Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: Aidan on 22 January, 2016, 08:09:29 am

Title: [HAMR] Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Aidan on 22 January, 2016, 08:09:29 am
This answers the questions about the last day or two. A shame but not totally unexpected.

Much respect for Steve


Quote
With great sadness, Steve Abraham has made the decision to end his second attempt on the Highest Annual Mileage World Record.
 
Steve's aim has always been to break the record (he didn’t want to come second, or third). After careful consideration of his current performance - and after lengthy discussions with the support team - Steve decided on Thursday 21 January 2016 that he will officially withdraw from his ongoing attempt on the Highest Annual Mileage Record.
 
As you can imagine, the decision to end this attempt has not been an easy one. Steve would like to thank you all for your incredible support. For now he will undertake a well earned period of rest and recovery, before deciding on any plans for the future.

Videos from Steve
Short video announcing withdrawal  https://youtu.be/OHSjqrpDNhE

Longer video with extended Q&A  https://youtu.be/x9agB46ENa8
/quote]
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Charlie Boy on 22 January, 2016, 08:11:21 am
He's still a legend.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: JohnR on 22 January, 2016, 08:14:14 am
Rest well Steve, Recuperate, reflect on your superb acheivement and take time to decide where to go from here.

I for one think you have made a more courageous and correct decision at this point.

Massive respect, Well Done!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: JamesBradbury on 22 January, 2016, 08:14:48 am
Yes, a shame, but I've no doubt it was the right decision made with careful thought.

I imagine that, mentally, this is the hardest part of such a challenge. Much respect to Steve for a brave attempt.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: loadsabikes on 22 January, 2016, 08:15:24 am
Steve has nothing to reproach himself for.
An awe inspiring effort against fearsome odds.
Well done Steve and best wishes for the future whatever it may bring.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Wowbagger on 22 January, 2016, 08:18:06 am
Steve, you are indeed a legend. Commiserations, mate. You deserve a rest.

PS I'm organising a bike ride with tea room & pub tomorrow. Start at Kelvedon Station at 9.30. Just saying.  :P
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: peliroja on 22 January, 2016, 08:19:30 am
Respect, Steve. The bike will always be there.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 January, 2016, 08:22:23 am
Steve has my great respect for everything he's done.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: marcusjb on 22 January, 2016, 08:24:09 am
Steve, my enormous respect for you is hugely amplified by everything you have achieved over the past year and a bit.

You have inspired countless others to try and find their own personal limits.  You have inspired me and kept me riding in some fecking awful weather ("well if Steve can't give up and he's got twice as far to ride as me today, then I can't give up"), thanks for that, I think! ;)

You've kick-started a real resurgence of interest in long-distance competition, and whatever happens, that will always remain true.

Take care of yourself, recuperate (do some touring somewhere warm in few weeks?), and whatever you think about doing next, I wish you the very best in it and, if I can support you in that, then I will always try my best to do so.

More than ever, if you need my/our support, reach out and ask for it.  You will have a lot to work through and decompress from. If you need anything, then do not be afraid to ask for it.

See you out on the road sometime soon I hope.

Chapeau is not a big enough compliment, but for the moment it will have to do until I see you next and get a chance to shake your hand and congratulate you in person my friend.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: jamesld8 on 22 January, 2016, 08:24:27 am
Superb effort and bravery  :thumbsup: by Steve and in a way sad to hear this but there almost seemed to be an inevitability to this over last few weeks even months as mileage was dropping repeatedly below `required`. So all praise and kudos to Steve for an amazing effort and I wish him the very best  for a recovery time and whatever else comes his way.
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However I am very disappointed at the way the whole attempt has been overshadowed / marred by what seems to be some  poor team members  with complete lack it appears on their part to recognise value of positive publicity, keeping donors informed and meaningful updates. Compare how Alicia kept FB going with informative and amusing updates to what didn`t get communicated by the team, even up to the last FB of `Steve`s OK ` a couple of days ago. Whilst this is a private individuals attempt on the HAMR it also draws upon public donations to support it and for that very reason the team should have recognised a duty of care to donors to maintain a high publicity information stream. Enough said,
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: orraloon on 22 January, 2016, 08:24:52 am
Much respect Steve.  It was a helluva challenge and you gave it your all.  Chapeau.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 January, 2016, 08:26:14 am
Well done Steve. Cracking effort.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: andyoxon on 22 January, 2016, 08:28:32 am
All the best Steve as you rest up; big congrats for everything you've done.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: andrew531 on 22 January, 2016, 08:31:21 am
Steve you have captured the imagination of many a rider over the last year or so. Thanks for giving us a vicarious insight into ultra cycling. All the very best for the future. Don't let anyone tell you that you just didn't do enough. You've succeeded and achieved an awful lot this year.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: crowriver on 22 January, 2016, 08:31:42 am
Indeed sad.

A heroic effort through some very challenging weather conditions.

All the best for future endeavours Steve.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: jsabine on 22 January, 2016, 08:32:13 am
Congratulations to Steve for the massive achievement of riding further in a year than anyone but three others ever, for the astonishing determination of both continuing following a broken ankle, and of restarting with the concurrent attempt, and of course for actually getting validation options in place that have triggered this resurgence in interest in the year records.

Chapeau, truly.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Jack_P on 22 January, 2016, 08:32:26 am
Massive respect and glad you ended it safe and well.
Still a staggering modern times Year mileage record for UK riding that will last for many years.

Enjoy the rest and more relaxed meals.

