 LEJOG MAY 2010 | sitemap | log in
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DIARYTRAVEL DAY – 30th April
Route : Alness – Grangemouth – Lands End
Stats : Stuart – There’s no rush!!!!
Sean – It’s going to be fine!!!!
Darren – I’m starving!!!!
Ross – Why did I offer my services!!!!
The day started with an early rise for some, then Stuart decided to join the group informing them that a stop at Tesco`s was required, that’s after spending the last two days shopping in Inverness. A progressive drive to Grangemouth to pickup Ross and his crate of Red Rooster – (must think driving is going to be tiring). Then it was a long drive south along with the rest of Britain who all decided to head south for the bank holiday weekend.
A lot of silence during the journey meant that there was a lot of thinking being done. Darren – It’s actually a long cycle back. If only my energy products arrived on time. Sean – Not sure if all the hundreds of miles I’ve done on the bike is going to be enough. Stuart – How am I going to get up so early every morning? I’m sure I know the route back north.
Ross – I’m so glad I’m driving; I’ve got cramp at the thought of it!!! Wonder where the nearest pub will be to watch the football.
Eventually after Darren finishing all the sweets and baking and telling everyone that he was starving every hour a late lunch was had, sixty miles north of Exeter. Following a quick break Stuart decided to wake up and take his turn to drive and play his great CD!!!.
With Ross being chauffeured all the way, Lands End was reached at 2000 hours with Darren looking forward to his dinner.
After reaching Lands End it really hit home – “It’s not actually a holiday, it’s going to be a challenge”
Dinner – The Old Success Inn – Sennen Cove – Highly recommended.
DAY 1 – 1st May
Route : Lands End – Truro – Wadebridge - Bude & Stratton
Stats : Distance – 100.3 miles
Time cycling – 6hrs 30mins
Duration of day - 9hrs 30 mins
Ascending – 7458 ft
Cal burnt – 5309 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 179bpm (sean)
Average – 145bpm (sean)
Everyone started the morning on a positive note until Stuart admitted over breakfast that he hadn’t actually looked at the route sheets yet. Ross then realised what he had taken on!!! After a photo shoot, too early for official photo, the boys headed north with Darren and Stuart doing well at an early stage, going up a one way system. A few miles in and the boys started to shed their Scottish cycling clothes to summer weather clothing. After a few teething problems Ross got the hang of the route sheets and got the boys on the right roads, most of the time, after the help of a number of locals.
Good weather and smooth roads enabled the boys to make good progress. Stuart had a short break when he felt that it would be a good idea to lie down on the road!!!!!
A short break in the centre of Truro was welcomed by the boys. Ross made friends with the locals quickly to confirm he was leading the boys in the right direction, (see picts).
Three cyclists soon became five for a short time with some local cyclist’s joining the boys. They were extremely welcomed as they got the boys back on the right road. On discussing the route the local cyclists both smiled and in formed the boys that they would be climbing the highest hills in Cornwall. Stuart, Darren and Sean all smiled nervously at hearing this; deep down thinking it can’t be that bad.
What a surprise, Darren was getting hungry. Next stop was lunch, The Moleswoth Arms, Wadebridge. (highly recommended, quick service) It was there Stuart discovered why he shouldn’t make his energy drink so strong, few pounds lost and that wasn’t due to cycling!!!!
Following lunch the boys quickly found that they were climbing the highest hills in Cornwall. They got to a stage that they didn’t want any descents as a descent meant that they would only suffer as they would have to ascend twice as much. Price to pay for taking the costal route.
It became evident that Darren’s smooth legs helped him up every hill, making him more aerodynamic. If only the sun would give them a bit of colour!!!!
A welcomed sign late on the day, Bude 10 miles, the boys knew their climbing was soon to come to an end for one day and more importantly it was time for more food.
The boys reached their destination, Oak Lodge Bed and Breakfast just in time before the heavens opened.
Ross was delighted to see he got the short straw, camp bed for him.
After a quick shower and applying plenty sudocrem, still not sure why Ross needed any, the boys were back on the road in search for food. After a good meal at The Inn On The Green, Bude, (recommended) and meeting the locals, (see picts) the boys were glad to get back to the B&B where Sean made sure that Stuart actually looked at the map for the following days ride.
Following a small, very small Southern Comfort the boys were all tucked up in bed early with Ross trying to figure out how he’d get the rest of his body onto the camp bed.
Accommodation – Oak Lodge, Stratton, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 9AT, 01288 354144 (highly recommended, 4 star)
A lot of encouragement from locals and text messages were welcomed by all throughout the day!!!!!!!!!
