Day 8 & 9 - home time

After the elation of finishing the ride, we had a relatively quiet rest of trip.
Saturday morning was spent by the hotel pool. Some played water volleyball, whilst others just enjoyed the sun and the relaxation time.

After lunch we got back on the coach for a 6 hours trip back to Cairo. I think a lot of us used this time to relect on what we'd achieved. I had planned on selling my bike when I got home, but found myself wanting to go for a ride - I don't think my body would have allowed it, but mentally I wanted to!
Once at our final hotel, we had yet more food before our final early night.
We were up at half 5 again to ensure we were back at the airport in time for our 9:20 flight home. The flight was, again, delay but only by half an hour this time. It was a slightly longer flight home and with the mood a bit more subdued there was more 'I-spy' than 'getting to know you' going on, but still fun!!
One slight downer, was that Andy became ill around an hour before we were due to land at Heathrow. Fortunately Doctor Brian was still on hand and ensured that he was well taken care of, even if the airplane didn't have any of the necessary equipment he needed. We heard afterwards that Andy recovered after a couple of days.
Another downer was that a few of our bags were 'mislaid' once we arrived at Heathrow, which meant that some people missed their connections home. On the plus side, it gave us a bit more time together and we had relaxed farewells.

It was wonderful to see Graham after being apart for over a week and, yes, there were a few tears. I think they became tears of boredom on his part after a while though - I didn't shut up on the way home!!!
All in all and to summarise - I had the most amazing, toughest, brilliant and worthwhile week of my life. I would highly recommend it to anyone, no matter what age or current physical ability. If you have the drive to get fit for charity and to have the best experience of your life, then go for it.
If not, then make sure you sponsor me for either this trip, link below, or the next Big Heart Bike Ride which is taking place in Tanzania in June 2011 - yes, I've decided to do it all again!!!
My final thanks for everyone who has sponsored me, supported me in whatever way, and to all my new friends who did the ride - I love you all (need to go now, as it's all got far too soppy!!!!) xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Day 7 - 5th, and final, day of cycling

So, the final day of cycling had arrived. 60km to the finish. Easy, surely?!?!?! Erm, not exactly!!!
Now, some people had their difficult day on the Wednesday, some Thursday, but mine was to arrive today, Friday.
Thursday had ended on such a high and with a real feeling of 'finish' that it was difficult to get back on the bike again for the final day. Also a lot of us had got into our head that the final day would be pretty straight forward, a formality if you will. But no.

The final day consisted of many, many hills (not the 3 Theo, our leader, had advised) and they weren't the kind of hills I was used to riding - the short, sharp, over quite quickly kind of hill, but the long, never ending kind of hill!!!
To add the many hills, we had the mother of all head winds. Never have I experience anything like it, nor do I wish to again. It was a case of cycle up a hill, rejoice, but then cycle down hill (coz the wind was too strong to free wheel), oh and there's another hill!!!
It was truly demoralising. I found myself cycling alone and could see yet another hill in front of me and just broke down in tears. I didn't realise that just 200 yards away the group had stopped for a break. I couldn't stop crying and had to turn up to the rest of the group in tears. Fortunately, pretty much everyone on the ride had experienced a moment like this, so people were so kind. I also wasn't the only one to be having a 'moment' at this particular stop.
Mike, one of the Welsh contingency, very kindly offered to be my wind break for the final leg of the ride. I stuck to his wheel for the next 12km. He sheilded me from the wind and I just followed his back wheel up every, intense, hill. Mike is a very capable cyclist and could have finished the ride in the top few riders, but he very selflessly kept me going. I truly don't think I'd have finished the ride without him. I so didn't want to get in the van and he helped me achieve that, so thank you Mike.

We had lunch at the top of a fjord, just 1.5km from the end. The view was stunning and the sense of relief and achievement was huge.

Once lunch was done, we completed the 1.5km downhill as a group to the finish line. We had people from the hotel out on the road to welcome and applaud us in and we were given medals and bubbly.




Once the saddles and pedals were off the bikes, it time to get all showered and dressed up for our celebratory evening. We had a lovely meal in the hotel restaurant before retiring to the bar for the evening's entertainment.
Paul Smith sang a beautiful, unaccompanied version of Bring Him Home, followed by the Welsh boys, and Paul, who did a parody of Guide Me O' Thy Great Redeemer which included all the highlights of the week (including PJ putting deep heat on his bruise which worked it's way up his leg to his 'man bits'!)

James then made the entire room cry by reading a fantastic poem written by his mate Melissa about their friend Abuka who had passed away the year previous.
Rachel then summed the show up with a wonderful poem she'd written over the past 24 hours which included every person in the group seemlessly.

After the formal proceedings we then danced the rest of the night away - well until about midnight! The boys then found a football pitch and proceeding to play 3 aside until around 3 in the morning!!! You'd think they hadn't just cycled 420km!!!
All in all a wonderful day with so many mixed emotions!

Day 6 - 4th day of cycling

Day 4 of cycling started with the climb up Mount Sinai for some of the group. I opted for a lie in and the chance of actually completing the 105km of day 4! We set off around half 9 and it was clear from the start that this was a different day from the other we'd encountered so far. From the off there were proper hills that you'd encounter back here but then they became very long and intense hills and with the added head wind, it didn't make for enjoyable cycling.

Everyone was becoming weary today, not really surprisingly, and at the top of the last hill of the day everyone was cheering each other on to the top. There was a real group spirit and atmosphere. From here we had a 13km downhill to the hotel. Naturally the boys just let their bikes do the work whilst keeping their heads down while the rest of us just took it easy. It was a tad scary and I did apply the brakes where necessary, most of the time, but we all got down safely and in the daylight.
The hotel had a party atmosphere too. There was a beach bar and the sea was 'just there'. It was very relaxed and really felt like the end of the ride.

