Before setting out this morning, Bigman enjoyed a coffee looking out over the garden full of trees clinging to their 09 leaves which are looking very suntanned. With a flutter of wind a few more separate themselves and float aimlessly to the waiting carpet of grass. This is going to be one of these tremendous autumn days when the sun is in the sky, the wind is minimal, and everything around evidences the changing seasons.
The Posse headed out to the Ochils hills to take in the spectrum of colours. In the posse was Ironman complete with newly acquired New York patter, The Fit One fresh from an Eagles tribute band concern which means we know the songs he will be singing today, The Marathon Man, and Bigman.
They sped out to Saline, over towards Yetts of Muchart and downhill into Dollar. You always meet one now and again. Today was such a day. A motorist who feels his road tax gives him the right to abuse cyclists. A little black sporty number with go faster twin silver exhausts and a 600cc engine draws up alongside the Fit One brushes his elbow with his wing mirror, hurls some semi intelligent abuse out of the window, blasts his horn and speeds off. To his credit, The Fit One merely responded with a wave and a smile!
After leaving Dollar, the wailing sound of a police siren came from behind. Were they after The Fit One, looking to make an arrest? Actually it was an ambulance racing to someone's rescue.
Through Tillicoultry and it was up the hill and over to Alloa via Fishcross and then down to the Forth through the back road out of Clackmannan to Kincardine for a fine coffee stop.
The Ironman was disappointed to find waffles and maple syrup were not amongst the options, but then he was no longer in Manhattan.
Stories were shared of his exploits to New York and The Fit One shared experiences of his recent visit to Poitiers. The Posse are indeed a well travelled bunch. So much so, it has been suggested The Fit One may be invited to represent the Posse in switching on a town's Christmas Lights. For security reasons, the town in question is being kept under wraps for fear of crowd trouble!
A race back through the ancient village of Culross and Dunfermline was soon back in sight.
A great day out in cracking scenery, with superb company.
Another 64km nearer the Cape Epic which is now less than 20 weeks away.
We now have almost 1000 blog followers include a visitor from South Africa. We will soon be showing our Cape Epic cycling outfit design which cleverly integrates the Scottish Saltire with the South African flag.
Saturday 31 October 2009
Friday 30 October 2009
Oops I did it again.....
The bigman reminded me a couple of weeks ago about an email I wrote to him with the idea that we do the Cape Epic together. I suggested in the email that my ironman days were done and I needed a new focus. I maybe was too fresh after my dreadful swim in New Zealand and the experience (Ma)clouded my judgement.
But I still have business to do with ironman and my aim is to go for sub 14 hours - although in my heart I hope to do closer to 13 hours. A big improvement from my two previous 15 hour efforts.
So this evening, along with Santiago, I entered The Outlaw. An ironman distance event which comprises a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile marathon - a grand day out! I'm really chuffed that Santiago is going to join me in the quest for IM 2010. There is no doubt that Santiago has the strength of body and mind to be an Ironman next August. The training will be significant and the time commitment will be consuming.
My personal hope is that I'll complete the Cape Epic and be strong on the bike. I've just done Loch Ness marathon so I know what that takes. My swimming is the issue. I've been fortunate to get to know a swim coach and with his help my hope is I'll sort out the technique by going back to basics........it's going to be tough.
So back on the treadmill (literally) and a plan is going to be created around my major goal of finishing the Cape Epic.
It was an odd birthday present from Moonwalker but one of the best.......
But I still have business to do with ironman and my aim is to go for sub 14 hours - although in my heart I hope to do closer to 13 hours. A big improvement from my two previous 15 hour efforts.
So this evening, along with Santiago, I entered The Outlaw. An ironman distance event which comprises a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile marathon - a grand day out! I'm really chuffed that Santiago is going to join me in the quest for IM 2010. There is no doubt that Santiago has the strength of body and mind to be an Ironman next August. The training will be significant and the time commitment will be consuming.
My personal hope is that I'll complete the Cape Epic and be strong on the bike. I've just done Loch Ness marathon so I know what that takes. My swimming is the issue. I've been fortunate to get to know a swim coach and with his help my hope is I'll sort out the technique by going back to basics........it's going to be tough.
So back on the treadmill (literally) and a plan is going to be created around my major goal of finishing the Cape Epic.
It was an odd birthday present from Moonwalker but one of the best.......
Back in the spin of things
Back to the dark nights. I'm not why we change the clocks other than the farmers milking in the dark but you can't help but feel that it would still be better having an extra hour in the evening rather than the morning. Personally I'd switch it and have the day entirely during darkness and the keep the evenings bright. It would mean the change of the clocks would be 8 hours instead of 1 and daylight would start at 4pm and it would get dark at 10pm.
Consequences might be a little severe for business but the Bigman and I would eb very grateful if the rest of the UK fitted into this radical change to suit our training!!
Anyway back from NY and back into training. Did a spin and weights session in the house this evening and it was good to be back in the spin of things.
Out with the Bigman and Fit One for definite tomorrow with a threat of the marathon man joining as well. It's going to be great to get out after the rest in NY.
Consequences might be a little severe for business but the Bigman and I would eb very grateful if the rest of the UK fitted into this radical change to suit our training!!
Anyway back from NY and back into training. Did a spin and weights session in the house this evening and it was good to be back in the spin of things.
Out with the Bigman and Fit One for definite tomorrow with a threat of the marathon man joining as well. It's going to be great to get out after the rest in NY.
Wednesday 28 October 2009
Where the sum of the parts is less than the whole!
The media called it an Indian summer and so it turned out on a fine Fife autumn evening. Bigman was fresh off a call to Australia and it was onto the bike in 17 degrees to join the magnificent seven.
The Fit One, Junior II, Santiago, Knight Rider, Marathon Man, The Wee Yin, and Bigman rode out into the darkness to climb the iconic Col du Cleish in the pitch black.
The few passing motorists must have been confused by the array of flashing lights and could have been forgiven for thinking Christmas lights had been switched on early in the rurals around Balnagown.
With no wind, there was lots of chatter as each switched position to catch up with the news from one another. As the posse passed the monument to the Gruesome Twosome, Junior II and The FitOne had a debate as to which represented whom. Junior II reckoned he was the handsome one! The MArathon Man was in need of some new batteries as he borrowed illumination from The Wee Yin sporting her knew 100w spotlight.
And so onward and upward to the view over Loch Leven. A slight mist hovered over parts of the road adding to the mystique of the mountain climb. Loch Leven had a shimmering reflection of Scotlandwell resting on its surface.
On the return the scent of a race was in the air. The would be no competition as, due to technical difficulties with his mountain bike, the Fit One was on his road bike. At the first rise on the way down Cleish, Bigman found The Fit One 'sleeping' and in the wrong gear for acceleration, Bigman sped up the hill. That would not likely happen again tonight. The Museum Sprint would soon be upon them and The Fit One would be ready.
As the descent started the Fit One looked to see where Santiago wss lurking and eyeballed Bigman. He then wound up the roadbike. Bigman knew he would have to build momentum on the downhill and sustain the rise up to the museum. Like an eagle swooping on its helpless prey, Bigman sustained the drive and flew past The FitOne with metres to spare before the virtual line, as the Fit One cried that he had gone too early.
junior II watched with interest as memories of the unbeaten record of the Gruesome Twosome on the Creepy Coupe flooded back. As the headline states, the sum of the parts is less than the whole. It also shows the speed the Creepy Coup must be achieving as The Bigman has not yet managed to accelerate past the awesome machine.
A class 3 rise near Townhill saw The Fit One claw back some pride however the damage had been done for the night.
It was a superb night and it would be good to see the Return of the Magnificent Seven next week. It may even be more as two tandem cyclists have threatened to join the posse next week. Two more names to add to the roll call as the posse, once again, ride out!
Watch this space.
The Fit One, Junior II, Santiago, Knight Rider, Marathon Man, The Wee Yin, and Bigman rode out into the darkness to climb the iconic Col du Cleish in the pitch black.
The few passing motorists must have been confused by the array of flashing lights and could have been forgiven for thinking Christmas lights had been switched on early in the rurals around Balnagown.
With no wind, there was lots of chatter as each switched position to catch up with the news from one another. As the posse passed the monument to the Gruesome Twosome, Junior II and The FitOne had a debate as to which represented whom. Junior II reckoned he was the handsome one! The MArathon Man was in need of some new batteries as he borrowed illumination from The Wee Yin sporting her knew 100w spotlight.
And so onward and upward to the view over Loch Leven. A slight mist hovered over parts of the road adding to the mystique of the mountain climb. Loch Leven had a shimmering reflection of Scotlandwell resting on its surface.
On the return the scent of a race was in the air. The would be no competition as, due to technical difficulties with his mountain bike, the Fit One was on his road bike. At the first rise on the way down Cleish, Bigman found The Fit One 'sleeping' and in the wrong gear for acceleration, Bigman sped up the hill. That would not likely happen again tonight. The Museum Sprint would soon be upon them and The Fit One would be ready.
As the descent started the Fit One looked to see where Santiago wss lurking and eyeballed Bigman. He then wound up the roadbike. Bigman knew he would have to build momentum on the downhill and sustain the rise up to the museum. Like an eagle swooping on its helpless prey, Bigman sustained the drive and flew past The FitOne with metres to spare before the virtual line, as the Fit One cried that he had gone too early.
junior II watched with interest as memories of the unbeaten record of the Gruesome Twosome on the Creepy Coupe flooded back. As the headline states, the sum of the parts is less than the whole. It also shows the speed the Creepy Coup must be achieving as The Bigman has not yet managed to accelerate past the awesome machine.
A class 3 rise near Townhill saw The Fit One claw back some pride however the damage had been done for the night.
It was a superb night and it would be good to see the Return of the Magnificent Seven next week. It may even be more as two tandem cyclists have threatened to join the posse next week. Two more names to add to the roll call as the posse, once again, ride out!
Watch this space.
Hitting the gym stateside
Our time in New York is nearing an end.