Still time to talk to the Transcontinental organisers and go after something else you've shown interest in.
Sure they'd love to have you
Now that would be fun watching.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Robh on 22 January, 2016, 08:33:20 am
Well done Steve, I hope you don't beat yourself up about having to call it a day - it was a monumental effort on your part, deserving of nothing but respect.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: wilkyboy on 22 January, 2016, 08:38:25 am
Well done Steve — you put yourself and long-distance cycling firmly on the map and you did yourself proud!  Chapeau!  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

And hats off to the team — a huge effort over the past 13 months to keep Steve on the road — especially the unsung heroes and heroines who looked after him week in, week out on the home front, you especially deserve huge respect!  :thumbsup: :-*

See you on a ride out soon, mate.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Bobby on 22 January, 2016, 08:38:40 am
Sleep well Steve, you have inspired lots of people to push themselves that little bit further.  You have also achieved something that I still cannot truly comprehend  :thumbsup:

Get some R&R - nobody deserves it more
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Legs on 22 January, 2016, 08:39:34 am
Congratulations on everything you've achieved, and for having the bravery to make the decision to call it a day.  Much respect.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: notlobgp14 on 22 January, 2016, 08:41:54 am
Very well done for what you achieved.  I have never met you in person but can Really feel for you having to draw the attempt to a close.  It must have been an extremely hard decision in the end; you've let no one down at all.

As far as This Thread goes; Please, Please don't let it deteriorate into another 'it could have been done so much better this way' mess!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Basil on 22 January, 2016, 08:42:08 am
Well done Steve.  You're a bloody hero.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: barakta on 22 January, 2016, 08:49:12 am
Sad decision, but the right one I think Steve.  Wishing you the best for rest, recovery and whatever the future may hold for you.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Von Broad on 22 January, 2016, 08:51:05 am
Well done Steve - well done for attempting something so unfathomably difficult, and well done for having the courage to make this decision when you have, it can't have been easy for you. Certainly got my respect, that's for sure.
Wishing you extremely good health in recovery.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Ham on 22 January, 2016, 08:53:46 am
Very well done indeed, Steve, your achievement is truly inspiring.

And of course the biggest problem was the interface with the moped that broke Steve's legend.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Rod Marton on 22 January, 2016, 08:57:11 am
A sad decision but a correct one. I, like many others on this forum, have been worried about Steve's health/performance over recent weeks.

Unfortunately, Steve, the fates have conspired against you. If it hadn't been for the scooter rider, I'm sure you could have fought your way through all the other problems to Tommy's total. But to restart when you weren't in peak condition was just too much. But maximum chapeau to you! As an ex-mileater, I know perfectly well that even at my peak I wouldn't even have got close to what you achieved.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Assasin on 22 January, 2016, 08:58:17 am
A difficult choice but the right one.
You still have a PB for the year which was pretty awesome considering you broke a few bones on the way.
looking forward to catching up on a sunny ride somewhere.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 22 January, 2016, 08:59:37 am
60-odd thousand miles in a year, inspired a whole new generation of record attempts, as well of many of us in more mundance endeavours, whatever you decide to do next, wish you good fortune.  And +1 to so many of the comments above.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 January, 2016, 09:00:12 am
I feel immensely sad for Steve and to bring the attempt to an end must be an immensely difficult time. No-one can have any doubt that Steve pushed himself extremely hard, even more so than usual in recent days, in order to base his decision on what is achievable.

Have a good rest Steve.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Clemo on 22 January, 2016, 09:02:07 am
Rest up Steve ready for Jan 1st 2017  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 22 January, 2016, 09:03:01 am
British Cycling Legend... as simple as that.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: jochta on 22 January, 2016, 09:04:09 am
Congratulations Steve on everything you've achieved, an amazing effort. It might seem awful giving up but hopefully in reflection you'll see it was the right decision. Take some time to recuperate, think about what you've done and be proud.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Julian Smith on 22 January, 2016, 09:04:34 am
Great achievement Steve. Like many I was proud of the way you took on a challenge many of us could only read about. A truly great achievement in this day and age to cycle that distance day after day in all weathers.
Like so many who supported you both financially and in spirit take care, sleep well and do not be afraid to ask for our help.
Thank you.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Greenbank on 22 January, 2016, 09:06:15 am
Well done Steve, astonishing effort and you should be very proud of everything you achieved.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: perpetual dan on 22 January, 2016, 09:06:49 am
To have come this far is inspirational and audacious, so +1 on the "well done Steve". I'm sure it must have been a decision that took time to reach. Enjoy the rest.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Jaded on 22 January, 2016, 09:07:17 am
You have a UCMA record Steve, and what's more, one achieved with the hindrance of a broken ankle received during it. Bloody amazing and one that will probably never be broken!

Really sorry to hear it's over for now, but I'll certainly support you in future attempts.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: rabbit on 22 January, 2016, 09:09:51 am
Well done Steve.

You've shown all of us you're amazing and made us proud with your stoic dedication riding through the English seasons.

Plenty of time for another attempt and, more importantly, plenty of time to rest, recupurate and leave the entire thing behind to ride something far more interesting that A roads. That TCR really does look outstanding this year!

Freedom from the shackles of HAMR. Don't regret it, enjoy it :)
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: simonp on 22 January, 2016, 09:13:32 am
The determination you've shown throughout has been an inspiration. Now take care of yourself.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: rafletcher on 22 January, 2016, 09:13:56 am
Sad decision, but the right one I think Steve.  Wishing you the best for rest, recovery and whatever the future may hold for you.

+1
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: toontra on 22 January, 2016, 09:17:05 am
I can't even imagine how hard it must have been to agree to ending the challenge, Steve.  Like every other aspect of the last year you tackled it with immense bravery and courage.  Truly inspirational.  The very best of luck with whatever else you decide to do (cycling and otherwise) in the coming months and years.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: red marley on 22 January, 2016, 09:17:50 am
A wise and tough decision to make that will only enhance the respect given to you for making it.

