Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: Fidgetbuzz on 26 May, 2016, 01:40:46 pm

Title: [HAMR] Another go .. TG??
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 26 May, 2016, 01:40:46 pm
. I did a turbo session in the morning and did the toughest option my coach gave me.

This is a quote from a TG post elsewhere.

Please tell us  a little more about this?. 

Is this the start of a build up to a new attempt and who is the coach?

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: macnark on 29 May, 2016, 04:04:49 pm
I met Steve's new coach at an event this morning - I'll pass on this link to her and leave it to them to elaborate as they choose. ;-)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 01 June, 2016, 07:56:02 pm
. I did a turbo session in the morning and did the toughest option my coach gave me.

This is a quote from a TG post elsewhere.

Please tell us  a little more about this?. 

Is this the start of a build up to a new attempt and who is the coach?

I think you worked out what I was hinting at.
Another go is the aim but not definite.
Especially now Amanda Coker has come along and it's looking like she will put the record even higher (I reckon about 80,000 give or take 2,000) I am thinking of going for the new month record first as a test of how training is going and as part of my training. Then finish my training before going for another year.
No dates yet. I'd like to go early next year.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 01 June, 2016, 09:16:21 pm
Woohoo! Good luck.

Any plans as to where you might ride?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: caerau on 01 June, 2016, 09:23:40 pm
Italy - no mopeds there, oh no.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 01 June, 2016, 10:31:22 pm
 :thumbsup:

Allez Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Blodwyn Pig on 01 June, 2016, 10:52:40 pm
what is the record on  a tandem? I mean if TG was to  ride every day, but with a fresh stoker!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 01 June, 2016, 10:52:52 pm
Good stuff!   All the best in applying what you've learned.  There'll be sponsorship here if you go for it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 June, 2016, 01:36:23 am
It's all part of a plot to give Jo something to do in the mornings ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Justin(e) on 02 June, 2016, 06:03:07 pm
what is the record on  a tandem? I mean if TG was to  ride every day, but with a fresh stoker!!

I think that this needs a thread on its own; ideal tandem pairings.

Put Amanda and Steve together.  Or Steve and Kurt.  Kurt and Kajse.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clemo on 02 June, 2016, 08:35:48 pm
Thanks for the heads up Steve, looking at your Strava entries it didn't need a coach to work out what was going on, it does look like your averages have increased so in turn the training is having an effect.

Good luck and keep up the training.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: caerau on 02 June, 2016, 08:41:25 pm
what is the record on  a tandem? I mean if TG was to  ride every day, but with a fresh stoker!!

I think that this needs a thread on its own; ideal tandem pairings.

Put Amanda and Steve together.  Or Steve and Kurt.  Kurt and Kajse.


Better be compatible personalities - a year together 24 hrs a day nearly.  Still you never know.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: MikeH on 05 June, 2016, 05:17:26 pm
And nice to see Steve on the start sheet of the Newbury RC 12 hour TT next Sunday.  You're starting six minutes after me, so hopefully I'll see you you  to say Hi.  (Then hopefully I'd be seeing the number on your back before you see mine  :) )
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Hummers on 06 June, 2016, 01:38:30 am
Go for it sweetie!

H
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 07 June, 2016, 12:26:36 pm

Any plans as to where you might ride?

I still think that that the UK is best for me. Maybe not the best possible, but the best for me. The only exception being that Florida might be worth losing a day of flying for January to February/March.
Every rider who has attempted HAMR so far has used roads they know and that makes a lot of sense. Planning a 200 mile ride that makes best use of the wind and avoids hold ups really isn't easy even for one day, let alone when you have to consider what the weather will be doing in days to come. I also think that Milton Keynes Bowl has some potential for swapping between a TT bike and road bike, if I think that could work. It would also mean we could set up a base there for me to store food etc so I could have the advantages of a support crew without any actual support crew. Just put bottles and food on a table so I can grab it as I ride past.
I reckon I got my routing sussed last year. It'll never be perfect. Going in one continuous direction on a big land mass, like Australia has it's risks and disadvantages. You'd really need a support crew with follow vehicles for that, and there's still the time lost getting back to the start, which if done well, would mean at least two support crews, riding unsupported for a few days, a logistical nightmare or hanging around a base until the support crew gets back.
Going to France on unfamiliar roads really made me realise how much you need to know your routes and where you are going.
So many possibilties with different pros and cons
Amanda Coker's route does look very good
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 07 June, 2016, 12:30:47 pm
And nice to see Steve on the start sheet of the Newbury RC 12 hour TT next Sunday.  You're starting six minutes after me, so hopefully I'll see you you  to say Hi.  (Then hopefully I'd be seeing the number on your back before you see mine  :) )

I should be wearing my North Bucks Road Club jersey.
I've been training for about 3-4 weeks now and I definitely feel a bit stronger than I was but I don't think I'm going that well, so you might well catch me.
I'm riding because the boss (my coach) told me to. If it was down to me, I'd be riding an Audax. ;D But it'll be something different and it's only 12 hours. 8)
Good luck :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: MikeH on 07 June, 2016, 02:10:47 pm
Best of luck Steve.  Ride well.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: MikeH on 13 June, 2016, 10:43:18 am
Great to see you yesterday.

It made my day to see you re-pass me.  You are riding well.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 15 June, 2016, 07:05:42 pm
Great to see you yesterday.

It made my day to see you re-pass me.  You are riding well.  :thumbsup:

Thanks.
I remember you passing me and saying something (I couldn't get any of it ;D) then I twigged who it was once you'd passed.
I slowed down a bit after 8 hours but felt better and speeded up again for the last two.
Still a way to go before I'm going well. I've done better in the first 12 of a 24. I couldn't have ridden another 200 miles in 12 hours after that. But I do seem to be going in the right direction.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clemo on 01 September, 2016, 10:48:26 am
Is Steve doing something special for September ?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jack_P on 01 September, 2016, 02:49:22 pm
Is Steve doing something special for September ?

Recent Twitter post states that he could be going for the month record during September, 7000 miles as the target. Strava will reveal later I guess.
So for UMCA rules there should be a tracker page running.  ???

Go Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clemo on 01 September, 2016, 03:43:36 pm
Is Steve doing something special for September ?

Recent Twitter post states that he could be going for the month record during September, 7000 miles as the target. Strava will reveal later I guess.
So for UMCA rules there should be a tracker page running.  ???

Go Steve
Thanks that was my understanding as well, I did have a brief exnchange with Steve on Twitter and he said that depending how this month goes, Next year could be another year long attempt, let's hope that is the case  :thumbsup:

Go Steve  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: 8)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: RichForrest on 01 September, 2016, 03:48:59 pm
I can't find the comment on facebook but I think he said he is starting it tomorrow  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 01 September, 2016, 06:55:46 pm
Yes. I'm off very early tomorrow morning aiming for the UMCA HAMR Month Record.
The current record stands at 6679 miles and was established earlier this year by Adze Briscoe-Frieze in California.


I will be going for 7000 miles in the 30 consecutve days. That's 233 miles a day average.
This will decide whether I go for the year again as well as being part of my training and preparation for another go at the year. If I fail, then I will probably call an end to the Year Record, depending on why I fail.
If I succeed I will continue with training ready for another go at the Year, probably early next year.



Very much the same as before for the 1YTT. I'll be wearing the Milltag kit and riding the Raleigh bikes. I now have a new red "go faster" helmet as the old one seems a little battered (I only had it just over a year!)
I don't anticipate needing much support for the month. The 3 Raleighs are running but I only expect to need 1. Plus the spare wheels are all ready for when my tyres wear out.
I chose September because I find that the winds tend to be lighter but it's still warm, not scorching hot (less time spent filling bottles) and there's still a good number of daylight hours. (October is often very good too)

I have been training with a coach using a power meter since April and have got close to my PBs at 12 and 24 hour TTs this year as part of my training. My fitness has improved since the Mersey 24 in July.

Here's the link to my live tracker page

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv

Everyone is welcome to come and ride with me etc. If you're thinking of giving me a back wheel, then I would be grateful, though it never seemed to work out last time. Everyone who tried was too fast up the hills and slowed me down on the way down.
I expect to be mostly doing my 9am start, strong tailwind through the Fens, weaker headwind through the forests and back home for 11pm but not on the first few days.


I'll be carrying a movie camera. Whether we get anything out of it depends on whether I am any good at using it and if we can get it uploaded very quickly.


Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 01 September, 2016, 06:59:40 pm
That's great news! Good luck Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jurek on 01 September, 2016, 07:07:59 pm
It takes me the best part of a year to do that sort of mileage.
Go for it Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: delthebike on 01 September, 2016, 07:39:06 pm
All the best Steve!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 01 September, 2016, 08:51:32 pm
Bloody good luck Steve, wishing you fair winds and weather.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 01 September, 2016, 09:01:43 pm
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: 24hourmaths on 01 September, 2016, 09:42:23 pm
Best of luck, Steve - remember to stop for a Nando's once in a while - it's the key!  :demon:

Mike  :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 02 September, 2016, 12:10:04 am
Go STEVE.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 02 September, 2016, 01:18:43 am
Forza Steve  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ham on 02 September, 2016, 07:25:51 am
ThunderGrinder is GO.

50Km up, Heading south of Swaaaffam right now.

Go Steve, go.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 02 September, 2016, 08:18:49 am
Best of luck, Steve - remember to stop for a Nando's once in a while - it's the key!  :demon:

Mike  :)

Good luck Steve.  I reckon 7000 plus is possible.  Last year your September schedule was 7200 and you managed 6436 but with just one month of mile eating should succeed. I've no doubt you've reserched your routes etc along with dietary requirements from all you learned last year.  We shall follow your days riding with great interest.  Weather wise it's looking like just what you  (likely ) ordered
 ;D

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 02 September, 2016, 09:10:56 am
He appears to have set off just after midnight and I can't see the distance on the spot track.  Can someone prod Ivan, I think we need his Science back up.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Pale Rider on 02 September, 2016, 09:22:38 am
Looks to me like the tracker in Steve's link records point to point, not the route, so doesn't give mileage.

Presumably, he has another gadget on board which is doing that.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 02 September, 2016, 09:34:57 am
Woohoo Steve!

Do we have any details of his support for this attempt?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DaveE128 on 02 September, 2016, 03:20:27 pm
I now have a new red "go faster" helmet as the old one seems a little battered (I only had it just over a year!)

Haha, that made me chuckle! "Only"! ;D

Best of luck! :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 02 September, 2016, 07:06:21 pm
So a 300 miler to kick off day one. Not too shabby a start for Steve!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: orraloon on 02 September, 2016, 09:02:27 pm
How does one see the total mileages?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clemo on 02 September, 2016, 10:03:20 pm
Thats a proper start  :o :o :o :o :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Woofage on 03 September, 2016, 09:35:17 am
Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 03 September, 2016, 10:27:21 am
Where is his tracker page this time please?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 03 September, 2016, 10:29:35 am
Where is his tracker page this time please?

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv

But to be honest, I don't find it very useful.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 03 September, 2016, 10:29:58 am
Where is his tracker page this time please?

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv

but I find it harder to read that when he was doing The Year.

Edit: cross-post, and GMTA with Basil.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 03 September, 2016, 11:08:06 am
486km @ 28km/h  Well done Steve.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 03 September, 2016, 11:22:49 am
It was interesting to note that he had 2000m of climbing in the same distance that Amanda C. Has around 200m!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 04 September, 2016, 06:22:47 am
Way to go, Steve.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 04 September, 2016, 10:55:20 am
Oops technical hiccough yesterday. Hope today's better.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 04 September, 2016, 11:44:40 am
Yeah, but he still managed 226 miles in windy conditions and is 61 miles ahead of schedule on his second day (target is 7000 miles in 30 days = 233 mpd).

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Justin(e) on 04 September, 2016, 12:30:37 pm
Allez Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: postie on 04 September, 2016, 12:59:29 pm
Go smash it steve. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 04 September, 2016, 01:37:30 pm
Yeah, but he still managed 226 miles in windy conditions and is 61 miles ahead of schedule on his second day (target is 7000 miles in 30 days = 233 mpd).

Go Steve!

Ah.  Thanks.  This explains much to me.  Being a bit simple, I couldn't understand why he'd not ridden on the first day of the month.

I'm still finding the tracker mentioned up thread next to useless.  Am I using it wrong?  Where is the information on daily distance and total so far?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 04 September, 2016, 01:41:01 pm
I think you may need to follow him on Strava for a daily distance. The spot tracker appears to be just that, though I'll be happy to be proven wrong.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 04 September, 2016, 08:30:45 pm
I'm still finding the tracker mentioned up thread next to useless.  Am I using it wrong?  Where is the information on daily distance and total so far?
It's not you and this clearly would be why Ivan went to the trouble he did back at the start of 2015, the Spot is pretty meaningless on it's own.  It was Ivan's tracker that calculated distance so far as the day progressed:
http://audaxclubhackney.co.uk/tg.html
 :'(
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 05 September, 2016, 07:16:53 am
A good day from Steve yesterday with 254 miles (409km) covered on his East Anglian loop. This puts him  82 miles ahead of target.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: postie on 06 September, 2016, 12:10:20 pm
Anyone know Steve's distance for yesterday?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 06 September, 2016, 12:13:46 pm
Strava shows 382.2km
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 06 September, 2016, 12:21:17 pm
I've just added up his 4 days so far: 1640.4km. That's 1025 miles, so currently looking at 28 days for 7000 miles, if he can keep that up.

Good luck Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 06 September, 2016, 12:23:20 pm
Allez!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 06 September, 2016, 04:09:05 pm
It's not you and this clearly would be why Ivan went to the trouble he did back at the start of 2015, the Spot is pretty meaningless on it's own.  It was Ivan's tracker that calculated distance so far as the day progressed:
http://audaxclubhackney.co.uk/tg.html
 :'(

Sorry, I broke that when I moved to a new server, but as it took TG's feed from Trackleaders, not his direct spot feed, it wouldn't be any use now. Let me see if I can cook something up though.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 07 September, 2016, 10:15:21 am
Another 244 miles from Steve yesterday taking him 97 miles ahead of his target.

Recognising that going for an official 30 day record with the required advanced notification is different to choosing one's 'best 30 days', it is instructive to look at how the riders' monthly distances have stacked up.

Below is the rolling 30 day total for Steve and Kurt in 2015, for Tommy and so far for Amanda. If Steve hits his target of 7000 miles he will be clearly riding further than he was during 2015 which is good news for any future attempt at the OYTT. It will be interesting to see how Amanda responds (if at all) in that she has been riding pretty close to 7000 miles anyway and could conceivably top that distance should she wish.

(http://gicentre.org/oytt/images/30DayAverage.png)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Justin(e) on 07 September, 2016, 03:37:35 pm
Jo another terrific graphic.

My jaw drops when I look at what Tommy did.  And I'd like to withdraw my previous comment about world records.  The monthly mileage record is owned by TG.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 07 September, 2016, 04:00:24 pm
A video update from Steve which explains how he's doing and his plans for a possible future record attempt

http://www.facebook.com/stevenabraham2015/videos/1753280811587214

(while it sits on Facebook, you don't need an account to view it).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Tim Hall on 07 September, 2016, 04:38:55 pm
A video update from Steve which explains how he's doing and his plans for a possible future record attempt

http://www.facebook.com/stevenabraham2015/videos/1753280811587214

(while it sits on Facebook, you don't need an account to view it).

"It's a really good book because I'm in it".  This made Oi larf.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 07 September, 2016, 10:31:21 pm
Let me see if I can cook something up though.
I seem to have made spaghetti: http://frrt.org/hmmr1/ - this is his entire track since the start of the month and looks like I need to separate the days out somehow.

Sorry about the rubbish background map as well, it's my first test of rendering my own.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 07 September, 2016, 10:34:43 pm
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 07 September, 2016, 10:57:23 pm
Excellent. He rode past the house I grew up in  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 07 September, 2016, 11:10:44 pm
Wonder what diet Steve is on now...

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 08 September, 2016, 09:17:51 am
Wonder what diet Steve is on now...

Would be great to know this (I haven't watched the video yet so if its in there - sorry)

I am 2 weeks into a Keto diet (mainly to support my partner who has been advised to drastically cut her sugar and carb intake on medical advice).   I remember Steve talking about a struggle to adapt to a high fat diet on the year attempt.   I am hoping he did eventually adjust with the current performance being the result.   If it was not successful I be interested to know if he has changed diet drastically or if he is using some kind of carb cycling to fuel and recover from rides. 

I saw mention the other day of him shunning his eggs in favour of his favourite chicken dinner ....that sounds like the diet has been continued and that it has been successful?

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: danridesbikes on 08 September, 2016, 09:59:31 am
while not pointing at anything to do with his diet, heres a few food pics from his strava in recent days

(http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y394/dansipods2/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-08%20at%2009.53.28_zpsia78aicg.png) (http://s1272.photobucket.com/user/dansipods2/media/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-08%20at%2009.53.28_zpsia78aicg.png.html)
(http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y394/dansipods2/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-08%20at%2009.53.18_zpseuzbh72i.png) (http://s1272.photobucket.com/user/dansipods2/media/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-08%20at%2009.53.18_zpseuzbh72i.png.html)
(http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y394/dansipods2/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-08%20at%2009.53.11_zps5u5skpce.png) (http://s1272.photobucket.com/user/dansipods2/media/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-08%20at%2009.53.11_zps5u5skpce.png.html)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 08 September, 2016, 10:15:29 am
Thanks for that - I would say those photos very much suggest he is on some kind of Keto, High fat, low carb diet with slightly higher carbs than a normal keto diet would have (milk and oat cakes) added for cycling.... if so that is encouraging for me as it is very much what I am trying out.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 09 September, 2016, 12:19:14 pm
Another 240 miler from Steve yesterday, with 1700m of climbing. Amanda did almost exactly the same distance - with a recorded 86m of climbing  :o  That indicates the level of TG's challenge, and that's riding in the flatlands.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 11 September, 2016, 05:03:37 pm
Apologies if I've been woefully slack in keeping up with all this, but:

Is Steve's "Month record attempt" officially lodged with any validating authority? And has Amanda done the same? (given that she appears to be outdoing him in September, based on jo's main stats thread)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: NeilH on 11 September, 2016, 05:40:36 pm
Steve's month record attempt is UMCA registered. I don't think Amanda is officially registered for a month record attempt at the moment.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 11 September, 2016, 06:01:32 pm
Thanks! So, looking at the UMCA site, is this the current benchmark:

11 May 2016   9 Jun 2016       André Goeritz (49) Los Angeles, CA   Andrew Jelmert   Drew Clark   18-49   6679.8[total]   222.66[mpd]   This is the inaugural HAMR Month record and stands as the overall record for all categories until surpassed.

http://www.ultracycling.com/sections/records/stats/hamr/

[and Steve's target is 7,000 miles? ]
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Cmiller on 12 September, 2016, 03:03:27 am
Apologies if I've been woefully slack in keeping up with all this, but:

Is Steve's "Month record attempt" officially lodged with any validating authority? And has Amanda done the same? (given that she appears to be outdoing him in September, based on jo's main stats thread)

Steve is registered through the UMCA for a monthly record attempt in Sept, Amanda is not.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: jsabine on 12 September, 2016, 10:39:19 pm
[and Steve's target is 7,000 miles? ]

As I read his post about it, Steve is targeting 7k miles as an indicator of readiness for another attempt on the year record. The fact that if he fell short but passed 6680 he'd get the HAMR Month (HMMR?) would presumably be poor consolation.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 13 September, 2016, 12:29:22 am
One-third of the way through and Steve has clocked up 2425 miles. If he can emulate that for the next 20 days his total will be 7275.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 15 September, 2016, 01:25:40 pm
One-third of the way through and Steve has clocked up 2425 miles. If he can emulate that for the next 20 days his total will be 7275.

Many of us saw him on the Flatlands and he rode the night stage from Gainsborough to Sleaford with me; riding well.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 16 September, 2016, 08:20:25 pm
Whoa, on Steve's Cotswold & Chilterns ride of 370km & ~1400m @ ~29km/h, 100% of his heart rate was under 100bpm... 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 16 September, 2016, 09:16:41 pm
Whoa, on Steve's Cotswold & Chilterns ride of 370km & ~1400m @ ~29km/h, 100% of his heart rate was under 100bpm...
How many PRs? :o
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 21 September, 2016, 12:22:47 am
If I've got this right Steve is still - just - on target for 7000 miles in 30 days.

A succession of 240 mile days would be a big boost.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 21 September, 2016, 08:15:56 am
That's confirmed by Jo's latest report. His average so far would give him 7140 in 30 days.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivo on 21 September, 2016, 08:36:08 am
Apologies if I've been woefully slack in keeping up with all this, but:

Is Steve's "Month record attempt" officially lodged with any validating authority? And has Amanda done the same? (given that she appears to be outdoing him in September, based on jo's main stats thread)

Not completely if you judge by the Strava accounts. Strava starts counting from the 1st of september onwards. A month record is in fact 30 conscecutive days, Steve started on the 2nd of september, so in order to get the correct results you have to correct Amanda's montly mileage.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 24 September, 2016, 07:14:48 am
I have just been talking to Dear Sis-in-law about Steve's attempt and getting his effort into perspective.

"This month, Steve will cycle just over twice as far as you drive in two years."
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 September, 2016, 10:20:49 pm
I doned 7487 miles since August 27th, but that was in a motor-car.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: ElyDave on 24 September, 2016, 11:15:35 pm
I do about 3000 miles in my car every year.

Then there's sat in taxis, hire cars, adn that's before trains and planes.

I may cover my own car mileage on the bike this year
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 24 September, 2016, 11:20:18 pm
I work on the principle that if you're doing more cycling miles than car miles you're winning.

By which metric Teethgrinder is - as usual - in a league of his own, and Mr Larrington is losing in style.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 25 September, 2016, 02:19:46 pm
latest from jo:
Steve has one week left on his month record attempt and currently 31 miles ahead of target with 5398 miles covered.

(http://gicentre.org/oytt/images/monthDay23.png)
So it LOOKS to be under control; he's been trending upwards for the past week-ish.

But I don't know how he's achieving these miles. Has anyone inspected his riding time? Is he getting plenty of time for sleep?
Is his moving average steady?

Cos if so, he has plenty of scope to bang in a big final day, which effectively gives him another - let's say - 60-mile buffer. He is stuffed if anything really bad happens (i.e. loses a whole day), but he can afford a couple of mediocre days, or a dozen p*nctures, or maybe one proper mechanical ... etc ... etc ... :P
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 September, 2016, 02:31:12 pm
I do about 3000 miles in my car every year.

Then there's sat in taxis, hire cars, adn that's before trains and planes.

I may cover my own car mileage on the bike this year

Last year my bikes did more airplane miles than riding miles, courtesy of flying my Airnimal to North Carolina and Germany.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 25 September, 2016, 03:49:36 pm
latest from jo:
Steve has one week left on his month record attempt and currently 31 miles ahead of target with 5398 miles covered.

(http://gicentre.org/oytt/images/monthDay23.png)
So it LOOKS to be under control; he's been trending upwards for the past week-ish.

But I don't know how he's achieving these miles. Has anyone inspected his riding time? Is he getting plenty of time for sleep?
Is his moving average steady?

Cos if so, he has plenty of scope to bang in a big final day, which effectively gives him another - let's say - 60-mile buffer. He is stuffed if anything really bad happens (i.e. loses a whole day), but he can afford a couple of mediocre days, or a dozen p*nctures, or maybe one proper mechanical ... etc ... etc ... :P

Strava suggests he's spending 12-14 hours daily out between start and finish. But low intensity with HR averages between 100-110bpm and speeds around 22kph.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 25 September, 2016, 06:59:38 pm
I'm given to understand there's still a bit left in the tank.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 September, 2016, 07:07:04 pm
He should be using it. 22 kph is too slow.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: jsabine on 26 September, 2016, 12:09:03 am
Strava suggests he's spending 12-14 hours daily out between start and finish. But low intensity with HR averages between 100-110bpm and speeds around 22kph.

Something doesn't add up with those figures - 14h riding @ 22kph is 308km, or slightly under 192 miles, while eyeballing jo's graph suggest he's only had three days under 210 miles (and none of them quite as low as 192).

It does strike me that Amanda is much more consistent though.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 26 September, 2016, 11:07:39 am
Strava suggests he's spending 12-14 hours daily out between start and finish. But low intensity with HR averages between 100-110bpm and speeds around 22kph.

Something doesn't add up with those figures - 14h riding @ 22kph is 308km, or slightly under 192 miles, while eyeballing jo's graph suggest he's only had three days under 210 miles (and none of them quite as low as 192).

It does strike me that Amanda is much more consistent though.

I would think cycling around the same, circular, closed road every day is going to make consistency more likely.   That's not a knock on Amanda - its absolutely the way to monster this record out of everyone's reach. There is no way Steve is going to be able to do exactly the same length at the same speed on any two days..... Not saying he couldn't beat the record Amanda sets but its going to be a very different approach.   The nature of a Uk attempt will mean vast differences in how much effort you have to put out on any one day to get the miles in.

A brief look at Steve's strava stats each day suggests his heart rate is similar to the year attempt- but his pace is up by around 2mph on average and his stops are less.   Looks like if he gets the best of the wind he is doing 240 ish miles in the high 17mphs.  If the wind is not as favourable he is doing 220ish miles in the mid to low 16mphs.

Not sure if anyone will be able to beat the new Amanda record in the UK on open roads.... but im certain Steve could smash his own effort.  Think he needs to average over 18pm on a good day for a viable record attempt - and even that would require sleep dep management.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ham on 26 September, 2016, 11:32:15 am
Looking around for an image that popped into my head, I found this (https://fitisafeministissue.com/tag/track-cycling/) page, where the first thing I saw was this image which - if it hasn't appeared in these Hallowed Halls before, really needs to.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B8Ln2PGCMAEz21G.jpg)

(ETA - on Etsy for £8 (https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/235760966/bikesexual-ill-ride-just-about-anything) + shipping)

Oh, and of course the image I was looking for:


(https://fitisafeministissue.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/hamstering.jpg)

(not that I'm not in awe of both, you understand)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Justin(e) on 26 September, 2016, 04:31:06 pm
caption it thread?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 September, 2016, 03:27:03 pm
Is he nearly there yet?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Pale Rider on 28 September, 2016, 06:54:16 pm
Is he nearly there yet?

Steve has logged 6,168 miles, so that's 832 miles to reach 7,000 miles.

There's still four rides to go.

Target is now 208 miles a day, although it's worth remembering the record is 'only' 6,679 miles.

Looks likely he will get the record and hit his 7,000 mile target.

https://www.strava.com/athletes/1419435
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 28 September, 2016, 08:12:22 pm
And this is Steve's way of deciding whether to go for another attempt at a year record. So his thoughts once he's finished on this will certainly be interesting to hear.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 28 September, 2016, 09:13:02 pm
He went a bit nocturnal on yesterday's ride, completing 238 miles by midnight but then riding the final stretch home of 47 miles from Cambridge to MK between 1 and 4am. Not sure if this was an intentional strategy to squeeze in some extra miles or whether he took longer for the day than expected. Given that he has to finish by midnight on the 1st October, I'm not sure this is the best time to switch to nights.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 29 September, 2016, 07:53:07 am
Maybe another return into the headwinds slowed him down.  But I think this month has demonstrated how difficult it will be to exceed Amanda's expected annual total unless similar tactics to  hers are employed.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 29 September, 2016, 12:12:24 pm
We shall see, but it is worth remembering that Amanda too is subject to the vagaries of the Florida weather. On three days so far this month, poor weather has shortened her day by 30 miles or so. One difference perhaps is that when this happens she does have the option of simply shortening her ride and looping less, whereas Steve has to ride for longer (in time, but not distance) in order to get home for the night.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: sg37409 on 30 September, 2016, 03:35:46 pm
Seeing on facebook that Steve got the month record already  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: 
(Wonders: how much he enjoyed it ?)

