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Monday, 5 April 2010
............ and a celebration of a year of experience
Many have asked me the question - was it all worth it?
One year ago, my previous employer and I decided it was time to part company. The Epic Caper gave me a focus to train for a life experience should new employment not come my way in early course.
I was fortunate that new employment did come my way ( but not before a month cycling in the French Alps) and so the challenge of fitting training in with work and family commitments along with other stuff became an extra challenge.
The Epic Caper brought friends together frequently to enjoy the cycling experience and share 'war stories'.
Our 'victory send off' party turns out to have had more in common with Ally's Tartan Army Epic Caper than perhaps we had planned. Like the Scotland team of that era, you could say we left the Cape Epic undefeated!
But a lot of people had a great night and we raised almost £2000 for Aberlour Child Care Trust in doing it.
At the international party on the Friday night in Cape Town many participants were pleased to meet the Scottish contenders and the camaraderie amongst all competitors was fantastic.
The night after the crash, I would be taking spin too far to say I was anything other than severely disappointed, partially for everyone who had helped us on our journey. But accidents happen. The individual ( a Belgian) was very apologetic. It was after all an accident. Some might say the Scots were a serious threat and there was a plot to stop them winning at all costs. However this would too far a stretch for even a Jason Bourne assignment. It was an accident.
On reflection the next day, we were in South Africa, in the heart of the wine region, in 30 degrees plus. What is there to bemoan!
By the end of the week we had climbed a huge pass and cycled the route of the Argus Cycle race in cluding Marshalls Peak above, visited the end of Africa - the Cape of Good Hope, and seen some stunning scenery.
And so to the question - was it all worth it?
Most definitely.
Would I do it again - not a chance!
I hope to see all 2269 blog followers on the new site - Around the world in 80 (Satur) days, coming to a sceen near you
A Sad Farewell to the Epic Caper
It's just over a year since Bigman and I were fortunate to gain entry in the 'toughest mountain bike race in the world' and what a year it has been.
This will be my last post on the Epic Caper site (except for one more to send a link to the new blog site that we are about to start!) and I suppose that I wanted to reflect a little on what the year has meant to me personally.
It has been a year that I will remember and I have a terrible memory. From the first shout of excitement as Moonwalker won our entry to the disappointment of the crash and ultimately to the realisation that this wasn't about the Cape Epic as a race it was about us as people.
I have learned so much about myself during this past year. All the events I've done have been long distance solo efforts without a team mate. This race was the first I've done with a race partner. He may say with 12 months of experience that I should stick to the solo races!! The year also wasn't just about the 2 of us doing the race. In reality it could of been any 2 of the Posse travelling.
It's not all about the guys cycling. Our support crew with Wingman at the helm have been immense. Nothing too much trouble and wise council when required. The support and friendship that I personally have found around the group that I'm proud to call my friends has made the experience one of the best. You all know who you are and you are top people.
The experience of working as a team has really helped me in life. I have learned so much from the guys and girls who supported us riding out in the sun, rain, wind, hot (not often), cold (more often) and dark taught me about playing a team game and learning to hopefully be a better person as I move on. Time will tell on that one I suppose.
Bigman was a top team mate and great to be around. We gained an intuative knowledge during the year when to speed up or slow down based on how each other is feeling. It is interesting but you definitely have good and bad days on the bike - some days the legs are lead and others when preparation has been exactly the same are dreadful. So we worked together at the pace of the slowest with the Bigman dropping back to my pace or vice versa.
The encouragement of knowing that someone is watching for you is great and I think it's something that we have in the posse.
So on to a new challenge. There will be another blog with hopefully more contributors from the posse and something that we can all enjoy and take part in. I'll leave it to the Bigman to explain the detail and I'll do the techy bits and set up the Blog......
Link to follow.
Thank you all - it's been a blast!
John
This will be my last post on the Epic Caper site (except for one more to send a link to the new blog site that we are about to start!) and I suppose that I wanted to reflect a little on what the year has meant to me personally.
It has been a year that I will remember and I have a terrible memory. From the first shout of excitement as Moonwalker won our entry to the disappointment of the crash and ultimately to the realisation that this wasn't about the Cape Epic as a race it was about us as people.
I have learned so much about myself during this past year. All the events I've done have been long distance solo efforts without a team mate. This race was the first I've done with a race partner. He may say with 12 months of experience that I should stick to the solo races!! The year also wasn't just about the 2 of us doing the race. In reality it could of been any 2 of the Posse travelling.
It's not all about the guys cycling. Our support crew with Wingman at the helm have been immense. Nothing too much trouble and wise council when required. The support and friendship that I personally have found around the group that I'm proud to call my friends has made the experience one of the best. You all know who you are and you are top people.
The experience of working as a team has really helped me in life. I have learned so much from the guys and girls who supported us riding out in the sun, rain, wind, hot (not often), cold (more often) and dark taught me about playing a team game and learning to hopefully be a better person as I move on. Time will tell on that one I suppose.
Bigman was a top team mate and great to be around. We gained an intuative knowledge during the year when to speed up or slow down based on how each other is feeling. It is interesting but you definitely have good and bad days on the bike - some days the legs are lead and others when preparation has been exactly the same are dreadful. So we worked together at the pace of the slowest with the Bigman dropping back to my pace or vice versa.
The encouragement of knowing that someone is watching for you is great and I think it's something that we have in the posse.
So on to a new challenge. There will be another blog with hopefully more contributors from the posse and something that we can all enjoy and take part in. I'll leave it to the Bigman to explain the detail and I'll do the techy bits and set up the Blog......
Link to follow.
Thank you all - it's been a blast!
John
Tuesday, 30 March 2010
Sad farewell to Bigman...
Well Bigman is off to the airport uncertain of his flight and ultimate destination i.e. will he make it back to Edinburgh or be stuck in Heathrow.
It has been a fantastic caper and I suppose in some respects I owe him one. The fall with all it's pain and anguish at getting knocked out almost as we started, proved to be the making of an amzing week. We travelled and saw sights and places that will stick in the memory.
All negative thoughts were banished by our cycle around the Argus route. It was a roasting hot day and included a few monster climbs. Bigman was back on form pushing the pedals and pounding up the hills with ease. I had my usual puncture which we fixed on the Chapman's Paek climb and there are worse places to have to fix a puncture than looking out over Houts Bay.
This country is stunning. The people that we've met have been so welcoming and helpful. I love it.
We're over in a place called Swellendam staying in the funkiest guest house - it's amazing.
So we'll wish the Bigman a safe return and head off for the Epic Holiday part deux......
It has been a fantastic caper and I suppose in some respects I owe him one. The fall with all it's pain and anguish at getting knocked out almost as we started, proved to be the making of an amzing week. We travelled and saw sights and places that will stick in the memory.
All negative thoughts were banished by our cycle around the Argus route. It was a roasting hot day and included a few monster climbs. Bigman was back on form pushing the pedals and pounding up the hills with ease. I had my usual puncture which we fixed on the Chapman's Paek climb and there are worse places to have to fix a puncture than looking out over Houts Bay.
This country is stunning. The people that we've met have been so welcoming and helpful. I love it.