I know that one of your aims has long been to encourage others to get on their bikes and enjoy what long distance cycling has to offer. Your contribution in rejuvenating the year record, in bringing attention to long distance cycling in mainstream cycling culture and to others who like to ride is unsurpassed. Whatever you decide to do in the future, that legacy will stay with you.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Vince on 22 January, 2016, 09:19:13 am
Good call Steve. I hope you can direct the fortitude you have shown in your record attempt towards getting over any disappointment you feel and remember you have let no one down.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Aunt Maud on 22 January, 2016, 09:20:34 am
You're still long distance cyclings' "favourite child".


Take a break.....have a KitKat.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: tiermat on 22 January, 2016, 09:21:56 am
Impressive.

Tough call.

You hero, Steve, I'll buy you a beer sometime.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Marmitegeoff on 22 January, 2016, 09:22:16 am
Congratulations to Steve for the massive achievement of riding further in a year than anyone but three others ever, for the astonishing determination of both continuing following a broken ankle, and of restarting with the concurrent attempt, and of course for actually getting validation options in place that have triggered this resurgence in interest in the year records.

Chapeau, truly.

+1  Nothing further to add, but if you need anything just ask.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: TimC on 22 January, 2016, 09:28:34 am
Absolutely the right decision. The analysis can wait for another time, but the respect in which Steve is held can only be increased by this brave and difficult decision to stop. What Steve has achieved, against quite awesome difficulties, is incredible - and, through bringing the record to life again, inspired Tarzan, Miles and Bruce to give it a go themselves. It's been an amazing year which has invigorated so many people's interest in cycling (and YACF!), and, for that, we all have much to be grateful to Steve for. Now I hope Steve gets a bloody good rest, a holiday, and time to decide what the future holds.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: macnark on 22 January, 2016, 09:34:35 am
Steve, you have done immensely well, essentially going it alone out on the road, which has to be the hardest, most brutal approach.

But you gave it a bloody good go, with admiration and respect earned all-round.

If you want to give it another go, I'd be more than happy to help out with financial support again - you clearly have what it takes !

Have a good rest and be bloody proud chap!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: StuAff on 22 January, 2016, 09:35:58 am
Heroic effort. Well done Steve, the right decision under the circumstances.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 22 January, 2016, 09:36:07 am
That's a really nice q&a video too - great end to a brilliant effort
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Tail End Charlie on 22 January, 2016, 09:36:28 am
Impressive.

Tough call.

You hero, Steve, I'll buy you a beer sometime.

Amen to that. I'll do the same.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: cycleman on 22 January, 2016, 09:38:50 am
Well done on outstanding achievement  :thumbsup:.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Martin on 22 January, 2016, 09:39:37 am
Tough decision Steve,

have a well earned rest, you are still The Daddy on this side of the Pond this Millennium.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: L CC on 22 January, 2016, 09:40:21 am
*round of applause for all you've achieved, Steve*


Commiserations on having to make a really tough decision.

You know I'm here for you if ever you need anything.

Take care of yourself xx
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: LMT on 22 January, 2016, 09:41:00 am
Well done on setting a new record and all the best with your future endeavours - be it the HAMR or something else.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 January, 2016, 09:42:48 am
That first video is very moving indeed

:-(

Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 22 January, 2016, 09:48:59 am
I like the long video, Steve's clearly happy at home with good friends. Steve's no more failed than Michael Broadwith failed at the Mersey Roads.
I wonder if we'll ever see such a competition again?
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: SoreTween on 22 January, 2016, 09:51:51 am
Like every other part of the effort that must have been such a tough thing to do.  Rest well Steve.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Morrisette on 22 January, 2016, 09:52:18 am
Aw, that's a shame but the right decision I think.

TRULY AUDACIOUS, can't say anything else!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Bunker22 on 22 January, 2016, 09:56:34 am
Still a Hero !

He has put himself in the handful of greats in distance cycling.

Well done Steve, recouperate well.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Laid Back Rich on 22 January, 2016, 09:56:51 am
+1 to all above, fantastic effort Steve  :thumbsup:

I look forward to riding with you again sometime/somewhere soon.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: 24hourmaths on 22 January, 2016, 10:00:56 am
Chapeau Steve, on a fine effort.

I have enjoyed watching your progress in awe over the last 385 days and you have certainly inspired me to ride further.

Thank you, and now rest up and stay healthy... and look forward to the spring!

Mike
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: tom_e on 22 January, 2016, 10:08:50 am
Difficult decision, and I have to say quite sensible to leave it a while to make it.  You wouldn't want to quit and wonder what might have been if you'd carried on.

You set out to cycle for a year, got hit by a moped, got back on your trike and carried on, had to change your diet completely, got back on the bike and carried on, moved into the next year after you started, got back on the bike and carried on, and only after plenty of thought did you make the difficult (and probably correct) decision to stop.  You still claimed a UMCA record and no doubt have some awesome memories.  Might even have inspired a whole generation of new attempts on it.  Enjoy a rest.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Shreds on 22 January, 2016, 10:09:06 am
I reckon making that video must have been as hard as some of the tough days on the road. Broadcasting your retirement this time from the challenge must have been truly heartbreaking and a really tough call, especially after just ending what was effectively a 235 mile day and a bit on the road.

I have immensely enjoyed following your journey, it's very easy to sit at a screen and watch rather than being out in all weathers every single day and it is not surprising Tommys record has stood for so long. In fact within these shores it effectively continues to stand. ( but kudos to Kurt and Alicia for taking on the challenge too).

The good thing is that you have come away from this with yourself intact and the respect of the world for reigniting the interest in The Year record.

You are a true hero.

