Sunday 22 May 2011
The big day arrives! tougher than ever to get up when at home but, in theory, today should be easier than ever: no luggage and a mere 65 miles or so..
Down to the Cathedral at nine as usual. We have some other riders to accompany us on our glorious final leg. Good to see you folks.
Off we pop to climb out of Truro.. mood is jolly and all is well (except that for some reason I (John) am feeling pain with every pedal stroke, have the legs finally given out? I toil behind the group wincing as I push. Any other club ride and I think I would have dropped out. I hope that, as the experience of the previous 2 weeks has shown, the body's amazing capability to cope with and suppress pain will come into play) On we go and finally down to the Lizard point where my lovely long-time friend and colleague, Joy, meets us with a bottle of fizz, glasses and some chocolate!! We pop the cork and take the photos. First objective met: From most northerly (Dunnett Head) to most southerly. great to be here in sunshine!
We still have to meet the final objective, but one historic call remains to be made: off we go toward Sithney and the legendary tea rooms where there now remain the 4 Joglers, Chris F, Shaun and Barney. Here we are joined by Rebecca. Drinks and humungous lumps of cake are consumed to fuel the last 20 or so miles (the dear lady doesn't charge the 4 of us! Jerry will make an equivalent donation to the charity as this was his forfeit for subjecting us to the abysmal B&B in Innerleithen!!) stomachs and bottles refilled we journey on, thankfully the legs are now not screaming at me with each ascent. Spirits are good and progress aided by Chris F and Barney taking the headwind for the JBs as we pass through PZ and Newlyn (here a brief stop for ice cream, thanks Jerry) and phone on to alert the waiting well-wishers that we will there within the hour. last few hills and we assemble at Sennen to glide in in formation as we near LE. We are greeted by friendly cheers as we arrive. We have arrived! We have done it! amazing!
Hugs and kisses again (I wish you wouldn't Jerry) and manly handshakes, then down to the signpost for the obligatory photos. Never had so much attention!
Lots of pics and back to assemble for a picnic. thanks again to Jon, Sharon and Cindy for welcome sarnies and cakes. We load up the bikes and drive to Truro, leaving Shaun to pedal his way home (at least he has the wind with him!)
miles:66.1
total miles: 1058
yellow jersey: and overall winner: Jerry
Mamils at the Beach
Monday, May 23, 2011
OKEHAMPTON TO TRURO
Again, good breakfast in good B&B (even if I wouldn't have chosen that wallpaper).
Zipped down hill into Okey then stalled into slow grinding climb out of the town. Okehampton is an extremely hilly place! more of the same undulations in decent (on the whole) weather (still windy) until we cross the Tamar into Kernow! (photo opps.) and then on to Launceston. Correction to above: Okehampton is a little bit hilly, Launceston is seriously hilly. This is really hard work and will take it's toll later on..we are skirting around the Northern edge of Bodmin moor to head for Chris's brother, Jon's place at Washaway, Bodmin. He, Sharon and their good family have laid on a spread for us. The problem is, we are pushing against some wicked winds and seem to hitting it full-on on some less than perfect road surfaces (and did I mention the hills?.) Jerry and John cop out at Camelford for a latte and white tea with pomegranate! (guess who had what!) this was more of an excuse for a rest rather than fluids. Meanwhile Chris and Julian pressed on. The two JBs tracked them down at Jon's where a warming bowl of soup and assorted other home made calorific comestibles awaited our attention. By now this was extremely welcome and we collectively demolished the offerings. John was contentedly wallowing comfortably with the feeling of well-being that only warmth and a full stomach can bring, until rudely bustled back onto the steed. Truro and home is now within our sights. We push on over Goss Moor toward Fraddon (stopped briefly for some banter by a friend of Jerry's) and thence down the Laddock valley where instinct (or some sort of rush of blood) took over and sprint mode was adopted: heads down, legs straining we careered through Laddock and on to Tresillian. Amazing! we are almost home! the enormity of the feat dawns; 11 days ago we were aboard these same bikes in the Scottish highlands and now, still only by the same means of transport we are on our own doorstep in Cornwall! It just remains to toil up the hill from Tresillian to be met by Chris's kids and Karen on the corner and Cindy at the end of the driveway. Smiles hugs, kisses and excited chatter are exchanged and shortly Rebecca arrives too. Cindy distributes the prostate cancer charity shirts that have finally arrived ready for the big finish tomorrow. We take ourselves off to our various homes for the comfort that only home can bring. Just the small matter of a 65 miles via the Lizard to LE tomorrow!
