:o Pretty brutal?? Mal you must think like an organiser!! I think Extreme might be a valid descriptor - how many AAA points is it??
t'cog would t'bastard.
Ouch.
But would be easier than the maniac and still earn a fixed wheel challenge badge for a single ride. ;D
That looks like a great route. It's going to be a toughie, though; I'd say that day 3 isDay 3 is the obvious bit, but I suspect day 2 will be tough too. Doesn't have the headline climbs of day 3 but lots of ups and downs round the coast. I'll see this weekend...going to feelpretty brutal.
I think that the organiser of the New Forest 1000 in 2004 was surprised by how people struggled on what I would think is a far more benign route than the one you propose. He'd ridden each day's route separately...good to see that you're going to do it all in one go :)That caught me out on the Offa's Dyke. Mind you that was hard enough done in small bits. I put that down to a) the first time was in winter b) the second time was on a loaded tandem.
Is it coggable ;D
Quickly shoved into bikehike.co.uk - Course Creator (http://www.bikehike.co.uk/mapview.php?id=9188) with not much care as to which roads it goes along it comes about right (988km).
But would be easier than the maniac and still earn a fixed wheel challenge badge for a single ride. ;D
:) Indeed, along with a Super Fixed Wheel Award (more than 12 AAA points rather than an SR). I was happy with 14.25 FWC points for the Bryan Chapman but 25 FWC in one ride is bonkers.
You'd have to wait for the calendar ride for that though as there are no AAA points on a DIY recce of a ride.
You now need 20 of these new-fangled AAA points as specified in the Handbook.
I am looking for an objective for 2010. I might just have found it.
Is there going to be a BR and BRM version?
The UK could do with a BRM 1000 to help those of us with an interest in such things achieve their BRM5000 award.
Although, if truth be told, I'd prefer it were an "easier" ride. Are there any other 1000s scheduled for next year in Blighty?
Possibly; I'll check with herself tonight...
Is it coggable ;D
Yeahbut - you're an insane whippet. Get a Longflap with 25kg and tie one leg behind yer back, then we might come out even ;DIs it coggable ;DI reckon so.
...some of the Elan Valley, not sure what goes on there.Emminently coggable, but I always seem to have a mental block & 2' the hairpins leading up to the Mountain Road :-\
Is there going to be a BR and BRM version?
The A483 from Aberystwyth to St Davids is probably best done in the small hours. It gets a bit busy on that road.It'll be late on day 2 when we get there. St Davids-Cardigan is OK, but gets busy between Cardigan and Aberystwyth.
I'm not sure that I can do the 17th July onwards, but I'll see how much oliday have from work and about a few other odds and sods. It looks very tempting as a fun 4 day warm up for the Mersey 24.It'll have to be July for me. I'll be in India cycling over the Himalaya in August. But if you want to ride then that's fine.
Otherwise, how about a 3 day ride over the August Bank Holiday?
I was going to go to Mildenhall Rally, but this looks like more fun.
Is there going to be a BR and BRM version?
BRM, with a fall-back option of BR if anyone needs the extra time allowance (about 1.5hrs as it's just under 1020k).
I may be wrong, but don't BRM events not allow for the extra 20km? Vague memory of that from qualifying for PBP.
Did you not go & play on the "Monks Trod" then?
I may be wrong, but don't BRM events not allow for the extra 20km? Vague memory of that from qualifying for PBP.
Yes, BRM doesn't give you any extra time for extra distance, but BR does.
So the Bryan Chapman at 619km is a flat 40 hours for BRM, but could be as much as 43h17m if BR with extra time for overdistance and a 14.3kph min speed (this year it was run as a BR with a 15kph min speed giving 41h16 for the 2004 route).
I seem to remember there being a 10% overdistance limit on BRM. So you could, theoretically, have a 660km 40 hour BRM 600, or a 75 hour 1100km BRM 1000. Ouchee.
The Barmouth Bridge in the dark & wind & rain is not a pleasant experience. Think I might need to play around with the start time to make this bit in daylight.
Have you got a routesheet for this ride yet?
Pete's Eats was packed. Not great for a quick control at that time of day. Needed the food though so wasn't complaining too much.
I'm thinking of doing this at Christmas, along with El Supremos 1000.
[CENSORED]
[CENSORED]
*sticks fingers in ears*
La la la! I can't hear you...La la la!
Yikes. Always a slightly scary moment when your event gets published and you realise people might actually want to ride it.
I'm off to India right now, to ride this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway) (Anyone fancy a Raid Himalaya?). More details will be available when I get back.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway)
I'm off to India right now, to ride this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway) (Anyone fancy a Raid Himalaya?). More details will be available when I get back.
The plan AFAIK is to use the Aber rowing club facilities (all my fault - I'm the club chairman). There's a big shed for PBP stylee sleeping on camping mats etc, showers, changing rooms, and a bar. Fine detail is still to be worked out, but should be everything needed for a ride of this length.
AC
http://www.aukweb.net/cal/calsolo.php?Ride=10-4&St=5 (http://www.aukweb.net/cal/calsolo.php?Ride=10-4&St=5)Thanks. I did look at the AUK Calendar first, honest. Either I missed it somehow, or it's only just gone up - ?
I'm off to India right now, to ride this http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh-Manali_Highway) (Anyone fancy a Raid Himalaya?). More details will be available when I get back.
I've been over that road in a jeep, would like to ride it one day. Great memories of Leh. Enjoy the tsampa porridge and amdo bread with honey!
Thanks. I did look at the AUK Calendar first, honest. Either I missed it somehow, or it's only just gone up - ?
Thanks. I did look at the AUK Calendar first, honest. Either I missed it somehow, or it's only just gone up - ?
It went up yesterday.
The forecast is for heavy rain. :demon:
By the time of the event it will have changed to extremely heavy rain and gales with flash flooding.
I have the entry form in one hand, a pen in the other and the route overview on my desktop. Do I really want to see that much of Wales? ::-)
I have the entry form in one hand, a pen in the other and the route overview on my desktop. Do I really want to see that much of Wales? ::-)
Didn't we sit in the sunshine after 500k of John's Welsh Hillstm agreeing that we couldn't possibly manage another 500k of the same?
That's right, I'll be entering too. ::-)
Really looking forward to this one.
H
I can feel the wind on my face already ::-)
And then there were 11. Frere Yacker, Hummers, JayP, you're all in.
I spent the weekend checking out the mid Wales section of the ride. Simply awesome. To give you a little teaser...
Ystwyth Valley. Here be cybermen...
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_SP36X1tt6tU/SuYaO0KCsnI/AAAAAAAABKM/YGdYwjbTE6U/s800/IMG_1682.JPG)
Elan Valley
(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_SP36X1tt6tU/Suc6Aj_-64I/AAAAAAAABOE/UvgXVcbok5Y/s800/ElanValley.jpg)
Llyn BrianneI
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_SP36X1tt6tU/Suc6bfH0C9I/AAAAAAAABOI/_DuvFDtXcSQ/s800/LlynBrianne.jpg)
Think I might take my bathers ;D
got my entry haven't you John? thought i'd posted it a bit ago but just thought i'd check.
the pics look amazing. Really looking forward to it :thumbsup:
John,
Am I right in thinking that there will be a porter to convey a bag to Aberystwith where we can enjoy two sleep stops, then back to the finish control ? What else is included for the entry fee ? Any food at all ? Will one be able to sleep in the start control beforehand/camp outside ?
thanks
M
Is this a one off or do you intend to run this every year, every 2 years (non-LEL or PBP year), every pre-PBP year, or are you waiting to see how it goes first time?
"Dunno" is a perfectly acceptable answer. :)
Handsome!! Thats the way to do it. :thumbsup:
You get, for your 60 British pounds...
Choice of village hall accommodation or camping on Thursday night.
Pre-ride feed on Thursday night.
Breakfast on Friday morning
Bag drop to Aberystwyth (and back)
3 visits to Aberystwyth at 310k, 605k and 885k. The Aberystwyth control is at the Boat Club and features:
Sleeping facilities in the boat shed. Camp beds & blankets will be available. Suggest you bring your own sleeping bag as well. (You can of course make your own arrangements for B&B or nearby campsite if you prefer)
Showers & changing facilities
A bar :)
All food at Aber (3 dinners + breakfasts) is included.
Food at the finish.
75 hours (76.5 on AUK allowances) and 1020km of Wales' finest.
Weather (there'll be lots, that's guaranteed)
And probably a whole load of other stuff I haven't got round to organising yet.
Where does it actually start?
Apologies if I have missed that. And I take it the start is also the finish again with 3 visits to Aber..... in between ?
I am trying to get this in my head so I can figure out how to break the news to Mrs G. ;D
Where does it actually start?
yep; same place as the Irish Mail;
fantastic finish with the Wrekin as a backdrop if you are not hilled -out by then.
Like the logo; are you going to get a medal done?
The Pub in the village is recommended too.
The Pub in the village is recommended too.
Ooh dear.
H
The Pub in the village is recommended too.
Ooh dear.
H
And there is a bar at the Aberystwyth control.
The Pub in the village is recommended too.
Ooh dear.
H
Breakfast after the Irish Mail:
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2107/3626791038_34f2a9cdb2.jpg)
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2107/3626791038_34f2a9cdb2.jpg)
:P
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2107/3626791038_34f2a9cdb2.jpg)
The protein/carbohydrate ratio may not be at it's optimum as a recovery meal I suspect ;D
You know what I like.
:P
H
Warning - offensive sound!
Warning - offensive sound!
*cackle*
You know what I like.
:P
H
This (http://www.deagostini.com.au/ilovehorses/) ?
You know what I like.
:P
H
This (http://www.deagostini.com.au/ilovehorses/) ?
None of that has ever been Proven.
H
Good news: a friend of mine is getting married on the 24th July, so I'm not riding. :)
Oh well - have now used the website and PayPal - seems OK, although the "Return to Merchant" button doesn't seem to work. Could be my browser?
How we doing for entrants? Seems to be fairly racing along. Was hoping to enter in Jan once I've done a few more rides in the winter.....
Toby, good luck 2moro on the Gloom its blowing more than 40 at the mo + still raining - roads flooded round Swansea way....
That's it, in now!!! No more excuses..... ::-)Welcome to the show.
How we doing for entrants? Seems to be fairly racing along. Was hoping to enter in Jan once I've done a few more rides in the winter.....
I was guessing the start is at The Corbet Arms in Upton Magna?Just down the road in the Village Hall.
I showed interest but I am still investigating the financial consequences. How much are nights at the hotel at the start?Free camp bed accommodation in the hall (bring a sleeping bag), or camping outside. For more luxury the cheapest option is likely to be the Travelodge www.travelodge.co.uk (http://www.travelodge.co.uk) at Shrewsbury Battlefield (about 4 miles) away. Look out for cheap deals and you can get rooms for as little as £9. Plenty of accommodation around. See www.visitshrewsbury.com (http://www.visitshrewsbury.com) for options.
I was thinking of a ferry, but the Eurostar is waaay cheaper, and I should be able to get from Enschede, NL to Shrewsbury in a day. Now only what do the Eurostar people think of a 2m long recumbent... I guess I have to make some calls for that.Yes, don't think anyone charges any more. But you may well have problems getting your bike on the train. Very few train companies will take tandems and your recumbent will be about the same length as our tandem. Virgin Trains will get you from London Euston to Wolverhampton - their trains have reasonable space and take tandems AIUI so you should be OK (Virgin INSIST on reservations - you won't get on the train without one). Local train to Shrewsbury definitely won't have space so you'll have to get the last 20 miles or so on your own.
Bikes in UK trains are free as long as you make a reservation, from what I understood, is that correct?
Getting from St Pancras International to Euston to get the Virgin services is only a few hundred metres, you could easily walk it. Unless you are wearing cleats. ;)
Getting from St Pancras International to Euston to get the Virgin services is only a few hundred metres, you could easily walk it. Unless you are wearing cleats. ;)
I have seen that. What makes you think I'd walk when I have a bike with me?
I showed interest but I am still investigating the financial consequences. How much are nights at the hotel at the start?Free camp bed accommodation in the hall (bring a sleeping bag), or camping outside. For more luxury the cheapest option is likely to be the Travelodge www.travelodge.co.uk (http://www.travelodge.co.uk) at Shrewsbury Battlefield (about 4 miles) away. Look out for cheap deals and you can get rooms for as little as £9. Plenty of accommodation around. See www.visitshrewsbury.com (http://www.visitshrewsbury.com) for options.
I was thinking of a ferry, but the Eurostar is waaay cheaper, and I should be able to get from Enschede, NL to Shrewsbury in a day. Now only what do the Eurostar people think of a 2m long recumbent... I guess I have to make some calls for that.Yes, don't think anyone charges any more. But you may well have problems getting your bike on the train. Very few train companies will take tandems and your recumbent will be about the same length as our tandem. Virgin Trains will get you from London Euston to Wolverhampton - their trains have reasonable space and take tandems AIUI so you should be OK (Virgin INSIST on reservations - you won't get on the train without one). Local train to Shrewsbury definitely won't have space so you'll have to get the last 20 miles or so on your own.
Bikes in UK trains are free as long as you make a reservation, from what I understood, is that correct?
Or you can try plugging on here for a lift. Plenty of the above from the South East of the country...
Oh, and I need to sign up with paypal.
Oh, and I need to sign up with paypal.
No need. You can pay by credit or debit card using the website now.
Todo this month: call Eurostar. Oh, and I need to sign up with paypal.
Going fast with the sudden rush of interest now that online is available. The list so far...
...
I was going to take some flyers to plug at the AGM. Might not be worth bothering the way things are going.
Ah yes, the Ebaying whilst pissed scenario..
And you may ask yourself
Where does that highway go?
but is there going to be a jersey :D
And you may ask yourself
Where does that highway go?
In the case of this ride, the answer to this question appears to be "Aberystwyth"
but is there going to be a jersey :D
but is there going to be a jersey :D
I'll do you an official photo for a fiver.
but is there going to be a jersey :D
I'll do you an official photo for a fiver.
you know how to cut deep :(
by the way drink (http://www.stillcoke.co.uk/)?
Grub - have you told Mrs Grub yet. If its any help Mrs K's birthday is 26th July and she seems cool with it (with 8 months to go)
but is there going to be a jersey :D
I'll do you an official photo for a fiver.
you know how to cut deep :(
by the way drink (http://www.stillcoke.co.uk/)?
ok, as it's you I'll take it for nothing :)
nice idea, but they need to change tack and call it 'Coke Flat'. Surefire winner.
but is there going to be a jersey :D
I'll do you an official photo for a fiver.
you know how to cut deep :(
by the way drink (http://www.stillcoke.co.uk/)?
ok, as it's you I'll take it for nothing :)
nice idea, but they need to change tack and call it 'Coke Flat'. Surefire winner.
I heard it's not economically viable as a product once you factor in the expense of de-carbonating it from it's original form.
Grub - have you told Mrs Grub yet. If its any help Mrs K's birthday is 26th July and she seems cool with it (with 8 months to go)
Yep, I broke the news during a party with friends. I made sure she had had a few drinks and have not mentioned it since. I have witnesses to the disclosure too, so when she claims no knowledge I am covered. ;D ;D
Grub - have you told Mrs Grub yet. If its any help Mrs K's birthday is 26th July and she seems cool with it (with 8 months to go)
Yep, I broke the news during a party with friends. I made sure she had had a few drinks and have not mentioned it since. I have witnesses to the disclosure too, so when she claims no knowledge I am covered. ;D ;D
Damn. Witnesses. I knew I'd forgotten something. It all seemed so easy .........
And you may ask yourself
Where does that highway go?
In the case of this ride, the answer to this question appears to be "Aberystwyth"
"A nostalgic yearning which is in itself more pleasant than the thing being yearned for"
This on-line entry business is dangerous.
This on-line entry business is dangerous.
Certainly is. And then there were 43...
Certainly is. And then there were 43...
Can anyone recommend any other rides that would be useful in the build up to the main event?
Has our Scottish 1300 filled up yet Chris?
Today I also entered the Snowdon & Coast, also organised by John Hamilton and advertised as "a taster" for the Mille Cymru.
Can anyone recommend any other rides that would be useful in the build up to the main event?
