will hold.
I need to sort out stuff for the inagural Carnock Epic on Saturday. I may have got the starting line up wrong but I think it includes:
Ironman (me)
Bigman
Mrs Bigman
Little Bigman (hope he doesn't smack me for that one!)
Fit One
Santiago
Junior
Junior 2
Duracell
Mrs Duracell
The Doc (Different to the medical Doc)
and I'm not sure about the rest....
Marathon Man?
Anyone who can advice please email me!
The Wingman is the official timekeeper.
Going to be a cracking afternoon.
Sunday 23 August 2009
Awesome climbs and scary drops
Just to reiterate the last post. What an awesome day we had yesterday. The whole event was organised by a company called No Fuss and I have to say the day was brilliantly set up. From the moment we arrived and signed in we both felt in good hands.
Bigman stole my race number when he arrived - it caused all sort of confusion but it turned out they thought we were a team not individuals. Anyway with my new number we set off. The climbs were testing but gave us road monkeys the chance to take a few places. Sadly, we lost the places gained on the downhills....
We played cat and mouse with people through the first 50 minutes of the course catching on the uphills, sharing the craic and the getting passed on the downhills.
I suppose yesterday was a learning experience and I think certainly for me I need to focus on the technical side of riding - the roots were a nightmare and I so struggled and went over 3 times. Despite the falls it was great fun.
The Bigman was storming yesterday and really strong. He was immense on the climbs and grew in confidence as the laps went on. It was a shame he snapped his chain - he was consistent in lap times and looked strong, if not midgy eaten at the end.
As he has mentioned I knew I was in trouble in lap 3 - my whole upper body was sore and my arm was getting increasingly numb. By the end of lap 3 I couldn't change gear and braking became more difficult. By the end of lap 4 I called into the medical tent for advice. They told me that they couldn't stop me but if they could they would. Given this was a training event I decided discretion over valour and packed in. Initially I felt rotten about the decision but as the afternoon went on I knew it was the right thing to do.
I think I'll pay a visit to the doc in the morning to find out what is wrong. I had this before I did Ironman NZ - didn't stop me racing and I'm sure that I'll be 100% soon.
Yesterday made me even more aware of the fitness levels I will need to achieve to get what I want out of the Cape Epic - it also built my confidence as I know that we'll be able to do it. I did some calculations based on time, distances and climbs and I think whilst we won't win we will finish.
Bigman is a great team mate. He could have gone quicker without me but every time he got ahead he would slow down and when I caught up he always had a word of encouragement. We shared our thoughts on strategy and agreed a plan for the day - it wasn't difficult, there was no arguments and I don't remember exactly who suggested what but between us we came up with a plan that was working until my arm gave up.
The strength that you get working in a team is also a factor that can't be underestimated and I think that we'll work well together in South Africa.
It's going to be great!
Bigman stole my race number when he arrived - it caused all sort of confusion but it turned out they thought we were a team not individuals. Anyway with my new number we set off. The climbs were testing but gave us road monkeys the chance to take a few places. Sadly, we lost the places gained on the downhills....
We played cat and mouse with people through the first 50 minutes of the course catching on the uphills, sharing the craic and the getting passed on the downhills.
I suppose yesterday was a learning experience and I think certainly for me I need to focus on the technical side of riding - the roots were a nightmare and I so struggled and went over 3 times. Despite the falls it was great fun.
The Bigman was storming yesterday and really strong. He was immense on the climbs and grew in confidence as the laps went on. It was a shame he snapped his chain - he was consistent in lap times and looked strong, if not midgy eaten at the end.
As he has mentioned I knew I was in trouble in lap 3 - my whole upper body was sore and my arm was getting increasingly numb. By the end of lap 3 I couldn't change gear and braking became more difficult. By the end of lap 4 I called into the medical tent for advice. They told me that they couldn't stop me but if they could they would. Given this was a training event I decided discretion over valour and packed in. Initially I felt rotten about the decision but as the afternoon went on I knew it was the right thing to do.
I think I'll pay a visit to the doc in the morning to find out what is wrong. I had this before I did Ironman NZ - didn't stop me racing and I'm sure that I'll be 100% soon.
Yesterday made me even more aware of the fitness levels I will need to achieve to get what I want out of the Cape Epic - it also built my confidence as I know that we'll be able to do it. I did some calculations based on time, distances and climbs and I think whilst we won't win we will finish.
Bigman is a great team mate. He could have gone quicker without me but every time he got ahead he would slow down and when I caught up he always had a word of encouragement. We shared our thoughts on strategy and agreed a plan for the day - it wasn't difficult, there was no arguments and I don't remember exactly who suggested what but between us we came up with a plan that was working until my arm gave up.
The strength that you get working in a team is also a factor that can't be underestimated and I think that we'll work well together in South Africa.
It's going to be great!
Bigman downed in 'tumble dryer' spin
Yesterday was the first experience of real mountain biking since signing up to the Cape Epic Challenge 2010 for Ironman and Bigman. The intro to the blog site talks about them finding out about themselves and yesterday proved the point.
It was a 10 hour endurance race with 10 laps of a course 11 miles long and climbing 1000ft with a mixture of fire block trails, single track trails and technical section tough for the uninitiatated.
The uphill start to the circuit was a breeze for the pair, with some some friendly banter being hurled from other competitors as the pair stormed past on the climb sections. A team of fellow participants going under the name of nae faws, nae b**Z gave us an introduction to a place in Falkirk to have our Cape Epic team kit produced. Their name inspired the Bigman to have 3 spills on his first lap out of 4 for the whole day. It was easy to get sucked into the pace of the downhills, less easy to take control in a corner much tighter than estimated - result = spilling onto the forest floor.
The technical section shook every part of the upper body to pieces. If you enetered the section with trepidation you were spat out like a wimp. It had to be cycled with agression and confidence. Bigman began to master the section after lap 4.
The Ironman had a trapped nerve in his shoulder meaning he had to retire after lap 4 with sense prevailing. He had lost the sensation in his left arm. Bigman continued for another 2 laps when his chain snapped. After 30 minutes acting like a healthy meal for a clan od midgies he was back on teh road. The technical section spilled him on the floor as he lost concentration. With over 60 miles done and more than 600ft climbed over an 8 hour period he decided he had done enough for the day. This trip equalled a day in the saddle on Cape Epic. Bigman felt strong as he finished however the 'tumble dryer' effct on the technical section means he willl need to hone his skills in this area.
In summary, the pair can take confidence on their strength to stay the course with the best albeit around 25% slower than the best.
It was a 10 hour endurance race with 10 laps of a course 11 miles long and climbing 1000ft with a mixture of fire block trails, single track trails and technical section tough for the uninitiatated.
The uphill start to the circuit was a breeze for the pair, with some some friendly banter being hurled from other competitors as the pair stormed past on the climb sections. A team of fellow participants going under the name of nae faws, nae b**Z gave us an introduction to a place in Falkirk to have our Cape Epic team kit produced. Their name inspired the Bigman to have 3 spills on his first lap out of 4 for the whole day. It was easy to get sucked into the pace of the downhills, less easy to take control in a corner much tighter than estimated - result = spilling onto the forest floor.
The technical section shook every part of the upper body to pieces. If you enetered the section with trepidation you were spat out like a wimp. It had to be cycled with agression and confidence. Bigman began to master the section after lap 4.
The Ironman had a trapped nerve in his shoulder meaning he had to retire after lap 4 with sense prevailing. He had lost the sensation in his left arm. Bigman continued for another 2 laps when his chain snapped. After 30 minutes acting like a healthy meal for a clan od midgies he was back on teh road. The technical section spilled him on the floor as he lost concentration. With over 60 miles done and more than 600ft climbed over an 8 hour period he decided he had done enough for the day. This trip equalled a day in the saddle on Cape Epic. Bigman felt strong as he finished however the 'tumble dryer' effct on the technical section means he willl need to hone his skills in this area.
In summary, the pair can take confidence on their strength to stay the course with the best albeit around 25% slower than the best.
Tuesday 18 August 2009
Spin and plod....
It was another grey day in Fife. The rain was on and off all day. Not heavy, just that clammy rain that goes through every rain jacket made.
So I decided to do my spin and bike inside - really whimpy decision.
So not much more to tell. Spin for an hour and run for 30 minutes in the comfort of my own house. Wore a stupid top and managed to chafe a bit of me badly - I won't share which part of me got burned but you can probably guess - I'm hoping summer will start sometime soon....
So I decided to do my spin and bike inside - really whimpy decision.
So not much more to tell. Spin for an hour and run for 30 minutes in the comfort of my own house. Wore a stupid top and managed to chafe a bit of me badly - I won't share which part of me got burned but you can probably guess - I'm hoping summer will start sometime soon....
Monday 17 August 2009
8 Mile.....
8 mile seems to be a common distance at the moment when out running. The Fife weather delayed me. I like to run in the morning. It sets you up for the day and makes you feel that you can take on the world. But this morning it was raining.....again.
It hasn't felt like much of a summer. We were all wearing jackets on Sunday and today the rain was on and off all morning. I suppose we should be grateful as the rain makes Scotland a green and beautiful place. Moonwalker was suggesting the other day that maybe we should get used to mild wet summers - she may have been reading too many environmental papers!