His month record rekindled my following of these threads and back to pouring over jo's graphs.   An incredible effort from Steve.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 30 September, 2016, 03:44:16 pm
Well done to Steve.  :thumbsup:

I wonder, for a possible future HAM'R, whether Steve is considering renting somewhere in the 'Fens', to cut MK elevation.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 30 September, 2016, 04:14:45 pm
Better off further into Suffolk, and only venturing into the fens when the air is still or the wind favourable.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 30 September, 2016, 06:16:12 pm
Better off in ABROAD, where the FOREIGNS maintain roads properly and the weather is favourable.  But that's been discussed at length already.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 01 October, 2016, 12:19:28 am
last day today - go Steve  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 01 October, 2016, 09:36:21 am
I hope he has weather similar to york. Gogo steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 01 October, 2016, 09:40:35 am
If anyone wishes to join Steve on a few victory laps tonight as he completes his successful month record attempt:

Quote from: Teethgrinder (via Facebook)
I will end my month record attempt on Saturday 1st October. For the last hour from 11pm I will be riding my 3 mile circuit around the grid roads of Milton Keynes encicling (or should that be ensquaring?) the estate of Two Mile Ash.
Everyone welcome to come and ride or cheer from the sidelines.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 01 October, 2016, 03:24:32 pm
So Steve need 159 miles today to meet his self set goal of 7000 (See Jo's visualising thread).  He covered about 9.75 to get home after midnight and as of 15:00 I estimate he covered 107.5 since his start today.

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 01 October, 2016, 05:22:08 pm
I reckon he's gawn and done it with 6hr 40 mins to spare or thereabouts.

Chapeau!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 01 October, 2016, 05:23:33 pm
If anyone wishes to join Steve on a few victory laps tonight as he completes his successful month record attempt:

Quote from: Teethgrinder (via Facebook)
I will end my month record attempt on Saturday 1st October. For the last hour from 11pm I will be riding my 3 mile circuit around the grid roads of Milton Keynes encicling (or should that be ensquaring?) the estate of Two Mile Ash.
Everyone welcome to come and ride or cheer from the sidelines.

A lovely idea, but he's just a bit too far away :(   If it had been a midday start ...

Still, well done Steve, hope the thunderstorms are fading by the time they get upto your area  :thumbsup: (as if they'd stop him ...  ;D )
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 01 October, 2016, 11:28:26 pm
Any news from the hordes of spectators thronging the route cheering our hero home?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 02 October, 2016, 07:52:41 am
Any news from the hordes of spectators thronging the route cheering our hero home?
There is an Idai video on Facebook if you're interested. Mainly lots of panting!

He broke the record, and looked to be uninjured. Those are the key things  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 02 October, 2016, 10:05:39 am
An incredible distance to cover in a month. Well done.

Hopefully he’s having a massive lie-in this morning.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 02 October, 2016, 10:05:57 am
What was his monthly total? Really interested to find out.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 02 October, 2016, 12:00:00 pm
"Over 7000 miles". We'll have to wait for the UMCA announcement as they have the final say on the record distance.

No lie in for him, he's riding a 60 mile sportive in MK today: https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/152986/Birdy-Bunch-MK-Autumn-Sportive-2016 (and no doubt he's cycling to/from the start too).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 02 October, 2016, 03:33:16 pm
Yes, Steve's R & R from breaking World Records is to go for a bike ride.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 02 October, 2016, 04:46:24 pm
Yes, Steve's R & R from breaking World Records is to go for a bike ride.

We wouldn't expect anything less.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 02 October, 2016, 05:54:53 pm
What was his monthly total? Really interested to find out.

I've added an update on the visualization thread.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: orraloon on 02 October, 2016, 08:27:06 pm
On Fbook, Steve says 7,104.5 miles.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 02 October, 2016, 09:23:48 pm
Chapeau Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 02 October, 2016, 09:42:14 pm
Marvellous!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 October, 2016, 10:59:52 am
That went pretty well.
September turned out to be windier than I hoped but it was mostly SW, which works best.
The 300 mile first day went better than expected. I planned for 18 hours but managed it in 16. Doing extra miles did cross my mind but my legs were a bit stiff, so I went for extra rest.
My legs got stiff in the next few days, but then started to feel better. I think I may have gained muscle mass and fitness during the month and I'll be doing tests to find out when I'm recovered. My last day was my best performance. I was actually going for a 300 mile or more on the last day but was too far behind sleep. I slowed down and rode extra hours in the days leading up to it. It was always going to be a fine balancing act between riding slow enough to recover, getting enough sleep for an extra long day and doing enough miles. The recovery did work at the cost of sleep, but overall, it was a partial success because I did end up doing more miles in spite of having a leisurely tea stop with Kajsa. I could have done about 15 miles more on the last day but went for tea with Kajsa as I'd already got the record.
A bit of bad luck cost quite a few miles. The day I did about 263, I was aiming for 300 or more.
I got to Sleaford and had a good breakfast (2 14oz steaks) before setting off into rain and headwind to turn at Lincoln for a long tailwind across the flatlands. This wasn't a good day to discover that my waterproof was no longer waterproof. I ended up getting very cold and had to get dry ASAP. Instead of taking shelter, I headed for blue sky, which was into a strong headwind. Better to be moving slowly than to stop. I took quite a beating and was so cold that I lost dexterity in my fingers and was unable to eat, so I stopped at Mc Donalds in Bourne to warm up with coffee and eat my food. Even sitting indoors it took me some time before I regained enough dexterity in my fingers to be able to eat. I'm sure that I'd have got the 300 miles without the waterproof failure and I think I was still tired from it the following day, so lost a few more miles there as well.
I ditched the old waterproof and swapped it for one of my other 3 good ones (a brand new one, which served me well for the rest of the month)
I had it mind for another 300 miler on the 3rd weekend, but I knew that it wouldn't work as I was too far behind with sleep, so kept it steady and tried for a 300 on the last day.

The bike did good. I had the 3 Raleighs but intended to use the one with the power meter for the whole month. The whole month record was a training ride and research project on how to ride the year and test out my theories, see what I can learn, so having power data was extremely important to me.
I wore out one set of front and rear tyres (both were not new when I started) The front tyre was very old and had a defect because it had done so many miles. The two new tyres are still in very good shape.
I used 2 chains and the 2nd is now in need of replacement. I'm astonished at how well the Connex chains last! They sponsored me for the year record and I grossly overestimated how many chains I would need because I based it on my previous experience of chain wear. These Connex chains are the most enduring I've ever used and I have only used a 3rd of them as a result!
A gear cable had a loose strand so was replaced and my front brake needs some attention. I think that's good going for over 7000 miles with virtually no maintenance.
I also discovered that power meter batteries need replacing every 20 days for Month/Year record riding. I had one day with no power data because the battery died and I couldn't get one at any of my stops (I should have carried a spare as I have lots at home) A battery died on another day, but a local papershop sold me one.

The whole month seems to have flown by and I enjoyed it. I never really enjoyed much of the year but the month was great. If someone had told me that everything is set up for me to keep going for the year, then I'd gladly keep going. I'm sitting at home on my computer thinking I should be out on the road, but I am left with a lot of work to do.
I had GPS, phone and computer problems.
I was set up so that at the end of each day, I would plug my main GPS into the computer and it would automatically upload to Strava and my coach. The GPS devloped a problem (I think it just got full of data) and I never had time to investigate. So I stopped using that GPS as I had a brand new one and my old Etrex as well as another spare, which had issues but was still an additional unreliable backup which I did use on one occasion.
Then my phone and computer developed a problem (still to be solved) so I couldn't get on line, so I used an old netbook to upload to Strava and had someone on standby with their computer if that failed. That was why I stopped tweeting and uploading photos to Strava etc. Uploading to Strava took longer and I never had time to send tweets etc with a slow netbook.
Once I've sorted my home out, I'll look at the data from the rides with my coach.
I think I have learned from the month record and confirmed some of my theories. I think that I got quite a few things right and can improve on those theories with the data I have and improved fitness.
Once I have looked at the data with my coach and we have the numbers, I'll have a better idea of a date for another go at the year.

About 6-8 weeks ago, I was afraid of another go at the year but was never going to give up on it. Even after a good training ride, i was thinking about doing the year again and I now understand what is meant by a "choking fear"
I always thought that doing the month record would not only help with the research, training and preparation for the year. But also put my head back in the right place for another go. I was right. It's turned everything around and I can't wait to get going on the year again.

The story continues...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 03 October, 2016, 11:05:54 am
Hurrah! Congratulations Steve.

I could have done about 15 miles more on the last day but went for tea with Kajsa as I'd already got the record.
..

How very English.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: drgannet on 03 October, 2016, 11:17:49 am
Well done Steve, and thanks for the update. Good luck with the new year if you decide to go for it; I always thought you had Tommy's distance in you, but next year Amanda will likely have raised the bar a fair bit.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 03 October, 2016, 11:23:09 am
Interesting. By the way, what power meter were you using?

Congratulations on breaking the record with this incredible distance.

If you go for the year record again, how about using only an upright bicycle? Doing it that way, on public roads, in British weather, would be its own achievement regardless of the impressive – but quite different – things that others are doing.

But I’m sure you’ve thought about these matters more than I have.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clemo on 03 October, 2016, 11:27:21 am
Nice one Steve, you managed well even with the problems,  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:


I am looking forward to cheering you on again for the year record.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 03 October, 2016, 12:12:06 pm
Good work, Steve! It has been fascinating watching you and Amanda playing cat-and-mouse. Best of luck if you do decide whether to go for The Year again. Will you wait until Amanda finishes so that you know what you have to beat?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Justin(e) on 03 October, 2016, 12:22:57 pm
Well done Steve,

I am one of those that gets a great deal of vicarious enjoyment out of your achievements.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 03 October, 2016, 01:05:41 pm
Well done Steve, incredible.   Can I ask about your current diet?   

It seems as if you are still on a high fat diet.  Its something my partner and I have committed to in recent months and I am wondering if you are finding any tangible benefits from that... ie, less need to feed and fat loss?   
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 03 October, 2016, 01:35:48 pm
congratulations Steve, it felt great to read your upbeat account, huge respect! i like how you describe the things as they are (not better or worse, as most people tend to). sort out the electronic issues, it should be a seamless process with a seamless backup(s) - and you're good to go!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 03 October, 2016, 01:47:05 pm
Steve, I'm sure you've been told this before but you're a massive hardass.  Chapeau  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 October, 2016, 02:25:35 pm
Interesting. By the way, what power meter were you using?

Congratulations on breaking the record with this incredible distance.

If you go for the year record again, how about using only an upright bicycle? Doing it that way, on public roads, in British weather, would be its own achievement regardless of the impressive – but quite different – things that others are doing.

But I’m sure you’ve thought about these matters more than I have.

I use a Quarq power meter. their top of the range one. I could have probably got two Stages power meters for the same money, but they have a reputation of unreliability. I know that my bikes are reliable and doing a bike swap because of a failing power meter still takes time, so I went for a reliable power meter. Besides, I could have fitted it to another bike reasonably quickly.

I am not convinced that Amanda's circuit is best. We haven't seen the whole year yet, so it's too early to say either way. She's had a few losses from bad weather. I'm also not convinced that riding at a constant effort is best and my gut feeling from the last month and what I did confirms that but I'll have a better idea when I look at the data.
I think that I have my routes as good as I can get them. To give an idea. On training rides I was getting about 18mph for 190watts but during the month I was getting about 17mph for 140-150watts (I need to check that with the data) What makes a good training route and what makes a good record route is a bit different. On training rides I go for anything that avoids the need to stop pedaling at all but on my month record routes it's whatever gives the best speed for the least effort. Freewheeling isn't a problem on month record routes and stopping at the occasional junction or traffic light doesn't matter so much if it gives access to miles of easy roads with a good tailwind.
I also think that a small amount of easy climbing could have benefits. But I intend to look at some flatter and very sheltered roads near Cirencester for very windy days. I think they may only work at night because they seem to be very narrow and used by walkers, horses and cars, so I could lose a lot from traffic in the daytime. But I need to have a proper look. Circuits do have a very big advantage in that I can store food and water on the circuit, which would save time getting supplies during the day. A good circuit near Cirencester could work very well. Not just because of it potentially being a good circuit, but also because with a prevailing SW wind, I could use it as a holding area while I wait for a day with a good tailwind to Norfolk.

Consistency is key, is often said. I would say that balance is key. I can't be consistant unless I have consistent conditions. I don't. The wind changes in intensity and direction. I have to work around what weather I have. The rides I did at the end of the month, where I rode past midnight were because of wind direction and earlier starts. Turning for home too early would have really slowed me down. If I got sleepy because of the extra riding hours I'd have found a hotel. There's nothing I can do about the wind.
As long as I don' get too far behind on sleep, I can ride fast enough at any hour of the day. But that must be balanced out with enough sleep so I end up with some long and short days. I try to pick the easiest battles and try to get the best advantage from the weather.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 03 October, 2016, 02:29:43 pm
Have you considered riding with others more (which will favour using smaller circuits)? As you know, there is a big benefit in drafting once riding speeds are close to 20 mph.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 October, 2016, 02:40:26 pm
Good work, Steve! It has been fascinating watching you and Amanda playing cat-and-mouse. Best of luck if you do decide whether to go for The Year again. Will you wait until Amanda finishes so that you know what you have to beat?

I'd rather go sooner than later.
I think that Amanda may have increased her mileage because there was a storm forecast, but it ended up elsewhere, so she ended up gaining a few extra miles, but now she is being hit with some pretty bad weather so may have done the right thing anyway.
That's just my speculation. I don't know her ride plan, I'm just watching what she does and seeing what I can learn from it.
I don't think it's especially important for me to know what Amanda ends up with. I think that she will continue to improve, given the way she has been going. I've messaged her to tell her that she has 3 free goes at the month and that I think she could beat my record, judging by how she seems to be getting stronger.
If Amanda is getting stronger, then in theory, so can I. I just have to do a few more miles. I do think that I got stronger during the month and once I look at the data I should have a better idea. My biggest power output was on my last day and it was quite a jump. I don't think I could have done it a few days before then. I intentionally rode a bit easier in the lead up to the last day in hope that I made a recovery and could ride faster with less perceived effort. It seemed to have worked, though I did take a lot of caffeine and rode hard all day except for the last hour or so. My route to meet Kajsa wasn't optimal, it was what would get me there in time to meet her and was good enough. I knew I could do enough miles so I went for enjoyment as well as desirable power data and didn't worry quite so much about doing the best possible distance.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 October, 2016, 03:25:00 pm
Well done Steve, incredible.   Can I ask about your current diet?   

It seems as if you are still on a high fat diet.  Its something my partner and I have committed to in recent months and I am wondering if you are finding any tangible benefits from that... ie, less need to feed and fat loss?

I intend to do some films about the month and year records for a You tube channel and go into equipment etc to answer questions that I keep getting asked.

the diet basically was about reducing insulin. The adaption trained me to not produce so much insulin so that when I take in carbs, they don't get wiped out by insulin spikes. I basically ran on extremely low carbs for a fortnight, which had me very close to the bonk all the time. I was getting strong cravings for carb rich foods. In theory I shouldn't have been doing any exercise because my blood sugar was so low. I was also carrying flapjacks in my saddlebag incase I got the bonk, so I was riding very close to the bonk with very strong cravings for carb rich foods and not eating them! Those 2 weeks were harder than riding in sub zero temperatures in January!
The next week, I added olive oil to my vegetables. We knew I could add oil because my weight stableized.
What happened was that at the start of the 1st 2 weeks I was running near enough entirely on body fat and losing 500g a day. My weight stableized after about 10 days, so we knew that I wasn't burning so much body fat, I must have been getting those calories from somewhere and I wasn't eating anymore, so the diet was starting to work. My insulin must have reduced and instead of insulin robbing me of the carbs I was getting from my vegetables, I was using it for energy. Adding olive oil reduces the release of carbs further. If I'd have done that in the 1st 2 weeks, I'd have got the bonk.
I also started adding small amounts of (the right kind of) starch on the 3rd or 4th week. No wheat! The GI is too high. Only oats (porridge) potatoes with skins, brown rice or rye. Thats because of the GI (Glycaemic Index, the release of carbs) is slow and keeps the insulin low. I also always start each meal with a few mouthfuls of protein first. That's because as soon as you put food into your mouth, the digestive system starts up and if you taste something sweet, your insulin spikes immediately. That's why diet drinks don;t work. Aspartine tastes 10 times sweeter than sugar so if you drink diet coke, your insulin will skyrocket. You're better off with a sugary drink!
I also eat a small amount of fruit, so I'm not on zero carb and do take in some relatively high GI foods.
I was also allowed one "cheat meal" a week where I broke all the rules, except for the eating protein first.
Once I was better adapted, I was told that I would be OK so long as I ate well 70% of the time.

When I started training with Emily Cox, she put me into the high intensity riding steadily because we didn't know that I could handle it. Mainly because I hadn't done anything high intensity for so long. She was also unsure that I would have enough glycogen because of my diet and advised me to carry a few gels just in case I bonked but she did have an open mind.
What did happen in training was that almost every time I hit the top end of what she set me to do without any problems. She was surprised at how little I was eating during rides.
When I rode the 12 hour TTs I ate mostly cheese and oatcakes. I couldn't stick strictly to the diet for practical reasons, but I had the 70% rule in my favour, so cheese was my protein and fat. I think I also ate carrots for my veg and oatcakes were my starch.
I did grab a few gels at the end as well to give a boost.
Similar for the 24 hour.
My 100 didn't go so well. I underestimated how long it would take me (it turned out to be hillier than I expected) I planned on a 4hr 30 min ride and reckoned I could get through the event without a feed. It was at around 4:20 that my energy ran low and I struggled and slowed down for the last 40 mins. Lessons learned!

In training I started using a Nutri Bullet so that I could take in vegetables very quickly with minimal preparation. I only used it at home in the end. I intended to carry liquidised veg with me but the temperatures got quite high in September and I didn't want to risk drinking rotting veg. I assumed it would rot faster in a liquidised state. I did eat carrots on the go sometimes.

I mostly stuck to my diet at first but after about a week I started to eat a lot more. I had lost body fat.
I ended up eating a lot of nuts. I don't know how they are on the GI scale. But I stayed with the diet basics as much as I could. I ate protein first, usually cheese or meat. Vegetables were usually eaten for breakfast and supper but I ended up having supper on the road so I could afford to ride a bit slower. This also meant I didn't need as big a breakfast because I was eating a lot on the road. I even skipped breakfast in favour of getting out earlier a few times because I was so well fed.
The diet went to pot on the last day (and on the sportive) I was celebrating my record ride and mostly eating cake  ;D I did have a carvery on my way home from the sportive.
I interestingly, my taste changed once I adapted to my diet. My sugar addiction was killed. Sweet treats don't taste as good (but are still enjoyable) but my veg tastes a lot better. I always liked veg, but I like it much more now and after the end of my record when it would have slowed me down to get vegetables, I was really looking forward to some good veg to eat.
I'll get back to it now.
I think I need to eat more fat (of the right kind, such as olive oil) because I lost a few kilos of fat.

So, I do think it is working very well. I did cheat it now and then for time saving practical reasons and will be very strict on it for the next week or so. According to conventional wisdom, I couldn't have done my training rides on what I ate. If you try to do the same, you won't be able to, unless you do the adaption.
Even so, I still had to fill my jersey pockets twice for each feed because of the sheer volume of calories I needed. I was spending about an hour a day not moving because of traffic (I lost 8 mins in 60 miles one day from traffic!) toilet stops, filling bottles and preparing food to be eaten on the road from my pockets and zipped up my jersey.
After about a week or two, I made a point of slowing down to recovery ride and eat, treating a day as 4 interval sessions with 3 feeds/recoveries. Then I added a recovery/feed at the end of some days, which saved time when I got home.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 October, 2016, 03:36:58 pm
congratulations Steve, it felt great to read your upbeat account, huge respect! i like how you describe the things as they are (not better or worse, as most people tend to). sort out the electronic issues, it should be a seamless process with a seamless backup(s) - and you're good to go!! :thumbsup:

Seamless backup is the problem with Garmin Express when you have several GPSs.
As soon as you plug your device into your computer, garmin Express extracts all the rides from it and distributes it onto Strava etc.
But when (not if, when) your main GPS has a problem, it gets messy.
If you set up your back up GPSs onto Garmin Express, it will do the same, upload all of your rides so you either have to delete data from your backup devices every day (I'm not happy with deleting backup data!) or go on to Strava and delete all the duplicate rides.
Had I been on the year record, I'd have sorted out my "master" GPS or just bought a new one and used that as master and gone back to seamless uploading. I picked the easiest battle and went for uploading via Garmin Express without registering my backup GPS.
But then my computer went down and I had to upload direct to Strava. Solveable problems, but they didn't desperately need solving for the month record.
I have other things I can do to give me a few advantages. I'll be experimenting with food pouches to try to cut down time spent organising food and pinch a few extra miles. I'm not sure it will work with the amount of clutter I already have on my handlebars, but it must be tried.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 October, 2016, 03:47:10 pm
Have you considered riding with others more (which will favour using smaller circuits)? As you know, there is a big benefit in drafting once riding speeds are close to 20 mph.

Drafting will only really work on flatter roads and circuits would work best. I had an elite road racer ride with me one day for a few miles and even he couldn't have really paced me over slightly hilly terrain. But if I can find a good circuit at Cirencester, then I think it's a possibility.
Even if they can't ride on the front, it'd be nice to have company now and then!
Though it could be that a circuit near Cirencester may only work at night because of reduced hold ups from other road users. Some of those roads are only just a cars width but have trees either side about 10 meters high
The other benefits with having other riders on a circuit would be that I could get food and drink hand ups.
I don't think that doing the whole year on a circuit is best when I could be doing whole days oif tailwind or at least days of more wind advatnage than disadvantage, but I do think that circuits are a good thing to have in the toolkit.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ashaman42 on 03 October, 2016, 03:50:42 pm
Congratulations Steve.

Would it work at all to have two Strava and two Garmin accounts with a pair of each associated/linked to each different GPS?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 October, 2016, 04:02:00 pm
Congratulations Steve.

Would it work at all to have two Strava and two Garmin accounts with a pair of each associated/linked to each different GPS?

It'd still extract every ride fromthe device as soon as plugged in, so I'd still end up with duplicates. ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 03 October, 2016, 07:45:47 pm
Congratulations Steve.

Would it work at all to have two Strava and two Garmin accounts with a pair of each associated/linked to each different GPS?

It'd still extract every ride fromthe device as soon as plugged in, so I'd still end up with duplicates. ;D

could be solved by having two separate laptops/PCs or a laptop/PC with a virtual environment running for the separate garmin express accounts to sync. "fit" files can also be sync'ed manually, by turning off garmin express and going directly to garmin connect website and uploading the particular day's file, then cutting and pasting it offline as a backup.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 03 October, 2016, 07:57:03 pm
Steve,
Your diet changes - and their effects - are really interesting. I think everyone would agree that diet is one of the key foundations you need to get right for this sort of endeavour, so it's good to see your progress. I've been shifting to low-carb eating over recent years, but with nowhere near the commitment you've shown.

the diet basically was about reducing insulin. The adaption trained me to not produce so much insulin so that when I take in carbs, they don't get wiped out by insulin spikes.

How did you measure your insulin levels/responses?   (I hate needles!)

Cheers,
Matty
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 03 October, 2016, 09:07:32 pm
During the first year record.

We didn't see that many duplicates from backup devices on Steve's Strava account. Maybe around a dozen times. I don't know whether Steve had auto upload and sync on Garmin Connect back then.  Mostly the duplicates had almost identical mileages (within a mile or so), with the odd one where there was a big difference. This would be because one device had stopped recording during that day. Most duplicates just involved deleting one of the tracks. Sometimes the duplicates weren't always perfectly aligned and overlapped in time, but not perfectly. These latter ones involved truncating one or the other tracks to ensure we didn't count mileage / ride time twice.

The Strava API I used to pull the data onto the one year time trial website and calculate the total distance, exposed the device used for the upload I believe (from memory). So you could probably generate an automatic email to a support team if duplicates detected. Eyeballing the Strava account whilst backing the gpx up each day did no harm last time though.

So when you recruit your support team for your next attempt. I suggest as before there is some one (fluent in GPX) assigned to check for duplicates and potentially missing data as well as a liaison with Drew at UCMA in case of queries.

Not that it took long for the "Internet" to comment on any duplicates!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: sg37409 on 03 October, 2016, 09:34:00 pm
... The whole month seems to have flown by and I enjoyed it. I never really enjoyed much of the year but the month was great.
... It's turned everything around and I can't wait to get going on the year again.
The story continues...

Indeed !   The news you enjoyed it is great, and the fact you seem to have renewed enthusiasm, knowledge and confidence for the year is also great.

For now, rest on your laurels.  Chapeau ! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 03 October, 2016, 09:54:27 pm
also, if the main unit crashes/misbehaves due to too much data on it, there should be a process for a periodic backup-erase with a reminder alarm. (three p's of systemisation - planning->processes->procedures) ;)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 October, 2016, 03:54:59 am
Congratulations Steve.

Would it work at all to have two Strava and two Garmin accounts with a pair of each associated/linked to each different GPS?

It'd still extract every ride fromthe device as soon as plugged in, so I'd still end up with duplicates. ;D

could be solved by having two separate laptops/PCs or a laptop/PC with a virtual environment running for the separate garmin express accounts to sync. "fit" files can also be sync'ed manually, by turning off garmin express and going directly to garmin connect website and uploading the particular day's file, then cutting and pasting it offline as a backup.

That doesn't sound more seamless than just plug in the device and let it upload and recharge automatically. Not really any different to plugging it in and uploading to Strava and I'd always log on to Strava to check that it's uploaded and name the ride so that followers get an idea of what happened that day.
I would have 3 GPSs recording each day and keep the rides stored in each unit. So I'd have 3 copies of each days ride on 3 devices, plus what I upload to Strava. I'd also copy a batch of files onto my computer from one of the GPSs as further backup. That's what I did for the year anyway.
Probably would be better in a drop box account than my computer.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 04 October, 2016, 04:04:44 am
Steve,
Your diet changes - and their effects - are really interesting. I think everyone would agree that diet is one of the key foundations you need to get right for this sort of endeavour, so it's good to see your progress. I've been shifting to low-carb eating over recent years, but with nowhere near the commitment you've shown.

the diet basically was about reducing insulin. The adaption trained me to not produce so much insulin so that when I take in carbs, they don't get wiped out by insulin spikes.

How did you measure your insulin levels/responses?   (I hate needles!)

Cheers,
Matty

We didn't. We knew that my insulin was lower because I was riding the same miles, eating the same amount of food, but stopped losing weight. I must have been getting the energy from somewhere. It wasn't from burning as much bodyfat as before because I was no longer losing weight. It can only be from the food I was eating which was protein and very low, slow release carbs (vegetables) I had adapted to be able to use more of the energy I was eating. Adding olive oil slowed down the release further. In theory, I should never bonk, though I did when I rode the 100 because I got my feeding wrong and should have eaten during the event.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 04 October, 2016, 08:44:07 am
Even more interesting - thanks.

(and have a lie-in tomorrow! Answering our stoopid questions at 0354h, I dunno ...)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DrMekon on 04 October, 2016, 09:19:11 am
Really enjoyed reading about the diet stuff. I guess you are such an outlier in terms to your exercise and energy needs, there can't be much published literature to draw on. However, if there is, it'd be interesting to hear where us mere mortals should look. I find even at 400km a week, it's really hard going managing satiety / cravings. I ran some stuff past Graham Finlayson (colleague who's an expert in satiety) and his only comment was that at the level of cycling even normal audaxers do, we're triggering all the bodily responses that'll lead us to want to scoff.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 04 October, 2016, 09:43:48 am
I have recently gone through a Keto/High fat adaption period of 2 months which is why I asked about Steves diet.