It's been an amazing trip. In a vain effort to shift the inevitable pounds gained from cheesecake, key lime pie and the odd beer Moonwalker and I hit the W gym. It's been a fantastic hotel - granted a wee bit out of New York in New Jersey but we've both appreciated getting out of the hub bub of the city.
The gym was pretty well eqipped and I hit started on the running machine. A 30 minute interval session did the job! No air conditioning made the place very very hot. I was living up to the name of the place and in a 'sweat'. After the run it was on to the weights. I think weights will benefit core strength and I'm going to get stuck in this winter - no intention of building muscle just want a bit more core stability and please be assured my core is less than stable at the moment!
We fly home tonight. I'm sure the gang are climbing Cleish as I blog.......
I've bought new winter kit to encourage biking in the cold. We'll see if it works.....
It's been an amazing trip. In a vain effort to shift the inevitable pounds gained from cheesecake, key lime pie and the odd beer Moonwalker and I hit the W gym. It's been a fantastic hotel - granted a wee bit out of New York in New Jersey but we've both appreciated getting out of the hub bub of the city.
The gym was pretty well eqipped and I hit started on the running machine. A 30 minute interval session did the job! No air conditioning made the place very very hot. I was living up to the name of the place and in a 'sweat'. After the run it was on to the weights. I think weights will benefit core strength and I'm going to get stuck in this winter - no intention of building muscle just want a bit more core stability and please be assured my core is less than stable at the moment!
We fly home tonight. I'm sure the gang are climbing Cleish as I blog.......
I've bought new winter kit to encourage biking in the cold. We'll see if it works.....
Monday 26 October 2009
From the North America to Brazil ..........
With Ironman in the Big Apple, Bigman was left to make a visit to the home of the Blue Brazil, better known as Cowdenbeath.
It is a tough choice. The welcome at the sports centre is superb and the instructor at the spin class does a magnificent job of building confidence.
45 minutes of punishing rhythm climbing and then racing certainly gets the heart going. And after it was all finished, a massive pool of perspiration like the moat of a castle circling Bigman's bike.
A great night
It is a tough choice. The welcome at the sports centre is superb and the instructor at the spin class does a magnificent job of building confidence.
45 minutes of punishing rhythm climbing and then racing certainly gets the heart going. And after it was all finished, a massive pool of perspiration like the moat of a castle circling Bigman's bike.
A great night
Ironman is an inspiration to fellow runners
Ironman cruised around Central Park with his new found friend. It was only when he offered to regale stories of his New Zealand Ironman fab finish, did his buddy step up the pace for a faster finish
Mmmmmmmmmmmh?
Crackin time by the Ironman once again
Mmmmmmmmmmmh?
Crackin time by the Ironman once again
Sunday 25 October 2009
A race against father time....
It was a day to remember.
The sun was splitting the New Jersey's sky and the weather was set for the day according to our fantastic door man. The taxi (aka robbing hood!) man dropped us off at Central Park and we registered in plenty of time.
The place was jumping - in NY it's the week before the ING Marathon and the place is all set for the big race. The Americans do things well. Land of the brave was belted out out by a tenor with an amazing voice and the American's stood silent.
The race was slightly larger than I anticipated - about 6,000 - 7,000 registered - I'll find out later how many finished. In the penn at the start my nerves were building, a Coors hydration strategy of Saturday night began to feel like a very bad idea especially as everyone around seemed to be skinny and very athletic. It was at this moment I met Geoff. He was from New Jersey and messed up his morning alarm arrangements, woken up late and thrown a coffee down before heading out to the race.
Geoff had taken up running the year before and now having just turned 40 was loving it and racing regularly. His date with destiny is this time next year when he is a guaranteed starter for the 2010 ING New York Marathon. He was planning 'anything under 35 minutes' I was planning finishing......
We set off together, blethering about our running exploits and dodging the large crowds round about. My theory was to hang as close to Geoff as possible until the jet lag got the better of me. He turned round at three miles and checked on my well being - I responded that I was fine and sweating Coors!! About 4 miles gone and he started to pull away.
I began to tire and plodded my way home. I finished in a respectable 35.55 for the 5 miles which was 520th overall and 60th in my age category - I was chuffed. Geoff finished 10 places ahead of me but described his race as a dog. He also advised that now he was 40 he had moved up a running class and his results had improved.
I meet some great folk running and Geoff was another example of a great guy and I wish him every success in next year's race.
We had a brief excitment later in the day bumping into a movie set with The Rock and Samuel Jackson doing their filming bit - I got told off for taking a picture.....
More cheesecake awaits......
Cheesecake - the choice of champions!
Watersport seems to have been the theme for the weekend. After getting 'droochit' on Saturday, The Wee Yin and Bigman headed for Perth swimming pool to do some 'indoor' training.
Bigman splashed out a mile swim, often causing the odd tsunami to break out across the side of the pool. It has been a while since he has done the exercise in the pool however it felt good to be back and it looks like this could form a regular part of the winter training regime.
Cheesecake also seems to be the food of Champions.
After a dose of exercise, Bigman headed to the Willow Tearooms for some fine Earl Grey tea and a significant slice of Vanilla Cheesecake. It may not be the Big Apple, however it tasted superb.
Here's hoping the Ironman does not get rusty in his wet New York run!
Aquick hydration and it is out for the weekly fives to get some sprint training done.
Bigman splashed out a mile swim, often causing the odd tsunami to break out across the side of the pool. It has been a while since he has done the exercise in the pool however it felt good to be back and it looks like this could form a regular part of the winter training regime.
Cheesecake also seems to be the food of Champions.
After a dose of exercise, Bigman headed to the Willow Tearooms for some fine Earl Grey tea and a significant slice of Vanilla Cheesecake. It may not be the Big Apple, however it tasted superb.
Here's hoping the Ironman does not get rusty in his wet New York run!
Aquick hydration and it is out for the weekly fives to get some sprint training done.
A quick 'How you doing?' from NY
Sitting in a very swanky bar in our hotel in New Jersey trying to ignore it's well after bedtime!!!
We've arrived in the big apple (well possibly adam's apple as we've not been into NY yet!)
A wee 5 mile race at lunch time tomorrow your time awaits. Sadly pre-race hydration strategy has been too successful and cheesecake (like Santiago's!) was hard to ignore.
The cats and dogs weather seems to have travelled inter continental with us - it was very very wet tonight but the forecast is improving tomorrow..........
Glad to read that the Bigman and Santiago ignored the inclement weather today - the race seems to be getting closer by the day - but then again maybe it is!
We've arrived in the big apple (well possibly adam's apple as we've not been into NY yet!)
A wee 5 mile race at lunch time tomorrow your time awaits. Sadly pre-race hydration strategy has been too successful and cheesecake (like Santiago's!) was hard to ignore.
The cats and dogs weather seems to have travelled inter continental with us - it was very very wet tonight but the forecast is improving tomorrow..........
Glad to read that the Bigman and Santiago ignored the inclement weather today - the race seems to be getting closer by the day - but then again maybe it is!
Saturday 24 October 2009
British Summer Time ........... Gone with the wind!
British Summer Time was blown away today as stormy weather battered the remnants of the Saturday posse.
Ironman was away on international duty and The Fit One was hydrating at a Ceilidh last night and so unable to make the early morning start.
Santiago and Bigman braved the elements and headed up over Mont VeKnockhill towards Yetts of Muchart. The top of VeKnockhill was a sea of mist albeit passing over head at about 40 miles per hour with a strong chilling wind from the east. At least it was not raining ............... yet!
At Yetts, the pair hung a right and tucked in, taking turns to drive, at pace, into the head on wind. The 8 miles appeared to take an age to cover. At Milnathort, it was up to Loch Leven's Larder for a carbing stop. Santiago went for the full boona with cheesecake.
The return to Kinross was at pace with the wind pushing the pair along. The junction to Kinross indicated the road was closed however the fearless pair sped along weaving through the hurdles put across the road to delay the less determined.
As the pair shot through Kinross, Santiago forecast a bit of a downpour. And so it came to pass, or rather remain overhead. It was raining stair rods, cats and dogs, and any other analogy you would care to mention and all at the same time!
Last night The Wingman had been describing a product development idea for future Epic Adventures. It resembles the re-fueling capability aircraft use when making long distance sortis.. He plans to dangle a tube out of the support car enabling carb on-boarding without having to stop. Which of the posse is likely to take up this idea................ we wonder?
The Fit One had phoned during the cheesecake to check whether the posse was out 'on the range'. It appeared he found this incomprehensible.
With rain diluting the perspiration and creating rivers flowing fast and furious into the eyes, Bigman had nightmares about Alpe D'Huez when the sweat burnt into his eyes. With driving stair rods of rain, sweat burning the eyes, the North Face yet to be ascended, and cold water starting to infuse his socks, Bigman was starting to wonder what made this fun. On apositive note, the Gore waterproof shorts were holding up well. There is little worse than wet cycling shorts complete with a dampened chamois between a rider and his saddle.
The younger members of the posse may easily make a connection with their nappy wearing days, but Junior is not with the posse today.
The North Face is ascended and the wind eases as the posse drops down past Loch Fitone and the monument to the Gruesome Twosome. As the guys approach the Museum Race Point, Bigman kicks down on the pedals and he is off. Wind assisted it was with great pace, the race was over before it started.
Another 72km towards the Cape Epic enduarance race. Another milestone hit last night was the blogger count went past 900. Next stop 1000 bloggers. You are all very intelligent and wise readers!
Ironman was away on international duty and The Fit One was hydrating at a Ceilidh last night and so unable to make the early morning start.
Santiago and Bigman braved the elements and headed up over Mont VeKnockhill towards Yetts of Muchart. The top of VeKnockhill was a sea of mist albeit passing over head at about 40 miles per hour with a strong chilling wind from the east. At least it was not raining ............... yet!
At Yetts, the pair hung a right and tucked in, taking turns to drive, at pace, into the head on wind. The 8 miles appeared to take an age to cover. At Milnathort, it was up to Loch Leven's Larder for a carbing stop. Santiago went for the full boona with cheesecake.