We're over in a place called Swellendam staying in the funkiest guest house - it's amazing.
So we'll wish the Bigman a safe return and head off for the Epic Holiday part deux......
Out of African adversity comes opportunity
It is Tuesday afternoon on a sunny Cape Town and Bigman awaits information on whether his BA flight tonight will be impacted by the strike. The Ironman has headed off with Moonwalker to the African Wilderness. We wonder whether the wilderness is ready!Today was always planned as a day for reflection. 20:20 hindsight shows the title of our adventure as wholly appropriate. It was indeed an epic caper.
As Bigman watched the cloud base known as 'the table cloth' move over table mountain against a scorching midday sun with the harbour area in front oozing with people and boats moving around each busy in their own lives, a Hagen Daz in hand, it is difficult not conclude this has indeed been an experience.
The people in South Africa have been fantastic, incredibly friendly, and always keen to assist.
The cycle around the Argus route (110km road bike race from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope and back with 30,000 participants in cluding Lance Armstrong run 2 weeks ago) on Sunday will be a memory that sticks with us both for an eternity. The climb up Chapmans Peak was awesome and the cliff side drops only served to dramatise and phenomenal vista. One of the many unplanned experiences on our epic caper.
Conclusions will be drawn on these pages over the coming days and the plans are already forming for next years Epic Caper which might include Around the World. For now it is time for Out of Africa ........................ maybe!
Monday, 29 March 2010
Franschoek - A hill of Alpine proportions....
Sadly the pictures will have to wait until I return but I did capture some good one's as Bigman's rehabilitation allowed a venture out on the bikes.
I go back to Friday. It was damp and cool as Bigman and I ventured out of our fab hotel and packed the bikes into the car. We've learned that nothing is safe in the car and therefore have become very skilled at stripping down and re-building bikes.
We set off to the foodies paradice of Franschoek. It's another stunning village at the base of another set of stunning hills. South Africa is similar to Scotland except we don't get the wide expanse of valley floor between imposing hills. The pass achieved 3 dots on the map and we were reliably advised by our host Nick that it was the toughest hill climb in the county. There was one other that was equally tough but he wasn't absolutely convinced the car would be there at the end of the hill climb so after a nano second's consideration the idea was consigned to the bin.
I wouldn't say that the Bigman was 100% but he was keen to try out the bits that were still causing discomfort. So we set off on a 1,800 feet ascent. It actually proved to be fairly simple but we both enjoyed getting out on the bikes and I'll forward the pictures later to show the hill and the climb.
The blast back down was great fun and we rolled up to the cafe with pancakes at the forefront of our minds. No pancakes. Disappointed tea and coffee was ordered.
We sat watching the rain fall on the bikes when a local walked past and did a double take on the numbers - we still have the Cape Epic numbers stuck to the bikes. He stopped and spoke to us at length about biking, the race and he was interested in our story. He was genuinely impressed that we had taken part. It didn't matter to him that it was only one day. What mattered was that we had made the start line and had taken part. It was a brilliant boost to the pair of us and when he shook our hands to leave our heads were held high and I certainly felt pride at what we achieved not only in racing but making the start.
We felt so encouraged we decided to go and find a pancake place. The Cape Epic has certainly added a few more pounds than anticipated!!!
I'll blog the story of the Argus Route tomorrow.....
I go back to Friday. It was damp and cool as Bigman and I ventured out of our fab hotel and packed the bikes into the car. We've learned that nothing is safe in the car and therefore have become very skilled at stripping down and re-building bikes.
We set off to the foodies paradice of Franschoek. It's another stunning village at the base of another set of stunning hills. South Africa is similar to Scotland except we don't get the wide expanse of valley floor between imposing hills. The pass achieved 3 dots on the map and we were reliably advised by our host Nick that it was the toughest hill climb in the county. There was one other that was equally tough but he wasn't absolutely convinced the car would be there at the end of the hill climb so after a nano second's consideration the idea was consigned to the bin.
I wouldn't say that the Bigman was 100% but he was keen to try out the bits that were still causing discomfort. So we set off on a 1,800 feet ascent. It actually proved to be fairly simple but we both enjoyed getting out on the bikes and I'll forward the pictures later to show the hill and the climb.
The blast back down was great fun and we rolled up to the cafe with pancakes at the forefront of our minds. No pancakes. Disappointed tea and coffee was ordered.
We sat watching the rain fall on the bikes when a local walked past and did a double take on the numbers - we still have the Cape Epic numbers stuck to the bikes. He stopped and spoke to us at length about biking, the race and he was interested in our story. He was genuinely impressed that we had taken part. It didn't matter to him that it was only one day. What mattered was that we had made the start line and had taken part. It was a brilliant boost to the pair of us and when he shook our hands to leave our heads were held high and I certainly felt pride at what we achieved not only in racing but making the start.
We felt so encouraged we decided to go and find a pancake place. The Cape Epic has certainly added a few more pounds than anticipated!!!
I'll blog the story of the Argus Route tomorrow.....
Thursday, 25 March 2010
In search of a classic grape....
Well Bigman and I headed out into the winelands with our wonderful guide, Ilene.
Ilene guided us round to 3 different wineries and made sure that we had a glass of red in our hands by 10.30am - a first for both of us I'm glad to say. We tasted a number of wines of all the different grape varieties that are grown in the regiona and learned much of the issues and challenges that this stunning country curently faces. We must of been the first Scots ever to limit the size of the samples provided and our hosts looked in shock as we stopped the liberal libation.
Our second stop was at a winery that offers specially made chocolate to compliment various wines that they produce. The first was a rich dark chocolate that was served with a shiraz, the second was a cabernet sauvignon served with rock salt chocolate (Bigman hates salt in his chocolate we discovered but somehow squeezed down the red that went with it!!!) and the third was a pudding wine with a milk chocolate. It was unusal but worked well. The coffee after went down even better.
Then it was off to Dornier - they own a plane making company as well. We didn't need any planes to fly!!! Anyway we sampled an array of fabulous wines before sitting down to lunch. Bigman has taken up food photography and is becoming a dab hand at framing picture of lasagne and pancakes. All those desperate to see the holiday snaps will now be gripped in anticipation of what will be a mouthwatering if not scenic tour of the Western Cape! Today it was fishcakes while I plumped on the local veggie flatbread.
After that it was back to sit outside in the cold breeze that was whistling round our sumptuous accomodation.
So dinner tonight might be a light affair - both stuffed from lunch.
We heard some sad news that a rider died on Tuesday morning at the race. He passed away in his sleep - James Williamson a 26 year old Australian. Very, very sad and we remember his family in our prayers.
The epic adventure continues with a trip to the coast in the morning with the aim of collecting the bikes from race HQ at night. We have decided to ride the Franschhoek Pass on Saturday - it's going to be Epic. The Bigman reckons his arm will have recovered sufficiently by then which is great news.
Hopefully tomorrow will be a wee bit warmer than today - we could do without it being a Scottish summer down here at the moment!
Ilene guided us round to 3 different wineries and made sure that we had a glass of red in our hands by 10.30am - a first for both of us I'm glad to say. We tasted a number of wines of all the different grape varieties that are grown in the regiona and learned much of the issues and challenges that this stunning country curently faces. We must of been the first Scots ever to limit the size of the samples provided and our hosts looked in shock as we stopped the liberal libation.