Has our Scottish 1300 filled up yet Chris?
Plenty of room left - Grub hasn't entered yet. :(
The Irish Mail isn't on next year.
I was looking at the Bryan Chapman. There are two options, does anyone know the reason for this , and which one would be the best to choose, considering that the goal is preperation for Mille Cymru.
The Irish Mail isn't on next year.
I was looking at the Bryan Chapman. There are two options, does anyone know the reason for this , and which one would be the best to choose, considering that the goal is preperation for Mille Cymru.
The Elenith was a considered option, but the Castleton Classic runs the day after and starts about 5 miles away from my front door. I 'spose I could consider doing both, or is that just plain stupid?
I suspect I may avoid doing many Welsh rides in 2010, to avoid the sense of doing the same roads again. And again. For me, it's important to get the right balance between building up to the MC1K and keeping motivated until late summer.I'm thinking very much the same. But I may well ride the 2010 BC400:
Doing two hard rides back-to-back, not much sleep between - sounds perfect prep to me!
I was looking at the Bryan Chapman. There are two options, does anyone know the reason for this , and which one would be the best to choose, considering that the goal is preperation for Mille Cymru.
The Elenith was a considered option, but the Castleton Classic runs the day after and starts about 5 miles away from my front door. I 'spose I could consider doing both, or is that just plain stupid?
The Irish Mail isn't on next year.
I was looking at the Bryan Chapman. There are two options, does anyone know the reason for this , and which one would be the best to choose, considering that the goal is preperation for Mille Cymru.
The Elenith was a considered option, but the Castleton Classic runs the day after and starts about 5 miles away from my front door. I 'spose I could consider doing both, or is that just plain stupid?
Thanks everyone for the great advice. Plenty for me to consider.
Matt H - Please excuse my ignorance of missing your link to the Irish Mail Perm.
Right now I think I'll plan for;
The Elenith and Castleton Classic (300k Saturday and 200k Sunday), as this has an option of downgrading the Sunday as two shorter rides (160k or 100k) also start at the same point that day.
The Bryan Chapman, still to decide which one.
The Snowdon & Coast. This is a 400km ride, but it starts about 60km from my house so I could turn it into a 500k+.
Off out now to get some miles in.
We should be more like the French. The effort required to enter should be more commensurate with the effort required for the event itself. In this case there should have at least been an entry form, preferably in Welsh. An AUK Welsh correspondent could then have been appointed. Qualifiers would not necessarily be required, but they could have been replaced by the entrant having to prove close-harmony singing capabilities, and/or an ability to pronounce Ynys Mon railway station names.
As a result of the panic induced by the recent acceleration shown in this thread and a wife who, frankly, wasn't doing her job properly, I'm now in.
I do think this was far too easy to enter. Thank goodness for the 14-day cooling-off period. There is a 14-day cooling off period, isn't there?
We should be more like the French. The effort required to enter should be more commensurate with the effort required for the event itself. In this case there should have at least been an entry form, preferably in Welsh. An AUK Welsh correspondent could then have been appointed. Qualifiers would not necessarily be required, but they could have been replaced by the entrant having to prove close-harmony singing capabilities, and/or an ability to pronounce Ynys Mon railway station names.
A word to the unwary. If you go back to page 1 of this thread there is some discussion of the relative hardness of some of the days. The Snowdon day doesn't warrant a mention.
I was going to do that one year. The Elenith and the Castleton Classic, that is.
I rode The Elenith, got home, showered, ate, went to bed, slept well, got up at 6, and thought "sod it".
We should be more like the French. The effort required to enter should be more commensurate with the effort required for the event itself. In this case there should have at least been an entry form, preferably in Welsh. An AUK Welsh correspondent could then have been appointed. Qualifiers would not necessarily be required, but they could have been replaced by the entrant having to prove close-harmony singing capabilities, and/or an ability to pronounce Ynys Mon railway station names.
As a result of the panic induced by the recent acceleration shown in this thread
As a result of the panic induced by the recent acceleration shown in this thread
As a result of the panic induced by this thread, the event is NOW FULL. I have 62 entries so that's it. If you haven't entered by now you're too late. The website will be updated asap.
Now to get round to organising, as it appears that actually, there are quite a lot of people wanting to ride this...
As a result of the panic induced by this thread, the event is NOW FULL. I have 62 entries so that's it. If you haven't entered by now you're too late. The website will be updated asap.
Now to get round to organising, as it appears that actually, there are quite a lot of people wanting to ride this...
... the event is NOW FULL.
I wonder what percentage of riders of this kind of distance don't take either the yahoo list or YACF? Everyone that I know does (although it could easily be proven to be a logical fallacy to assume that this is the norm).I think you know the answer to this... ;)
Also, it's 9 months away: everyone in AUK has enough time to put on something similar themselves (heck, I'm running my own 400k qualifier so I don't miss out ... )
I hope the more ambitious organisers among you are taking notes here.+fear of missing out
Great route + legible website + paypal
= flood of entries.
This just goes to show the appetite for epic rides is untapped.
LEL sells out years in advance
Mille Cymru sells out in days
I hope the more ambitious organisers among you are taking notes here.
Great route + legible website + paypal = flood of entries.
I hope the more ambitious organisers among you are taking notes here.+fear
Great route + legible website + paypalof missing out= flood of entries.
So, who's making it a proper challenge by doing it on fixed?
I would have had I been able to enter it. I'm assuming ChrisN would have too if he'd been able to enter it. But then it's fantastically easy to say that when you don't have to actually do it. :)
So, who's making it a proper challenge by doing it on fixed?
The ideaof a thousand ongears has little appeal
I'll be riding gears for most of my audaxes next year.
There's always some loon though (see Crackpot 1000 attempt on fixed for example).
So, who's making it a proper challenge by doing it on fixed?
I would have had I been able to enter it. I'm assuming ChrisN would have too if he'd been able to enter it. But then it's fantastically easy to say that when you don't have to actually do it. :)
(I do need to put my money where my mouth is on a similar statement as I was heard saying I'd to the MSG 300 on fixed if I ever did it again. Sadly it may not be running as a calendar event again but there's nothing stopping me doing the Perm version if I ever got a chance. 63" would work, I can't descend towards Edale any slower than I did even with a freewheel.)
Talking of worrying, perhaps I should forget I have entered this for a few months and leave the fretting until July.
is the MSG not on then at all this year or is it just yet to be put up?
:sick:
I'm not going near that one again until the Spring. Other riders should be able to experience the "joys" of that one in September, as it's been added to the AUK calendar event (19/9 grimping fans). I've tweaked the route, to include an extra stop for tea. That this means even more climbing is by the by....
Talking of worrying, perhaps I should forget I have entered this for a few months and leave the fretting until July.
:sick:
I'm not going near that one again until the Spring. Other riders should be able to experience the "joys" of that one in September, as it's been added to the AUK calendar event (19/9 grimping fans). I've tweaked the route, to include an extra stop for tea. That this means even more climbing is by the by....
No AAA's?
A Great Ride has to be a bit of a Challenge for me. I don't fear the Lowlands 1200, so that ride is not nearly as tempting as the Mille Cymru.
So, who's making it a proper challenge by doing it on fixed?
I would think so
The idea of a thousand on gears has little appeal
This just goes to show the appetite for epic rides is untapped.
LEL sells out years in advance
Mille Cymru sells out in days
Is that so?
In that case. Anyone else want to join Pete T, Mike K and I on El Supremos 1000k permanent, starting from Strensham (or Tewkesbury if it's OK with El) on 27/12/09.
Don't all rush at once now.
There's always some loon though (see Crackpot 1000 attempt on fixed for example).
Every attempt at the Crackpot on fixed has been successfull. Which is more than can be said for those crazy fools with their multiple gears. :P
jwo (on fixed) + 37 riders on 27-speed = 1000So, who's making it a proper challenge by doing it on fixed?
I would think so
The idea of a thousand on gears has little appeal
That's one cog to ride them all then.
So, who's making it a proper challenge by doing it on fixed?
I would think so
The idea of a thousand on gears has little appeal
That's one cog to ride them all then.
So, who's making it a proper challenge by doing it on fixed?
I would have had I been able to enter it. I'm assuming ChrisN would have too if he'd been able to enter it. But then it's fantastically easy to say that when you don't have to actually do it. :)
A limited number of reserve entries will be available next spring.
I take it you're on the list, GB?
Bah. I meant the loon that attempted the Maniac Grimpeur on fixed of course...Yeerrrrz - and what exactly is wrong with the Ramblers? ;)
Bah. I meant the loon that attempted the Maniac Grimpeur on fixed of course...Yeerrrrz - and what exactly is wrong with the Ramblers? ;)
No, I urge people to join me on this ride:
www.thecrackpot1000.ru/riders/wives/index.html (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=25403.0)
If they want an ideal training ride for the Mille Cymriu.
H
Having failed to get up a couple of the roads on the Maniac 1000 on a 30x27 I put riding it on fixed somewhere beyond lunacy.
Having failed to get up a couple of the roads on the Maniac 1000 on a 30x27 I put riding it on fixed somewhere beyond lunacy.
And of course, Maniac on a geared bike is perfectly sane?
Hmmmmmmmmmmm?
Thought not... :P
Having failed to get up a couple of the roads on the Maniac 1000 on a 30x27 I put riding it on fixed somewhere beyond lunacy.
And of course, Maniac on a geared bike is perfectly sane?
Hmmmmmmmmmmm?
Thought not... :P
I didn't say I'd done the Maniac, I said I'd done a couple of the roads on it (on the Fred Whitton Challenge, as it happens). On foot. :)
still sane m'lud.
No, I urge people to join me on this ride:
www.thecrackpot1000.ru/riders/wives/index.html (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=25403.0)
If they want an ideal training ride for the Mille Cymriu.
H
That's a very good idea Hummers, to ride the Crackpot.
But you're jumping the gun a tad. You obviously haven't ridden the Crackpot before have you Hummers* << sigh >>
First you need to get fit for the Crackpot and riding a 1000k this December is just the ticket to launch you into the 2010 Audax season.
But be quick to avoid dissapointment!
Think on...
*Mwahahahaha!
I am in a natural traing cycle which involves gaining around 10kgs of pies, beer and curries before Watership Down.
H
Having failed to get up a couple of the roads on the Maniac 1000 on a 30x27 I put riding it on fixed somewhere beyond lunacy.
And of course, Maniac on a geared bike is perfectly sane?
Hmmmmmmmmmmm?
Thought not... :P
Having failed to get up a couple of the roads on the Maniac 1000 on a 30x27 I put riding it on fixed somewhere beyond lunacy.
And of course, Maniac on a geared bike is perfectly sane?
Hmmmmmmmmmmm?
Thought not... :P
I hope you're not questioning my sanity ... :)
Is iddu riding the route this weekend?
If he's on fixed then he'll have the hills to keep him warm.Do I look f. stupid - not a chance ;D
Is iddu riding the route this weekend?
That which does not kill us...certainly gives rise to thoughts of introducing the Org to Mr Shovel.
My. Oh my, oh my - be afraid; that's a grump fest anna half :thumbsup:
Now tested in its entirity
Well, if it can be done as a solo permanent in December, it must be a piece of piss ;)
Molto chapeauIs iddu riding the route this weekend?
That which does not kill us...certainly gives rise to thoughts of introducing the Org to Mr Shovel.
My. Oh my, oh my - be afraid; that's a grump fest anna half :thumbsup:
Now tested in its entirity
Well done sir :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
That which does not kill us...certainly gives rise to thoughts of introducing the Org to Mr Shovel.Oh good. My reputation is safe then. Wouldn't want anyone to think I was going soft just because the distance was going up.
My. Oh my, oh my - be afraid; that's a grump fest anna half :thumbsup:
Now tested in its entirityRespect.
Is iddu riding the route this weekend?
That which does not kill us...certainly gives rise to thoughts of introducing the Org to Mr Shovel.
My. Oh my, oh my - be afraid; that's a grump fest anna half :thumbsup:
Now tested in its entirity
Well, if it can be done as a solo permanent in December, it must be a piece of piss ;)
Well, if it can be done as a solo permanent in December, it must be a piece of piss ;)
ISTR that Iddu has done the K&SW 600 on fixed
So what he can or cannot do is not necessarily an indictator of anyone elses future performance
All the extra training I am doing to get into top shape for the Mille Cymru is clearly a waste of time and I will revert to the drinking of ale and munching of pies that built up my one-pack stomach over 2009Dat's my boy ;D Aerobelly recumbent :thumbsup:
How someone can do the route in December is beyond comprehension and deserves mucho mucho respect.I have a dumb, & (now) thighs like Hoy ;)
...
at least we shouldn't those weather conditions in July!
Mille Cymru 1000 - 23 July 2010 (http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/) gets me a placeholder now instead of the website that was there before.
thought today, since you've gone to the trouble of designing a nice logo why don't we have mille cymru t-shirts for all finishers...
thought today, since you've gone to the trouble of designing a nice logo why don't we have mille cymru t-shirts for all finishers...
A towelling head-band?now that's an even better idea
For a finisher's momento, something like this (http://www.shreewaterproof.com/air-cushion-piles.html), suitably customised with Mille Cymru branding could be nice.
thought today, since you've gone to the trouble of designing a nice logo why don't we have mille cymru t-shirts for all finishers... somebody (i'd be willing) could organise taking orders and money from finishers, order a batch from some t-shirt printing company (there must be loads), then send em out later
PerilGradient-sensitive sunglasses?
Looks good
The one that's giving me the heebie-jeebies is Leg 2...
I notice there are routes, maps and profiles including (clickable) POIs on the site (http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/route1.html) now, very nice :PYou've beat me to it. A draft routesheet & GPX files should be available very soon as well
The one that's giving me the heebie-jeebies is Leg 2....
Leg 4 looks brilliant. ;DLast 100k is all downhill after the top of Pumlumon ;D
Iddu agrees (but then he did ride it in december :P )The one that's giving me the heebie-jeebies is Leg 2....
That's the hard one I reckon. Leg 3 has the big headline climbs of the Elan Valley, Gospel Pass and up past Llyn Brianne but also some easy bits in between. Leg 2 otoh is just all either up or down, and often quite steep to go with it - think K&SW600.
Iddu agrees (but then he did ride it in december :P )
Iddu agrees (but then he did ride it in december :P )
Reminds me, he did send me his GPX tracklogs for me to cast my eye against.
Maybe jwo could produce one of his special spatial plots that maps elevation to line width...
I've known that the Mille Cymru was going to be as much a mental struggle as a physical one, but I didn't think that it would start with a Rorschach test 5 months before the start.
Thanks jwo.
I see a very small chainring.
Sheeez - I thought I was scared before but now I'm petrified!I will survive
Sheeez - I thought I was scared before but now I'm petrified!I will survive
Sheeez - I thought I was scared before but now I'm petrified!I will survive
Great - that's my ear-worm sorted for 1000km.
I see a very small chainring.
... and a very big sprocket.
Ultegra limits me to 30x27. Only 4 hills have beaten me on this: The Devil's Staircase on The Elenith (2008), Hardknott Pass and Wrynose Pass on the Fred Whitton Challenge (2008, 2009), and Buttertubs on the Tan Hill Challenge in 2006.You'll get a 28 on an Ultegra triple, I have that on my Hewitt, STis might not change to/from it though. I suspect they will TBH
2006 was my first season, so I discount that. Nothing will compare to Hardknott or Wrynose, so I can discount those too. The only relevant one is the Devil's Staircase, and I'm stronger than in 2008 - so I might be able to get up that now.
Might be a good idea to do the Elenith again this year. I hope for less snow than in 2008.
You'll get a 28 on an Ultegra triple, I have that on my Hewitt, STis might not change to/from it though. I suspect they will TBH
The interactive route maps are really slick. The MC1K website really is a paradigm for how these things should be done.
You'll get a 28 on an Ultegra triple, I have that on my Hewitt, STis might not change to/from it though. I suspect they will TBH
I have a 52/40/26 fitted to the front of my ultegra set-up, and a 9-speed 28-12 at the back - never had any change problems.
Managed all the climbs mentioned earlier - and other beasts elsewhere also.
I've just noticed that some of the 'places of interest' aren't even actually on the route - just close by e.g. Llyn Brianne. Clever!