We also had entertainment from our guides, which was slightly amusing and I made sure I kept well clear so I couldn't be roped into anything!!! We all finished Thursday on a high - which made Friday harder.......

Day 5 - 3rd day of cycling

Today was going to be tough. 77km (48m) all uphill.
On top of the distance and the gradient it was also around 35deg C.
We started the morning with a short distance of 15km to our first stop with was at a monestery. The second you walked into the grounds you could feel the peace and serentity. It was a small, but perfectly formed place.

After a bit of culture it was time to climb! Again, I just took a steady pace and today found myself riding with James. He made a quip yesterday about me being old enough to be his mother and today I found myself being just that. Every time he went anywhere near the side of the road I'd tell him to move in or when he learnt how to ride without holding onto his handles bars I'd get scared and tell him off!!! Despite the heat and the constant climbing, however, we did have a very good day's cycling.
Many other people didn't however. As one point we were riding with Jayne and we stopped just to have a minute off the bike. She had been listening to her iPod and when we stopped, right in the middle of the desert just 4 of us with no other sounds around, her iPod was playing classical music. I have no idea what it was but it all felt very surreal suddenly!

Another person who struggled was Kristin. She decided to spend some time in the van due to feeling weak and light headed and by the time we'd got to the hotel, showered and was in the bar we heard that an ambulance had taken Kristin, and our doctor, to Sharm El-Sheikh hospital to be checked over.
Kristin was doing the ride with 3 of her close friends. The other 3 girls were, understandably, really shaken by the whole experience. Kristin arrived back at the hotel at 4am the following morning.
It was an early night for most - especially for the guys who were going to climb Mount Sinai. I decided not to get up at 1:45am to climb a crowded mountain but to stay in bed and ensure that I was able to complete all 420km of the ride. I honestly think that if I had climbed my legs wouldn't have held out.

Day 4 - 2nd day of cycling

After a pretty restless night sleep for most - mainly due to the sound of the sea and the snoring - we were up at 5:30am and ready to head off at 7 for a day of 125km (77.5m). We knew that it would be a long day but we were due to stop every 25km for food (bananas, oranges, nuts and cake bars) and water. These stops quickly became a very welcome sight. A man in a yellow t-shirt would be stood on the side of the road to wave us in and after some of the long, long roads it was always a relief to see a 'yellow man'.
Already it was clear who the strong cyclists were - mainly Michael, who became known as 'The Machine', the 3 blokes from Wales, Si, Steve and Larry. A few of the girls were up with them too however I really felt that I had to go at my own pace otherwise I'd never get through the day in one piece. This, however, meant that I found myself on my own for a few long stretches. When the roads are so long that you can't see anyone ahead and then when you turn round there's no one there either, it can be quite scary. But finally a yellow man appeared and after the 1st break I tagged along with Andy, who was there cycling with his son, James, but James was with the 'big boys'.
We did a lot of the day cyclying beside the sea, and the lorries, until we finally turned inland. Andy's knee gave way and he had to have some time off in the van, so I carried on alone once again!

We had lunch after 95km (60m), which gave us, in theory, a nice short ride to our 2nd night of camping. However, it was now the hottest time of the day and we were starting to climb, and get very tired. I found myself on my own again and, very bored, decided to stop and wait for whoever was behind me. It turned out to be Andy and Gay, the event organiser from Action for Charity. Andy's knee couldn't take him any further so Gay and I trundled on. We caught up with a few others along the way and finally finished the mammoth day.
Once again the tent was all erected and mattresses laid out. There was a 'shower' however it was cold and surrounded by curtains so I decided to give it a miss and totally appreciate the shower in the hotel the following day.
Dinner was, once again, amazing as was the camaraderie - I think we were all grateful to have got through the day.

Day 3 - 1st day of cycling

Up early again today in order to get our bikes fitted with our own saddles and pedals. As I was at the beginning of the alphabet I was one of the first to get sorted. Our mechanic, Jonathon, was there to ensure everyone's bike were set just as they wanted them. We all had mountain bikes with 21 gears. We were also provided with cross bar bags which velcroed onto the bike in order to store the important things, such as sun cream, camera, tissues and sweets!
As there were quite a few of us to get sorted we had plenty of time to lounge by the sea, unfortunately the wind was rather strong which made it a tad chilly but we braved it none the less!
After lunch we finally set off. We were all raring to go, after 2 days of waiting. We'd also been prepped that it was pretty easy day of cycling - only 50km (31m), tail wind and flat. I think this might have had something to do with the 3 crashes that occurred during the afternoon. PJ did a cartwheel over his handles bars not 2km down the road, Rachel then took a tumble, followed by James a little further on down the road. James came out of it pretty unscathed however the other two were sporting cracking bruises for the rest of the week.
We also had a couple of punctures, both on Mike's bike - I'd like to say they were the only 2, however he had a couple more the following day! Hence walking over the finish line on day 1!

Everyone completed the first day's cycling and as a reward we were welcomed with our first night of camping. The 'tent' was all set up for us and the mattresses laid out.

It was a pretty basic set up but our every need was catered for, even down to the cans of lager (they had to be paid for, but you can't have everything!) There was time for a swim/splash/paddle in the hot springs before the sun set and we finally settled down for dinner around 7pm. As mention every need was catered for and we had the most amazing food served, especially considering the surroundings. Soup to start and plenty of rice, potatoes, chicken or beef.
All in all the first day of cycling had gone very well and we were all raring to go for the second.