Our second stop was at a winery that offers specially made chocolate to compliment various wines that they produce. The first was a rich dark chocolate that was served with a shiraz, the second was a cabernet sauvignon served with rock salt chocolate (Bigman hates salt in his chocolate we discovered but somehow squeezed down the red that went with it!!!) and the third was a pudding wine with a milk chocolate. It was unusal but worked well. The coffee after went down even better.
Then it was off to Dornier - they own a plane making company as well. We didn't need any planes to fly!!! Anyway we sampled an array of fabulous wines before sitting down to lunch. Bigman has taken up food photography and is becoming a dab hand at framing picture of lasagne and pancakes. All those desperate to see the holiday snaps will now be gripped in anticipation of what will be a mouthwatering if not scenic tour of the Western Cape! Today it was fishcakes while I plumped on the local veggie flatbread.
After that it was back to sit outside in the cold breeze that was whistling round our sumptuous accomodation.
So dinner tonight might be a light affair - both stuffed from lunch.
We heard some sad news that a rider died on Tuesday morning at the race. He passed away in his sleep - James Williamson a 26 year old Australian. Very, very sad and we remember his family in our prayers.
The epic adventure continues with a trip to the coast in the morning with the aim of collecting the bikes from race HQ at night. We have decided to ride the Franschhoek Pass on Saturday - it's going to be Epic. The Bigman reckons his arm will have recovered sufficiently by then which is great news.
Hopefully tomorrow will be a wee bit warmer than today - we could do without it being a Scottish summer down here at the moment!
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
To the winelands and beyond....
Well after a day in Worster we drove down to the wine region with a wee hotel called River Manor in Stellenbosch - it's stunning. Nice spa place that will form base camp for the next few days.
So today was a very relaxed day. We pottered down through Franschoek, a really beautiful town with some lovely coffee shops and some machine gun toting police people. Not sure what they were doing but they were busy.
Bigman has replaced lasagne with pancakes as the food of choice and more were ordered this morning. Every coffee shop seems to out do the last. It's been an epic trip!
Our plans are fluid and with Bigman's arm improving by the day we're thinking about riding the route of the Arghus - a road bike race south of Cape Town as well as Franschoek Pass. The pass is a significant climb and if the arm is up to it we'll do it.
Also looking at riding the route of the Argus - a road bike race of 110km - looking forward to it......
Had a wee run to loosen off the legs today - it was great to get out in the warmth.
So wine tour tomorrow - should be fun!
So today was a very relaxed day. We pottered down through Franschoek, a really beautiful town with some lovely coffee shops and some machine gun toting police people. Not sure what they were doing but they were busy.
Bigman has replaced lasagne with pancakes as the food of choice and more were ordered this morning. Every coffee shop seems to out do the last. It's been an epic trip!
Our plans are fluid and with Bigman's arm improving by the day we're thinking about riding the route of the Arghus - a road bike race south of Cape Town as well as Franschoek Pass. The pass is a significant climb and if the arm is up to it we'll do it.
Also looking at riding the route of the Argus - a road bike race of 110km - looking forward to it......
Had a wee run to loosen off the legs today - it was great to get out in the warmth.
So wine tour tomorrow - should be fun!
Tuesday, 23 March 2010
Tom, Dick and Harry strategy deployed without camp guards knowledge
The Cape Crusaders are now following the Cape Epic from the comfort of a B & B in Worcester and support the local brewery turnover. The quality of the administration for the event is unbelievable A tented city is constructed to support the entire caravan including full television coverage. However, if you are not racing during the day, there is not much to do other than share war stories with fellow participants.
The boys decided to 'tunnel' out of the camp and explore the Western Cape before re-joining the race for the finale on Sunday in Lourensford where Watershed will be playing live.
The service in South Africa has been fantastic. The camaraderie amongst the cyclist has also been phenomenal............. for the most part. At dinner last night, we shared a table with a lady of German extraction who was massively disappointed with the man she had paired up with for the race. He had not measured up to the 'marketing material'. She felt her previous female partner from last year was much stronger. Noticeably, her current male partner was not present at dinner! Clearly enjoyed enough tongue soup for one day!
With the Wingman on paternity leave, the duo had to resort to commercial arrangements for car transport ( and not a pedal car). As we waited for the Avis Car to arrive, a fellow competitor who had broken a rib, was waiting on his car from Avis. He subsequently directed his delivery ladies to our waiting position and they gave us a lift back to Worcester, their nearest depot, where they could fix up a car. This avoided the need for us to return to Cape Town to pick up a car.
It also removed the need to make a decision on where we would next visit on our 'new' South African tour destination.
In Worcester, we visited a clothes shop to buy a wardrobe as our normal kit was waiting for us in Cape Town and lycra cycling kit without the bike stands out a bit!
The tourist information office fixed us up with a brilliant guest house with the most amazing views over the mountains ............................ and The Cape Epic goes past the drive end tomorrow!
With the Duracell not travelling with the Posse, The Ironman is taking up the challenge of feeding The Bigman. Not an easy challenge. Product identification in Pick 'n' Pay was the first challenge. When a lemon looks like an orange, and a tomato is mistaken for a Royal Gala apple, you know the outcome is going to be interesting. No complex issue with buffalo mozzarella on this trip. Bigman was sent for the flour and on a 50:50 chance, got it wrong.
On return to the B & B, we were invited down for a beer as Bill had arrived home from work. Did we fancy a beer? After considerable time for reflection, The Ironman was first to make the stairwell. He is so fast!
A great chat and some really interesting insights to life in South Africa and then it was time to return to the self catering to watch highlights of today's Cape Epic on TV whilst the Ironman creates a masterpiece.
Tomorrow we are taking a drive through the mountains to Stellenbosch to sprinkle some more Scottish humour with unsuspecting South Africans.
The boys decided to 'tunnel' out of the camp and explore the Western Cape before re-joining the race for the finale on Sunday in Lourensford where Watershed will be playing live.
The service in South Africa has been fantastic. The camaraderie amongst the cyclist has also been phenomenal............. for the most part. At dinner last night, we shared a table with a lady of German extraction who was massively disappointed with the man she had paired up with for the race. He had not measured up to the 'marketing material'. She felt her previous female partner from last year was much stronger. Noticeably, her current male partner was not present at dinner! Clearly enjoyed enough tongue soup for one day!
With the Wingman on paternity leave, the duo had to resort to commercial arrangements for car transport ( and not a pedal car). As we waited for the Avis Car to arrive, a fellow competitor who had broken a rib, was waiting on his car from Avis. He subsequently directed his delivery ladies to our waiting position and they gave us a lift back to Worcester, their nearest depot, where they could fix up a car. This avoided the need for us to return to Cape Town to pick up a car.
It also removed the need to make a decision on where we would next visit on our 'new' South African tour destination.
In Worcester, we visited a clothes shop to buy a wardrobe as our normal kit was waiting for us in Cape Town and lycra cycling kit without the bike stands out a bit!