The run tonight wasn't as easy as Saturday. My legs felt heavy to start with and took a while to loosen off. I wanted to stop and just head home but the programme said 1 hour 10 minutes so that was what I had to do. I bought a DAB radio to listen to football while out on longer runs - it works fine closer to dunfermline but is less useful when nearer Oakley. I'm quite pleased with it in any event.
So I finished in 1:08 - happy to have completed the workout and to be home.
I really hope that the weather picks up (if only to cut the grass) so I can get out on the bike for a decent run. The Carnock Epic is 12 days away and I'm pretty certain the boys and girls taking part are training hard and getting ready for the challenge.....
It's going to be a cracker!
It hasn't felt like much of a summer. We were all wearing jackets on Sunday and today the rain was on and off all morning. I suppose we should be grateful as the rain makes Scotland a green and beautiful place. Moonwalker was suggesting the other day that maybe we should get used to mild wet summers - she may have been reading too many environmental papers!
The run tonight wasn't as easy as Saturday. My legs felt heavy to start with and took a while to loosen off. I wanted to stop and just head home but the programme said 1 hour 10 minutes so that was what I had to do. I bought a DAB radio to listen to football while out on longer runs - it works fine closer to dunfermline but is less useful when nearer Oakley. I'm quite pleased with it in any event.
So I finished in 1:08 - happy to have completed the workout and to be home.
I really hope that the weather picks up (if only to cut the grass) so I can get out on the bike for a decent run. The Carnock Epic is 12 days away and I'm pretty certain the boys and girls taking part are training hard and getting ready for the challenge.....
It's going to be a cracker!
Sunday 16 August 2009
The fit one has a hernia but who ate all the pies......
The fit one and bigman picked me up for a short blast round Culross, Kincardine, Forestmill and home. We worked our way through the coastal towns cutting through the strong westerly wind.
The fit one's back inner tube burst out through his tyre at Culross in a hernia sort of way and he had a brief pit stop to fix the ongoing problem. The bigman and I were cutting through the wind like a hot knife through butter unaware of the problem. A brief turn around and the fit one appeared having fixed his wheel like a skilled surgeon.
The fit one and bigman raced up anything resembling an incline. I'm not much of a hill climber and left them to fight out their battle....
I had re-fitted my tri bars in their new position. The bike felt great. I think I've got a bike set up now that will do IMUK next year. I've got it measured up and I'm sure that I finally got my body position correct. Well I hope that I have!
Anyway back to the todays trip. The cafe stop was epic in an altogether unusual way. We weren't exactly welcomed with open arms as we wandered in and ordered our tea and buns. We had disturbed the paper reading. A massive crime! As we left some regulars had arrived, a totally different welcome and service offering! Anyway, following his cake the bigman burst out of his zipped gillet instigating a brief chorus of 'who ate all the pies!' We wondered how the weigh in would go. The record weigh in by the bigman is a great result - the zip sold us a dummy and the skinny one continues the work to get down to his peak racing weight - he's getting there.
It would appear that the upcoming carnock epic has generated a starting line up 14!
Next weekend we are taking part in a 10 hour enduro mountain bike race. Going to be a good test.....
The fit one's back inner tube burst out through his tyre at Culross in a hernia sort of way and he had a brief pit stop to fix the ongoing problem. The bigman and I were cutting through the wind like a hot knife through butter unaware of the problem. A brief turn around and the fit one appeared having fixed his wheel like a skilled surgeon.
The fit one and bigman raced up anything resembling an incline. I'm not much of a hill climber and left them to fight out their battle....
I had re-fitted my tri bars in their new position. The bike felt great. I think I've got a bike set up now that will do IMUK next year. I've got it measured up and I'm sure that I finally got my body position correct. Well I hope that I have!
Anyway back to the todays trip. The cafe stop was epic in an altogether unusual way. We weren't exactly welcomed with open arms as we wandered in and ordered our tea and buns. We had disturbed the paper reading. A massive crime! As we left some regulars had arrived, a totally different welcome and service offering! Anyway, following his cake the bigman burst out of his zipped gillet instigating a brief chorus of 'who ate all the pies!' We wondered how the weigh in would go. The record weigh in by the bigman is a great result - the zip sold us a dummy and the skinny one continues the work to get down to his peak racing weight - he's getting there.
It would appear that the upcoming carnock epic has generated a starting line up 14!
Next weekend we are taking part in a 10 hour enduro mountain bike race. Going to be a good test.....
The Fit One sprints to finish first
After a very wet start to the day, The Fit One, and Bigman, set off for a windswept tour through Kingseat, Keltie and back up to Knockhill junction then down to Saline before heading across to Carnock to meet with The Ironman.
From there, we climbed the Col du Carnock in reverse direction and down to Caineyhill. It was a feisty wind out of teh west all the way out to Clackmannan where teh wind became our friend. Such adjective could not be used to describe the service we received from a corffe shop whose name shall not be published here. Sunday paers are really interesting however best read when you are not at work with customers waiting be served.
The Ironman was feeling good having fitted his tri-bars enabling him to slice through the head on wind. At times Bigman tried to draft behind him, however, it was hopeless. He was so thin, cutting through the air, it was as if he was not here. Perhaps he should be called Marty after the ghost like character from the 70's detective series Randall and Hopkirk.
From there it was a breeze to the metropolis of Saline and back over to Gowkhall. At teh final climb of teh day, The Fit One lay down a challenge for teh final sprint of the day. Biigman pushed hard however it was to no avail. The Fit One maintained his pace and victory was his. Just for today.
After Bigman returned home he raced to teh scales to check for a new record. And there it was. The numbers creamed with delight. 13st 6lbs. a new world personal best!
From there, we climbed the Col du Carnock in reverse direction and down to Caineyhill. It was a feisty wind out of teh west all the way out to Clackmannan where teh wind became our friend. Such adjective could not be used to describe the service we received from a corffe shop whose name shall not be published here. Sunday paers are really interesting however best read when you are not at work with customers waiting be served.
The Ironman was feeling good having fitted his tri-bars enabling him to slice through the head on wind. At times Bigman tried to draft behind him, however, it was hopeless. He was so thin, cutting through the air, it was as if he was not here. Perhaps he should be called Marty after the ghost like character from the 70's detective series Randall and Hopkirk.
From there it was a breeze to the metropolis of Saline and back over to Gowkhall. At teh final climb of teh day, The Fit One lay down a challenge for teh final sprint of the day. Biigman pushed hard however it was to no avail. The Fit One maintained his pace and victory was his. Just for today.
After Bigman returned home he raced to teh scales to check for a new record. And there it was. The numbers creamed with delight. 13st 6lbs. a new world personal best!
Saturday 15 August 2009
Bigman moves to Flyweight
With a fun day to help out at Wellwood, suburbia to Dunfermline, the Saturday cycle was going to have to be at the back end of the day.Just as well really as the weatehr early this morning resembled monsoon weather.
After the sun came out, the fun day with bouncy castles went well. After a challenging week, Bigamn was keen to put in a shift. The Ironman had been out pounding the streets and was unavailable for team selection so it was going to be a solo effort. The wind was quite testy with more bite than The Fit One's sprint.
A day spent in a Corporate lawyers office with in-house catering facilities was not a good warm up for a weekend of exercise. Freshly baked cales am and pm. A healthy dose of minestrone soup followed by Lasagne accompanied by side salad. At least the fresh friuit for pudding was a healthy option. With best of intentions of giving dinner a miss, it seemed a shame to disappoint his daughter when she phoned to consult on the evening meal. And so it ws expected to be a tough shift. And so it came to pass.
Pushing up over Cleish to warm up the muscles before the assault of the Crook of Devon road with wind full frontal. It was not going to be his friend but neither did he deserve friendship with the gluttony which he had enjoyed.
At that point of pain that you start to enjoy the experience, you just push harder safe in the knowledge it is an investment for the Cape Epic.
The return over Mont Veknockhill was not even noticed. As the last cars from the British Touring Car meet at the eponymous race course roared their exhausts, Bigman raced past the queueing cars in his carbonless footprint eco-friendly bike.
48km done in less than 90 mintes. He was motoring.
At the return to the house, he clambered onto the sclaes fully expecting a silent rebuke. It was not to be. The Bigman just got lighter. A new record at 13st 7.25lbs.
The Ironman may not have achieved 13st 9lbs since his school days. The Bigman has not been this weight since birth!
Bring on the Col du Carnock International Meet.
After the sun came out, the fun day with bouncy castles went well. After a challenging week, Bigamn was keen to put in a shift. The Ironman had been out pounding the streets and was unavailable for team selection so it was going to be a solo effort. The wind was quite testy with more bite than The Fit One's sprint.
A day spent in a Corporate lawyers office with in-house catering facilities was not a good warm up for a weekend of exercise. Freshly baked cales am and pm. A healthy dose of minestrone soup followed by Lasagne accompanied by side salad. At least the fresh friuit for pudding was a healthy option. With best of intentions of giving dinner a miss, it seemed a shame to disappoint his daughter when she phoned to consult on the evening meal. And so it ws expected to be a tough shift. And so it came to pass.
Pushing up over Cleish to warm up the muscles before the assault of the Crook of Devon road with wind full frontal. It was not going to be his friend but neither did he deserve friendship with the gluttony which he had enjoyed.
At that point of pain that you start to enjoy the experience, you just push harder safe in the knowledge it is an investment for the Cape Epic.
The return over Mont Veknockhill was not even noticed. As the last cars from the British Touring Car meet at the eponymous race course roared their exhausts, Bigman raced past the queueing cars in his carbonless footprint eco-friendly bike.
