Aberdour Ascent record smashed by the Bigman

It was a cracking summer's evening with a strong westerly wind when the Bigman set out to demolish the Aberdour route record and consign previous records for the Ascent to the annals of history and folklore. (Ironman can regail his previous accomplishments on the Aberdour Ascent when next entertaining pensioners in a hostel)

The Madone had been recently cleaned and oiled and so it should have been possible.

With a blistering 27 mins and 43 seconds to the halfway point, the record looked to be in the bag. Memories of the halfway point in the Etape came flooding back. Surely lightning could not strike twice?

The awesome Ascent brought darkness to a sky that until the approach shone brilliant sunshine. Bigman entered the zone.

He contracted with myself to accept some pain to beat his previous record of just under 5 minutes. And it was worth the pain - 4 minutes and 11 seconds - He took a double take. What a performance.

After taking 2.5 seconds to metaphorically pat himself on the back, it was back to focus on doing the double by bagging a route record which previously stood at 59 minutes. It was into the wind. Approaching Crossgates roundabout with 46 mins on the clock, it was going to be tight and the traffic would need to be on my side. Approaching the Woodmill road junction and the traffic was backed up. He pondered that this was not going to be the day. At the bottom of Garvock Hill the clock showed 54 minutes. It was doable and the question was by how much rather than 'if' it could be broken. He stayed on the big cog and tasted some more pain. The lactic acid was building in his legs but he knew if this was the Ironman, he would take it in his stride. He likes pain.

Grinding the Garvock, there was no choice, the prize was worth it.

Arrival - 56 minutes and 53 seconds. He felt great. All that cleaning had made the difference.

After all, it's all about the bike.