Day 2 - The Pyramids & transfer

After a very early wake up call, the first of many, we had a good breakfast before heading via coach to the Pyramids. I was a little bit surprised that they are so close to the city of Cairo, I think it makes them lose their magic somehow. Anyhow, we saw them up close and then saw them from afar so that I could join the millions who want a photo of them 'touching' the tip of a pyramid!!
We then headed down to see the Sphinx. Again, it was very impressive but the crowds let us all feeling a bit cold.

Once we'd done the tourist bit and had lunch, we set off on the 4 hour transfer to Ras Sudr. The coach journey wasn't too bad, plenty of time to chat and get to know one another and also to experience the awful driving of the Egyptians!! Talk about scary!
Once checked into the hotel, it was time for more food and a few more cheeky alcoholic beverages.
The hard work starts tomorrow....................

Well, we did it!!

Well, we did indeed do it! What an absolutely amazing week last week was. I am now back in full swing of work and already starting to fade into a distant memory but before it does I want to update this blog so that I can try to capture some of those memories. (I probably won't do it all in this post, so bear with me!)
Ok so - Day 1
I'd been a little bit teary on Friday night, I was so worried about saying goodbye to Graham so I was desperately trying to hold it together on the way to the airport but didn't quite manage it. We found the meeting point, 45 minutes early, but we weren't the only early birds. There were another 3 people there before me so not too many for me to cry in front of! Graham made a swift exit once the tears started again so that I didn't embarass either of us too much.
I was wonderful to meet Linda, who I have been speaking with for the past 6 months on Facebook. She was there in memory of her brother who passed away last year from heart failure - she is such a strong and brave lady and very quickly became my 2nd mother.
Once we'd all checked our bags in, it was up to shops and bar. Our flight was delayed by 2 hours so we had plenty of time to chat, have a cheeky alcoholic beverage and get to know each other a little bit.

5 hours later we landed in Cairo and lost a couple more hours due to the time difference and finally got to our 1st hotel at midnight where they had dinner prepared for us. I also had news from home that David 'The Haymaker' Haye had won his fight against the giant - happy days!!
It was then off to bed for a well needed, if short, sleep.

It's finally here!

I can't believe that after 15 months, it's finally here. We head off to Egypt tomorrow! Ahhhhhhh, not scared, nervous or anxious at all!
The last bit of exercise I did was a Spin class last Thursday evening, I simply haven't had the time over the past couple of weeks. I'm pretty confident though that if I take it steady and stop lots to take pictures that I should get through it.
However, after 15 months of being generally fit and healthy I have come down with a cold. I'm not happy! I'm currently taking echinachea, cough mixture, Halls menthol sweets and drinking lots of water in a vain attempt to clear it before tomorrow morning. I will be so angry if I can't go because of a cold.
The majority of my packing is now complete, just got to get my pedals and saddle off my bike and then we're away!
A massive thanks to everyone who has supported me throughout this past year, to all my friends and family (and strangers!) who have sponsored me and to Alex for coming our cycling with me since January (it would have been very difficult on my own). The sponsorship link is still open, so if you haven't already pledged then please do so.
Thanks again and I'll post with all the challenge hightlights, and I'm sure they'll be lowlights, and lots of photos. Here we go...............................

It's nearly time!

It's time to get excited as I've now only got 4 working days until we fly off to Egypt!
I truly can't get over the fact that over 12 months ago I went into work with the flyer for this challenge and announced that I'd be taking part.
I worked out today exactly how much training I've done this year:
1077 miles of cycling
57 exercise classes
Now to me, it doesn't sound like a huge amount, however I only joined the gym in February this year, so it averages as over 1 class a week and I did get my bike in October last year so there are a few more miles to add to that.
I'm pretty certain that I'll be able to manage the ride, although I have no doubt that it will be hard work and I'll want to give up at some point! But the people I'm going with appear to be a decent bunch and I'm sure we'll all push each other forward.
In the meantime, this weekend I'm in Cheltenham with my chorus, Amersham Acappella, at our annual competition so all of my attention and focus is on that this week, I can start thinking about Egypt again on Monday.
The sponsorship is still open, so feel free to head to the link below if you wish to contribute. Thanks xxxxxxxxxx

Probably should up my game............

But it's not easy. Ever since the training weekend at the end of September I've taken a bit of a backward step from what I should be doing. I could blame this on all the chorus rehearsals and concerts we've had recently (www.amershamacappella.com) or on the fact I've been desperately fighting a cold for well over a week now or on the suddenly cold weather we are now experiencing, but a small part of me just doesn't want to train anymore!!!
I was really hoping that at this point throughout this journey I would be enjoying the cycling, but I'm not totally convinced.
I did, however, go to the gym this morning and enjoyed my Body Combat class, which is something I haven't done in ages as I've been spinning or out cycling. So, I do think that I will continue with the exercise once I'm back from Egypt, just probably not on my bike!
Preparations are going well - I now have a rucksack, Egyptian pounds, pjamas (something which was really troubling me!) - in fact I think the only thing I now need is some clip on sunglasses to go over my normal specs - very sexy indeed!!!
So then - the plan for this week is.................spin on Thursday and Friday, plus 3 hours on Sat morning and as long as possible on Sunday. That'll be the last day I have to cycle probably before we go to Egypt as I'll be singing the weekend after in Cheltenham, so need to make it a long one. Just got to pray for sunshine!

Rain, rain - go away!!!

I hate cycling in the rain - official!
This morning Alex and I set off at half 9 whilst it was still dry and the BBC had promised me that it wasn't going to rain - turns out that the BBC weather people lie.
We had done about 15 miles of the planned 50 in the nice, dry weather before I commented 'it just can't decide if the sun should come out or if it should rain'. It then decided to rain. But it was that kind of rain that gets you absolutely soaked even though it's not raining that hard.
Also, I wear specs so it was like driving a car without windscreen wipers. Not pleasant.
We decided that instead of stopping for lunch we'd just get home via the quickest route possible. Saying that though, we still managed 38 miles so not too bad for a morning ride.
As we've only got 4 weeks now I can't be too choosy about the weather I cycle in, but I don't want to go in the rain again!!
Enough of that wingeing.
I think I now have everything I need for this challenge. I have a full toiletries bag, first aid kit and hopefully as many clothes as I'll need for a week.
Arriving at the airport now can't come quickly enough but I know the next few weeks will fly by and that we'll have a fantastic time, if sore legs and bum!!