48km done in less than 90 mintes. He was motoring.
At the return to the house, he clambered onto the sclaes fully expecting a silent rebuke. It was not to be. The Bigman just got lighter. A new record at 13st 7.25lbs.
The Ironman may not have achieved 13st 9lbs since his school days. The Bigman has not been this weight since birth!
Bring on the Col du Carnock International Meet.
What lies beneath...
It's amazing the range of emotions that go through your mind on a long run. I set off later than I'd hoped because of the chores that I needed to get out of the way. The plan had been to go for a long run, rest for an hour and then head out with Bigman for an hour on the bikes. Because I was late Bigman called to say he was just about to head out as I turned the key in the door. I was pretty knackered so it was probably a wise call to give it a miss.
Anyway back to the run. I'm convinced that you can run as far as you tell your brain you are going to run. If you set out to run 16 miles, like I did today, the last mile is the toughest. Equally if I'd set out on a 5 mile run the final mile would have been equally challenging. Therefore a significant element of any performance must be what is going on in your mind.
I started well, realising after a mile I'd forgotten my water - donkey! So I spent the first few miles considering my options. I'm a camel and don't need huge quantities of water but knew I needed to pick up some en route. I went up to Comrie and then on to Blairhall, down to the bike track and headed back up to Dunfermline. 5 miles back up the track. At some point I decided that I would do 10 miles on the track, then head back up to Blairhall then home. Great plan but no water stops.
I ran well doing equal times for the first and second 8 miles which pleased me. The water problem begun to worry me at 13 miles and I made the decision to stop in the pub in Comrie and the guys in the pub were really great and I stopped for a few second chat as I sunk a pint (of water!)
So I'm happy that I'm in shape and this was borne out by the scales - 13st9pds
I think the last time I was that I was in school......
Anyway back to the run. I'm convinced that you can run as far as you tell your brain you are going to run. If you set out to run 16 miles, like I did today, the last mile is the toughest. Equally if I'd set out on a 5 mile run the final mile would have been equally challenging. Therefore a significant element of any performance must be what is going on in your mind.
I started well, realising after a mile I'd forgotten my water - donkey! So I spent the first few miles considering my options. I'm a camel and don't need huge quantities of water but knew I needed to pick up some en route. I went up to Comrie and then on to Blairhall, down to the bike track and headed back up to Dunfermline. 5 miles back up the track. At some point I decided that I would do 10 miles on the track, then head back up to Blairhall then home. Great plan but no water stops.
I ran well doing equal times for the first and second 8 miles which pleased me. The water problem begun to worry me at 13 miles and I made the decision to stop in the pub in Comrie and the guys in the pub were really great and I stopped for a few second chat as I sunk a pint (of water!)
So I'm happy that I'm in shape and this was borne out by the scales - 13st9pds
I think the last time I was that I was in school......
Friday 14 August 2009
Memories of Alpine training camp - Les Balcons d'Auris
Statistics
Ascent 2925ft
Max gradient 14%
Distance 46km
For the fourth time we ascended the mighty Alp3 d'Huez to lift us up sufficient height to traverse Les BAlcons dAuris. This road ws built in 1902 and clings to teh side of teh rock face as if its very life depended on it............ which it does.
You and the drop are kept apart by a 30 inch high concrete wall. Not very useful if you rare sitting on a bike. It is only one carriageway wide and is the scariest road I have ever cycled along. So much so, that I refusd to travel on the correct side of the road even if a car came along, choosing instead to stop, dismount, and wait for it to pass.
Once again, the scenery was awesome. We have many tremendous photos of cliffhanging, switch backing, steeply descending roads to bore friends and families however this one takes the prize.
We seem to be acclimatising to theclimbs as the ascent of Alpe d'Huez to bend 16, which covers the steepest part appeared effortless and we passed several cyclists on the way.
It was a 3000 ft climb which is half the planned daily climb in South Africa and climbed over a distance of 10km. In Cape Epic we wil be climbing 6000ft over 100km albeit off road.
Although,I don't expect we will be travelling through theaves cut through the mountainside as we were today.
Mrs Bigman in growing in pace. After dropping down to Le Freney, we cruised back to Bourg d'Oisans at an average pace of 36km into a headwind.
we enjoyed a fine cup of coffe in our favourite coffee shop whilst chatting to some 'senior' blokes who had been to Monaco to watch the start of the tour, ticked off Mont Ventoux on the way back up, and had just done Alpe d'Huez.
Another group of teaches from Edinburgh completed the Marmottes at the weekend and quite proudly wore their Marmottes jerseys.
Another great day.
Ascent 2925ft
Max gradient 14%
Distance 46km
For the fourth time we ascended the mighty Alp3 d'Huez to lift us up sufficient height to traverse Les BAlcons dAuris. This road ws built in 1902 and clings to teh side of teh rock face as if its very life depended on it............ which it does.
You and the drop are kept apart by a 30 inch high concrete wall. Not very useful if you rare sitting on a bike. It is only one carriageway wide and is the scariest road I have ever cycled along. So much so, that I refusd to travel on the correct side of the road even if a car came along, choosing instead to stop, dismount, and wait for it to pass.
Once again, the scenery was awesome. We have many tremendous photos of cliffhanging, switch backing, steeply descending roads to bore friends and families however this one takes the prize.
We seem to be acclimatising to theclimbs as the ascent of Alpe d'Huez to bend 16, which covers the steepest part appeared effortless and we passed several cyclists on the way.
It was a 3000 ft climb which is half the planned daily climb in South Africa and climbed over a distance of 10km. In Cape Epic we wil be climbing 6000ft over 100km albeit off road.
Although,I don't expect we will be travelling through theaves cut through the mountainside as we were today.
Mrs Bigman in growing in pace. After dropping down to Le Freney, we cruised back to Bourg d'Oisans at an average pace of 36km into a headwind.
we enjoyed a fine cup of coffe in our favourite coffee shop whilst chatting to some 'senior' blokes who had been to Monaco to watch the start of the tour, ticked off Mont Ventoux on the way back up, and had just done Alpe d'Huez.
Another group of teaches from Edinburgh completed the Marmottes at the weekend and quite proudly wore their Marmottes jerseys.
Another great day.
Thursday 13 August 2009
Wings in my feet....
The boys were out on the bikes - the bigman will post later I suspect!
I set off for a 8 mile run in the late afternoon sun. It had been a full on day at work. Very satisfying but busy so getting out for a run was a real stress buster.
I'm not sure why but for the last few weeks I've been struggling. Every run have been a challenge, motivation has been low and I've been feeling really tired. Today was different. Very different. I felt alive. My shoes felt light, my feet had wings and I felt great.
The plan was to run for just over an hour. It was a warm evening and with some great music in the ipod I set off up to Dunfermline. I have to confess to a hint of jelousy at the guys heading out on the bikes but I was focussed on putting in an excellent session.
The bigman sent me some stuff on excelling last night. Inspirational!
So whilst thinking about the life the universe and everything it came to me how fortunate I've been. Running has provided a new lease of life. I'm fitter than I was 10 years ago which is cool but the running led to biking and biking opened up new friendships.
When I lived in Edinburgh I was a member of a tri club which was good but I never really bonded with the group - I always felt too fat and untri like. We moved over to Fife and I met the Bigman - we were introduced because a mutual friend recognised our shared love of biking. Since then I've got to know the Bigman, Fit One, Santiago, the Doc, Marathon Man, Duracell, Junior and a good few others - relationships and good friends are what makes life special and I'm very grateful I moved to Fife 2 years ago. A good move!
Anyway I finished with a sprint up the last couple of hills inspired by the Bigman's record breaking climb up the Aberdour Ascent! It was cracking run - just under 8 miles in just over an hour with room in the tank.
Happy days.....
I set off for a 8 mile run in the late afternoon sun. It had been a full on day at work. Very satisfying but busy so getting out for a run was a real stress buster.
I'm not sure why but for the last few weeks I've been struggling. Every run have been a challenge, motivation has been low and I've been feeling really tired. Today was different. Very different. I felt alive. My shoes felt light, my feet had wings and I felt great.
The plan was to run for just over an hour. It was a warm evening and with some great music in the ipod I set off up to Dunfermline. I have to confess to a hint of jelousy at the guys heading out on the bikes but I was focussed on putting in an excellent session.
The bigman sent me some stuff on excelling last night. Inspirational!
So whilst thinking about the life the universe and everything it came to me how fortunate I've been. Running has provided a new lease of life. I'm fitter than I was 10 years ago which is cool but the running led to biking and biking opened up new friendships.
When I lived in Edinburgh I was a member of a tri club which was good but I never really bonded with the group - I always felt too fat and untri like. We moved over to Fife and I met the Bigman - we were introduced because a mutual friend recognised our shared love of biking. Since then I've got to know the Bigman, Fit One, Santiago, the Doc, Marathon Man, Duracell, Junior and a good few others - relationships and good friends are what makes life special and I'm very grateful I moved to Fife 2 years ago. A good move!
Anyway I finished with a sprint up the last couple of hills inspired by the Bigman's record breaking climb up the Aberdour Ascent! It was cracking run - just under 8 miles in just over an hour with room in the tank.
Happy days.....
if only ...................