The return to Kinross was at pace with the wind pushing the pair along. The junction to Kinross indicated the road was closed however the fearless pair sped along weaving through the hurdles put across the road to delay the less determined.
As the pair shot through Kinross, Santiago forecast a bit of a downpour. And so it came to pass, or rather remain overhead. It was raining stair rods, cats and dogs, and any other analogy you would care to mention and all at the same time!
Last night The Wingman had been describing a product development idea for future Epic Adventures. It resembles the re-fueling capability aircraft use when making long distance sortis.. He plans to dangle a tube out of the support car enabling carb on-boarding without having to stop. Which of the posse is likely to take up this idea................ we wonder?
The Fit One had phoned during the cheesecake to check whether the posse was out 'on the range'. It appeared he found this incomprehensible.
With rain diluting the perspiration and creating rivers flowing fast and furious into the eyes, Bigman had nightmares about Alpe D'Huez when the sweat burnt into his eyes. With driving stair rods of rain, sweat burning the eyes, the North Face yet to be ascended, and cold water starting to infuse his socks, Bigman was starting to wonder what made this fun. On apositive note, the Gore waterproof shorts were holding up well. There is little worse than wet cycling shorts complete with a dampened chamois between a rider and his saddle.
The younger members of the posse may easily make a connection with their nappy wearing days, but Junior is not with the posse today.
The North Face is ascended and the wind eases as the posse drops down past Loch Fitone and the monument to the Gruesome Twosome. As the guys approach the Museum Race Point, Bigman kicks down on the pedals and he is off. Wind assisted it was with great pace, the race was over before it started.
Another 72km towards the Cape Epic enduarance race. Another milestone hit last night was the blogger count went past 900. Next stop 1000 bloggers. You are all very intelligent and wise readers!
Friday 23 October 2009
test the technology.......
Well I picked up the phone that we'll be using in South Africa so I thought that it would be good to give it a test tonight. It seems to be working but time will tell.
Wednesday 21 October 2009
Little and Large ride out!
With school holidays still in full flow, the Dark Knights posse was reduced to two ..................... and not the gruesome twosome!
The Ironman and Bigman defied teh weather forecast and set out into the dark and ominous skies to climb the iconic Col du Cleish. It was a stiff wind from the east however with full winter gear and a good climbing pace, it did not field cold.
The pair descended down the North Face fast have soaked in the atmosphere created by dramatic clouds being shaded many colours by the streetlighting towards Kinross.
As a variant to the normal wednesday route, the pair headed along to teh village of Cleish and then on up to join the Mont VeKnockihill Road. It is strage how a road looks and feels different in the dark. New markings take on more significance as you estimate how far you still have to climb as the road blends into the black canvass ahead. You almost have to re-learn signs that provide clues as to how far. This prevents you burning out to fast on a hill that extends further than your legs expected!
Over the 25 miles, we encountered less than 10 cars. It was a really great night. The guys discussed how there had now passed 32 weeks since the training started back in April, with just over 20 weeks to go until the race commences.
On the return to Dunfie, Bigman visited Chez Ironman to review the cycling shirt designs for teh Cape Epic Kit. It is superb. A blend of Scotland and South Africa and proudly displaying our charity's logo Aberlour Childcare Trust.
It seems ever closer.
The Ironman and Bigman defied teh weather forecast and set out into the dark and ominous skies to climb the iconic Col du Cleish. It was a stiff wind from the east however with full winter gear and a good climbing pace, it did not field cold.
The pair descended down the North Face fast have soaked in the atmosphere created by dramatic clouds being shaded many colours by the streetlighting towards Kinross.
As a variant to the normal wednesday route, the pair headed along to teh village of Cleish and then on up to join the Mont VeKnockihill Road. It is strage how a road looks and feels different in the dark. New markings take on more significance as you estimate how far you still have to climb as the road blends into the black canvass ahead. You almost have to re-learn signs that provide clues as to how far. This prevents you burning out to fast on a hill that extends further than your legs expected!
Over the 25 miles, we encountered less than 10 cars. It was a really great night. The guys discussed how there had now passed 32 weeks since the training started back in April, with just over 20 weeks to go until the race commences.
On the return to Dunfie, Bigman visited Chez Ironman to review the cycling shirt designs for teh Cape Epic Kit. It is superb. A blend of Scotland and South Africa and proudly displaying our charity's logo Aberlour Childcare Trust.
It seems ever closer.
Monday 19 October 2009
Wet, Wet, Wet
It was wet, it was windy, and it was punishing. No, this was not an outing up and over Col du Cleish on a dismal Autumn evening ( although you could be forgiven for thinking this as the editor looks out his window)
Bigman has made his first trip of the winter to the RPM classes at Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre. With the fan blasting full pelt trying to keep the temperature below boiling, and the beads of sweat spirting out of the Bigmann's pores, the instructor just kept shouting turn that dial up!!!!!
RPM is a fantastic exercise regime with a mixture of 'sprint' music followed by 'mountain stage' music as you pound the pedals.
45 minutes of constant pushing your body as the muscles warm and endure more pressure as you push for the 'summit' or 'race for the line'.
All on a nights training as the Epic Caper draws closer
Bigman has made his first trip of the winter to the RPM classes at Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre. With the fan blasting full pelt trying to keep the temperature below boiling, and the beads of sweat spirting out of the Bigmann's pores, the instructor just kept shouting turn that dial up!!!!!
RPM is a fantastic exercise regime with a mixture of 'sprint' music followed by 'mountain stage' music as you pound the pedals.
45 minutes of constant pushing your body as the muscles warm and endure more pressure as you push for the 'summit' or 'race for the line'.
All on a nights training as the Epic Caper draws closer
Sunday 18 October 2009
Stalling is the new falling.....
Yesterday I was home bound sorting my well documented plumbing problems. I'm gald to report the heating is working again and the guy who came over did a fab job. So after he'd left I was able to nip over to the Bigman's house to pick up the 'red flash' for Waverider. The 'red flash' is a basic road bike that the Bigman has kindly lent to Waverider to test his road legs.
After a bit of tinkering at lunchtime today we set off for the cycle track on the 'red flash's' inaugural flight. Waverider was a little nervous. He's a big lad and in order to accomodate his frame we had to put the seat up a few inches. A road bike takes a bit of getting used to because the set up is more aggressive than a hybrid or mountain bike. The handlebars are narrower and therefore the riding position feels unstable and unusual on getting started.
We set off up to the bike path with Waverider gripping the handlebars tightly and concentrating on keeping the bike on the road - it didn't seem wide enough at points! We took our time down the hill to the junction with the track.
Once on the track, Waverider was focussed on learning riding technique and getting used to the bike. The first little incident was when we practiced and emergency stop - somehow he managed to bump his knee off the handlebars. The second was when he lost concentration and wandered off piste into the grass at the side of the road. When I looked back he was picking himself up and dusting down - glad to report no damage and no dent to his enthusiasm.
As we arrived home I asked how he had enjoyed the ride apart from the falling over....Waverider came back immediately - 'I didn't fall over I was stalling!' So falling is now so yesterday and stalling is the way to come off the bike these days....
I'm hoping I don't stall for a long long time!
The bike needs a bit of TLC and a few minor adjustments which we'll get sorted tomorrow I hope - hopefully we have a new member of the biking fraternity and he'll be out with us on a Saturday soon.
When we got home I switched into my running kit, grabbed the dog and ran a wee 4 miler. He's becoming a good running partner and seems to have got the hang of the running lead that I use. It's a fab place to run and although the sun wasn't splitting the stones, the scenery is none less stunning and with the darkening, ominous late afternoon sky adding to the drama of what was a great day.
A new week begins tomorrow but with Waverider on holiday it might be good to get out again to built his confidence. Forecast for the week is not so good but they seem to get it wrong as often as they get it right so you never know.....
After a bit of tinkering at lunchtime today we set off for the cycle track on the 'red flash's' inaugural flight. Waverider was a little nervous. He's a big lad and in order to accomodate his frame we had to put the seat up a few inches. A road bike takes a bit of getting used to because the set up is more aggressive than a hybrid or mountain bike. The handlebars are narrower and therefore the riding position feels unstable and unusual on getting started.
We set off up to the bike path with Waverider gripping the handlebars tightly and concentrating on keeping the bike on the road - it didn't seem wide enough at points! We took our time down the hill to the junction with the track.
Once on the track, Waverider was focussed on learning riding technique and getting used to the bike. The first little incident was when we practiced and emergency stop - somehow he managed to bump his knee off the handlebars. The second was when he lost concentration and wandered off piste into the grass at the side of the road. When I looked back he was picking himself up and dusting down - glad to report no damage and no dent to his enthusiasm.
As we arrived home I asked how he had enjoyed the ride apart from the falling over....Waverider came back immediately - 'I didn't fall over I was stalling!' So falling is now so yesterday and stalling is the way to come off the bike these days....
I'm hoping I don't stall for a long long time!
The bike needs a bit of TLC and a few minor adjustments which we'll get sorted tomorrow I hope - hopefully we have a new member of the biking fraternity and he'll be out with us on a Saturday soon.
When we got home I switched into my running kit, grabbed the dog and ran a wee 4 miler. He's becoming a good running partner and seems to have got the hang of the running lead that I use. It's a fab place to run and although the sun wasn't splitting the stones, the scenery is none less stunning and with the darkening, ominous late afternoon sky adding to the drama of what was a great day.
A new week begins tomorrow but with Waverider on holiday it might be good to get out again to built his confidence. Forecast for the week is not so good but they seem to get it wrong as often as they get it right so you never know.....
Saturday 17 October 2009
Is this the real life or is it just fantasy...............
Another cracking day in Fife., blue skies, no wind, and it is Saturday. With pressing plumbing problems, the Ironman had to call off and so it was a reduced posse of Bigman, Wee Yin, and The Fit One that set off to circumvent the Forth estuary on our favourite 'two bridge' route. They will cover 45 miles of coast line including the industrialised Grangemouth to the historic village of Culross.