The tourist information office fixed us up with a brilliant guest house with the most amazing views over the mountains ............................ and The Cape Epic goes past the drive end tomorrow!
With the Duracell not travelling with the Posse, The Ironman is taking up the challenge of feeding The Bigman. Not an easy challenge. Product identification in Pick 'n' Pay was the first challenge. When a lemon looks like an orange, and a tomato is mistaken for a Royal Gala apple, you know the outcome is going to be interesting. No complex issue with buffalo mozzarella on this trip. Bigman was sent for the flour and on a 50:50 chance, got it wrong.
On return to the B & B, we were invited down for a beer as Bill had arrived home from work. Did we fancy a beer? After considerable time for reflection, The Ironman was first to make the stairwell. He is so fast!
A great chat and some really interesting insights to life in South Africa and then it was time to return to the self catering to watch highlights of today's Cape Epic on TV whilst the Ironman creates a masterpiece.
Tomorrow we are taking a drive through the mountains to Stellenbosch to sprinkle some more Scottish humour with unsuspecting South Africans.
The boys are back in training
Whilst waiting for the car to arrive from Avis, the boys headed for a coffee shop reputed for its cakes.
A couple of pancakes with fresh fruit and maple syrup later, it was time to meet South Africa!
Posse Ecosse
A couple of pancakes with fresh fruit and maple syrup later, it was time to meet South Africa!
Posse Ecosse
Monday, 22 March 2010
It's the journey that counts
Everything had gone to plan so far. We were transferred to the start line at 6:00 and the excitement grew as local riders arrived.
The start was a bit of a mellee with broken stones forming the first climb of the day. We were fortunate the start of the day was overcast however that would change later in the morning. During one stage whilst we had to queue to go down the descent we chatted with a guy from RBS .
This was around the time The Ironman received a warning about snakes in the bush! At the descent we saw a fellow cyclist somersault over his handled bars whilst still cleated in. He was unharmed however it was a stunning sight.
After the first water stop we had a cracking down hill on tarmac before turning onto a landrover track full of sandpits. They were murder.
It was during such a ‘traverse’ Bigman was taken out by a following rider. South Africa has wide barren spaces however this chap chose to share space. And in an instant, Bigman was down, handle bars pointing in a different direction to the wheel. The Ironman fixed up the bike whilst a passing medic applied some first aid to the cuts and scratches.
Not long after this we arrived at the next feed station and then a climb. It was timely as the cramp began to set into his legs. Cramp like he had never experienced before. The medics at the food station put it down to aftershock of the dunt. When climbing the next hill, his legs locked. He looked more like the Tinman that buddy to the Ironman. By the time we climbed the hill, the sweep wagon was now providing personal support including the odd white powder and coke for the cramp.
At a forest section Bigman lunged into a river section using pace to carry him through. A rock on the river bed had different ideas and the rock won. Fortunately he was able to get the cleats out of his pedals and managed to avoid a dooking. However, the legs locked again and the Ironman had to wade in and massage the legs. The medic in the sweep wagon felt this was worth a photograph!
The next climb was on broken path and had to be walked for anything other than the technically gifted. At the top we managed to use momentum on the similar rough stuff on the way down.
At the last feed station we were by now up against the clock. We were encouraged to go for it. 28km with two hours to go seemed doable until we arrived at another stage that required walking. Cramp set in once again and he time was crawling away.
The road was rough and just kept going up. The game was up. Sense prevailed and we enlisted the assistance of the sweep wagon. When reviewing the sections still to come before the finish, it was the right decision.
And so was the journey worth it. With out a doubt. Our intro to this blog says it all. The friendships we have built on the bike and the encouragement we have received from many reading this blog means the journey has been worth it. As Little Nemo reminded me last night, it is a learning experience.
South Africa is a beautiful country and we are off to explore it ……….. in a car
The start was a bit of a mellee with broken stones forming the first climb of the day. We were fortunate the start of the day was overcast however that would change later in the morning. During one stage whilst we had to queue to go down the descent we chatted with a guy from RBS .
This was around the time The Ironman received a warning about snakes in the bush! At the descent we saw a fellow cyclist somersault over his handled bars whilst still cleated in. He was unharmed however it was a stunning sight.
After the first water stop we had a cracking down hill on tarmac before turning onto a landrover track full of sandpits. They were murder.
It was during such a ‘traverse’ Bigman was taken out by a following rider. South Africa has wide barren spaces however this chap chose to share space. And in an instant, Bigman was down, handle bars pointing in a different direction to the wheel. The Ironman fixed up the bike whilst a passing medic applied some first aid to the cuts and scratches.
Not long after this we arrived at the next feed station and then a climb. It was timely as the cramp began to set into his legs. Cramp like he had never experienced before. The medics at the food station put it down to aftershock of the dunt. When climbing the next hill, his legs locked. He looked more like the Tinman that buddy to the Ironman. By the time we climbed the hill, the sweep wagon was now providing personal support including the odd white powder and coke for the cramp.
At a forest section Bigman lunged into a river section using pace to carry him through. A rock on the river bed had different ideas and the rock won. Fortunately he was able to get the cleats out of his pedals and managed to avoid a dooking. However, the legs locked again and the Ironman had to wade in and massage the legs. The medic in the sweep wagon felt this was worth a photograph!
The next climb was on broken path and had to be walked for anything other than the technically gifted. At the top we managed to use momentum on the similar rough stuff on the way down.
At the last feed station we were by now up against the clock. We were encouraged to go for it. 28km with two hours to go seemed doable until we arrived at another stage that required walking. Cramp set in once again and he time was crawling away.
The road was rough and just kept going up. The game was up. Sense prevailed and we enlisted the assistance of the sweep wagon. When reviewing the sections still to come before the finish, it was the right decision.
And so was the journey worth it. With out a doubt. Our intro to this blog says it all. The friendships we have built on the bike and the encouragement we have received from many reading this blog means the journey has been worth it. As Little Nemo reminded me last night, it is a learning experience.
South Africa is a beautiful country and we are off to explore it ……….. in a car
Sunday, 21 March 2010
Race Day - not in the script....
Well these are the words that I didn’t expect to say by we’re sadly out of the race.
The day had started very early with a 4am call and the hotel managed to put on a fine spread for the Epic Racers. We were then shuffled on to buses and transported to the start a good 2 hours before the start.
Everyone was busy doing bits and pieces to themselves and their bikes and the Bigman and I were pretty relaxed. The start gates opened and joined the chute about half way up. There was still an hour to go. Behind us we had an entire Indian family in the chute with the racers, shooting video’s and photo’s. it was a tad chaotic.
We were entertained by a helicopter filming from the skies. The pilot was simply outstanding swooping this way and that. We all waved in regulatory manner as you do when a film crew point a camera in your direction.
Then we were off. The race started and as usual the pushing and shoving began. The start soon led to the first hill. Immediately we were backed up and everytime someone in the group stopped everyone stopped. It was frustrating and very stop start. It was also very technical with lots of difficult rocky outcrops and loose stuff. But we made it and with a sense of relief the pack began to thin out.
More people were still flying past on the descents and I almost wiped out on bump on the track. I was lucky.