I am sure recouperation will take time, but for now, cheers on being such a single minded mileater. The next few months will no doubt be difficult too, make sure you bolt the door at night to prevent your body wandering off on the bike for a spin round MK sleep cycling.

And don't forget the whole cycling community remain resolutely behind you, so even though some privacy will no doubt be nice, do not feel embarrassed to ask the cycling community for any help you need in months and years to come.

Now where's that book that Dave Barter is ghost writing for you about the attempt. 😜

.....order No. 1, ready and waiting.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Hummers on 22 January, 2016, 10:10:44 am
Sad news but I expect it was the right decision.

Chapeau to Steve and the Team for what must have  been a challenging 12+ months.

H

Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Graeme on 22 January, 2016, 10:11:02 am
I just read Steve's email and wanted to add my own message of support for him personally - what he undertook was massive and I have deep admiration for him and for his decision to stop.

I hope you recover soon Steve and I look forward to seeing you out there someday.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: madcow on 22 January, 2016, 10:11:42 am
marcusjb has captured everything there is to say.
I wish Steve well , whatever he chooses to do in the future. His legendary status within AUK has just reached  a  new level and will endure for a long time.

Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Bairn Again on 22 January, 2016, 10:14:02 am
"His legendary status within AUK has just reached  a  new level and will endure for a long time."

That. 

And a nice guy too.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Bairdy on 22 January, 2016, 10:14:18 am
Steve, we all know how strong you are, physically and mentally but this record attempt also to a degree required Lady Luck to be on your side, sadly she wasn't always paying full attention.

Tommy Godwin would be giving you a huge round of applause and scratching his head wondering how the hell you managed to cycle 63,568.2 miles in a year when you'd suffered a broken ankle and ridden through one of the windiest years on record.

You've inspired so many people and boggled so many minds. It's.....er.......mind boggling.
Well done Steve.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: TGS on 22 January, 2016, 10:15:49 am
Steve, you are a hero.

To have ridden 63,565 miles in a year which included a broken leg, one legged recumbent riding and a PBP is absolutely amazing. If the moped had not stopped you in your tracks things would have panned out very differently.

If you ever decide to try again you will have our wholehearted support, but maybe you can just relax for a bit now?

Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Jurek on 22 January, 2016, 10:21:54 am
Steve, you've been outstanding.
Much respect.
J
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 22 January, 2016, 10:31:01 am
Wot everyone else has said in spades.

As yet I've only watched the first shorter video, and I've never met Steve in person, but at points he appears to be almost breaking down in tears. He certainly looks completely shattered. This video and Steve's appearance and demeanour  increases my respect for everything he (and his team) have achieved.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Chris F.cc on 22 January, 2016, 10:39:24 am
Massive congratulations on your amazing, inspiring achievement Steve!
Many, many thanks to the support team as well.
Best Wishes and Good Luck to all in adjusting to a quieter, but hopefully prouder 'normal' life.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Freya on 22 January, 2016, 10:42:12 am
That was a great effort Steve. Sorry it didn't work out. Don't dwell on what might have been. Enjoy your rest & make sure you fully recover before doing anything else.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: RPhilips on 22 January, 2016, 10:42:44 am
Huge congratulations Steve!  You've really done something amazing over the last year so you should feel proud of your truly awesome achievement.  I wish you all the best of luck with whatever you choose to do next.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Chris S on 22 January, 2016, 10:47:02 am
Well done Steve, brilliant effort!

Now go out, have a couple of beers and get yourself laid.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: rogerzilla on 22 January, 2016, 10:54:00 am
A pox on moped-riding muppets.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 22 January, 2016, 11:02:28 am
Well done Steve. I'm sure it's a hard decision to stop but it's better to have made an attempt than not known what you were capable of. I'm not sure what plans you might form now but I hope that you know that our support doesn't end the day you step off the bike. Don't hesitate to ask for the things you need, when you need them.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Speshact on 22 January, 2016, 11:05:19 am
Chapeau, Steve. Your real adventure has been a spellbinding armchair adventure for us. Thank you.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: zigzag on 22 January, 2016, 11:06:17 am
thank you Steve for being an ispiration to push on when going gets tough. i don't know any other person possessing so much of physical and mental fortitude. a brave man, a hero, a legend!!

now rest well, look after yourself and recover properly
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Wowbagger on 22 January, 2016, 11:10:42 am
Wonderful stuff - and he keeps his sense of humour! Totally indomitable.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Jurek on 22 January, 2016, 11:16:26 am
Wonderful stuff - and he keeps his sense of humour! Totally indomitable.
*Makes a note of today's new word* :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Ningishzidda on 22 January, 2016, 11:21:02 am
Well done chap.

R & R and go again when the time is right.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: DCLane on 22 January, 2016, 11:30:22 am
Steve - well done. You've earnt huge respect from around the world.

Recover and re-think what can be done should you decide to try this again.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: hellymedic on 22 January, 2016, 11:35:49 am
I'm sure this is the right decision.

I hope you recover well and we see healthy, fit and well in the future!

We all think you're great!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: DaveE128 on 22 January, 2016, 11:45:06 am
Big respect Steve! :thumbsup: You've earned it!

Commiserations on what must be a huge disappointment for you.  A very tough decision to have to make. However, if you're ever tempted to think that you've let anyone down, please don't!  8) I don't think that's how anyone sees it and as a minor supporter I certainly don't.

Don't take anyone's musings on here or elsewhere about strategy or anything else as criticisms - it's just something people do with any sporting endeavour, and almost all sports fans are "armchair experts!"  ::-) I really don't think that anyone actually reckons they could have had a better stab at it than you have!

You've inspired a huge number of people to cycle more and further (and not just other HAMR contestants!)  Lots of us have greatly enjoyed following your attempts too.

