I recall this mornings briefing saying "today's was fairly flat" - utter bollards ! I've never been on a cycle ride with so many climbs. I did say I wouldn't moan too much, but I struggled up a few of those pulls today.
Right back to the positives ! After all the planning and 'pre-match nerves', we finally set off from the iconic Lands End signpost (little did I know what awaited me ! - within 20 mins I was walking up my first hill).
Within 10 miles the group (predictably) had its first puncture when Floydy fell victim.
First stop - an aptly named establishment :-
Plan here was to have lunch, they weren't serving food so the team indulged in a local delicacy - the Cornish Pasty ;)
Our next stop was more fruitful. With Dai being Captain for the day (much debate here !) we predictably stopped at the local brewery - and in half we did now. We were presented with 2 crates of their finest ale - without us begging for it either !
There's already a definite divide in the group - there are 9 riders who thrive on high mileage and inclines and then there's me ! Today I confirmed my suspicisions that my bike is a special and unique one - it only travels horizontal and downwards - there is not 'uphill' option on it !!!!
There was some reward though, having got to our digs for the evening I was introduced to my bed - a massive 4-poster king size bed !! My roomie for the night, JP, got the shortest of straws ;) #snoozeyoulose
He seemed to sleep ok though - as within 10mins of his head hitting the pillow, it was like I was in a seal sanctuary - horrendous snoring ! That was coupled with the squawking of local seagulls and a dodgy toilet flushing system - no wifi either ! Highs and lows ;)
A lot of time to both reflect on the first days effort and contemplate on the task ahead for our jaunt to Moretonhampstead.
We're getting a shed load of support from people back home, social media is full of messages of encouragement and this is definitely helping keep our spirits high.
It's only day 1 - the challenge is very real now, get tomorrow out of the way and ill be a lot happier!
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