Is anyone else planning on using a compact double ?
Is anyone else planning on using a compact double?I'm not.
50/34 with a 12-27 I think.
If these are like that then I see no problems really.
Is anyone else planning on using a compact double?
50/34 with a 12-27 I think.
If these are like that then I see no problems really.
That may be the root of your optimism ;)
edit: actually, I agree that many of them will be BCM-type hills. As Mr Dulates suggests, though, that day around Pembrokeshire may be of a different ilk.
Is anyone else planning on using a compact double?
50/34 with a 12-27 I think.
I was wondering what colour tyre pressure people will be using for the ride. I had planned on using a slightly purple pressure and perhaps with some added green for day two. But with all this anxiety and forward planning on this thread I wonder now if I am making the wrong choice. The possibility of getting a puncture on some remote Welsh hillside makes we wonder whether it might be safer to take along some spare orange pressure in my Carradice, just in case.
I was wondering what colour tyre pressure people will be using for the ride. I had planned on using a slightly purple pressure and perhaps with some added green for day two. But with all this anxiety and forward planning on this thread I wonder now if I am making the wrong choice. The possibility of getting a puncture on some remote Welsh hillside makes we wonder whether it might be safer to take along some spare orange pressure in my Carradice, just in case.
I reckon someone like Mal Volio would cope with a 75" fixed or 70 if erring on the side of caution, which could be wise with the Elan Valley the next day. 63" is for really hilly rides or super spinners, but not excessively low and a good choice for the nervous. I'd bung a bigger gear on the other side if you have a flip flop hub though.
All this talk of fears, gears and squiggly lines ..... are Postie and I alone in actually looking forward to this event?
All this talk of fears, gears and squiggly lines ..... are Postie and I alone in actually looking forward to this event?
Yup, I'm excited too.All this talk of fears, gears and squiggly lines ..... are Postie and I alone in actually looking forward to this event?
I am! I love riding round Wales. And John Hamilton's a great organiser. To me, this is the most exciting event since PBP
I have already advised mattc on how to mentally prepare for the event (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=25176.msg454012#msg454012)
I am tumescent with anticipation.cum, cymru = cumree I think
PS: How do you pronounce Cwm? I always think "quim", but that can't be right, surely.
I'm really looking forward to this as well.
It will be tough but if I complete it (preferably within time) the sense of achievement should be massive. If I fail to complete it then it won't be for want of trying and I'll get some consolation from having taken part in this epic.
I'm looking forward to the various 'warm up' events this includes almost as much as this Welsh madness in July.
I am tumescent with anticipation.
PS: How do you pronounce Cwm? I always think "quim", but that can't be right, surely.
I'm not really excited about this. It's just another bike ride.
PS: How do you pronounce Cwm?
Cwm is pronounced almost like coom (but with a slightly shorter vowel sound, as if said by a Yorkshireman ;)) ; analogous to the English coombe (even if it's not quite the same thing)
Cymru is pronounced come-ree.
Cwm is pronounced almost like coom (but with a slightly shorter vowel sound, as if said by a Yorkshireman ;)) ; analogous to the English coombe (even if it's not quite the same thing)
Cymru is pronounced come-ree.
I believe that cwm, coombe and quim are are related.
I believe that cwm, coombe and quim are are related.
H
Also note to self - better get some walking shoes 'cos look cleats aren't going to be any good on the Beulah to Newbridge road.... ???
looks like leg 2 is the recovery one now...?
and the endless rollers of the A487 from Cardigan - Aber have been replaced with a run up the Teifi to Llandysul,
The new route sounds .... tougher. I'm not entirely sure I'd have signed up to this!
What have I done? :'(
I'm training myself to defecate in the morning instead of the evening to help in the hills.
I'm training myself to defecate in the morning instead of the evening to help in the hills.
:thumbsup: although I don't remember reading that as a training technique in my Long Distance Cyclist's Handbook. See, the experts don't know everything after all! ;D
I'm training myself to defecate in the morning instead of the evening to help in the hills.
The last 60k is a sting in the tail though...
(http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/images/mille_cymru_velo.gif)
I haven't looked at the revised route but I note from MV's post that it now includes Bendigedig. That's wonderful.
Thanks to the jersey pictured here - I have for the first time worked out why the national emblem is a dragon.
.
Has this altered the total climb figure for the ride an any signifcant way?
The new route sounds .... tougher. I'm not entirely sure I'd have signed up to this! But there's no turning back now Mr Frodo ...Last night I downloaded the gpx for day 1 and opened it in bikehike. BIke hike allows to to save out as a text file ,in tab delimited layout, which you can then opene as a spreadsheet. The thing that bothers me is that the spreadsheet totted up 9128metres of elevation gain :o
Has this altered the total climb figure for the ride an any signifcant way?The new route sounds .... tougher. I'm not entirely sure I'd have signed up to this! But there's no turning back now Mr Frodo ...Last night I downloaded the gpx for day 1 and opened it in bikehike. BIke hike allows to to save out as a text file ,in tab delimited layout, which you can then opene as a spreadsheet. The thing that bothers me is that the spreadsheet totted up 9128metres of elevation gain :o
I really hope someone can convince that this is blx
Nope, it's just jittery data. (I just did the same and got the same figure as you in Excel)Thank God - I nearly withdrew my entry on the spot!
Take a look at lines 866 to 868:-
866 52.81203 -3.61643 81.431 392 -20 0
867 52.81223 -3.61678 81.464 421 29 29
868 52.81305 -3.61744 81.565 405 -16 0
Now have a look at:
52.81203,-3.61643 to 52.81305,-3.61744
in google maps and click on the Terrain button.
Does it really drop 20 meters, climb 29 meters then drop 16 meters in that short distance? Nope.
I've been sorting out a jersey as well, which is now designed and will be ready to order soon
(http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/images/mille_cymru_velo.gif)
You can tell that even this is a bit dodgy because it only has 5328m of descent, but the end elevation is only 126m above the start, which doesn't explain all of the 484m difference between climbing/descending figures.(http://snag.files.wordpress.com/2007/02/238542495_21bb5b1747.jpg)
You can tell that even this is a bit dodgy because it only has 5328m of descent, but the end elevation is only 126m above the start, which doesn't explain all of the 484m difference between climbing/descending figures.http://snag.files.wordpress.com/2007/02/238542495_21bb5b1747.jpg
Nebridge/Beulah (or Beulah/Newbridge) three times! Unnecessary - it only took one passage to bust my knee last time. No-one has more than two knees do they?
So does that mean there is space for few more riders..?
Having had to give up my place for domestic reasons, I can only look on at this thread with increasing disappointment. It looks like this is going to be a classic event in every way!
Because the first day is now longer, we'll be starting at 06:00 instead of 07:00 to give you more daylight on that first day. The third day is of course shorter to make up for it and I've had to miss out the Gospel Pass :( but you'll get Mynydd Eppynt instead.so the 1st day is 350km and 5400m. Can't see me getting to bed much before dawn :(
Having had to give up my place for domestic reasons, I can only look on at this thread with increasing disappointment. It looks like this is going to be a classic event in every way!
Having read the site with a bit more care, I'm a bit disappointed to see that, while our bad drop towel(s) will be awaiting us in Llanwrtyd, the shower facilities remain at Aberystwyth.
Having read the site with a bit more care, I'm a bit disappointed to see that, while our bad drop towel(s) will be awaiting us in Llanwrtyd, the shower facilities remain at Aberystwyth.
Just get some shower sandal - you'll be fine!
Canterbury Shower Sandals (http://www.rugbystore.co.uk/collections/rugbyboots/canterbury_shower_sandals)
Having read the site with a bit more care, I'm a bit disappointed to see that, while our bad drop towel(s) will be awaiting us in Llanwrtyd, the shower facilities remain at Aberystwyth.Whoops. There are (limited) shower facilities at Llanwrtyd. Website corrected.
That's right. First call is going to my existing waiting list right now.So does that mean there is space for few more riders..?
My guess is that it's already filled by names from the waiting list.
Nebridge/Beulah (or Beulah/Newbridge) three times!You can always go the long way round via Builth
And I've just noticed that that it's not just the gradients we have to be worried about. The B4300 Fairfach / Carmarthen road features in Dave L's Estuary Welsh 200 (the other way). It is no worse than gently undulating, it runs along the Towy and there are pleasant views, but everyone I spoke to after last year's EW agreed that for no easily discernible reason it is one of the most spirit-sapping stretches of tarmac in the principality.You'll just be glad that it's flat by that point.
Yes, got that when I rode round at Easter. Cuts about 300yds off the route :)and the endless rollers of the A487 from Cardigan - Aber have been replaced with a run up the Teifi to Llandysul,
I hope you noticed the new Llandysul by pass. So new that it's not shown on any online maps or on Street View. There are now rounabouts etc where the map shows no road junction.
Newbridge/Beulah (or Beulah/Newbridge) three times! Unnecessary - it only took one passage to bust my knee last time. No-one has more than two knees do they?
use your Kidneys?
Because the first day is now longer, we'll be starting at 06:00 instead of 07:00 to give you more daylight on that first day. The third day is of course shorter to make up for it and I've had to miss out the Gospel Pass :( but you'll get Mynydd Eppynt instead.so the 1st day is 350km and 5400m. Can't see me getting to bed much before dawn :(
I guess us slower riders will have to cane the first day and use any time in the bank to grovel round the rest. Or something ...
[ new split is 350 / 310 / 231 / 100-odd ]
This ride really is gonna screw over the slower riders I think. 350 very hilly km in the first day = hardly any sleep time at all in the bank and a harder next two days as a result compared to the faster guys (and gals).
This ride really is gonna screw over the slower riders I think. 350 very hilly km in the first day = hardly any sleep time at all in the bank and a harder next two days as a result compared to the faster guys (and gals).
Mmm
I think it might screw over some of those who aren't that slow, in just the same way. I saw this on the 2006 NF1000 (which was a pussy cat in comparison): if you didn't really make a hard effort to get back to the overnight control at a decent time the first night, the whole thing just slipped away. By day 3 people ended up 10 or so hours out of sync with where they needed to be to sleep. Even quite fast people in some cases.
The difference with LEL is that there is a control every 80 k or so. With this 1000 you have to get 300-350 hilly km in, in the day, to get back to the sleep stop. If that slips on any day, for whatever reason, you're stuffed for the rest of the event. It's not like LEL or PBP, where you just opt to stop at a different control than you'd planned.
I agree about the faster riders having more flexibility, but I think this scenario is perhaps a real danger even for quite fast riders. Only the really fast boys & girls can be confident of avoiding it. There's not many of them...
I doesn't seem like there's much choice but to get back to the sleep control each day. If that's at 5am, you get an hour in bed before you have to go out again. It's going to be a challenge! After yesterday and contemplating doing it all again a few hours later, then again again, I'm glad I'll be helping out and not riding :^)Good to see you have empathy for the problem. When I get in at 5am I expect you to be gagging the departing riders, and generally ensuring a sleep-promoting atmosphere.
Umm, this is a really good point. I'd not been thinking about schedules until now, just been concentrating on getting the miles in. I now might actually have to plan some 'real speed work' over the next 10-12 weeks as well, and see if I can couple that with shifting a few ponds. This event has now become a whole different kettle of fish. Bugger! Some new wheels would help as well (note to wife ::-))
Umm, this is a really good point. I'd not been thinking about schedules until now, just been concentrating on getting the miles in. I now might actually have to plan some 'real speed work' over the next 10-12 weeks as well, and see if I can couple that with shifting a few ponds. This event has now become a whole different kettle of fish. Bugger! Some new wheels would help as well (note to wife ::-))
given that you finished the Elenith in < 14 hours, I don't think you have too much to be worried about ;)
This ride really is gonna screw over the slower riders I think.
Getting your head right is one thing - attitude, pushing through pain & adversity, giving things a go etc - but not being physically up to the challenge is not something the head can over rule. Is it? Not for 4 days anyway.
This ride really is gonna screw over the slower riders I think. 350 very hilly km in the first day = hardly any sleep time
Mental discipline will be very important on this ride. If you can keep your stopping time down, then that's half the battle won.
This ride really is gonna screw over the slower riders I think. 350 very hilly km in the first day = hardly any sleep time
Hang on a sec. You did the Irish Mail 400 last year and finished before me and ChrisN.
You aren't that slow, even on slopes
Mental discipline will be very important on this ride. If you can keep your stopping time down, then that's half the battle won.
given that you finished the Elenith in < 14 hours, I don't think you have too much to be worried about ;)That may well be, but there is NO WAY I could go out and do that again today!
Some new wheels would help as well (note to wife ::-))
Some new wheels would help as well (note to wife ::-))
I've considered if there is absolutely any equipment that would help me on this ride.
I could get a new coat that would weigh 300g less. But for 100 quid that seems like not a very good investment. All the other things I have considered have a similar problem, high cost, minimal improvement. My current bike/luggage/clothing is all good enough already
I'll certainly fit new tyres before the event but that's more of a maintenance thing
The best thing that could help me is to lose weight. A few hundred grams here or there will make next to no difference. Losing 10kg will. :thumbsup:
Some new wheels would help as well (note to wife ::-))
I've considered if there is absolutely any equipment that would help me on this ride.
I could get a new coat that would weigh 300g less. But for 100 quid that seems like not a very good investment. All the other things I have considered have a similar problem, high cost, minimal improvement. My current bike/luggage/clothing is all good enough already
I'll certainly fit new tyres before the event but that's more of a maintenance thing
The best thing that could help me is to lose weight. A few hundred grams here or there will make next to no difference. Losing 10kg will. :thumbsup:
Some new wheels would help as well (note to wife ::-))
I've considered if there is absolutely any equipment that would help me on this ride.
I could get a new coat that would weigh 300g less. But for 100 quid that seems like not a very good investment. All the other things I have considered have a similar problem, high cost, minimal improvement. My current bike/luggage/clothing is all good enough already
I'll certainly fit new tyres before the event but that's more of a maintenance thing
The best thing that could help me is to lose weight. A few hundred grams here or there will make next to no difference. Losing 10kg will. :thumbsup:
10kg over 3 months might be pushing it a bit because you can end up burning muscle - 5kg is a lot more do-able. This is what I did.
What if you're only a couple of kg over and its looking like you'd struggle a 300 now....What chance the Mille then? :-\I am in that situation due to my injury. I doubt I am overweight but I am fatter and heavier than I would like to be. I am not doing the Mille Cymru now though, I mean at this time, April, time to get some focus and prepare. I'll be reet come July.
Well, yeh - I am talking from my own viewpoint as someone who is - according to the textbooks at least - about 20kg overweight for my height. I don't subscribe tooooo much to what they say but losing 10kg will and should be an acheivable goal.
For yourself, losing those last few lbs may prove a little more difficult. Although SImonP seems to have managed it ok. I suspect if weight is not such a big issue, then maybe you need to work on power / endurance?
What if you're only a couple of kg over and its looking like you'd struggle a 300 now....What chance the Mille then? :-\
I'll certainly fit new tyres before the event but that's more of a maintenance thing... and will probably add weight. :P
Young Master Garter and I went for a pootle over Easter, taking in most of the roads from day one of MC. The verdict: there's the odd bit of flat.
Work out why you can't ride long distances and fix it in the next 3 months
- All I have to is get this "work" thing outof my life then I'll have time......
Or,
- Not spend any time with my wife and kid....
Or,
-Just do the miles (once my boil has gone) ;D......
So far up to this point everything's more or less cancelled out. The final run back to Shrewsbury though is 1700m in 117k or 16m/km which is 500m more than the run back from Aber was. So it's not the first day you want to worry about - it's the last.
To quote JFK. "We choose to do these things not because they are easy, but because we are stupid".
So far up to this point everything's more or less cancelled out. The final run back to Shrewsbury though is 1700m in 117k or 16m/km which is 500m more than the run back from Aber was. So it's not the first day you want to worry about - it's the last.
Am I right in thinking that we must finish by 9am on the last day to be inside the BRM time limit?
Am I right in thinking that we must finish by 9am on the last day to be inside the BRM time limit?
Yes I think that a 1000 must be done in 75hours. Effectively, one need to kip until 2am and then finish, that will be a bit tricky!
So Day 3 is effectively 347km with 5400m climbing. Kind of.