If, once you're fully recovered, you decide to make a 3rd attempt, I don't think there will be any shortage of support, and who knows - third time lucky?! It seems to me that you clearly have what it takes to break the record, you've just been really unfortunate. You'd have the benefit of a lot of knowledge and experience from your own and others' attempts. Edit: and likely no El Niño weather to contest with!

If you decide to move on to other challenges, you'll have left quite a legacy with the HAMR quite apart from your own record!

Enjoy the rest, and best wishes for the future!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Canardly on 22 January, 2016, 11:49:11 am
T'was very well done Steve. Chapeau!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: menthel on 22 January, 2016, 11:50:31 am
Sad to hear but it sounds like the right decision. Thanks to Steve for the inspiration and entertainment (good and bad) over the attempt.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: LEE on 22 January, 2016, 11:52:58 am
No commiserations from me I'm afraid, just huge congratulations for what you achieved.

I got to ride with you for an hour on PBP2015 and I fully intend to put that in my "name-dropping bank" for future use. ("Steve Abraham? Yes I know him, , I actually rode part of the attempt with him you know?")


Legend.


1 year ago this week, Stockbridge, Hampshire.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l4s5GveSsDU/VMgenDlePOI/AAAAAAAAElA/rnVPpfB1jJc/s1280-Ic42/a%252520Steve%252520Abraham%2525203.jpg)
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Andydauddwr on 22 January, 2016, 11:53:22 am
Very well done Steve and team!  Not the result you wanted I know, but I hope when you've caught up on zzzzs that you remember your efforts well. 

See you on the road...
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: geraldc on 22 January, 2016, 12:02:01 pm
Everything's been said already, but I enjoy reading Steve's ride reports online (as blood and guts are never spared) I think there's a book in your exploits, so hopefully you'll put fingers to keyboard soon.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Karla on 22 January, 2016, 12:10:53 pm
Commiserations for having to stop Steve, but big congratulations too, both for all the riding you've done so far and also for making the call.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Polar Bear on 22 January, 2016, 12:21:57 pm
Fantastic attempt Steve.  You have been wonderfully inspiring, tenacious and audacious in your attempt. 

You can look back with pride and forward with purpose.

Rest well, plan carefully.

Why not pop along to Long Itch in May for a couple of nights under canvas and mild crack with lots of admiring fans of yours?  I seriously doubt that you'd have to buy a beer and the Long Itch Diner breakfast on the Saturday would be on me though I don't rate their sausages!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: clarion on 22 January, 2016, 12:24:01 pm
Chapeau Steve!  An amazing and inspiring ride. And you put Tommy Godwin and the Year Record back on the map.

A very tough decision to make, but probably the right one.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: mr_brooks on 22 January, 2016, 12:25:18 pm
What an amazing ride - now rest and enjoy being a legend.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: redfalo on 22 January, 2016, 12:26:08 pm
I agree it's sad that Steve had to abandon the second attempt but absolutely reject the notion that it's "a shame".

In my view, Steve's decision is brave, smart and just right. As others have argued much more convincingly in the "current thoughts" threads, the second attempt had turned into a lost cause a long time ago and carrying on had been pointless and potentially detrimental to his health. His decision was unavoidable given the daily averages required for months after months to come even close to Tommy's and Kurt's mileage.

I think there is a fine line between healthy and necessary tenacity every long-distance rider needs and reality-denying determination that can do more harm than good. I was starting to worry that Steve had started to drift towards the latter. Fortunately,  his decision to stop shows the opposite.

As many others have already said, Steve deserves loads of credit for reviving the year-record and inspiring others to tackle mind-boggling distances. Well done Steve! Now it's time to rest and regroup.

Steve on PBP
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n4NmF0DXdYk/VedKN67JjgI/AAAAAAAACKg/tHC0EcFlEOY/s912-Ic42/20150818-IMG_1484.jpg)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2NkXLVKPNus/VedK-sRBWCI/AAAAAAAACOE/gt19IZauz3Y/s912-Ic42/20150819-IMG_1561.jpg)
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: danridesbikes on 22 January, 2016, 12:34:05 pm
what an amazing year, so much for the guy to be proud off, well done Steve,

if anyone has 30 minutes, watch the full video  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Basil on 22 January, 2016, 12:43:24 pm
if anyone has 30 minutes, watch the full video  :thumbsup:

OK.  Hands up, who else spontaneously joined in with the applause at the end?   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Polar Bear on 22 January, 2016, 12:50:01 pm
The fact that he carried on when many kept telling him to stop was exactly the right thing to do and taught Steve an awful lot about the demands of the challenge.

Steve now knows what it is like to ride for the year, ride through pain, illness, crap weather etc. day after day after day.   If, or should that be when he goes again, and, he'll be better equipped to deal with the whole situation.   Only Steve and Kurt can appreciate what a gruelling challenge this is first hand.

For me the moped moron ruined Steve's chances this time and you cannot rule out such random acts, ever.   You cannot rule Steve out either.

Much respect Steve.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Ruthie on 22 January, 2016, 12:54:11 pm
Does that mean he can come to Clapham?

  :D

It's a shame he's had some bad luck.  But it's been one hell  of a ride.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Legs on 22 January, 2016, 12:58:33 pm
The fact that he carried on when many kept telling him to stop was exactly the right thing to do
(Apologies-  feel free to move to the More Current Thoughts thread if necessary to keep this thread free for justifiably slapping Steve on the back and congratulating him on an amazing 55 weeks.)

