Killer ride today!

What a ride today! Very enjoyable but very challenging once I got to Netherton. You'll see from the terrain that there is a killer hill on the way out of Netherton on the road to Alwinton. I had to coerce my way to the top by talking to myself. "Nearly to the top ..... well almost ..... a little further ..... keep going!" BUT when I did get to the top (well, before the next hill), the head wind was unbelievable! It was such hard going from then on to Alwinton due the head wind. Even going down hill I had to pedal!!!!

I am pleased with the result though. Despite the hills, an average of nearly 10 miles an hour is ok by my standards. When I got to the end of the ride, I wasn't especially tired and I really do feel that training is paying off ..... Thanks Chris at the gym for my training plan!

Next time -28 mile circular route from Clennell Hall

Now I mean business ....

Today is the start of a new training regime ..... realising that I am becoming fitter and thoroughly enjoying more settled weather, I simply want to cycle more. Weekend cycling is not enough now.

I only had an hour and a half today so I went on a known circular route just over 15 miles .... not too hilly but the wind surely had an impact on my speed. Today I averaged just over 12 mph which is the sort of speed I had envisaged.

Here's the plan ...... ride for an hour every morning at 6am. I am inspired by a work colleague who gets up at 5am and runs before work every day. I shall try it for a week and see how I get on.

Will keep you all posted!

Clennell Circular route 17.2 miles

Serious training is now in motion thanks to the great weather today! Still cold, cloudy with spots of rain but hardly any wind. The Northumberland Hills are certainly a challenge ..... Sharperton bank was so steep that I stood on the pedals and went nowhere! I had no alternative but to walk up the hill. I'll do this ride again and see if I can improve on the time and indeed make it up Sharperton Hill.




My husband met up with me on route along with the puppies! I think they are more concerned about the cows in the field ...

My next official event is a three day cycle ride in May with friends from Melrose to Whitley bay along the Coast and Castle cycle route.

Then the Northern Rock Cyclone Challenge in June and then my long ride in July. f you wish to donate to my chosen charity, you can do this by visiting my donation page: http://www.justgiving.com\stephaniecharitycycleevent

Sometimes I think I am mad but then I really enjoy cycling, the fresh air and certainly the challenge!