5 weeks to go!

Not that I'm counting down or anything!!!
I decided this week that I really should cycle to work. It's a grand total of 3.5 mile round trip so I have no excuses. I did it on Thursday and Friday last week and intend to continue this theme for the next 5 weeks.
Alex and I went out this afternoon for a ride. We've become quite stuck in our ways and what routes we do so I thought I'd shake it up a little bit. We went more towards the Chilterns and that means more hills! We did a grand total of 26.5 miles in approx 2 hours, so not too shabby. I really has become cold recently though, could barely feel my toes when I got home.
This week I've taken Thursday afternoon off work so I can head to Milton Keynes, in the car, to get all my bits and bobs for the challenge. There's not too much I need, but things like a head torch, cap and lightweight tops/shorts are all required. I think that shopping trip will really bring home the fact that we'll be off to Egypt very, very soon!
I think this whole trip is only starting to become a reality now. Despite having read the itinery many times, today it really gave me goosebumps. Everyone has been telling me that I'm mad but I'm now starting to believe them!!
The sponsorship is still open so if you want to add to my total just head to the link below. Thanks xxx

Very excited now!

It's amazing how quickly your mood can change!!
I went along to the Sunday of the Big Heart training weekend slightly trepadaciously (is that a word, and have I spelt it correctly?!) for various reasons.
1. They'd all cycled together on the Saturday
2. They must have bonded
3. They'd resent me for not having done the 50 miles on the Saturday
4. I might not be fit enough to keep up
5. Etc, etc, etc
When I arrived everyone was getting their bikes sorted and just waiting to get off again, so I sorted myself out and tried to just 'hang out' near a group of riders and join in with their conversation. It seemed to work ok, everyone was very friendly and it wasn't too long before I felt part of the group.
The ride itself was very varied. Quite a few hills, up and down and plenty of the Cotswold countryside to view as we peddled along.
I feel so much more ready for this adventure now. Especially having spoken to a few people about what to take and what to expect. My fitness is ok too, although I really need to make sure I keep it up and up it as much as possible over the next 5 weeks.
I think I also need to get some drinking practice in between now and then, as I think it might be a heavy one!!!! Roll on Sinai!!

Better today!

After my little rant yesterday I'm feeling slightly better today (the bottle of wine we've just finished is probably helping!)
I went out this morning at 9 and came home around 1 having ridden 39 miles. There were a few nice inclines in there and a fair bit of flat. I think the fact that I finished at 1 shows that I could have had lunch and then gone out for more, which I'm guessing is what will happen in Egypt.
I have very few days between now and flying to fit much cycling in. I have signed up for this Sunday's training day, so that will be a def 40 miles and a good opportunity to find out everyone else's fears and expectations. After this weekend though I really will have to motivate myself to get out and go as far as possible.
Anyway, it's all good so not going to complain anymore!!

Enthusiasm - anywhere? anyone?

I've lost it! It's been a year since I signed up for this challenge and now that the money is in I'm just on a countdown to getting it done.
Part of me really wants to enjoy the training and getting my body as fit as it can be, but the other part just doesn't enjoy the cycling! I really thought I'd enjoy cycling by now, but it's not really happened.
I did a Spinning class on Friday evening, then did 18 miles yesterday and a very tiny 10 miles this morning. It's ridiculous really as the weather has been beautiful and I've had the time to do more, but I've also been on my own as my cycle partner, Alex, had her wisdom teeth out this weekend. Solo cycling really isn't fun.
I am off work tomorrow though and I plan to be out for at least 4 hours, but we'll see what excuses I can conjure up to cut it short.
I'm going to try to get along to the training day next Sunday. I could do with a ride of 40 miles with the actual people I'll be in Egypt with. It will be fantastic to meet everyone.
Onto brighter things - we have a wedding fayre to go to this afternoon so that'll get my spirits back up!! Only 31 weeks until I become Mrs Dell!!!

It's getting closer...........

Time is just flying by at the moment. 7 weeks to go!
There hasn't been much cycling going on at the moment. I've been away from home for the past 2 weekends so wasn't able to go out and I've only been able to get to 1 Spinning class in that time.
I have this coming weekend all to myself though so the plan is to Spin on Friday then do a 3-4 hour ride on Sat, Sun and Monday.
I had my injections this week - typhoid, hep A, dipheria, tetanus and polio. 3 injections in all. I have a phobia about needles so needed Graham to come along with me for morale support. All went ok, but my arms became really heavy throughout the day and then last night and this morning my temperature has been all over the place. Really hoping I'll be back to normal at some point soon.
I also received a letter from Action for Charity this morning confirming my place and requesting airport taxes!! It's all becoming very real now and a little bit scary, but everyone keeps telling me that it'll be fantastic experience and I'm sure that'll be the case.

8 weeks!

Only 8 weeks to go...................

I am now on a health kick. Sugar is a thing of the past and exercise is the way forward - if only I can get motivated. I guess it's no longer a case of that, I just need to get on with it!

In awe!