As the team crossed the Forth Bridge, they were rewarded with spectacular views out to the Forth with a 'brucey bonus' of the Queen Mary cruise ship sitting in the centre of the river making a visit to Edinburgh.
Much discussion centred on The Fit One's impending trip to France on holiday as the miles passed. A slight frost hung around the fields as they spun towards Linlithgow where upon it was a right turn and up through Boness before a quick downhill and through the oil refinery in Grangemouth.
It has been a few months since the posse have travelled this route and certainly not since the very fine cycle route alongside the motorway has been finished. It is great to see such investment and, in addition it is maintained free from debris.
They stopped at the cafe in Kincardine as The Wee Yin was in need of some food. The Fit One succumbed to a square sausage roll. Now that is carbing at a serious level. A text came through from The Ironman confirming his plumbing is sorted and now working again. He will be relieved!
en route to Culross, it is good to see the cycle track is being extended to Kincardine with a very fibe tarmac surface. This should encourage more families to make this journey. The trip through Culross is always a joy with this quaint little village always providing an interesting vist what ever the weather.
At Cairneyhill, the team popped into their favourinte bike shop, Hardie Bikes, to see Bill and have a squeak sorted on the Madone. Job done,and it was a breeze back to Dunfie and another 45 miles completed towards the Cape Epic 2010.
Ironman plumbing prevents progress
With the Saturday morning outing only hours away, the Ironman has called of due to dodgy plumbing.
After a loud crash in the night, a radiator has dropped off the wall and requires urgent repair.
The posse will miss him regailing stories of his epic sub four hour marathon run around Loch Ness.
After a loud crash in the night, a radiator has dropped off the wall and requires urgent repair.
The posse will miss him regailing stories of his epic sub four hour marathon run around Loch Ness.
Bigman, Wee Yin and the Sun Dance
It has been a cracking day with blue skies from morning until dusk. A perfect night for blasting up the iconic Col du Cleish.
Bigman and The Wee Yin were racing against the time to see the sun go down from the top of Cleish.
As they climbed up through Bowershall, the smell of burning wood from the cottages fell out of the chimneys with no wind to carry it. It felt like back to the future, with memories flooding back to Bigman of his cycling trip through the desert at Masada in Israel as the sun went down. The heat was lost and the cold started to bite as the temperature dropped. And to the future, a question on his mind if this is how it will feel in South Africa in 21 weeks time?
The view from the top of Cleish was stunning with a 'ready brek' glow hovering across the western horizon. Alas on this occasion the sun has won and the Americans are enjoying the fruits of Fife's loss.
The pair went for the double dropping down the North Face before turning to re-climb. The Wee Yin is in stunning climbing form and the crest was quickly achieved.
There was no race by the Bus Museum however the monument to the Gruesome Tosome by Loch Fitone has now been floodlit at the entrance to Yellowstone Country Park. Like the film shoots of the Da Vinci Code, this will soon become a favourite visitor attraction once the Epic Caper book is published!
Anotehr 1400ft ascent and 20 miles closer to the Cape Epic 2010.
Thursday 15 October 2009
In the film.....
I asked the bigman the other day who would play me in the movie of the blog. I sat back casting the part in my mind - Tom Cruise, George Clooney or Brad Pitt. All very eligible and some look a likes.
My mind was speeding through the options when I was roundly brought down to earth by the bigman....
Arnold Schwazteneger he suggested - not sure what he was referring to......
My mind was speeding through the options when I was roundly brought down to earth by the bigman....
Arnold Schwazteneger he suggested - not sure what he was referring to......
Wednesday 14 October 2009
STOP PRESS - ANNOUNCEMENT
Blogger viewing figures are growing so fast, negotiations with a publisher to sell book rights have commenced
Dark Knights posse grows
The radio waves were buzzing today with texts amongst the posse. Who will be in? who will be out?
At rendezvous, the posse was up from 3 last week to 5 this week but with regulars pulling out at the last minute for a variety of reasons.
Knight Rider (he only comes out at night) was back for a second week, Santiago joined the 'Dark Knights' posse for the first time, Bigman and the Wee Yin were also present with The Ironman making up the complement, sporting a very fine facilities management 'glo in the dark' safety vest. A relic of the LeJog of 2008 and supplied by Wingman Inc.
The Fit One has a really, really, bad doze of Man Flu. It is therefore understandable he could not make it. The Marathon man had just arrived home. It can be fatal to sit down as the motivation to get up and go out again is really difficult. Junior II, the other half of theruesome Twosome has been working too hard and didmake it.The Creepy Coupe therefore was absent from the posse.
The Ironman has also invested in some cosy bar ends to provide extra comfort on long rides and is hoping he has no relapse of the strain he experienced during the Fochabers 10 hour off race.
The road up to Col du Cleish was extremley quiet and the posse made good progress. Hommage was paid to the monument for the Gruesome Twosome at the side of Loch Fitone.
The Knight Rider breezed up to the crest of Cleish this week, having gained confidence and a better understanding of the road layout in thedarkness form last week.
There was a slight mist at the top however there was no wind and the views across to Kinross were electric with the lights of cars on the motorway flashing past far below.
On the return leg, with no Fit One, Bigman contemplated who would push for the line at the Museum Race Point. The Ironman spotted Bigman in what he considered to be aless than optimal gear and went for the front. Alas, it is alledged his foot came out of the cleat. ( ...........aye right!) and the race was over before it began. Bring back the Creepy Coupe, current chamions of the Dark Knights Sprint.
A great night out in good company and a balmy autumn evening.
At rendezvous, the posse was up from 3 last week to 5 this week but with regulars pulling out at the last minute for a variety of reasons.
Knight Rider (he only comes out at night) was back for a second week, Santiago joined the 'Dark Knights' posse for the first time, Bigman and the Wee Yin were also present with The Ironman making up the complement, sporting a very fine facilities management 'glo in the dark' safety vest. A relic of the LeJog of 2008 and supplied by Wingman Inc.
The Fit One has a really, really, bad doze of Man Flu. It is therefore understandable he could not make it. The Marathon man had just arrived home. It can be fatal to sit down as the motivation to get up and go out again is really difficult. Junior II, the other half of theruesome Twosome has been working too hard and didmake it.The Creepy Coupe therefore was absent from the posse.
The Ironman has also invested in some cosy bar ends to provide extra comfort on long rides and is hoping he has no relapse of the strain he experienced during the Fochabers 10 hour off race.
The road up to Col du Cleish was extremley quiet and the posse made good progress. Hommage was paid to the monument for the Gruesome Twosome at the side of Loch Fitone.
The Knight Rider breezed up to the crest of Cleish this week, having gained confidence and a better understanding of the road layout in thedarkness form last week.
There was a slight mist at the top however there was no wind and the views across to Kinross were electric with the lights of cars on the motorway flashing past far below.
On the return leg, with no Fit One, Bigman contemplated who would push for the line at the Museum Race Point. The Ironman spotted Bigman in what he considered to be aless than optimal gear and went for the front. Alas, it is alledged his foot came out of the cleat. ( ...........aye right!) and the race was over before it began. Bring back the Creepy Coupe, current chamions of the Dark Knights Sprint.
A great night out in good company and a balmy autumn evening.
The fab five's fitness fix....
The midweek ride up Cleish was graced by myself, bigman, the wee yin, santiago and the newly named nightrider.
It was a stonking night out - warm and dry. A perfect night for a ride.
We met up at the usual junction. Bigman led the way with his winter lights beaming up the hill. Santiago was just behind with his tiny emergency front light. It was like a lone star on a very dark night and as useful as a chocolate tea pot - how he could see where he was going was a loss to me but he led the group into the darkness.
He was ably supported by wee yin - her lights were as good as santiago's! Nightrider, bigman and myself took up the rear. The climb passed quickly as we chatted and caught up with each others news. The view from the top over the lights of the motorway and Kinross is stunnning. We're going to ask Wingman to take a picture of it so we can let everyone see what you are missing.
The blast home down the hill was a breeze and I still find it disconcerting as the light disappears and the darkness envelopes the front wheel at an alarming rate. I might need to get my eyes tested!
Santiago is running a half marathon at the weekend and we wish him every success in that. He's a speedy runner so I'm sure he'll get a great time.
It was a stonking night out - warm and dry. A perfect night for a ride.
We met up at the usual junction. Bigman led the way with his winter lights beaming up the hill. Santiago was just behind with his tiny emergency front light. It was like a lone star on a very dark night and as useful as a chocolate tea pot - how he could see where he was going was a loss to me but he led the group into the darkness.
He was ably supported by wee yin - her lights were as good as santiago's! Nightrider, bigman and myself took up the rear. The climb passed quickly as we chatted and caught up with each others news. The view from the top over the lights of the motorway and Kinross is stunnning. We're going to ask Wingman to take a picture of it so we can let everyone see what you are missing.
The blast home down the hill was a breeze and I still find it disconcerting as the light disappears and the darkness envelopes the front wheel at an alarming rate. I might need to get my eyes tested!
Santiago is running a half marathon at the weekend and we wish him every success in that. He's a speedy runner so I'm sure he'll get a great time.
Monday 12 October 2009
Another winter spin
Well the night's have fair drawn in and it's getting dark very early. It's great to head out in the dark one or sometimes two nights a week but the success of these trips is very dependant on organisation. Jackets, longs, gloves, lights etc all need to be clean and organised. So every so often I'll do a spin set inside.
I think spinning is an excellent way to maintain base fitness levels. I enjoy spinning for about an hour at a time, any more and I think I'd go mad. I connect my iPod to the TV and listen to Sufferfest podcast as I thrash my way through an hours excerise.
It was a real push to force myself onto the spin bike tonight. I couldn't really be bothered but once I got started the time passed quickly and I actually enjoyed the session.
Looking forward to fresh air, cleish and getting out with the guys on Wednesday....
I think spinning is an excellent way to maintain base fitness levels. I enjoy spinning for about an hour at a time, any more and I think I'd go mad. I connect my iPod to the TV and listen to Sufferfest podcast as I thrash my way through an hours excerise.