DAY 2 - 2nd May
Route : Bude & Stratton – Devon – South Molton – Somerset - Taunton – Wedmore
Stats : Distance – 100.8 miles (HARD MILES)
Time cycling – 7hrs 30mins
Duration of day - 9hrs 30 mins
Ascending – 6111 ft
Cal burnt – 5069 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 168bpm (sean)
Average – 132bpm (sean)
Whilst everyone got themselves prepared for another hard day Stuart relaxed in the bath before breakfast. Following breakfast the boys eased themselves gently onto their saddles and set off in the direction of Holsworthy. The boys thought that a council worker had stolen their van but soon realised that Ross was modelling his new jacket for the occasion, (to be seen by motorists when out of the van or on top of the van !!!!)
The boys had a long tough morning climbing. Nothing prepared them for the hills. Darren was excited for a very short time when he saw signs for 25% decent but soon realised at the bottom there was a sign for a 25% ascent. His speed went from 47.5mph to less than 3mph extremely quickly. Most of the climbs saw the boys out of their saddles in the lowest gear they had with them struggling to turn their pedals.
Fifteen miles in and Darren ripped his back tyre, whilst Ross came to his rescue, Stuart and Sean decided to benefit from this and carried on climbing.
Darren got back on the road and continued to climb, catching the boys eventually!!!! Stuart then punctured, any excuse for a rest. Poor Ross had to drink extra Red Rooster after being kept so busy.
The boys continued to climb until they reached South Molton where a welcomed lunch break was had. The Corn Dolly, South Molton (it’s a must, highly recommended) was recommended to the boys. Darren couldn’t believe his eyes when he saw the home made baking. Darren had his meal finished and was stuck into his Fudge cake by the time Sean had taken his first mouthful.
Following lunch the boys were set on their way by a fellow LEJOG cyclist (10 yrs ago) chuckling away to him self, “why are you going that way.” The boys were climbing again in the direction of Taunton. To make matters worse as the hills got less the road surface got worse. The boys were rattled about on their bikes for some time as the rode on a “temporary road surface” for some time.
The days climbing and constant head wind was taking its toll on the boys, an afternoon break was well deserved. With 30 miles to go moral was low until the boys found themselves riding along flatter roads where speeds started to increase.
Following a slight detour around Taunton the boys found themselves on the A38 (723 casualties in 5 years) on their homeward straight to Wedmore. Nearly another casualty if Darren told Stuart one more time how far they still had to go.
After another Red Rooster Ross collect the boys in Wedmore and took them to their accommodation, Best Western, Webbington Hotel and SPA, Loxton (recommended) where they enjoyed a dip in the pool and quick steam room.
Following dinner the boys confirmed the next day’s route, well Sean did whilst Stuart and Ross relaxed, Darren just kept applying heaps of sudocrem, “How am I going to sit on my saddle tomorrow.”
Lets hope tomorrow is easier!!!!!!!!!
DAY 3 – 3rd May
Route : Wedmore – Bristol – Avonmouth – Severn Brige – Chepstow - Coleford – Monmouth – Hereford – Bodenham
Stats : Distance – 82 miles
Time cycling – 6hrs 20 mins
Duration of day - 8hrs 30 mins
Ascending – 5009 ft
Cal burnt – 4243 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 167 bpm (sean)
Average – 119bpm (sean)
Third morning and Sean finds himself saying, “It`s quarter to seven Stu!” with the same reply coming from Stuart, “and so what.” Over breakfast the boy`s decided to change their route in order for them to pass through Wales. Eventually all the boys were fed and watered and raring to go.
The boys had a good start, well some had, Darren took some time to ease himself onto his saddle, in fact he spend the rest of the day wiggling about trying to get comfy.
Thirteen was certainly unlucky for Sean today. Thirteen miles in, four miles from Bristol Sean lost concentration, excited about getting to Bristol, Stuart slowed down causing Sean to collide with his rear wheel. Sean was then observed in Ross’s rear view mirror lying at the side of the road. Sean soon picked himself up, more concerned about his dirty jacket than he was about himself, and headed for Bristol.
The boys found themselves cycling parallel with the River Avon. They were accompanied by many cyclists and runners, this kept the boys spirits up and the miles were soon covered.
At Avonmouth a costa coffee sign was a great sight. Everyone took advantage of this to keep energy levels up. Here the boys spoke to fellow LEJOG cyclist who had just bought himself a map to keep him on the right the road north. He told the boys, “two days to go and I’ll be at nan`s house, good food and a decent bed.” (Nan doesn’t realise how lucky she is, she nearly had four long lost grandson’s) Once he ripped a number of pages out of the map he took off in the direction of the Severn Bridge.
After fuelling up the boys also headed in the direction of the Severn Bridge, along the way they caught up with some local cyclist’s who kept the boys amused for the rest of the day. (see picts).
The boys took the cycle path over the bridge as Ross`s paid £10 to have the pleasure of using the road.