I am just so in awe of people's generousity! Tomorrow is the final day to get all sponsorship money in and I received my statement today saying that I've raised £2859!! That has shot up £200 in the last week! I really am very, very grateful especially during the current climate. I wasn't completely convinced that I'd make the target at the beginning of the year but everyone has managed to prove me wrong - and I'm glad.
Now, however, I really need to up my game with the training. The two Spinning classes a week are working well but the mileage at the weekend really needs to be stepped up a gear. As we have a 3 day weekend, my plan is to have done my spinning classes today and tomorrow, then a 20 mile ride on Sat before a 55 mile ride on Sunday, with Alex, and then another tootle on Monday morning. That will then be my 5 days continuous cycling! Think my knees are going to play up though, so just need to weary of them and not push myself too much.
Slightly concerned that I'm away next weekend from Thursday until Monday so won't be doing any cycling at all, but will just have to make up for it the following week.
Anyway, thanks once again for everyone's kindness and support to the fantastic charities and I'll keep you posted on the final amount.
Next thing to think about is the injections I need - can't wait!!!

Made it!!!!

This week I have banked the full £2500 minimum sponsorship target! That's the first part of the challenge achieved. I really didn't think I'd get there so a MASSIVE THANK YOU to everyone who has sponsored me. The final amount raised will be known on 28th August. That is the deadline, so if you haven't sponsored yet now is the time to do it!!!
On the training front, I'm on track with what has been suggested by Action for Charity. I'm doing a couple of exercise classes a week, including Spinning, and I've been out on the bike the past couple of weekends for relatively short rides. Generally happy with how it's all going.
The next couple of months are getting booked up so need to make sure I leave enough time free as the rides will have to be a lot longer than I've been doing so far.
We've only got 13 weeks until we go, so also starting to get other things together like my toiletries and medical kit! I've also got to get my jabs booked. It's all getting a bit real now. Can't believe I'm going to Egypt with about 40 strangers!

Latest.....

Quick update - since the 70 mile ride the other week I hadn't really been out on the bike much, nor have I done much else really!
I did a couple of 15 mile rides but really wasn't enjoying it. However, this Sunday was the rescheduled Tour de Vale. We did 34 miles in total yesterday and it wasn't too difficult. Set off at 9 and, a couple of punctures later (not me this time!), we finished at 12:15, averaged 12.7mph.
I've been having a look at where my fitness should be with only 3 1/2 months to go and I really need to get a shift on with it! But I think I've got the training bug back now - walked to work today and I've signed up for 4 exercise classes in the next 7 days!
On the money front - I've got banked £2,414 and I'm on a promise for the rest. Don't let that stop you from sponsoring though, if not already done. Anything raised now is going towards the fantastic charities listed below - thanks xxx

70 mile sportive - Done!

I was far too tired to update after the ride on Sunday! Dad and I set off from Aylesbury to Witney at 7am on Sunday morning to take part in Circuit of the Cotswolds. We had signed up to do the 'short' ride of 70 miles. I had decided a few months ago, in my infinite wisdom, that it would be good to put some rides in my diary which would test my fitness. As the Tour de Vale was postponed (now rescheduled for 12th July) this one came along without us having done too much practice!
Anyway, we turned up and were greeted by lots of racing cyclists. They were all in a completely different league to us. We decided that it was the getting around the course that mattered and not the time we did it in, although it didn't always feel like that, especially when we turned up at the 1st food stop to no food and as all the 'long' route riders were passing us after lunch!
We, somehow, kept each other going through all the pretty villages and up all the hills, of which there were many, and completed the ride in 7 hours and 2 minutes. I, personally, don't think that's too bad. I couldn't have got on my bike on Monday though, as my knees were too sore, so I now know that I need to practice riding on a daily basis. I did managed to walk the 3 mile round trip to work 3 days this week and I got back on my bike on Wednesday, so my recovery was quite quick.
Enough of that - on the sponsorship front, I have made my minimum target!! I am so pleased that I'm actually going to Egypt. I now have to think about getting all the bits I need together, it's just a shame I'm currently planning our wedding and need all the spare cash I can get. I'll just have to beg and borrow items for the ride, I can't imagine I'll be getting back on the bike after November so won't need to keep them!
So, thank you everyone that has supported me and the fantastic charities. Please sponsor me, at the link below, if you haven't yet - the more money raised, the better! THANKS xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Time for a quick update....

Was I gutted that the Tour de Vale was postponed on Sunday?! Not exactly!! When I woke up on Sunday morning all I could hear was the sound of the rain outside. As I was due to meet someone at the ride, I headed out in the rain to the meeting point only to be told that it was being postponed. So far we don't have another date. I did do a detour home of about 7 miles, but the rest of the day didn't go so well as the food and wine came out!
On the plus side, since Dad and I went out the other week I have done a 26 mile ride with Alex and a 38 mile round trip to Amersham for a chorus rehearsal. I've also been going to the gym classes.
I'm still not doing continuous days cycling, but there's still plenty of time for that. I'm just enjoying exercising at the moment and I'm hoping that being fit will help get me round the desert.
On the sponsorship front, I'm only about £125 away from the minimum required! I am very pleased and grateful, but don't let that stop you from sponsoring me, if you haven't already - every bit helps!
I'm out again this Friday with Alex and then the next BIG ride is the Cotwold 70 mile. Fingers crossed that the weather will be good and that we get round unscathed.
Thanks again xxx

Longest ride so far!