It was a hot steamy night in the Kingdom of Fife and the Fit One was baying for the blood of The Bigman. He had read the news about the 14 stone bouncing up hills and felt this was his night. A 39 inside ring and a few climbs, the king of the mountains was there for the taking.
A mountainous route was chosen over the Col du Cleish and returning via Mont Veknockhill. The twosome would be joined by Junior II who is soon to have a another litle cyclist join his family. Who says Britain is not investing in the futute of cycling!
Their was much chat as the trio breezed up over Cleish. Seemed to be a popular night for fishing up by the loch on top of Cleish with many cars around at the carpark.
It was the return over Mont Veknockhill where the whiff of testorone was in the air. As the team approached the penultimate rise before the final climb to the summit, the Fit One moved to the front easing the pace up at a rate not easily identified. The Bigman tucked in on his wheel enjoying a bit of drafting. The Fit One sensed the strategic gaff and eased off the 'gas' in a non-chalont sort of way. As they arrived at the foot of the final climb, Junior II started to make his move. The Fit One was first to react sensing the danger, he kicked down. The Bigman ambled up along side and gave The Fit One 'The Eye'. The grimace was less obvious than the Ironman at the same spot however the grit and determination was equal. And then the accelaration dissipated with the immortal words 'if only ............ i was on the big cog'.
Bigman may be enjoying a period of supremacy in the climbing discipline however like the swallow in spring, it will pass. However, as the senior member of the group, he is enjoying the summer whilst it lasts!
A mountainous route was chosen over the Col du Cleish and returning via Mont Veknockhill. The twosome would be joined by Junior II who is soon to have a another litle cyclist join his family. Who says Britain is not investing in the futute of cycling!
Their was much chat as the trio breezed up over Cleish. Seemed to be a popular night for fishing up by the loch on top of Cleish with many cars around at the carpark.
It was the return over Mont Veknockhill where the whiff of testorone was in the air. As the team approached the penultimate rise before the final climb to the summit, the Fit One moved to the front easing the pace up at a rate not easily identified. The Bigman tucked in on his wheel enjoying a bit of drafting. The Fit One sensed the strategic gaff and eased off the 'gas' in a non-chalont sort of way. As they arrived at the foot of the final climb, Junior II started to make his move. The Fit One was first to react sensing the danger, he kicked down. The Bigman ambled up along side and gave The Fit One 'The Eye'. The grimace was less obvious than the Ironman at the same spot however the grit and determination was equal. And then the accelaration dissipated with the immortal words 'if only ............ i was on the big cog'.
Bigman may be enjoying a period of supremacy in the climbing discipline however like the swallow in spring, it will pass. However, as the senior member of the group, he is enjoying the summer whilst it lasts!
Wednesday 12 August 2009
Bigmans Baking Blowout
This has been the toughest week so far for the Bigman............. and for all the wrong reasons!
Mrs Bigman decided to do some home baking at the weekend. Monster fruit scones, with three eggs in the mix, and a 'wheel' of millionaire shortcake that was so big The Fit One could use it as a tubeless tyre. well he might have been able to do so on Sunday, but now it would feel like pedalling squares as it has got a serious dent in the circumference! Net result, the Bigman has put on 4 lbs and now literally bouncing over 14 stone. This is not good.
With the late nights caused by the need to work, a change of approach was required. Despite not getting back from the wild west ( Glasgow) until almost 20:00, he did a quick change of suit in a wonder woman sort of way and headed out to do the Fife Alps.
Out through Crossgates, up to the Kirkaldy roundabout and climb over Col du Burntisland without noticing he was still in the big cog. No pain. What hill, he declared to himself. By this time the endorphines were kicking in having spent so much time this week pushing a mouse around a mat! As he shot through the 30mph signs, the camera flashed 39mpm SLOW DOWN. The next climb was along the coastal road to Aberdour. The sun was going down however remained high enough to paint a phenominal backdrop over the firth of Forth onto Edinburgh Castle. You could almost hear the bagpipes playing on the castle esplanade at the edinburgh Military Tattoo.
A couple of fellow cyclists nodded as they flew in the opposite direction. Once in Aberdour, he headed for the Aberdour Ascent. This was to be no time trial. After all, his domestique was not with him to spectate!
Having not been on teh bike for three days, it was surprising the ease with which the pedals turned and teh climb was claimed. Turning left at the Col and the road meanders back down to the main road to the Forth Road Bridge. A burst of speed into a reasonable wind upped the heart rate and wound in Inverkeithing in no time. The next climb was over Col du Masterton past Maison du Fit One and finally over the Mount Garvock to Chez Bigman.
A nice 28 miles in teh bag in a pleasing time. The official time cannot be disclosed with the International Col du Carnock meet just around the corner. However for the Hercule Poirot amongst the 404 blog visitors, the sun had not yet gone down when I returned home.
Apparently a guest appearance at the Col du Carnock is being promised by Junior. Junior is the lesser spotted cyclist from Aberdeenshire. This species hiberbnates between the months of October and May as a consequence of the Cock Bridge to Tomintoul Road being closed due to snow. This road is the main hub in the North East of Scotland. His attendance will, of course, be subject to the Cock Bridge Road being open. :-)
Mrs Bigman decided to do some home baking at the weekend. Monster fruit scones, with three eggs in the mix, and a 'wheel' of millionaire shortcake that was so big The Fit One could use it as a tubeless tyre. well he might have been able to do so on Sunday, but now it would feel like pedalling squares as it has got a serious dent in the circumference! Net result, the Bigman has put on 4 lbs and now literally bouncing over 14 stone. This is not good.
With the late nights caused by the need to work, a change of approach was required. Despite not getting back from the wild west ( Glasgow) until almost 20:00, he did a quick change of suit in a wonder woman sort of way and headed out to do the Fife Alps.
Out through Crossgates, up to the Kirkaldy roundabout and climb over Col du Burntisland without noticing he was still in the big cog. No pain. What hill, he declared to himself. By this time the endorphines were kicking in having spent so much time this week pushing a mouse around a mat! As he shot through the 30mph signs, the camera flashed 39mpm SLOW DOWN. The next climb was along the coastal road to Aberdour. The sun was going down however remained high enough to paint a phenominal backdrop over the firth of Forth onto Edinburgh Castle. You could almost hear the bagpipes playing on the castle esplanade at the edinburgh Military Tattoo.
A couple of fellow cyclists nodded as they flew in the opposite direction. Once in Aberdour, he headed for the Aberdour Ascent. This was to be no time trial. After all, his domestique was not with him to spectate!
Having not been on teh bike for three days, it was surprising the ease with which the pedals turned and teh climb was claimed. Turning left at the Col and the road meanders back down to the main road to the Forth Road Bridge. A burst of speed into a reasonable wind upped the heart rate and wound in Inverkeithing in no time. The next climb was over Col du Masterton past Maison du Fit One and finally over the Mount Garvock to Chez Bigman.
A nice 28 miles in teh bag in a pleasing time. The official time cannot be disclosed with the International Col du Carnock meet just around the corner. However for the Hercule Poirot amongst the 404 blog visitors, the sun had not yet gone down when I returned home.
Apparently a guest appearance at the Col du Carnock is being promised by Junior. Junior is the lesser spotted cyclist from Aberdeenshire. This species hiberbnates between the months of October and May as a consequence of the Cock Bridge to Tomintoul Road being closed due to snow. This road is the main hub in the North East of Scotland. His attendance will, of course, be subject to the Cock Bridge Road being open. :-)
Tuesday 11 August 2009
The road to nowhere....
The treadmill looked ominously big and imposing this morning. I've been a bit tired the last couple of days so decided that rest is always a good option but with the Loch Ness Marathon appearing like a monster on my calander in a few weeks I needed to get back on programme.
Today was marked as a speed session. Me and speed are opposite ends of the training spectrum (especially since I sold my 530i bmw!!). I'm a plodder on the bike or on my feet, a good old plodder. Like one of those toys you once got in crackers at Christmas - wind me up and I can keep going, not fast but keep going, until I fall off the table...
So my intervals were 1 minute at level 1 followed by a minute at level 4 repeated 5 times with 5 minutes at level 2 and all repeated again....confused - it took me a few seconds to work it out but I got started as the birds started the first shout of the morning chorus. It was fine, I watched the news on my newly wall hung telly and did the stuff deciding that level 1 was 7mph, level 2 was 7.5mph and level 4 was 9mph - not quick but quick enough for a fat lad like myself. I stuck to it and completed in about 35 minutes including warm up and warm down. Long enough to start seeing the same news stories repeating on the bbc...
Off the treadmill and straight on to the spin bike. I decided warm up for 5 mins, then a long climb for 30 mins increasing intensity every 5 minutes and then a 10 minute spin out and cool down. The news was well into it's second loop and I was getting a bit bored of it but I'd left the remote on the treadmill and couldn't reach it. In my head I was on Alp D'Heuz. The spin bike will never replace the real thing but I spend the climb trying to work out the restistance I needed to engage on the bike to get same feeling climbing like the Alp - I'll never know and I suppose that mystery will only be sorted by climbing the hill myself and finding it out first hand. The bigman has been up more alpine climbs than Julie Andrews so I'm hoping he might come round and set the resistance at alpine levels so I can do some proper climbing!
I stuck to the task increasing the restance every 5 minutes making each pedal turn tougher and tougher. In a sense I'm flying by wire with some of my personal training techniques - I have a feeling that working tired muscles will aid development but I've got absolutely no scientific base for this Macca (me) logic!