We were then faced with a really technical single track section. Some steep drops on very loose gravel. We were going well but our progress was halted with a puncture. I was about to turn the bike over when a guy mentioned about the snakes and suggesting it wasn’t the wisest place to stop.
So I grabbed my bike and ran the next few km – think it was the best option as the stuff Bigman got over was really challenging!
The trail kept backing up and we were forced to wait continually. Everyone was chatting and having a laugh. The guy in front of me was called Andrew and it turned out his granny was a Macleod. Obviously that was the side of the family from which he got his bike handling skills cos two minutes later he went head over heels into the bushes!
We fixed the puncture in double quick time and set about making up lost time. Sadly I then encountered my next problem and was forced to run the next few km with one gear. Fortunately it was a hill so it was fine and a fellow racer shared some lube with me and the gears loosened off.
The next section was tar and we flew. We climbed with ease passing many bikes. Stopped at the water stop and fuelled up and blasted our way down the hill to the next section. This is where is got tough again. Sand. Lots of it nd it was like glass. We kept up a steady pace overtaking more and more bikers.
This is also where things started to go wrong. Bigman’s back wheel was unintentionally clipped and he took a big fall. The damage to bike and body wasn’t good. A medic patched him up while I fixed the bike.
We set off once more but it was obvious Bigman was in pain not only was he cut from the fall but his arm was badly jarred. We ploughed on but it wasn’t long before leg locking cramp set in. I think this was a reaction to the fall – a form of shock.
We fought on. The miles passed slowly with many bouts of cramp. He was in agony. I would have given up but Bigman kept going and going. We climbed hill after hill some walking some biking but with a steely determination he fought the pain and kept going.
The support crews were immense but eventually they caught us up and told us our time had run out.
He was awesome today. In agony there were no complaints. I learned do much about a man of character and commitment.
I tell more tomorrow. One thing I will say is that he did us all proud today and it’s an honour to be his teammate.
So we’re out – we’ll need to sort out things in the morning but until then……
The day had started very early with a 4am call and the hotel managed to put on a fine spread for the Epic Racers. We were then shuffled on to buses and transported to the start a good 2 hours before the start.
Everyone was busy doing bits and pieces to themselves and their bikes and the Bigman and I were pretty relaxed. The start gates opened and joined the chute about half way up. There was still an hour to go. Behind us we had an entire Indian family in the chute with the racers, shooting video’s and photo’s. it was a tad chaotic.
We were entertained by a helicopter filming from the skies. The pilot was simply outstanding swooping this way and that. We all waved in regulatory manner as you do when a film crew point a camera in your direction.
Then we were off. The race started and as usual the pushing and shoving began. The start soon led to the first hill. Immediately we were backed up and everytime someone in the group stopped everyone stopped. It was frustrating and very stop start. It was also very technical with lots of difficult rocky outcrops and loose stuff. But we made it and with a sense of relief the pack began to thin out.
More people were still flying past on the descents and I almost wiped out on bump on the track. I was lucky.
We were then faced with a really technical single track section. Some steep drops on very loose gravel. We were going well but our progress was halted with a puncture. I was about to turn the bike over when a guy mentioned about the snakes and suggesting it wasn’t the wisest place to stop.
So I grabbed my bike and ran the next few km – think it was the best option as the stuff Bigman got over was really challenging!
The trail kept backing up and we were forced to wait continually. Everyone was chatting and having a laugh. The guy in front of me was called Andrew and it turned out his granny was a Macleod. Obviously that was the side of the family from which he got his bike handling skills cos two minutes later he went head over heels into the bushes!
We fixed the puncture in double quick time and set about making up lost time. Sadly I then encountered my next problem and was forced to run the next few km with one gear. Fortunately it was a hill so it was fine and a fellow racer shared some lube with me and the gears loosened off.
The next section was tar and we flew. We climbed with ease passing many bikes. Stopped at the water stop and fuelled up and blasted our way down the hill to the next section. This is where is got tough again. Sand. Lots of it nd it was like glass. We kept up a steady pace overtaking more and more bikers.
This is also where things started to go wrong. Bigman’s back wheel was unintentionally clipped and he took a big fall. The damage to bike and body wasn’t good. A medic patched him up while I fixed the bike.
We set off once more but it was obvious Bigman was in pain not only was he cut from the fall but his arm was badly jarred. We ploughed on but it wasn’t long before leg locking cramp set in. I think this was a reaction to the fall – a form of shock.
We fought on. The miles passed slowly with many bouts of cramp. He was in agony. I would have given up but Bigman kept going and going. We climbed hill after hill some walking some biking but with a steely determination he fought the pain and kept going.
The support crews were immense but eventually they caught us up and told us our time had run out.
He was awesome today. In agony there were no complaints. I learned do much about a man of character and commitment.
I tell more tomorrow. One thing I will say is that he did us all proud today and it’s an honour to be his teammate.
So we’re out – we’ll need to sort out things in the morning but until then……
Saturday, 20 March 2010
Epic Date - Race Day -1
The day started at 07:50 with an overcast morning and a slight coolness.
Breakfast was another fining carbing opportunity – bowl of fresh fruit,omelette with cheese, washed down with a large bowl of porridge. It was a feeding frenzy, last seen when devouring’s a supply of Duracell Chilli Con Carne made for 8 and eaten by four at Carbisdale Castle last May early in the training plan.
Registration was along at the V and A Waterfront – a 3 mile journey providing an opportunity to turn the legs and road test the bikes.
The noise and sense of expectation and anticipation was enormous. We picked up our branded hold all that will carry our race week equipmwnt along with wrist bands to access services, T shirts, Absa Cape Epic buff, and loads of other goodies.
After a coffee on the waterfront, the Ironman popped off to the pharmacy for some Immodium. Both the bike and the Ironman are running smoothly!
A phenomenal bicycle stunt artist performed amazing tricks at the amphitheatre to a crowd of onlookers.
We returned to the hotel to arrange our equipment for the week. It is amazing how your luggage expands to fill the available luggage space.
We then returned to the Waterfront for a bite to eat and some people watching before attending the rider briefing at 14:30. We shared the shuttle bus with a couple from Colorado who had spent 28hours travelling to get here. Lynn had done the Cape Epic three years ago. Her top tip – enjoy every day and take care of your butt.
For lunch.Bigman went for the Thai chicken to avoid further feedback from Little Nemo about travelling all the way to South Africa and having Lasagne for lunch yesterday. The Fit One also spotted the side of chips ……… choice of champions!
The briefing session included a who’s who of cycling with olympic gold medallists taking part and world champions. The Col du Carnock champion did not get a mention but Scotland got an extra cheer as the countries represented were announced one by one.
After another coffee, it was time for a Hagen Daz before heading back to the hotel to load bikes into the truck at 17:00. Dinner was a buffet at 18:30. With a 04:30 start tomorrow it is going to be an early night.
Tomorrow a year in waiting will arrive.
Bigman
Well it’s been a cracker – started off damp and miserable – it wasn’t any better outside!! The good news is that we both got a good night’s kip and woke up feeling refreshed and ready for a day of administration and organisation.
Breakfast was of the champion variety with the hotel putting a spread on that was Olympic in it’s proportions but to a really high quality. It’s fair to say that we tucked in and enjoyed the last day of ‘normal’ food before we suffer the rigours of the energy bars and drinks.