53 miles - Done!
I brought my bike up to North Wales this weekend so that Dad and I could go out for a ride. We've not long got back after a 53 mile round trip to the Ice Cream Factory! It was a relative flat ride as the purpose was mainly to get the miles in. We headed down to Chester before spotting Beeston Castle in the distance. Slowly it started to get closer and before too long we were cycling around the base.
After a lovely lunch and a Ferreo Rocher ice cream for me (Malteaser for Dad), we made our steady way home back up to Buckley (every way is up into Buckley, it just can't be avoided!)
So far I don't feel too done in, but I would imagine I will tomorrow, especially after the 3 hour drive home. I also don't think I could get on a bike again tomorrow, something we will have to do in Egypt so maybe a few rides in a row would be a good idea to practice.
All in all though, a very good day - even if I do have sun tan marks where my gloves have been!
This week I will be doing 3 exercise classes on Wednesday, walking and hopefully cycling again next weekend. It's all happening!
Oh, and I am so very close to my minimum sponsorship target. Less that £200 to go now. Please help me get there by heading to link at the bottom of the page. Thank you xxxxxxx

Another 36 miles done

That's it really - just wanted to let you know!!

Oh, and please sponsor me (head to the link at the bottom of the page) - THANKS xxx

Quick update

It's time to get serious - April was a wash out training wise. I went to Newquay, had my 30th birthday, went to Rome and got engaged!!! Training and raising money wasn't really on the agenda.
However reality is starting to hit. It is now May and the sponsorship money has to be in by the end of August. I still have £650 to raise, so need to get a shift on! The next couple of months I will have to start asking people directly to sponsor me which is something I have so far avoided. (I've very much relied on people going on line when they have time to and pledging what they can). Please head to the link below to help me get to my target! THANKS xxx
On the training front, I have signed up to do the 55 mile Tour de Vale on 7th June and the 70 mile Circuit of the Cotswolds on 21st June, so I have to get out on the bike. I've been walking a lot recently but that won't help me do the miles!
I'll be back at the gym this weekend and out with the CTC on Sunday, so more updates will follow.
Thanks again for supporting me and the fabulous charities xxxxxxxxxx

Another ride..

Another 24 miles done today. I went out on my own today as I had a day off work and the sun is shining. I headed over to Great Missenden which involves a rather large hil after only 5 miles of being on the bike. I made it though, but that was the only one I made as I had to walk up a couple today. Today was the first time that has happened and I blame it totally on not getting in the right gear in time.
Saying that I enjoyed the scenery and it was nice to have a break from the saddle.
I might be on the bike to work this week but I'll be in Rome this weekend so no long rides now for a week or so.
Don't forget to sponsor me if you haven't already! THANKS xxx

2 more rides - it's been a while!

I have finally got back on my bike again after about 3 weeks. My dad and I went out for a 'short' ride on Easter Monday. The weather was the best of the weekend, so we took advantage of it. It was a nice steady ride, averaging around 12 miles an hour and we did a total of 30 miles.
I am also now a proper cyclist! For my birthday I received some new cycling shoes and pedals. I am now attached to my bike when I'm riding! It's pretty scary and I have to remember to unclip myself when coming to a junction, but so far I've not fallen over (although apparently it's just a matter of time!)
This morning I went out for a ride with a fellow cyclist that I met through a website called cyclesocial.co.uk (a very friendly site with loads of people happy and willing to give advice when asked and encouagement where needed). I'd told him I wanted to do around 40 miles and he didn't disappoint. It was a fairly flat ride, with the odd incline, but my legs were knackered around the 30 mile mark. We didn't stop for the usual cup of tea so we did 43 miles without stopping. No real surprise that I could barely walk when I got home!!
I should be out again tomorrow, but that will have to depend on if I can get out of bed - fingers crossed I'll be ok, I need to get the miles back on.
Please don't forget to head to the link below if you want to sponsor me. All the charity information is below - all for a VERY good cause. THANKS xxxxxxxxxx

Sponsorship update & thank you x

I received my latest sponsorship update today. My total now stands at....................................................................£1729.63!!!!!
I am sooooo getting there!!

So, I want to use this post to say a HUGE thank you to everyone that has taken the time to log on here and donate on line and to everyone that has participated in whatever fundraising activity I have ran. I really, really appreciate it.

However, I still need to get to my target of £2500 by the end of August so I can't rest just yet. I have a plan to car boot all my clothes that are too big and also empty the flat of everything we no longer use or need. We even have a sweep stake in work about how heavy Nicky's baby will be when it's born!!

Most importantly I need everyone I know to pledge as much, or as little, as they can to help the fantastic charities this challenge is supporting. Head to the link below to donate. Thank you x

PS - I think I've found IT again! I did put on 3 pounds this week and I am nearly half a stone heavier than my lowest weight, but my mind is back. We are away this weekend but I'm determined to lose at least 1 pound - I even turned down chocolate cake tonight! We'll see how I get on, but feeling a lot more positive.

Well and truly lost it.

I'm struggling to keep up the enthusiasm. It's not so much the exercising, more the eating. I worked so hard last year to lose nearly 2 stone - I managed it mainly by giving up all refined sugar and sticking to Weight Watchers points, but recently I've retreated to the dark side!
I've only put on about 3 pounds from my lightest, but eating sugar completely sucks away any enthusiasm you have for life. I know it sounds dramatic, but it's true. I feel lethagic and bloated all the time and my resolve to stay off it has gone because it's such an addictive substance.
On top of this I'm going to Newquay this coming weekend and then it's my 30th over Easter so I'm already thinking what's the point in coming off it again as I'm not going to deprive myself the next couple of weekends!
So, the upshot is, I didn't go cycling today when I should have. I did, however, go to the gym and do the Combat class, and worked hard! I also went to Spinning on Friday and Attack on Thursday, but I'm not getting the miles in.
I need a plan - I'll get rid of the small amount of bad food left in the flat, the day's I'm not away or turning 30 I'll stick to 18 points and away from refined sugar. It's not a lot to do, but it's making that change again.
On the plus side, I now have less than £900 to raise. I expecting an updated total tomorrow, so will ensure I amend the total listed. Don't forget to sponsor me at the link below if you haven't already.
Any words of encouragement appreciated!!! Thanks x