Moonwalker is walking like spotty dog after an evening on the Pentlands and waverider is basking in a good performance on the cricket pitch this evening despite ultimate defeat - a wee bit like being Freddie Flintstone in the England team!!!!
A good days training all round......
Today was marked as a speed session. Me and speed are opposite ends of the training spectrum (especially since I sold my 530i bmw!!). I'm a plodder on the bike or on my feet, a good old plodder. Like one of those toys you once got in crackers at Christmas - wind me up and I can keep going, not fast but keep going, until I fall off the table...
So my intervals were 1 minute at level 1 followed by a minute at level 4 repeated 5 times with 5 minutes at level 2 and all repeated again....confused - it took me a few seconds to work it out but I got started as the birds started the first shout of the morning chorus. It was fine, I watched the news on my newly wall hung telly and did the stuff deciding that level 1 was 7mph, level 2 was 7.5mph and level 4 was 9mph - not quick but quick enough for a fat lad like myself. I stuck to it and completed in about 35 minutes including warm up and warm down. Long enough to start seeing the same news stories repeating on the bbc...
Off the treadmill and straight on to the spin bike. I decided warm up for 5 mins, then a long climb for 30 mins increasing intensity every 5 minutes and then a 10 minute spin out and cool down. The news was well into it's second loop and I was getting a bit bored of it but I'd left the remote on the treadmill and couldn't reach it. In my head I was on Alp D'Heuz. The spin bike will never replace the real thing but I spend the climb trying to work out the restistance I needed to engage on the bike to get same feeling climbing like the Alp - I'll never know and I suppose that mystery will only be sorted by climbing the hill myself and finding it out first hand. The bigman has been up more alpine climbs than Julie Andrews so I'm hoping he might come round and set the resistance at alpine levels so I can do some proper climbing!
I stuck to the task increasing the restance every 5 minutes making each pedal turn tougher and tougher. In a sense I'm flying by wire with some of my personal training techniques - I have a feeling that working tired muscles will aid development but I've got absolutely no scientific base for this Macca (me) logic!
Moonwalker is walking like spotty dog after an evening on the Pentlands and waverider is basking in a good performance on the cricket pitch this evening despite ultimate defeat - a wee bit like being Freddie Flintstone in the England team!!!!
A good days training all round......
Monday 10 August 2009
Bigman cycles without a hair out of place
It was almost a perfect day. No wind, no clouds, and no need for Bigman to wear the winter clothes. The only thing missing was the Ironman.
The Fit One and Bigman romped up over Mont Veknockhill and down the other side with Bigman having hardly a hair out of place, it was so still!
Next mild ascent was the psychological mole hill that defeats the Fit One every time, up to the metropolis of Yetts of Muchart.
From there it was into the tuck position and blast off an average speed of 40km per hour. The fayre at Loch Leven's larder is amongst the finest in Tayside and more than enough to encourage you along especially on such a fantastic summer's day.
After a carb induced summer fruit pie, without ice cream, ( due to the lack of bad influence from Duracell) the pair ploughed their way back via the RSBC centre an through Keltie Bridge.
A great 40 mile outing set up the guys for the second match of the day Caley vs Dunfie
The Fit One and Bigman romped up over Mont Veknockhill and down the other side with Bigman having hardly a hair out of place, it was so still!
Next mild ascent was the psychological mole hill that defeats the Fit One every time, up to the metropolis of Yetts of Muchart.
From there it was into the tuck position and blast off an average speed of 40km per hour. The fayre at Loch Leven's larder is amongst the finest in Tayside and more than enough to encourage you along especially on such a fantastic summer's day.
After a carb induced summer fruit pie, without ice cream, ( due to the lack of bad influence from Duracell) the pair ploughed their way back via the RSBC centre an through Keltie Bridge.
A great 40 mile outing set up the guys for the second match of the day Caley vs Dunfie
Saturday 8 August 2009
Great start to the new season....
What a fab day!
The bigman biked with the Fit One - he'll tell the story no doubt! Anyway to the more important story of the day....
Caley were relagated from the SPL at the end of last season, sadly. Today the new season started. Dunfermline away or at home for me. This was to be a massive day. Mr and Mrs Bigman were attending their first Caley game and were possibly about to see the best game ever along with myself and waverider. As it transpired it was a cracker. Caley won with a late strike - Bigman and mrs might have to go to every game now. They have seen the best and are officially Caley fans....
Maybe...
I went out for a wee jog as well and knocked off another day of the training plan for the Loch Ness Marathon - a 14 miler done and dusted. Another pound lost in the battle of the bulge....
The bigman biked with the Fit One - he'll tell the story no doubt! Anyway to the more important story of the day....
Caley were relagated from the SPL at the end of last season, sadly. Today the new season started. Dunfermline away or at home for me. This was to be a massive day. Mr and Mrs Bigman were attending their first Caley game and were possibly about to see the best game ever along with myself and waverider. As it transpired it was a cracker. Caley won with a late strike - Bigman and mrs might have to go to every game now. They have seen the best and are officially Caley fans....
Maybe...
I went out for a wee jog as well and knocked off another day of the training plan for the Loch Ness Marathon - a 14 miler done and dusted. Another pound lost in the battle of the bulge....
Top domestique leads Bigman to climbing success....
It was a fab summer's night on Thursday and I felt I should give the view from behind....
The climb was a classic. We'd hardly started when the Bigman shouted 'we're going too slow' - I responded 'go on then....' in an encouraging sort of way - misunderstood by the bigman as grumpiness! (You never know he might have been right!) - and with that he was off.
Like any excellent coach I'd built the bigman up during the day. A text in the morning to put him in a positive frame of mind, a call before we met to check he was feeling Olympic and a short but immaculate lead out. It may not have been as long a lead out as anticipated, I was supposed to get to the house but sadly I made it about 50 yards to the corner. When the bigman passed my originally planned handover point I did shout 'Go on bigman, you're on your own from here on!' - well he was on his own anyway but I hoped the words would encourage.
This is a bit of role reversal for the bigman who normally is the one shepherding the flock of cyclists round the hills of Fife, encouraging anyone struggling on the climbs and leading the peloton in the wind.
Whether it was my superb coaching and encouraging words or just my sheer presence that produced excellence I don't know but the effort and speed was impressive and we celebrated the bigmans success at the top. A new target has been set. I for one will be going for it each and every time I'm out on the hill. I love a challenge.
The bigman holds, rightfully, the Maillot jaune (yellow jersey) and he deserves it after the volume and quality of training he has completed. It's most definitely not about the bike.
He's an inspiration.........
To us youngsters!!!
The climb was a classic. We'd hardly started when the Bigman shouted 'we're going too slow' - I responded 'go on then....' in an encouraging sort of way - misunderstood by the bigman as grumpiness! (You never know he might have been right!) - and with that he was off.
Like any excellent coach I'd built the bigman up during the day. A text in the morning to put him in a positive frame of mind, a call before we met to check he was feeling Olympic and a short but immaculate lead out. It may not have been as long a lead out as anticipated, I was supposed to get to the house but sadly I made it about 50 yards to the corner. When the bigman passed my originally planned handover point I did shout 'Go on bigman, you're on your own from here on!' - well he was on his own anyway but I hoped the words would encourage.
This is a bit of role reversal for the bigman who normally is the one shepherding the flock of cyclists round the hills of Fife, encouraging anyone struggling on the climbs and leading the peloton in the wind.
Whether it was my superb coaching and encouraging words or just my sheer presence that produced excellence I don't know but the effort and speed was impressive and we celebrated the bigmans success at the top. A new target has been set. I for one will be going for it each and every time I'm out on the hill. I love a challenge.
The bigman holds, rightfully, the Maillot jaune (yellow jersey) and he deserves it after the volume and quality of training he has completed. It's most definitely not about the bike.
He's an inspiration.........
To us youngsters!!!
Thursday 6 August 2009
Alberto takes on Lance in Fife mountain stage
It was billed as the big event of the week in Fife. Ironman would be 'domestique' and explode with power to lead Bigman up the Aberdour Ascent until the last few hundred yards leaving him to blast past up the climb and set a new personal record.
In the end it was more like a damp squib than an explosion. After two hundred yards, Bigman demanded more speed, to which the Ironman responded 'on you go'! When they re-grouped at the top of the ascent, Ironman was already re-writing history with an enquiry as to whether his shouts of encouragement had aided Bigman. A lack of oxygen had meant that Ironman had recounted it as 'Gon yersel, Bigman'.
It sounded like a repeat of the Alberto vs Lance battle of this year's tour. Who was to be on the podium tonight. Having agreed to be a domestique, after 200 yards the scene was changing. He confessed to thinking at one point he might catch up with the Bigman.
Images flashed through the head of Bigman. Picture the scene, Armstrong intent on a stage win on Alpe d'Huez in 2001. His domestique is ready and poised to help climb the infamous 21 hairpin bends. The scene is set. They approach the climb after having cycled 100 miles. The domestique is in front of Lance at the start of the climb. After the first bend, bend 21, the domestique shouts 'gon yersel Bigman'. I don't think so .
The signs were not good from the start when Ironman tucked in to draft behind Bigman along the straight stretch before arriving at the climb.
Perhaps it was the aura of the Ironman, perhaps it was the competitve spirit, or perhaps it was an explosive start by the Ironman. What ever the reason, Bigman has set a new personal best at 3 minutes and 51 seconds. The first time he has beaten 4 minutes ................. and there is more gas in the tank.