It's funny - I finally get round to entering the Marmotte and it becomes a training ride.
I'm not a fast rider (my baseline time for a hilly 300 is 16-17hrs).
Nice pictures. It's been interesting watching the fear build.Yes & Yes
Day 3: 230km, 3700m (16.3m/km). This is going to be a tough third day no doubt about it.YES! (cf 2nd yes)
Umm, this is a really good point. I'd not been thinking about schedules until now, just been concentrating on getting the miles in. I now might actually have to plan some 'real speed work' over the next 10-12 weeks as well, and see if I can couple that with shifting a few ponds. This event has now become a whole different kettle of fish. Bugger! Some new wheels would help as well (note to wife ::-))
given that you finished the Elenith in < 14 hours, I don't think you have too much to be worried about ;)
That may well be, but there is NO WAY I could go out and do that again today!
But the devil's staircase took a lot out of my legs. My average power output on the next section was down by 20-30W.
Having sore legs on day 2 is my biggest worry.
Indeed. Sore legs on day 2, day 3 will be when it is tough to swing a leg over the bike.
It is odd how the body adapts though - I find I end up having trouble walking (especially down stairs) but once I've clambered back on the bike I can pedal OK.
Indeed. Sore legs on day 2, day 3 will be when it is tough to swing a leg over the bike.
It is odd how the body adapts though - I find I end up having trouble walking (especially down stairs) but once I've clambered back on the bike I can pedal OK.
My preparations are going to include some rides where I ride a hilly event, sleep overnight and then ride another the next day. Snow Roads/Wildcat and CS2H/CS2E. Indeed, the week of the Snow Roads will see me rest for 3 days after the Wildcat, then do the Saltire 200, rest for a day and then do the Bowland 200. That this is a "holiday" seems rather an abuse of the term ;)
Better to learn from experience before the MC1K than to find out for the first time on the day.
Having sore legs on day 2 is my biggest worry.
Then you're in trouble. Who's starting day 2 with fresh legs?!
Correct. BRM time limit is 75 hours. So finish by 9am Monday morning. AUK time limit is an extra hour and a bit (for the 15k over-distance).Is this right John? I think it's only 7k over => 42mins
Is this right John? I think it's only 7k over => 42mins
There is much comfort in your words, Marcus.
H
P.s.
You wouldn't like to be a dear and tell me you are also a fat middle aged man too, would you?
Would one out of the two do? I can't deny my age but I like to think I've kept my youthful trim figure.
"....and in that brief moment, Hummers felt the last tyre lever of hope ping from the rim of ambition, lost forever amongst the roadside stinging nettles and bracken of dark yet silent despair..."
Would one out of the two do? I can't deny my age but I like to think I've kept my youthful trim figure.
"....and in that brief moment, Hummers felt the last tyre lever of hope ping from the rim of ambition, lost forever amongst the roadside stinging nettles and bracken of dark yet silent despair..."
Or if you can go fast enough to do this and get enough sleep: start day 2 at 5 am and day 3 at 4 am (just at/before dawn) - and ride day 3 as 349k.
I look at this thread and wonder if I'm taking my attempt to do the Gt Eastern seriously enough (note: nice'n'flat).Well, it _is_ a silly idea - but these things are relative :) Many have ridden PBP like that, but mainly in hot years, I think. Your ride is a bit shorter and flatter, I believe?
At the moment I'm considering riding through each night and napping on the verge once the day warms up again. This is probably a silly idea 3 nights on the trot.
Or if you can go fast enough to do this and get enough sleep: start day 2 at 5 am and day 3 at 4 am (just at/before dawn) - and ride day 3 as 349k.
there's no way it has nearly 6000m of climbing in that first day.
Quite. Tracklogs said the bcm was 12500m. :o
The interpolation is the problem
Quite. Tracklogs said the bcm was 12500m. :o
The interpolation is the problem
A figure of 1.4-1.5 times the contour counted figure is usually what I've found too. And TrackLogs uses OS elevation data which ISTR incorporates SRTM derived data.
So, back to the spreadsheet with my shiny new data. This time it totted up 5972m of climbing. HHmm well better than last time but still over a 1000m above Mr Dulates figure. I then got the spreadsheet to flag up just the peaks and troughs in the elevation data. I stripped out all the rest. This reduced the file from 4366 trackpoints to a mere 1193 with the total climb remaining at 5972. Then I got the sheet to flag up all those peaks preceded by at least 9m of continuous climb and tot up a new climbing figure based on these only. It found 164 peaks over 9m and totted up 4706m of climb (close agreement with John’s figure). The ignored less-than-9m peaks are the minor undulations that can occur unnoticed between 10m contour lines.
This is the climbing you miss in a contour count.
12 weeks and counting.
Yep, thank God the website doesn't have a countdown timer on it.
Quite. Tracklogs said the bcm was 12500m. :o
The interpolation is the problem
A figure of 1.4-1.5 times the contour counted figure is usually what I've found too. And TrackLogs uses OS elevation data which ISTR incorporates SRTM derived data.
Exactly, and if you look how the SRTM data is derived you'll realise how inaccurate it will be for roads that run along the sides of valleys (rather common in Wales), or even anything undulating.
"
Contours are now derived from a finer height grid. The 3 arcsecond * 3 arcsecond SRTM grid (about 60*90m at our Latitude) has been subdivided into 2 wide by 3 high (thus about 30m square) points, which are interpolated using a 36-point spline (i.e. taking account of the nearest 6*6 grid of SRTM datapoints). The resulting finer grid was then contoured as before (using 3DEM and DEM2TOPO). This gives 'rounder' contours, which take account of local gradients and gradient changes .. however small features will still be missing, since you can only 'round' what was seen to be there, not 'invent' things which were too small to get measured in the first place.
"
So the individual height point is based on the height of a 6*6 grid of SRTM datapoints. A 6x6 grid of those points represents an area of 300x450m. And you can be as far as ~55m from a real measured point in a 60*90m grid.
Climbing figures from a GPS will be inaccurate for a different reason, jitter. Leave a GPS on a window sill for an afternoon and see how far you've traveled and how much climbing you've done.
I 'climbed' 163m playing 5-a-side football last night. On a perfectly flat pitch. Elevation Plot from Garmin Forerunner 405 GPS here (http://www.greenbank.org/misc/elev_football.jpg)
I 'climbed' 2066m in my sleep one night too (I forgot to disable the GPS when using the Forerunner to log my HR during a nights' sleep). Going from 26m (which is about right), even going as far down as 62m below sea level and as high as 120m ASL. Magic.So, back to the spreadsheet with my shiny new data. This time it totted up 5972m of climbing. HHmm well better than last time but still over a 1000m above Mr Dulates figure. I then got the spreadsheet to flag up just the peaks and troughs in the elevation data. I stripped out all the rest. This reduced the file from 4366 trackpoints to a mere 1193 with the total climb remaining at 5972. Then I got the sheet to flag up all those peaks preceded by at least 9m of continuous climb and tot up a new climbing figure based on these only. It found 164 peaks over 9m and totted up 4706m of climb (close agreement with John’s figure). The ignored less-than-9m peaks are the minor undulations that can occur unnoticed between 10m contour lines.
This is the climbing you miss in a contour count.
I've got a very similar thing done as a perl script working off GPX tracklogs (or GPX files from routes created on Bikely and the like).
GPX/GPS utilities/scripts (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=19120.0)
It works by removing intermediate points (b where: a > b > c and a < b < c). You're then left with a set of alternating points of peaks/troughs. You can then apply an algorithm to get rid of peaks that climb below a certain amount (i.e. 10m) and then apply the first algorithm again. Repeat until you don't remove any points.
I use it for picking out the major peaks (over 50m climbing) of a planned ride (based on the bikely GPX) to add as extra waypoints so I know where the tops of the hills are; this allows me to pace myself up the hill and also helps avoid the soul destroying 'I must be almost at the top by now' as you round a corner to see another several km of climbing...
With a lower limit for climbing (c.f. 10m) I've had climbing figures that agreed with the organisers figures, although the climbing figures for some rides seem to be based on the raw figures from a GPS, so it seems like a hillier ride than it actually is.
I hoping that the release of the Ordnance Survey data (including spot height database) will help as the OS spot heights are often placed directly on the road at the top (and bottom) of roads (and therefore climbs). That data will allow for a far more accurate idea of climbing figures.
I'm also hoping that this can help in providing a consistent figure for AUK climbing. I'm sure Mr Snook and Mr Coates will be looking at this, and I hope I can do something to help too.
Anyway, probably a better idea to continue one of the other threads on this subject:
GPX/GPS utilities/scripts (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=19120.0)
Altitude measurement - who to believe! (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=16780.msg302528#msg302528)
etc..
rather than clog up the MC1000 thread.
:o
Holy shit - and you're not even riding it Alex!
Were you in any way involved in the Mars Beagle Lander?
Hmmmmmmmm?
H
12 weeks and counting.
F**king hell. That sounds so soon :sick:
First up, thanks to our new venue at Llanwrtyd Wells, there's now a limited number of additional entries available for this event. Details as always on the event website Mille Cymru 1000 - 23 July 2010 (http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk)
So, progress report. I missed the Elenith (and indeed any other 300 this year!) so unlike some of you, the BC400 was my first long welsh adventure to get a benchmark from.
I noticed the Bwlch control was about the same distance as the MC1000 1st "sleep" stop. Can anyone translate the preceding climbing discussion to give a comparison between the two? (I know the answer is "more" - but by how much?!?)
(It was nice to get through 500k this weekend - it may have been a lot flatter than half-a-MC1000, but it's a start. Incidentally, Somerset Monument on my way home was the only thing I walked all weekend! )
...Thanks Simon. (Comparable counting methods was exactly what I wanted).
However, since the same method - contour counting - is used on both events, the figures are probably comparable. Hence if you can get to Bwlch at 1.45am then you ought to be able to complete day 1 in a similar time.
Getting to the sleep stop by 2am would be gravy.
Having DNS'ed the Brevet Cymru thanks to a rather too busy week of work and organising I've finished using up my stock of round tuits this weekend.
First up, thanks to our new venue at Llanwrtyd Wells, there's now a limited number of additional entries available for this event. Details as always on the event website Mille Cymru 1000 - 23 July 2010 (http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk)
I think I'll work on a profile recording the group's collective fear quotient based on this thread.
Put like that, I'm increasingly confident that this one is doable.another way of putting it is 356, 311, 232, 127. whether that makes it sound any easier i don't know...
Profile is bound to be different though. Brevet Cymru only gets properly Welsh lumpy around Builth Wells. The first 100km is relatively flat (barring the lump at Grosmont).
Any other suggestions?
I've ordered a months supply of Onanabics from Hummers to help with the weight loss. Just had an email from him to say that he is having trouble keeping up with supply as mr nesbitt has been placing a huge weekly order for some months now
I was shocked to discover that there is an entire YACF sub-forum devoted to riding faster, using underhand tricks like 'training', and 'intervals' (sometimes together).
What's worse is that some of the posters are AUK members.
Further and Faster (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?board=57.0)
[I'd prefer a Mille Cymru cape that I could unfurl on any AAA rated event. Like an 80s wrestling cape. T shirts etc are so passe.+1 - endows much more...panache. Plus you could sail up the passes given right wind conditions ;D
Make it so.
[I'd prefer a Mille Cymru cape that I could unfurl on any AAA rated event. Like an 80s wrestling cape. T shirts etc are so passe.+1 - endows much more...panache. Plus you could sail up the passes given right wind conditions ;D
Make it so.
vvv [sig]
Wrexham & Shropshire Railways £20 return tickets from Marylebone to Shrewsbury are on sale now
Wrexham & Shropshire rail tickets online (http://ticketing.wrexhamandshropshire.co.uk/index.php)
I'm booked on the 11.20 on Thursday coming back at 12.07 on Sunday - the countdown starts now....
Wrexham & Shropshire Railways £20 return tickets from Marylebone to Shrewsbury are on sale now
Wrexham & Shropshire rail tickets online (http://ticketing.wrexhamandshropshire.co.uk/index.php)
I'm booked on the 11.20 on Thursday coming back at 12.07 on Sunday - the countdown starts now....
Shouldn't you be coming back on Monday? I thought you looked strong on the BCM, but not that strong
(http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/corazon-fair-trade_2104_35004192) + (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/corazon-fair-trade_2106_3271803) = (http://www.nataliedee.com/012908/self-esteem-is-awesome.jpg)Shirt. SHIRT!!! ;D
Some of us are finding it hard getting over 300k :-[ and are just slightly getting runny botty about it all...... :oHedology: it's just 100 trips to the shops, OK ;D
The rest must be gently rolling.
or you can order online if you prefer http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/about_jersey.html (http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/about_jersey.html)
or you can order online if you prefer http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/about_jersey.html (http://www.mille-cymru.org.uk/about_jersey.html)
Orders MUST be received by Mon 14th June 2010
Skates=on
Are these fine garments coming from Owayo? (in which case I know the sizing )
Are these fine garments coming from Owayo? (in which case I know the sizing )
Is it me or is anyone else concerned that so many riders have been riding sections of the route in advance of the event? :facepalm:
Is it me or is anyone else concerned that so many riders have been riding sections of the route in advance of the event? :facepalm:
Why only this weekend, I understand that an event was deliberately organsied (on the same Sunday as my local Club Run) that covered a sizeable chunk of the land they call Wales.
Call me sensitive but I feel this is not only is this unsporting and therefore un-British but it also not in the S O A* and falls into the same black hole of loathsome activity as training, diets, cycling computers, GPS, route sheets with intermediate distances between instructions and buying new tyres.
Surely, this will give these riders an unfair advantage over those of us who have been restricted to the flatter countryside of the south coast and south west of England and are 'making do'?
Live and let live, I say but feel it only reasonable that anyone who has been to Wales in the past 3 months (on a bike or otherwise) is penalised in some way for having the bareface temerity to find out what they have let themselves in for in just over a month's time.
I doubt I am alone in thinking this and suspect that there are many other right-thinking paid up members of AUK that feel exactly the same and are nodding their head in agreement as they read this.
The question is, what is going to be done about this?
As for the rest of you, those that have gone on furtive scouting missions into the (for the rest of us) unknown, I trust that you will be able to reconcile your feelings of guilt with the feel of that shirt on your cowardly yellow flesh
Call me sensitive but I feel this is not only is this unsporting and therefore un-British but it also not in the S O A* and falls into the same black hole of loathsome activity as training, diets, cycling computers, GPS, route sheets with intermediate distances between instructions and buying new tyres.
As for the rest of you, those that have gone on furtive scouting missions into the (for the rest of us) unknown, I trust that you will be able to reconcile your feelings of guilt with the feel of that shirt on your cowardly yellow flesh.
Hello, I`m 53 and a Norwegian who , on the spur of the moment signed up for this event when some more places where announced in May. I have been on a bicycle in GB once before some 30 years ago. I have no clue as to what I have let myself in for, but hope that I can get some advice here. I have only recently started riding longer distances (did PBP as my first "serious" event in 2007) so I am not very expeienced in riding an Audax by map,. Will there be groups to ride with ? If not (or, heaven forbid, I get dropped) , is the route well marked ? I hope to use my newly bought Garmin 705 but have yet to master the GPS function. What kind of weather to expect ?
Will there be groups to ride with?
If not (or, heaven forbid, I get dropped) , is the route well marked ?
I hope to use my newly bought Garmin 705 but have yet to master the GPS function.
What kind of weather to expect ?
I was fixed-gear training in Scotland yesterday ;)
I was fixed-gear training in Scotland yesterday ;)
Excellent Simon. I take my hat off to you for attempting the Mille on fixed :thumbsup:
Does Marcus also count as a flatlander?
Hello, I`m 53 and a Norwegian who , on the spur of the moment signed up for this event when some more places where announced in May. I have been on a bicycle in GB once before some 30 years ago. I have no clue as to what I have let myself in for, but hope that I can get some advice here. I have only recently started riding longer distances (did PBP as my first "serious" event in 2007) so I am not very expeienced in riding an Audax by map,. Will there be groups to ride with ? If not (or, heaven forbid, I get dropped) , is the route well marked ? I hope to use my newly bought Garmin 705 but have yet to master the GPS function. What kind of weather to expect ?