Many would disagree with you on this front, Michael.  If (heaven forbid) carrying on this last few weeks were to turn out to have had a detrimental effect on Steve's long-term health, would you still maintain this viewpoint?
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: scottlington on 22 January, 2016, 01:04:08 pm
The courage to start this whole thing in the first place, the courage to carry on in very difficult circumstances over the past 13 months and finally the courage to stop just boggles my mind.  :o

F*cking well done. Seriously. F*CKING. WELL. DONE.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 January, 2016, 01:10:28 pm
I agree it's sad that Steve had to abandon the second attempt but absolutely reject the notion that it's "a shame".

In my view, Steve's decision is brave, smart and just right. As others have argued much more convincingly in the "current thoughts" threads, the second attempt had turned into a lost cause a long time ago...

I disagree. I think this month was make or break. I can completely understand why Steve had to push on until he was satisfied in himself that he had given it his all, and / or reached the point where the mileages required were probably unachievable.

Hindsight and all that, but to my mind the only other time when the ending the attempt earlier might have worked out better in the long run was straight after the moped incident.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: nuttycyclist on 22 January, 2016, 01:14:55 pm
Well done Steve.   A fantastic achievement.    Yes there were hardships but you got out there and overcame.  A hard decision at the end but understandable.

Now is the time to rest and reflect on what you HAVE achieved.

This isn't the end, just a moment in time on your overall end game.    Maybe meet you on the road again if our future rides cross one day.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Polar Bear on 22 January, 2016, 01:23:19 pm
The fact that he carried on when many kept telling him to stop was exactly the right thing to do
(Apologies-  feel free to move to the More Current Thoughts thread if necessary to keep this thread free for justifiably slapping Steve on the back and congratulating him on an amazing 55 weeks.)

Many would disagree with you on this front, Michael.  If (heaven forbid) carrying on this last few weeks were to turn out to have had a detrimental effect on Steve's long-term health, would you still maintain this viewpoint?

Naturally I don't with any ill on Steve but he knew that he had to push himself to, and possibly beyond his limits on a regular basis to complete the challenge.   Steve will have learned an awful lot and it would have been his choice to continue.    Sometimes you learn a negative too but you need to learn that lesson.   THe fact that Steve continued after the moped incident shows that Steve is tenacious and highly motivated and will push until he can push no more.   

So, on balance I'd have to say yes, I would still consider that he did the right thing even if he ended up not getting the right result this time.   Next time, which I sincerely hope there is to be, Steve will be even better, even stronger and even wiser.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Si S on 22 January, 2016, 01:45:31 pm
Chapeau Sir
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: teethgrinder on 22 January, 2016, 01:50:07 pm
I could have pushed on even more but I couldn't see how I could get the record because I was falling further behind when I needed to be getting ahead. I saw this week as my last chance to average at least 205 a day, but it wasn't going to happen. I needed to be building up to 225 for February and wasn't even getting 200. Getting furthe behind would have left a lot more to do later on.
The whole purpose was to get the record, not do as much as I can regardless of it being the record.
The combination of getting further behind and later into the year makes it much harder to regain losses. Losing 1000 miles in the first week amounts to a few extra miles a day for the rest of the year. Losing 1000 miles in the last week is impossible to regain.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: clarion on 22 January, 2016, 01:54:22 pm
Steve, you do hold a UMCA record.  The distance is not what you could probably have achieved without the intervention of the mopedist of fate, but you are the first on the list for 18-49yo.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Pancho on 22 January, 2016, 01:55:52 pm
Congratulations, Steve. Outstanding work.

And truly inspirational. Not just inspirational to those others who've taken up the (mammoth) challenge of your re-boot of The Year record - but also inspirational at, let's say, the lower echelons of cycling. I know that many of my worst, grottiest, winter commutes only happened last year because I thought, "you know, that bloke's doing 10 - 20 times my commute every day and he's out in this".

Total respect.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: simonp on 22 January, 2016, 02:07:03 pm
I could have pushed on even more but I couldn't see how I could get the record because I was falling further behind when I needed to be getting ahead. I saw this week as my last chance to average at least 205 a day, but it wasn't going to happen. I needed to be building up to 225 for February and wasn't even getting 200. Getting furthe behind would have left a lot more to do later on.
The whole purpose was to get the record, not do as much as I can regardless of it being the record.
The combination of getting further behind and later into the year makes it much harder to regain losses. Losing 1000 miles in the first week amounts to a few extra miles a day for the rest of the year. Losing 1000 miles in the last week is impossible to regain.

Steve,

I never could comprehend how you managed to get up every day and ride 200+ miles. I don't think there are many people capable of this. I can put together a run of about 3-4 days like that, then I'm done.

Chapeau.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 22 January, 2016, 02:07:43 pm
Congratulations, Steve. Outstanding work.

And truly inspirational. Not just inspirational to those others who've taken up the (mammoth) challenge of your re-boot of The Year record - but also inspirational at, let's say, the lower echelons of cycling. I know that many of my worst, grottiest, winter commutes only happened last year because I thought, "you know, that bloke's doing 10 - 20 times my commute every day and he's out in this".