Once across the bridge Darren told the boys he knew where to go, resulting in a twelve mile de tour. One minute the boys were in Wales the next they were back in England. Last time any one will listen to him. The boys de tour took them in the direction of Coleford which consisted of a lot of climbing, total of 1000 ft gained. Following Stuart having a quick break, lying on the tarmac once again, the boys got caught up in a hail shower.
Ross was a welcomed sight in Coleford, everyone was ready for lunch. Darren’s eye’s light up when he saw some one tucking into a full cooked breakfast in Kaplans Café, Coleford. Needless to say the café was lunch stop. Both Stuart and Darren tucked up into a good healthy cooked breakfast which took it`s toll later in the day. It was at this time that a major disaster struck; Darren spilt beans on his white shorts.
Following lunch the boys headed for Monmouth ( Trefynwy ) on the B4228 back into Wales, which consisted of lovely descending on smooth roads. The boys enjoyed this for a short time before they started ascending again in the direction of Hereford on the A466. Whilst ascending Darren caught up with a fellow cyclist who introduced himself as Ken an elderly gentleman who was out for a daily cycle ride. It`s a small world, Ken told Darren that he has a house in Lochinver which he visits regularly and intends to move back to the area in the near future. Ken wished the boys luck and headed of in another direction.
Once at the top of the climb another lovely descent followed with Darren trying to race Ross. Ross had a slight edge on Darren, must have been the Red Rooster taking effect.
At the bottom the boys had a short break where Ross thought he’d get a bit of exercise, cycling Stuart’s bike for a split second. “Ouch that hurts!!” That was more than enough for him.
The boys continued towards Hereford, again ascending. At Hereford they boys cycled past there accommodation, how tempting was it for them to stop. The boy’s will power kept them going with the thought of having a long soak in the bath at the end of the day. Ross was perfecting his way of communicating with the boys, (next roundabout take the first exit) right arm making several circular movements before pointing in a random direction.
The boys finished the day with a killer climb into Bodenhan and a short journey back to the Travel Lodge, The Grafton, Hereford, where they were all devastated to find that no one had a bath!!!!!
DAY 4 – 4th May
Route : Bodenham – Leominster – Shrewsbury – Whitchurch - Warrington
Stats : Distance – 99.1 miles
Time cycling – 6hrs 38mins
Duration of day - 9hrs
Ascending – 2530ft
Cal burnt – 4455 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 170 bpm (Sean)
Average – 119 bpm (Sean)
Day four started with the sun breaking through the clouds and Stuart still wandering about in a towel with the rest of the boys in the van.
A quick bite to eat was planned at the nearest 24 hour Asda which in fact only opened at eight. After a health breakfast, Sean would disagree with that, the boys were back on the saddle, or should I say tried on ease their behinds onto their saddles. After the first five miles of sheer pain Darren had to have a quick pit stop and change his saddle which instantly eased his pain.
The boys continued, making good progress, in the direction of Leominister on the A49. It wasn`t long before the boys were shedding their clothes and applying sun cream, maybe a bit more would have saved them all looking like pandas by the end of the day.
The boys continued on the A49 to Whitchurch where they enjoyed a good hearty lunch in Fionas Café, WhiteChurch. Following lunch Sean got to know some of the locals, he even offered his assistance to some holiday makers by giving them local directions!!!!!!
After Stuart sorting himself out which consisted of applying a lot of cream, the boys were back on the A49 cycling in the direction of Warrington. A lot of fast flowing traffic meant that the boys found themselves cycling alone for long periods of time.
Sean and Darren did comment that the scenery was nice, “ Do you two actually look up, I only see the tarmac in front of me” replied Stuart.
The boys fought with a head wind for most of the day whilst Ross fought with sleep, he even left the boys to it at an important roundabout where Stuart decided to ignore the traffic and also the red traffic lights!!!!!!
With fifteen miles to go until the boys reached their destination Stuart stopped at the support van where it was evident that he was in pain. At this point he contemplated using his energy gel as a suppository rather than for a boost of energy, “ I think I`ve broken my skin, wait until you see the beast of a seat I`m going to get for tomorrow from Asda.”
It`s amazing how Stuart managed to hover over his saddle all the way Warrington. Once there the boys packed the van up and Ross got them to their night’s accommodation, Travel Lodge, Middlewich, where they were all delighted to see a bath in each room.
Following a well deserved meal in The Salt Celler, Middlewich (recommended, good meal deals) Stuart went in hunt for a 24 hour Asda for his new saddle and tub’s of sudeocrem.
The boys again received a number of encouraging text messagesduring the day from friends, relations and loved ones back home.
Any thoughts, suggestions or feedback on the diary is encouraged via the feedback page.