He has committed to beating that record before the end of the season however no new taregt has been publicised. You will hear it in an exclusive here first!
PS And teh Ironman also set a new PB at 4:13 helping' the Bigman. But then, that happens every year in the Tour!
In the end it was more like a damp squib than an explosion. After two hundred yards, Bigman demanded more speed, to which the Ironman responded 'on you go'! When they re-grouped at the top of the ascent, Ironman was already re-writing history with an enquiry as to whether his shouts of encouragement had aided Bigman. A lack of oxygen had meant that Ironman had recounted it as 'Gon yersel, Bigman'.
It sounded like a repeat of the Alberto vs Lance battle of this year's tour. Who was to be on the podium tonight. Having agreed to be a domestique, after 200 yards the scene was changing. He confessed to thinking at one point he might catch up with the Bigman.
Images flashed through the head of Bigman. Picture the scene, Armstrong intent on a stage win on Alpe d'Huez in 2001. His domestique is ready and poised to help climb the infamous 21 hairpin bends. The scene is set. They approach the climb after having cycled 100 miles. The domestique is in front of Lance at the start of the climb. After the first bend, bend 21, the domestique shouts 'gon yersel Bigman'. I don't think so .
The signs were not good from the start when Ironman tucked in to draft behind Bigman along the straight stretch before arriving at the climb.
Perhaps it was the aura of the Ironman, perhaps it was the competitve spirit, or perhaps it was an explosive start by the Ironman. What ever the reason, Bigman has set a new personal best at 3 minutes and 51 seconds. The first time he has beaten 4 minutes ................. and there is more gas in the tank.
He has committed to beating that record before the end of the season however no new taregt has been publicised. You will hear it in an exclusive here first!
PS And teh Ironman also set a new PB at 4:13 helping' the Bigman. But then, that happens every year in the Tour!
Tuesday 4 August 2009
Who is that man in the Iron mask?
It was a balmy summer's evening and a great night to get out on the bike for a blast. Having travelled back from Glasgow where it was raining when Bigman left, he decide to shove on the winter jacket just in case however stopped short of full winter longs. That would be taking things too far!
With the Fit One missing tonight, it wasthe role of the Bigman to run the red lights at quiet roadworks......but he was not as lucky, and a Ford Fiesta shared his disappointment with the Ironman who agreed with the driver and denied we were out together........ teamwork?
The climb over Col du Cleish was effortless and we moved in sprint mode along to Powmill. It was a stiff wind however taking turns at the front of the peleton ( of 2) meant we could hold up a healthy pace all the way to the Mont Veknochill junction.
As we climbed, effortlessly, we discussed the upcoming Mountain bike endurance meeting in Moray. Apparently it is hard on a certain part of one's anatomy. Sudacream, an essential for the first aid kit apparently.
As we approached the final stage of the climb, the stench of testorone in the air emanating from the Ironman was pungent. His gaze was fixed, his eyes steely, and his mind racing faster than his legs could carry him. Bigman stared across as if in suspended animation. Like the roadrunner and the Kayote in the kids cartoon. As he attempted to hide the grimace in the Lance Armstrong sort of poker face, he slowly became aware of the beaming mugshot of Bigman looking across 12 inches of tarmac and microscopicly studying the the steely look, like David Bellamy discovering a new insect.
And then the focus was broken, followed by rapturous laughter that made his pace reduce to about 15kph in an instant.
And then he uttered the immortal words that can only mean trouble for Bigman in the future. I will come back another day ................... be afraid, be very afraid. And so it came to pass, Bigman was very afraid.
With the Fit One missing tonight, it wasthe role of the Bigman to run the red lights at quiet roadworks......but he was not as lucky, and a Ford Fiesta shared his disappointment with the Ironman who agreed with the driver and denied we were out together........ teamwork?
The climb over Col du Cleish was effortless and we moved in sprint mode along to Powmill. It was a stiff wind however taking turns at the front of the peleton ( of 2) meant we could hold up a healthy pace all the way to the Mont Veknochill junction.
As we climbed, effortlessly, we discussed the upcoming Mountain bike endurance meeting in Moray. Apparently it is hard on a certain part of one's anatomy. Sudacream, an essential for the first aid kit apparently.
As we approached the final stage of the climb, the stench of testorone in the air emanating from the Ironman was pungent. His gaze was fixed, his eyes steely, and his mind racing faster than his legs could carry him. Bigman stared across as if in suspended animation. Like the roadrunner and the Kayote in the kids cartoon. As he attempted to hide the grimace in the Lance Armstrong sort of poker face, he slowly became aware of the beaming mugshot of Bigman looking across 12 inches of tarmac and microscopicly studying the the steely look, like David Bellamy discovering a new insect.
And then the focus was broken, followed by rapturous laughter that made his pace reduce to about 15kph in an instant.
And then he uttered the immortal words that can only mean trouble for Bigman in the future. I will come back another day ................... be afraid, be very afraid. And so it came to pass, Bigman was very afraid.
Shiney happy bigman.....
Oh what a night......
I sent the bigman a text at lunchtime to find out his plans for this evening. So I pedalled over to Chez Bigman for 7pm and we set off into a balmy summer evening. The bigman sporting his winter jacket - handily a sweat jacket in the summer. The sauna bike rider is training like a boxer struggling to get down to his fighting weight! I'm really hoping the jacket gets a wash sooner rather than later!
The climb up through Townhill was easy on the new gears. The bigman led the way and we caught up on the weekend news. At the roadworks at the top of the hill the bigman followed the Fit One's green cross code and blasted through a slightly ungreen light - sadly I got held by an oncoming car the driver of which is no doubt discussing the state of the Fife cycle community......The bigman was off like a shot leaving me to face the wrath of the trog....
The climb to the top of Cleish passed easily and we crested in well under 30 minutes.
We turned into the wind towards Powmill and set up a train, sharing the wind and keeping up a pace of around 35kph - it was a hard stretch but very rewarding as we turned back towards Dunfermline happy with the effort. We got a nod of respect from the Stirling Tri boys out on their Tuesday night training set as we powered into the wind.
Cycling with the bigman you don't need to ask him to take over, he just knows and we cycle in harmony.
Turning towards knockhill the pace slowed slightly and we chatted once more about the bikes, future plans and the upcoming mountain bike challenge. We're doing a 10 hour continuous race in the next few weeks - should be a blast.
Anyway the final climb made for one final chance to show who was boss. I was truly undone. I was out of my seat straining every sinew when the bigman cruised up beside me, seated and cruising. I glanced over to see his shiny happy face smiling back at me. It cracked me up! Brilliant!
We parted at the bottom of the hill and I turned towards Saline happy with my nights training. 50km done at good pace - real good training session....
The bigman's domestique has a full day's rest before leading him out Cavendish style to what will be a new Aberdour Ascent record - he can't fail with an Ironman lead out can he.........
If he can get past......
I sent the bigman a text at lunchtime to find out his plans for this evening. So I pedalled over to Chez Bigman for 7pm and we set off into a balmy summer evening. The bigman sporting his winter jacket - handily a sweat jacket in the summer. The sauna bike rider is training like a boxer struggling to get down to his fighting weight! I'm really hoping the jacket gets a wash sooner rather than later!
The climb up through Townhill was easy on the new gears. The bigman led the way and we caught up on the weekend news. At the roadworks at the top of the hill the bigman followed the Fit One's green cross code and blasted through a slightly ungreen light - sadly I got held by an oncoming car the driver of which is no doubt discussing the state of the Fife cycle community......The bigman was off like a shot leaving me to face the wrath of the trog....
The climb to the top of Cleish passed easily and we crested in well under 30 minutes.
We turned into the wind towards Powmill and set up a train, sharing the wind and keeping up a pace of around 35kph - it was a hard stretch but very rewarding as we turned back towards Dunfermline happy with the effort. We got a nod of respect from the Stirling Tri boys out on their Tuesday night training set as we powered into the wind.
Cycling with the bigman you don't need to ask him to take over, he just knows and we cycle in harmony.
Turning towards knockhill the pace slowed slightly and we chatted once more about the bikes, future plans and the upcoming mountain bike challenge. We're doing a 10 hour continuous race in the next few weeks - should be a blast.
Anyway the final climb made for one final chance to show who was boss. I was truly undone. I was out of my seat straining every sinew when the bigman cruised up beside me, seated and cruising. I glanced over to see his shiny happy face smiling back at me. It cracked me up! Brilliant!
We parted at the bottom of the hill and I turned towards Saline happy with my nights training. 50km done at good pace - real good training session....
The bigman's domestique has a full day's rest before leading him out Cavendish style to what will be a new Aberdour Ascent record - he can't fail with an Ironman lead out can he.........
If he can get past......
Monday 3 August 2009
Bigman exam results exclusive .......... could do better!
With The Fit One and Ironman going out for a mid-day spin whilst the Bigman sweated blood in the office, he knew he would have to get a shift in to tonight to keep his finely honed climbing capacity tip top.
He invented his own Fife version of teh Vaujanay Alpine Sportif. A wee 28 mile circuit climbing the Col du Dalgety, sprinting down to Aberdour and back through the back road to climb the Aberdour Ascent.