After breakfast we jumped on the bikes and headed down to the race centre at the V & A waterside. We paused and remembered the posse heading out on their journey to, we guessed, Loch Levens Larder. It was GREAT to be back out on the bike – not so sure I’ll be shouting that out tomorrow but today it was just fantastic.
With a slight breeze pushing at the remaining strands of the Bigman’s heid we peddled in to town past the stunning Football Stadium that will host many a game during the summer (or winter here) of football. It is a huge place that has hosted 3 trials games successfully and it is looking likely that those travelling to Cape Town will enjoy an experience of a lifetime.
Registration was uncomplicated. We signed in and grabbed our bags and T shirts before heading back to pick up our new dongle. The dongle is our favoured method of getting news home and with it and a friend’s Karen’s laptop we should be able to communicate with the world. I passed it off as being a business need as well. Ahem.
I, of course, being too chatty for my own good left my passport in the shop and return visit was required later to collect said passport.
We biked back to the hotel and packed the ABSA bags we’ve been given for the race. Somehow we both managed to arrive with one bag and yet have managed now to fill two. I think Bigman is the Paul Daniels of packing because he seems to have managed to create twice the amount of stuff he started with. I think he’ll like the comparison – not a lot!
After lunch it was back for the race briefing. We went to the wrong place. It was a shame that they advised us of being in the wrong pace because it didn’t half go on. We went thro the leagues of nations who are racing and I’m pleased to say that Scotland got a shout belying our limited numbers.
We sneaked off before the end as they interviewed the potential winners. I’m not sure that we actually didn’t leave because the Bigman was hacked off that they had missed us out but maybe he’ll fess up to that in his blog. More shopping for the stuff that bungs you up when in need, water and honey left us enough time for a coffee and ice cream before our taxi took us back.
Dinner was buffet in the hotel – it was fine. The hotel has been fantastic letting us leave our bike bags and other stuff in a secure store. Not sure they’ve worked out it’s for a week but time will tell.
Tomorrow is a new day. Our reason for being here has arrived. We’re as ready as we’re ever going to be and the good news is that I’ve seen 3 racers fatter than me so far. Always a comfort!
The other news is that our cycle shirts reign supreme. Karen Kelly of Karen Kelly Designs has provided us with ‘the’ top of the race. Nothing yet has come close and I suspect that we will get many an admiring glance en route tomorrow. She’s done us proud and we’ll enjoy wearing the shirts.
Bigman’s getting serious about the race – he’s checking out the route for tomorrow. 117km with 2,190m of climbing. We’ll let the racing snakes go before plotting our route to victory.
The quote of the day came from the Deputy Council Leader in Cape Town who told the assembled audience at the Launch Party that ‘in Cape Town we take our partying seriously!!!’ – maybe he used to worked in Glasgow for Stephen Purcell who knows!
Hopefully the laptop and connection will work tomorrow. We’re both looking forward to getting started. We know it’s going to be a challenge but having completed the North Face of the Col De Cleish on many occasions we’re ready!
Until tomorrow my friends…….
Ironman
Breakfast was another fining carbing opportunity – bowl of fresh fruit,omelette with cheese, washed down with a large bowl of porridge. It was a feeding frenzy, last seen when devouring’s a supply of Duracell Chilli Con Carne made for 8 and eaten by four at Carbisdale Castle last May early in the training plan.
Registration was along at the V and A Waterfront – a 3 mile journey providing an opportunity to turn the legs and road test the bikes.
The noise and sense of expectation and anticipation was enormous. We picked up our branded hold all that will carry our race week equipmwnt along with wrist bands to access services, T shirts, Absa Cape Epic buff, and loads of other goodies.
After a coffee on the waterfront, the Ironman popped off to the pharmacy for some Immodium. Both the bike and the Ironman are running smoothly!
A phenomenal bicycle stunt artist performed amazing tricks at the amphitheatre to a crowd of onlookers.
We returned to the hotel to arrange our equipment for the week. It is amazing how your luggage expands to fill the available luggage space.
We then returned to the Waterfront for a bite to eat and some people watching before attending the rider briefing at 14:30. We shared the shuttle bus with a couple from Colorado who had spent 28hours travelling to get here. Lynn had done the Cape Epic three years ago. Her top tip – enjoy every day and take care of your butt.
For lunch.Bigman went for the Thai chicken to avoid further feedback from Little Nemo about travelling all the way to South Africa and having Lasagne for lunch yesterday. The Fit One also spotted the side of chips ……… choice of champions!
The briefing session included a who’s who of cycling with olympic gold medallists taking part and world champions. The Col du Carnock champion did not get a mention but Scotland got an extra cheer as the countries represented were announced one by one.
After another coffee, it was time for a Hagen Daz before heading back to the hotel to load bikes into the truck at 17:00. Dinner was a buffet at 18:30. With a 04:30 start tomorrow it is going to be an early night.
Tomorrow a year in waiting will arrive.
Bigman
Well it’s been a cracker – started off damp and miserable – it wasn’t any better outside!! The good news is that we both got a good night’s kip and woke up feeling refreshed and ready for a day of administration and organisation.
Breakfast was of the champion variety with the hotel putting a spread on that was Olympic in it’s proportions but to a really high quality. It’s fair to say that we tucked in and enjoyed the last day of ‘normal’ food before we suffer the rigours of the energy bars and drinks.
After breakfast we jumped on the bikes and headed down to the race centre at the V & A waterside. We paused and remembered the posse heading out on their journey to, we guessed, Loch Levens Larder. It was GREAT to be back out on the bike – not so sure I’ll be shouting that out tomorrow but today it was just fantastic.
With a slight breeze pushing at the remaining strands of the Bigman’s heid we peddled in to town past the stunning Football Stadium that will host many a game during the summer (or winter here) of football. It is a huge place that has hosted 3 trials games successfully and it is looking likely that those travelling to Cape Town will enjoy an experience of a lifetime.
Registration was uncomplicated. We signed in and grabbed our bags and T shirts before heading back to pick up our new dongle. The dongle is our favoured method of getting news home and with it and a friend’s Karen’s laptop we should be able to communicate with the world. I passed it off as being a business need as well. Ahem.
I, of course, being too chatty for my own good left my passport in the shop and return visit was required later to collect said passport.
We biked back to the hotel and packed the ABSA bags we’ve been given for the race. Somehow we both managed to arrive with one bag and yet have managed now to fill two. I think Bigman is the Paul Daniels of packing because he seems to have managed to create twice the amount of stuff he started with. I think he’ll like the comparison – not a lot!
After lunch it was back for the race briefing. We went to the wrong place. It was a shame that they advised us of being in the wrong pace because it didn’t half go on. We went thro the leagues of nations who are racing and I’m pleased to say that Scotland got a shout belying our limited numbers.
We sneaked off before the end as they interviewed the potential winners. I’m not sure that we actually didn’t leave because the Bigman was hacked off that they had missed us out but maybe he’ll fess up to that in his blog. More shopping for the stuff that bungs you up when in need, water and honey left us enough time for a coffee and ice cream before our taxi took us back.
