tobyUK2Spain

So it's been quite a weekend in the saddle for Preston. After an adventure the previous weekend up to(wards) Hull that ended on a hectic A15 somewhere south of Sleaford, this weekend, I opted for the more genteel and rolling roads of Essex.

Thursday, and a blast around Brentwood. Saturday, a sprint around Weald and Havering, and Sunday a meandering triangle taking in Ongar, Chelmsford, Southend and a moist Vange. With Sunday's 100+ miles, bolted on to the other two jaunts, it took my 4 day mileage up to around 180 miles. 

I can't overstate the importance of time in the saddle when preparing for a long, multi-stage ride. The great news, if you've never done something like this before, is the fatigue after a long ride goes fairly quickly once you stop pedalling for the day. And hills/climbs, albeit uncomfortable at the time, don't leave the legs trashed for too long. 

Toby lamented his relative lack of miles this weekend, but as he rightly pointed out, he's also a seasoned and regular cyclist, and we are not racing each other down to San Javier - we are a team, working together. We are taking on a challenge. And enjoyment will come a long way above the analysis of average speed, or who got where first.

I'm also pleased that an old rugby mucker has plans to meet us in Bath at the end of day two. Another old pal, Stuart, hopes to complete day one with us too. Having 'friends' en-route will be massive for morale. 

And I'm also thrilled that our friends at Cycle Surgery have stepped up to help us with the 'mechanical' side of our adventure. The Romford store has helped me with some new brake pads, tyres, and tightened up my Specialized Ruby, and Toby's about to start a conversation with the Wirral branch about the spares kit, and getting his trusty steed in ship-shape for the epic ride. I'm bound to say this, but it's true. Building a relationship with the tech guys at my local bike shop really means I can hit the road in tip-top condition. Thanks peeps. Worth your weight in gold.

AP (03/07 @ 0030).