DAY 5 – 5th May
Route : Warrington– Wigan – Preston – Lancaster – Kendal
Stats : Distance – 75 miles
Time cycling – 5 hrs 08 mins
Duration of day - 8 hrs
Ascending – 1693ft
Cal burnt – 3537 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 159 bpm (Sean)
Average – 119 bpm (Sean)
Day five and the boys were shocked, only a ten minute wait for Stuart. It was straight to Asda for breakfast, so much for Darren not having any more cooked breakfasts!!! While got stuck into their food Stuart was hunting the isles for cream and the biggest saddle he could find. Stuart was out of luck with the saddle but he got the next best thing, a hand mit, “an actual micro fibre one, nothing but the best!!!!” (see picts) Once taped on top of his saddle he felt like a new man.
The boys left Warrington in the middle of rush hour and headed towards Wigan on the A49. It was a wet morning for the boys but they soon got warmed up and covered the miles. With Sean and Stuart taking a slight de tour through Wigan, they were reunited a few miles north with the help of Ross. At this point Stuart experience his first irate driver who made a hand signal like he was shaking a bottle of ketchup.
With Ross sitting at the side of the road in the van he was becoming more and more noticeable with his orange jacket on. An elderly gentleman approached Ross and donated money towards the charity.
The boys continued cycling north joining the A6 after Preston. The boys passed through a number of small town`s and villages which were all very picturesque. With the boys getting hungry they kept a good pace and headed for Lancaster. Darren soon caught up with a fellow cyclist (see picts) who introduced himself as Andrew. Darren explained to him where they were heading, after Andrew said, “total respect” a number of times they both continued towards Lancaster. As they passed the sign for Lancaster, Andrew screamed at the top of his voice, “welcome to Lancaster, total respect!!!!” nearly bursting Darren`s ear drum. Darren then waited for the others while Andrew wished him well, wiped the snot from his face and sweat from his brow and continued along the road.
The boys then enjoyed lunch in Penny Street Bridge, Lancaster (highly recommended) untilthey got the bill. The boys were far too comfortable at lunch, having a slightly longer lunch than normal.
Following lunch the sky started to clear up, outer clothing was removed and cream was applied (not sun cream) before the boys continued up the A6 in the direction of Kendal. As the boys left Lancaster, Andrew from earlier passed the boys in the opposite direction, punched the sky and roared, “total respect.” This kept the boys going for the rest of the day.
The boys continued to Kendal where Stuart was suffering from a painful thigh. It was decided that they would call it a day. Given that the boys were ahead of schedule, they had earned themselves an early finish, especially since their hotel, The Whoop Hall, Kirby, Longsdale (highly recommended) had a SPA facility.
Once at the hotel the boys took full advantage of the facilities before dinner.
HALF WAY MARK !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DAY 6 – 6th May – Election day
Route : Kendal – Penrith – Carlisle – Longtown – Langholm - Hawick
Stats : Distance – 80 miles
Time cycling – 6 hrs 15 mins
Duration of day – 9hrs 30mins
Ascending – 3611 ft
Cal burnt – 3620 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 174 bpm (Sean)
Average – 127 bpm (Sean)
Looking out the window the boys saw the rain bouncing of the ground; it was a thought for them to get out on the bikes.
The boys were not long on the bikes before they started climbing on the A6 towards Penrith through the beautiful Lake District skirting around the Cumbrian Mountians to the highest point of the day at Shap, 1450ft. A few miles of climbing and Stuart suffered a mechanical failure. He had broken spokes on his rear wheel. Darren blissfully unaware, kept his head down and continued climbing whilst Stuart relaxed leaving Sean and Ross to sort out the spare bike for him. It’s wasn’t long before Stuart was on the bike climbing again. The boys climbed 1300 feet within the first hour of being on the bike.
With Darren once again going the wrong way and finding himself on the slip road for the motorway, Stuart and Sean had the perfect opportunity to make some ground on him. Think they let him continue in the wrong direction deliberately to tire him out.
The boys were reunited prior to stopping in Penrith for a coffee and millionaire shortbread. Some had to have more than others, Stuart!!!!! Following coffee the boys seeked out the nearest bike shop, Arragon`s Cycle Centre, Penrith. Whilst finding the shop Stuart got to know the locals with a few choice words being exchanged, what does he expect cycling up a one way street.
The boys were like children in a sweetie shop when in the bike shop. Sean took the opportunity to relax within the shop (see picts) Think he was offered a job as a mannequin. With the time ticking the boys left Ross to sort out the wheel whilst they continued to weave in and out of the traffic, still on the A7 towards Carlisle.
The thought of reaching the border kept the boys spirits high. It wasn’t long before they had reached Carlisle. Again they weaved in and out the traffic, Darren was more concerned cycling next to Stuart and Sean than he was with the traffic. This time it was Sean who tried to familiarise himself with the locals. Don’t think he was being accepted by them as an elderly gentleman swung for him with his walking stick. It’s not to say the elderly gentleman received some pleasantries from Sean!!!!!!!