Main objective for me was to lose weight (I have always struggled and cycling more and more just resulted in being more and more hungry), and to help my partners medical condition. (Keto has some reported benefits in reducing inflammation markers)

The results so far are staggering ... I am losing centimeters off my body each weak and fuelling rides is a thing of the past.   I am comfortable on fasted rides up to 8 hours and the biggest benefit is I have no urge to feed as soon as I return or in the following day or week.

High Fat diet isn't a miracle or a fad imo ... its just a very effective way to take sugar and carbs out of your diet.  This allows weight loss because you eat less, fasted training and then you have to decide how to add carbs back in.  For me its a way of resetting a bad diet and starting again without a high sugar/carb dependency.

I was completely addicted to sugar and carbs.  I think I have kicked the sugar and bread habits now.  Its staggering how much sugar I was consuming before even in 'good' foods and I am completely shocked by how little I really needed to carb load or fuel a ride with sugar.

I very much doubt its a good choice for track cycling or time trialing, or anything involving a massive effort - but its a great diet for weight loss combined with endurance sport.   You just have the pain of the adaption process  and you cant cheat on this diet (unless your doing 240 miles a day...then you can afford to take In some extra carbs and sugar im sure!).   Im very encouraged that Steve has stuck to it and found it useful.   Really interested in Steves comments about Olive oil and sugar free drinks too - I had not considered either of those points.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Chris S on 04 October, 2016, 10:17:28 am
...at the level of cycling even normal audaxers do, we're triggering all the bodily responses that'll lead us to want to scoff.

I would underline what TheRedEyeJedi says - that urge to eat inappropriate foods in huge quantities goes away once your body adapts. A low carb, high fat diet is glycogen preserving - as you adapt to it, you use more and more fat at all levels of exertion, and correspondingly use less glycogen. The key is adaptation - and if you're riding 400km a week, you probably don't get a chance to adapt.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DrMekon on 04 October, 2016, 11:18:12 am
Well having a smashed up mouth has given me a chance. Just from using Huel and a nutribullet to deal with not being able to eat solids, I've gone from 65% carbs 20% fat 15% protein to 40% carbs 35% fat 25% protein. Certainly, I feel less hungry, but it coincides with me doing fewer miles and more z3 and sweetspot training.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 October, 2016, 12:17:24 pm
Fascinating read, you sound as though that was a lot more comfortable than any previous efforts.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 14 October, 2016, 08:57:59 pm
From Fbk, month record heatmap...  https://www.strava.com/athletes/1419435/heatmaps/7c2cec70#12/51.90760/-0.92439

Steve, no Marsh Gibbon!     :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 15 October, 2016, 12:32:35 pm
I did get close to a Gibbon a few times.
I used Marsh Gibbon more on the year because there are some pretty flat and sheltered roads around there, but they're on narrow lanes with pretty bad surfaces. Marsh Gibbon has been resurfaced, it was pretty bad when I was doing the year.
But as I was there when the traffic was light, I used the A41 instead. Better road surface, fewer junctions and the wind was light, so I didn't need the shelter.
Main roads are generally faster for the same effort, unless they are congested. But main roads are often more exposed, so with a good tailwind, I'll use an oped dual carriageway and easily roll along at 25-30mph. At that kind of speed, junctions really slow you down on small roads.
With a headwind or crosswind, narrow lanes with hedgerows shelter you from the wind. You lose a bit with junctions, but not so much at lower speeds because you can often get through without stopping but you gain more from going faster. Narrow lanes also aren't as well graded and are more hilly than big roads too.
I think that my discovery of the A417 to Cirencester might have put an end to the Gibbon. Once I get past the A40, it's a good run to Cirencester and if I can find a good circuit in the Cotswold Water Park, I think I'll have something very useful.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 17 October, 2016, 01:09:30 pm
A link to part 1 of my You Tube talk on my month record.
There are 6 10 minute movies in total.

I'm no ESL!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9C-Sd_TYoU
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clemo on 17 October, 2016, 01:51:49 pm
I think that my discovery of the A417 to Cirencester might have put an end to the Gibbon. Once I get past the A40, it's a good run to Cirencester and if I can find a good circuit in the Cotswold Water Park, I think I'll have something very useful.
I can help you with this if needed, if you want a recce let me know, I can do this with video if needed  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: [tim] on 29 December, 2016, 03:06:23 pm
http://road.cc/content/news/214782-third-time-lucky-steve-abraham-make-another-attempt-year-record

So, in answer to the thread title; yes!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 29 December, 2016, 07:02:40 pm
Did anyone doubt him?

GO STEVE!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 30 December, 2016, 09:17:35 am
Have there been any statements/hints about a start date?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 30 December, 2016, 10:41:05 am
Have there been any statements/hints about a start date?


Yes there has.   it will be during end of January or into February when everything is in place and he is ready to start fully fit.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 30 December, 2016, 10:56:02 am
Somebody give Ivan a prod please ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Justin(e) on 30 December, 2016, 01:09:01 pm
Happy about this.

But what an awesome challenge this will be,  knowing what is required and seeing the bar that much higher this time. Allez Steve.

Sent from my X9079 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 01 January, 2017, 10:45:45 am
Yes, seems like a HAM'R attempt would be a massive ask with GB roads and weather,  especially if AC reaches 82K+ miles.   All the best for 2017 Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 01 January, 2017, 10:54:26 am
Steve averaging better than 220 miles daily seems unlikely, given his recent average speeds and British riding conditions, even if everything else is optimised. Hopefully his cruising speed will improve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Polar Bear on 01 January, 2017, 11:37:36 am
Steve is well aware of what is required.   Best wishes Steve - give it your best.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 01 January, 2017, 04:51:04 pm
Steve averaging better than 220 miles daily seems unlikely, given his recent average speeds and British riding conditions, even if everything else is optimised. Hopefully his cruising speed will improve.


Plus 1
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 01 January, 2017, 09:07:53 pm
https://www.strava.com/activities/817951237
Not a bad start to the year, 366.7km
Strava Description
"Well done to Matt for going the distance. GPS abandons ship, twice. Power meter fails. GPS batter dies. Tyre went down. Wind, rain and cold. Best ride of the year so far!"
 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LEE on 02 January, 2017, 02:06:56 pm
Is there a home page for the 2017 attempt?

I'd like to track him to see if he heads over this way again (Hampshire). I'd like to contribute, in the form of a pub dinner, again.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 02 January, 2017, 02:15:12 pm
Is there a home page for the 2017 attempt?

I'd like to track him to see if he heads over this way again (Hampshire). I'd like to contribute, in the form of a pub dinner, again.

There's his Spot tracker, Here: http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv

He sometimes posts planned, Strava based, routes on Facebook.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 02 January, 2017, 03:29:27 pm
Is there a home page for the 2017 attempt?

I'd like to track him to see if he heads over this way again (Hampshire). I'd like to contribute, in the form of a pub dinner, again.

I suspect that Steve's diet for long-distance cycling, and his keep-on-cycling imperative might put pub dinners off the menu or a while.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 02 January, 2017, 04:19:07 pm
Amazing effort from Steve (& Matt) in the conditions.  AC must be riding in almost perfect conditions atm.
SA  366.7km 14:04:47  26km/h  1,338m 
AC  380.3km 11:31:32  33km/h     120m  (yesterday)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 02 January, 2017, 06:41:58 pm
Those are both impressive statistics. 

However, while I think it is reasonable to make comparisons of conditions, I think we should bear in mind at least a couple of 'nother factors:  Amanda is (significantly, I think) younger than Steve; it's very possible that Amanda is (shock/horror) a better natural cyclist than Steve (or possibly anybody!).  I don't think this detracts from Steve's attempts at all, but I think Amanda is very special indeed and her attempt is (hush my mouth) not particularly interesting but very impressive.

Peter
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: The French Tandem on 02 January, 2017, 08:14:11 pm
it's very possible that Amanda is (shock/horror) a better natural cyclist than Steve (or possibly anybody!).

I think Amanda is naturally better than Steve or Kurt on one point. This whole HAMR thing is about (among other things) quick and easy recovery day after day, and it seems obvious (at least for me) that at 24 years old, you recover quicker than at 40 or 50*. I do not mean Steve has no chance to beat the record, and I wish him all the best, but seriously, he will need a level of dedication even greater than Amanda's.

Alain

*: An educated medical opinion is welcome at this point!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 02 January, 2017, 09:08:25 pm
That seems reasonable, Alain.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 02 January, 2017, 09:54:23 pm
I think Steve has a tougher ask, as he has to take on a more variable UK climate. 

However, I remember riding with him for a short while before his accident and then again during his successful month record.  The difference between the two Steves was chalk and cheese.  During the month record he was in good nick, lean and fast.  If you compare his average speed on this recent ride with his average on his first go round, then this will bear this personal observation out. 

Amanda is likely to set a very tough target but I am sure that Steve will run it close, barring accidents. 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LEE on 03 January, 2017, 10:52:16 am
Steve's average heart-rate is exceptionally low during his rides.

I think that's the most important factor.  He's not recovering from an intense workout, in fact (not knowing his stats) I'd say that <100bpm is "Recovery Zone" for Steve.

If a mere mortal did the same thing then they'd be in higher zones, requiring a few days off per week for proper recovery, to stay healthy.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: citoyen on 03 January, 2017, 11:22:28 am
My clubmate Matt joined Steve for his New Year's Day training ride. Now, I know Matt is a very strong rider - he did JOGLE solo in five days last September - but it sounds like he struggled to keep up with Steve at times.

Also remember George (who did the Mersey 24 followed by TCR last year) riding with Steve for a day early on in his first attempt and not finding it at all easy to match his pace.

Steve is an exceptional athlete.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 03 January, 2017, 11:37:56 am
I don't doubt it for a moment!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LEE on 03 January, 2017, 11:53:21 am
My clubmate Matt joined Steve for his New Year's Day training ride. Now, I know Matt is a very strong rider - he did JOGLE solo in five days last September - but it sounds like he struggled to keep up with Steve at times.

Also remember George (who did the Mersey 24 followed by TCR last year) riding with Steve for a day early on in his first attempt and not finding it at all easy to match his pace.

Steve is an exceptional athlete.

I had the pleasure of riding with Steve on PBP2015..briefly.
I wouldn't say he was very quick, rather that he's relentlessly quite quick. 

I didn't struggle to stay with him and yet, if I faffed with a water bottle for a few seconds, he seemed to be 100 yards ahead, then he was 200....then I never saw him again.  He's very good at covering ground effortlessly.

I think there are lessons he could teach many Audax riders about sustained efficiency vs erratic high speeds.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 03 January, 2017, 12:16:37 pm
I think Steve's got quicker since 2015...  Was there any in depth stats for Steve's month record Sept 16?   I remember the likes of ~375km @ 29km/h!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: The Rolfster on 03 January, 2017, 12:24:33 pm
Steve averaging better than 220 miles daily seems unlikely, given his recent average speeds and British riding conditions, even if everything else is optimised. Hopefully his cruising speed will improve.
I thought Steve was averaging 26kph at the moment, even in difficult conditions.  What makes it unlikely that he will be able to average 220 miles a day?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 January, 2017, 08:54:41 am
On PBP 2007 I was surprised to find Steve and tandem at Mortagne when I got there on the way back.  "It's quick when it's going" said Steve, somewhat darkly, "but bloody Nigel keeps stopping!"
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 04 January, 2017, 09:33:04 am
Steve averaging better than 220 miles daily seems unlikely, given his recent average speeds and British riding conditions, even if everything else is optimised. Hopefully his cruising speed will improve.
I thought Steve was averaging 26kph at the moment, even in difficult conditions.  What makes it unlikely that he will be able to average 220 miles a day?
220 miles at 26 kph is over thirteen and a half hours with the wheels turning

Allow eight hours for sleep - more would probably be good if he's to get fitter rather than tireder along the way.

That leaves less than two and a half hours to get up, go to bed, eat, toilet, bathe, do any admin or  publicity, plan his route, fix any punctures, go to the doctor, stop on the road to sort his kit out, etc etc.  Less if he needs extra sleep.  It's not a lot of time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 04 January, 2017, 11:55:11 am
I think most folk would agree that it's quite a challenge, and that success is not guaranteed.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: The Rolfster on 04 January, 2017, 04:41:40 pm
Steve averaging better than 220 miles daily seems unlikely, given his recent average speeds and British riding conditions, even if everything else is optimised. Hopefully his cruising speed will improve.
I thought Steve was averaging 26kph at the moment, even in difficult conditions.  What makes it unlikely that he will be able to average 220 miles a day?
220 miles at 26 kph is over thirteen and a half hours with the wheels turning

Allow eight hours for sleep - more would probably be good if he's to get fitter rather than tireder along the way.

That leaves less than two and a half hours to get up, go to bed, eat, toilet, bathe, do any admin or  publicity, plan his route, fix any punctures, go to the doctor, stop on the road to sort his kit out, etc etc.  Less if he needs extra sleep.  It's not a lot of time.

Fair point.  Looked at in that way there's not much room for slack.  Perhaps there's a plan to up the average speed by using transport to take advantage of the prevailing wind or to use pacers?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 04 January, 2017, 05:16:37 pm
Somebody give Ivan a prod please ;D

I'll prod myself, but to do what exactly - a daily, live, estimated-most-likely route from his spot feed?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 04 January, 2017, 05:35:14 pm
Fair point.  Looked at in that way there's not much room for slack.  Perhaps there's a plan to up the average speed by using transport to take advantage of the prevailing wind or to use pacers?

From my chat with him last month, advanced faff-reduction techniques (particularly with regard to things like charging batteries) are an important part of the plan.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: The French Tandem on 04 January, 2017, 07:48:35 pm
advanced faff-reduction techniques .

I think this is what some people call "support team"  ;)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 04 January, 2017, 08:26:03 pm
advanced faff-reduction techniques .

I think this is what some people call "support team"  ;)
I have no idea whether he will have a bigger or more active support team this time, but a full-time support vehicle is an excellent faff-reduction technique!

[Time queueing at petrol stations] != miles.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 04 January, 2017, 10:14:43 pm
I'll prod myself, but to do what exactly - a daily, live, estimated-most-likely route from his spot feed?
Day track like 2015 would be my request except roll over at midnight to match the UMCA stats. But that's just one persons preference.  Happy to reinstate my daily snapshots too.

(Brevity of reply due to lack of proper keyboard only)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LEE on 05 January, 2017, 02:25:29 pm
I think most folk would agree that it's quite a challenge, and that success is not guaranteed.

Exactly.  You need 365 days of good luck as well as the raw capability to do it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 05 January, 2017, 05:39:02 pm
excellent! all the best TG;

anyone know how it's being financed?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 05 January, 2017, 09:49:45 pm



I have no idea whether he will have a bigger or more active support team this time, but a full-time support vehicle is an excellent faff-reduction technique!

[Time queueing at petrol stations] != miles.
[/quote]



In the interview with Damien Peacock during PBP Steve was asked if he'd consider vehicle support.  He was agreeable to the idea.  Martin, as I understood it the funds are still in good shape but Steve may well have to appeal again in due course but know more surpluses (as before) from ECE,s most welcome
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Pale Rider on 07 January, 2017, 07:57:42 am
excellent! all the best TG;

anyone know how it's being financed?

Ah, finances.

As backers last time none of us were given a summary of income/expenditure despite numerous requests/promises.

My guess is the original whip round raised tens of thousands, maybe 50 to 60k.

Some expenses last time were defrayed by sponsorship and there's no doubt Steve didn't spend any more than he had to.

That - and more sponsorship this time - leads me to think there's all but enough money left in the kitty for a second attempt.


Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 07 January, 2017, 10:11:58 am
^ this

sorry Steve if you are going to ask us or AUK to foot the bill for another attempt I'd personally like to see a bit more transparency;

especially where last year's funds went after your aborted attempt finished
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ham on 07 January, 2017, 01:29:46 pm
As a backer last time, I felt I had good value for money; I had an interest in an exciting endeavour and followed (almost) each day keenly.

While I wish Steve all the very best, I am afraid that a second attempt when the original target will likely have been broken twice is a completely different animal, which I would most probably not support this time around. (as we aren't being asked this is a little irrelevant, but it may be useful to hear)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 07 January, 2017, 01:31:09 pm

especially where last year's funds went after your aborted attempt finished

I presumed he's been using them to live on, and pay for the advice he's been getting towards the next attempt.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 08 January, 2017, 12:17:26 pm


As backers last time none of us were given a summary of income/expenditure despite numerous requests/promises.


==================================================================================

I don't recall numorous requests/promises !  I think Steve's ability not to waste money was much in evidence on his two previous attempts.  Let us hope that he does have the van backup he was agreeable to when interviewed by D Peacock on PBP.  The faster he rides and the less clutter he carries the better.  Steve just shout when more  £££££ is needed.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: bobb on 08 January, 2017, 12:30:55 pm
Detailing what the money was spent on is just another time consuming hassle. You either want to send some money to help him out whilst he's not working, or you don't.

I sent some money Steve's way and he could have spent it all on cocaine and hookers for all I care....
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Canardly on 08 January, 2017, 12:32:48 pm
Ditto, and you will recall Steve asked everyone to stop contribs as soon as he pulled out of the attempt last time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 08 January, 2017, 12:36:34 pm
Detailing what the money was spent on is just another time consuming hassle. You either want to send some money to help him out whilst he's not working, or you don't.

Not really.  At least some people will be much more inclined to donate if there's some transparency about what it's spent on.

Whether that additional income is worth the hassle of publishing accounts will likely depend on how much he needs the money.  If he can get by on the donations from those who don't care, then why waste time on it?

(It would of course likely to be of interest to some of us, in much the same way his choice of equipment, diet or training regime would be.  But keeping us informed about that sort of thing is secondary to the goal.)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 08 January, 2017, 01:12:18 pm

I sent some money Steve's way and he could have spent it all on cocaine and hookers for all I care....
[/quote]

=============================

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LEE on 08 January, 2017, 01:41:33 pm

I sent some money Steve's way and he could have spent it all on cocaine and hookers for all I care....

=============================

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
[/quote]

....and presumably just squander the remainder?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: postie on 08 January, 2017, 07:44:01 pm
How much is a hooker? Just wondering,so i know how much to sent steve should he ask :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 09 January, 2017, 12:28:52 am
How much is a hooker? Just wondering,so i know how much to sent steve should he ask :)




 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Whitedown Man on 09 January, 2017, 05:43:46 am
How much is a hooker? Just wondering,so i know how much to sent steve should he ask :)

Is that the Campagnolo hooker or the Shimano hooker? The Campag hooker costs more but ... you know the rest
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 09 January, 2017, 01:42:00 pm
How much is a hooker? Just wondering,so i know how much to sent steve should he ask :)

Is that the Campagnolo hooker or the Shimano hooker? The Campag hooker costs more but ... you know the rest

The SRAM ones will do anything for a few quid
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 12 January, 2017, 06:48:29 pm
How much is a hooker? Just wondering,so i know how much to sent steve should he ask :)

Is that the Campagnolo hooker or the Shimano hooker? The Campag hooker costs more but ... you know the rest

The SRAM ones will do anything for a few quid

SRAM is XX rated
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: HK on 18 January, 2017, 04:11:33 pm
Any news on attempt 3?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: danridesbikes on 18 January, 2017, 08:09:36 pm
the other day on Facebook, when Kasja posted about the 11th March talk in Nottingham, steve said he'd love to attend but will be busy riding his bike.....
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 18 January, 2017, 09:54:32 pm
Any news on attempt 3?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk



Seem to recall he'd planned to go mid late Jan to end of February when team all in place and he was up to speed so to speak  !
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 25 January, 2017, 02:32:43 pm
A tweet from yesterday I think...

"@yearinthesaddle @ricosbikeshack @UKCycleChat Getting practical stuff ready, otherwise good to go. Doing GPS trx so ppl can follow easy now".
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jeff E on 27 January, 2017, 05:00:39 pm
Do we know if Steve is still following a Keto Diet ?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clemo on 27 January, 2017, 05:20:23 pm
Do we know if Steve is still following a Keto Diet ?
ask him, he replies to questions on twitter, :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jeff E on 27 January, 2017, 07:25:23 pm
I will have to find someone who uses this Twitter then.  Many thanks
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 January, 2017, 08:25:08 pm
No. Not keto.
Metabolic balance.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jeff E on 27 January, 2017, 09:12:08 pm
Thanks Mr T.    And good luck for the Year
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 05 February, 2017, 08:20:44 pm
No. Not keto.
Metabolic balance.
I have just read about the MB diet. How will this be followed when eating at McDonalds?

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 06 February, 2017, 10:02:54 am
No. Not keto.
Metabolic balance.
I have just read about the MB diet. How will this be followed when eating at McDonalds?

BB

BIG MAC or sausage and egg muffin served without the bun would be my guess... a good tactic for Keto friendly fast food too
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Manotea on 19 February, 2017, 11:44:13 pm
As I recall, KFC is Atkins - and somewhat tenuously, by extension - Keto, approved.

I used to regard eating KFC as a form of self abuse, only to be undertaken when I found myself in a pit of despair and self-loathing.

Now it's a superfood! Who knew?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: The French Tandem on 20 February, 2017, 06:31:19 am
KFC is made of (very small) bits of chicken surrounded by huge amounts of wheat flour. Are you sure this is Keto approved?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Whitedown Man on 20 February, 2017, 07:05:43 am
As I recall, KFC is Atkins - and somewhat tenuously, by extension - Keto, approved.

I used to regard eating KFC as a form of self abuse, only to be undertaken when I found myself in a pit of despair and self-loathing.

Now it's a superfood! Who knew?
Brings back memories of Saturday nights staggering home with my student flatmate, barely able to stand, with a KFC Bargain Bucket to share. Made me iller than the beer ever did.  :sick:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 20 February, 2017, 12:19:46 pm
As I recall, KFC is Atkins - and somewhat tenuously, by extension - Keto, approved.

I used to regard eating KFC as a form of self abuse, only to be undertaken when I found myself in a pit of despair and self-loathing.

Now it's a superfood! Who knew?

KFC is definitely not Keto friendly or a superfood!   You will hear some Keto people mention KFC as an option because you can get rid of the skin and still eat some hot food on the go without it knocking you out of ketosis.   It isn't going to be much help to you if you are trying to fuel mainly from good fats though.   
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Manotea on 20 February, 2017, 02:05:43 pm
Its official... checkout http://www.ruled.me/keto-and-fast-food-on-the-go/ (http://www.ruled.me/keto-and-fast-food-on-the-go/)

Just stay away from the green beans! :)

Edit: Response to a deleted post
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 20 February, 2017, 04:12:17 pm
Its official... checkout http://www.ruled.me/keto-and-fast-food-on-the-go/ (http://www.ruled.me/keto-and-fast-food-on-the-go/)

Just stay away from the green beans! :)

Edit: Response to a deleted post

Oh right - I thought you were talking about the bargain, bucket variety of chicken! Apparently they do grilled chicken now ... who knew!   Yeah that would work.   Fair play to KFC then- nice to see some different, low carb options out there.

Green beans are a staple for me... don't take my beans away!   They are all the veg I have left along with broccoli!

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 February, 2017, 10:25:49 pm
I'll be off again.

A minute past midnight. Saturday 4th March.

Pre ride 'eat all you can' nosh up on Friday 8-8:30 up at zen Garden Milton Keynes, then freewheel down to Mc Donalds MK9 1DY, next to trek Bike Store (Zen Garden shuts at 11pm) for coffee before the start.

Everyone welcome to the nosh up, send of at Maccy D's and better still, to ride a few miles with me.

More info on my faceache page and the 1YTT website
http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/


If you're coming to the nosh up and not on faceache, then please put your name down so I can book a table.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 25 February, 2017, 10:36:12 pm
Good luck Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: woollypigs on 25 February, 2017, 11:10:51 pm
\o/ happy riding !
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 25 February, 2017, 11:13:12 pm
Splendid news. Fair winds all the way!

Sent from my P01W using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Canardly on 25 February, 2017, 11:37:18 pm
Don't break a leg that man!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 26 February, 2017, 12:10:00 am
Good luck Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 26 February, 2017, 07:22:58 am
Good luck Steve. Amanda is setting a the bar very high. I am a little concerned that you are starting by missing a night's sleep. It always takes me a week to catch up with that.

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ray 6701 on 26 February, 2017, 08:17:07 am
I'm a little concerned that you're riding Raleigh Sojourn's again & not opting for something a bit lighter & faster.

However, I do wish you all the best & truly hope that you can beat the record that Amanda is going to set.  Is there a sponsor thingy again as I could probably help out a little  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 26 February, 2017, 08:53:12 am
I still haven't got round to buying Citizen Fish's book.  Maybe I should wait for a revised edition?   :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: postie on 26 February, 2017, 09:56:09 am
Go steve, all the best my friend.

Bed and food available on the south coast. Mini postie still keeps asking if you will be visting.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 26 February, 2017, 10:19:51 am
Echo that, and you are welcome to stay here again.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 26 February, 2017, 12:01:39 pm
All these people concerned about a night's sleep and frame mass. I'm just concerned for your sanity, but since you've ridden further than anyone else I know over the years that I have known you, I'm not that concerned! If anyone can do it, you can.

Good luck Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly on 26 February, 2017, 01:28:26 pm
The Worcester over-night B&B chez Wobbly is available again if you need it on this attempt.

Et bon chance mon brave!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jurek on 26 February, 2017, 03:21:31 pm
G'luck Steve!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 26 February, 2017, 04:18:00 pm
, I'm not that concerned! If anyone can do it, you can.

Good luck Steve!
[/quote]




Yes hopefully third time lucky
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Speshact on 26 February, 2017, 04:59:49 pm
Great to hear - have a fantastic year!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Robh on 26 February, 2017, 10:58:16 pm
Best of luck Steve! I look forward to following your progress over the next 12 months.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hatler on 27 February, 2017, 12:35:21 am
Don't break a leg that man!
Or let anyone else do so, for that matter.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 27 February, 2017, 08:47:58 am
I still haven't got round to buying Citizen Fish's book.  Maybe I should wait for a revised edition?   :)

I can't keep up with all the current action
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 27 February, 2017, 03:56:14 pm
Smooth roads and tailwinds! 

All the best for an epic ride, Steve.  Sorry I can't be there with you at the start.  Hope to see you somewhere en route instead.

And all moped riders should be tagged and kept under house arrest for the duration ;)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Graeme on 27 February, 2017, 03:58:30 pm
God speed Steve - may all your roads be smooth, slightly downhill and with a tailwind.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 February, 2017, 04:25:05 pm
Thanks everyone.  :thumbsup:
I have some rides in the pipeline from 60-400 miles for people to ride. They are based on roads I expect to be using so I hope you can come and do some of them. There's an SR series that works for advisory GPS and receipt validation (they're a bit over distance if you use
my GPS tracks, but they are designed to be very easy)

More info when they are sorted and that will be after I set off.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 27 February, 2017, 04:30:11 pm
God speed Steve - may all your roads be smooth, slightly downhill and with a tailwind.

I think we should get MC Escher on the case.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 February, 2017, 04:30:20 pm
Go steve, all the best my friend.

Bed and food available on the south coast. Mini postie still keeps asking if you will be visting.

Thanks  :thumbsup:
I haven't forgot mini postie.
I can't promise to visit Pompey this year, but if mini postie does one of my 100km rides starting from Trek in Milton Keynes at about 9am I might come out to give him a prize. But he has to do the miles.
I don't know how much pocket money he gets but if a Travelodge is too expensive then there is the YHA in Bradwell Village. Mini postie might like to do a mini tour of the Milton Keynes Redways while he is at it. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 27 February, 2017, 04:32:59 pm
I'm just concerned for your sanity

I wouldn't worry. I prefer not to burden myself with such a thing  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 27 February, 2017, 05:19:46 pm
I'm just concerned for your sanity

I wouldn't worry. I prefer not to burden myself with such a thing  ;D

Best way to be.  Allez Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 27 February, 2017, 09:34:13 pm
best of luck Steve, i'd like to join you for at least one day
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: crowriver on 28 February, 2017, 07:30:33 pm
Allez Steve!