Total respect.
Absolutely - I'm well within the lower echelons of cycling these days, and during grotty rides I've said to myself 'Steve's out in this I can't turn back now' and when I've laid in bed not wanting to get out on the bike I've thought 'but Steve got up this morning no matter how HE felt' - that's the legacy for me
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Hing on 22 January, 2016, 02:18:52 pm
Chapeau, Steve!
May be consider moving to some windless flatland with eternal sunshine and ride in the same traffic-free course with perfect asphalt everyday next time  ;)

p.s. I was the idiot who chased you up and shook your hand on the way back in PBP.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Rainmaker on 22 January, 2016, 02:43:05 pm
Chapeau Steve!    You gave it your all and nobody could expect more, Uncle Jack would be proud of you.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Bus Shelter Bertie on 22 January, 2016, 02:44:17 pm
Thanks Steve, you've done a great job, and you've inspired us all, and for that we're very grateful.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Whip on 22 January, 2016, 03:12:41 pm
I believe we have all learned from and through your experience. You have revived a historic challenge that seemed only legendary and impossible. You gave more than anyone will ever know. It was obvious to the world that this was in your heart and IS YOUR DREAM.
We applaud you and your valiant doggedness my friend!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: LEE on 22 January, 2016, 03:53:42 pm
I could have pushed on even more but I couldn't see how I could get the record because I was falling further behind when I needed to be getting ahead. I saw this week as my last chance to average at least 205 a day, but it wasn't going to happen. I needed to be building up to 225 for February and wasn't even getting 200. Getting furthe behind would have left a lot more to do later on.
The whole purpose was to get the record, not do as much as I can regardless of it being the record.
The combination of getting further behind and later into the year makes it much harder to regain losses. Losing 1000 miles in the first week amounts to a few extra miles a day for the rest of the year. Losing 1000 miles in the last week is impossible to regain.

Steve,

I never could comprehend how you managed to get up every day and ride 200+ miles. I don't think there are many people capable of this. I can put together a run of about 3-4 days like that, then I'm done.

Chapeau.

Exactly this.

I made this point before but "normal people" just think 200 miles is a long way to cycle... but they're just saying that the same way they'd say 80 miles is a long way to cycle.
It's actually only the people who have cycled 200 miles a day, especially on consecutive days (PBP for example) that REALLY know how amazing your achievement is.

My multiple 200 mile experiences are usually followed with mouth-ulcer experiences, feeling a bit shitty experiences and long lie-in experiences.  That's after 4 of them.

It's highly unlikely I'll ever find out what 5 consecutive days feels like.

Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: madcow on 22 January, 2016, 04:05:59 pm
Quote from Lee- It's highly unlikely I'll ever find out what 5 consecutive days feels like.

LEL 2017-you know you want to.

 (http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t258/ptolemaic/tumblr_lrtsx6BZPA1r33rbuo1_500.gif) (http://s162.photobucket.com/user/ptolemaic/media/tumblr_lrtsx6BZPA1r33rbuo1_500.gif.html)
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Halloween on 22 January, 2016, 04:14:56 pm
Well done Steve, you have been, and will continue to be, an inspiration to countless randonneurs across the world. You have our respect and admiration. Now go and make a full recovery in the full knowledge that you have done yourself, and us, proud.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Shreds on 22 January, 2016, 06:39:41 pm
Above the encouragement you have given me and countless others, above the absolutely amazing feat of riding 63k+ miles, your way of finishing this and immediately appearing on channels to make the announcement places you above mere mortals. You are a cycling God, and a gracious and complete gentleman to all those around you in the cycling world.

Mr Stephen Abraham......take a bow.

And thank you for providing the rest of us with a fabulous year long cycling and athletic spectacle, which has at times had us all on the edges of our respective saddles or chairs. More we could not have asked for, from a genuinely great and sincere bloke.

Bathe in the glory for a while......👏🏻😀
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: notlobgp14 on 22 January, 2016, 06:45:51 pm
Above the encouragement you have given me and countless others, above the absolutely amazing feat of riding 63k+ miles, your way of finishing this and immediately appearing on channels to make the announcement places you above mere mortals. You are a cycling God, and a gracious and complete gentleman to all those around you in the cycling world.

Mr Stephen Abraham......take a bow.

And thank you for providing the rest of us with a fabulous year long cycling and athletic spectacle, which has at times had us all on the edges of our respective saddles or chairs. More we could not have asked for, from a genuinely great and sincere bloke.

Bathe in the glory for a while......👏🏻😀

+1
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: PAC on 22 January, 2016, 10:41:58 pm
Steve, what you've achieved is incredible and throughout the past year, I've enjoyed following your progress :thumbsup:  I rode with you from Cholsey to Hungerford about a year ago and was impressed at how controlled you were to ride as efficiently & smoothly as possible...I really look forward to seeing you on an Audax again soon...I have good memories of doing your DIY400 in 2012 & also going past you on the Flatlands in 2013 when we were like tortoise & hare - you kept talking to the banana in my jersey pocket each time I rode past you which was a laugh ;D

I also think you've inspired a lot of us to get out and ride & keep on going when we would normally decide not to...the WWSD factor :thumbsup:

Have a well deserved rest & thanks for posting the really raw and honest video - that must've been so hard to do, but it's added to the already massive respect that I have for you!

Cheers,

Peter.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Von Broad on 22 January, 2016, 11:28:54 pm
Well, that was so interesting, I've just had the chance to watch the longer video, and I must say, not sure if this has been mentioned today, but a big thanks goes out to the team for being very, very attentive to Steve's well being for some time, much more than some us here really understood [we had no way of knowing afterall], and it's pretty obvious they were instrumental in putting the option to Steve, much earlier than Steve would have done to himself who would may have ploughed on regardless for a while yet - especially Idai, who explained how he turned up at Steve's flat after Steve being out there for goodness how long, 3 hrs sleep and getting ready to go again, took one look....and got suitably concerned. They deserve a lot of credit for that IMO. To see him talking, surrounded by those that have supported him close to hand, arm in arm with Lesley, says so much.

They were always ready to step in when things became insurmountable. And they did. Respect to all.
And what's even nicer is that...Steve, obviously disappointed by it all, recognizes the truth of the whole thing as well.
That can only be good for him long term.
[Go easy on the hard stuff TG!]
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: tonyh on 23 January, 2016, 06:24:14 am
Congratulations to you Steve, and to all your Team. Brilliant stuff indeed. The Videos are another achievement - loads of wisdom and straight talking (as ever!). All the best for getting through a good recovery period - as others have said, likely to be another tough thing in itself - glad you are well up to it.