The boys soon ducked and dived through the traffic and found themselves in Longtown for lunch at Grahams Arm Hotel, Longtown, where they found all the locals surrounding the fruit machine. Following lunch the boys were back on the bike and heading towards the border. As the boys crossed the border the weather started to improve.
It wasn’t long after the boys had crossed the border when they observed a mad Scot running along the side of the road wearing a tartan jacket checking some road kill. Sean confirmed with them that it was dead!!!!!
Whilst cycling Stuart kept the boys amused with the seepage coming from his behind, bit much cream applied!!!! (see picts)
At road works prior to Langholm the boys were held up for a short time. Sean spoke with the traffic controller, “What like coff.” The man took some time to respond then asked, “Have you just cycled from Ireland.”.
With mechanical failures and another day of head winds the time was ticking on. The boys decided to keep cycling until half six then call it a day. The boys kept their heads down and continued cycling the A7 along the valley floor, Teviotdale, before climbing again.
It`s wasn’t long before the boys finished their day, eight miles south of Hawick. Ross soon had the boys bikes loaded up into the van before heading to Ecclefechan to their hotel for the evening, Kirkconal Hall Hotel, (faulty towers, it`s a must!!!) There the boys were greeted by Basil who soon had the boy’s clothes off them and into the washing machine. Think Stuart gave him his whole families washing to do for him.
Stuart and Sean found that their room had three beds, think Basil going to be in with them for the night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The boys soon got settled into the quaint surroundings with Basil keeping them amused.
As Basil got settled down in front of the TV with a big whisky Sean went in search of the tumble drier as he thought his assos shorts would end up in there after Basil having one too many!!!!!!!!!
Sean has pointed out on a number of occasions now at the alarming rate at which Darren is able to consume his food, not only his food, but also the remainder of Sean’s food. It appears that Darren is ordering his food after Sean has placed his order so he can have two meals for the price of one.
Stuart received a number of emails with positive feedback regarding the diary page. The boys welcome feed back and encouragement to keep them going.
DAY 7 – 7th May
Route : Hawick (Teviothead) – Selkirk – Galashields – Edinburgh – Dunfermline - Drum
Stats : Distance – 94.3 miles
Time cycling – 7 hrs 15 mins
Duration of day – 10 hrs
Ascending – 4153 ft
Cal burnt – 4358 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 166 bpm (Sean)
Average – 119 bpm (Sean)
The day started with the boys being pointed to their table by Basil who looked as if he had not seen his bed. The boys were soon fed, cooked breakfast consisted of toast and told to help themselves to apples which Basil was squeezing and then dunted off the table.
The boys were slightly later getting onto their bikes, yes Stuart held them up, he decided to get back onto his own bike which meant he sat back while everyone got it ready for him.
Once the boys got going they headed up the A7 through Hawick to Selkirk. From the first stroke of the pedal the boys suffered a horrendous head wind. It was a lovely dry day apart from the wind.
Sean suffered his first puncture prior to Selkirk where the boys stopped for a well deserved break. Whilst having coffee and cake two elderly women commented on how fit Stuart looked!!!! On asking where the boys were heading Stuart told them that the reason for the challenge. Both women donated £5 each which was gratefully received.
Following lunch the boys battled again with the head wind in the direction all the way into Edinburgh. The boys intended to join the city bypass but bicycles were prohibited so Ross left the boys to fend for them selves through Edinburgh. Darren took over the directions and got the boys right into the heart of Edinburgh. On cycling up Princess Street the boys weaved in and out the traffic like true couriers. By this time the boys were starving, Darren looked as if he was wasting away.
The boys had a late lunch (1600hrs) in, Crammon Brig, Edinburgh where Darren had to change another tyre due to a bulge appearing.
After lunch the boys dreaded getting back out on their bikes as they knew they had a long way still to go. On getting back on the bikes Darren was still in charge of directions. He managed to take the boys a slight de tour through South Queensferry which Stuart and Sean were extremely overjoyed with!!! “It`s ok I know where I am going” was something Stuart and Sean heard for the rest of the day. The boys were soon on the Fourth Road Bridge were they were restricted to 15mph!!!!!!!
After the bridge the boys cycled to Dunfermline where Ross took over directions again, luckily for Sean and Stuart. They then cycled on the A823 passed Knockhill where the sun was shinning, they continued down to Powmill where they joined the A977 and cycled to Drum to their accommodation, Glendale Lodge, Drum. It was here Ross had the biggest smile on his face. This was the end for Ross and the start for George, wonder if Ross will hand over his jacket!!!!. The boys were extremely grateful to the Red Rooster for stepping in at short notice. It was a relief having Ross drive rather than cycle!!!!