Zipped down hill into Okey then stalled into slow grinding climb out of the town. Okehampton is an extremely hilly place! more of the same undulations in decent (on the whole) weather (still windy) until we cross the Tamar into Kernow! (photo opps.) and then on to Launceston. Correction to above: Okehampton is a little bit hilly, Launceston is seriously hilly. This is really hard work and will take it's toll later on..we are skirting around the Northern edge of Bodmin moor to head for Chris's brother, Jon's place at Washaway, Bodmin. He, Sharon and their good family have laid on a spread for us. The problem is, we are pushing against some wicked winds and seem to hitting it full-on on some less than perfect road surfaces (and did I mention the hills?.) Jerry and John cop out at Camelford for a latte and white tea with pomegranate! (guess who had what!) this was more of an excuse for a rest rather than fluids. Meanwhile Chris and Julian pressed on. The two JBs tracked them down at Jon's where a warming bowl of soup and assorted other home made calorific comestibles awaited our attention. By now this was extremely welcome and we collectively demolished the offerings. John was contentedly wallowing comfortably with the feeling of well-being that only warmth and a full stomach can bring, until rudely bustled back onto the steed. Truro and home is now within our sights. We push on over Goss Moor toward Fraddon (stopped briefly for some banter by a friend of Jerry's) and thence down the Laddock valley where instinct (or some sort of rush of blood) took over and sprint mode was adopted: heads down, legs straining we careered through Laddock and on to Tresillian. Amazing! we are almost home! the enormity of the feat dawns; 11 days ago we were aboard these same bikes in the Scottish highlands and now, still only by the same means of transport we are on our own doorstep in Cornwall! It just remains to toil up the hill from Tresillian to be met by Chris's kids and Karen on the corner and Cindy at the end of the driveway. Smiles hugs, kisses and excited chatter are exchanged and shortly Rebecca arrives too. Cindy distributes the prostate cancer charity shirts that have finally arrived ready for the big finish tomorrow. We take ourselves off to our various homes for the comfort that only home can bring. Just the small matter of a 65 miles via the Lizard to LE tomorrow!
WELLS TO OKEHAMPTON
Today was to be another 90-miler so a prompt start was indicated. After an excellent breakfast in a very pleasant B&B this place had thumbs up from us all. As we removed the bikes from the garage we had one last gaze over the gleaming Rolls. Sunny morning - dare we hope for a repeat of yesterday's weather? Again into a fairly flat rural maze of lanes. The weather didn't quite hold out to yesterday's standard, but the showers were light although there was a bit of a troublesome headwind. Still, spirits and progress were good. Arrived in Taunton via cycle path for a refuel at "Morrison's" (vfm). (drink and cake. jerry-2 cakes) ploughed on through Taunton , Cullompton, (it as around here somewhere that we happened upon the Truro Police team that undertaking a fast/supported end to end, although young fit 30somethings, some of them looked a bit dejected, and it probably didn't help having a load carrying 50yr old overtake them on a flat bar! however we did still purloin some of their peanut butter and jam goodies from their support vehicle) Eventually Crediton -this was the around the 70 mile mark so a "lunch" stop was definitely required, Jerry and Chris had Tesco express sarnies while Julian and John made for the chippy (you have to trust your cravings!) It was rather a late lunch so John's fishcake, chips and mushy peas hit the spot! carried on into the chilly westerly towards Okey. Approaching the edge of Dartmoor and our day had gradually transformed from a balmy flattish affair to wind beaten hill climb. tough last 20-30 miles. approaching Okey on a mountainous climb we passed Amy and her Mum (a plucky lady for sure) from the East coast of Ireland struggling under the conditions and some panniers that were straining at the seams. Had a little chat about routes (they were working from a tiny road map) we heard later that they had arrived in Okehampton. hope they made LE ok. Exhausted on arriving to find julian had booked B&B on the top of a hill! Relief to arrive in huge old house that apparently used to be a school. Walked down to pub to meet up with old end to end mate of Jerry's, Trish (large with child) and her hubby John. Pub grub! and off to bed
miles: 90 approx
yellow jersey: Chris
miles: 90 approx
yellow jersey: Chris
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Upton upon Severn to Wells