It was a real push to force myself onto the spin bike tonight. I couldn't really be bothered but once I got started the time passed quickly and I actually enjoyed the session.
Looking forward to fresh air, cleish and getting out with the guys on Wednesday....
Sunday 11 October 2009
Sunshine on Fife....
What a cracking morning it was. The sun was splitting the skies and there was little or no wind. I decided it was time to test the legs post marathon.
I set off to Comrie via Oakley. The endophins were kicking in and I danced along to the sounds of Iron Maiden, Lynard Skynard and all of the other aging rockers on Rock FM. Digital radio is a great invention.
The music beat increased the the speed - I must have looked like the village idiot running along singing Livin on a prayer at the top of my voice! After 3 miles I dropped from Blairhall down to the cycle path. I'd covered the ground quickly and was breathing hard. The measured approach of the previous marathon was binned and I was puffed out! I have to say that the last 2 miles were quite hard work. I think the response from my legs was as expected - they were knackered!
A good stretch at home sorted out any residual stiffness from my legs.
I'm going to get up and spin in the morning. Got to keep up with the bigman!
I set off to Comrie via Oakley. The endophins were kicking in and I danced along to the sounds of Iron Maiden, Lynard Skynard and all of the other aging rockers on Rock FM. Digital radio is a great invention.
The music beat increased the the speed - I must have looked like the village idiot running along singing Livin on a prayer at the top of my voice! After 3 miles I dropped from Blairhall down to the cycle path. I'd covered the ground quickly and was breathing hard. The measured approach of the previous marathon was binned and I was puffed out! I have to say that the last 2 miles were quite hard work. I think the response from my legs was as expected - they were knackered!
A good stretch at home sorted out any residual stiffness from my legs.
I'm going to get up and spin in the morning. Got to keep up with the bigman!
The Ironman and Bigman focus on World Masters Games in 2060
Never too old to go for gold: Bearded barefoot runner and 100-year-old shot-putter competing at the World Masters Games
This is the headline from today's Mailonline which has inspired them to Cape Epic, infinity, and beyond!
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1219625/World-Masters-Games-Golden-oldies-young-uns-done.html#ixzz0Te2d9aOX
This is the headline from today's Mailonline which has inspired them to Cape Epic, infinity, and beyond!
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1219625/World-Masters-Games-Golden-oldies-young-uns-done.html#ixzz0Te2d9aOX
Bigman's secret sortie
Bigman had mild scare yesterday in the Bus Museum Sprint, as The Fit One kept the drive up for a sustained period and has clearly been gaining in fitness with all his tandem cycling.
This afternoon provided a perfect opportunity to put in a secret solo training shift with The Wee Yin requiring to polish up an essay due for submission this week.
The target destination was Col du Cleish, ou to the MilkBar at Powmill, and back over Mont VeKnockhill. It was a pleasant sunny afternoon with a fresh breeze out of the north west. Bigman lost himself in the countryside and could not recall the journey to the top of of the Col, except to pay hommage to the monuments erected for The Gruesome Twosome's contribution to Tandem Cycling bt Loch Fitone.
From the top of Cleish all of the evidence necessary to demonstrate the changing season was laid bare before you. A patchwork quilt of fields; some green, some still full of golden barley, some freshly cut with stubble remaining and some already ploughed ready for planting. The passing clouds provided an alternative palet of colour as the clouds flew past overhead. And all this had a backdrop of the blue skies and trees turning from green to brown with a carpet of crisp leaves covering the roadway ahead. Majestic!
After flying down the North Face, the journey along to Crook of Devon was its usual testy self with a robust wind seeking to push you back from whence you had come. The imagery of carrot cake drove the Bigman on to the refreshment stop at Powmill in under 60 minutes.
The climb back up and over Mont VeKnockhill was straight forward albeit a bit scary with the Knockhill Motor Racing Circuit emptying and spectators leaving and seeking to re-live their heroes as they imitate Louis Hamilton on the road from Knockhill to Powmill. I suppose they see the white lines as a guide to cornering, something to keep between your wheels. A bit like a life size Scalextric track. Only you don't find too many cyclists on a Scalextric track!
The clock was showing Mont VeKnockhill scaled and descended in 25 minutes and so a wee personal challenge was set to get back to Dunfermline within 30 minutes. After 29:54 minutes since leaving Powmill, the Dunfermlne limits were past. Result.
A cheeky wee 28 miles extra bringing the weekend total to 90 miles.
This afternoon provided a perfect opportunity to put in a secret solo training shift with The Wee Yin requiring to polish up an essay due for submission this week.
The target destination was Col du Cleish, ou to the MilkBar at Powmill, and back over Mont VeKnockhill. It was a pleasant sunny afternoon with a fresh breeze out of the north west. Bigman lost himself in the countryside and could not recall the journey to the top of of the Col, except to pay hommage to the monuments erected for The Gruesome Twosome's contribution to Tandem Cycling bt Loch Fitone.
From the top of Cleish all of the evidence necessary to demonstrate the changing season was laid bare before you. A patchwork quilt of fields; some green, some still full of golden barley, some freshly cut with stubble remaining and some already ploughed ready for planting. The passing clouds provided an alternative palet of colour as the clouds flew past overhead. And all this had a backdrop of the blue skies and trees turning from green to brown with a carpet of crisp leaves covering the roadway ahead. Majestic!
After flying down the North Face, the journey along to Crook of Devon was its usual testy self with a robust wind seeking to push you back from whence you had come. The imagery of carrot cake drove the Bigman on to the refreshment stop at Powmill in under 60 minutes.
The climb back up and over Mont VeKnockhill was straight forward albeit a bit scary with the Knockhill Motor Racing Circuit emptying and spectators leaving and seeking to re-live their heroes as they imitate Louis Hamilton on the road from Knockhill to Powmill. I suppose they see the white lines as a guide to cornering, something to keep between your wheels. A bit like a life size Scalextric track. Only you don't find too many cyclists on a Scalextric track!
The clock was showing Mont VeKnockhill scaled and descended in 25 minutes and so a wee personal challenge was set to get back to Dunfermline within 30 minutes. After 29:54 minutes since leaving Powmill, the Dunfermlne limits were past. Result.
A cheeky wee 28 miles extra bringing the weekend total to 90 miles.
The good, the bad, and the ugly ride out ..........
Saturday was forecast to be brilliant blue skies with a light breeze emanating from the south west. So it was with disappointment, that The Fit One, The Ironman, and Bigman, climbed Mont VeKnockhill in a mist ridden barren landscape. The only thing missing from a spaghetti western scene was the lack of tumbleweed bouncing across the landscape.
The Ironman, once more regaled his pardners with stories of glorious victory in the previous week's marathon. His legs had recovered magnificently after a fine sub 4 hour time. The Fit One was in fighting form pushing ahead at every opportunity.
At Yetts of Muckart, the team turned into one of Scotland's finest glens towards Dunning. It is a steady climb that passed in no time as the guys chatted away the miles. Bigman tried to encourage Ironman to tell them once again about his sub 4 hour marathon epic however The Ironman felt enough excitement had been shared for one day.
As the team dropped into Dunning and headed along the valley floor, the sun started to burst through and the forecast promised for the day became a reality. The entrance to Perth through Cheerybank goes past a building that used to be a regional office for a bank that once employed Bigman. All that is left is a pile of rubble. His mind mused how ironic that a pile of rubble can tell the story of something that had once been a pillar of stability and now does not exist! The cycle lane into Perth is good however it is full of debris and could do with being cleaned. The Fit One who hails from Social Services was impressed and surprised to find the Perth Cleansing Department emptying bins at the weekend what with the tough economic climate and the resultant impact on budgets.
The Mustard Seed Restaurant next to Lidl was the choice of carbing stop. The fayre is excellent and at a reasonable cost. Just what you need for the next 30 miles back to Dunfie. The team raced up the hill out of Perth and glided down to Bridge of Earn before blasting along to the climb up through Glanfarg in team formation with The Fit One taking the brunt of the wind. A good pace was established up through Glenfarg with The Fit One, once again, doing the work of the domestique as the 'holidaymakers' in the peleton enjoyed the view from behind
It is surprising the confidence individual riders take from being paced up a climb. The Ironman had mentioned the pacer in his marathon story ( double meaning intended!) and it is the same in cycling. The Ironman did the same for Bigman when he set the Aberdour Ascent record at less than 4 minutes earlier this year.
Flying through Milnathort, the North Face of the iconic Col du Cleish was upon hte guys. With almost 800 bloggers now following this site, it was no surprise to meet 4 foreigners from Newcastle who had travelled up overnight to climb the famous Col du Cleish route and experience the views over Loch Leven and beyond for them themselves. They were rewarded with a meeting with the posse who provided signed autographs and photographs before thy continued on their way to Freuchie. Home of the Singing Kettle.
On the return over Cleish, hommage was paid to the monument to the Gruesome Twosome for their contribution to yandem cycling, before entering into the race zone. The Fit One was declaring ' no race' as he had suffered a bout of 'bonking' on the North Face. Aye Right! thought Bigman. The mind games had begun. The Ironman was dismissive of his own performance before it had begun. One more Aye Right thought Bigman.
And then the Fit One began to ease forward, increasing the pace with each turn of the pedals. The Bigman had enough time to react and pushed ovver the virtual line with a wheel to spare.
A great day and a superb 100km closer to the Cape Eic.
The Ironman, once more regaled his pardners with stories of glorious victory in the previous week's marathon. His legs had recovered magnificently after a fine sub 4 hour time. The Fit One was in fighting form pushing ahead at every opportunity.
At Yetts of Muckart, the team turned into one of Scotland's finest glens towards Dunning. It is a steady climb that passed in no time as the guys chatted away the miles. Bigman tried to encourage Ironman to tell them once again about his sub 4 hour marathon epic however The Ironman felt enough excitement had been shared for one day.