There the boys were greeted by Jenny, “Come on in boys I`ll show you all how the showers work.” Jenny then explained that the lower the number on the dial the lower the temperature. The boys were extremely gratefully for this information. The boys found that they had well equipped bedrooms with new toothbrushes, robes, his and hers for Sean and Stuart. Jenny who is certainly no spring chicken, stated she could cater for everybody’s needs.
Whilst Jenny`s happy husband stocked the fire the boys lined their fresh smelling shoes on the hearth. Jenny did tell the boys to make themselves at home. “How many are actually staying the night” was all the boys heard from Jenny`s husband.
Whilst having their showers the boys heard a full blown domestic erupting in the kitchen. The boys moved quicker than they did all day, they threw their clothes on and hot footed to the van and drove a mile to the nearest pub, The Inn, Drum for their dinner.
“Wonder if we’ll go back to a murder scene when we get back!!!”
The boys deserve a good early night after such a hard day, such a shame they too scared to go back to Jenny`s!!!!
Day 8 - 8th May
Route : Drum – Kinross – Milnathort – Glenfarg – Perth – Bankfoot – Pitlochry – Blair Atholl – Dalwhinnie - Newtonmore
Stats : Distance – 92 miles
Time cycling – 7 hrs
Duration of day – 10 hrs 30 mins
Ascending – 2227 ft
Cal burnt – 4098 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 160 bpm (Sean)
Average – 110 bpm (Sean)
Luckly for the boys Jenny escaped any harm from her domestic, she was up bright and breezy making the boys breakfast, however she did dash out of the house and down the road for a short time after Darren asked her for ketchup, returning with a half empty bottle!!!
The boys were soon ready and waiting for their driver to arrive, can you believe Stuart was actually waiting for someone else!!!! George soon arrived with Debbie and Millie who wished the boys luck as they left in the glorious sun. The boys soon felt a strong head wind, again!!! From the onset Sean was in agony with a swollen achillies tendon, he had doubts if he`d finish the day. However he tried to forget about the pain for a short time by taking pictures of himself.
They headed along the A977 towards Kinross and into Milnathort where George negotiated the first roundabout several times, thought he was going to be keeping the boys right.
From Milnathort the boys continued towards Glenfarg and into Perth. Just when the boys thought they were going to have a dull day they met Ian Bruce, or should I say Darren did. How’s does he attract them!!! After telling Ian where they were heading he suggested that he`d take them through Perth, the tourist route. Only if the boys promised to keep the speed down as his crocks would slide of the pedals at 14 mph. Ian took the boys up the side of the Tay River which was a fantastic route. As they cycled Ian could hardly keep his hands on the handle bars as he was pointing to absolutely everything of interest and even not of interest in Perth.
On the outskirts of Perth Ian said he would take his map out and show the boys where to go, as if they weren`t familiar with the A9, they let him continue as he was so excited about helping them. Sean was looking forward to seeing an OS map being spread out on the road. Ian disappointed him and produced a map on his I Phone. After explaining to the boys where to go they continued North on the A9 to Bankfoot for coffee and cake where Johnny Cash, Ring of Fire was blasting out, very appropriate!!!!!. I`m sure Ian`s still wondering why Stuart had so much cream leaking out of his shorts!!!
After a quick stop the boys were back on their bikes, for some only for a split second before they were lying on the ground again, Stuart!!!! Once back on the bike they headed up the old A9 towards Dunkeld where the joined the A9 and continued to Pitlochry. Not sure where George thought they were going, as he was on a back road waiting for them he saw them cycling passed. He caught up with them in time as they entered Pitlochry, they then continued through Pitlochry and into Blair Atholl where they basked in the sun whilst having lunch.
Now that the boys were more familiar with the road on which they are now cycling on this seemed to work against them as they all knew what was around each and every corner.
It wasn’t long before the boys were back on the A9 cycling North. Sean was suffering from his injury which meant he had to stop regularly to apply deep heat to. The boys kept their heads down and battled against the wind. George was wondering what was keeping the boys, “Is there actually a head wind.” On saying that George was told to get out of the van and cycle, “ Wow there is a strong head wind.”
After proving their point the boys continued. At Dalwhinnie the boys were greeted by Mike and Kyle who were travelling North after Kyle had been away racing. The boys didn`t hang about as time was getting on and the wind wasn`t getting any easier.
They reached Balavil Hotel, Newtonmore in time for a quick dip in the pool before dinner. George left the boys to it, he sneaked of for forty winks!!!
The boys, looking tired, are looking forward to the next day`s cycling when they will be cycling through their home town, Alness. Let’s hope they look a bit fresher!!!!