I expect that the beer is better and cheaper in Wales. Also the glaciers in Wales are only available in liquid formatHello, I`m 53 and a Norwegian who , on the spur of the moment signed up for this event when some more places where announced in May. I have been on a bicycle in GB once before some 30 years ago. I have no clue as to what I have let myself in for...
But tell me of your homeland: the sweet smelling vallleys, the swooping glaciers, dark bottomless fiords and towering purple headed mountains... I wonder what a tour of Wales offers you when there is so much beauty where you live?
When a guy wearing a TT helmet with horns on passes me I'll think "there goes mr Bluetooth"
Will there be groups to ride with ?
Can I mention that I'm a bit scared now? :-\
99 Riders! Bl***dy H*ll!
Hello, I`m 53 and a Norwegian who , on the spur of the moment signed up for this event when some more places where announced in May. I have been on a bicycle in GB once before some 30 years ago. I have no clue as to what I have let myself in for, but hope that I can get some advice here. I have only recently started riding longer distances (did PBP as my first "serious" event in 2007) so I am not very expeienced in riding an Audax by map,. Will there be groups to ride with ? If not (or, heaven forbid, I get dropped) , is the route well marked ? I hope to use my newly bought Garmin 705 but have yet to master the GPS function. What kind of weather to expect ?
........Those who do not fear are on the path tothe Dark Sidepain, suffering and DNF."
I'm really looking forward to it. :thumbsup:
and and try not to prod anyones backside with my horned helmet.
I would plan for PBP-2007 weather, but 3-4' colder at night. (and then be grateful if it isn't!)What kind of weather to expect ?
The UK climate is changeable, Wales even more so. If you did PBP 2007 then that's one end of the scale of what could happen (I didn't ride it but I read the stories).
Plan and prepare for rain but bring suncream. It may be cool at the top of the passes (you only go up to 600m elevation max) and you'll get cold on the descents if wet. Temperature drops quite a bit after dark (see below) but never below freezing in July.
Here's a photo of Snowdonia (you'll be going through here on day 1):-
http://www.greenbank.org/misc/IMG_0910.JPG
Quite a few people got a bit of sunburn that day. Later that night it rained (the faster riders would have missed that). On another day you'd get 30mm of rain there.
Daytime temperature should be mid 20s oC but a rare heatwave could push that up to low o30s C, at night it shouldn't go below 5oC but that means you'll need an extra layer (arm/leg warmers, windproof gilet/jacket and possibly a skullcap/headwarmer).
John:
My current forecast is for 80 riders.
My current forecast is for 80 riders.
My current forecast is for 80 riders.
I predict 46 finishers. Anybody else care to have a guesstimate?
What is the check-in procedure (other than normal event stuff)? It's an 0600 start now, what time will sign-in commence?
Will we collect Jerseys on the day?
Any special bag-drops arrangements?
[i'm only asking this early so we know what time to arrive. And hence what time to go to bed / checkin to accomodation ... !]
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SP36X1tt6tU/TCjtyZwtYlI/AAAAAAAAEaw/0QYHu-fOzJc/s320/DSCN1061.JPG)
:thumbsup:
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SP36X1tt6tU/TCjtyZwtYlI/AAAAAAAAEaw/0QYHu-fOzJc/s320/DSCN1061.JPG)
:thumbsup:
What did C+ have to say about it. Was it just time/place/distance?
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SP36X1tt6tU/TCjtyZwtYlI/AAAAAAAAEaw/0QYHu-fOzJc/s320/DSCN1061.JPG)
What did C+ have to say about it. Was it just time/place/distance?
It's in a feature called "Your best summer yet", with lots of snippets about training, nutrition, health etc.
Under on of the "fun" topics, it lists "Audax, my boy...". There are a couple of sentences about what Audax is (self sufficient distance rides, not as glamorous as sportives, but "... they easily beat them for a challenge."
In a single sentence it describes Mille Cymru as "epic", says that it is full, and gives the aukweb URL.
Pretty balanced.
I'm really looking forward to it. :thumbsup:
Me too. It's a shame we have over a month to wait as I am good to go now :)
Respectful rather than fearful best describes my feelings about the challenge ahead.
I'm fitter than ever - if I'm not fit enough now, then I doubt I'll ever be.
Do you need someone to look after that new VN pro-tem :demon:
I'm fitter than ever - if I'm not fit enough now, then I doubt I'll ever be.
So was I until Saturday when I damaged something in my left shin/ankle on a 200 and am now unable to ride (and can barely walk). Hoping Ibroprufen and rest will heal it in time.
My current forecast is for 80 riders.
I predict 46 finishers. Anybody else care to have a guesstimate?
I'm fitter than ever - if I'm not fit enough now, then I doubt I'll ever be.
So was I until Saturday when I damaged something in my left shin/ankle on a 200 and am now unable to ride (and can barely walk). Hoping Ibroprufen and rest will heal it in time.
Hope it heals soon. See you in Upton Magna then. You are coming aren't you?
On Johns email out tonight he mentions booking a meal and accommodation. I am bringing a tent and I will be needing FOODJust email or PM me (I'll put you down for camping & food). I'm not so bothered about camping - plenty of room for everyone. But I would like to know how much food to be cooking that night. And there isn't room for everyone to sleep in the hall so I do need to know about that if you want to be guaranteed a space (which is one reason why I recommend camping).
I vaguely remember seeing a form when I was getting the jersey
Any ideas if this is still on the website and if so where?
Food sounds like a good idea. I'll be staying in a travelodge about 4 miles away. Quicker to cycle from there than to strike camp. :)Food is fine even if you're not staying over. In fact I'd encourage anyone travelling up the night before to come and sign in on Thursday - you can collect your brevet card and jersey and cut out a queue at silly o'clock in the morning.
On Johns email out tonight he mentions booking a meal and accommodation. I am bringing a tent and I will be needing FOODJust email or PM me (I'll put you down for camping & food). I'm not so bothered about camping - plenty of room for everyone. But I would like to know how much food to be cooking that night. And there isn't room for everyone to sleep in the hall so I do need to know about that if you want to be guaranteed a space (which is one reason why I recommend camping).
I vaguely remember seeing a form when I was getting the jersey
Any ideas if this is still on the website and if so where?Food sounds like a good idea. I'll be staying in a travelodge about 4 miles away. Quicker to cycle from there than to strike camp. :)Food is fine even if you're not staying over. In fact I'd encourage anyone travelling up the night before to come and sign in on Thursday - you can collect your brevet card and jersey and cut out a queue at silly o'clock in the morning.
Cool - I'll definitely do that. I've still to book trains - what time should we be there if we wants food?
My current forecast is for 80 riders.
I predict 46 finishers. Anybody else care to have a guesstimate?
Any guesses on:
Proportion of field have done PBP/LEL/equivalent distance before?
Number of fixeds?
Beard count?
Cool - I'll definitely do that. I've still to book trains - what time should we be there if we wants food?
Between 7 & 9'ish. I imagine we'll all be wanting a reasonably early night.
"UK Outlook for Sunday 18 Jul 2010 to Sunday 1 Aug 2010:
A good deal of dry and warm weather is expected during the second half of July and into the start of August, with most places seeing temperatures above normal for much of the period. A spell of average or above average rainfall looks likely for the first few days but many places will end the month drier than normal, although more unsettled conditions may well persist for longer in western Scotland and Northern Ireland. Sunshine amounts look to be around normal for this time of year across Northern Ireland and Scotland but are likely to be somewhat above average in England and Wales."
...I still struggle with the placename 'Machynlleth'MA-hinth-lath apparently ;)
Dear Mr Dulates,Not sure I'll want to use this particular abbreviation :-[
Llandildoes becomes 'Dildoes.
...I still struggle with the placename 'Machynlleth'MA-hinth-lath apparently ;)
t's how it was said on a train, by the welsh-accented* train announcer....I still struggle with the placename 'Machynlleth'MA-hinth-lath apparently ;)
Ouch! Not even close.
Ma-cunt-lith
There... I've said it
Ma-cunt-lith
There... I've said it
When I worked in Birmingham we delivered to a customer in Machynlleth. Drivers used to call it Macuntlips ;D
You're all wrong. It's simply "Mac" :) And you're not even going there.
Now try Llanfihangel-yng-Ngwynfa.
I am helping at the finish and will be happy to assist riders in either Welsh or English.
Quand le cordier cordant veut corder la corde, pour la corde à corder, trois cordons il accorde. Si l'un des cordons de la corde décorde; le cordon décordant fait décorder la corde!
Wrth gwrs, os dych chi'n siarad dim ond saesneg, a chymrud y piso o'r enwau y drefydd Cymru, bydda i'n pissio yn eich paned chi...
I'm just going to talk LOUDLY in pigeon English and hope the locals get the gist of what I want.If you can still talk you've not ridden far enough yet... ;D
I'm just going to talk LOUDLY in pigeon English and hope the locals get the gist of what I want.
I'm just going to talk LOUDLY in pigeon English and hope the locals get the gist of what I want.
Did you need to do this on your recent DIY 1300 outside England? (This tactic worked well for me North of the border on LEL.)
Down in deepest Devon last weekend, now that was somewhere to speak loudly and slowly and hope they understood a few words of English. ;)
But maybe if you feed them, they won't be so hungry when we pass by....
Two weeks to go... Time to wake the dragon and go see just what I've created. Iddu, Mikek and Pete Turner(notp) due to arrive later. Off early tomorrow am - hopefully I'll make it back within 75hours :-\
Follow us on www.twitter.com/millecymru (http://www.twitter.com/millecymru) or via the blog on the event website.
Enjoy, sorry I can't make it along - too much on this w/e... If any of you have a major mechanical give me a blast and I'll fire up the neutral service vehicle. I think you have my number.
AC
Two weeks.
Nurse, I think I just did a little poop :-[
Two weeks.
Nurse, I think I just did a little poop :-[
It's all right for you. I have to do the Mille Milgia Italia 1600 3 weeks after it.
...MikeK arrived 1:45am, PeteT at 2:30am and iddu at 3:30.
...MikeK arrived 1:45am, PeteT at 2:30am and iddu at 3:30.
Jeepers. What chance mere mortals?
:-\ :-\ :-\
You guys really aren't filling me with confidence you know.
I hope you have a better day today.
Emma
...MikeK arrived 1:45am, PeteT at 2:30am and iddu at 3:30.
Jeepers. What chance mere mortals?
Looking at the Twitter posts, am I right in assuming it was a 7:30am start on Day 1?
H
Looking at the Twitter posts, am I right in assuming it was a 7:30am start on Day 1?
H
And were off!
6:27 AM Jul 9th via txt
...MikeK arrived 1:45am, PeteT at 2:30am and iddu at 3:30.
Jeepers. What chance mere mortals?
Well I wouldn't describe any of us as anything other than "mere mortals". I've had very few miles this year and nothing at all in the last month. Peter was doing his first ride over 400k. Iddu is making it hard(er) by riding fixed (having done gears back in December). The wind slowed us all down, and I knew at Llanberis that it wasn't going to get any better as we turned south. I reckon there would have been a good 300k of headwind on that first leg. It's not forecast to drop either until tomorrow night so it's not going to get much easier.
Still, we're exploring all the bail out options in advance ;D
Annoyingly, whilst we were getting soaked in Snowdonia it was a nice sunny day in Shropshire.
I did wonder if there was a timezone issue. I often see issues like that on websites. I guess JavaScript can give the ability to convert for local time.
My windows pc manages to show both 7.27AM and 10.27PM. Depending on which twitter page I look at. 10.27 is pacific time in the USA. Working for a San Jose based company helps one notice this. If I then log in to twitter it shows 6.27am. This will be adjusting for local time in the UK.
I did wonder if there was a timezone issue. I often see issues like that on websites. I guess JavaScript can give the ability to convert for local time.
My windows pc manages to show both 7.27AM and 10.27PM. Depending on which twitter page I look at. 10.27 is pacific time in the USA. Working for a San Jose based company helps one notice this. If I then log in to twitter it shows 6.27am. This will be adjusting for local time in the UK.
Yes, the extra hour makes more sense as I would have expected Mike Kelly to be coming in at around the 20 hour mark - if not quicker - although that headwind must have been tough.
It is good to hear that they are using all the headwind up so there won't be any left for us.
H
Annoyingly, whilst we were getting soaked in Snowdonia it was a nice sunny day in Shropshire.
Based on my ride yesterday that took in some of route, the area around Bala (and I presume further into the Snowdonia NP) was a tough prospect. Rain closed in over the peaks (Bwlch Y Groes in particular) which meant not just a grind up but also a bit of caution coming down. It was also fairly humid in places, making it difficult to get a decent sweat on.
Pete Turner left Llanwrytd around midnight, joined by Iddu, for the last leg.
Should be finished soon I guess.
H
Isn't it Pete Turnbull?
Isn't it Pete Turnbull?
Nope.
... Peter was doing his first ride over 400k...
I looked at the profile of day 1 yesterday. First time I've dared.
There is one scary-looking climb, the rest looks reasonable.
Presumably I'm wrong?
I was rather thrown as well but it cannot be the illustrious Willesden rider if... Peter was doing his first ride over 400k...
I looked at the profile of day 1 yesterday. First time I've dared.
There is one scary-looking climb, the rest looks reasonable.
Presumably I'm wrong?
I don't think you're wrong. It's known territory for a lot of Audaxers who done BCM, Irish Mail etc and as such most of the climbs will be familiar. I presume the one you're thinking of is Bwlch Oerddrws?
Which one?
The one after Dolgellau is the same as the BCM route.
S&C speeds suggest a 9.30pm finish on the first day, but like FY I will be riding with the next day in mind. So let's call it 2am with several daytime hours in cakeshops.. ;D
S&C speeds suggest a 9.30pm finish on the first day, but like FY I will be riding with the next day in mind. So let's call it 2am with several daytime hours in cakeshops.. ;D
???S&C speeds suggest a 9.30pm finish on the first day, but like FY I will be riding with the next day in mind. So let's call it 2am with several daytime hours in cakeshops.. ;D
Don't be upset if I wake you coming to bed, darling.
["S&C" ?]
2am is 18kph. I think I will aim for midnight.
Realistically it'll be midnight for me too I think. I'm taking a camera with me and I've got a lot of faffing to do.
Bollocks, you'll be fine If you don't overdo it in the first 80k like you usually do
DON'T PANIC
Simon (and anyone with less technical ability - there can't be many?):Which one?
The one after Dolgellau is the same as the BCM route.
I haven't got it in front of me. If a climb to cross foxes is the worst of day 1 then it's ok.
The tracklogs climb figure was about 7000m. So it's on a par with the bcm on day 1.
Perhaps I'll leave it to the end of the ride before I try it on....
The key message is:DON'T PANIC
and remember where your towel is.
Ah, but compare that simple profile with the more detailed reality. The section from Dolgellau to Llanwrtyd looks like it has two major climbs plus a couple of other bumps. It actually looks like this:-
...the second half of the stage is much easier (until you get to Newbridge anyway).Or to paraphrase another Adams character:
Is it coggable ;D
Which one?
The one after Dolgellau is the same as the BCM route.
I've just noticed that Pat packed after this leg:See prior...
7. St. David’s – Cilgerran (53km, 737m climb / 13.8m/km)
St David’s – Fishguard – Newport – Nevern – Cilgerran (577km)
So that's after the coastal "lowlands" stretch we've all been dreading ...
Hi John. I've used your gpx files as a basis to plot my own from. I'm assuming they are accurate?
Hi John. I've used your gpx files as a basis to plot my own from. I'm assuming they are accurate?
Make them carry on through the night like me & Iddu (who probably does not like to be considered as a domestique ;D)
Then trying to book train travel is turning out to be a 'mare. I think I might end up cycling from Birmingham at this rate. :/
Bike Hub sounds great !
Will they be fully stocked up on replacement legs and senses-of-humour for those that got broken in the previous couple of days?
Then trying to book train travel is turning out to be a 'mare. I think I might end up cycling from Birmingham at this rate. :/
Don't worry about booking your bike on the Brum-Shrewsbury trains. There's hardly ever a problem with getting on outside rush hour on either Arriva or London Midland.
Reservations don't mean anything anyway as no-one ever checks them.