It may have been the recently and hastily consumed pasta, it may have been too many climbs too soon, or it may even have been his gears on the Battaglin, whatever the cause he failed to beat his personal best on the Aberdour Ascent , crossing the line in 4mins: 10. He knows he could have taken more pain and can have confidence .................. it will be done!
He invented his own Fife version of teh Vaujanay Alpine Sportif. A wee 28 mile circuit climbing the Col du Dalgety, sprinting down to Aberdour and back through the back road to climb the Aberdour Ascent.
It may have been the recently and hastily consumed pasta, it may have been too many climbs too soon, or it may even have been his gears on the Battaglin, whatever the cause he failed to beat his personal best on the Aberdour Ascent , crossing the line in 4mins: 10. He knows he could have taken more pain and can have confidence .................. it will be done!
Sting in the tail.....
The day started brightly - sun rising in the east, warmer than of late and a day working at home which equals an hour out on the bike at lunchtime....
The fit one turned up and we set off after I'd removed the loose and ill fitted tri bars. The aim was to do a fast circuit of the Carnock Epic route. The benefits of the compact chainset are beginning to pay off as I felt strong and climbed the hill to Saline with ease and fast! We turned the left and flew down the hill as the rain began to start. I'm fairly convinced that the bigman is the rainking and seems to generate a good sprinkling of the stuff every time he comes out with me. In Aviemore, heavy showers were forecast but with no bigman present there was no rain.....
Anyway, with the fit one struggling to see through his rain spattered shades we turned off towards Forestmill. Speed was good but as it turned out not fast enough to avoid a wasp, a sharp yell from the fit one heralded the sting - on the kneecap. We stopped. The clock stopped and the dream of a fast run was dashed. We set off with the fit one rubbing his wounds.
The rain turned really heavy but we soldiered on deciding not to take the short cut - a huge temptation. At the turn we were behind time but we had stopped....
The cycle path was a long drag, the wind seemed to have turned and we seemed to be fighting a head wind. Our pace slowed slightly as time passed quickly. We discussed gear ratio's and cadence - not hugely exciting but interesting if you bike. There is a definite efficiency ratio that I'm still working out. How do you get the best out of your leg strength to maintain the highest speed....
The final turn took us up the Col Du Carnock - a breeze with my new gearing. The fit one laboured behind only to discover that his brakes were faulty and had gripped the wheel - maximum effort and a great training tip!
So we finished 66 minutes - less the time stopped for the sting. A good days work done.
Tomorrow I need to run and probably spin....
The fit one turned up and we set off after I'd removed the loose and ill fitted tri bars. The aim was to do a fast circuit of the Carnock Epic route. The benefits of the compact chainset are beginning to pay off as I felt strong and climbed the hill to Saline with ease and fast! We turned the left and flew down the hill as the rain began to start. I'm fairly convinced that the bigman is the rainking and seems to generate a good sprinkling of the stuff every time he comes out with me. In Aviemore, heavy showers were forecast but with no bigman present there was no rain.....
Anyway, with the fit one struggling to see through his rain spattered shades we turned off towards Forestmill. Speed was good but as it turned out not fast enough to avoid a wasp, a sharp yell from the fit one heralded the sting - on the kneecap. We stopped. The clock stopped and the dream of a fast run was dashed. We set off with the fit one rubbing his wounds.
The rain turned really heavy but we soldiered on deciding not to take the short cut - a huge temptation. At the turn we were behind time but we had stopped....
The cycle path was a long drag, the wind seemed to have turned and we seemed to be fighting a head wind. Our pace slowed slightly as time passed quickly. We discussed gear ratio's and cadence - not hugely exciting but interesting if you bike. There is a definite efficiency ratio that I'm still working out. How do you get the best out of your leg strength to maintain the highest speed....
The final turn took us up the Col Du Carnock - a breeze with my new gearing. The fit one laboured behind only to discover that his brakes were faulty and had gripped the wheel - maximum effort and a great training tip!
So we finished 66 minutes - less the time stopped for the sting. A good days work done.
Tomorrow I need to run and probably spin....
Sunday 2 August 2009
The Fit One in a sweat?
It was billed as a nice Sunday afternoon 'stroll in the park'. The strong westerly made the run anything but. Bigman and The Fit One, fresh from their punctured egos yesterday, made for the hills, Col du Cleish, a sprint along to Powmill, and back over Mont Veknockhill.
A sub 30 minute climb to the Col du Cleish was easily achieved and then a tuck position down to the road to Crook of Devon. The Fit One was pushing hard into the wind with each rider wanting to take the wind face on to build stamina for the Internetiona Col du Carnock meeting at the end of August. The field is building with some participants actually having relatives overseas (Northern Ireland)
By the time the duo stopped for coffee at the Milkbar in Powmill, The Fit One identified a spot of perspiration on his brow. We must have been moving. The last time that happened bank shares were worth 10 times as much. Was it only last year? Doesn't time fly when you are out of work!
And then it was onto the favoured climb of the Fit One .....NOT! As they climbed The Fit One sampled the other cogs on his Felt and actually enjoyed building an acquantance with the middle cog. He even had a bash on the third ring. Sounds like the name of a new novel by Dan Brown. But no, it The Fit Ones 22 tooth front ring. Supplied for girl guide outings!
A short push to the top and the team crested the Mount o the sound of noisy motorbike engines from the eponymous racetrack. 36mph down hill intoteh wind and Dunfermline was soon upon us. Ahealthy and speedy 38 miles in the bag.
A sub 30 minute climb to the Col du Cleish was easily achieved and then a tuck position down to the road to Crook of Devon. The Fit One was pushing hard into the wind with each rider wanting to take the wind face on to build stamina for the Internetiona Col du Carnock meeting at the end of August. The field is building with some participants actually having relatives overseas (Northern Ireland)
By the time the duo stopped for coffee at the Milkbar in Powmill, The Fit One identified a spot of perspiration on his brow. We must have been moving. The last time that happened bank shares were worth 10 times as much. Was it only last year? Doesn't time fly when you are out of work!
And then it was onto the favoured climb of the Fit One .....NOT! As they climbed The Fit One sampled the other cogs on his Felt and actually enjoyed building an acquantance with the middle cog. He even had a bash on the third ring. Sounds like the name of a new novel by Dan Brown. But no, it The Fit Ones 22 tooth front ring. Supplied for girl guide outings!
A short push to the top and the team crested the Mount o the sound of noisy motorbike engines from the eponymous racetrack. 36mph down hill intoteh wind and Dunfermline was soon upon us. Ahealthy and speedy 38 miles in the bag.
Highland Fling....
Yesterday was a cracking day. We met up at the Mountain Cafe in Aviemore. I was meeting the Sky Cairngorm Challenge team to recce the course. Moonwalker was walking to the top of Cairngorm with the team captain of the Cloete Dumplings while I was doing the bike course with the rest of the team.
The rain cleared, the sun came out and following a fantastic breakfast in said Mountain Cafe we set off. The route started at Loch Morlich. It was downhill for the first 10km mostly offroad and the team was in good spirits. We joined the road again near Aviemore and set off north towards Nethy Bridge. We stayed on the road too long and went off in the wrong direction! A good start! Hopefully there will be marshalls at the junctions on race day!
The team started to flag as we neared the end of the route and the offroad uphill section got steeper. My bike wouldn't go on to the smallest cog which was an inconvenience but made the hills a good test.
The scenery was as you would expect stunning and the company excellent. I really enjoyed the day.
When we got back to the car I jumped into my running kit and ran the 8 miles back to the hotel. The run was great - there is a path that runs beside the road that made it really enjoyable.
Back at the hotel I celebrated my day's effort with a nice cold beer......
The rain cleared, the sun came out and following a fantastic breakfast in said Mountain Cafe we set off. The route started at Loch Morlich. It was downhill for the first 10km mostly offroad and the team was in good spirits. We joined the road again near Aviemore and set off north towards Nethy Bridge. We stayed on the road too long and went off in the wrong direction! A good start! Hopefully there will be marshalls at the junctions on race day!
The team started to flag as we neared the end of the route and the offroad uphill section got steeper. My bike wouldn't go on to the smallest cog which was an inconvenience but made the hills a good test.
The scenery was as you would expect stunning and the company excellent. I really enjoyed the day.
When we got back to the car I jumped into my running kit and ran the 8 miles back to the hotel. The run was great - there is a path that runs beside the road that made it really enjoyable.
Back at the hotel I celebrated my day's effort with a nice cold beer......
Saturday 1 August 2009
Memories of Alpine Training - Alpe d'Huez and col du Saronne
Friday 3rd July 2009
The local guide book had outlined this as a stuning ride that took you away from tourist routes into a vast valley hidden from the road.
Statistics
Distance 54km
Ascent gain 5850ft
Max Gradient 12%
The plan had been to rise early and set off before the mid day sun baked usThe first plan went well however after 'enjoying' some technical difficulties with the laptop, we did not leave until 10.30am. This brought us to the foot of Alpe d'Huez at 11.00 as we commenced the 21 bends.
With a confidence from already having conquered the beast twice in the past week, I wanted 'to have a go'. The first 5 bends have the steepest gradient between them. I upped the pace and pushed past a few cyclists. It was surreal to go past a bloke on a form of scooter - large front wheel, size of 26 inch wheel and normal small rear scooter wheel pushing up a 10% gradient with alternate feet, weird.