DAY 9 – 9th May
Route – Newtonmore – Kingussie - Kincraig – Aviemore – Carrbridge – Tomatin - Moy – Inverness – Alness – Tain - Dornoch
Stats : Distance – 87.9 miles
Time cycling – 5 hrs 53 mins
Duration of day – 9 hrs
Ascending – 2405t ft
Cal burnt – 3810 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 160 bpm (Sean)
Average – 122 bpm (Sean)
Know one could believe it, Stuart actually sat down for breakfast with everyone else this morning, mind you everything was done for him. Think Sean even washed his back for him!!!!
After breakfast the boys were surrounded by a number of elderly women who were travelling to John O`Groats by bus. The majority of who were delighted to see the boys raising money for a worth while cause. After emptying their pockets the boys jumped onto the bikes and headed for Carrbridge where the first stop of the day was scheduled. Easy seeing the boys were heading in the direction of home, their heads were down and the miles were being covered quickly. Once reaching Carrbridge the boys had a very quick stop. They were soon back on the bike and cycling along the old A9.
At Tomatin the boys were overtaken by a red Peugeot with the boot wide open and a camera pointing in their faces. It was Eddie, Ness Provideo, who was in the area, wanted to catch the boys on their journey home. Stuart might have had a shave if he knew he was going to be filmed. With the boys being filmed this encouraged them on even more and their pace soon increased. The boys thought it would be a good idea to try and get in behind Eddie to shelter from the wind, shame Eddie thought they were performing for the camera, he increased his speed also leaving the boys exposed to the wind once again.
At Moy a familiar face appeared, David, cycling towards the boys modelling the full Cromarty Firth Cycling gear. David thought he’d cycle back to Alness with the boys for encouragement. Sean admitted, “Never thought I’d be so happy to see his arse in front of me.” The boys were soon back out onto the A9 and climbing Daviot towards Inverness, again being filmed and photographed by Eddie.
The boys were soon over the Kessock Bridge when they though that they were under attack from a crazy woman leaning out of a silver golf trying to hit them with a union jack flag. No they weren’t under attack after all; it was Laura and her family congratulating the boys on their journey so far. Let’s hope the boys don’t get knocked off their bikes tomorrow with the same flag!!!!
Once on the Cromarty Hill the boys knew lunch was near, they were to stop at Foulis, Storehouse where a welcoming party was waiting. With the boys being filmed going over the Cromarty Bridge, yes there was some tail back of traffic, they were soon at Foulis, the first time all three boys smiled at the same time. They were delighted to see family and friends there waiting for them or was it the baking that they were more excited about!!! Stuart was welcomed by words of wisdom, “ I didn’t think you’d make it this far !!!!!”
After the boys having cycled all the way from Lands End they were delighted at being told they were not allowed to keep a seat until they had ordered food, resulting in everyone having to sit outside eating in the cold!!!!
After a long lunch the boys were back on the bikes and cycling north to Dornoch. The boys couldn’t get there quick enough after having seen their families, once in Dornoch they would be driving back home for the night. The boys made a slight de tour off the A9 and cycled through their home town, Alness. They survived Alness coming out the other end with everything they went in with.
At Kildary the boys were met and congratulated by Mike and Kyle. Any opportunity for Mike to be out posing in his TVR!!! They didn’t hang about long as the rain started. The boys continued north on the A9 to Tain where George had forty winks!!! The boys escaped the wind by going through Tain.
With the Dornoch Bridge in sight the boys continued as quickly as they could without causing too much pain to their behinds!!!! The boys were soon in Dornoch where Stuart jumped into the van whilst Sean and Darren packed the van up!!!!
George then drove the boys to the best hotels they could find, home!!!! When travelling home over the Dornoch Bridge they passed the boy who they had met in Bristol, he was still cycling away by himself; he obviously ripped out the right pages of his map. The boys hope to catch up with him tomorrow.
This was the end of the road for George, back to work for him. The boys were delighted with his help over the last two days, even although they had to keep him right.
Stuart was told on a number of occasions that he would be picked up at 0700 hours the following morning. The smile on Stuarts face said it all.
DAY 10 – 10th May – FINAL DAY!!!!!
Route – Dornoch – Golspie – Brora – Helmsdale – Dunbeath – Lybster - Wick – John O`Groats
Stats : Distance – 82 miles
Time cycling – 6 hrs
Duration of day – 9 hrs
Ascending – 3954 ft
Cal burnt – 3491 (Sean)
Heart rate – max – 172 bpm (Sean)
Average – 120 bpm (Sean)
The final morning and for once Stuart was ready on time, Darren was the late one, I`m sure he was late due to the time it took him to tuck into a massive cooked breakfast made by mummy!!!!
The boys were at Dornoch in good time with their new driver, Laura, taking the drivers seat for the day.
Prior to the boys jumping onto their saddles for the last day Stuart confirmed, “I examined myself last night and I do actually have saddle sores full of puss.”