Negotiated an early breakfast (by forgoing the usual "full English" which , to be honest, was no sacrifice - I think the challenge of eating 12 of these consecutively would surpass that of the JOGLE) Our very tolerant host was obviously not too disappointed to be let off galley duty and we duly carb-loaded on cereal and toast ++. In addition to allowing his private quarters to be invaded last night to watch the "giro d'Italia" he also saw his laptop commandeered for blogging purposes. We spotted that he had a track pump which we also duly helped ourselves to in the morning, which was handy as Julian had a flat. Anyway, JB & JB took this opportunity to make a fast getaway (on 110 lb front and rear) whilst the others were left to replace the tube and pay the bill. Off we went into a strangely unfamiliar scenario of pleasantly cool, sunny conditions and flat roads. Surely just a dream?.... but wait, no, it's true, adversity had briefly left us and we were able to reconnect with the concept of "cycling for pleasure". Incredibly , this was to be more than a fleeting mirage, but to continue all day. ALL DAY! Yes, on we went, gayly kissing the outskirts of Gloucester, to be treated to some middle England canal towpath idyll, exchanging "good mornings" with other happy human beings, stopping after a swift 30 miles for the mandatory coffee & cake (essential carbs) alongside a canal lock, feeling the sun warming our beaten bodies. All was well; fuelled and warmed, we pressed on our merry way, more English villages, more cycle routes eventually brought us alongside Bristol and the M5 to cross the Avonmouth bridge (familiar by car but a quite different experience by bike). After a "simple" lunch in clevedon (at 60 miles or so), we picked up the "Strawberry line" (part of Jerry's "excellent route") which took us through more cycle-friendly tracks and tunnels ( one of which jerry finds quite disorienting without the aid of mind-altering substances ). This brought us to the foot of Cheddar Gorge. Before tackling the climb we were allowed a milkshake to help us to the top. this was completed without drama and also presented some fine photo-opportunities. Carrying on up to priddy hill we took a breather on a bench which afforded fabulous sun-drenched views over the Somerset levels all the way to the coast. We then dropped carefully into the precipitous descent to Wookey hole (overtaken by a madly pedalling MTBer) and on to the fine city of Wells. Chris (obviously affected by all the sunshine) had rushed on to the B&B whilst we had a pootle around Wells. We called him back for carbs before reaching the accomodation ourselves. The team decision was Pizza. Jerry was very concerned about the vfm (value for money) factor when comparing his 12" with John's 14". (However, as he should know; a 12" provides an mere 113 sq inches of pizza whilst a 14" provides a whopping 154 sq inches: a 36% larger pizza. Besides, he needed a further dose of chocolate fudge cake to make up the shortfall) Full and happy we rolled on to the farm for a shower an a night's rest, having locked our bikes in the host's garage alongside an immaculate 1930s Rolls Royce!
MILES: 100 approx
Yellow Jersey: Chris
MILES: 100 approx
Yellow Jersey: Chris
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Hinstock to Upton-Upon-Severn
What Julian forgot to say is that before I (Jeremy) came out on this challenge I asked expert advice on my bike's ability to do the end to end!! Anyway this morning, before we left for our 74 mile journey I placed a new tyre on my bicycle.
Although the weather has been disappointing, I think everyone enjoyed the route which I spent 18 months planning. It has been challenging, but also it involves various types of scenery, from the Scottish Highlands to the Moorfoot Hills to the Lake District (which was a wash out!). Even the trip passing through the built up areas of Britian (by passing Manchester, Crewe and Birmingham) went well.
The B&B last night was good, allowing us to wash our clothes (shame they were not dried properly, but beggers can't be choosers) and they allowed us to use their computer so we can post three days of our blog!
The first 24 miles went quickly and we arrived at Ironbridge which appears to be undergoing a renovation. We had a coffee stop as it began to rain, by now we were getting used to getting soaked!! Afterwards we decided eventually to try the new cycle path (no 45) to Bridgnorth. The surface was variable and on the whole it was quite reasonable and we were impressed when we cycled pass an old railway station with the old signage outside, it was like going back in time and you expected a train to come any moment.
Bridgnorth appeared to be a great town to explore, but we did not have the time to stay as we needed to get in the mileage, so we cyled on to Bewdley. This is another attractive town built on the shore of the River Severn, and it was here where we had a snack and an ice cream. It was at this town when we saw for the first time since our adventure blue skies and we began to feel the heat of the sun.