As the team dropped into Dunning and headed along the valley floor, the sun started to burst through and the forecast promised for the day became a reality. The entrance to Perth through Cheerybank goes past a building that used to be a regional office for a bank that once employed Bigman. All that is left is a pile of rubble. His mind mused how ironic that a pile of rubble can tell the story of something that had once been a pillar of stability and now does not exist! The cycle lane into Perth is good however it is full of debris and could do with being cleaned. The Fit One who hails from Social Services was impressed and surprised to find the Perth Cleansing Department emptying bins at the weekend what with the tough economic climate and the resultant impact on budgets.
The Mustard Seed Restaurant next to Lidl was the choice of carbing stop. The fayre is excellent and at a reasonable cost. Just what you need for the next 30 miles back to Dunfie. The team raced up the hill out of Perth and glided down to Bridge of Earn before blasting along to the climb up through Glanfarg in team formation with The Fit One taking the brunt of the wind. A good pace was established up through Glenfarg with The Fit One, once again, doing the work of the domestique as the 'holidaymakers' in the peleton enjoyed the view from behind
It is surprising the confidence individual riders take from being paced up a climb. The Ironman had mentioned the pacer in his marathon story ( double meaning intended!) and it is the same in cycling. The Ironman did the same for Bigman when he set the Aberdour Ascent record at less than 4 minutes earlier this year.
Flying through Milnathort, the North Face of the iconic Col du Cleish was upon hte guys. With almost 800 bloggers now following this site, it was no surprise to meet 4 foreigners from Newcastle who had travelled up overnight to climb the famous Col du Cleish route and experience the views over Loch Leven and beyond for them themselves. They were rewarded with a meeting with the posse who provided signed autographs and photographs before thy continued on their way to Freuchie. Home of the Singing Kettle.
On the return over Cleish, hommage was paid to the monument to the Gruesome Twosome for their contribution to yandem cycling, before entering into the race zone. The Fit One was declaring ' no race' as he had suffered a bout of 'bonking' on the North Face. Aye Right! thought Bigman. The mind games had begun. The Ironman was dismissive of his own performance before it had begun. One more Aye Right thought Bigman.
And then the Fit One began to ease forward, increasing the pace with each turn of the pedals. The Bigman had enough time to react and pushed ovver the virtual line with a wheel to spare.
A great day and a superb 100km closer to the Cape Eic.
Saturday 10 October 2009
Three amigo's ride out.....
It was cloudy and cool. The opposite of my rather optimistic forecast - clear blue skies and sunny. My days in the weather office are numbered.
We met at the usual junction and I was joined by the Bigman and the Fit One. There was no wind and we climbed Knockhill fairly effortlessly with the Fit One leading the way and on a mission. Bigman and I trailed behind sharing our stories of the week that was. They must be sick of my marathon story but I gave them yet another rendition just in case they had forgotten any of it!
The roads were quiet which allowed us to ride together and enjoy the craic. The weekly bike ride is a good laugh as well as an attempt to get fitter. We know each pretty well and poke fun at each other with ease.
The route up to Perth is pretty lumpy with Knockhill, Dunning and a final climb up to Perth all included in the route. We reached the cafe hungry and in need of coffee or earl grey tea.
The route home was up Glenfarg and then over Cleish. At the top of Cleish we bumped into 4 lads who had driven up from Newcastle and were cycling from the Forth Road Bridge to Fruichie to watch the footie in the pub and have a few beers. The Bigman did the honours with the camera and I regret not asking for a copy for the blog. Bikers come in all shapes and sizes and it's just such a great thing to do. They will be good mates and even better after this weekend.
The weekly sprint to the Bus museum was won by the Bigman. The Fit One went to early and as ever I wasn't at the races.
I ground the last few miles out after parting company with the guys at the usual turn off and finished up with 103km on the clock.
Another happy day spent with good friends. It was fab.....
It's the Ironman world champs today in Kona - tonight will be spent checking the progress of a couple of friends who are racing. They have done amazingly to qualify. I may be an ironman but I don't get close to operating at world champ level.....
Yet!
Friday 9 October 2009
Hey Bigman ....................... get on your bike!
This week for Bigman has had more less fantastic days than it has had fantastic days. It is good to have a PMA (Positive Mental Attitude)and look for the good purpose that may come from events outwith your control. It does not remove that sagging feeling the instant you are faced with a less than positive surprise.
Amongst the events of the week, Bigman missed the outing with the posse on Wednesday evening. He did have some spare time on Thrsday evening however made the fatal mistake of sitting down on arriving home. Feeling 'cream crackered' the thought of going out on the bike was not one that filled him to overflowing with enthusiasm.
However he did need to put out some freshly flat but not packed wardrobes to be picked up by 'engineers' from the Council Cleansing Department. It was a fine night and took about 30 minutes and felt really good to be purposeful. It has been written that what you think, drives what you feel, and in turn drives how you act.
With that thought, on returning home tonight, he seized the opportunity to do a 20 mile dash up Col du Cleish. He felt great. He felt so good he did not even notice as he crested the climb and was half way down the North Face before realizing he had to be home soon for a prior engagement. Unphased he sped down to the foot of the cliff face, turned around and turned the pedals to ascend the north face. It is amazing how cycling can be cathartic as an exercise, clearing the head, and allowing rest emotionally even if the exercise is draining physically.
On the return journey past the entry to Yellowstone Country Park, alongside Fitone Loch, a couple of busts have been erected as monuments to the Gruesome Twosome for their contribution to tandem cycling. They should be extremely proud to be recognised for their contribution. A photo of the busts will appear soon on these pages.
Bigman felt on fire. As he passed through the 30 mile an hour sign in Townhill, the speeding sign registered a deep red 36 miles per hour. It would have been impressive, if only he was not passed seconds later by a speeding motorist.
Tomorrow, the forecast is for a fine and dry day and the posse is heading to Perth, ...........Scotland. It is appreciated the distances are gaining weekly however Perth Australia is a big ask, even for a fit Ironman, to complete as a Saturay morning outing.
Amongst the events of the week, Bigman missed the outing with the posse on Wednesday evening. He did have some spare time on Thrsday evening however made the fatal mistake of sitting down on arriving home. Feeling 'cream crackered' the thought of going out on the bike was not one that filled him to overflowing with enthusiasm.
However he did need to put out some freshly flat but not packed wardrobes to be picked up by 'engineers' from the Council Cleansing Department. It was a fine night and took about 30 minutes and felt really good to be purposeful. It has been written that what you think, drives what you feel, and in turn drives how you act.
With that thought, on returning home tonight, he seized the opportunity to do a 20 mile dash up Col du Cleish. He felt great. He felt so good he did not even notice as he crested the climb and was half way down the North Face before realizing he had to be home soon for a prior engagement. Unphased he sped down to the foot of the cliff face, turned around and turned the pedals to ascend the north face. It is amazing how cycling can be cathartic as an exercise, clearing the head, and allowing rest emotionally even if the exercise is draining physically.
On the return journey past the entry to Yellowstone Country Park, alongside Fitone Loch, a couple of busts have been erected as monuments to the Gruesome Twosome for their contribution to tandem cycling. They should be extremely proud to be recognised for their contribution. A photo of the busts will appear soon on these pages.
Bigman felt on fire. As he passed through the 30 mile an hour sign in Townhill, the speeding sign registered a deep red 36 miles per hour. It would have been impressive, if only he was not passed seconds later by a speeding motorist.
Tomorrow, the forecast is for a fine and dry day and the posse is heading to Perth, ...........Scotland. It is appreciated the distances are gaining weekly however Perth Australia is a big ask, even for a fit Ironman, to complete as a Saturay morning outing.
The worst £62 I ever spent.......
This story goes back a few years. I'd not long finished Ironman Austria and was in the peak of fitness but a bit short of cash....
Buccleuch, an Edinburgh property developer were organising their annual challenge at the Buccleuch Estate near Dumfries. I'd entered a team. I pulled together a top squad with 3 excellent althletes and me. As time marched on thoughts turned to my mountain bike. I had a very old specialised with no suspension, terrible brakes and a limited selection of gears.
Time was running out. I'd not long before spent nearly £1000 on my Trek road bike and I didn't think another investment of that scale would be approved by Moonwalker aka the banker. So I turned to the source of many a bargain and many a con - ebay. I scoured the mountain bikes occasionally bidding but always missing out, my budget was very limited. Then genius, look at the cheaper new bikes that have all the kit. After some research albeit limited and through tinted glasses I found a chinese manufactured 27 speed bike that claimed to retail at £300. It was the answer - there was still time to get it delivered and built in advance of the race. I bid on one and missed it. Bid on a second and missed it. Bid on a third and held my nerve to win the high tension steel beasty. If it was high tension I was in a state of very high tension. I couldn't believe it had disc brakes and everything including delivery for £62! A bargain.
Two days later the door bell rang. I knew it was the bike. You could taste the excitment in the air. My first nervous twitch started when the delivery man asked if I'd give him a hand lifting the parcel.....can't be that heavy I thought....
We slid it into the kitchen and I ripped the box apart to get the first sight of my racing steed. It was in bits. There was an A4 sheet of instructions and that was it so I started to rebuild the 6,000 penny bike. It was fairly straightforward apart from breaking the rear disc brake mechanism. I wiped the sweat off my brow and took my first look at the finished bike - it looked great. All the bits had fitted, at a push and apart from the 5 or 6 bits left in the kitchen I thought I was on to a winner.
The day of the race was a stunner. My bike looked shinier and more sparkly than all the other bikes in the line up for pre-race safety check. I was nervous of the check as I'd build it myself but I figured the marshall would put right any of the things I'd done wrong. He checked it and then looked at me, looked back at the bike and passed it as road worthy, just. The frame was out of alignment and very cheap he advised with one back stay longer than the other. He thought it might last the day but didn't give any guarantees....
The race was a nightmare. I was fit, very fit but the bike weighed an absolute tonne. We arrived at a point where we had to cross a ravine and the marshall lifting the bikes was amazed at the weigh of my steed.