After much laughter the boys wrapped up, coldest morning so far, and starting spinning the pedals north on the A9.
The boys didn’t take long before they had reached Golspie and beyond. The boys were making extremely good progress given the head wind. It was obvious that they had one target today, that was to get to John O`Groats as quick as possible. Darren still had time to take a quick de tour in by Dunrobin Castle to take a quick photo.
It was nice to see that the boys were getting so much encouragement from the local drivers; they just couldn’t work out why the encouragement consisted of middle fingers being raised, clenched fists being shaken and horns being blasted at them. It is un believable how many clueless ignorant drivers are driving on our roads!!!!!!!
It wasn’t very hard to work out Laura’s occupation by the way in which she strategically parked the support vehicle at the side of the road whilst she waited for the boys!!!!
After a short snow shower the boys were in Helmsdale tucking into home baking provided by family and friends. Poor James is going to go without some home baking for a while. Stuart and Sean tried to explain to Darren that although they had a lot of baking it didn’t have to be eaten before John O`Groats.
After applying sudocrem the boys were back on the saddle and climbing out of Helmsdale.
As they climbed the hill at Navidale they were encouraged by Porky who drove past dangling a bottle of beer tied to a pole out of the passenger window. Porky told the boys that he had bought some cakes for them, obviously he got hungry driving, the cakes never made it to John O`Groats!!!!
The boys driver, videographer and photographer shot off up the Berriedale Braes to capture the boys on camera. Darren was delighted to hear that Laura never caught him on camera must have been going down hill too fast. It was unbelievable how easy the boys found Berriedale, it was obvious how much climbing the boys had endured prior to reaching this point.
The boys decide to keep going north to Wick where they were going to stop for lunch. With the constant head wind the boys kept their heads down pedalled away at a good pace.
After Lybster the boys were passed by friendly faces who were en route to welcome them into John O`Groats. I`m sure all the other cyclists heading north appreciated getting filmed, photographed and encouraged along the way. Little did they know they were mistaken for Darren, Stuart and Sean. Take it no bums were examined for cream!!!!!
Due to the boys making good progress they treated themselves to lunch in Mackays Hotel, Wick. After a mini burger which Stuart ate in one mouthful they were back on the bikes for their home run to John O`Groats.
It wasn`t long after leaving Wick when the boys caught up with Bradley, the boy they had met in Bristol on day two. He was remarkably still going well, obviously kept the appropriate pages in his map. After telling the boys that he hadn’t eaten yet, Laura was called to a halt and an array of baking was offered to him. The speed in which he ate three crispy cakes put Darren and Stuart to shame.
From Reiss to John O`Groats the boys suffered the worst head wind for the entire journey, luckily they were just escaping the snow showers. The last hill was in sight, “Come on boys last hill” Darren shouted. As the boys pushed on they were confronted with another two hills. That was certainly the last time anyone was going to listen to Darren. As the boys approached John O`Groats Stuart slowed down leaving a gap between them all. It wasn`t long before he caught up again with something missing, his sporty saddle cover and cream from his bum. He told the boys that he wanted to look his best for all the photographs that were going to be taken of him.
The boys soon reached John O`Groats where they received a massive warm, windy welcome from their friends and family. The boys were delighted to see how many people turned up to welcome them into John O`Groats. Think it was only starting to hit home how well they had done.
After a lot of photographs and champagne the boys were ready for food again!!
As everyone went back to Mackays Hotel, Wick the boys shot of to the Police station for a shower, luckily for Stuart, Adele took a change of clothes for him. It`s a shame she took a tea towel for Stuart and Sean to share.
It wasn’t until the journey home when Sean boasted that he thought he was in the wrong job. He produced a photo on his phone of himself, extremely serious looking modelling a police hat which he had found. Poor Mel, what’s in store for her when he gets home.
Following dinner everyone headed home with the boys being chauffeured by Laura. It wasn’t long before Stuart was sleeping. Poor Laura must have been sick of hearing about bum sores!!!
There was a brief mention about the boys weighing themselves last night. Darren tried to change the subject which didn’t work. With Sean having lost weight Darren reluctantly admitted that he didn`t shed one pound, he just can’t understand why!!!! Stuart maintained that he never weighed himself, more like he was too scared to.
Sean was dropped off first along with his bikes and belongings. Stuart was next. As he left the van he mumbled, “ I`m taking absolutely nothing out of this van tonight”
Darren was delighted he was left with all the baking!!!!!!
I`m sure in the next day or two the boys will realise how much they have achieved, it is a great achievement for them all. They did extremely well.
A massive THANK YOU to, Ross, George and Laura who supported the boys during their journey and to all friends and family who have supported the boys from start to finish. Everyone’s generosity is greatly appreciated.
Hope everyone has enjoyed the diary!!!
The sleepy author will update photo page in due course.
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