Total respect for having the sheer audacity to try again. All the best of luck out on the road.

I'll follow your exploits online over the coming 12 months...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 28 February, 2017, 08:43:40 pm
+1 to all of the encouragements above. Allez Steve and enjoy the Audacity!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 01 March, 2017, 10:19:59 pm
Go Steve!!! Best to you and team members. Hope you enjoy it and third time lucky!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hatler on 02 March, 2017, 07:45:50 am
GO GO GO !!!!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 02 March, 2017, 08:15:20 am
Have a good ride TG, this place will be the poorer without your wit and humour!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 02 March, 2017, 02:13:13 pm
You mean there are sheep jokes we haven't heard yet? :o ;)

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: T42 on 02 March, 2017, 02:18:30 pm
I'll be off again.

A minute past midnight. Saturday 4th March.


 :thumbsup:

Same date as our club AGM.  I'll be thinking of you as I tuck into the duck & roast spuds.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 03 March, 2017, 11:12:09 am
Go Steve!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ashaman42 on 03 March, 2017, 11:25:02 am
Good luck Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 March, 2017, 12:05:43 pm
Thanks again. :thumbsup:

I did eventualy get round to making a quick video talk of my diet. Not as good as I would like it to be because I rushed t get it done. Hopefully it will give you the basic idea.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKIGl-7xVWA
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 04 March, 2017, 12:14:38 am
...and he's off!  Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Deano on 04 March, 2017, 12:22:55 am
All the best TG :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 04 March, 2017, 07:12:02 am
Is there a tracker page for the new attempt? I have just been to the one one the pinned post and it is the old attempt.

The last attempt made breakfast time entertaining as I could see how far Steve was going.

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: JonBuoy on 04 March, 2017, 07:31:11 am
From http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/:

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 04 March, 2017, 08:19:15 am
From http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/:

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv

That's a bit rubbish, isn't it?    ???
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 04 March, 2017, 08:24:45 am
Hope all goes well Steve!

Spot tracker map seems only to display one page at a time, and not whole ride... 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 04 March, 2017, 08:27:50 am
Hope all goes well Steve!

Spot tracker map seems only to display one page at a time, and not whole ride...
The traces done by Audax Hackney last time were ace

Sent from my P01W using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Pale Rider on 04 March, 2017, 09:14:28 am
From http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/:

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv

That's a bit rubbish, isn't it?    ???

Yes, from our point of view.

Although I suppose it's UMCA approved so does its job in that respect.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Polar Bear on 04 March, 2017, 09:48:04 am
Oh no.  Not again!!!    :hand:

Best of luck Steve.  I can only hope that the wind stays on your back and the rain falls on trump tower.   :D    :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: 24hourmaths on 04 March, 2017, 10:05:39 am
I saw him last night at McDonalds - he seemed in great spirits, looked in great shape and seems to have a fab team around him... and I met his mum!

Best of luck  :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Vince on 04 March, 2017, 11:48:26 am
I'm guessing it is a SW wind today.

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: bryn on 04 March, 2017, 06:54:49 pm
I hope Jo has sharpened all his pencils.

The tracker linked from Steve's page only shows the last 50 points, and puts them on the map with blooming great icons, not really suited to viewing on a smartphone or small tablet screen.  I seem to remember there was a much neater display on the first attempt.  Was this on a different site, and/or have I missed some obvious settings screen?

Also, first time round there was a display of speed since the last point - I can't find how to get this displayed.

Bryn
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Deano on 04 March, 2017, 09:22:33 pm
Decent enough start.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: againsttheclock on 04 March, 2017, 10:22:26 pm
319.6 mile opening day.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 04 March, 2017, 11:40:43 pm
I hope Jo has sharpened all his pencils.

Much as I'd like to do another year of daily visualizations, the service I had been using to extract location and time data from Strava has been shut down, so I am currently a bit stuck. If anyone knows of a way of downloading Steve's Strava files as a GPX that includes timestamps, I'd love to know (the Strava Premium GPX download simply downloads the lat/long positions along the day's route, but not the timestamps).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: nuttycyclist on 04 March, 2017, 11:47:44 pm
From http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/:

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv

That's a bit rubbish, isn't it?    ???

Yes, from our point of view.

Although I suppose it's UMCA approved so does its job in that respect.

I've been struggling to catch up on this one too :(        The facebook posts of videos and BBC news all seem to be dead links already, and the spot tracker doesn't seem to show the ride.    Looks like I'll be trawling here and other social media trying to track progress.

Good luck Steve, wish you all the best this time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 04 March, 2017, 11:56:28 pm
Strava shows the whole ride (and salient statistics) at the end of the day, but I think you have to be logged in: https://www.strava.com/athletes/1419435
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 05 March, 2017, 09:29:13 am
Much as I'd like to do another year of daily visualizations, the service I had been using to extract location and time data from Strava has been shut down, so I am currently a bit stuck. If anyone knows of a way of downloading Steve's Strava files as a GPX that includes timestamps, I'd love to know (the Strava Premium GPX download simply downloads the lat/long positions along the day's route, but not the timestamps).

Would the spot track points provide enough resolution?  They could be scraped I should think.  We'd need to verify the timestamps are when taken not when uploaded, sometimes the points are very delayed showing up.

[ETA] No need to scrape if Steve will share his account password with you:
https://www.findmespot.com/en/index.php?cid=209
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 05 March, 2017, 09:50:16 am
Strava shows the whole ride (and salient statistics) at the end of the day, but I think you have to be logged in: https://www.strava.com/athletes/1419435
I was a bit worried that Strava shows Steve as having 'no goal' but mollified somewhat be seeing that he has 'joined a challenge'
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 05 March, 2017, 09:52:24 am
More worrying is that he's joined the March Running Distance Challenge on Strava.

(At least I can beat him in one challenge...)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: red marley on 05 March, 2017, 10:50:06 am
Would the spot track points provide enough resolution?  They could be scraped I should think.  We'd need to verify the timestamps are when taken not when uploaded, sometimes the points are very delayed showing up.

Thanks for the suggestion. At the moment I am still trying to work with the Strava data as these are more detailed and reliable. Greenback provided some useful guidance on how to approach this which I am currently working on and I think I may have a workable solution. Just need some time to test it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Chew on 05 March, 2017, 11:41:01 am
Thanks for the suggestion. At the moment I am still trying to work with the Strava data as these are more detailed and reliable. Greenback provided some useful guidance on how to approach this which I am currently working on and I think I may have a workable solution. Just need some time to test it.
Get in contact with Ben from Veloviewer.com
Sure he can sort something out.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 05 March, 2017, 12:22:46 pm
I've been a bit busy with other stuff, could resurrect a tracking page again, but probably not before the end of the week. This would have a GPX download option, as I'll build on the stuff I've done for the TCR.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Pale Rider on 05 March, 2017, 02:47:48 pm
I've been a bit busy with other stuff, could resurrect a tracking page again, but probably not before the end of the week. This would have a GPX download option, as I'll build on the stuff I've done for the TCR.

If you could I'm sure it would be well received.

Yours was the only tracker I used last time, not least because the official one gave a script error on my MacBook.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 05 March, 2017, 07:28:57 pm
it would be well received

Certainly would!! And, I'll take the chance to say thanks again for last time Ivan. But, I guess you've got much more than enough to do already.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 05 March, 2017, 09:27:52 pm
I hope Jo has sharpened all his pencils.

Much as I'd like to do another year of daily visualizations, the service I had been using to extract location and time data from Strava has been shut down, so I am currently a bit stuck. If anyone knows of a way of downloading Steve's Strava files as a GPX that includes timestamps, I'd love to know (the Strava Premium GPX download simply downloads the lat/long positions along the day's route, but not the timestamps).

For the website last time we called Strava over the public API using an auth token we generated for public access (public rides and read only access). This gives access to all the public strava ride data including a GPX download if you want. We used this to show cumulative distance on front page plus validation links for the past 21 days worth of rides for UCMA. I'm not involved this time as I declined due to LEL taking up enough time as it is.

Just checked and I can see the auth token is still valid as secret validation links I produced for UCMA validation still works. Your best approach would be to approach Dave Bartlet who is crew chief this time round and come to an agreement on access to the Strava data. The api talks json assuming your wrangling skills include that format. It's fairly easy to understand and work with the api.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 05 March, 2017, 11:19:58 pm
I am happy to help someone set this up. We were going to do it at work but are swamped at the moment. I have access to Steves strata account. Pm me if serious.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 05 March, 2017, 11:31:57 pm
He's logged 369km, including a visit to Cyclechat's favourite pylon.  Pretty good second day!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 06 March, 2017, 09:08:11 am
Why such big rides? Does anyone know the thinking behind this?

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 06 March, 2017, 09:21:07 am
Amanda's daily average is 231.23mi (372.13km) and rising.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Oaky on 06 March, 2017, 09:25:07 am
Why such big rides? Does anyone know the thinking behind this?

Go Steve!

Day 1: get a big total on the board to buy a bit of psychological breathing room?

Day 2 (369km - 229 miles) - this is just (!) pretty much exactly the average required to hit the kind of total Amanda coker is likely to post.  Steve can't average less than this if he's to take the record.

(It looks likely Amanda will finish on soemwhere in the region of 84,000 miles which is ~230 miles per day.  369km is, give or take a mile, bang on this average).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 06 March, 2017, 09:30:47 am
I see. The whole endeavour is hard to even think about!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 06 March, 2017, 09:31:00 am
Why such big rides? Does anyone know the thinking behind this?

Go Steve!

Day 1: get a big total on the board to buy a bit of psychological breathing room?

Day 2 (369km - 229 miles) - this is just (!) pretty much exactly the average required to hit the kind of total Amanda coker is likely to post.  Steve can't average less than this if he's to take the record.

(It looks likely Amanda will finish on soemwhere in the region of 84,000 miles which is ~230 miles per day.  369km is, give or take a mile, bang on this average).

Yup.

I think with Day1, he found the midnight start worked well last year. For that to give you any benefit you need to keep riding all day and post a big number - otherwise you're only 'on schedule', but sleep deprived, which is no way to start!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 06 March, 2017, 08:59:01 pm
Why such big rides? Does anyone know the thinking behind this?

Go Steve!

================================================

Only one big ride being the first day giving him 90 mls in the bank

His previous target was 206 mls which he wasn't able to maintain.  Hopefully now with the new diet and stragegy he'll be able to beat Tommy's record and if things go super well then the higher record as well.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: wilkyboy on 06 March, 2017, 09:13:42 pm
I pap'ed Steve this evening in Dry Drayton just north of Cambridge — Go Steve!

(https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/17097378_10210253801640081_7790948679186246936_o.jpg?oh=d74671bc3d7b55e4e3b56121d5afa16f&oe=596E5268) (https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/17097378_10210253801640081_7790948679186246936_o.jpg?oh=d74671bc3d7b55e4e3b56121d5afa16f&oe=596E5268)

No flash used, for obvious reasons, so it's a bit murky.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 07 March, 2017, 09:22:30 am
Murky?

Atmospheric..
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 07 March, 2017, 10:32:06 am
Whatever happened to the daily, "It's x a.m. and the tracker shows he's off." threads? ; )
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 07 March, 2017, 10:50:21 am
I've knocked something up on the tracking front using Steve's spot feed: http://frrt.org/tg/. I'm splitting his track each midnight and treating each day as a separate 'rider', so the list linked at the top of that page acts as a kind of archive. By default that map only shows the current day to make it readable, and there is another view here which you might prefer: http://frrt.org/tg/r/1-steve/map.

Note that I'm a bit scuppered with map choices at the moment, so this is limited to OSM currently, as most providers (google, mapbox) explicitly exclude live tracking of 'assets' on their free plans. Working towards producing my own, as tired of trying navigate all the T&Cs of the current offerings, but this is still a little way off.

The spot feed only went back to Sunday when I started logging, if anyone is wondering where Saturday is - I was out on my new bike!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 07 March, 2017, 10:59:17 am
Hmmm: http://bikehike.co.uk/mapview.php?lnk=http://frrt.org/tg/data/riders/1-steve/route.gpx
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 07 March, 2017, 11:18:14 am
Nice work Ivan - appreciated
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 07 March, 2017, 11:52:49 am

The spot feed only went back to Sunday when I started logging, if anyone is wondering where Saturday is - I was out on my new bike!

I've got this as a single JSON file if it helps.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 07 March, 2017, 12:11:39 pm
I've got this as a single JSON file if it helps.

Yes, if you want to PM me a link or something, I'll add it at some point for the sake of completeness.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 07 March, 2017, 03:57:44 pm
Nice work Ivan - appreciated


PLUS ONE . good work Ivan
What was his mileage Monday?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 07 March, 2017, 06:07:02 pm
Brilliant  :thumbsup:  Thank you Ivan.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 07 March, 2017, 06:43:08 pm
with time so precious in this challenge i wonder what can be optimised to save more of it. one minute saved per riding hour compounds to almost a week* in a year. if the weather is nice like today, i'm thinking why carry the big bag on the rack? maybe one of the bikes could have mudguards and rack removed, wheels built with aero spokes (if not already), now that Steve's ligher - tighter fitting clothes. these seem such an easy wins, and still within the spirit of Tommy.

* assuming 15hrs of riding: 15min/day = 91hr/yr = 6d
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 07 March, 2017, 07:13:23 pm
one minute saved per riding hour compounds to almost a week* in a year.

I hadn't thought about it like that before but you're right: 60 minutes in an hour, 52 week in a year.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 07 March, 2017, 07:35:19 pm
The thing to remember is that he has almost no spare time OFF the bike. So every time-saving-genius-idea needs to be cost-effective on those terms. (I'm not saying that NO idea is a good idea! Just that there is rarely such thing as a free lunch.)

Unless you have unlimited, technically competent man-power to hand, then every trick that complicates logistics has a time cost. (From trivial things like arranging all the bikes in the shed/spare-bedroom, upwards ... )


Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: HK on 07 March, 2017, 07:37:36 pm
I think you'll find that the bag would need to contain quiet a bit of food as the amount Steve is stopping would be insufficient to buy and consume food at point of purchase. Given Steve's speed compared to Amanda's he has little time in his schedule to stop.

In ride food isn't an issue for Amanda as she sensibly is being give hand ups of food and drink to eat whilst riding plus her help can have food ready to eat for a quick lunch stop of say 30 mins.

If Steve is able to go faster using a circuit with food hand ups plus prepared lunch would be the way forward. He could then use a super light bike.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: wallis1973 on 07 March, 2017, 07:48:29 pm
Hello Everyone,

Just to let you all know in case you were not already aware Steven welcomes people to ride with him during this record attempt. He is keen to entice as many people as possible out on their bikes to pedal the miles towards either the `sweat pledge` campaign set up by Kajsa after her recent world record achievement or points towards Audax.

Steven has a number of routes he will be using throughout the attempt (detailed on his website www.oneyeartimetrial.com) and all these have been validated by him with points available to you for distances ridden from 100km+

Do please spread the word to as many people as you can and try your best to accompany him out on the open road offering encouragement as the miles tick by.

If you have any general questions feel free to send an email to pujut6@gmail.com and yours truly will do his best to answer it or I will forward to another member of Stevens support team.

The key message here is spread the word far and wide about Stevens attempt and join him on the road as often as you can.

Many Thanks

   
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 07 March, 2017, 07:48:49 pm
* assuming 15hrs of riding: 15min/day = 91hr/yr = 6d

91 hours equals a little under 4 days but I get the principle.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 07 March, 2017, 07:49:58 pm
* assuming 15hrs of riding: 15min/day = 91hr/yr = 6d

91 hours equals a little under 4 days but I get the principle.

If it's a 15 hour day, it's 6 extra days' riding.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 07 March, 2017, 07:53:34 pm
I think you'll find that the bag would need to contain quiet a bit of food as the amount Steve is stopping would be insufficient to buy and consume food at point of purchase. Given Steve's speed compared to Amanda's he has little time in his schedule to stop.

In ride food isn't an issue for Amanda as she sensibly is being give hand ups of food and drink to eat whilst riding plus her help can have food ready to eat for a quick lunch stop of say 30 mins.

If Steve is able to go faster using a circuit with food hand ups plus prepared lunch would be the way forward. He could then use a super light bike.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

http://www.gpxeditor.co.uk/routes2/users/SteveFerry/TeethgrinderLoopv1 (http://www.gpxeditor.co.uk/routes2/users/SteveFerry/TeethgrinderLoopv1) loop could be used in the way HK suggests. Small and helpers could ride to help into the wind and pass Steve food as required. If this was organised on say a Sunday then there could be time for people to get organised and come and help. Once the idea has been proved I an sure people would flock to the Steve days.  :thumbsup:

Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: ElyDave on 07 March, 2017, 08:27:56 pm
Steve rode across my headlights about 7:30 this evening in Ely, looking steady.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: PAC on 07 March, 2017, 08:52:57 pm
Steve rode across my headlights about 7:30 this evening in Ely, looking steady.
Not literally I hope :facepalm: ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: ElyDave on 07 March, 2017, 09:02:10 pm
Steve rode across my headlights about 7:30 this evening in Ely, looking steady.
Not literally I hope :facepalm: ;D

I was at a T-Junction pulling out of a car park, saw the bike light coming towards me.

As he passed I thought "tri-bars, this late at night, and an aero helmet? Ah, Steve"
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 07 March, 2017, 11:02:08 pm
I'm not sure I'm enjoying this.  It's 11 o'clock at night and he's still 15-20 miles from home.   :(

*Gets all paternal*. Go STEVE!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: yanto on 08 March, 2017, 06:52:32 am
Hello Everyone,

Just to let you all know in case you were not already aware Steven welcomes people to ride with him during this record attempt. He is keen to entice as many people as possible out on their bikes to pedal the miles towards either the `sweat pledge` campaign set up by Kajsa after her recent world record achievement or points towards Audax.

Steven has a number of routes he will be using throughout the attempt (detailed on his website www.oneyeartimetrial.com) and all these have been validated by him with points available to you for distances ridden from 100km+

Do please spread the word to as many people as you can and try your best to accompany him out on the open road offering encouragement as the miles tick by.

If you have any general questions feel free to send an email to pujut6@gmail.com and yours truly will do his best to answer it or I will forward to another member of Stevens support team.

The key message here is spread the word far and wide about Stevens attempt and join him on the road as often as you can.

Many Thanks

 

I see the website as http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/ (http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/)

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 08 March, 2017, 08:02:43 am
Yes the One year time trial website has been significantly updated. 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 08 March, 2017, 08:29:22 am
251 yesterday with a further 17 added after midnight.   Maybe sets up a later start and shorter Wednesday to avoid the wetness? (although wet and mild is not too bad for this time of year I guess)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 08 March, 2017, 08:40:55 am
I think Steve said (maybe in that MTB interview?) that one Lesson Learnt is to start after the morning rush-hour.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 08 March, 2017, 09:19:01 am
yep - and now 20 miles already showing on the tracker so it looks like he has braved the school run in search of more miles.   This is a great start to his year   Thoroughly enjoying having something to distract me in the office too ....well done Steve (and Ivan)

edit - actually I think its the miles after midnight I was looking at on the tracker    :facepalm:  so a later start does seem to be the case
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 08 March, 2017, 02:30:50 pm
Such a great effort from Steve, in weather and with significant ascent. 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Neil C on 08 March, 2017, 04:31:28 pm
I've knocked something up on the tracking front using Steve's spot feed: http://frrt.org/tg/. I'm splitting his track each midnight and treating each day as a separate 'rider', so the list linked at the top of that page acts as a kind of archive. By default that map only shows the current day to make it readable, and there is another view here which you might prefer: http://frrt.org/tg/r/1-steve/map.

Thanks very much Ivan. That makes it so much easier to access and feel involved with what Steve is doing. I'll feel guilty if I go to bed while he is still out on the road.

This is my favourite view - http://frrt.org/tg/r/1-steve - as it shows today's distance as well as the map, profile and average speed.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 08 March, 2017, 04:49:02 pm
Thanks for the thanks! If he keeps on riding into the early hours, I might tweak it to split on the break rather than at midnight, as those stats don't make a lot of sense today. Also will try and sort a certificate for the site so the 'show me where I am' button works in Chrome, for anyone trying to track him down.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: simonp on 08 March, 2017, 05:00:58 pm
Great stuff, Ivan.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 08 March, 2017, 05:34:10 pm
That's great.  Thank you very much.  :thumbsup:

Is there any way that I can see the map and the track and route distance but not the Speed Height box which takes up too much space on my tablet?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 08 March, 2017, 05:50:58 pm
That makes it so much easier to access and feel involved with what Steve is doing. I'll feel guilty if I go to bed while he is still out on the road.


Here we go again  ;D

 :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 08 March, 2017, 09:25:27 pm
It really is great having the morning peer into the Ivanoscope back on the daily routine :-)
If he keeps on riding into the early hours, I might tweak it to split on the break rather than at midnight, as those stats don't make a lot of sense today.
If you do that it becomes confusing cross referencing to the UMCA records.  They split at local midnight and the rules require riders to stop and begin a new track at local midnight.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Tim Hall on 09 March, 2017, 10:51:36 pm
Daft question: On Ivan's webby science page it shows text like this:
Quote
Track / Route: 310 / 368 km
Does that mean Steve has done 310km out of 368 km for the day, ie riding to a pre announced route, or is there a subtle difference between a "Route" and a "track" which shows itself as the two different distances? Or something else?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: simonp on 09 March, 2017, 10:54:14 pm
Spot tracker points are infrequent. The route is an estimate of the true road distance.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 10 March, 2017, 02:49:25 pm
How many miles has Steve covered this week and approximate end of first week.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 10 March, 2017, 03:03:39 pm
From Jan 5-9 inclusive he averaged 227.9 miles per day.

He 'only' managed  164.8 on his first day, which means his average from the 4th to the 9th is 217.2
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 10 March, 2017, 04:05:43 pm
Steve's Day1 was 251km + 264km... two entries (I believe).  ~320mls.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: IJL on 10 March, 2017, 04:11:19 pm
There are 2 rides on Strava for the 4th and he's tweeted that the mileage at the start of the 5th day is 1030 which puts the average to 257 miles
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 10 March, 2017, 04:16:15 pm
There are 2 rides on Strava for the 4th and he's tweeted that the mileage at the start of the 5th day is 1030 which puts the average to 257 miles
Another 90 lots of that and he'll be home and dry...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 10 March, 2017, 04:56:37 pm
From Jan 5-9 inclusive he averaged 227.9 miles per day.

He 'only' managed  164.8 on his first day, which means his average from the 4th to the 9th is 217.2




Many thanks to all replies
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Grandad on 13 March, 2017, 10:17:13 pm
The Time Trialling  Forum is following Steve's ride, describing his route by the codes used for TT courses.

Different :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 13 March, 2017, 10:25:06 pm
I quite like it!  I wonder if we'll see him on the V718? 

He's tweeted that at the end of week 1 his average daily mileage is 238.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 16 March, 2017, 09:59:56 am
Video update from Steve.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJmf_N6IExE&feature=youtu.be
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Tim Hall on 16 March, 2017, 11:07:47 pm
My reading of Ivan's Webby Science suggests there was a big patch of low/zero speed from about 1300 - 1500 today. Any ideas why?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 17 March, 2017, 08:40:56 am
My reading of Ivan's Webby Science suggests there was a big patch of low/zero speed from about 1300 - 1500 today. Any ideas why?

Doesn't match his Strava for the day: https://www.strava.com/activities/903128419/analysis

Clicking on the "plot against time" icon there's a stop from 8h52 into the ride to 9h20 (at the Wimpy in Haverhill). Given a ride that started at 9:57am that's nowhere near the 1300-1500 bit.

3h into his Strava ride (e.g. 1300) he had done 79.8km. 5h into his Strava ride (1500) he had done 137.5km. So that's 57.7km in those 2h.

Ah, actually looking at Ivan's webby science for yesterday I can see why. It's because the lighter blue plot is elevation not speed. At 1200 he goes over the first of 3 short sharp hills passing NE of Huntingdon and then he's into the fens. The bump at 1500 is Downham Market.

It's the dark blue line which is route speed, which is tricky to determine accurately from the sparse SPOT points and lack of good route information, so Ivan is plotting a broad guess for each half an hour.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 17 March, 2017, 10:44:06 am
Video update from Steve.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJmf_N6IExE&feature=youtu.be
That was good.  He may as well do something while sat in the office. ;D

Very positive.  Hope to hear more as we go on.

And Steve has learned to stop mumbling! :) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 17 March, 2017, 11:11:14 am


And Steve has learned to stop mumbling! :) :thumbsup:
[/quote]


--------


Ahh wait till he gets tired (later in the year! )
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 17 March, 2017, 11:41:38 am
And Steve has learned to stop mumbling! :) :thumbsup:

Missed a trick with the video title though. Should have been Shakin' Steven's ... Maybe the shaking has freed up his voice box from mumbling..
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 17 March, 2017, 10:08:19 pm
I quite like it!  I wonder if we'll see him on the V718? 

He's tweeted that at the end of week 1 his average daily mileage is 238.

---------------------------

Now the 2nd is almost complete love to know total mileage covered by finish of today

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Veloman on 17 March, 2017, 10:14:52 pm
Short mention of Steve starting again in Cycling Weekly (p12).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: 24hourmaths on 18 March, 2017, 11:38:03 pm
(https://image.ibb.co/kRKzTv/Abrabantzpic1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/b33hgF)

From Strava, copied down so may be errors.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 21 March, 2017, 04:05:48 pm
If my sums are correct Steve's average per day has dropped below Amanda's. Probably not a worry just an observation possible of interest to others.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 21 March, 2017, 06:12:15 pm
It's been a tad windy, slowing things down but Steve is confident that will change. Check out the videos on todays Strava post.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 22 March, 2017, 08:10:16 am
Will do ta.
Speaking of wind, South Easterly forecast today and North Easterly tomorrow.  Trip to Goole today?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 22 March, 2017, 10:17:56 pm
Hope Steve is OK - he seems to have been at Kings Lynn's South gate roundabout for over 4 hours  :-\

Maybe he fell asleep after a meal at the Gatehouse 'Hungry Horse' pub...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 23 March, 2017, 07:57:11 am
Nothing on Strava as yet.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 23 March, 2017, 08:03:28 am
Looks like he decided to ride through the night towards Great Yarmouth.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 23 March, 2017, 09:28:29 am
He's a cunning one. He needs 425km today after yesterday's low total. 140 up already and he's perfectly placed for a 230km run home with a stonking tailwind. Bit more looping on the coast while the wind builds?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: simonp on 23 March, 2017, 09:35:28 am
It will add to sleep debt.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 23 March, 2017, 01:09:35 pm
It's déjà vu all over again.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: HK on 23 March, 2017, 02:36:53 pm
He's a cunning one. He needs 425km today after yesterday's low total. 140 up already and he's perfectly placed for a 230km run home with a stonking tailwind. Bit more looping on the coast while the wind builds?
But at the cost of sleep deprivation.........