At the end of the race both the bike and I were knackered. Things began falling off fairly early in the day and the cheap gears failed to respond to the rough terrain. The further into the race the fewer gears worked making the trip even less enjoyable.
I took the bike home and broke it up for spares for my other bikes deciding to re-build the Specialised with the bits I could steal off the donkey. I still have some spare parts so if the Fit One is after a Chinese crank I'm sure that he'll find one available in my shed!
I think we finished in a reasonable position despite the bike. As Lance would say 'It's not about the bike'.....
Buccleuch, an Edinburgh property developer were organising their annual challenge at the Buccleuch Estate near Dumfries. I'd entered a team. I pulled together a top squad with 3 excellent althletes and me. As time marched on thoughts turned to my mountain bike. I had a very old specialised with no suspension, terrible brakes and a limited selection of gears.
Time was running out. I'd not long before spent nearly £1000 on my Trek road bike and I didn't think another investment of that scale would be approved by Moonwalker aka the banker. So I turned to the source of many a bargain and many a con - ebay. I scoured the mountain bikes occasionally bidding but always missing out, my budget was very limited. Then genius, look at the cheaper new bikes that have all the kit. After some research albeit limited and through tinted glasses I found a chinese manufactured 27 speed bike that claimed to retail at £300. It was the answer - there was still time to get it delivered and built in advance of the race. I bid on one and missed it. Bid on a second and missed it. Bid on a third and held my nerve to win the high tension steel beasty. If it was high tension I was in a state of very high tension. I couldn't believe it had disc brakes and everything including delivery for £62! A bargain.
Two days later the door bell rang. I knew it was the bike. You could taste the excitment in the air. My first nervous twitch started when the delivery man asked if I'd give him a hand lifting the parcel.....can't be that heavy I thought....
We slid it into the kitchen and I ripped the box apart to get the first sight of my racing steed. It was in bits. There was an A4 sheet of instructions and that was it so I started to rebuild the 6,000 penny bike. It was fairly straightforward apart from breaking the rear disc brake mechanism. I wiped the sweat off my brow and took my first look at the finished bike - it looked great. All the bits had fitted, at a push and apart from the 5 or 6 bits left in the kitchen I thought I was on to a winner.
The day of the race was a stunner. My bike looked shinier and more sparkly than all the other bikes in the line up for pre-race safety check. I was nervous of the check as I'd build it myself but I figured the marshall would put right any of the things I'd done wrong. He checked it and then looked at me, looked back at the bike and passed it as road worthy, just. The frame was out of alignment and very cheap he advised with one back stay longer than the other. He thought it might last the day but didn't give any guarantees....
The race was a nightmare. I was fit, very fit but the bike weighed an absolute tonne. We arrived at a point where we had to cross a ravine and the marshall lifting the bikes was amazed at the weigh of my steed.
At the end of the race both the bike and I were knackered. Things began falling off fairly early in the day and the cheap gears failed to respond to the rough terrain. The further into the race the fewer gears worked making the trip even less enjoyable.
I took the bike home and broke it up for spares for my other bikes deciding to re-build the Specialised with the bits I could steal off the donkey. I still have some spare parts so if the Fit One is after a Chinese crank I'm sure that he'll find one available in my shed!
I think we finished in a reasonable position despite the bike. As Lance would say 'It's not about the bike'.....
Thursday 8 October 2009
The Outlaw.....
Well this is not the story of my criminal past and I'm not in need of the Duracell's legal talent.
The Cape Epic will be done and dusted by the end of March next year and I know that I'll be kicking my heels at the end of the race. I'm the sort of bloke that needs a target, usually a big target and post Cape Epic I will be the same.
I was pottering about the internet and thinking about entering Ironman UK next year. Ironman branded races are brilliantly organised and come with the logo. They are not however the only Ironman distance triathlon events and there is a new non Ironman branded long distance triathlon in Nottingham called the Outlaw.
The Outlaw sounds like my kind of race - I'm not stuck on the IM label so I've decided to give this one a go. Moonwalker has kindly offered to make it my birthday present and I'm really pleased. She did mention that there are not many people that would be happy with a present that you have to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and then run a marathon to collect! That doesn't include the training....
My legs finally feel like normal today. I'm going to spin and run in the morning to test the recovery. I'm hoping that things will get back to normal quickly. I've missed not training this week.
I watched a programme tonight about 4 biggish ladies who were trained by the British cycling team in an effort to lose weight. It wasn't so much training based but seemed to be mind based. I'm pretty convinced that most things are played in the mind. Obviously for sports you need to put in the training and have the necessary skills but a strong mind will get you through many challenges. I have challenges with my eating patterns in that I love cakes and sweet stuff. The pyscologist on the show talked about the inner chimp - I must have an inner ape!!
Looking forward to getting out on the bike this weekend....
The Cape Epic will be done and dusted by the end of March next year and I know that I'll be kicking my heels at the end of the race. I'm the sort of bloke that needs a target, usually a big target and post Cape Epic I will be the same.
I was pottering about the internet and thinking about entering Ironman UK next year. Ironman branded races are brilliantly organised and come with the logo. They are not however the only Ironman distance triathlon events and there is a new non Ironman branded long distance triathlon in Nottingham called the Outlaw.
The Outlaw sounds like my kind of race - I'm not stuck on the IM label so I've decided to give this one a go. Moonwalker has kindly offered to make it my birthday present and I'm really pleased. She did mention that there are not many people that would be happy with a present that you have to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and then run a marathon to collect! That doesn't include the training....
My legs finally feel like normal today. I'm going to spin and run in the morning to test the recovery. I'm hoping that things will get back to normal quickly. I've missed not training this week.
I watched a programme tonight about 4 biggish ladies who were trained by the British cycling team in an effort to lose weight. It wasn't so much training based but seemed to be mind based. I'm pretty convinced that most things are played in the mind. Obviously for sports you need to put in the training and have the necessary skills but a strong mind will get you through many challenges. I have challenges with my eating patterns in that I love cakes and sweet stuff. The pyscologist on the show talked about the inner chimp - I must have an inner ape!!
Looking forward to getting out on the bike this weekend....
Wednesday 7 October 2009
The Fit One's power pummels pedal
It was billed as an open event to anyone who was remotely connected with the posse to come and try 'Cycing under the stars'. Climbing Col du Cleish for those who may not be entirely confident cycling in the dark ........... except for lights, of course.
Turns out to be not a great night to launch. The Ironman was still recovering from his fantastic time in the Loch Ness Marathon. Junior II was unable to provide the engineroom for the Creepy Coupe, Santiago was otherwise engaged, The Duracell has not yet got energy back from the weekend,meaning the Ant Hill Mob would not be present on Chugga Boom and to top it all, Bigman having made a dash for the 17.00 train from Glasgow to get home in plenty time, got stuck on a train that broke down 7minutes after leaving Queen Street Station and did not get home until almost 3 hours later. Lady Luck ws not having a good evening .......... so far.
On the positive side, The Fit One led the posse well accompanied by The Marathon Man, who was trialling his inaugural journey under the stars. In addition an un-named alias joined the posse for the first time. On the basis he makes a return visit next Wednesday, an appropriate alias shall be awarded.
The night was superb with a carpet of stars showing Perth and Kinross. It was not too cold at 10 degrees and a great night was had by all.
And Lady Luck continued to be postied missing. The Fit One demonstrated his Jan Ullricht style of cycling by pushing so hard on th pedal he managed to sheer it off. Not to be discouraged, and in an Ironman sort of way, he pedalled manfully with one leg back to Dunfermline.
What a hero. It will no doubt have built even greater strength for next week when the Creepy Coupe returns.
Turns out to be not a great night to launch. The Ironman was still recovering from his fantastic time in the Loch Ness Marathon. Junior II was unable to provide the engineroom for the Creepy Coupe, Santiago was otherwise engaged, The Duracell has not yet got energy back from the weekend,meaning the Ant Hill Mob would not be present on Chugga Boom and to top it all, Bigman having made a dash for the 17.00 train from Glasgow to get home in plenty time, got stuck on a train that broke down 7minutes after leaving Queen Street Station and did not get home until almost 3 hours later. Lady Luck ws not having a good evening .......... so far.
On the positive side, The Fit One led the posse well accompanied by The Marathon Man, who was trialling his inaugural journey under the stars. In addition an un-named alias joined the posse for the first time. On the basis he makes a return visit next Wednesday, an appropriate alias shall be awarded.
The night was superb with a carpet of stars showing Perth and Kinross. It was not too cold at 10 degrees and a great night was had by all.
And Lady Luck continued to be postied missing. The Fit One demonstrated his Jan Ullricht style of cycling by pushing so hard on th pedal he managed to sheer it off. Not to be discouraged, and in an Ironman sort of way, he pedalled manfully with one leg back to Dunfermline.
What a hero. It will no doubt have built even greater strength for next week when the Creepy Coupe returns.
Tuesday 6 October 2009
Run fat (old) boy run
The famous Macleod shuffle.....
I'm on the far left with both feet welded to the ground. Just before the picture my pacer, Straycelt, had turned round and suggested I pick my feet up - obviously his cajoling had little impact!
Monday 5 October 2009
A monster marathon
Ever since I started running I had a desire to race in the town I grew up in. This weekend provided my date with destiny. The Loch Ness Marathon.
Duracell has done LN before (I think) and yesterday was my chance to take on the 26.2 mile monster. We drove to Inverness from the hotel in Nairn. The car bounced as we chatted nervously about our race plans. There was four of us in the car KKD, the dark knight, barfy crampo and myself. We all had our own hopes and ambitions and were excited at the prospect of what lay ahead.
Traffic was mad so we parked up sort of the start and walked to the buses. No room on the buses - we queued along with a few other hardy but cold souls. Eventually we were told to get on and stand on a bus. As you can imagine, standing on a bus for an hour and a bit is not great prep for the race. To conserve the legs we sat on the floor, on the steps and in the luggage racks. The chaos continued on embarkation. The buses weren't moving and hoardes of runners were milling around getting colder by the second.