Another long ride done

This Tuesday I had another day off work and went for a ride with Russell, a fellow cyclist from work. We met up half way between Aylesbury and Thame and head over to Christmas Common. It was a beautiful day, pretty perfect to be out cycling. Just a shame about the wind we were cycling into for a lot of the time. This really makes it difficult, but also made the beer taste sweeter when we stopped for lunch after 30 miles!
We didn't hit too many hills, just one really long incline. I managed to get up it without too much bother, just a case of keeping your head down and legs turning.
Speaking of legs, my knees didn't hurt! I bought myself a new pair of 3/4 length bottoms on Monday which are loose around my knee, and it worked - no knee pain! Think I'll be wearing those from now on, even in the not so warm weather.
Anyway, we did a total of 42 miles on Tuesday. It wasn't an easy ride, but that's good as I'm sure all 5 days in Egypt won't be easy so it's good to know I can just get the job done.
I'm still looking for as many people as possible to sponsor me. I should have an updated amount next week, but until then head to the link at the bottom of the page and don't forget to pick my name under the 'Additional Information' section.
THANK YOU xxxxx

I'm back!

After getting weighed last Wednesday, it was time to take action. So, I started sticking to my WW points again from Thursday and I got on my bike to work both Thursday and Friday. I also did a gym class on Thursday evening.
I've not long returned from my morning ride with the CTC group. Today we went to Tring Garden Centre, however it took us 20 miles to get there! It was a lovely ride though and I'll be doing that one again, probably with Alex at some point. It has been glorious sunshine this morning so the ride was really enjoyable. By the time I got home, I'd done a grand total of 33 miles.
I'm still having knee problems though. I've changed the position of my saddle and it's also been risen slightly. My handlebars have also been repositioned, so I'll see how I get on. Think I'll also try slightly looser trousers! The whole lyrca thing might be making my knee worse as the material is so tight around the knee cap. Dunno though, just a thought!
If you haven't already, don't forget to sponsor me. Thanks x

Not so great.......

Well, I've done no cycling what so ever since my 43 mile ride! My knee was really sore the days after that Sunday so I thought it was best not to put too much pressure on it.
Also, I travelled to Eindhoven in Holland last Wednesday evening to compete with my barbershop chorus, Amersham A cappella, in our European competition. We are now officially the 5th best chorus in Europe! Our website is www.amershamacappella.com if you wish to check us out. This half week long trip was the perfect excuse not to exercise, to sit down and to eat the whole time we were there and as a result I've gained a bit of weight. All ok now though, coz I've faced it and I'm moving on. Here's to a big loss next week.
The shipping agent, Alliance, we use in work rang me yesterday to let me know that they would be putting a cheque in the post for £250 to go towards my sponsorship! I was so happy. I now have less than £1k to go, suddenly seems a lot more achievable. I'll wait until I receive the cheque and I've had the update from Action for Charity before amending my total. In the meantime, get sponsoring at the link below if you haven't already done so! Cheers x
I'll be back on the bike tomorrow to work and also another ride with the CTC beckons on Sunday, so they'll be another update after the weekend.
For any other Big Hearters out there, I've been advised that antibacterial wipes are a must when packing our bags. Might be time to start stocking up!

120 miles in Feb and already 43 in March!

I got over the 100 mile mark for February! Not bad considering the weather we had. I wasn't sure if I would make it, but Alex and I went out again yesterday and managed 27 miles. Well done to Alex, who is a complete novice to cycling. We headed out of Aylesbury past Watermead, before turning up towards Aston Abotts. In my mind I didn't think there was much of a hill going that way, however it was corker and it hurt!! We then made our way through Wingrave, Mentmore and Cheddington before heading home.
Today, I went out with the local CTC group. It's the first time I've been out with them and was a bit apprehensive, but I really feel it's worthwhile going out with a group of experience cyclists. There were 6 of us in total, me being the only female. They kept at my pace and stopped to let me catch up after the really tough hills.
We rode 30 miles before stopping for a well earned cup of tea and sandwich in Chearsley, but not before I had my most disasterous moment cycling so far......
I had a puncture! Now, this normally wouldn't be too bad, however I am an unprepared cyclist with no knowledge of bikes, so I had no pump, no inner tubes and no tyre levers. Fortunately, one of the gents offered up an inner tube and everyone helped to get me back on my bike. I have now seen an inner tube being changed and also now realise why everyone I know has been on at me to learn how to fix a puncture! The last 10 miles home were relatively flat and went by quite quickly.
A big thank you to the guys for making me feel so welcome, and for fixing my bike. I promise I will be more prepared next time and replace the inner tube I borrowed!
I do have sore knees now however, which is slightly worrying, but I can't cycle next weekend as I'll be in Holland so plenty of time for my knees to recover.
So.....a grand total of 70 miles cycled this weekend. Feeling very chuffed!!!
I'm putting a lot of effort in to get fit, yet the sponsorship has gone a bit by the wayside. It's difficult at the moment, with the global crisis, but I do have a plan of action which involves various activities, such as a jumble sale, car boot, quiz night, etc but I do still need people to sponsor me. I currently need 120 people to sponsor £10 each and I'll be there! Just need to find those people. Please head to the link below, if you haven't already, and pledge what you can. Thanks xxxxxxxx

Two ride updates

Well, I have been busy!
Since joining the gym two weeks ago, I have now tried a variety of classes and have settled on Body Combat and Body Balance on a Monday. I've tried Body Jam on a Thursday but wasn't too keen so think I'll give Body Attack a go next week and that might become a regular! Loving the classes though, they're so full of energy and I think it's good to do something other than spin the legs, so to speak.
My friend Alex and I went out for a ride on Sunday 15th Feb. We wanted to get over the 20 mile mark so set off towards Tring Garden Centre just after lunch time. We made it there without too many problems and only one large hill. After a lovely cup of tea, headed round to Tring and up through the high street before heading back down, through the rain, and into Aylesbury. Total mileage - 23!!
I decided on Monday of this week to take a day off work today to go for a ride. I set off at half 9 and made my way through a few villages - Quainton, Gransborough, Cublington and Weedon - before finally getting home after 37 miles. This is the furthest I've been so far and as I only got home an hour ago, so far I'm feeling ok! We shall see what later brings.
There's also been a couple of rides to work, so all in all I'm quite active at the moment.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE head to the link below and sponsor me. Anything you can spare at the moment would be gratefully received. Thanks xxxxxxxxxx

A bit more about me.....