S&C speeds suggest a 9.30pm finish on the first day, but like FY I will be riding with the next day in mind. So let's call it 2am with several daytime hours in cakeshops.. ;D
Don't be upset if I wake you coming to bed, darling.
In the true spirit of audax I'll be staying both nights in a hotel. ;D ;D ;D. :P
Can't you go without Babestation for a couple of days?
??? ???
Blimey, there's a whole different world out there that will forever remain a mystery if you've got a girlfriend ;D
I'm looking forward to meeting many of the well-known forum members at Upton Magna.
Could you all wear name tags please(your own name,not 80 odd Hummers' or Flatus')
I'll be greased up and ready to go.:hand:
I'll be greased up and ready to go.:hand:
John, about those detours to calm them down - manage to slip them in??? ;)
Booking online via the normally excellent East Coast website doesn't allow me to book just the reservations for the Cambridge-Brum leg. Guess what it does? Gives me an "application fatal error".
I'm looking forward to meeting many of the well-known forum members at Upton Magna.
Could you all wear name tags please(your own name,not 80 odd Hummers' or Flatus')
I'm looking forward to meeting many of the well-known forum members at Upton Magna.
Could you all wear name tags please(your own name,not 80 odd Hummers' or Flatus')
Maybe too much info for me (a novice Garmin Edge 705 user)? Presumably if I try to download the unfiltered routes via RouteYou it wont work due to too many points- I tried that. How do download the zipped and filtered ones to get the magic purple line on my unit? Any tips appreciated for the best procedure to follow from garmin 705 users would be gratefully appreciated!Hi John. I've used your gpx files as a basis to plot my own from. I'm assuming they are accurate?
Yes. The GPX files are derived from the online maps on the web site created by RouteYou, then split up into 1 track per stage and filtered down to <500 points / track. The road bits use follow road, and the non-road bits plotted out using Google satellite imagery and Streetview.
If you click on the RouteYou link next to the maps on the website it'll take you to RouteYou where you can download the original unfiltered tracks, transfer direct to Garmin, or download in Google Earth format (set to fly through if you want to be really scared!)
the AW train leaves Brum much later but gets to Shrewsbury only 4 minutes later; of course the system doesn't offer overtaken trains so you don't get offered that.
the AW train leaves Brum much later but gets to Shrewsbury only 4 minutes later; of course the system doesn't offer overtaken trains so you don't get offered that.
Click the "Show slower routes" link at the bottom of the "Show me" section and then the appropriate checkboxes (or just default to 'Via any permitted route'.
the AW train leaves Brum much later but gets to Shrewsbury only 4 minutes later; of course the system doesn't offer overtaken trains so you don't get offered that.
Click the "Show slower routes" link at the bottom of the "Show me" section and then the appropriate checkboxes (or just default to 'Via any permitted route'.
Makes no difference. It doesn't offer the train arriving at 14:19 just that arriving at 14:15.
Simon, if it helps, I had exactly the same problem booking from Oxfordshire - I resorted to the old human-being interface at the station. (Having checked there were bike spaces on the standalone leg).
Annoying, isn't it?
...when you put it like that, it does sound a pita ;)
Handling all of the niche requests, i.e. "people who want to book a journey spanning multiple train operators and get a bike reservation for the whole journey, but one of the operators/trains doesn't have bike reservations and so alternatives should be checked and offered etc" takes up the other 80% of the time...
There's even less incentive for GNER (as was) to fix the site when it's for a journey that involves no GNER trains at all. :)
when you put it like that, it does sound a pita ;)
if I got asked to do it i'd probably decide it was tremendously fiddly and try and brush it under the carpet ;)
I think the system ought to be able to find journeys that meet your criteria rather than forcing you to repeatedly go through the process until you randomly hit on one that works. The fact that the 14:15 option is the only offered journey and bombs out the website does not do wonders for one's blood pressure.It would be a big, yet simple enhancement to put the "Bike Space?" option on the main search. They'd have to serve a lot less pages if they did this.
I think the system ought to be able to find journeys that meet your criteria rather than forcing you to repeatedly go through the process until you randomly hit on one that works. The fact that the 14:15 option is the only offered journey and bombs out the website does not do wonders for one's blood pressure.It would be a big, yet simple enhancement to put the "Bike Space?" option on the main search. They'd have to serve a lot less pages if they did this.
As it is, they regard booking a bike like an optional perk you should be grateful for, like getting a table seat.
(Or seats in the quiet carriage if you have a young family - why do they do that?!?)
The booking/reservation system is centralised. I think the company specific booking sites (i.e. EastCoast's) just use an API into the central system, I'm not sure there's anything GNER/NEEC/EastCoast could do to fix it if they wanted to. It's probably outsourced too, which would explain why it looks like several other train operators booking/reservation websites.
routes/tracks for Edge 705 on Audaxes (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=33471.0)
Question about the drop bag for John: How big is too big?!
The info pack says one bag per rider - no problem - but as a minimum I'm going to have a sleeping bag, travel towel, a few toiletries and 3 days cycling kit. I'm also considering putting a newspaper in to dry my shoes out whilst I'm asleep. ;)
I'm up to a fair size rucsack to fit that lot in. Is that the sort of bag you were expecting from each rider?
Multiply that by 80, and put yourself in the position of having to transport all of that. It'd take multiple cars/trips.
Question about the drop bag for John: How big is too big?!
The info pack says one bag per rider - no problem - but as a minimum I'm going to have a sleeping bag, travel towel, a few toiletries and 3 days cycling kit. I'm also considering putting a newspaper in to dry my shoes out whilst I'm asleep. ;)
I'm up to a fair size rucsack to fit that lot in. Is that the sort of bag you were expecting from each rider?
I don't think it's terribly good form to put a sleeping bag in your drop bag.
Suggested items to include in your bag drop are:
* sleeping bag and/or blankets. You are also welcome to bring your own camp bed if you prefer.
Surely all you need for wandering around the control while your stuff dries is a pair of rain legs?
Multiply that by 80, and put yourself in the position of having to transport all of that. It'd take multiple cars/trips.
Or a single van hire given that there are also the camp beds and food, spares and all the other organisers bumpf to transport around.
The Route You site doesn't seem to display the actual maps any more.
As I have volunteered to help with the bag drop, I have followed the recent few posts with interest.
As I understand it, John has about 60 camp beds and the hall in Llanwrtyd Wells was specifically chosen to be able to accommodate them all so we should be able to offer everybody a space. *
He has hired a van to transfer it all so should be able to fit it all in ( if not, we have time to make a second trip)
I would suggest ensuring your label is easy to spot and is fixed on securely as I suspect we will load and unload the van with all the finesse of an airport baggage handler. :o
Finally, although I suspect most of you use dynamoes, how many riders intend to run rechargeables and may want to recharge their batteries, particularly before the final leg.
Putting a charger in your drop bag is no problem but the number of sockets could be.
Maybe a quick straw poll would indicate whether this is going to be problem.
*If I have got it wrong I'm sure John will correct me
Question about the drop bag for John: How big is too big?!
The info pack says one bag per rider - no problem - but as a minimum I'm going to have a sleeping bag, travel towel, a few toiletries and 3 days cycling kit. I'm also considering putting a newspaper in to dry my shoes out whilst I'm asleep. ;)
I'm up to a fair size rucsack to fit that lot in. Is that the sort of bag you were expecting from each rider?
Brill. Thanks John.
I'm not including my usual energy bars in the dropbag; I figure I can buy all the Magnums I need on route. ;D
For info, I was planning on packing a mummy sack (i.e. sleeping bag liner) amongst other things (such as change of clothes, hygiene stuff and spares). It's only a 600+400. No biggie ;)
Given all this talk of chaps wondering around in their chaps
Given all this talk of chaps wondering around in their chaps, I'm wondering if I should be booking alternative accom for us, so the hall can be kept as a Man Only environment?
(Only thing stopping me booking accom
I can read the f'ing routesheet. I can't see a cafe of same name on streetview.Follow past Artisan's and fork right into courtyard after about 150 metres
The google street view picture for the pendine control is rather loverly
Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=point+cafe+pendine&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=18.98626,39.506836&ie=UTF8&hq=point+cafe&hnear=Pendine,+Carmarthen,+Dyfed,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.742297,-4.560142&spn=0.009354,0.01929&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.742166,-4.559997&panoid=xwC9DI9q8FDmNyueACbuYg&cbp=12,203.64,,0,17.59)
Please let me know if you have any other questions and I will do my best to answer them. ;D
folded-in-half turned on.Retro technology is cool again, dude - keep up with the young'uns!
I am trying to find out if the Juniper SSG 520 series (running 6.2.0 ScreenOs) really can support AS Path Prepend and route redistribution through AS Access Lists and route maps or if this is just a falacy.
Given all this talk of chaps wondering around in their chaps, I'm wondering if I should be booking alternative accom for us, so the hall can be kept as a Man Only environment?
I am trying to find out if the Juniper SSG 520 series (running 6.2.0 ScreenOs) really can support AS Path Prepend and route redistribution through AS Access Lists and route maps or if this is just a falacy.
No wonder your bike is cracking up, if you're dragging one of these (http://www.juniper.net/shared/img/products/ssg-series/ssg520/ssg520-left-high.jpg) around with you. AS Path Prepend tips are here (http://www.juniper.net/techpubs/software/junos/junos70/swconfig70-policy/html/policy-actions-config2.html). It's better routing packets than maps, for sure.
Bloody Google.
UK Outlook for Thursday 22 Jul 2010 to Saturday 31 Jul 2010:
Unsettled at first with showers, some longer spells of rain in the north where it will be cool and windy. Further south, temperatures near normal. Drier conditions will spread across the UK from the west by the weekend with lighter winds in the north, although there could still be some showers in the southeast on Saturday. By Sunday, most areas dry, temperatures recovering to nearer normal in the north while the south becomes a little warmer. Into the following week, in the south, some rain possible but often dry and warm, perhaps very warm at times especially in the southeast. In the north, especially the far north, more changeable and windier at times with some spells of rain or showers and temperatures nearer normal.
QuoteUK Outlook for Thursday 22 Jul 2010 to Saturday 31 Jul 2010:
Unsettled at first with showers, some longer spells of rain in the north where it will be cool and windy. Further south, temperatures near normal. Drier conditions will spread across the UK from the west by the weekend with lighter winds in the north, although there could still be some showers in the southeast on Saturday. By Sunday, most areas dry, temperatures recovering to nearer normal in the north while the south becomes a little warmer. Into the following week, in the south, some rain possible but often dry and warm, perhaps very warm at times especially in the southeast. In the north, especially the far north, more changeable and windier at times with some spells of rain or showers and temperatures nearer normal.
Cool and windy during the summer = North Westerlies, that will make the first 200 interesting!
QuoteUK Outlook for Thursday 22 Jul 2010 to Saturday 31 Jul 2010:
Unsettled at first with showers, some longer spells of rain in the north where it will be cool and windy. Further south, temperatures near normal. Drier conditions will spread across the UK from the west by the weekend with lighter winds in the north, although there could still be some showers in the southeast on Saturday. By Sunday, most areas dry, temperatures recovering to nearer normal in the north while the south becomes a little warmer. Into the following week, in the south, some rain possible but often dry and warm, perhaps very warm at times especially in the southeast. In the north, especially the far north, more changeable and windier at times with some spells of rain or showers and temperatures nearer normal.
Cool and windy during the summer = North Westerlies, that will make the first 200 interesting!
Naismith model says day 1 (25kph on the flat, losing 3min per 100m climb and gaining 1.5min per 100m descent)Probably works on Day 1, but the descent part probably won't on Day 2!
Probably works on Day 1, but the descent part probably won't on Day 2!
Still, onedaycontrolpedal turn at a time ...
I feel a bit less under-prepared for this now after winning an Audax yesterday.
I feel a bit less under-prepared for this now after winning an Audax yesterday.
DIY?No, a calendar ride, but I do note your scepticism of my abilities. Lacking speed, I employed tactics and deceit. miniog could have taken it but he was unaware that it was a race. Gaggiaport might have won it but we 'let' him get a lead to Brecon and one of its slow cafes while miniog and I 'garage-pastied' it.
QuoteUK Outlook for Thursday 22 Jul 2010 to Saturday 31 Jul 2010:
Unsettled at first with showers, some longer spells of rain in the north where it will be cool and windy. Further south, temperatures near normal. Drier conditions will spread across the UK from the west by the weekend with lighter winds in the north, although there could still be some showers in the southeast on Saturday. By Sunday, most areas dry, temperatures recovering to nearer normal in the north while the south becomes a little warmer. Into the following week, in the south, some rain possible but often dry and warm, perhaps very warm at times especially in the southeast. In the north, especially the far north, more changeable and windier at times with some spells of rain or showers and temperatures nearer normal.
Cool and windy during the summer = North Westerlies, that will make the first 200 interesting!
Not to worry - I got lot of practice at riding into a headwind and driving rain over big hills on the Border Raid again this year. :)
And it's only 165km to the turn, then we get blown all the way to bed - for nearly 200km - (if you're right about the wind direction).
No, the trick is to keep looking until you get an answer you like. Accuweather (http://www.accuweather.com/ukie/forecast2.asp?partner=accuweather&traveler=0&postalcode=LD5%204TD&metric=1), for instance, suggests that things are going to be about perfect.
A deluge of biblical proportions according to met office
Wouldn't know. I made it up.
Wouldn't know. I made it up.
I know. ;)
I feel a bit less under-prepared for this now after winning an Audax yesterday.
Ludwig,
I always find rice pudding and some tinned fruit to be very welcome.
It also has the advantage of not being wasted if you get too much of it.
( just don't forget to take a tin opener.)
This ride really is happening this Friday isn’t it? :-\
is this this week or next week?
is this this week or next week?
Is what this week or next week?
H
is this this week or next week?
Is what this week or next week?
H
Yes.
H
yes.
[I might be giving some to Phil to take to LW, not sure if it's still in date ... ]It won't matter that much until it's about 50 years old will it - isn't it 'best before' on tins rather than 'use by'?
[I might be giving some to Phil to take to LW, not sure if it's still in date ... ]It won't matter that much until it's about 50 years old will it - isn't it 'best before' on tins rather than 'use by'?
There was some norty talk during the dark hours of last weekend's Seething 600, about posting a sweepstake here on how many finishers there will be :demon:. We only felt qualified to partake in such cruel thoughts after we had ascended 100km of Col du Headwind.
You are all nuts. Have a great ride. I shall be following tweeters and facebookers with typical Schaudenfraudian relish... :D
There was some norty talk during the dark hours of last weekend's Seething 600, about posting a sweepstake here on how many finishers there will be :demon:. We only felt qualified to partake in such cruel thoughts after we had ascended 100km of Col du Headwind.
You are all nuts. Have a great ride. I shall be following tweeters and facebookers with typical Schaudenfraudian relish... :D
[I might be giving some to Phil to take to LW, not sure if it's still in date ... ]It won't matter that much until it's about 50 years old will it - isn't it 'best before' on tins rather than 'use by'?
Please don't say that, I just want an excuse to get rid of the things!
There was some norty talk during the dark hours of last weekend's Seething 600, about posting a sweepstake here on how many finishers there will be :demon:. We only felt qualified to partake in such cruel thoughts after we had ascended 100km of Col du Headwind.
You are all nuts. Have a great ride. I shall be following tweeters and facebookers with typical Schaudenfraudian relish... :D
I would have put some money into the pot if asked - finishers will be 58% of starters.
Still, it wouldn't be an Audax if it didn't demand a degree of boldness, would it?
H
Victory is far from assured for any of us ...
Victory is far from assured for any of us ...
Having seen the state of your frame I'd say that's a fair comment. ;)
Probably assuring myself a DNF with this post, but a brilliant ride yesterday has both put my mind at ease about the weekend, and also topped up the suntan so I can pretend it was sunny in Wales.
Toby - if there's any confusion, just check the date of your train tickets. :P
is this this week or next week?
For some particularly* hardcore AUKs this event started yesterday............
For some particularly* hardcore AUKs this event started yesterday............
Indeed.
250k yesterday up to Worcester. I hope he has some energy left for the pub and his fellow wheelmen on Thursday.