The relief when we heard that you were not injured was immense! Thanks for the whole year plus, and for very much inspiration, wisdom and kindness for a long time before.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Derek on 23 January, 2016, 09:21:47 am
Sad news indeed but was inevitable given the problems Steve has had.

Wish him well in his recovery and whatever he decides to do in the future.

Derek
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Justin(e) on 23 January, 2016, 10:21:05 am
Hi Steve,

Congratulations on a year's ride that will forever be remembered in the annals of AUK.

Commiserations on not achieving your goals.  Genuinely gutted for you.  I really thought you would do it.

Allez.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: T42 on 23 January, 2016, 01:59:14 pm
Sad to see this just now, but it's better than damaging his health, maybe permanently.  In the meantime, admiration of what he achieved despite such horrid bad luck is permanent.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Tigerrr on 23 January, 2016, 04:16:36 pm
Great respect Steve. Your doing this has been an inspiration - got others looking at it and has galvanised interest in longer distances and exploring the limits. Inspired me to get fit again and get back on the bike, and maybe back into audax this summer. Thanks.
I simply have no idea how you managed to get up and do it day after day in the ghastly wet and cold weather.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: swampthing on 23 January, 2016, 11:01:50 pm
Thank you very much, Steve Abraham!

Thank you for 385 mornings worth checking Strava!

Thank you for all the hoping, fearing, head shaking, applauding, despairing, cheering!

A beer, a tear and a whisky for me tonight!

Cheers from Germany,  :)
Swampthing
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: hillbilly on 24 January, 2016, 11:51:23 am
On the bright side, Steve, being emancipated from the tyranny of the record attempt means cycling can return to being for pleasure rather than for a purpose.  Enjoy the freedom of simply riding towards the horizon.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: mzjo on 24 January, 2016, 01:44:07 pm
That year still makes Steve probably the touring cyclist with the highest annual mileage ever, all the others, including Tommy Godwin, having been racers (and that record will probably remain for all time, there not being too many potential candidates to beat it, unless Steve tries to do it himself).
Other positive - this shows just how far the randonneur concept can be taken in long distance/long duration cycling.
Steve still enters into the top five of all-time long distance cyclists (at number four).

CONGRATULATIONS STEVE

(Of course there is a little margin for improvement due to the mileage lost with the moped incident - but Kurt also has a margin for improvement with the mileage he lost driving his van or messing around in bike shops when he could have been riding or sleeping).

That is still over 100,000kms in the year- mind-boggling!!!!
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 24 January, 2016, 02:29:17 pm
In general, it's right to see Steve's year as a sort of extended randonee. But Steve did ride the Mersey Roads 24 Hour Time Trial as part of his year.

That's always been a sort of endurance test for most of the participants. Only the top 3 or 4 have any realistic chance of victory, and it's eligible for up to 7 AUK points. Steve got 4 points, at an average of just below 16kph. it coincided with the low point in form that both Steve and Kurt had around that time.

I started editing a video about Steve at the 24, but got diverted by the footage of the other riders. Steve was mainly just very tired.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttdpL-Xr8Z4
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Justin(e) on 24 January, 2016, 02:57:41 pm
Out of curiosity - how many AUK points did Steve tally in 2015?

If all rides were converted into points, how does that compare with the WR for AUK points?
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 24 January, 2016, 03:03:11 pm
You'd need to assess each ride for average speed. I'd expect most to be above 15kph.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: hillbilly on 24 January, 2016, 03:13:45 pm
Out of curiosity - how many AUK points did Steve tally in 2015?

If all rides were converted into points, how does that compare with the WR for AUK points?

He got 33 points.

If all his rides were converted into points, he would have got 33 points.  Because none of his non-AUK rides would have qualified for AUK points as they were not audax rides.  And if they were to be registered as audax events, which requires passing through pre-agreed controls, he wouldn't have ridden as far.  In other words, it's all a bit academic.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: mattc on 25 January, 2016, 06:41:27 pm
The Sensible Answer;
very roughly 1000 points (assuming a point for each 100km he rode).

[I am confident this is accurate to at least 1sig fig]

Which (for those new to AUK history) makes an interesting comparison with his 400-odd points in a year achieved unsupported with a full-time job. (2007 ? )
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: mattc on 25 January, 2016, 06:43:48 pm
Who is behind the camera in the Sofa Videos?
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Wowbagger on 25 January, 2016, 06:47:59 pm
Sensible answer: he wasn't riding an audax.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: zigzag on 25 January, 2016, 06:53:06 pm
The Sensible Answer;
very roughly 1000 points (assuming a point for each 100km he rode).

[I am confident this is accurate to at least 1sig fig]

Which (for those new to AUK history) makes an interesting comparison with his 400-odd points in a year achieved unsupported with a full-time job. (2007 ? )

chalk and cheese / apples and oranges? :)
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 25 January, 2016, 07:10:48 pm
I'm taking Steve's year to be the professional Audax record, as he was sponsored by a lump sum, and then optional payments of £1 per Audax entry.
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Phil W on 25 January, 2016, 07:25:18 pm
Who is behind the camera in the Sofa Videos?

Andrew
Title: Re: Steve ends his second attempt
Post by: Deano on 25 January, 2016, 09:37:35 pm
Commiserations, Steve - it's hard to pack in when you're so far into something, but I'm very glad you had the support there to help you with your decision. That was a hell of a year, and you can look back with pride on what you've achieved. You'll have my support if you decide to try again.

I haven't replied before, as I've been out on my bike - I was riding home yesterday, and I was reeally tempted to take the train a couple of times, but I thought WWTGD? - and carried on. It was a good ride.