The final ride of the day was flattish, which we were not used to, and so the miles went by quickly. Worcester was busy as we tackled the roads with the commuters heading home from work. We arrived at Upton by 5.15pm and was welcomed by the b&b with a nice cup of coffee and a chance to work the Italian cycle race on Sky.
We finished the day with a Curry, and if anyone knows me, I do not eat Curry, but the mild dish was quite tasty and filling. Tomorrow (Thurs 19th) is our hundred mile ride to Wells so we are leaving at 8am.
Although the weather has been disappointing, I think everyone enjoyed the route which I spent 18 months planning. It has been challenging, but also it involves various types of scenery, from the Scottish Highlands to the Moorfoot Hills to the Lake District (which was a wash out!). Even the trip passing through the built up areas of Britian (by passing Manchester, Crewe and Birmingham) went well.
The B&B last night was good, allowing us to wash our clothes (shame they were not dried properly, but beggers can't be choosers) and they allowed us to use their computer so we can post three days of our blog!
The first 24 miles went quickly and we arrived at Ironbridge which appears to be undergoing a renovation. We had a coffee stop as it began to rain, by now we were getting used to getting soaked!! Afterwards we decided eventually to try the new cycle path (no 45) to Bridgnorth. The surface was variable and on the whole it was quite reasonable and we were impressed when we cycled pass an old railway station with the old signage outside, it was like going back in time and you expected a train to come any moment.
Bridgnorth appeared to be a great town to explore, but we did not have the time to stay as we needed to get in the mileage, so we cyled on to Bewdley. This is another attractive town built on the shore of the River Severn, and it was here where we had a snack and an ice cream. It was at this town when we saw for the first time since our adventure blue skies and we began to feel the heat of the sun.
The final ride of the day was flattish, which we were not used to, and so the miles went by quickly. Worcester was busy as we tackled the roads with the commuters heading home from work. We arrived at Upton by 5.15pm and was welcomed by the b&b with a nice cup of coffee and a chance to work the Italian cycle race on Sky.
We finished the day with a Curry, and if anyone knows me, I do not eat Curry, but the mild dish was quite tasty and filling. Tomorrow (Thurs 19th) is our hundred mile ride to Wells so we are leaving at 8am.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Inglewhite to Hinstock(not Market Drayton)
Excellent B&B last night at the farm in the sticks of Lancashire
Wet start in Preston guided smoothly thru by Chris & Garmin, followed by Jerry's excellent moorland route found us dicing with hypothermia yet again, all our dry kit soaked in minutes.
Finding a way thru the built up areas, found some dry road in Wigan as the rain eased.
Met John's sister at Middlewich, stopping at the Golden Lion for lunch.cooked in the burger van outside
Riders split: The 2 JB's lingering at the pub while the bike shopping mission left to buy more bike parts for Jerry's heap.
Wet start in Preston guided smoothly thru by Chris & Garmin, followed by Jerry's excellent moorland route found us dicing with hypothermia yet again, all our dry kit soaked in minutes.
Finding a way thru the built up areas, found some dry road in Wigan as the rain eased.
Met John's sister at Middlewich, stopping at the Golden Lion for lunch.cooked in the burger van outside
Riders split: The 2 JB's lingering at the pub while the bike shopping mission left to buy more bike parts for Jerry's heap.
Pooley Bridge to Inglewhite
Barton Hall awarded top marks all round. Superb place to stay if spending time in the Lakes.
Today's stage a general washout from start to finish.
Julian's spare tyre was awarded to Jeremy's rear wheel on account of his gross negligence starting a thousand mile ride with dodgy kit. Two punctures confirmed this lax & foolhardy attitude to bike maintenance & personal safety (lame excuses expected to follow).
No one actually saw the Lake District scenery as it was shrouded in thick mist and driving rain.. Found the Kirkstone Pass a doddle compared to North Cornwall. And the fuss was about what?
The fuss was our sodden clothes and flirt with hypothermia for the rest of the day.
Today's stage a general washout from start to finish.
Julian's spare tyre was awarded to Jeremy's rear wheel on account of his gross negligence starting a thousand mile ride with dodgy kit. Two punctures confirmed this lax & foolhardy attitude to bike maintenance & personal safety (lame excuses expected to follow).
No one actually saw the Lake District scenery as it was shrouded in thick mist and driving rain.. Found the Kirkstone Pass a doddle compared to North Cornwall. And the fuss was about what?
The fuss was our sodden clothes and flirt with hypothermia for the rest of the day.
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