How are we doing?

Roger is off his knee for at least 2 weeks, until the doctor can work out how much damage there is, as this would leave only 6 weeks preparation. That's right only 8 weeks left. James is getting as much riding in as his hectic life will allow. Paul is still talking about buying a new bike for the trip, whilst planning to move back south of the border to Sheffield to take up a new job, and decorate the flat for sale, and train! Me I'm squeezing in some riding in-between ballet competitions and dance festivals (the children not me), I bought a heart rate monitor last week and my family has taken great delight in discovering what tickling me does to my heart rate and I’ve worked out that pressing the start button at the beginning of the ride might actually give you some information to work with.

Anybody reading this blog might start to think the gadgets; gps, hrm, disc brakes, turbo trainers and so on were more important than the ride, of course that would be all wrong. The truth is much more spiritual, its about triumph over adversity, bonding through a shared experience, the pure joy you feel on a perfect descent, the satisfaction of summiting after so many false horizons. Spending a week away from the stresses and strains of ordinary life and to enjoy the beauty of some of the country's most inspiring scenery. All of these things are what it's about, spending an hour staring at the wall sat on the turbo trainer on a cold, wet March evening, is only worth doing for the pay off. Crossing the country from coast to coast, sea to sea, that's going to be pretty special for anyone left by May!

Even if they are in their 40s.