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 23 March, 2017, 02:41:17 pm
There's a travellodge where he stopped yesterday for 8 hours. Today at the current rate of progress he'll be home by 18:00 with about 370 km done in 15 hours.  He still needs to make up for yesterday's short distance but 8 & 15 are roughly normal durations for Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 24 March, 2017, 08:00:15 am
An early, rapid (wind-assisted) start south-westard this morning. 40kph ave between 5:30 and 6:30, and 30kph ave since then, if I'm reading it right.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 24 March, 2017, 11:39:14 am
The 40 kph bits are due to glitches in the route matching over estimating the distance travelled. There are three odd tracker points behind two unlikely diversions in the pink line. No idea why the pink line diverted through Tingewick.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 24 March, 2017, 12:39:58 pm
I've flagged a couple of these rogue points as invalid so they are no longer used for routing calculations.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 25 March, 2017, 08:40:33 am

---------------------------

Now the 2nd is almost complete love to know total mileage covered by finish of today
[/quote]


WHEELS OF FIRE
 Please can you add the 3rd weeks action to the chart you've done for the first two weeks. Thanks in anticipation
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 26 March, 2017, 10:30:58 am
I'm not going to steal WoFs thunder but the answer is at the link below if you can't wait.

www.soretween.altervista.com/misc/Steve.xlsx

P.S. Please observe sound file hygiene practices.
P.P.S If anyone has the guesstimated stats from ride 1 please pass 'em on.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 27 March, 2017, 08:34:15 pm
I'm not going to steal his thunder.
-------------------------------------------------

Many thanks for this link as I couldn't wait!

2015.  Steve had 3 distant plans.  75065 at 206 per day
82835 at 217 pd and 87129 at 238 pd
Neither of those were never going to be achieved and sadly the lower one neither . However with 4779 mls approx covered in 3 wks 82836 is a possible maximum but certainly 75065 should be taken all being well.  In March 2015 in the 27 days before he was Moppeded he covered 5542 mls.  This month will hopefully be 6372 approx.
Thanks to all who keep the distances posted. 



Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 31 March, 2017, 10:05:27 pm
I'm not going to steal WoFs thunder but the answer is at the link below i




Has anyone got his total for his first months mileage
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 31 March, 2017, 10:12:20 pm
His first month won't be complete until 4th April.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 31 March, 2017, 10:20:20 pm
His first month won't be complete until 4th April.



Sorry you are quite right.  Would you have distance for first four weeks.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 01 April, 2017, 12:17:48 am
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15LBYel9v14aCJ9kMrxFtIrE0aRVfNGaPJApZrpJacbw/edit#gid=1473182902

That's from the UMCA website but it's 10 days out of date.

3880 miles including 20/3/17 (16 days). That's 242.5 miles per day.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: simonp on 01 April, 2017, 12:19:34 am
That's good going.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: wajcgac on 01 April, 2017, 07:00:45 am
The HAMR stats are
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15LBYel9v14aCJ9kMrxFtIrE0aRVfNGaPJApZrpJacbw/edit#gid=1473182902

That's from the UMCA website but it's 10 days out of date.

3880 miles including 20/3/17 (16 days). That's 242.5 miles per day.

I think you have made an error there, it should be 3880.5 miles in 17 days - an average of 228.6 miles per day.

Not including yesterdays ride (31/3) that is not on Strava yet Steve has ridden 6070.7 miles in 27 days - an average of 224.84 miles per day.

In comparison with Amanda at the same point Steve is within 8 miles of her total, but Amanda has since increased her daily average to 233.3 miles per day.


Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 01 April, 2017, 08:55:03 am
6292.1 total at 224.72 per day

www.soretween.altervista.com/misc/Steve.xlsx
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 01 April, 2017, 09:05:36 am
Yes - 17 days, not 16.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 01 April, 2017, 09:36:45 am
Should there possibly be an adjustment for the effect that day 1 (319) is having on the total at the moment to get a more realistic average?  That would bring the current average down by 3-4 mpd.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 01 April, 2017, 09:38:29 am
Without day 1 his 27 day average is 221.2.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 01 April, 2017, 05:51:16 pm
Ooh, where's he going?  Still heading north.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 01 April, 2017, 07:18:15 pm
Ooh, where's he going?  Still heading north.

Strong southerlies today, I was riding into them this morning.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 01 April, 2017, 08:56:25 pm
I wonder where he's going to stop tonight?  If it looks like Goole I'll go out to find him, but it seems he's turning back or looping Immingham.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 01 April, 2017, 09:34:09 pm
I wonder where he's going to stop tonight?  If it looks like Goole I'll go out to find him, but it seems he's turning back or looping Immingham.

There a 24hr hotel at Hull airport by Kilmington. Mostly oil rig workers waiting to flights out to rigs. But wouldn't bother Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 01 April, 2017, 10:41:25 pm
I have re-published the donations page on Steve's website.  The team's opinion is that we should start publicising it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 02 April, 2017, 07:57:47 am
I have re-published the donations page on Steve's website.  The team's opinion is that we should start publicising it.
Is there a funding problem?

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 02 April, 2017, 10:14:59 am
Not a problem at the moment, and Steve is very frugal.  But his funds probably won't take him right through the current attempt.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 02 April, 2017, 07:37:40 pm


3880 miles including 20/3/17 (16 days). That's 242.5 miles per day.
[/quote]

I think you have made an error there, it should be 3880.5 miles in 17 days - an average of 228.6 miles per day.

Not including yesterdays ride (31/3) that is not on Strava yet Steve has ridden 6070.7 miles in 27 days - an average of 224.84 miles per day.

In comparison with Amanda at the same point Steve is within 8 miles of her total, but Amanda has since increased her daily average to 233.3 miles per day.
[/quote]


Most interesting read and thanks for figures. With Steve doing 221 a day average  (putting the extra 100 ml from day one in the kitty) on that mileage he should do 80701 in the year.  He will pick up on daily rides with better weather but he has had brilliant weather most of march.
Keep going Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 03 April, 2017, 03:29:17 pm
If my sums are correct then yesterday Steve overtook Amanda at meters climbed. Day 30 vs day 323.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: IJL on 03 April, 2017, 03:53:28 pm
Is he heading back to the bright lights of Grimsby ?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 03 April, 2017, 04:19:42 pm
Is he heading back to the bright lights of Grimsby ?
Should be, southerly today and northerly forecast tomorrow.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: marlan on 03 April, 2017, 07:33:59 pm
Is he heading back to the bright lights of Grimsby ?

Had to drop off a birthday card to family member and saw Steve at 18.00 cycling through Spridlington. A nice surprise, as haven't checked the tracker today.

He was looking strong and smooth, and  a lovely evening here.

Looks like he's heading to Goole today.

Allez Steve :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 04 April, 2017, 07:38:54 am
Steve flew yesterday, 28.6 kph is 2.9 above average. He took a short day though so slipped from 5 to 35 miles behind Amanda.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 04 April, 2017, 06:57:17 pm
I rode a couple of miles out of town to catch Steve, for the first time in this attempt.

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y252/wobblyjohn/Steve%204%20April%2017_zpssmiiev0o.jpg)

I spoke to him briefly as we had to stop at the main road junction, but I didn't ride with him as I have a cold and didn't want to pass it on.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 04 April, 2017, 07:13:26 pm
I wonder what Steve's aero helmet will be like to wear in hot weather...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rob on 04 April, 2017, 07:36:51 pm
I wonder what Steve's aero helmet will be like to wear in hot weather...

They're God awful in hot weather.   Not enough vents.   Keeping mine on for the whole of the Mersey 24hr last year was a mistake.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 05 April, 2017, 09:59:39 am
Yesterday was Steve's highest daily total since day 1, he turned a 35 mile defecit compared to Amanda into a 4 mile advantage.  Now, the usual comment to long days from Steve is it'll add to his sleep debt, so did this?  Hard to say really. 

Usually Steve is off the bike at home for around 9:30, his rest time in Ferrybridge was only 7:42 but that overlooks food time.  When at home his rest time includes his evening meal and main breakfast, he stopped for dinner during his active time on Monday and for breakfast on Tuesday.  It is perfectly possible his 7:42 rest time included perfectly normal, for Steve, sleep duration.  So I see no obvious sleep debt cost in his early start on Tuesday.

Did his long day yesterday leave him more tired than usual?  His average daily moving time is 14:05, yesterday he was moving for 15:37.  Speed yesterday was 26.8kmh, there's a clear trend in his stats that suggests his target is to just exceed 26.  After a longer than usual day at a pace only marginally improved by a mild northerly wind Steve still felt up to a few extra km around Milton Keynes before switching off just before midnight.  A usual finish time.  His rest time at home last night was 9:03, 5 minutes below average.

So there may be a sleep price to pay for yesterdays long day.  OTOH the Northerly wind may have been more of an advantage than 26.8kmh suggests. His trips to/from Ferrybridge/Goole/Cleethorps are considerably flatter than East Anglia loops too.  He could have got home less fatigued than usual despite the long day.  It's all too marginal to call from the stats available in my opinion.

Allez Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 05 April, 2017, 10:01:48 am
Thanks for the reports. They highlight, yet again, the audacity of this project. It’s awesome to contemplate.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 05 April, 2017, 10:49:17 am
Thanks for the reports. They highlight, yet again, the audacity of this project. It’s awesome to contemplate.



PLUS ONE
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Salvatore on 05 April, 2017, 02:22:26 pm
Steve sounds very upbeat in the latest video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=XOAABNcrotQ

The breakfast he mentions was at the Trent Port, all you can eat for £4.29. http://www.stonehouserestaurants.co.uk/content/dam/stonehouse/pdf/ln17/breakfast-menu-pb2.pdf
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 05 April, 2017, 08:19:21 pm
Is YouTube trying to tell us something?

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/random/tg_diet_png.png)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 April, 2017, 11:20:32 am
The breakfast he mentions was at the Trent Port, all you can eat for £4.29. http://www.stonehouserestaurants.co.uk/content/dam/stonehouse/pdf/ln17/breakfast-menu-pb2.pdf
Breaking news; stonehouse restaurants chain goes bankrupt
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 08 April, 2017, 08:38:46 am
Week 5: 2537.2 miles.  His overall total and daily average are now 7868.7 and 224.82.  The last two days of 215 miles mean Steve has slipped 13.8 miles behind Amanda after 35 days.  His most consistent aspect is his speed (kph):
With climbing figures varying from 816mtr to 2023mtr this week Steve is clearly well in control of his power delivery.

www.soretween.altervista.com/misc/Steve.xlsx
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: sg37409 on 13 April, 2017, 04:05:55 pm
Not seeing anything on Strava last couple of days - Is everything ok ?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 13 April, 2017, 04:32:37 pm
According to frrt.org he posted 316 km yesterday and is on 224 km for today so far.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 15 April, 2017, 09:33:07 am
Week 6:
Steve's lowest weekly total so far but only just, he completed 2408.6miles.  Steve said in Video 6 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2q_VFQH6fPQ&feature=youtu.be) he was fighting a stomach problem last weekend.  I would venture to suggest he has been most of the week.  Compare these daily speeds to last week:
Last time Steve was ill in week 3 he posted 2410 miles.
At the end of day 42 Steve was 118.8 miles behind Amanda at the same point, 594.4miles behind my (revised) estimate of where the Coker line will be drawn on May 19 and 611.4 miles ahead of the Searvogel line.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 18 April, 2017, 08:04:29 am
Steve passed 10,000 miles yesterday.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 19 April, 2017, 07:03:51 am
Week 6:
Steve's lowest weekly total so far but only just, he completed 2408.6miles.  Steve said in Video 6 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2q_VFQH6fPQ&feature=youtu.be) he was fighting a stomach problem last weekend.  I would venture to suggest he has been most of the week.  Compare these daily speeds to last week:
  • 25.32
  • 24.46
  • 25.16
  • 25.23
  • 27.00
  • 24.19
  • 25.32
Last time Steve was ill in week 3 he posted 2410 miles.
At the end of day 42 Steve was 118.8 miles behind Amanda at the same point, 594.4miles behind my (revised) estimate of where the Coker line will be drawn on May 19 and 611.4 miles ahead of the Searvogel line.
I might be stating the blinking obvious but Steve needs to speed up and ride for a shorter time. All long rides have ever done to me is make me one paced. I have a huge pile of admiration for Steve but he needs to take a good look at where he is going and if he is going to speed up to at least 30kph moving average that he will need to get enough sleep.
BB

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 19 April, 2017, 07:37:21 am
That has been obvious since the start. Steve is on track to beat Godwin and Searvogel but not Coker.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 23 April, 2017, 09:24:57 am
Week 7:

A better week, speeds consistently up a little.  222.18 mile daily average. 
154.7 behind Amanda at the same point (49 days), 703.7 behind the projected Coker line and 707.7 ahead of the Searvogel line.
Daily target to beat Amanda 239.5

http://www.soretween.altervista.com/misc/Steve.xlsx
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 24 April, 2017, 11:49:13 am
Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 24 April, 2017, 12:09:25 pm
Is 30-35km/h possible for Steve with the 1000-2000m climbing he seems to be doing each day?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 24 April, 2017, 01:02:07 pm
I get that he's going for the record so a comparison to Cokers efforts are relevant, but for me its more useful, sensible and realistic to judge Steve against his first effort.   Ultimately - all he can try and do is to improve and maximise his own potential.

If you do that you have to say he's doing fantastically well and in addition is showing signs of training improvements from published power figures(which is the most encouraging sign).   This gives hope of him getting quicker or maintaining his speeds at a lower effort - which should means he completes the year in a healthy state both physically and mentally(in contrast to detraining he suffered during the first attempt).

This is a bloody good effort what ever you think about its potential to get the record - its the second best start we have seen ever.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 24 April, 2017, 01:07:49 pm
 ;D  yes fully agree and a good posting
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 24 April, 2017, 01:17:25 pm
Week 6:
Steve's lowest weekly total so far but only just, he completed 2408.6miles.  Steve said in Video 6 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2q_VFQH6fPQ&feature=youtu.be) he was fighting a stomach problem last weekend.  I would venture to suggest he has been most of the week.  Compare these daily speeds to last week:
  • 25.32
  • 24.46
  • 25.16
  • 25.23
  • 27.00
  • 24.19
  • 25.32
Last time Steve was ill in week 3 he posted 2410 miles.
At the end of day 42 Steve was 118.8 miles behind Amanda at the same point, 594.4miles behind my (revised) estimate of where the Coker line will be drawn on May 19 and 611.4 miles ahead of the Searvogel line.


Sore Tween  thanks for weekly updates which are great and please continue.   I know that Steve is unlikely to get the Coker record.  However the Godwin record is the target I believe.  How many miles is he up at this stage . even if his average drops to 212 he will cover over 77380 miles which is terrific. He could not have had better weather to date and will have almost a full winter to deal with when tiredness will be creeping in.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 30 April, 2017, 10:14:22 am
245 miles yesterday, the first 230 coming at 17mph average with 5500ft climbing.    Impressive!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 01 May, 2017, 10:32:37 am
Thanks Arry-R, will do  :thumbsup:  Apologies for the late update, busy with DKttR weekend.

Week 8:
Another week below Steve's 225 target, he averaged 219.49 at 25.6 moving.  Monday was a miserable day yet Steve still managed 25.8.  I was locked in a concrete tower on Thursday so I'm only guessing from Steve's 23.8 the weather was pretty epic.

After day 56 Steve was:
On Saturday, despite Steve's very high total noted by TREJ, his daily requirement to beat Amanda ticked above 240 miles.

He needs more days favourable to going to Goole, those are his flattest days (sub 1000 meters in a day) and often the fastest.  His Cotswold route or Wisbech & back see him climb about 1500 meters.  The routes he does most are the worst in terms of climb at approaching 2000 meters.  The winds are governing his choice I know.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 01 May, 2017, 12:48:56 pm
Thanks Arry-R, will do  :thumbsup:  Apologies for the late update, busy with DKttR weekend.



After day 56 Steve was:
  • 940.2 miles ahead of the Godwin line
==%%%%%===========%

SoreTween.  Thanks very much.  Your Stirling weekly efforts are very much appreciated  (when work and pleasure time permits!)
You have much work ahead
 Thank you very much for including the Godwin mileage




[/list]
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 06 May, 2017, 03:07:55 pm
Week 9:
In a word, wind.  Steve struggled all week with consistently strong winds day, and unusually, night.  Saturday went well riding with Matt, fast and long.  Then he changed tactics.  To try and avoid the wind Steve has ridden right through the night twice this week and as a result my spreadsheet (http://www.soretween.altervista.com/misc/Steve.xlsx) only shows 5 'Steve Days' for the seven calendar day period.  Did it work?  Yes and no.  This is what his 5 efforts over 7 days look like:
(http://i429.photobucket.com/albums/qq18/SoreTween/Misc/Steve%20week%209_zpskffpynee.jpg)
Sunday was fast but short from a midday start, Monday's slog home was slow.  The payback for the overnighter was a long rest Monday night.  With that rest he was able on Tuesday to cut his time off the bike while out much lower than usual and add an extra 45 minutes to his active period too.  After 4 days / 3 efforts his average was 217.7 which is bang on typical and he'd only had to endure the wind one day.
Despite being home at 8 on Tuesday he didn't start until 10:00 on Wednesday, 14 hours rest was 2 more than he took after the first overnight.  He rode his usual pace and stopped at his usual time and so had a low total for the day.  His speed on Thursday was way down, wrong route choice for the winds I think.  He was at usual pace on Friday but couldn't put his usual time in.
As a result of all that his average for the week was 211.3 mpd.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 06 May, 2017, 06:27:06 pm
Many thanks ST, your clarity is very helpful!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 06 May, 2017, 09:39:42 pm
Many thanks ST, your clarity is very helpful!


I second that.  With his average of  (just) 211 per day how many miles is he up on Tommy Godwin?  Last week he was over 4 days up in effect
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 07 May, 2017, 10:25:36 am
+979.8 vs Godwin line
+805.3 vs Searvogel line
-349.6 vs Amanda after 63 days
-1013 vs projected Coker line
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Salvatore on 07 May, 2017, 11:24:20 am
Either SoreTween is moonlighting as GoranS, or the Swedes have their own analyst

https://happyride.se/forum/read.php/1/2582349/3151321#msg-3151321
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 07 May, 2017, 03:46:44 pm
  :-X
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 13 May, 2017, 10:17:31 am
Week 10:

Steve started the week with another overnighter, a huge overnighter: 241.2 + 270.9 miles  :o  That's 824 km in one virtually continuous effort.  After that he settled into a pattern of alternating 200 & 230 miles approx.  His speed showed no sign of suffering for the big weekend:

In his latest video update (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRVWL4uGa3o&feature=youtu.be) he said that he's about 100 miles behind his plan at this point (recorded on Monday I think).

+1114.8 vs Godwin line
+920.9 vs Searvogel line
-395.9 vs Amanda after 70 days
-1095.4 vs projected Coker line

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 14 May, 2017, 02:47:49 pm
...

+1114.8 vs Godwin line
+920.9 vs Searvogel line
-395.9 vs Amanda after 70 days
-1095.4 vs projected Coker line


Is the "projected Coker line" just a straight line i.e. shows the average required to do every day to match Coker's projected total?

[Without seeing graphs I struggle to figure this stuff out, sorry!]
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 14 May, 2017, 09:12:43 pm
-395.9 vs Amanda after 70 days
-1095.4 vs projected Coker line


Is the "projected Coker line" just a straight line i.e. shows the average required to do every day to match Coker's projected total?

[Without seeing graphs I struggle to figure this stuff out, sorry!]
Spot on. 
Her anticipated total (only anticipated for a few more hours) / 365 * the number of days Steve has ridden.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 22 May, 2017, 01:09:13 pm
Week 11:

Those who worry about sleep issues take note this week, if anything is going to show up surely this (week 12) will be the week.  Last week Steve pushed every irregular sleep boundary.  He posted 13 rides which means he was active at midnight 6 out of 7 days.   From lunchtime on Thusday he was active for 36.5 hours straight of which he was moving for 30.75 hours.  He did allow himself rest of 14 hours before and 12 hours after that marathon.  The result is his second highest total for the year, 2566.9 miles or 227.86 mpd average.  Week 1 was highest naturally.

His routes were interesting, for a change he did keep to the flatlands.  8813 mtrs climbed is his lowest weekly total by 500mtrs and only his second week under 10,000.  Steve didn't use this to gain speed, his average for the week was 26.15 but there's no automatic correlation as Steve consciously controls his speed.  We do have enough data though to see if there is an unconscious relationship between speed and meters climbed. 
This is a spread of his rides so far, speed in kmh on the horizontal and meters climbed vertical:
(http://i429.photobucket.com/albums/qq18/SoreTween/Misc/Steve%20speed%20vs%20climb%201_zpszn2qguxh.jpg)
Lopsided in the expected direction?  Add a trend line:
(http://i429.photobucket.com/albums/qq18/SoreTween/Misc/Steve%20speed%20vs%20climb%202_zpsygetazlg.jpg)
Yep, a clear trend to flatter routes = more speed.  That outlier looks like it is skewing things though, lets remove that:
(http://i429.photobucket.com/albums/qq18/SoreTween/Misc/Steve%20speed%20vs%20climb%203_zpsph083yr1.jpg)
The outlier (3rd April, his east coast route to Ferrybridge with a reasonable tailwind) was skewing the result but the trend is certainly there.

Does anyone know if the kJ work done figure on Strava comes from his power meter or a guesstimate from the route?

1270.2 ahead of the Godwin line.
1056.9 ahead of the Searvogel line.
1157.5 behind the Coker line.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 22 May, 2017, 02:35:49 pm
From Strava

Quote

Total Work, expressed in kilojoules (kJ), is simply the sum of the watts generated during your ride. There is a close 1–to–1 ratio with Total Work and Calories expended during a ride.

Since he's running a power meter, the kJ figure will be from that.  Remember, energy = power * time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 22 May, 2017, 02:56:11 pm
My last quote was from a ride on which I had a power meter.  Here's the equivalent text from a ride in which I didn't have a power meter.

You'll note that if you have a PM then Strava gives 'Power', whereas if you don't have one, it gives 'Est Power'.

Quote
Energy Output measures the amount of work you've done during a ride, expressed in kilojoules (KJ). It is a factor of how much you're pedaling, how fast you're pedaling and how much force you're exerting on the pedals (measured in W). Power output is most accurately taken from a power meter, but if you don't have a power meter we give a rough approximation through our power estimator.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 22 May, 2017, 04:32:18 pm
The result is his second highest total for the year, 2566.9 miles or 227.86 mpd average.  Week 1 was highest naturally.
Weeks are slippery things.  If take day 1 as day 1, and week 12 as Sat 13-Fri 19 May, you do indeed get that.  But if you align with a Monday-Sunday week, skipping the first two days (which I think Steve has mentioned in his videos, and which aligns to Strava weekly totals which makes for easy cross-checking) the week from 15-21 May was actually his lowest since the start, at only 215 mpd.
Funny what pops out of the numbers when you look and I missed Steve saying that.  It's surprising that which weekend forms part of the week makes such a significant difference.  The weekend before was certainly big but the weekend after didn't seem that small.  Using the strict day number week he has 3 lower than 215mpd.

Thanks all for the quotes on strava power.  I may go back over the rides and add that to my spreadsheet then see what relationship there is with climb and speed.  Don't anyone hold their breath though.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 22 May, 2017, 09:07:05 pm
Steve stopped like clockwork  at Royston McDonalds. We must have a loyalty card by now.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 24 May, 2017, 06:45:44 am
He's having a real good crack at this you know - keep going Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 24 May, 2017, 07:59:17 am
Yes, well done Steve, the weather's turning getting better so just enjoy being out on the bike, you deserve it after all that wind and rain.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 27 May, 2017, 01:57:22 pm
Week 12:

Fairly normal week for Steve.  He's kept to the fens a fair bit and recorded a third week under 10,000m climbed (9050m).  He was out past midnight twice and neither benefited him in mileage but that's not why he does it I'm sure.  He rode a long Saturday returning home at 6am Sun then back out for a short one, 411.7 miles.  Thursday he set out at 09:52 and was moving 29 of the following 36 hours for 441.7 miles.  Both those are below his year to date daily average of 221.7.  Thursday night was particularly still which is far more likely the reason he was out.
Of the other three days he was out & back before midnight two were above his year to date average.

216.76 mpd average for the week
1347.9 ahead vs Tommy
1115.3 ahead vs Kurt
1300.5 behind vs Amanda
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 28 May, 2017, 08:45:44 pm
I overtook Steve today while heading to Mother in law's house, in the car. He looked happy enough bombing up the A10.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 30 May, 2017, 08:18:12 pm
... and spotted him again today on his way to Little Downham - I was in the car again as I had just picked grandsons up.

Go Steve !
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DaveE128 on 01 June, 2017, 11:46:45 am
Late start today? Hope all's well.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 01 June, 2017, 01:40:08 pm
Looks like Steve has taken my quota of beastie bites while I've been stuck indoors.

https://twitter.com/steve_abraham74/status/870218812053958656
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 10 June, 2017, 10:45:46 am
Week 13:
A new record low on meters climbed (8794), high since week 1 on daily average (231.15)

Week 14:
A handful short of a new record high on meters climbed (12559) and not great on daily average (215.61)

Both of these are I'm sure down to the wind.  It was pretty mild at the end of May but June has so far been exceedingly vent lateral.

+1596 vs Tommy
+1324 vs Kurt
-1494 vs Amanda
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: gregblack on 10 June, 2017, 07:13:40 pm
Saw Steve this morning in MK just after the start of today's ride. Gave a friendly toot and a wave from the car and he smiled and waved back. He was looking good  :)

Go Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 12 June, 2017, 03:18:27 pm
Steve appears to have taken a 2 hour nap in an Audax hotel in Clophill early yesterday morning. After that he went home arriving about 07:50 and stayed there all day.  Any word on book face etc? Planned or unplanned basically? It was day 100.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rogerzilla on 12 June, 2017, 07:44:36 pm
Is an "audax hotel" a euphemism for a bus shelter?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hatler on 12 June, 2017, 07:45:43 pm
That's my understanding, yes.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 12 June, 2017, 10:04:39 pm
Whatever was up (if anything) isn't today.  According to the Ivanoscope (https://www.frrt.org/tg/r/1-steve) he's been moving at 29kph since 09:00.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 12 June, 2017, 10:19:08 pm
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 13 June, 2017, 03:50:33 pm
Average 29.8km/h so far today, going well.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 13 June, 2017, 06:09:43 pm
Is Steve realistically able to challenge Amanda's year record?
The daily requirement to do so is currently 243.57 miles, yesterday he covered 235.3. By a combination of speed and eliminating all stops he was home getting proper rest an hour earlier than usual and is going well today. Could he get the extra 8 per day? Probably, a couple of days a month drafting a club chain gang could be all it took to make the difference.
But that ignores the almost total lack of wind these two days. Realistically he hasn't a hope.
He's gonna blitz Kurt though and set a real world record that will stand a long time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 14 June, 2017, 07:09:57 am
I don't think Steve is making an attempt on Amanda's record. I think he is mostly concerned with beating Godwin and Kurt: Steve was always trying to "meet like with like" - hence the choice of Raleigh bikes and riding on British roads. There's also the age group record which has been set by some bloke called Steve Abraham. I am sure he would like to beat that.

I am certain that he would be utterly thrilled to make 80,000 miles.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Christophe on 14 June, 2017, 08:18:17 am
Amanda Coker is doing 360km days with a total ascent of 143m. 

Typically I consider a ride to be "flat" if it's below 1% average or 3600m over 360km.  143m is ludicrous.

She also lapped a course 30 times or so.

I'm sure "the spirit" of the record has been discussed at length but this surely not in the spirit. 

I'd be in favour of introducing a rule prohibiting the use of the same road twice in a day.  That means you can't leave a support vehicle in a layby and simply ride a luggage-free bike around all day, grabbing food/water as you pass it 30 times a day.

Having said that, doing short loops 30 times a day for 365 times a day is a different sort of challenge. 

Is Steve realistically able to challenge Amanda's year record?

Never normally respond to anything on these threads. I think the 'spirit' of the challenge is the ability to actually be able to do it regardless of locatuon/ machine/ support etc. Lets not forget that these guys are cycling 300-400km per day for a whole year. I've ridden these distances and that in itself is no mean feat. 1 day is tough. 365 days? No thanks. Hats off to anyone who even attempts.