H
I haven't felt so awed by an event in some time. The anticipation is getting to me - slightly hyper at the mere thought of the event. Roll on Monday morning...
my hotel doesn't have itv4
I haven't felt so awed by an event in some time. The anticipation is getting to me - slightly hyper at the mere thought of the event. Roll on Monday morning...
Another question for John: What's the Mawddach Trail like for 25mm tyres? I notice you take us along there after Barmouth bridge.
Another question for John: What's the Mawddach Trail like for 25mm tyres? I notice you take us along there after Barmouth bridge.
Another question for John: What's the Mawddach Trail like for 25mm tyres? I notice you take us along there after Barmouth bridge.
Anyone got any ideas for watching Thursdays tour stage? my hotel doesn't have itv4
Anyone got any ideas for watching Thursdays tour stage? my hotel doesn't have itv4
I believe The Honoourable Organiser knows the west Telford area (where a number of us are staying), so I was hoping he might know a sports pub in the vicinity. (Or ideally in Upton Magma!)
7pm highlights clash with the meal, but I think we can still make John's 9pm deadline?
I haven't felt so awed by an event in some time.
What I could really do with is a TV tuner for the laptop and a digital projector then I could show it on the big screen in the hall.<ahem> Bing bong ...
What are the opening and closing times for registration tomorrow night?
Tomorrow night.... sounds scary, doesn't it.
Is anyone else tempted to avoid the gratuitous hill just after Llanberis and just ride down the main road?
Is anyone else tempted to avoid the gratuitous hill just after Llanberis and just ride down the main road?
If I turn up before 5 is the camping field obvious?
or am I likely to upset the locals by pitching up on the village green by accident .
If I turn up before 5 is the camping field obvious?
or am I likely to upset the locals by pitching up on the village green by accident .
It's obvious, it's the grass to the right and behind the village hall.
Stick this into google maps: 52.708067,-2.663353
If I turn up before 5 is the camping field obvious?
or am I likely to upset the locals by pitching up on the village green by accident .
It's obvious, it's the grass to the right and behind the village hall.
Stick this into google maps: 52.708067,-2.663353
If I turn up before 5 is the camping field obvious?
or am I likely to upset the locals by pitching up on the village green by accident .
Menu is French Onion Soup, Veggy Chilli and Crumble with Custard.
John.
Anyone got any ideas for watching Thursdays tour stage? my hotel doesn't have itv4
... I can't wait for the pangs of jealousy once it starts...
No internet at the hall unless things of changes - it's quite a rural location. I would have thought your best bet would be a pub in Shrewsbury.
See you tomorrow, Joolz
Its thursday.
Do you not know what that means??
Its thursday.
Do you not know what that means??
I can't wait for the pangs of jealousy once it starts...
Is that the cycling equivilent of "Break a leg" ? :)
Good luck everyone. p*nct*r* lots ;D
I can't wait for the distinctive absence of pain coming from my underside and the pleasurable feeling of wakefulness present in my head each day when I wake up at normal hours, unlike those poor suckers.
While I was fiddling with the edge before I set off the insertion/removal of external power caused it to think it was new - so all settings lost. It also claimed it had no saved routes. Power cycling fixed that though. :)
I forgot my routesheet.
I think I will go to Maplin in Shrewsbury and get a spare USB connector.
Good luck indeed to all the maniacs who are riding this monster!
I'm looking forward to the ride reports that are posted a week or so after havingbeen discharged from hospitalrecovered.... :thumbsup:
Yes.Is that the cycling equivilent of "Break a leg" ? :)
Good luck everyone. p*nct*r* lots ;D
There is no failure except in no longer trying (Elbert Hubbard)I'm ushering at a friend's wedding on Saturday :p
Good luck. I'm doing a short ride.
Good luck. I'm doing a short ride.The National 24 hr TT perhaps?
crapcrapcrap
not boding brilliantly so far
- One glove has been eaten by washing machine
- ipod died this morning
- route is on the printer at home, there won't be time to laminate it
- forgot to order wine gums
- saddle is sagging and can't find brooks spanner
- bike has a different pedal on each side
hopefully things will improve from here on...
Job's a good'un
So who is the crazier?
24 hr. time triallists or MC'ers?
I was hoping to get up to the start to say hello and help (or maybe hinder) at the start control but after being knackered from last weekends 600 mile ride, I'm starting to get ready for the short ride with Ian H, so I won't make it without loosing some much needed shut eye.
So who is the crazier?
24 hr. time triallists or MC'ers?
MC'ers.
The pain only lasts 24 hours on a 24 hour TT
(Not even half way on the MC I bet)
We're here in Upton Magna waiting for you all.
1 day to go. Tomorrow we ride to Cymru...
We're here in Upton Magna waiting for you all.
1 day to go. Tomorrow we ride to Cymru...
;D ;D
Should he be forced to do a short plyometrics circuit before he's allowed anything at the sleep stop?
Blimey. First bunch at Llanberis (163km) by 12:15.bloody hell that's fast.
crapcrapcrap
crapcrapcrap
Bollocks.
Busted front wheel at the turn to bwlch y groes.
:(
crapcrapcrap
Bollocks.
Busted front wheel at the turn to bwlch y groes.
:(
I guess it's too late to offer to bring a spare to LLanwrtyd?
13 dead - Hen party at Cilgarren, so expect more ;-)
First rider thru Aber(800km) at 8:15!!!
First rider thru Aber(800km) at 8:15!!!
Aww - Things DNF :-(
Aww - Things DNF :-(
Started stage 2 this morning. Gave up after 20 mins and did stage 4 back to Upton Magna instead.:(
suffice to say I wasn't mentally prepared to spend that long on my bike
>sleepy
Still going :-)
I passed Peter Simon (I was driving) about 95km from the finish. He was climbing a small ascent and looked very pained. He rode through the first night, and slept a few hours on the second. What a superstar.
At Aberystywth with Malvolio, who has just pointed out another rider who has all his pubes poking out of the top of his shorts
.
Feeling a bit disappointed after our first ever DNF. On the plus side, we definitely had broken the back of day 2 and felt sure we'd be able to make a good attempt at day 3 when disaster struck, but in some ways that just adds to the frustration!
Back, after a long night and two sleeps en route. That was a tough three days, but summat else. Phew. :o
14 now - Hummers is here! :thumbsup:
PaulD and Toby just arrived.
tweet says 53 finishers
Well done everyone who finished, and commiserations to those who didn't. I've enjoyed following your progress. Sounds like a true epic.
The one person who deserves a medal is UNdulates. I think everyone was too knackered this morning to adequately express their gratitude. It was a masterpiece of route planning and organisation. I can't think of anything that I would have included that wasn't there. The helpers were superb, and the catering spot on. Really nice to see cheery familiar faces, such as Phil d, tewdric and Ludwig. Great to meet jogler and basil. Ludwig's pub control was hilarious.
The one person who deserves a medal is UNdulates. I think everyone was too knackered this morning to adequately express their gratitude. It was a masterpiece of route planning and organisation. I can't think of anything that I would have included that wasn't there.
I want to do this. In fact part of me would be more excited about riding this next year than doing PBP. Although I'm not sure I could fit two big rides like this into my holiday plans.
Congratulations to all involved, especially the organisers!
I think this was probably the best organised Audax ride I've ever entered.
My ride was the usual mixture of the good, the bad and the stupid, the good - most of the weekend, especially the Tregaran mountain toad and the approach to Elan, the bad - desperation for a No 2 decending Elan and the gravel road at the bottom, tiedness at the end of day 1, the stupid - going the wrong way after the control on the last day for an extra 28k round trip despite having ridden the intended road twice in the weekend.
I've watched this event being planned, and I'm aware just how much work John has put in. His drive and determination to make this a special occasion have been inspiring. He looked as knackered as the riders on Saturday night.
At the end John gave me a medal
I think you can see he looks more tired than I am.
... and Mattc for the loan of his pliers to cut my shoe off in Tregaron :-X??? :o
The one person who deserves a medal is UNdulates.And all the helpers. It's been said but they were all absolutely fantastic. I was privileged to have such a dedicated and talented crew. It made my life so much easier and whilst it may have been my name on the top of the event; it would not have been possible without them. The whole event for once went as smoothly behind the scenes as it appeared to on the surface.
Despite the trials, tribulations & good crop of 1000-yard stares, you were all "excellent to each other"[/li][/list]+1. I was amazed by the lack of general tetchiness that usually comes with the territory. Everyone behaved in an exemplary manner. The hall was left in a much cleaner state than we expected, and talking to the lady who lives in the houses next to the hall whilst buying sausages in the butchers on Saturday afternoon she'd been blissfully unaware of all the cyclists trailing in and out during the night.
If John can ever be pursuaded to run this again, my entry will be in early.It's too soon to say for definite, I'll wait for the dust to settle. It's far too much work to do every year though. I have some ideas in mind for the next time, and it's likely there will be a permanent version available (I have a lot of left over medals to shift). Watch this space...
Who is this? I rode with him quite a bit. He has an Australian accent, rides an old Dave Lloyd with clips and straps and wears trainers and tracksuit leggings"Nick", I think. rode with him at various points. A kiwi, repatriated back to England, I believe. Very clean, very blue trainers!
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/4833251563_0bf6659cac_b_d.jpg
"Nick", I think.
<snip>
And the most important ingredient - Toby's company the whole way round. Banter, bitching about other people, laffing so hard on climbs we can't pedal, eating takeaways, laffing at me about my disintegrating bike, me laffing at him as he'd forgotten to bring the gps tracks for stages 12 and 13 (why would you check something unimportant like that anyway?!) and towing me along when I'm feeling a bit average.
</snip>
Brevet 5000. This is a major challenge which is achieved only by very experienced randonneurs. In a four-year period, ride an End-to-End OR a Paris-Brest-Paris, a 200, 300, 400, 600 and 1000, a 24 hour team event, plus other rides to top up to 5000km.
Margaret is right: you do make a lovely couple!
:-*
H
- Toby taking a break from describing how much he needed to use the Elan Valley dam toilets in order to free a sheep which we had scared and got stuck in the fence
ThreesomeQuote- Toby taking a break from describing how much he needed to use the Elan Valley dam toilets in order to free a sheep which we had scared and got stuck in the fence
Avoids temptation to say "gone native"
- The banter with Nuncio at the numerous controls and times on the road we saw him. He was stung on his right arm before the ride and had a massive reaction, but there was never any question about quitting, just banter about him growing new body parts as the ride progressed (be worried if a photo appears on here)
Margaret is right: you do make a lovely couple!
Quote- Toby taking a break from describing how much he needed to use the Elan Valley dam toilets in order to free a sheep which we had scared and got stuck in the fence
Avoids temptation to say "gone native"
The truth is Toby was looking for a sheep that hadn't been sheared as in case the toilets weren't open; he hadn't got any paper with him. :sick: No joke this was pretty much the entire conversation from Cymystwyth onwards.
Quote- Toby taking a break from describing how much he needed to use the Elan Valley dam toilets in order to free a sheep which we had scared and got stuck in the fence
Avoids temptation to say "gone native"
The truth is Toby was looking for a sheep that hadn't been sheared as in case the toilets weren't open; he hadn't got any paper with him. :sick: No joke this was pretty much the entire conversation from Cymystwyth onwards.
btw i did ride along with these two from st davids for quite a while
The conversation wasn't entirely scatological at that point and they are pretty good company imho
I did lose them on a descent but this wasn't due to madness on their part
When I caught them many miles later they split up soon after, they aren't joined at the hip
I had another sting, on my bottom, on that horrible gravelly road between the Elan reservoirs and Llanwrthwl on Sunday.
I had another sting, on my bottom, on that horrible gravelly road between the Elan reservoirs and Llanwrthwl on Sunday.
That road was obviously the place for animals to lurk, ready to pounce on unsuspecting audaxers. I was attacked by a vicious pack of 6 rat-sized dogs (pekinese, I think) who surrounded me, yapping away and occasionally darting in to nip at my ankles. The owner explained it away by saying "they don't like cyclists - it's the sound of the brakes".
I had another sting, on my bottom, on that horrible gravelly road between the Elan reservoirs and Llanwrthwl on Sunday.
That road was obviously the place for animals to lurk, ready to pounce on unsuspecting audaxers. I was attacked by a vicious pack of 6 rat-sized dogs (pekinese, I think) who surrounded me, yapping away and occasionally darting in to nip at my ankles. The owner explained it away by saying "they don't like cyclists - it's the sound of the brakes".
How many of them did you run over?
Toby and I were of the opinion we'd had a pretty large amount of time off the bike during this ride, although the amount of genuine sleep we had was small.
Does 48 1/2 hours moving time in 73 hours but only 8 hours sleep sound a bit like we had too many bacon rolls and ice creams? ;D
Does 48 1/2 hours moving time in 73 hours but only 8 hours sleep sound a bit like we had too many bacon rolls and ice creams? ;D
My (very long, probably very dull) ride report is over on the Irish forum (http://boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=67144111#post67144111). Includes a certain amount of detail for the local audience that you all know already.Top write-up Eoghan - I "LOL"ed.
This was a great event, thank you John for organising it!
to sum it up I have learned that:
1- It will take me a lifetime of audaxing to discover all the pretty bits of Wales.
2- After 24hours of climbing Welsh hills, speaking English is hard work - apologies to anyone who had to communicate with me!
3- I need to enter PBP to establish if the same happens to my French
4- Shame I hadn't time to prepare better!
5- Doing as many 300s as possible is the best preparation for me - It worked very well for LEL and I will do this for PBP.
6- This was an extraordinary ride I may even enter it again!
7- People of my strength on the flat will be slower than me in the hills
8- People of my strength in the hills will drop me on the flat.
9- My stomach is my worst enemy.
And i would like to say thank you to:
10- Thank you John
11- Thank you to the things for pulling the 6.15 starters to the 1st control at 35 kph and helping me with my jammed chain Sunday eve.
12- Thank you to all helpers for delivering an event of such a high standard.
And commiserations to the non finishers including:
13- Julian, I really wanted you to finish but you weren't looking great and you probably took the right decision.
14- The things, you had just cracked the toughest bit...
Not long back home. Essex has never seemed so flat!
I knew when I rashly entered this madness I would be biting off an awful lot to chew, but of course I'd be a stone lighter and a whole lot fitter by the time of the event wouldn't I. Which of course never happened.
I didn't study the route much in advance because every time I opened the files they scared me to death so I stopped looking. I remember it being unusually quiet in the bunch at the village hall gate at 6.00 a.m. so I guess I wasn't the only one feeling a degree of apprehension!
My recollections of the ride are more blurred and confused than usual, mainly due to the Welsh language - I always seemed to be in "Llan....." something. I recall that every time I dragged my gaze up off the tarmac all I could see was looming mountains.
I'd not really expected to get through the first day within the time limit and had already steeled myself to accepting I'd have to pack but that it would be good to be able to say that I'd given it a go. But I did manage to get around in time to get an hour’s kip and consequently I felt I couldn't quit until I was genuinely out of time and although I was always more or less on the limit it wasn't until after Aberystwyth that I realised just how hard it was going to be to hold the necessary pace. Somewhere on the road after turning into the valley after Devil's Bridge I meet up with NeilB and another rider (sorry, didn't get a name) and their companionship and pace making helped me to raise my game sufficiently. I got detached from them during a mad episode in the gravel strewn lanes after Elan Village, when we'd got caught and were being chased by two locals driving fire-breathing tractors!
I grovelled into Llanwrtyd Wells and prepared for the final leg knowing I had no time to spare for any sleep. Setting off in the night as Lanterne Rouge or so I thought, I was making steady progress north when I spied bobbing lights astern. These didn't get any closer and then I had a Garmin moment and stupidly followed its recommendation to shortcut the official route after Llanblister, on the approach to Llanbadarn Fynydd. This of course was a huge mistake, as it took me down a narrow, steep lane which to compound things, turned out to be wholly blocked by road works! By the time I'd retraced and made it to the Llanbadarn Fynydd control, I was definitely the last on the road as they packed up and shut the hall around me, although not before supplying very welcome beans on toast. The bobbing lights turned out to be Mattc and NeilB who had made it to the control before me and who then accompanied me on the last 60+km.