Despite cycling to work this week in the snow, not much else is going on so I thought I'd write a little bit about me for those that don't know me. (Word is getting out about my blog, so not everyone will know me personally!)
I'm going to be 30 this Easter. I'm a bit scared about it, but I tend to talk about my birthday for months before it happens so it doesn't come as a shock. I live with my boyf, Graham, in our lovely flat in Aylesbury. No kids, no wedding plans - before anyone asks!!
So the reason I'm doing this ride......................
For the past 11 years I've been trying to lose about a stone in weight. I've never been hugely overweight, but enough for me not to be totally comfortable with myself. I've alternated between Slimming World and Weight Watchers, but never really managed to lose a sizeable amount.
Last June (2008) I was sitting in our WW class and a lady who had joined just after Christmas had announced that in 6 months she'd lost 4st 12lbs in weight - I'd managed to lose a grand total of 2.5lbs in the same time! I was so ashamed.
Having read numerous 'diet' books, one thing that had registered with me was how bad refined sugar is for the body and how it is possible to give it up. I decided that what I had been doing before hadn't worked, so I might as well give this a go. I'm not one for 'faddy' diets, but this seemed possible.
It said in my book that it takes 3 weeks for the cravings to go, so I figured that if I could last 3 weeks then I'd crack it. I managed it and then managed a further 6 months of checking ever food label and staying away from biscuits and cakes.
In the space of 4 months, I'd managed to slim down from 10st 8.5 to 8st 12 - size 14/16 to size 8/10. I'd surpassed my wildest dreams of ever getting below 9st.
Anyway, after finally losing the weight I decided I needed a way of keeping the weight off. I sent away for the forms for a couple of rides and decided that The Big Heart Bike Ride was the one I wanted to do.
The charities this ride are supporting are fantastic and I do have a link with HEART UK. So I received the forms one Saturday and sent them off to ensure my place on the following Tuesday. Bit of a spur of the minute decision but I know it will be an amazing adventure and something everyone on the ride will never forget.
If you fancy joining us on the ride I think there are still places available or if you wish to sponsor me just following the link below.
My 'before and after' photos are at the top of this post!

Update....

Well, I didn't go out last Sunday morning. It wasn't exactly lashing it down, but it was raining a little bit, which was enough to put me off. As a result of this I went to the local gym and signed up. I've decided that if I can't get out on my bike then I can now head to the gym and cycle there or do some other form of exercise. Anything is better than just sitting watching tele! I have my induction next Wednesday so I'll have no excuses.

I'm waiting for an update on my sponsorship. I know I've had at least one more sponsor, but I'm not sure what my current total is. I'll update as soon as I know.

I won't be out on the bike this weekend as I'm away. Bit gutted really because my lovely boyfriend, Graham, bought me a new saddle last weekend and a pair of Altura leggings which I'm desperate to try out. I am starting to cycle to work from next week so at least I'll be able to try the saddle out on shorter rides before another long ride next Saturday.

Don't forget to sponsor me while you're here. The link is below. Thanks x

Saturday 24th Jan

We managed to get out again today, despite the freezing temperatures. Not sure how cold it was, but it managed to get through the 4 layers I had on! I haven't got any real cycling clothes yet, so it was a case of tights and leggings under my trousers!

Cycled a grand total of 18.5 miles in just over 1 and half hours, so quite pleased with that. The route we've been doing for the past couple of Saturdays is pretty hill free so it's been a pleasant way to ease us in to it.

The plan is to head out tomorrow morning on my own to tackle a couple of hills, but it will weather dependant. Don't fancy riding in the rain. I will update tomorrow if I do venture out.

So far this year.......

The past two Saturdays I've been heading out on my bike with Alex, a friend who is looking to exercise, I think primarily to lose weight, but also get fit. Last Saturday we did 10.5 miles in the freezing temperatures and this week we managed 16 miles. Next Saturday we're hoping to up it a bit further by heading over the Haddenham.
I've also been out the past two Sunday morning, on my own. I've done the same ride both Sundays, mainly to see if I can do it any quicker or if the bill hill in Halton is any easier the second time round - it was, incidentally! The Sunday ride is only 11.5 miles, but this morning I managed it in just under an hour. Pretty impressed with myself.
My thought is that if I continually do both Saturday and Sunday then I'll get used to doing more than one consecutive day.
I am enjoying the start of my training and if I can continue to up the milage then the plan is to get out with the local CTC group from March.
There's been no movement on the sponsorship front for a while, but I'm waiting for a few weeks for people to get over Christmas - unless people want to part with their money now, then I'm happy to take it!!
I'll also be posting the itinery for Egypt soon - it's quite daunting when you see it written down, but it's gonna be a fantastic adventure!

Quick update

I haven't posted for ages. The reason being - I haven't really done much!

Now Christmas is out of the way, hopefully the weather won't be too cold over winter and I might be able to get out and do a bit of training.

I am about £50 away from being half way there with the sponsorship, so that's gone really well. Again, now Christmas is over I can get started on that again and hopefully get the full amount required before Summer comes around.