EDIT. Would still love to see Steve do it. Even just to break Tommy's record would be huge
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Chris S on 14 June, 2017, 08:27:19 am
AFAIK, there's nothing in the rules about "spirit". It's a distance record, nothing more or less than that - so Amanda's record is every bit as "In the spirit" as Kurt's was, or Steve's might be. Riding in circles for a year might be seen as being "easier" than riding open roads with hills and traffic; equally you could argue that Steve is making it difficult for himself if what he wants to do is beat the record.

I'm inclined to agree with Wowbagger - I think Steve is out to beat Godwin in as close a riding style as he can - no more or less than that.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 14 June, 2017, 03:04:40 pm
AFAIK, there's nothing in the rules about "spirit". It's a distance record, nothing more or less than that - so Amanda's record is every bit as "In the spirit" as Kurt's was, or Steve's might be. Riding in circles for a year might be seen as being "easier" than riding open roads with hills and traffic; equally you could argue that Steve is making it difficult for himself if what he wants to do is beat the record.

I'm inclined to agree with Wowbagger - I think Steve is out to beat Godwin in as close a riding style as he can - no more or less than that.
We are in danger of splitting the record into the 'hair shirt' record and the 'comfy chair' record. It is like (and I was not there) when Hungry beat England and the ticky Hungarians did not wear proper boots - we were just overtaken by progress, the world changes and Steve is old school and more like us - so we like him better  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 15 June, 2017, 01:55:28 pm
Slightly confused for a while just now when I had a Google News alert for Steve from the Baton Rouge Advocate.

Quote
   
Latest: Majority Whip Steve Scalise out of surgery, remains in 'critical condition,' hospital says
The Advocate

“He may not be at a full speed for a while, but as you well know, full speed for the rest of us is three quarters speed for Steve,” Abraham said. U.S. Rep.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 15 June, 2017, 06:43:06 pm
According to the OYTT site he's still making an attempt on the HAMR although doesn't say if the overall or the age group although doesn't he already hold that?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 16 June, 2017, 07:14:50 am
According to the OYTT site he's still making an attempt on the HAMR although doesn't say if the overall or the age group although doesn't he already hold that?
See I am not the only one at the moment who is a little uncertain as to what Steve is trying to achieve this year  ???

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 16 June, 2017, 08:42:50 am
The bloke is regularly knocking out 230 miles per day.  His power looks good and his speed is up which is increasing his chances to recover each day.  His diet is excellent and his health and mental state looks positive from what we are shown.

He needs an eye watering 240 miles plus average from here on in to keep pace but a couple of really big summer months will put him easily ahead of the average.  If he got anywhere near to Godwins summer months you would make him big favorite to take the record from there.   As he is not being motor paced then you have to think it is unlikely but if he got within 30 miles per day of Godwins best months he would get the asking rate back to something more manageable.

Lots of ifs and buts but I think we need to give the guy a break.  He's clearly going for the overall record and is actually having a damn good go at it.   Yes, the odds are against him because he is up against a great rider who rode under conditions that Steve is unable or unwilling to replicate.

This is the second best year record attempt in the history of the record and its very, very impressive.   
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DaveE128 on 19 June, 2017, 12:59:30 pm
I thought TG's tracker must be down as he posted a ride on Strava yesterday but https://frrt.org/tg/riders?offset=100&limit=50 shows last report 3 days ago...

However http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0xphW4GIkuk1vBUF3WeNCy1puogaR4PDv shows up to date tracking - must be the ivanoscope that's down.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Neil C on 19 June, 2017, 02:42:11 pm
I too was worried when TG appeared to have stopped in the middle of nowhere for a very long time but then a day or two later the Strava rides were still coming through.

I believe Ivan is riding in Ireland at the moment so I'll have to live without my regular viewing of the Ivanoscope.
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=103081.msg2165197#msg2165197

Keep pedalling TG and Ivan.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rogerzilla on 19 June, 2017, 06:13:15 pm
Only BRITISH records count for anything  :smug:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 20 June, 2017, 08:31:16 am
Week 15:

This was an interesting week not least because Steve posted update 12 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHwnED7A464&feature=youtu.be) to youtube.  Audio only as he's still DEATH of technology.  He confirmed that week 14, in which he battled against constant winds, took a significant toll on him.  Even switching to night rides in week 14 did not give any respite.  At the end of that week he was well down on speed, sleep and energy.
Into week 15 the winds remained strong on Saturday and in the early hours of Sunday morning still far from home Steve took a nap in a bus shelter.  After the 70 miles home in the small hours he switched the alarm off and went to bed and slept for 20 hours.  He did this knowing he would sleep through the last day for which strong winds were forcast.  He chose recovery over another day of poor reward for maximum effort.
On Monday he was fast, his average speed was over 28 kph.  He rode good distance, had very little stop time and was home around 11PM.  Tuesday he repeated this. He said in his video audio recorded on Wednesady this was a strategy to get his speed back up; Go fast, don't stop and sleep more. Even so on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday normality was restored - average speeds were around 26.5 (par for Steve),  he had a bit more stop time and finish times around midnight.

He recovered a bit of Sundays lost miles on his fast days but not a lot.  His total for the week was 1414.3 or 202 per day, the lowest yet this year.  More proof that it is not the climbing that is most significant, it's the wind.

One last interesting tidbit from update 12, Steve said that he was 800 miles down on where he should be this year. That was Wednesday 14th, he was 783.5 miles down on Amanda after 103 days. 
At the end of week 15 he was:

1740 down vs the Coker line
1280 ahead of the Searvogel line
1571 ahead of the Godwin line
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 22 June, 2017, 12:14:22 am
According to the OYTT site he's still making an attempt on the HAMR although doesn't say if the overall or the age group although doesn't he already hold that?
See I am not the only one at the moment who is a little uncertain as to what Steve is trying to achieve this year  ???

BB

For the current attempt it's now simply impossible for Steve to achieve the HAMR, end of
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 22 June, 2017, 12:15:48 am
For his age (and for all men) it is not impossible. End of.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 22 June, 2017, 12:27:32 am
For his age (and for all men) it is not impossible. End of.

so his goal is just to beat Tommy and / or Kurt?

doesn't say that on the OYTT website
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 22 June, 2017, 11:15:56 am

For the current attempt it's now simply impossible for Steve to achieve the HAMR, end of
No.  After 105 days Steve was 1740 miles behind the Coker line drawn at 237.19 miles per day. After 105 days Amanda was behind that line too, by 916 miles. If Steve is planning to ramp to match Amanda he doesn't need to worry about 1740 miles, only the 800 he is behind Amanda and his own plan now. That's 3 miles a day he needs to add to his plan for the rest of the year. Impossible?

The pan flat circuit Amanda uses has been well discussed. The other advantage she has used is riding with and drafting others. There's no flat circuit suitable in the UK (ignoring that Steve wouldn't want it) but there's no shortage of very talented riders. Who fancies organising a 400 from Milton Keynes every Saturday? Bonus points for completion in exactly 14 hours, Steve's preferred active time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: jsabine on 22 June, 2017, 01:25:22 pm
Even 1740 miles is 'only' seven miles a day until the end of the year, but the fact he's 800 miles behind the plan means he's been averaging 8 miles a day less than intended. That surely can't be a good thing.

(As noted above, of course, it's still hugely impressive as a feat. All the best to him ...)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 22 June, 2017, 02:09:05 pm
I too was worried when TG appeared to have stopped in the middle of nowhere for a very long time but then a day or two later the Strava rides were still coming through.

I believe Ivan is riding in Ireland at the moment so I'll have to live without my regular viewing of the Ivanoscope.
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=103081.msg2165197#msg2165197

Keep pedalling TG and Ivan.

Yes, halfway into my ride, colleagues decided to reconfigure the network where my server lives (like it really needs 40Gb connectivity!), so faced with email alerts every 10 minutes had to shut it down - sorry about that.

Normal service should now be restored. Note that I am now (well, once the National 400 is out of the way) working flat out in my spare time on changes for TCR so there maybe some visible changes and short interruptions to the service as I push various upgrades out.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 22 June, 2017, 04:21:28 pm
yes it's mathematically possible for Steve to average 244 miles a day for the rest of the attempt (even though we have now passed the longest day and there is autumn / winter to come), I haven't seen a daily mileage log anywhere but looking at the graph on Cyclechat it looks like he's only done that sort of mileage on 13 days since the attempt started.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 22 June, 2017, 10:04:55 pm
All the encouragement from friends, acquaintances, and other cyclists does of course help.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 22 June, 2017, 10:14:42 pm
I only look at this one
http://bikehike.co.uk/mapview.php?lnk=http://frrt.org/tg/data/riders/1-steve/route.gpx
So I don't know time or speed, but today's distance looks good.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: jsabine on 22 June, 2017, 11:50:30 pm
All the encouragement from friends, acquaintances, and other cyclists does of course help.

I'm sure that it does. It's a fantastic achievement so far, it compares very well to his previous shots at it, and as someone else said up there^^^ somewhere it's the second best start we've seen *ever.*
</straight bat>



Maybe I read your post as much more sardonic than you intended. Maybe I'm too cynical. But I don't think that reasoned discussion is something to be criticised.

I think most people here are cheerleaders for Steve and his achievements and his aspirations, but that doesn't mean it can't be tempered with a recognition that, however good his start has been, it's left beating Amanda's total an even bigger challenge than it was at the start of the year
.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 22 June, 2017, 11:51:19 pm
All the encouragement from friends, acquaintances, and other cyclists does of course help.

+1
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 23 June, 2017, 08:13:40 pm
yes it's mathematically possible for Steve to average 244 miles a day for the rest of the attempt (even though we have now passed the longest day and there is autumn / winter to come), I haven't seen a daily mileage log anywhere but looking at the graph on Cyclechat it looks like he's only done that sort of mileage on 13 days since the attempt started.

My spreadsheet is here:
www.soretween.altervista.com/misc/Steve.xlsx

He has 10 rides recorded over 240 miles, 17 calendar days over and something over 22 'Steve days' over 240 miles.  The latter is contiguous rides that straddle days. Contiguous is defined (arbitrarily by me) as having a gap between rides of less than 2 hours.  My spreadsheet is not correctly adding up 'Steve days' that involve >2 rides.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 28 June, 2017, 03:35:43 pm
The Ivanoscope has gone a bit suddenly.  It was ok until about an hour ago, now Steve has suddenly ridden from mk to Cirencester twice.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 28 June, 2017, 03:40:39 pm
Sorry, tried to update the code over my lunch break and it all went a bit pear shaped just before I was called into an interview. Should be ok now.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 28 June, 2017, 03:53:53 pm
It is thanks.  Looks like a jaunt to the Cotswolds today and a return tomorrow? Making use of the NE winds today and a westerly tomorrow?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 28 June, 2017, 06:05:12 pm
Thanks Ivan.  Really appreciate your time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: 24hourmaths on 28 June, 2017, 10:50:29 pm
I had the pleasure of speaking to Steve on the phone this morning for 10 minutes or so. He seemed in good spirits but is very stressed about his powermeter(s) - they seem to be continually cutting out due to a bad signal and he can't work out why. He's been moving them around his bars and has managed to make the signal better temporarily but with no permanent solution, he also seems to think that they have drifted to be up to 20W out from where they should be.

I was only able to suggest that it might be the battery but he says the batteries are being changed every 10-12 days so it's not that. He is even considering riding with his Garmin in his sock, which seems to kind of defeat the point of having the Garmin in the first place.

He has Stages PMs and the problem is repeated across two of his bikes, which I presume have different PM units on. If anyone has any constructive suggestions then i am sure that he would be all ears... although he is fairly hard to get hold of  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 28 June, 2017, 11:00:05 pm
None of that last post made any sense to me, other than that Steve is having trouble with a particular bit of kit.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 29 June, 2017, 12:28:21 am
Wireless voodoo pixie dust strikes again...

Closest thing I can come to a constructive suggestion is whether there might be another piece of kit putting out enough RF noise to interfere with the connection.  I'm thinking USB battery packs or something else with a switching regulator (presumably not going to be lights at this time of year).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 29 June, 2017, 12:44:08 am
Steve regularly rides well into the night.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 29 June, 2017, 01:47:20 pm
Steve regularly rides well into the night.

Sure, but he'll be doing plenty of daytime mileage with the lights off, so if it were a lighting-related problem he'd probably have noticed that the power meter stops working when he turns the lights on.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 30 June, 2017, 09:40:54 am
Steve regularly rides well into the night.

Sure, but he'll be doing plenty of daytime mileage with the lights off, so if it were a lighting-related problem he'd probably have noticed that the power meter stops working when he turns the lights on.

How does that change riding summer or winter?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: lahoski on 30 June, 2017, 11:49:47 am

How does that change riding summer or winter?
Cos there are more daylight hours in summer than winter? And one might run lights constantly in winter to counteract the gloom. In summer one would be more likely to switch one's light on halfway through the that day's ride?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 30 June, 2017, 01:40:41 pm

How does that change riding summer or winter?
Cos there are more daylight hours in summer than winter? And one might run lights constantly in winter to counteract the gloom. In summer one would be more likely to switch one's light on halfway through the that day's ride?

That's what I mean, yes.  Anyway, it's just a stab in the, erm, dark.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 30 June, 2017, 01:46:48 pm
Could someone please let Steve know he forgot to reset his computer on Wednesday early hours. His main ride on Wednesday on Strava (Corinium) includes the short ride home after midnight Tuesday. If he's submitted those same files to UMCA he's doubled up on 9.9 km. It would be a shame to see those files excluded.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 30 June, 2017, 11:46:16 pm
regarding his power meter - which version is he using? if v1, then it's possible that one of the three "legs" on the battery cover broke off and the battery is not pressed against the contacts sufficiently and the unit shuts down. in that case i'd stock up on spare covers.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 18 July, 2017, 08:35:49 am
I've just listened to Steve's latest video, and he seems to be having a tough time at the moment.

If you get the chance, go for a ride with him or cheer him on.

He comes this way often, but it always seems to be when I am picking up Mrs WJ from work, or with the grandsons, or I've just missed him.  >:(
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 18 July, 2017, 09:04:41 am
I've just listened to Steve's latest video, and he seems to be having a tough time at the moment.

If you get the chance, go for a ride with him or cheer him on.

He comes this way often, but it always seems to be when I am picking up Mrs WJ from work, or with the grandsons, or I've just missed him.  >:(
Is he having any involvement with LEL?

(I've given up trying to meet him on the road - last time he came quite close to here several times, but always when I was at work. :\ )
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rob on 18 July, 2017, 09:13:13 am
Should see him on the 24hr a few times this weekend, hopefully.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 18 July, 2017, 07:25:51 pm
Well, I just sat down with a cup of coffee this afternoon, looked at Steve's tracker, and saw he was at the end of the road - about 1/4 mile away.  :o

I quickly changed into cycling gear, got the fast bike out, and set off in pursuit.

It took me about 4 miles to catch him on the A10, and we turned off onto a quieter road so we could have a chat.

He's hoping that by going easy for a while, he will recover and be able to develop more power. We U turned at around 95 miles for Steve, and retraced the route. He will aim to take a slightly longer homeward route, but thinks he will end up with a 'short' (210mile) day!

I think it cheered him up lots having someone to ride with.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 18 July, 2017, 07:43:51 pm
I also listened to the youtube thing... he was going on about having left the rubbish for weeks and maggots and possibly having caught something out of poor hygiene...
Does ho not have anybody who looks after things for him? Like laundry, cleaning the house, doing the shopping, possibly cooking... are these attempts that cash strapped?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 18 July, 2017, 08:03:37 pm
I also listened to the youtube thing... he was going on about having left the rubbish for weeks and maggots and possibly having caught something out of poor hygiene...
Does ho not have anybody who looks after things for him? Like laundry, cleaning the house, doing the shopping, possibly cooking... are these attempts that cash strapped?

I think it's probably more a case of volunteers (or lack of) than money.  For his first attempt there was a team looking after things at base camp - at least some of the time.  As we have gone on to a second and now third attempt perhaps some of that support is unsustainable for the volunteers.  A year of one's life is one thing, but 2 or 3?

The successful challengers have had unlimited family support - something money just couldn't buy.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 18 July, 2017, 08:23:44 pm

The successful challengers have had unlimited family support - something money just couldn't buy.

I see, that makes all the difference... anything on that scale can only be a team effort. As I understand, given the low average sped compared to AC, he spends anything upward of 14 hours a day on the saddle... add 8-9 hours a day in bed, that leaves very little time for anything else.. he needs someone to organise everything for him.

It would be different he was riding around a track at 32 km/h... then he could be done in 10-12 hours a day and have more time
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 18 July, 2017, 09:40:00 pm
Steve's local volunteers have jobs and family, so can't devote an enormous amount of time to him.  His Mum is doing quite a bit, including collating his finances.

This is the toughest of tough challenges.  Remember Kurt calling for a mobile saline drip? Or Alicia going off for heart tests? 

I have just put up a list of donors to the current attempt on the website.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 18 July, 2017, 09:51:24 pm
Does Steve need donations?   Has the. money run out?  Just say.  Happy to help.  In a small way.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 July, 2017, 10:10:07 pm
I'll chip in again, (especially after not chipping in again as much as planned first time round  :-[). Alas I haven't the time or transport to help out physically but if a few chipped in we could at least get someone round to tidy up the place and whatnot surely?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 18 July, 2017, 10:24:03 pm
We don't think he has quite enough to get him through the entire attempt, even though Steve is remarkably parsimonious.  Things that can eat into money happen, such as his phone just recently succumbing to the rain. It's the one he uses mostly to upload the data, so also a time sink.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 July, 2017, 10:28:45 pm
Assuming of course he wants someone in - wouldn't want to sound like I'm making choices for him.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 18 July, 2017, 10:32:58 pm
Assuming of course he wants someone in - wouldn't want to sound like I'm making choices for him.

It's possibly an option.  But again that would cost a surprising amount.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 July, 2017, 10:40:58 pm
That's true - I imagine even a couple hours a week ain't cheap :(
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 18 July, 2017, 10:45:47 pm
Ok.  What are the  details we need to send to?  Don't send me  to a website.  I cant be dealing with  a website on this phone.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 19 July, 2017, 08:38:00 am
I've PM'd Basil with the details from the website ( http://oneyeartimetrial.org.uk/donate )

They don't need to be repeated/posted publicly here.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 19 July, 2017, 08:38:18 am
Oh, and I'll start up my standing order again.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 19 July, 2017, 08:41:59 am
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 19 July, 2017, 08:16:28 pm
Oh, and I'll start up my standing order again.
Done also.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 20 July, 2017, 09:23:40 am
And another.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 20 July, 2017, 06:44:16 pm
Has 'Spot' not been fed today?

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 21 July, 2017, 09:41:16 am
Has 'Spot' not been fed today?

Looks like it's not worked for a couple of days.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 21 July, 2017, 07:01:29 pm
He's up & running riding again today  - off to the 24 Hr time trials.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 25 July, 2017, 01:04:21 pm
Where he seems to have been quite successful.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 26 July, 2017, 07:12:05 pm
Where he seems to have been quite successful.



388 miles
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: cygnet on 27 July, 2017, 05:20:26 pm
Team champions
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 30 July, 2017, 09:21:50 am
Week 15:

This was an interesting week not least because Steve posted update 12 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHwnED7A464&feature=youtu.be) to youtube.  Au

1740 down vs the Coker line
1280 ahead of the Searvogel line
1571 ahead of the Godwin line



Sore tween  please could you give an update on his mileage and how far ahead of the Godwin mileage he is at the moment.  Many thanks



Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Phil W on 31 July, 2017, 10:18:13 pm
Steve was fed in the Spalding control yesterday. Piccie on FB, Steves account. Shared to LEL group.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: swampthing on 01 August, 2017, 01:37:43 pm
Week 15:

This was an interesting week not least because Steve posted update 12 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHwnED7A464&feature=youtu.be) to youtube.  Au

1740 down vs the Coker line
1280 ahead of the Searvogel line
1571 ahead of the Godwin line



Sore tween  please could you give an update on his mileage and how far ahead of the Godwin mileage he is at the moment.  Many thanks

Steve rode 6603 miles in July. That was Steve's weakest month so far with an average of 213.0 miles/ day.

He is 2019 miles ahead of the Godwin-line
and   2706 miles beheind the Coker-line.

Steve's monthly Strava-data:

Month   hours/ day      miles/ hour   miles/ day
Mrz 17   14,2             15,9                   224,7
Apr 17   13,6             16,1                   219,7
Mai 17   13,8             16,2                   222,7
Jun 17   13,5             16,0                   216,1
Jul 17    13,4             15,9                   213,0
(All data taken from Strava, rides until July 31st)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 01 August, 2017, 02:33:48 pm
Getting slower in the summer?  That doesn't look good.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 August, 2017, 06:32:39 am
Getting slower in the summer?  That doesn't look good.

I thought it weird too... but then again, you need to be a bit weird to do these sorts of things.

He had some minor health problems earlier in July, which probably account for the lower mileage. Certainly it looks like he has completely given up on the record and he is focussed on beating Godwin only.
I suppose if one day they split the record between open roads and close circuit, then his attempt might be vindicated... as things stand, it is difficult to see a point in it TBH
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 02 August, 2017, 09:12:20 am
Getting slower in the summer?  That doesn't look good.

I thought it weird too... but then again, you need to be a bit weird to do these sorts of things.

He had some minor health problems earlier in July, which probably account for the lower mileage. Certainly it looks like he has completely given up on the record and he is focussed on beating Godwin only.
I suppose if one day they split the record between open roads and close circuit, then his attempt might be vindicated... as things stand, it is difficult to see a point in it TBH


I completely disagree with your last statement. 

He is on course for the second best year ever.   You might as well say there has been no point in the entire history of the year record other than Coker and her ride around Flatwoods.   Are we really now saying no one should bother with The Year unless they stage it on closed roads where they can enlist the help of local cyclists, friends and family?   If so that is a shame because that is not what The Year is about for me.   I'm not knocking Coker, but if you look at the history of the Year it is not always the record holders who have been the most interesting competitors.

If he sees this out and doesn't get slower then he will set several records for his gender and age.  It will also be a record on these shores and this continent.   

He's clearly learnt from his first attempt and got better while being more self sufficient.   I don't see anyone else out performing him other than Coker and I don't see anyone stepping up to do so.   Why is that?   Probably because Steve is doing about as well as you can do while keeping a more traditional approach to the record.    If you are funding him and do not think its worth it then by all means stop.   Otherwise, what more do you want from him?  The point of it for me is that he is doing it, he reignited it and its interesting.   Much more interesting than him working a normal job and not doing any of this.   If he beats Kurt then it could be the catalyst for him having a go on closed roads or for inspiring a younger, faster rider to beat the Coker record on these shores.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 August, 2017, 10:17:16 am
Getting slower in the summer?  That doesn't look good.

I thought it weird too... but then again, you need to be a bit weird to do these sorts of things.

He had some minor health problems earlier in July, which probably account for the lower mileage. Certainly it looks like he has completely given up on the record and he is focussed on beating Godwin only.
I suppose if one day they split the record between open roads and close circuit, then his attempt might be vindicated... as things stand, it is difficult to see a point in it TBH


I completely disagree with your last statement. 

He is on course for the second best year ever.   You might as well say there has been no point in the entire history of the year record other than Coker and her ride around Flatwoods.   Are we really now saying no one should bother with The Year unless they stage it on closed roads where they can enlist the help of local cyclists, friends and family?   If so that is a shame because that is not what The Year is about for me.   I'm not knocking Coker, but if you look at the history of the Year it is not always the record holders who have been the most interesting competitors.

If he sees this out and doesn't get slower then he will set several records for his gender and age.  It will also be a record on these shores and this continent.   

He's clearly learnt from his first attempt and got better while being more self sufficient.   I don't see anyone else out performing him other than Coker and I don't see anyone stepping up to do so.   Why is that?   Probably because Steve is doing about as well as you can do while keeping a more traditional approach to the record.    If you are funding him and do not think its worth it then by all means stop.   Otherwise, what more do you want from him?  The point of it for me is that he is doing it, he reignited it and its interesting.   Much more interesting than him working a normal job and not doing any of this.   If he beats Kurt then it could be the catalyst for him having a go on closed roads or for inspiring a younger, faster rider to beat the Coker record on these shores.

I agree with you...

Correct me if I am wrong, but this started as an attempt to set a new record, knowing that AC was going to set a new record in the meantime (I don't think he budgeted for her to blow up). Now a new record seems out of reach and it has been so for quite some time, so it is not clear to me what has become of this attempt. Age category record? Male only record? British Record?

It is out of question that many people, including myself, will see SA attempt as being a more realistic proposition than looping in a closed circuit, but as things stand, it is not a record attempt.

I still enjoy following it on Strava...  :)

Maybe a couple of lines on his website to explain how things are panning out and what is the new target would go a long way
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 02 August, 2017, 12:43:11 pm
I for one would rather spend a year working (even if it was stacking shelves) than riding 200+ miles a day so if Steve is willing to keep the attempt going and peeps continue to fund him good for him, he's pared his expenses right down now from what I can see with loops from home almost every day rather than long transits with overnight stops. Someone just needs to state what the attempt now is.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 02 August, 2017, 01:00:58 pm
I understand what you are saying.... but its pretty easy to see what the attempt is from the number of miles he is doing every day.   He is looking to beat Kurt and take the records that will come with that.

I don't get why he needs to make a statement about it?

I too would rather work - but that's the point isn't it?   Not many people have the mentality to do this and Steve is a few months away from writing himself into ultra distance history.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 August, 2017, 01:26:13 pm

I don't get why he needs to make a statement about it?


He doesn't have to do anything... but that's not the point. He might WANT to do something about it thought... he has a lot of followers, but he is not Jesus and cannot rely on a number of disciples writing his memoir for the generations to come. It's up to him to keep the ball rolling (and the funding that comes with it). I would like to think that he has a plan that extends beyond March the3rd 2018... I think a lot when I ride and I am sure he does too... maybe a book? Whichever the plan is, it's easier to sell something that has clarity rather than something which is unclear.

I would buy his book (provided he doesn't spend a whole chapter talking about maggots in his rubbish bin  :demon:  ) if there is an interesting narrative... at the moment I don't have clear what this story is about.

At no point I had the impression he was after AC record (except after day one, when he posted a mega 500 km ride), but that's what his website suggests... I quote:

"Steve set off at a minute past midnight on the 4th of March 2017.  This was the start of his third attempt on the HAM'R record"

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 02 August, 2017, 04:16:51 pm
At no point I had the impression he was after AC record (except after day one, when he posted a mega 500 km ride), but that's what his website suggests... I quote:

"Steve set off at a minute past midnight on the 4th of March 2017.  This was the start of his third attempt on the HAM'R record"
My understanding - possibly wrong - of the HAMR rules, is that he doesn't need to beat AC's distance to set a new record.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 02 August, 2017, 04:49:25 pm
If Steve's ahead of the Searvogel line (?), he's in line for the mens & age group HAM'R, & Tommy Godwin's record on UK roads - which will all be a big achievement.  I guess he knows that the Coker record is probably out of reach.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 02 August, 2017, 05:44:42 pm
Yebbut who cares about age group records?  They're something to keep older triathletes happy; medals for everyone.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 02 August, 2017, 06:07:22 pm
Yebbut who cares about age group records?  They're something to keep older triathletes happy; medals for everyone.

especially as the Men's record is currently held by someone quite a bit older than Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 02 August, 2017, 08:25:34 pm
What motivates Steve? Steve knows.

I'm still very interested in how he gets on. Take nothing away from Amanda Coker. She achieved something mind-blowing.