As the 7000 participants for tomorrow's Marmottes 5000m climb, 174km road race had to register at Alpe d'Huez today, the road was very busy with cars. Not withstanding this , I pushed on. The temperature was in the high 80's, the clouds were having a day off, ad thewind was not present.
At bend 9, the plan all went pear shaped. Sweat oozing from parts of my body I did not know had sweat glands, creating a fine shine on the arms and legs. Salt stinging in the eyes as the sweat runs down the well polished forehead. All this distraction took my mind off the need to push the
pedals and I felt like I had no gas in the tank.
pedals and I felt like I had no gas in the tank.I imagined what would Ironman do? re-focus. I survived between bends 10 and 9 and lost the shades making it easier to clear the sweat from my eyes. I reduced the cadence to a comfortable rate to re-establish a pedal pattern. No mistaking, I had bonked (the cycling term for no energy) having completely mis-read the most appropriate cadncefor the respective gradients.
Between 9 bends and 8 the bends eased temporarily enabling me to re-build confidence. Maybe it was the heat, maybe it was lack of water, maybe it was burning too much too soon - Whatever the cause I learnt a lesson.
I took the rest of the bends and the climb as my legs told me they could achieve. On the last bend I was passed by three young cyclists's ( 20's) and latched onto their wheel for the last few hundred metres. The legs were shot, however a rest stop at the cafe was planned ............ and pre-agreed with Mrs Bigman. Time taken - 73 minutes - slower than the last time.
This would allow me to build strength for further 1625ft of climbing to Col du Saronne. The views along the cliff edge were magnificent. We met four lads taking part in tomorrow's Marmottes event - an 1800m climb the day before a 5000m climb event does not sound sensible!
This would allow me to build strength for further 1625ft of climbing to Col du Saronne. The views along the cliff edge were magnificent. We met four lads taking part in tomorrow's Marmottes event - an 1800m climb the day before a 5000m climb event does not sound sensible!
Another lady we met, who is in the seniors class, is aiming for 10hrs 30 mins to achieve a 'gold' medal - 10 hours in this heat - mad!!!
After the Col du Sarrene, the switchbacks to the Barrage du Chambon were too numerous to count and the muscles on the fingers had to work hard to manage the brakes. When the pros do these descents they have to take care to alternate the braking as the rims can overheat and blow the tyres. One one swithchback, we got a bit spooked as we found the tar had turned to liquid due the heat and the tyres were not gripping anything to bite into the turn.
After the Col du Sarrene, the switchbacks to the Barrage du Chambon were too numerous to count and the muscles on the fingers had to work hard to manage the brakes. When the pros do these descents they have to take care to alternate the braking as the rims can overheat and blow the tyres. One one swithchback, we got a bit spooked as we found the tar had turned to liquid due the heat and the tyres were not gripping anything to bite into the turn.
From the Barrage, we had to do the scary trip through a few mountain tunnels. The road is very narrow and the road traffic noise thunderous and echoing. You have no sense in tunnels with bends whether the traffic is coming towards you or behind you. Definitely white knuckle stuff.
At Bourg d'Oisans we decided we deserved a coffee for great day's climbing. We targeted the cafe next to the bike shop. The town is heaving with visitors for tomorrow's race. We have become real saddo's identifying expensive kit. Most expensive bike so far is £6900 in the magazines .
The Fit One and Bigman have a blowout
It has not happened since the year Lance Armstrong last won the Tour de France in 2005. But it happened today in Fife. The former members of the elite cycling club- Team Turtle- returned for a re-union cycle. They have not cycled together since the monstrous Cape Wrath Epic. The Duracell and The Doc both back for a team tour to Stirling and the famous Corrieri's Cafe.
There may not have been much wrath, but it certainly was an epic day out with fairytale finishes with the tortoises beating the hares through stealth and guile, Fit One and Bigman blowouts, and the Duracell takes the King of the Mountain jersey following a surging Cavendish style sprint to the top of Col du Fishcross.
It all began peacefuly with much chattering as the guys caught on the events of the last 4 years or so and memories of the shared telephone box adopted as a shelter when a hurricane and monsoon blew through the North West of Scotland. That day's weather certainly 'dampened' spirits after a fine lunch in the fish restaurant at Kylesku.
Since that time The Doc has shed more than a shell. As the Duracell commented 3 stone shed is 3 stone shared............................ when it moves to the other half of team Turtle!
The first blowout came on the cycle track when The Fit was declared unfit to continue having sprung a leak in his tyre. With his domestique 'the Doc' present, normal service was restored and we were once again on our way. On exiting Alloa, The Fit One once again sprung a leak. His domestique was quickly on hand to repair the damage and we were once again on our way.
With much chatter about the fitness of the Fit One after a months intensive training and Bigman fresh from his Alpine Training retreat, Team Turtle frequently and publicly voiced respect, lulling their competition in the International Col du Carnock meet into a false sense of security. Maybe they knew how the day would end?
With no further punctures, a fine array of carbing up went on at Corrieri's cafe in Stirling ranging from toast for the Fit One to Bacon rolls and hot apple pie and ice cream for the Duracell.
It was then back to business, onto the bikes, and head back to Dunfermline. As the peleton led out through Stirling heading for Alloa, a stream of cyclists formd with the Fit One breaking wind in the front. The Duracell was tucked in behind with the carbs from the bacon roll producing twitches in his thighs. The energy builting to a cresendo and no where to go, at least not yet.
And then the Col du Fishcross appeared, a short 500 metres in front of the peleton. The Duracell built up the revs on the Dawes Galaxy and when he was confident he had hit the 'red' zone, he exploded with power going to warp 9 in 5.4 seconds and accelarated past The Fit One. Before he could respond, The Duracel crested the Col and smiled in satisfaction as the mighty Oak trees lining the cobbled boulevard into Alloa waved in appreciation.
On the cycle track, holding a healthy 28km per hour, Bigman got a puncture. After all the miles travelled and all the metres climbed in the Alps without so much of a puff, the run of punctures strikes again. The Doc, the domestique, was quickly into action and the soon the team were back on the road.
If this had been time trialling, the Team Turtle, would have beaten the puncture riddled 'hares' to the finishing line no problem. Steady as she goes was the winning strategy today for Team Turtle re-eunited.
In his post exercise weigh in, Bigman hit a new record at 13st 7lbs!
Earlier in the week, we asked could anything stop the Bigman improving his fitness levels?............... and the answer is yes! He is now back in full-time employment and his team mates are overjoyed, even going as far as to buy him Mars bars and dairy milk chocolate for his piece box on his daily commute across to Glasgow .......... by train
There may not have been much wrath, but it certainly was an epic day out with fairytale finishes with the tortoises beating the hares through stealth and guile, Fit One and Bigman blowouts, and the Duracell takes the King of the Mountain jersey following a surging Cavendish style sprint to the top of Col du Fishcross.
It all began peacefuly with much chattering as the guys caught on the events of the last 4 years or so and memories of the shared telephone box adopted as a shelter when a hurricane and monsoon blew through the North West of Scotland. That day's weather certainly 'dampened' spirits after a fine lunch in the fish restaurant at Kylesku.
Since that time The Doc has shed more than a shell. As the Duracell commented 3 stone shed is 3 stone shared............................ when it moves to the other half of team Turtle!
The first blowout came on the cycle track when The Fit was declared unfit to continue having sprung a leak in his tyre. With his domestique 'the Doc' present, normal service was restored and we were once again on our way. On exiting Alloa, The Fit One once again sprung a leak. His domestique was quickly on hand to repair the damage and we were once again on our way.
With much chatter about the fitness of the Fit One after a months intensive training and Bigman fresh from his Alpine Training retreat, Team Turtle frequently and publicly voiced respect, lulling their competition in the International Col du Carnock meet into a false sense of security. Maybe they knew how the day would end?
With no further punctures, a fine array of carbing up went on at Corrieri's cafe in Stirling ranging from toast for the Fit One to Bacon rolls and hot apple pie and ice cream for the Duracell.
It was then back to business, onto the bikes, and head back to Dunfermline. As the peleton led out through Stirling heading for Alloa, a stream of cyclists formd with the Fit One breaking wind in the front. The Duracell was tucked in behind with the carbs from the bacon roll producing twitches in his thighs. The energy builting to a cresendo and no where to go, at least not yet.
And then the Col du Fishcross appeared, a short 500 metres in front of the peleton. The Duracell built up the revs on the Dawes Galaxy and when he was confident he had hit the 'red' zone, he exploded with power going to warp 9 in 5.4 seconds and accelarated past The Fit One. Before he could respond, The Duracel crested the Col and smiled in satisfaction as the mighty Oak trees lining the cobbled boulevard into Alloa waved in appreciation.
On the cycle track, holding a healthy 28km per hour, Bigman got a puncture. After all the miles travelled and all the metres climbed in the Alps without so much of a puff, the run of punctures strikes again. The Doc, the domestique, was quickly into action and the soon the team were back on the road.
If this had been time trialling, the Team Turtle, would have beaten the puncture riddled 'hares' to the finishing line no problem. Steady as she goes was the winning strategy today for Team Turtle re-eunited.
In his post exercise weigh in, Bigman hit a new record at 13st 7lbs!
Earlier in the week, we asked could anything stop the Bigman improving his fitness levels?............... and the answer is yes! He is now back in full-time employment and his team mates are overjoyed, even going as far as to buy him Mars bars and dairy milk chocolate for his piece box on his daily commute across to Glasgow .......... by train
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