Dinner was buffet in the hotel – it was fine. The hotel has been fantastic letting us leave our bike bags and other stuff in a secure store. Not sure they’ve worked out it’s for a week but time will tell.
Tomorrow is a new day. Our reason for being here has arrived. We’re as ready as we’re ever going to be and the good news is that I’ve seen 3 racers fatter than me so far. Always a comfort!
The other news is that our cycle shirts reign supreme. Karen Kelly of Karen Kelly Designs has provided us with ‘the’ top of the race. Nothing yet has come close and I suspect that we will get many an admiring glance en route tomorrow. She’s done us proud and we’ll enjoy wearing the shirts.
Bigman’s getting serious about the race – he’s checking out the route for tomorrow. 117km with 2,190m of climbing. We’ll let the racing snakes go before plotting our route to victory.
The quote of the day came from the Deputy Council Leader in Cape Town who told the assembled audience at the Launch Party that ‘in Cape Town we take our partying seriously!!!’ – maybe he used to worked in Glasgow for Stephen Purcell who knows!
Hopefully the laptop and connection will work tomorrow. We’re both looking forward to getting started. We know it’s going to be a challenge but having completed the North Face of the Col De Cleish on many occasions we’re ready!
Until tomorrow my friends…….
Ironman
Friday, 19 March 2010
Impossible is nothing
Having gained the advantage of ‘free’ additional sports bag through booking in July last year, we had to pay for excess baggage ………… not for the Cape Duo, but for the bike containers which resembled Bill Hardie’s stock room. On reflection it probably was Bill Hardie’s stock room.
One could have been forgiven for thinking the French rugby team were queueing to board the Cape Town flight. A party of 14 french geriatrics were wielding zimmers, walking sticks and shoulders to barge their way through an orderly queue to board a plane patiently waiting for everyone to board. Not content, they deployed a strategy of putting their knees into the back of seats of passengers in fronF o avoid the seats being reclined. If it was not so pitiful, it might have been like a scene from Mr Bean.
After boarding the Heathrow flight to Cape Town last night at 21:45 Bigman had the aisle to keep him company whilst The Ironman had the company of a South African national who works in London between him and the window. He was soon regailing his new companion of his exploits in Ironman New Zealand last year. And before the wheels had been safely stowed in the plane, she was asleep!
Eleven hours later and a full five hours of sleep the destination is below us. As you leave teh airport, the iconic image of TAble Mountain is the first thing you see. Arrival In Cape Town and everything could not have worked better. Really friendly people eager to make all visitors welcome. The coach carried the bikes,the Cape Duo, and other bikers to the hotel where the bikes were assembled ready to race.
But not before the duo strolled along the promenade in searing heat before retiring for a carbing up exercise in a little Italian restaurant over looking the Atlantic Ocean.
At the International party at the V&A Waterfront Park 54 countries and 400 riders (out of 1200 riders) were represented. Only two from Scotland (replendant in national coloursand on the board publicizing countries represented))and the Cape Duo are already prizewinners from an impromtu Q and A session. Their prize …………….. a copy of the 2010 Cape Epic DVD.
Everyone is mega excited for the start of the race.
Don't Stop Believing.....
It’s been a day to remember. I can’t quite believe that I’m here. 12 months of preparation we arrived in Cape Town.
The journey to London went as planned and it was in London the fun began. We seemed to be sharing the flight with some particularly annoying French people. There was no queue where they were going and just barged everyone out of the way to get to the front of the queue. The pain in the French didn’t stop there though because Bigman has a small but very effective French lady sticking her knees into the back of his chair for the entire flight.
The Auld Alliance was severely tested but Bigman being kind of spirit let it go and put up with the inconvenience.
Otherwise the plane journey passed painlessly with both of us managing a good amount of sleep. Sleep on the plane isn’t like normal sleep as the days merge into a big blaumonge of days becoming one. The first steps off the plane are always exciting. I’d followed a large German lady who had to sidestep her way down the aisle for fear of getting jammed between the seats so when eventually the heat hit me it was very welcome.
We grabbed a shared bus back to the hotel. My bike bag was thrown on first followed by Bigman’s and then the assorted luggage of the other passengers. There was still time to squeeze on another couple of bikers. So the top bags were removed, the driver was just about to throw another 2 bikes on top of mine when I cried out in anguish and pain, for my poor bike, and he stopped and re-ordered the bikes so mine was on top. I could hear the crack of the carbon forks and was grateful that no damage was done.
The hotel is in a grand location and will suit us just fine for a couple of nights. The organisiation swings into full effect tomorrow with the launch, race briefing and bike hand over. Tonight was the party for the overseas racers. It was great fun. Hopefully the Bigman will load a few photo’s later……
So we plan a reasonably early night before matters take a serious turn tomorrow. We found an amazing restaurant at lunchtime today, which served fantastic food at really good price. The waiter was excellent and at the end of lunch passed us the bill. We gathered the cash, put it in the cheque cover and thanked the waiter for an excellent lunch. He asked if we would return. We replied positively and with a generous smile were on our way. Well our smile turned out to be our only generous act as we’d underpaid the bill and instead of leaving our kind waiter a tip had short changed him!! I wonder if we are still welcome!
It’s a beautiful place Cape Town and we’re looking forward to more exploration tomorrow.
The journey to London went as planned and it was in London the fun began. We seemed to be sharing the flight with some particularly annoying French people. There was no queue where they were going and just barged everyone out of the way to get to the front of the queue. The pain in the French didn’t stop there though because Bigman has a small but very effective French lady sticking her knees into the back of his chair for the entire flight.
The Auld Alliance was severely tested but Bigman being kind of spirit let it go and put up with the inconvenience.
Otherwise the plane journey passed painlessly with both of us managing a good amount of sleep. Sleep on the plane isn’t like normal sleep as the days merge into a big blaumonge of days becoming one. The first steps off the plane are always exciting. I’d followed a large German lady who had to sidestep her way down the aisle for fear of getting jammed between the seats so when eventually the heat hit me it was very welcome.
We grabbed a shared bus back to the hotel. My bike bag was thrown on first followed by Bigman’s and then the assorted luggage of the other passengers. There was still time to squeeze on another couple of bikers. So the top bags were removed, the driver was just about to throw another 2 bikes on top of mine when I cried out in anguish and pain, for my poor bike, and he stopped and re-ordered the bikes so mine was on top. I could hear the crack of the carbon forks and was grateful that no damage was done.
The hotel is in a grand location and will suit us just fine for a couple of nights. The organisiation swings into full effect tomorrow with the launch, race briefing and bike hand over. Tonight was the party for the overseas racers. It was great fun. Hopefully the Bigman will load a few photo’s later……
So we plan a reasonably early night before matters take a serious turn tomorrow. We found an amazing restaurant at lunchtime today, which served fantastic food at really good price. The waiter was excellent and at the end of lunch passed us the bill. We gathered the cash, put it in the cheque cover and thanked the waiter for an excellent lunch. He asked if we would return. We replied positively and with a generous smile were on our way. Well our smile turned out to be our only generous act as we’d underpaid the bill and instead of leaving our kind waiter a tip had short changed him!! I wonder if we are still welcome!