Steve, at the outset, tried to emulate, and beat, Godwin. To an extent at least, he uses bikes which were comparable to the 1939 equivalent. He has stuck to roads and mixed it with traffic. The distinction between Amanda's and Steve's attempts will not be acknowledged by the UMCA, for the purposes of the record. Those of us who take an interest recognise that there's a distinction.

TBH, without wishing to be too abrasive, I'm not sure why people are posting on a thread about Steve's latest attempt just to belittle it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 August, 2017, 09:06:33 pm


TBH, without wishing to be too abrasive, I'm not sure why people are posting on a thread about Steve's latest attempt just to belittle it.

In my case not belittle, just understand... for instance I was not aware there is more than just one record to play for... although it's still not fully clear to me whether other categories other than "the record" really exist.. the UMCA website is quite minimal
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 02 August, 2017, 10:52:11 pm
I don't think anyone on here is belittling Steve's attempt; just trying to understand what the attempt is as the OYTT website doesn't specify other than to beat the HAMR
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 03 August, 2017, 12:15:18 am
It's what Steve wants to do, and I'm with him 100% on that. Why there has to be some of justification for it is beyond me. Why do people bother to get Audax points when they have no chance of getting the yearly record? Wowbagger is right, some posts on here are hard to fathom.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 August, 2017, 06:40:36 am
It's what Steve wants to do, and I'm with him 100% on that. Why there has to be some of justification for it is beyond me. Why do people bother to get Audax points when they have no chance of getting the yearly record? Wowbagger is right, some posts on here are hard to fathom.

Points are awarded automatically, there is no effort involved other than riding an event, which I assume people do to enjoy themselves... I don't think many actively seek them. Some do and there are awards for that: RRTY, Randonneur 5000 and Randonneur 10000 are directly based on points... and of course all other awards are directly or indirectly based on points.
Ultimately you need the right combination of points to get an SR which is a requirement to qualify for PBP... all sorts of reasons to look after your points
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 03 August, 2017, 07:49:36 am
I think you may have misunderstood me. There has been questioning of what purpose there is in Steve is riding all year round when he cannot beat Amanda. That clearly is not his purpose.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 August, 2017, 08:08:38 am
That clearly is not his purpose.

It's probably clear to you, but not to me or others, hence the comments. His website still claims that he has set off in pursue of the record, which as I understand, belongs to Amanda.
However, thanks to all the contributions, I am also beginning to understand that every completed attempt is a new record in some way.

Basically, I think the all story is not clear to someone like me who thinks the 100 mt record belongs to Usain Bolt... of course there are records in at least a dozen categories of disability, there are youth records, national records, continental records, master and senior records and whatnot and maybe my view is a bit simplistic... in fact I could go out on the track now and set my own 100 mt record  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 03 August, 2017, 08:35:08 am
Women's and men's records too.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 August, 2017, 09:52:31 am
As I understand it, Steve has set out to ride as far as he can in a year.  Seems fairly clear.


Not so clear... from his site I quote

"He is now beginning another attempt on the year record.  This is currently held by Kurt Searvogel, though Amanda Coker looks to be on course to break his record."

To me this reads as he did set out to beat the record  ???
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 August, 2017, 12:29:41 pm
You're making a very simple concept - riding as far as possible in a year - over complicated.

Don't think so.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 03 August, 2017, 11:58:18 pm
I'm still going for Amanda's record, though it does look unlikely that I'll succeed.
I need to get faster to succeed. I tried trying to get faster while riding around 14 hours a day (not including stops) and that didn't really work. So now I'm trying to ride fewer hours and have more recovery while just doing enough to stay ahead of Kurt.
Too early to see if it's working yet. I rode easy for 2 weeks before the Mersey 24 and seem to have gained a little bit of speed, but not much.
I seem to have a reasonable day or two before my speed drops again. That makes sense because I'd expect to have to ride a bit faster than normal then recover, which means slowing down.
I tend to look at a week at a time rather than days. Last week on Strava was a good sign that my speed is increasing. I was generally riding around 95 hours a week earlier in the year and doing over 1500 miles. Last week I rode 1500 miles in under 90hrs riding time. Even then, looking at a week at a time isn't entirely accurate because of weather.
Whether I can beat Amanda's record depends on whether I can get my speed up early enough, then start doing the longer hours again. That'll mean riding longer and faster in the winter. That doesn't seem impossible but I can see that it would seem unlikely.
I still have the men's record to go for. But if all else fails, I don't see the point in stopping. I may not get the record, but that doesn't mean I HAVE to stop. After all, I'd only find some other ride to do, so I might as well keep going just to finish the story.
Still 7 months to go  :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 04 August, 2017, 12:03:09 am
Thanks Steve.
Best wishes.   Good luck
And keep on keeping on.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 04 August, 2017, 12:10:13 am
What Basil said.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 04 August, 2017, 12:24:26 am
But if all else fails, I don't see the point in stopping. I may not get the record, but that doesn't mean I HAVE to stop. After all, I'd only find some other ride to do, so I might as well keep going just to finish the story.
Still 7 months to go  :)

Chapeau!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 04 August, 2017, 06:49:42 am
Awesome Steve, thanks!

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 04 August, 2017, 07:09:05 am
Yes!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 August, 2017, 08:41:15 am
Really good to hear from you, Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: JamesBradbury on 04 August, 2017, 02:37:07 pm
What a great attitude!! You can tell Steve's had some experience of this long distance riding game!

Good luck!

Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 20 August, 2017, 11:34:51 am
370.8 km yesterday.

His HR only went over 100 bpm on a few occasions during all of that.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LEE on 22 August, 2017, 03:37:12 pm
370.8 km yesterday.

His HR only went over 100 bpm on a few occasions during all of that.

He spends most of the day cycling with the same heart rate of many people sat watching TV
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 23 August, 2017, 08:21:09 am
I may be wrong, but I think this is the first visit to Wales during this entire project.  Croeso Steve.  Prob lwc.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 23 August, 2017, 08:45:20 am
Currentlu having breakfast inthe West End Cafe, Llandovery.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 31 August, 2017, 08:28:51 pm


1270.2 ahead of the Godwin line.
1056.9 ahead of the Searvogel line.
1157.5 behind the Coker line.



SoreTween  you are the master at providing mileages covered
Steve continuesto bash out the mileages to beat the Godwin record.
The 4th September is not far off and 6 months covered. Please advise what distance then he has covered. Then we shall have an idea of his expected total.  Obviously he'll do less with winter on its way!
Keep going Steve and good to chat with you recently

[/quote]
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 31 August, 2017, 09:03:36 pm
I don't think anyone on here is belittling Steve's attempt; just trying to understand what the attempt is as the OYTT website doesn't specify other than to beat the HAMR


Pretty sure I've read more than once the Godwin mileage is the one he plans to beat.  But keep looking as twill zoom be 6 months covered so we'll ave an idea of years likely mileage   you did sterling work on LEL assisting.



Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Chris S on 31 August, 2017, 09:27:40 pm
Well - there's a plan then.

Stay within 1000 miles of the Coker line, if at all possible. This will be hard - winter is coming, and that was a BIG advantage to Amanda - there's no winter in Florida (to speak of).

Then - assuming still 1000 miles outside the Coker line, bury yourself to get Coker+50 for each of the last 20 days. Record won.  :thumbsup:

(To my mind - Coker is unbeatable until some metronomic robot beats her in a velodrome, or someone just about beats her in similar conditions).

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Oaky on 01 September, 2017, 12:05:22 am
Pretty sure I've read more than once the Godwin mileage is the one he plans to beat.

He's aiming for Amanda's record - his own post on this is one page upthread:-

I'm still going for Amanda's record, though it does look unlikely that I'll succeed.
I need to get faster to succeed. I tried trying to get faster while riding around 14 hours a day (not including stops) and that didn't really work. So now I'm trying to ride fewer hours and have more recovery while just doing enough to stay ahead of Kurt.
Too early to see if it's working yet. I rode easy for 2 weeks before the Mersey 24 and seem to have gained a little bit of speed, but not much.
I seem to have a reasonable day or two before my speed drops again. That makes sense because I'd expect to have to ride a bit faster than normal then recover, which means slowing down.
I tend to look at a week at a time rather than days. Last week on Strava was a good sign that my speed is increasing. I was generally riding around 95 hours a week earlier in the year and doing over 1500 miles. Last week I rode 1500 miles in under 90hrs riding time. Even then, looking at a week at a time isn't entirely accurate because of weather.
Whether I can beat Amanda's record depends on whether I can get my speed up early enough, then start doing the longer hours again. That'll mean riding longer and faster in the winter. That doesn't seem impossible but I can see that it would seem unlikely.
I still have the men's record to go for. But if all else fails, I don't see the point in stopping. I may not get the record, but that doesn't mean I HAVE to stop. After all, I'd only find some other ride to do, so I might as well keep going just to finish the story.
Still 7 months to go  :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 01 September, 2017, 03:16:47 pm
Seems to be going well at the moment... 90 hours or less a week to do around 1500 miles... still losing on Coker, but consolidating the advantage on KS
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 04 September, 2017, 01:04:10 pm
Just passed half way.  (Actually a couple of days over half way)


What mileage has Steve done in the half year  ??
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 04 September, 2017, 01:53:34 pm
What mileage has Steve done in the half year  ??

I make it 39,545.3 miles up until the end of the last ride posted on Strava yesterday morning, which is 183 and a bit days, or 216 miles per day.

Reaching Amanda's number would require 259 miles/day from now on. Beating Tommy/Kurt requires only about 200 miles/day.

Beating Steven's existing record only requires 132 miles/day. If he continues at his current rate he should be there sometime around Christmas.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 04 September, 2017, 05:56:00 pm
What mileage has Steve done in the half year  ??

I make it 39,545.3 miles up until the end of the last ride posted on Strava yesterday morning, which is 183 and a bit days, or 216 miles per day.

Reaching Amanda's number would require 259 miles/day from now on. Beating Tommy/Kurt requires only about 200 miles/day.

Beating Steven's existing record only requires 132 miles/day. If he continues at his current rate he should be there sometime around Christmas.



Many thanks Graham
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 05 September, 2017, 05:25:42 pm
Video from Kajsa showing Steve in action:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfCFrXy6UdI
https://youtu.be/UfCFrXy6UdI
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hulver on 05 September, 2017, 05:27:00 pm
He's looking really good in that video. Flying along.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 05 September, 2017, 09:21:13 pm


I make it 39,545.3 miles up until the end of the last ride posted on Strava yesterday morning, which is 183 and a bit days, or 216 miles per day.

Reaching Amanda's number would require 259 miles/day from now on. Beating Tommy/Kurt requires only about 200 miles/day.

Beating Steven's existing record only requires 132 miles/day. If he continues at his current rate he should be there sometime around Christmas.




Oaky.  Many thanks.  39545 for half year = 79090 approx for year. He's never going to do 259 per day if in the best of weather he's averaged 216.  Well done Steve as you'll beat your own record plus Godwins.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 12 September, 2017, 12:05:18 pm
"Going to try a circuit of about 10 miles today A505 Leighton Buzzard to the A5 Dunstable and back."

https://twitter.com/steve_abraham74/status/907529179926855680
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 12 September, 2017, 03:32:33 pm
Looking really strong (and fast!) in that video... love the slow cadence... in the face to the 90 RPM brigade  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 17 September, 2017, 10:24:05 am
No updates on Strava since thursday... Garmin issues or something happened?

EDIT: just read the tweet, stomach problems... guess two days off make a big dent in his lead over KS and probably means goodbye to any chance to catch AC.

Keep it going! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 22 September, 2017, 08:00:50 pm
No updates on Strava since thursday... Garmin issues or something happened?

EDIT: just read the tweet, stomach problems... guess two days off make a big dent in his lead over KS and probably means goodbye to any chance to catch AC.

Keep it going! :thumbsup:


Even without the 2 days off he's not going to average 259 mls a day
We would all wish he could but it's a NO NO sadly
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 25 September, 2017, 10:37:21 am
I note from Strava he's doing laps of a TT circuit near Leighton Buzzard now, and his mileage is slightly up on previous weeks.

On the other hand, he seems to be on the road for 24+ hours at a time with sporadic long (snooze?) stops in McDonalds and various hedgerows. This seems... unsustainable?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 25 September, 2017, 03:26:30 pm
I note from Strava he's doing laps of a TT circuit near Leighton Buzzard now, and his mileage is slightly up on previous weeks.

On the other hand, he seems to be on the road for 24+ hours at a time with sporadic long (snooze?) stops in McDonalds and various hedgerows. This seems... unsustainable?

McDonalds and stomach problems... why do I see a connection?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 26 September, 2017, 10:43:45 am


McDonalds and stomach problems... why do I see a connection?
[/quote]

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 26 September, 2017, 10:07:39 pm


McDonalds and stomach problems... why do I see a connection?

 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
[/quote]The big M and Domino's are just about the only foods that have given me stomach ache and I have eaten fish and chips in the middle of many audax rides. I avoid lamb and raw onions on rides, as well as McDonald's.

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 26 September, 2017, 10:15:33 pm
The advantage of The Scottish Restaurant, such as it is, is consistency.  Both in terms of the food, and the standard of hygiene.

It wouldn't be my first choice on a long ride either, but it's available everywhere, at weird hours and probably won't actually kill you.  Weirdly, while I don't generally react well to large quantities of chips, I've never had that problem with McDonald's.

Also: Proper loos with hand driers.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 September, 2017, 02:32:51 pm
and probably won't actually kill you.

... mmmhh, that's not what the documentary "Supersize me" claimed... although the guy didn't cycle 200 miles a day.

I wonder if it's possible to be super fit, lean and mean and at the same time have a raging LDL cholesterol and a liver in pieces...  ::-)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Chris S on 27 September, 2017, 02:47:49 pm
I wonder if it's possible to be super fit, lean and mean and at the same time have a raging LDL cholesterol and a liver in pieces...  ::-)

Er, well. Impressive, laudable and amazing as TG's (and others) exploits are - it's not at all certain those exploits will have long term positive effects on their health. Actually, rather the opposite, if you look at the state of some older triathletes and elite athletes.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Veloman on 27 September, 2017, 04:18:12 pm
I wonder if it's possible to be super fit, lean and mean and at the same time have a raging LDL cholesterol and a liver in pieces...  ::-)

Er, well. Impressive, laudable and amazing as TG's (and others) exploits are - it's not at all certain those exploits will have long term positive effects on their health. Actually, rather the opposite, if you look at the state of some older triathletes and elite athletes.

This is very true based on some of older (and sometimes not so old) folk I know who readily admit they trained too hard in order to stay at the top of their game both in the semi-pro cycling scene and running side of athletics. Hindsight is a perfect science!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 September, 2017, 05:27:43 pm
I was thinking more in terms of whether high level of activity helps counteract a bad diet in the short term... is there such a thing as an elite athlete with high cholesterol?

long term effects of sport is another matter
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: simonp on 27 September, 2017, 05:42:08 pm
My opinion is that a lot of the issues of modern lifestyle are influenced by lack of activity as much as poor diet. Bad diet plus inactive worse than bad diet plus (sensibly) active. A poor quality diet won’t support port a high training load very well, though.

I’m in McDonald’s now. I think the quality has improved in recent years. And I always have a coffee which eliminates the empty carbs of a soft drink. I’d normally not but I missed lunch and don’t fancy rowing training on an empty stomach. It’s not going to be high effort stuff so I’m unlikely to throw up all over 2.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Veloman on 27 September, 2017, 06:30:04 pm
I was thinking more in terms of whether high level of activity helps counteract a bad diet in the short term... is there such a thing as an elite athlete with high cholesterol?

long term effects of sport is another matter

Yes. I knew one (went to Olympics to represent GB) and sadly he is no longer with us. Died of heart related events.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 28 September, 2017, 07:34:24 pm
The advantage of The Scottish Restaurant, such as it is, is consistency.  Both in terms of the food, and the standard of hygiene.

Also: Proper loos with hand driers.

With the possible exception of the one in Middlesborough I visited early one morning (albeit 10 years ago). Smell of rancid oil, greasy handprints on all the table dividers, and loos the site installation guys thought were rough!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 01 October, 2017, 05:17:16 pm
and loos the site installation guys thought were rough!!

Trainspotting kind of rough?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 02 October, 2017, 03:03:36 pm
and loos the site installation guys thought were rough!!

Trainspotting kind of rough?

I got that impression, I wasn't brave enough to check them out!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 11 October, 2017, 07:58:40 am
Steve did enough laps of  a section of road between Leighton Buzzard and Houghton Regis yesterday to wear out the tarmac.
A change of tactics? Or just dictated by the conditions of the day?
https://www.strava.com/activities/1224593516
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 11 October, 2017, 10:09:44 am
Steve did enough laps of  a section of road between Leighton Buzzard and Houghton Regis yesterday to wear out the tarmac.
A change of tactics? Or just dictated by the conditions of the day?
https://www.strava.com/activities/1224593516

It was the discovery by a member of the team of that as a suitable circuit, with nearby food and reasonable traffic most of the time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 11 October, 2017, 10:35:08 am
The altitude shows that the track rose up each time he did it :D

I though maybe he was trying out a new piece of kit and wanted to be sure of it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 12 October, 2017, 11:09:45 am
He's been doing that for the last month or so.

Oddly his mileage seems to have gone down if anything. He seems to have settled into a routine of leaving late morning and bashing out exactly 200 miles, which is the bare minimum to equal Tommy/Kurt. It could be very close if he doesn't ramp the mileage up a bit.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 18 October, 2017, 06:08:32 am


Quote from: grahamparks link=topic=97746.msg2216948#msg2216948 date=1507802985 It could be very close if he doesn't ramp the mileage up a bit.
[/quote

When the winter arrives the milage will go down, not up. It will add some drama
.

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 18 October, 2017, 09:56:30 am
I've been conflating the Kurt and Tommy records as similar targets, but Steve needs something like 199 miles/day for Tommy's and 206 miles/day for Kurt's. Unless we see an uptick in miles from his now very consistent 200/day it looks like he's only aiming for Tommy's.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: swampthing on 18 October, 2017, 10:28:22 am
Some remarks about UMCA:

A few days ago the UMCA altered their "official results" spreadsheet. There was not much change, some entries were obviously corrections of typing errors (e.g. the mileage on March 14th was 231.7 and is 237.1 now). Overall mileage went down by around 70 miles.

This is good on one hand, as the UMCA-results are very transparent now, they almost exactly equal Steve's Strava-entries. My inofficial Strava-based spreadsheet and UMCA's official results are only 2 miles apart now (which might be caused by my Kilometer-miles-conversion)

But this is bad on the other hand:
I always expected UMCA to have access to more detailed (tracker-)data, so that their official results should be derived by deeper examination (I expected this to be the reason for the sometimes huge delays of their official results).
Steve's Strava-uploads contain some obvious errors due to bad gps-signals when his bike was not moving during long rests, but gps falsely detected movement (see picture below from his ride on October 12th). I do not think that Steve's miles are substantially overestimated (I guess the overall error is hardly triple-digit), but I am disappointed that UMCA does not check the data more thoroughly. The official results are unfortunately less reliable than I thought. I do not need an official sanctioning body for adding up Strava-entries, I can do that myself (and I am confident that I make less (typing-)mistakes).

(http://up.picr.de/30678341ii.jpg)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 18 October, 2017, 12:33:31 pm
As to whether dither when stationary makes any significant difference - I don't know the absolute size of these dithers.  The tracker data if anything is less detailed, so I think we just have to live with the limitations of the technology.  Unless you want to volunteer to write a stationary-dither-cleaning routine for GPX files.

Looking at that specific GPS wandering (looks like the bike was brought inside as the temp goes up from 12 to 23 deg C): https://www.strava.com/activities/1227517158/analysis/19780/20762

5:36:12 was at distance 170.2km
7:00:14 was at distance 173.5km

So that particular stop added 2 miles.

But this seems to be the exception, looking at other stops (where the bike remains outside) the wandering is only a couple of hundred meters.

I too am surprised that UMCA just take the data as is without performing any other validation/cleaning on it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: swampthing on 18 October, 2017, 02:12:25 pm
There were three errors:  Typos on Mar 14 (231.7 for 237.1) and Sept 20 (245.2 for 242.5).  In addition they had a spurious 80.5 miles on 7 Jul.  They've corrected these, but in so doing have also replaced the formerly correct value of 164.9 on Sep 14 with an erroneous 172.5.  Why ... I don't know.

Thank you for your clarification! Sep 14 was the day when Steve commented on Strava:
„To add insult to injury, both of my GPSs stuffed up which is why this track has a straight line. It's robbed me of about 52 miles.“

164.9 miles ist the Strava-ride which contains about 13 irregular miles (the „straight line“). I do not know what data UMCA used but it is not implausible that this particular day was corrected.

As to whether dither when stationary makes any significant difference - I don't know the absolute size of these dithers.  The tracker data if anything is less detailed, so I think we just have to live with the limitations of the technology.  Unless you want to volunteer to write a stationary-dither-cleaning routine for GPX files. 

Normally the wandering is only a couple of hundred meters, as Greenbank says. Slightly bigger errors occured mainly, when Steve recorded 24 hours nonstop and had a long intermediate break. A quick check let me find examples of GPS-errors on Sep 9 (2.5 miles), Sep 18 (1 mile), Oct 8 (2.5 miles) and Oct 12 (see above). No big issue, but there was definitely need for data validation in Kurt’s and Steve’s attempts 2015 (not to mention Bruce Berkeley and Miles Smith) and I am unhappy when I lose confidence in UMCA’s reliability. I can srutinise but I would prefer not to feel the need to do it.

A „stationary-dither-cleaning routine for GPX files“ is not hard to obtain if you have the underlying datapoints. You can also reduce the problem when you set a minimum speed on your device below which no movement is recorded (which is possible an a Garmin Edge as used by Steve).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 20 October, 2017, 01:26:02 pm
So now it's all mini-loops? I was looking forward to seeing where he'd been while having my morning coffee, but now it's pointless...  ::-)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: michaelo on 27 October, 2017, 03:05:52 pm
If you're searching for sources of error, it's also worth noting that Strava rounds down to the nearest one decimal place.  That means that there's are loads of .0x miles that get trimmed off.  But they don't get trimmed off Strava's aggregated totals.
That is only a display feature.  It holds the exact mileage and uses that to calculate weekly/monthly/challenge totals.  You can see the data to 2dp through Veloviewer.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 30 October, 2017, 08:33:52 am
I don't trust the mileages on Strava.

On sun I ran a route, same route I ran previous sun, apart from a very small dog leg omitted where I took a wrong turn across York racecourse. Strava recorded the two runs as being 200m different in length - I reckon their couldn't have been more than 100m in it at most. I reckon there is a lot of rounding going on, and when you are in areas with high trees and buildings maybe some jitter. Some of my speeds seemed a bit unrealistic, too.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 30 October, 2017, 09:00:28 am
A slightly better week just completed (206 miles/day), but balanced by a below average week just before (194 miles/day).

He's now on 50,132 miles with 125 days to go. He needs 207.6 miles/day to beat Kurt, 199.5 miles/day to beat Tommy, and 107 miles/day to beat his 2015 record - at current progress he'll reach this a few days into the new year.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 31 October, 2017, 03:35:52 pm
Please do not take this the wrong way - and I am indeed impressed by any cyclist who goes out for a record particularly of of this magnitude - but is it possible that those who are posting on this thread about one man's cycling endeavour - and the exhaustingly minute details they provide of his mileages - need to get a life?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 31 October, 2017, 03:55:01 pm
Swampthing said: "I always expected UMCA to have access to more detailed (tracker-)data, so that their official results should be derived by deeper examination (I expected this to be the reason for the sometimes huge delays of their official results)."

To be fair, UMCA - or the new name it operates under - is suffering from a diminishing number of volunteers and the one person who was handling the web site - Shu - is quitting, so you should not expect to see 'detailed tracker data' unless you want to volunteer to do it. Chris Hopkinson is the new president and I am sure he will welcome your stepping up to the job of web guru.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 November, 2017, 01:26:05 pm
Please do not take this the wrong way - and I am indeed impressed by any cyclist who goes out for a record particularly of of this magnitude - but is it possible that those who are posting on this thread about one man's cycling endeavour - and the exhaustingly minute details they provide of his mileages - need to get a life?

I think the all AUK debate about Accumulated Altitude Awards (AAA to you and me) has gone a bit flat, so there is plenty of room at the bottom for a touch of "tetrapiloctomy" in a different context
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 02 November, 2017, 03:04:12 pm
"..tetrapiloctomy.."  ???

I had to look that up in the OED, couldn't find it though. Can you give me a hint?   ::-)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 02 November, 2017, 03:07:05 pm
"..tetrapiloctomy.."  ???

I had to look that up in the OED, couldn't find it though. Can you give me a hint?   ::-)

Been there, done that:
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=tetrapiloctomy
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 02 November, 2017, 03:08:04 pm
Or an alternative spelling

http://www.worldwidewords.org/weirdwords/ww-tet1.htm
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 02 November, 2017, 04:31:29 pm
"As the component parts come respectively from Greek, Latin and Greek it’s a miscegenated linguistic sandwich that no self-respecting scholar would invent, which is no doubt why Umberto Eco found it to be appropriate."

That's me then.  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 November, 2017, 04:53:33 pm
It's a good word... I've got more  8)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 02 November, 2017, 07:19:25 pm
Your one sentence using that ridiculous word has led me to massively  upgrade my probability of ever reading an Umberto Eco book  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 November, 2017, 08:29:44 pm
Your one sentence using that ridiculous word has lead me to massively  upgrade my chances of ever reading an Umberto Eco book  ;D

... as well as "Luther Blissett  Q"

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_(novel)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 03 November, 2017, 08:19:03 am
I think your URL lost a bracket:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_(novel) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_(novel))
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 03 November, 2017, 11:37:05 am
Your one sentence using that ridiculous word has led me to massively  upgrade my probability of ever reading an Umberto Eco book  ;D

I'm still reading one of his (Foucault's Pendulum). I think I started it back in 2001.

Dense is an understatement. I'd consider burning it but I'm worried that it would continue to heat my house not just through the entire winter but for many summers and winters to come.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 03 November, 2017, 02:16:02 pm
There was a sex scene in one of his books I rather liked, forget which, but I could look it up if there is an interest.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 03 November, 2017, 05:29:48 pm
Meanwhile, how's Teethgrinder doing?  Last thing I heard he was suffering lurgy...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: woollypigs on 03 November, 2017, 09:06:57 pm
Meanwhile, how's Teethgrinder doing?  Last thing I heard he was suffering lurgy...
erm don't you mean that lurgy is suffering a bout of Teethgrinder ?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 04 November, 2017, 06:39:23 am
Your one sentence using that ridiculous word has led me to massively  upgrade my probability of ever reading an Umberto Eco book  ;D

I'm still reading one of his (Foucault's Pendulum). I think I started it back in 2001.

Dense is an understatement. I'd consider burning it but I'm worried that it would continue to heat my house not just through the entire winter but for many summers and winters to come.

I never found translations particularly appealing. I was lucky enough to read Eco in Italian and in the "correct" cultural context. I have the same problem with English literature... when I read Dickens back in the days I thought he was mighty boring... translations are flat, plus the context of the dark and filthy Victorian cities was not something that meant anything to me, whilst surrounded by sun drenched vine growing hills
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jethro on 04 November, 2017, 01:01:43 pm
Just looked at Strava and it appears that Steve has now done 54180 miles which I assume is from the date he re-started his record bid on 4th March.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 November, 2017, 11:42:12 pm
Meanwhile, how's Teethgrinder doing?  Last thing I heard he was suffering lurgy...
He posted on strava that the lurgy is getting worse.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: T42 on 09 November, 2017, 03:04:59 pm
"..tetrapiloctomy.."  ???

