10 Days and Counting

I had a lovely ride this morning, 60 miles out to Aboyne and back in the sunshine. I spent a lot of time thinking about what to pack and how many pairs of flip-flops to take, I never have been any good at travelling light, but I will have to make a big effort this time.

I have also decided to name my bike for the purpose of this blog..henceforth she will be known as Ruby (she is a Specialized Ruby Elite...simples!).  Ruby was feeling smooth as silk this morning after her service and I think enjoyed the ride as much as me.  We stopped for a snack and watched some horses and ducks beside a fishing loch...one of the great things about cycling is being able to stop wherever you want. 

Horses with Clachnaben in the background

3 Weeks to go!!

So...my attempts at blogging have so far been fairly poor!  One post in January and now this one in July, with only 3 weeks to go! 

Over the past 6 months I have battled with a trapped nerve in my shoulder and absolutely shit weather which would have even hindered the training of Bradley Wiggins (still in Yellow in the TDF as I blog).  However, I have managed to achieve a big ambition and cycled La Marmotte last Saturday, 7th July.

http://www.bikes-oisans.com/IMG/profil_Marmotte.gif (the course profile!)



Finishing La Marmotte



I did this in 11 hours an 17 minutes which I was delighted with, and almost managed to enjoy the 8 miles of hell that is the 21 hairpins of Alpe D'Huez at the end.

I am back in Aberdeen now and starting to really think about LEJoG. I have a train ticket to Penzance (direct) for me and my bike, a rucksack to fill with as few clothes as possible and the excitement of my upcoming adventure.

I also am now doing this cycle for charity as my good friend Lynda and her children Alex and Beth have had the support of CLAN Cancer Support while her husband David battles cancer.  As of today I have raised £915 and hopefully this will increase as my journey progresses.