It’s a beautiful place Cape Town and we’re looking forward to more exploration tomorrow.
Thursday, 18 March 2010
Up, up and away...
D-day has finally come as the Bigman puts it! Despite the challenges of connecting trains, planes and automobiles (not to mention 'helpful' BA groundstaff) the Bigman and Ironman have now taken off from Heathrow on their Epic Caper. Good luck from the posse and we look forward to the first blog from South Africa. Hope you manage to put your bikes back together again ;)
Little Nemo and The Wee Yin
Little Nemo and The Wee Yin
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
We're leaving on a jet plane.....
Well the time is now. Our bags are packed. The posse ecosse is leaving tomorrow.
No stone has been left unturned, no list left unticked, nothing left to chance and we're as well organised as 2 not very organised can be!
Big thank you to everyone who has sent a supportive message - it's been much appreciated.
I'm swinging between excitment and nervousness. The journey to get here has been amazing. The people that have been part of the journey have been fantastic and incredibly supportive from both our partners, the posse, the people who have been there with physical or verbal support, to the folk that we've met on the route. It's been superb and thank you all.
We've formed a great team that will be tested in every way. There is no doubt that the challenge that lies ahead will push us to the extreme. Whilst I'm so excited that the time to head off has arrived I'm equally sad that this part of the journey is coming to an end. It's been uplifting.
So on to South Africa. We arrive on friday morning and no doubt the rest of the daytime will be spent re-building the bikes, sorting out kit and getting aclimatised. On Friday evening we'll be sporting our scottish rugby jerseys at the International welcome party. The calm before the storm.
My bike bag weighs an absolute tonne so who knows what they will say in the airport tomorrow. Mum's cake is in with the bike......
So we'll blog when we can which will hopefully be regularly so keep checking back here and see what's happening in the Cape Epic 2010.
It's time - see you on the other side.....
No stone has been left unturned, no list left unticked, nothing left to chance and we're as well organised as 2 not very organised can be!
Big thank you to everyone who has sent a supportive message - it's been much appreciated.
I'm swinging between excitment and nervousness. The journey to get here has been amazing. The people that have been part of the journey have been fantastic and incredibly supportive from both our partners, the posse, the people who have been there with physical or verbal support, to the folk that we've met on the route. It's been superb and thank you all.
We've formed a great team that will be tested in every way. There is no doubt that the challenge that lies ahead will push us to the extreme. Whilst I'm so excited that the time to head off has arrived I'm equally sad that this part of the journey is coming to an end. It's been uplifting.
So on to South Africa. We arrive on friday morning and no doubt the rest of the daytime will be spent re-building the bikes, sorting out kit and getting aclimatised. On Friday evening we'll be sporting our scottish rugby jerseys at the International welcome party. The calm before the storm.
My bike bag weighs an absolute tonne so who knows what they will say in the airport tomorrow. Mum's cake is in with the bike......
So we'll blog when we can which will hopefully be regularly so keep checking back here and see what's happening in the Cape Epic 2010.
It's time - see you on the other side.....
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Race Profile - Day 1
Stage 1:
Date: 21 March 2010
Start/Finish: Diemersfontein to Ceres
Distance: 117km
Climbing: 2190m
Stage 1 will see riders leave the charming Diemersfontein Wine Estate in the heart of the Wellington wine region. Riders will face a rude awakening of their legs with some immediate steep climbs, leading them to forest single track and more steep climbing on dirt tracks taking the race up to the tarred road of Bainskloof pass. The smooth tar descent is well-known for its tight turns and riders need to stay alert heading down into the windswept farmlands. Next up is a 5km climb on smooth dirt tracks through Kluytjieskraal. Over the other side, they will find themselves surrounded by mountains, with no sign of civilization, followed by a short rocky climb taking them back over the mountain ridge. The descent offers fantastic vistas over the Tulbagh and Wolsley valley which riders will soon traverse to reach the final stretch, the gruelling sting in the tail – a 12km long railway line section over iron sleepers and sharp stones into Ceres.
JR Rocks
There have not been many photos of JR out training this year however we caught up with him clubbing at the Victory Send Off Party getting in some extra training for the Posse Ecosse outing to the Bealach later this year.
10 more minutes until D Day
And now the final hour is fast approaching. It is 23:50 and Departure Day fast approaching.
It is all but done except for 800 km over 8 days ascending 49000ft. We might do a wee extra loop of the Witches Hat on Day 3 to pass through the 50,000 ft barrier for a laff!
The Posse Ecosse are representing Scotland in South Africa and all Bigman's equipment shouts about it. Scottish saltire on the Bike box, Scottish adress labels about 24 inches wide making sure the destination is obvious to all baggage handlers.
It is well known across international circuits that a common language exists amongst baggage handlers.
"Fragille" means this is really difficult to break but plaese try anyway.
The Ironman is a walking bike shop come chemists with all sorts of lotions, potions and spanners. We only hope he does not get the wet lube mixed up with the Sudacream at 05:00 hours when the headtorch is failing in the darkness!
Bigman has had a tough shift in a number of things whilst cramming in the training and so when he boarded the 17:45 to Dunfermline tonight, there was only one thing on his mind ........... the start line.
The Fit One has arranged a Posse Ecosse outing on Saturday in celebration of the Cape Duo qualifying for the finals in South Africa. He has made no secret of his intention to win the Bus Museum Sprint with a weakened peleton. The Duracell has other ideas!!!
It has been fantastic to receive so many calls and texts with support and each and everyone looking forward to daily reports on the blog.
With 05:00 starts and up to 10 hours per day in teh saddle you are gauranteed to receive a full unabridged outpouring of emotions. For the feint hearted, please do not read!
And so the Cape Duo say Abientot, til next we blog again
It is all but done except for 800 km over 8 days ascending 49000ft. We might do a wee extra loop of the Witches Hat on Day 3 to pass through the 50,000 ft barrier for a laff!
The Posse Ecosse are representing Scotland in South Africa and all Bigman's equipment shouts about it. Scottish saltire on the Bike box, Scottish adress labels about 24 inches wide making sure the destination is obvious to all baggage handlers.
It is well known across international circuits that a common language exists amongst baggage handlers.
"Fragille" means this is really difficult to break but plaese try anyway.
The Ironman is a walking bike shop come chemists with all sorts of lotions, potions and spanners. We only hope he does not get the wet lube mixed up with the Sudacream at 05:00 hours when the headtorch is failing in the darkness!
Bigman has had a tough shift in a number of things whilst cramming in the training and so when he boarded the 17:45 to Dunfermline tonight, there was only one thing on his mind ........... the start line.
The Fit One has arranged a Posse Ecosse outing on Saturday in celebration of the Cape Duo qualifying for the finals in South Africa. He has made no secret of his intention to win the Bus Museum Sprint with a weakened peleton. The Duracell has other ideas!!!
It has been fantastic to receive so many calls and texts with support and each and everyone looking forward to daily reports on the blog.
With 05:00 starts and up to 10 hours per day in teh saddle you are gauranteed to receive a full unabridged outpouring of emotions. For the feint hearted, please do not read!
And so the Cape Duo say Abientot, til next we blog again
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