When we left the control, I calculated we'd need three hours of 20kph overall average to get in by 9 a.m. and I knew that in my state, over that terrain, that was going to be a push. And so it turned out to be. At some time along the way, I realised I was the only one of the three of us who'd started at 6 a.m. on Friday. So I had to give it all I could and go off the front in a mad dash for the line.
Upton Magna seemed to have disappeared off the face of the earth, it took so long coming, but finally those lovely words came up on the local signposts and I rolled into the finish with a bare seven minutes in hand, the closest I've been to finishing out of time on an Audax! You can imagine how it felt getting the lovely medal from John and I dread to think how I'd have felt if I'd finished ten minutes later!
I can only endorse the general views expressed by others and say that this was a fantastic event, over brilliant country, with exemplary organisation and I know I shall count it at the top of my personal palmares list, above even PBP and LEL, for a very long time. Many, many thanks to John and his great team. However, I did say to John at the finish that if he ever runs it again and by some strange chance he receives an entry from me, he is to bin the entry form and spend the fee on beer!
Yup, that was one of the highlights! In fact, at the point that I baled out of that comedy, I had to get another ibruprofen fix because my knees were screaming and at the same time my GPS had locked up. I pulled up sharpish at a field entrance and promptly half fell into the hedge, much to the amusement of the following tractor driver!Not long back home. Essex has never seemed so flat!................... However, I did say to John at the finish that if he ever runs it again and by some strange chance he receives an entry from me, he is to bin the entry form and spend the fee on beer!
That was me! :) That was quite a surreal 10 minutes, the three of us in the fast fading light in the middle of a tractor sandwich in tiny little lanes! In fact, it had the effect of splitting us all up, cos NeilB also went off route after I dashed of the front refusing to pull over for the tractor (I CAN beat it up the hill, I CAN! ;D). I then didn;t see Neil until the next control.
Yup, that was one of the highlights! In fact, at the point that I baled out of that comedy, I had to get another ibruprofen fix because my knees were screaming and at the same time my GPS had locked up. I pulled up sharpish at a field entrance and promptly half fell into the hedge, much to the amusement of the following tractor driver!Not long back home. Essex has never seemed so flat!................... However, I did say to John at the finish that if he ever runs it again and by some strange chance he receives an entry from me, he is to bin the entry form and spend the fee on beer!
That was me! :) That was quite a surreal 10 minutes, the three of us in the fast fading light in the middle of a tractor sandwich in tiny little lanes! In fact, it had the effect of splitting us all up, cos NeilB also went off route after I dashed of the front refusing to pull over for the tractor (I CAN beat it up the hill, I CAN! ;D). I then didn;t see Neil until the next control.
After restoring the technology and continuing at a more reasonable (for me) pace, I did come across Neil again (Neil V I'm now told, rather than Neil B as I'd misheard) who'd been roaming around looking for you!
Many thanks for the tow and encouragement, especially across the intimidating Elan Valley.
7) Iddu and Von Broad's incredible snoring during our midday two hour sleep.
I met loads and loads of peeps off the forum. No idea who any of you were. :-[
Sorry, I've only just realized who you were. I sort of recognized you but it it was at times when I was moments from sleep or had just woken up, so things weren't registering very well.Likewise. ;D
Does 48 1/2 hours moving time in 73 hours but only 8 hours sleep sound a bit like we had too many bacon rolls and ice creams? ;DI've put on 3 kgs during this ride ? ? ? ?
Sorry, I've only just realized who you were. I sort of recognized you but it it was at times when I was moments from sleep or had just woken up, so things weren't registering very well.
This was a great event, thank you John for organising it!
to sum it up I have learned that:
1- It will take me a lifetime of audaxing to discover all the pretty bits of Wales.
2- After 24hours of climbing Welsh hills, speaking English is hard work - apologies to anyone who had to communicate with me!
3- I need to enter PBP to establish if the same happens to my French
4- Shame I hadn't time to prepare better!
5- Doing as many 300s as possible is the best preparation for me - It worked very well for LEL and I will do this for PBP.
6- This was an extraordinary ride I may even enter it again!
7- People of my strength on the flat will be slower than me in the hills
8- People of my strength in the hills will drop me on the flat.
9- My stomach is my worst enemy.
And i would like to say thank you to:
10- Thank you John
11- Thank you to the things for pulling the 6.15 starters to the 1st control at 35 kph and helping me with my jammed chain Sunday eve.
12- Thank you to all helpers for delivering an event of such a high standard.
And commiserations to the non finishers including:
13- Julian, I really wanted you to finish but you weren't looking great and you probably took the right decision.
14- The things, you had just cracked the toughest bit...
Oh, so you're Panoramix ::-)
Thanks for your company on Saturday and at times on the other days :thumbsup:
Even the power houses were heard using words like 'gratuitous' after returning to LLanwrtyd Wells on occasions :-)
S'a funny thing. I'm sworn to Fixed Gear this year, and I couldn't contemplate this ride on fixed gear. Only a few in AUK could, and I suspect they were on the ride, or tested it beforehand.
But I cling to the slender hope that I might manage it one day with a full set of gears. I grovelled my way round the Midlander 300 last year with Scottlington - and he has heroically tamed the dragon this time around, so I'm going to hang on to that and may well try it next time.
I want to hear more about this toad and why was it so good ;DMy ride was the usual mixture of the good, the bad and the stupid, the good - most of the weekend, especially the Tregaran mountain toad [...]
Oh, so you're Panoramix ::-)
Thanks for your company on Saturday and at times on the other days :thumbsup:
Oh, so you're Panoramix ::-)
Thanks for your company on Saturday and at times on the other days :thumbsup:
And you are Martin or Brian?
S'a funny thing. I'm sworn to Fixed Gear this year, and I couldn't contemplate this ride on fixed gear. Only a few in AUK could, and I suspect they were on the ride, or tested it beforehand.
But I cling to the slender hope that I might manage it one day with a full set of gears. I grovelled my way round the Midlander 300 last year with Scottlington - and he has heroically tamed the dragon this time around, so I'm going to hang on to that and may well try it next time.
BCM '11?
I want to hear more about this toad and why was it so good ;DMy ride was the usual mixture of the good, the bad and the stupid, the good - most of the weekend, especially the Tregaran mountain toad [...]
The Tregaron Mountain Toad
Little is known about the Tregaron Mountain Toad (bufo cambriamontana) as it is a solitary and rather shy species. It is thought to share common ancestry with the Giant Swiss Road Toad (http://www.soi.city.ac.uk/~jwo/acf/amphibienschutz.jpg) (bufo titanhelvetia) and the fearsome North American Undertoad (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_World_According_to_Garp) (bufo garpus). The size of a fully grown adult is not known with any certainty due to poor weather conditions and the frequent near exhaustion and unreliability of mind of most who report seeing it. Estimates range from 15cm to several 10s of metres.
What is known is two rather unusual habits that distinguish it from its North American and Swiss cousins. Within its native mountain environment the toad is known to gather small rocks and in an almost ritual like manner, carefully crush them into small gravel like pieces. These, it distributes in small piles along the narrow roadways that cross the area. In particularly active seasons, it is known to be able to cover almost the entire roadway for several kilometres.
But perhaps the most unusual behaviour exhibited by bufo cambriamontana is the creation of its distinctive scarlet marker towers. Over a period of several years a solitary toad will build a structure over 2m tall, usually in an isolated hollow. Coloured red, due to special pigment glands in its hind legs, this structure bears a remarkable resemblance to a GPO telephone box, once common in the 20th century. Indeed, from a distance it is often indistinguishable from a functioning phone box, the only difference being its complete isolation from any human habitation. Scientists have speculated as to the function of these constructions, the most widely accepted hypothesis being some form of territorial or wayfinding marker. However, others have suggested it affords shelter, possibly to its young, during particularly inclement weather conditions.
Another blog entry
Mille Cymru: with Paul and Toby « Audaxing (http://audaxing.wordpress.com/2010/07/29/mille-cymru-with-paul-and-toby/)
Anyone who has ever wondered what it might be like to ride over a mountain with Paul and Toby in the middle of the night should read this. So probably a limited audience ;D
I'd like to point out that Vorsprung seemed happier than he's letting on about both the Chinese and the late night conversation.
Does anyone know if the other chap on fixed finished?
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.
:o So Dr. Volio didn't finish?
Didn't we see him riding the wrong way, possibly somewhere nr Brecon?Does anyone know if the other chap on fixed finished?
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.
Didn't we see him riding the wrong way, possibly somewhere nr Brecon?Does anyone know if the other chap on fixed finished?
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.
[Typical fixer, I was leapfrogging him the whole event. Very 'dour' expression from the start, but pretty cheerful! Somewhere before StDavids he said "I must thank John for arranging this lovely walking holiday".]
It was very strange to be riding an event with so few fixies.
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.
:o So Dr. Volio didn't finish?
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.
:o So Dr. Volio didn't finish?
Try making different assumptions, see if you come to the same conclusion. ;)
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.
:o So Dr. Volio didn't finish?
He was riding gears, which apparently was "so much easier", even though he seemed to be going so much slower ;D ;D
Dr Volio? Gears?
:o
I feel fai.....
*thud*
I am now astonished that I failed to calculate that from 8am Sunday I could have had 4 hours rest at LW and still have had 23.5 hours ( AUK times from 0630 start) remaining for the remaining 350k - ample. Phil Dyson did attempt to explain my options to me but I cut him short which was both rude and stupid. So MC1K is unfinished business for me. >:("ample"? Sounds quite tough to me. For me anyway, especially riding it all alone in probability. Lorra hills, another night on the road ...
There was a Gareth Evans from Australia. With a name like that it might have been a homecoming for him
I rode - briefly - with a chap from Oz. He was wearing various Audax Australia and Audax Victoria tops etc. We bumped into him a few times over the course of day 1 and 2. The last time I saw him was on the climb leaving Pendine. Does anyone know who he is and whether he finished? I could be wrong (probably am) but I think his name was Greg...Gareth Evans, and no he packed somewhere around Tenby, got a train back to Shrewsbury.
One other rider packed on Sunday morning after a very late return to Llanwrtyd. Everyone who set off on Sunday morning for the last leg made it though. Whilst in terms of overall time, yes you may have had 25 hours left (27 if you weren't bothered with BRM validation) to do the last leg, it's difficult make rational decisions when you've had that little sleep. Strictly speaking, there's also the intermediate control times to consider...I am now astonished that I failed to calculate that from 8am Sunday I could have had 4 hours rest at LW and still have had 23.5 hours ( AUK times from 0630 start) remaining for the remaining 350k - ample. Phil Dyson did attempt to explain my options to me but I cut him short which was both rude and stupid. So MC1K is unfinished business for me. >:("ample"? Sounds quite tough to me. For me anyway, especially riding it all alone in probability. Lorra hills, another night on the road ...
I don't know your abilities, but you may have made the right call.
Your ride was what I expected myself - to get back late on Day2 and call it a day. I don't think anyone packed on day 3 - you might have been the latest DNF?
If you mean Mike (on the Langster), the answer is Yes. He was the only one to finished on fixed.Didn't we see him riding the wrong way, possibly somewhere nr Brecon?
I am now astonished that I failed to calculate that from 8am Sunday I could have had 4 hours rest at LW and still have had 23.5 hours ( AUK times from 0630 start) remaining for the remaining 350k - ample. Phil Dyson did attempt to explain my options to me but I cut him short which was both rude and stupid. So MC1K is unfinished business for me. >:(I didn't think you rude at all. One makes generous allowances for tired riders, of which there were plenty!
I don't think anyone packed on day 3 - you might have been the last DNF?Correct on both counts. Roy Bishop came in just before John, and also packed at that point.
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
You'll need to view the PDF version (http://www.soi.city.ac.uk/~jwo/acf/mcRideReport.pdf) to read the text.
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
Truely excellent Jo - does the thickness of the line indicate the speed/gradient? How, technically have you done this? I think I might print and frame it!
Truely excellent Jo - does the thickness of the line indicate the speed/gradient? How, technically have you done this? I think I might print and frame it!
Altitude. (At least I think it is, cos he's done similar for other events.)
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
How disappointing.
I read that as choreography, and was expecting a ride report delivered through the medium of dance.
under LDWA rules you're not allowed to stop at any control longer than 2 hours or you're disqualified.
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
Wow, that's really cool. Well original.
Anyone who thinks AUK limits are tough on getting some sleep in should try long distance walking - under LDWA rules you're not allowed to stop at any control longer than 2 hours or you're disqualified.
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
How disappointing.
I read that as choreography, and was expecting a ride report delivered through the medium of dance.
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
P.S. Did Tim S (from Manc) finish? I rode the S&C 400 with him (he was on fixed) and he was a little worried...
My ride report delivered through the medium of cartography:
(http://www.soi.city.ac.uk/~jwo/acf/mcRideReport.jpg)
You'll need to view the PDF version (http://www.soi.city.ac.uk/~jwo/acf/mcRideReport.pdf) to read the text.
Dr Volio? Gears?
Photos from Tim Wainwright on Flickr
http://www.flickr.com/photos/timwainwright/sets/72157624513245215/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/timwainwright/sets/72157624513245215/)
and from Ben Proctor
http://www.flickr.com/photos/likeaword/collections/72157624584880806/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/likeaword/collections/72157624584880806/)
Look at him! He's loving it!Dr Volio? Gears?
:facepalm: :(
Dr Volio? Gears?
:facepalm: :(
;) ;D
Look at him! He's loving it!
Not being able to compete with Jo, I have done my ride report in French:
Mille Cymru - Page 4 (http://parisbrestparis2007.actifforum.com/1000-kms-f40/mille-cymru-t1877-44.htm)
I hated riding gears.
Look at him! He's loving it!
I hated riding gears. I loved the event.
I think it was on the last day, after Llandovery and up to llianne brianne reservoir
Where's this (http://images56.fotki.com/v713/photos/6/1033456/8936159/1007mc1k050-vi.jpg)?
Where's this (http://images56.fotki.com/v713/photos/6/1033456/8936159/1007mc1k050-vi.jpg)?
It's here:
Google Maps (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=abergwesyn&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=19.385722,39.506836&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Abergwesyn,+Llanwrtyd,+Powys,+United+Kingdom&ll=52.128852,-3.735695&spn=0.078403,0.219727&z=13&layer=c&cbll=52.12876,-3.735522&panoid=8uKFJ602FhfzcDqrHwYIOQ&cbp=12,99.49,,0,-4.63)
Not being able to compete with Jo, I have done my ride report in French:
Mille Cymru - Page 4 (http://parisbrestparis2007.actifforum.com/1000-kms-f40/mille-cymru-t1877-44.htm)
CR fort intéressant avec de bonnes photos.
Maintenant je sais pourquoi tu avais l'air si fragile lorsque je t'ai vu après le petit-déjeuner à l’arrivée mais j'ai du mal à comprendre pourquoi le druide n'a pas pu se faire une potion magique contre le mal de ventre et ses effets graves. ;)
just joined YACF, this is my first post...Great photos - see you on a Kingston Wheelers ride soon. Joining YACF, does this mean you will be riding even more audaxes in future ;D
Where's this (http://images56.fotki.com/v713/photos/6/1033456/8936159/1007mc1k050-vi.jpg)?
My current forecast is for 80 riders.
I predict 46 finishers. Anybody else care to have a guesstimate?
tweet says 53 finishers
1. The pleasure of meeting up again with people I have been bumping into at events over the last 4 years
2. The pleasure of meeting people I don't know who bravely start the conversation "You must be Hummers..."
3. Seeing people who started this Audax malarky around the same time as me also taking part in this event.
4. A profusion of comedy moments, shits and giggles.
5. Seeing Snowdon (a rare occurence).
6. The ride around the reservoir afer the first control, plus the service at the first control
7. The route; a subtle blend of superb scenery, exhilerating descents and sadism
8. The design of the event with those loops back to Llanworthit with the showers, great food and consistent welcome
9. Did I mention the scenery?
...
30. Perfect weather, throwing into relief how things must have been a couple of weeks ago.
H
The brevet card dropped through the door today :thumbsup:
Thanks again to John & all the helpers. I really appreciate it when an organiser supplies a write-up of the event with the brevet card, it brings back some happy memories :)
It was a nice touch to include thequittersDNFs - they usually disappear into the void of AUK records.