Soon we were off. The start was downhill. I was being paced by a good friend called Straycelt - a Scottish wanderer living in Wales. The course was at best undulating and at worst blooming hilly.
We started at 9 minute per mile pace and carried on at that. The sun was shining, Loch Ness was sparkling and running was a joy. We reached the half way point bang on target 1:57 ish. Straycelt knew within a second how far ahead or behind schedule we were at any given point - he was a fantastic pacer. During the second half we started passing other runners who had told us that they were also targeting a sub 4 time - they had blown up by starting too fast and were struggling with energy levels dropping.
We picked up the pace to 8:30 per mile. The strategy was going well. My foot which had been causing such problems had been fixed by Peter the Podiatrist in Dunfermline on the Friday before the race - a genuine miracle worker! There was no pain from my foot.
At 19 miles I flagged briefly - took on my final gel and got moving again. I was going fine - the crowds were building as we reached a sun soaked Inverness. I was on target.
Then like the dementor's in Harry Potter the life was sucked out of me. My legs felt like lead and I was shuffling along finding it hard to lift my feet. My pacer encouraged me every step of the way. I was moving as fast as the slow motion scene from Chariots of Fire! I could hear the music as I shuffled past the Bught Park. The last mile was still slow but as we finally turned the last corner we cranked up the pace and sprinted at a cantor to the finish. 3.56.35 - I'd broken the 4 hour barrier and finished 885 out of the 3000 entrants. Dead chuffed!
The race was done. Straycelt had finished his 27th marathon and told me it was the hilliest he had done - a PB on a monster course. I got quite emotional on the phone to Waverider - funny how the combination of exhaustion and energy depletion brings out your emotions.
Yesterday was fab - I really enjoyed the whole experience. Barfy Crampo finished in 3:50 - a fantastic 1st marathon effort. KKD, the dark knight and U-Kaz rolled in together in an excellent time having really enjoyed the run.
Dinner after was great fun as we shared our race stories. All up heading to home ground and achieving a PB was brilliant but to share the weekend with great people made it all the more special.
Life is good!
Sunday 4 October 2009
The Duracell runs out of 'juice'
After the turbulent storms of yesterday, Fife was in comparative calm today. The sun was shining and the sky was blue, a great day for bagging some more cyccling miles.
With the bridge run abandoned yesterday, the posse opted to make a second bid for freedom from Fife. In the posse today, included The Fit One, Bigman, The Wee Yin, The Doc and The Duracell freshly energised from two days golfing. The storms led to the cancellation of the Dunhill Cup but, living up to the brand, the Duracell kept playing.
As the posse crossed into Lothians, the yachts were cruising below on the forth and several people were walking the mile long bridge for a Sunday afternoon stroll. The posse was heading for The Bistro Restaurant on the banks of the Union canal near to Linlithgow. As the team turned off the main road there is a slight rise up to the railway bridge, always a favourite spot for a bit of jousting as you race for the top. The Duracell on the Dawes Tourer, feeling fresh and energised from his golf, edged forward and was a half a wheel in front before the Bigman and The Fit One responded. It was as if someone forgot to put 50p in the meter and the lights of the challenge were extinguished. But this would not be the last dash for the line by The Duracell.
As shot of caffeine and malteser cake in the Bistro and the team were back on the road. But not before a text came through from the Ironman confirming his time at The Loch Ness MArathon. He will make public announcement later however, it is a brilliant time.
A breeze from the west carried the team back to Winchburgh and a left hand turn on to the link road with Newton. It was on the downhill, The Duracell saw the opportunity to make for a dash once again. What was less visible at that point was the rise after going under the M9. The Bigman and The Fit One agreed to let him build a lead as we would see him shortly. And so it came to pass, as the climb came into view, The Duracell nonchalantly eased off the gas in a sort of 'I didn't really mean to build a lead' sort of way.( ........... and hoping no-one would notice!)
As most were heading back to go out to five a sides, The Duracell opted to give the Mont Masterton a miss and take the direct route home. The remainder of the posse powered up the ascent as if it did not exist. Malteser cake can have that effect on you.
Another great day out and 56 kilometres nearer the Cape Epic.
With the bridge run abandoned yesterday, the posse opted to make a second bid for freedom from Fife. In the posse today, included The Fit One, Bigman, The Wee Yin, The Doc and The Duracell freshly energised from two days golfing. The storms led to the cancellation of the Dunhill Cup but, living up to the brand, the Duracell kept playing.
As the posse crossed into Lothians, the yachts were cruising below on the forth and several people were walking the mile long bridge for a Sunday afternoon stroll. The posse was heading for The Bistro Restaurant on the banks of the Union canal near to Linlithgow. As the team turned off the main road there is a slight rise up to the railway bridge, always a favourite spot for a bit of jousting as you race for the top. The Duracell on the Dawes Tourer, feeling fresh and energised from his golf, edged forward and was a half a wheel in front before the Bigman and The Fit One responded. It was as if someone forgot to put 50p in the meter and the lights of the challenge were extinguished. But this would not be the last dash for the line by The Duracell.
As shot of caffeine and malteser cake in the Bistro and the team were back on the road. But not before a text came through from the Ironman confirming his time at The Loch Ness MArathon. He will make public announcement later however, it is a brilliant time.
A breeze from the west carried the team back to Winchburgh and a left hand turn on to the link road with Newton. It was on the downhill, The Duracell saw the opportunity to make for a dash once again. What was less visible at that point was the rise after going under the M9. The Bigman and The Fit One agreed to let him build a lead as we would see him shortly. And so it came to pass, as the climb came into view, The Duracell nonchalantly eased off the gas in a sort of 'I didn't really mean to build a lead' sort of way.( ........... and hoping no-one would notice!)
As most were heading back to go out to five a sides, The Duracell opted to give the Mont Masterton a miss and take the direct route home. The remainder of the posse powered up the ascent as if it did not exist. Malteser cake can have that effect on you.
Another great day out and 56 kilometres nearer the Cape Epic.
Saturday 3 October 2009
Biking Bagatelle
With The Ironman on athletic duty in Inverness this weekend the posse was reduced to the Fit One and Bigman. The original plan had been to do the two bridges route across the Forth Bridge, along to the Kincardine Bridge and back along through Culross.
The weather had a different idea. With storm force winds overnight, and forecast to continue into the morning, the Forth Bridge was closed to high sided vehilces (Bigman) cyclists and pedestrians.
Instead the pair headed east, along the coastal route to Kirkaldy. With storm force winds behind them it was no time before they arrived at Kirkaldy. The views of a turbulent River Forth were magnificent against a blue sky. Any precipitation was past in a flash.
The coffee stop was to take in a bit of culture in the art museum in the centre of Kircaldy with some very fine carrot cake. The taking on of water was also welcomed by Bigman who had enjoyed a fantastic evening with the Wingman at the Dunfermline Beer Festival which was accompanied by two superb local rock bands playing cover tunes. The plan had been to use the evening for re-hydration, however, the range of beers sampled apppeared not to carry the right level of hydration. At least the carb content would be useful.
It was predictable that the return head in to the Westerly wind over the rising and undulating road to Auchtertool was going to be a challenge of mind over matter. Every turn of the pedal was a turn nearer the crest of the climb.
Leaves rushed towards the guys at phenominal speed hopping, skipping, and jumping along the roadside almost laughing at two cyclists competing against the elements. It felt like being a ball in a game of bagatelle as the swirling winds bounced them around at will. Several broken branches brough extra challenge along the roadside.
Another motorist had clearly had a bad experience the previous night as their Vauxhall Corsa adorned a field of barley.
It was a great relief to crest the final climb with a bit of a downhill. The smoke from Mossmoran had barely cleared the stack before it accelarated horizontally and out into the North Sea. So far we had escaped the rain. And then it came. Short sharp, pin like iced droplets driving into the cheeks. This is going to be along winter.
The Fit One and Bigman are definitely not envious of the Ironman and his marathon run tomorrow.
Another 60km closer to teh Cape Epic all of 23 weeks away. A great run with great scenery but not in a time to write home about. The Fit One, always the optimist, reckoned today would build character for teh dark moments in South Africa. Only time will tell.
The weather had a different idea. With storm force winds overnight, and forecast to continue into the morning, the Forth Bridge was closed to high sided vehilces (Bigman) cyclists and pedestrians.
Instead the pair headed east, along the coastal route to Kirkaldy. With storm force winds behind them it was no time before they arrived at Kirkaldy. The views of a turbulent River Forth were magnificent against a blue sky. Any precipitation was past in a flash.
The coffee stop was to take in a bit of culture in the art museum in the centre of Kircaldy with some very fine carrot cake. The taking on of water was also welcomed by Bigman who had enjoyed a fantastic evening with the Wingman at the Dunfermline Beer Festival which was accompanied by two superb local rock bands playing cover tunes. The plan had been to use the evening for re-hydration, however, the range of beers sampled apppeared not to carry the right level of hydration. At least the carb content would be useful.
It was predictable that the return head in to the Westerly wind over the rising and undulating road to Auchtertool was going to be a challenge of mind over matter. Every turn of the pedal was a turn nearer the crest of the climb.
Leaves rushed towards the guys at phenominal speed hopping, skipping, and jumping along the roadside almost laughing at two cyclists competing against the elements. It felt like being a ball in a game of bagatelle as the swirling winds bounced them around at will. Several broken branches brough extra challenge along the roadside.
Another motorist had clearly had a bad experience the previous night as their Vauxhall Corsa adorned a field of barley.
It was a great relief to crest the final climb with a bit of a downhill. The smoke from Mossmoran had barely cleared the stack before it accelarated horizontally and out into the North Sea. So far we had escaped the rain. And then it came. Short sharp, pin like iced droplets driving into the cheeks. This is going to be along winter.
The Fit One and Bigman are definitely not envious of the Ironman and his marathon run tomorrow.
Another 60km closer to teh Cape Epic all of 23 weeks away. A great run with great scenery but not in a time to write home about. The Fit One, always the optimist, reckoned today would build character for teh dark moments in South Africa. Only time will tell.
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