I had to look that up in the OED, couldn't find it though. Can you give me a hint?   ::-)

Been there, done that:
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=tetrapiloctomy

Google's "Images" result (https://www.google.fr/search?dcr=0&biw=1680&bih=927&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=-m0EWvrWCJLGsAfo27bYBQ&q=tetrapyloctomy&oq=tetrapilo&gs_l=psy-ab.3.0.0i10i24k1j0i24k1j0i10i24k1.8866.14845.0.20506.9.9.0.0.0.0.145.970.3j6.9.0....0...1.1.64.psy-ab..0.9.968...0j0i67k1j0i30k1j0i5i30k1j0i13k1j0i13i30k1.0.135uht7HJfE) for that is rather splendid.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 24 November, 2017, 10:29:59 am
100 days to go... 55,200 miles done*, meaning 20,876 miles to equal Searvogel and 19,865 miles to equal Godwin.

Steven's pace for the year so far is 208.3 miles/day. His pace for November so far is 203.1 miles/day, but 13 of the 23 days have been above the Searvogel pace.

(* includes mileage after midnight this morning)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: woollypigs on 24 November, 2017, 10:36:07 am
Looking good :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 04 December, 2017, 09:55:13 am
https://www.strava.com/athletes/3268578/posts/840075
https://youtu.be/hhwt-OlyFYo 

A quick video update from Idai. Steve has had a hard few weeks. As ever Idai has given his some good advice
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 04 December, 2017, 08:27:04 pm
Note from Steve's Facebook page. Seems he's been having health issues and will let us know more.

Steve Abraham
12 hrs ·
For anyone who saw the video from Sunday (and anyone else really), here is pretty much what I was saying.
Sorry for no video updates since July. I have tried a few times and they haven't worked out. I don't have time to edit, so I have to get straight through without too many mistakes or forgetting important stuff.
I've had a very hard few months and have discovered that I most likely have a condition that is restricting what I can do, which is partly why there haven't been any updates for a long time. That and traffic noise, opportunities to film etc. I won't go into my condition yet. That assumes that I do have it. However, what I am doing to solve my condition seems to be working very well. I have pretty much been setting myself further back every day since I set off in March, so have a lot of damage to undo. What I am doing seems to be working very well and I reckon I am about as bad now as I was in August. I made my discovery about a month ago and have been surprised at how much better I am feeling and how quickly I am improving, but I also realise how bad I got.
So, once I get myself in a better condition; the end of this week would be the earliest at a guess; I will take an "easy" week and catch up on my video updates since the Mersey Roads 24hr in July using my netbook at home (so no traffic noise and you get to see my ugly mug. Maybe put it under the Christmas tree to stop the kids opening the presents early :-)). There will be several updates for all the stuff I have gone through since my last update, some of which might have been very serious. I have probably been close to having to stop the attempt a few times. Once I have caught up with the story from July to the discovery of my condition I will do another update where I reveal all about my condition and try to explain how debilitating it is. It should also explain why I have been having such a hard time, especially in the last few months.
But for now, I am definitely feeling a lot better (even though I don't feel especially "good") and improving every day.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 05 December, 2017, 02:42:29 pm
Note from Steve's Facebook page. Seems he's been having health issues and will let us know more.

Steve Abraham
12 hrs ·
For anyone who saw the video from Sunday (and anyone else really), here is pretty much what I was saying.
Sorry for no video updates since July. I have tried a few times and they haven't worked out. I don't have time to edit, so I have to get straight through without too many mistakes or forgetting important stuff.
I've had a very hard few months and have discovered that I most likely have a condition that is restricting what I can do, which is partly why there haven't been any updates for a long time. That and traffic noise, opportunities to film etc. I won't go into my condition yet. That assumes that I do have it. However, what I am doing to solve my condition seems to be working very well. I have pretty much been setting myself further back every day since I set off in March, so have a lot of damage to undo. What I am doing seems to be working very well and I reckon I am about as bad now as I was in August. I made my discovery about a month ago and have been surprised at how much better I am feeling and how quickly I am improving, but I also realise how bad I got.
So, once I get myself in a better condition; the end of this week would be the earliest at a guess; I will take an "easy" week and catch up on my video updates since the Mersey Roads 24hr in July using my netbook at home (so no traffic noise and you get to see my ugly mug. Maybe put it under the Christmas tree to stop the kids opening the presents early :-)). There will be several updates for all the stuff I have gone through since my last update, some of which might have been very serious. I have probably been close to having to stop the attempt a few times. Once I have caught up with the story from July to the discovery of my condition I will do another update where I reveal all about my condition and try to explain how debilitating it is. It should also explain why I have been having such a hard time, especially in the last few months.
But for now, I am definitely feeling a lot better (even though I don't feel especially "good") and improving every day.

One would be tempted to think bradycardia, by looking at his Strava files
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 14 December, 2017, 09:04:30 pm
Fuck.

"I was hit from behind by a car. Just a glancing blow, rather than a direct hit. Took the wing mirror clean off.
Worst of my injuries are in the photos taken about 20 hours later. Right hand side of my drop handlebars is now more like an extra tri-bar. Probably lucky I was on the tri-bars at the time. Not much more than superficial wounds really. Walking is uncomfortable, not in any pain if I am resting and I should be OK in 72 hours, according to the doctor. Been checked out and X-rayed and nothing broken.

So, I was hit and found myself lying at the roadside with my right leg tangled in bent up handlebars and in shock. I untangled myself and a passer by stopped and phoned the police. The person who hit me did stop.

Ended up waiting at the roadside for about an hour in freezing temperatures, covered in blankets and going into hypothermia. It got tough when my temperature went down to 34 degrees and it went as low as 33.

As I've had people here on Strava ask what my resting pulse is, it went down to 37bpm when I was in hospital and warmed up again. It gave the medic a fright until I told him I cycle about 200 miles a day. I even got a free sandwich :-)"
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ruthie on 14 December, 2017, 09:16:58 pm
Oh, arse.  This is not good.  Poor Steve  :(
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 14 December, 2017, 09:26:21 pm
look after yourself Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Canardly on 14 December, 2017, 09:40:40 pm
Bugger. He is ok that is the main thing.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 14 December, 2017, 09:56:39 pm
Really bad luck. Time for another change of tactics? A few months in the sunshine State, miles on a circuit like Hillingdon, Stratford or even Hog Hill? Get well soon Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 14 December, 2017, 09:57:30 pm
The good news is that his injuries barely qualify for the gore thread:

https://twitter.com/steve_abraham74/status/941421378078740486/photo/1


It does go to show that anything that leaves you sitting around at the roadside at this time of year is bad news, though.  Hopefully he'll be back on the bike and churning out the miles soon enough.  Looks like it's going to warm up a bit over the weekend too.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 15 December, 2017, 12:01:45 am
Shit!  Fuck! 
Best wishes Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Polar Bear on 15 December, 2017, 06:09:14 am
Steve's a tough and resilient bugger which is just as well really.

Hope that you are up and about soon Steve and feeling none the worse for your latest 'adventure'.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: JamesBradbury on 15 December, 2017, 07:17:57 am
Gah what crappy luck!

Look after yourself Steve.

Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Si S on 15 December, 2017, 08:29:35 am
Bugger!

Heal quick Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 15 December, 2017, 09:13:32 am
He's posted on Twitter that he's going to try heading out today. Nowt on the tracker yet though.

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 15 December, 2017, 12:20:28 pm
He's posted on Twitter that he's going to try heading out today. Nowt on the tracker yet though.

Go Steve!

not a good day... it's black ice galore.

It is very unfortunate, but sadly to be expected... poor weather leads to cycling being restricted to busy roads... combine that with monster daily mileage and accidents become very likely
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: simonp on 15 December, 2017, 01:21:59 pm
Add to that generally low driving standards. GWS Steve.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 23 December, 2017, 07:31:57 pm
Has anyone done a recent schedule analysis? If I try to do it in detail I'm bound to make some schoolboy error, so I'm scared ...

BUT I think from Graham's post a few weeks back (Nov 9th?) Steve needed 203 miles-per-day = 327km-ish. Looking at https://frrt.org/tg/riders?offset=50&limit=50 I'm seeing only a couple of days over that figure, and most under 300km [and of course one day spent mucking about in ambulances etc].

So it feels like it's slippnig away :( Or are the frrt figures way below his "official" numbers?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 23 December, 2017, 08:23:19 pm
As of yesterday (or rather, early this morning), Steve has ridden 60,600.8 miles and has 71 days to go.

He now needs 203.7 miles/day to beat Tommy and 218 miles/day to beat Kurt. The last six days he's done 199.6 miles/day and been fairly consistent day-to-day.

Steve's pace for the *first* 71 days of this attempt was 221.9 miles/day. So the Kurt record isn't *quite* out of reach but an increasingly large surge in daily mileage is required to reach it.

I'm using the UMCA spreadsheet numbers (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15LBYel9v14aCJ9kMrxFtIrE0aRVfNGaPJApZrpJacbw/edit#gid=1473182902) (updated Dec 12) then the distances from Strava for recent rides.

(Anyway, Merry Xmas Steve. I hope you're proud of this attempt however it works out)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Pale Rider on 25 December, 2017, 04:11:59 am
Has anyone done a recent schedule analysis? If I try to do it in detail I'm bound to make some schoolboy error, so I'm scared ...

BUT I think from Graham's post a few weeks back (Nov 9th?) Steve needed 203 miles-per-day = 327km-ish. Looking at https://frrt.org/tg/riders?offset=50&limit=50 I'm seeing only a couple of days over that figure, and most under 300km [and of course one day spent mucking about in ambulances etc].

So it feels like it's slippnig away :( Or are the frrt figures way below his "official" numbers?

I thought that, looking at the Ivanoscope.

It quotes track and route distance, I don't know the difference but taking the higher route distance it looks like Steve is averaging about 275km/170miles a day for the last couple of months.

If so, he will fall short of Tommy by a couple of thousand miles.

However, Graham's post above this one looks better informed, and it gives Steve 200 miles a day.

Easy for me to say, but it seems an odd tactic to fall short of Tommy by about four miles a day, each day.

On t'other hand, that deficit - under 300 miles - could be made up by Steve in the last few days if he does a spurt of mega miles which we know he's capable of.

It does look to me as if beating Tommy is now the only realistic target.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ruthie on 25 December, 2017, 10:01:28 am
Steve’s beaten Kurt already by a huge distance, simply by not being a total knob.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: T42 on 25 December, 2017, 10:18:48 am
I have no data on Kurt's knobbidity, but for sheer guts Steve's got all his modern rivals beaten four ways from, well, Christmas.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ruthie on 25 December, 2017, 10:59:37 am
Yep. Steve - you the man.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: bobb on 25 December, 2017, 10:16:22 pm
What has Kurt done to be a knob? As far as I can tell, he just rode his bike a lot. And very well. And a very long way. Please enlighten me....
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 25 December, 2017, 10:35:38 pm
Steve’s beaten Kurt already by a huge distance, simply by not being a total knob.

Errr, WTF??
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 25 December, 2017, 11:37:30 pm
Kurt and Alicia visit this site from time to time so I'd like them to know that the vast majority of posters have nothing but admiration for both their efforts.  I'm sure Steve would agree,
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Basil on 26 December, 2017, 12:05:28 am
Kurt and Alicia visit this site from time to time so I'd like them to know that the vast majority of posters have nothing but admiration for both their efforts.  I'm sure Steve would agree,

Yes Indeed.  Support for all nutters heros from here.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 26 December, 2017, 07:12:45 am
Kurt and Alicia visit this site from time to time so I'd like them to know that the vast majority of posters have nothing but admiration for both their efforts.  I'm sure Steve would agree,
Yup. But also:

... for sheer guts Steve's got all his modern rivals beaten four ways from, well, Christmas.
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 26 December, 2017, 08:19:58 am
369 ivan-kms yesterday [25th]. Merry Chrismas Steve  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ruthie on 26 December, 2017, 09:57:51 am
Kurt and Alicia visit this site from time to time so I'd like them to know that the vast majority of posters have nothing but admiration for both their efforts.  I'm sure Steve would agree,
Yup. But also:

... for sheer guts Steve's got all his modern rivals beaten four ways from, well, Christmas.
:thumbsup:

Ask Kurt about British Muslims. Go on. I dare you.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: alfapete on 26 December, 2017, 10:45:31 am
Wow! 370km on Christmas day. Amazing!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 26 December, 2017, 10:47:01 am
Kurt and Alicia visit this site from time to time so I'd like them to know that the vast majority of posters have nothing but admiration for both their efforts.  I'm sure Steve would agree,
Yup. But also:

... for sheer guts Steve's got all his modern rivals beaten four ways from, well, Christmas.
:thumbsup:

Ask Kurt about British Muslims. Go on. I dare you.

are you for real? I thought this was about cycling
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: matthew on 26 December, 2017, 11:12:13 am
Wow! 370km on Christmas day. Amazing!

Think of another day in the year with such little traffic on the road. Go Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ruthie on 26 December, 2017, 11:23:22 am
Wow! 370km on Christmas day. Amazing!

Think of another day in the year with such little traffic on the road. Go Steve

Fantastic  :D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 26 December, 2017, 02:11:44 pm
Exceptional mileage... unfortunately cold and ice are on the way again...  >:(
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 26 December, 2017, 07:03:37 pm
Kurt and Alicia visit this site from time to time so I'd like them to know that the vast majority of posters have nothing but admiration for both their efforts.  I'm sure Steve would agree,
Yup. But also:

... for sheer guts Steve's got all his modern rivals beaten four ways from, well, Christmas.
:thumbsup:

Ask Kurt about British Muslims. Go on. I dare you.

are you for real? I thought this was about cycling
What’s your view on British Muslims then?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 26 December, 2017, 08:07:24 pm
As I've never discussed it with them, Martin Kurt and Ruthie may all have completely insane views on that matter.

But even if Kurt spends his free evenings pulling kittens' toenails, I would rather that were discussed in a different arena. If Donald Trump attempts the HAMR, I think we should at least TRY to respect his actual cycling - unless he orders the FBI to sabotage other HAMR riders. (was that a thought experiment too far? Hmm, maybe ... )

Merry Chrimble and happy cycling everyone.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ruthie on 26 December, 2017, 09:00:08 pm
Yes, you're right.  That was completely inappropriate.  I apologise for saying it.  If I hadn't been quoted, I'd delete the posts. 

Sorry.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 27 December, 2017, 10:33:36 am
369 ivan-kms yesterday [25th]. Merry Chrismas Steve  :thumbsup:
Only 320 on the following day, but at a decent moving speed. Looking at the weather this morning I thought he was in for a tough few days, but actually it looks like he's played a blinder with the wind, holing up in the Far North last night:

He's sat out the early snow/sleet, and now has a day of Northerlies to blow him back to MK.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 28 December, 2017, 10:29:16 pm
Another short day after a fall on the ice Steve really needs to take stock as the miles per day required have risen over 220. Time to look for climates warmer and gradients flatter?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: swampthing on 28 December, 2017, 11:16:24 pm
Another short day after a fall on the ice Steve really needs to take stock as the miles per day required have risen over 220. Time to look for climates warmer and gradients flatter?

According to Strava (which is very close to official UMCA-data) Steve needs an average of 221.9 miles/ day in the remaining 65 days to beat Kurt Searvogel. I am afraid that this is too much under the circumstances given.

Surpassing Tommy Godwin's mileage requires 206.5 miles/ day, which is a tough task but might still be in reach. 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 29 December, 2017, 08:03:23 am
It's slipping away.

Average speed yesterday was a mere 21 km/h... compare that with the 30+ they did in Florida and it is slipping away...

I hope in the future he focusses on shorter attempts in the good season, although in fairness there isn't much to go for that doesn't require a big budget (Beaumont stuff for instance)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 29 December, 2017, 08:59:42 am
Another short day after a fall on the ice Steve really needs to take stock as the miles per day required have risen over 220. Time to look for climates warmer and gradients flatter?

According to Strava (which is very close to official UMCA-data) Steve needs an average of 221.9 miles/ day in the remaining 65 days to beat Kurt Searvogel. I am afraid that this is too much under the circumstances given.

Surpassing Tommy Godwin's mileage requires 206.5 miles/ day, which is a tough task but might still be in reach.
Yes of course its in reach - after all, he averaged 206 for over 9 months. It would be insane to stop with barely 2 months left and his original target still in reach.


As for heading for Florida ... well I won't bet my house against that, after 10months of his preferred approach ... but I might bet my bikes!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 29 December, 2017, 09:21:02 am
Looking at totals, Steve is at an interesting point right now:
Some stats ...

Steve's stats as at 24 Dec 17                                    
Days: 296, 81.1% of year, 69 days remaining                                    
Dist: 98,108 km / 60,961 mi                                    
Avg daily dist: 331.4 km / 206.0 mi (Last 7 days: 311.7 km / 193.7 mi per day)                                    
                                    
Required rates for various records                                    
8.7 miles/day required for René Menzies (1937) 61,561 miles                                    
24.6 miles/day required for Ossie Nicholson (1937) 62,657 miles                                    
38.4 miles/day required for Steve Abraham (2015) 63,609 miles                                    
60.4 miles/day required for Bernard Bennett (1939) 65,127 miles                                    
204.4 miles/day required for Tommy Godwin (1939) 75,065 miles                                    
219.0 miles/day required for Kurt Searvogel (2015) 76,076 miles                                    
371.2 miles/day required for Amanda Coker (2016) 86,573 miles
He's done about 1200km since that post, so total around
99,300km 61,700miles.

So he has several totals in sight to keep motivated over New Year.

He has his own PB to shoot for just 2,000miles away - after that, no matter how badly he is going, he'll have the satisfaction of adding miles to that PB.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 29 December, 2017, 10:10:19 am
after that, no matter how badly he is going, he'll have the satisfaction of adding miles to that PB.

I would like to hope this is his last and final shot at this silly record, hence he needs to beat Godwin at the very least, for it to be a successful year on the bike. It's already the third best outcome and probably the bare minimum he set out to achieve back in March... anything less would probably spark yet another attempt...  :o
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 29 December, 2017, 11:12:30 am
How many miles has Steve ridden since the start of his first attempt? That was at the start of 2015, so he's been at this for three years now. That's the length of a university course, it would be nice to acknowledge that with some sort of award.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 29 December, 2017, 11:17:41 am
How many miles has Steve ridden since the start of his first attempt? That was at the start of 2015, so he's been at this for three years now. That's the length of a university course, it would be nice to acknowledge that with some sort of award.

When I worked at Brunel Uni we gave an Honour Degree to Jeremy Clarkson, so anything is possible.

On the subject, it would have been clever of TG to team up with some academic involved in sport or sport medicine... there might have been funding available too... he even lives in reasonable proximity to Loughborough, which is probably the epicentre of all things sport at Uni level. Missed opportunity there, me thinks
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: trumpet on 29 December, 2017, 03:20:35 pm
How many miles has Steve ridden since the start of his first attempt? That was at the start of 2015, so he's been at this for three years now. That's the length of a university course, it would be nice to acknowledge that with some sort of award.

Maybe we could all bombard the BBC for some kind of award / recognition at the Sports Personality of the year?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 29 December, 2017, 04:05:05 pm
How many miles has Steve ridden since the start of his first attempt? That was at the start of 2015, so he's been at this for three years now. That's the length of a university course, it would be nice to acknowledge that with some sort of award.

Maybe we could all bombard the BBC for some kind of award / recognition at the Sports Personality of the year?

I don't think people would understand this type of record (or attempts to a record)... I have to admit half of the time I do struggle to understand the point myself.

I am baffled that arguably "less pointless" and probably more achievable records seem to have zero uptake... aside from Guy Martin's half hearted attempt, anyone had a go at the "Around the coast of Great Britain" record?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 29 December, 2017, 06:28:30 pm
Quote
Anyway, Merry Xmas Steve. I hope you're proud of this attempt however it works out

Indeed! I just read of an attempt by an adventurer to cross the Antarctic and had to give up, but he tried, which is the greatest accomplishment.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 29 December, 2017, 06:29:52 pm
Steve’s beaten Kurt already by a huge distance, simply by not being a total knob.

 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 29 December, 2017, 06:32:26 pm
Quote
Kurt and Alicia visit this site from time to time so I'd like them to know that the vast majority of posters have nothing but admiration for both their efforts.

Were you hoping for a Christmas card?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 29 December, 2017, 10:23:21 pm
Steve’s beaten Kurt already by a huge distance, simply by not being a total knob.

 :thumbsup:

no not :thumbsup:

the person who posted this has apologised; go and find another thread to troll please
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: C-3PO on 29 December, 2017, 10:34:15 pm
Calling anyone 'a knob' is non-excellent.

Condoning this, too, is non-excellent.

Please respect the forum ethos of excellence to all.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: T42 on 30 December, 2017, 08:44:03 am
How many miles has Steve ridden since the start of his first attempt? That was at the start of 2015, so he's been at this for three years now. That's the length of a university course, it would be nice to acknowledge that with some sort of award.

Maybe we could all bombard the BBC for some kind of award / recognition at the Sports Personality of the year?

Aye, but what they want is the sporting media POTY. How many times has Steve been favoured with a spot on national TV?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 30 December, 2017, 11:16:44 am


Aye, but what they want is the sporting media POTY. How many times has Steve been favoured with a spot on national TV?

There is the "unsung hero" award, but typically goes to folks who do something meaningful for their local community... I can't see this attempt falling into that description by any stretch of imagination
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 30 December, 2017, 05:38:42 pm
Steve is down on his miles and the hardest six weeks are ahead of him. It does not look good.

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 30 December, 2017, 06:40:54 pm
Steve is down on his miles and the hardest six weeks are ahead of him. It does not look good.

BB
Bad enough that you think he should stop?


He's recovering from 2 recent injuries, and lost mileage dealing with those, and with technical glitches. I agree he's up against it, but if those injuries are mending (who can know from here??), and he avoids more incidents, his mileage can go up.

By how much, christ knows!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 30 December, 2017, 08:57:12 pm
I don't think anyone's asking him to stop yet. I think it'd be foolish at this point to do so unless the injuries are worse than we know, or he suffers another big setback.

It is possible the weather will improve a lot in January and February. It's far warmer today than even a couple of days ago, although the price seems to be strong winds, which kill progress as much as last week's ice.

Anyway, fingers crossed he has better luck. He has the big morale boost of reaching his previous record coming up in a week or so.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 31 December, 2017, 02:44:01 pm
Steve is down on his miles and the hardest six weeks are ahead of him. It does not look good.

BB
Bad enough that you think he should stop?


He's recovering from 2 recent injuries, and lost mileage dealing with those, and with technical glitches. I agree he's up against it, but if those injuries are mending (who can know from here??), and he avoids more incidents, his mileage can go up.

By how much, christ knows!

When you point out a simple fact you get attacked as been negative. Anyone who cycles in the UK knows that Christmas to the middle of February is pot luck for road cycling. Expecting to average 200 miles a day is possible but unlikely to happen.

Has logic left the room?

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 31 December, 2017, 06:51:03 pm
How many miles has Steve ridden since the start of his first attempt? That was at the start of 2015, so he's been at this for three years now. That's the length of a university course, it would be nice to acknowledge that with some sort of award.
Steve is a little behind reading your questions, but tweeted the answer(s) this morning:


@steve_abraham74
 9h9 hours ago

Over 65,000 miles this year. More than my first #HAMR attempt in spite of starting 2 months later.
Not getting a broken ankle seems to help.

 
@steve_abraham74
 9h9 hours ago

According to @Strava I have ridden 156,415 miles since I began #HAMR on 1st Jan 2015 with 1st (2) attempt(s) training and my 2017/18 attempt.
An average of 52,138 a year, not including today's ride.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 01 January, 2018, 02:01:45 pm
That's a fairly tidy 1,000 miles a week, and a bit. An amazing achievement over three years. I doubt that will ever be repeated.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 01 January, 2018, 04:01:32 pm
Is it just me thinking that with a bit more budget, he could get himself a recumbent tricycle and that would be great for both icy and windy days?
Obviously a Velomobiel Quest would be my choice... like this one spotted at last year National 400 

(https://i0.wp.com/whosatthewheel.files.wordpress.com/2017/07/quest.jpg)

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 01 January, 2018, 04:08:53 pm
In this year's 1200K Last Chance in Colorado, a velo finished a day and a half before any standard bike or recumbent and they routinely carry records in 24 Hour races, so, if Steve transferred to one of these - maybe someone reading this who has one could lend it to him - it would make his final task much easier and possible more comfortable. By the way, most velo's are trikes.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 01 January, 2018, 04:21:05 pm
bikes/trikes with fairings are against the rules afaik
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 01 January, 2018, 05:14:43 pm
bikes/trikes with fairings are against the rules afaik

then a trike with no fairings.. still a big advantage in ice and wind
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 01 January, 2018, 05:44:06 pm
Trikes can be an advantage, for instance in Bessies Creek 24 Hour race last year a 70 year old man rode 327 miles, not bad for his age. Recumbents and trikes are very definitely a reasonable choice - particularly for an aging cyclist who wants to continue in the sport. 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 01 January, 2018, 09:12:22 pm
Steve used an ICE VTX while recovering from the ankle injury on his first attempt.  If he thought that such a machine was worthwhile, I'm sure he'd be using one.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 01 January, 2018, 09:25:50 pm
Trikes can be an advantage, for instance in Bessies Creek 24 Hour race last year a 70 year old man rode 327 miles, not bad for his age. Recumbents and trikes are very definitely a reasonable choice - particularly for an aging cyclist who wants to continue in the sport.

(http://tricycleassociation.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Dennis-980x640.jpg)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rob on 04 January, 2018, 08:53:59 am
Steve got a mention on Radio 2 this morning.   Think someone phoned it in.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tatanab on 04 January, 2018, 09:09:27 am
Trikes can be an advantage, for instance in Bessies Creek 24 Hour race last year a 70 year old man rode 327 miles, not bad for his age. Recumbents and trikes are very definitely a reasonable choice - particularly for an aging cyclist who wants to continue in the sport.
That being in the USA, you can bet that the trike was in fact a recumbent trike not a good old British upright which is about 10% slower than an equivalent bike due to weight and wind resistance.  Here in the UK our own riders in their 70s ride similar distances to that 327.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 04 January, 2018, 04:08:32 pm
(http://www.utahtrikes.com/uploads/utrecenttrikes/4938598_ICEVTXRacingTrike/pic1/IMG_20170509_134401.jpg)

ICE VTX: Nice vehicle.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 04 January, 2018, 04:27:34 pm
I'd prefer the upright 'proper' trike.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 04 January, 2018, 04:40:30 pm
Lots of choices with none being the right or wrong or 'proper' one.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tatanab on 04 January, 2018, 05:41:49 pm
Lots of choices with none being the right or wrong or 'proper' one.
Or comparable.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 04 January, 2018, 06:14:28 pm
This is going fairly wildly off topic. I'm interested in Steve's amazing achievements, not the relative merits of trikes (which Steve will not be using), which are probably best discussed elsewhere.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Manotea on 04 January, 2018, 06:23:33 pm
One thing is for sure, anybody riding through the weather the UK has had over the last couple of weeks is made of sterner stuff than me. Go Steve. :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 04 January, 2018, 06:36:24 pm
This is going fairly wildly off topic. I'm interested in Steve's amazing achievements, not the relative merits of trikes (which Steve will not be using), which are probably best discussed elsewhere.

Are you the moderator?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ian H on 04 January, 2018, 07:11:35 pm
Lots of choices with none being the right or wrong or 'proper' one.
Or comparable.
Of course, ICE did lend Steve one of their creations, and even adapted it to accommodate his broken ankle.  Very grateful we all were.  But it did convince Steve that it wasn't the way to go.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tatanab on 04 January, 2018, 08:15:14 pm
This is going fairly wildly off topic. I'm interested in Steve's amazing achievements, not the relative merits of trikes (which Steve will not be using), which are probably best discussed elsewhere.

Are you the moderator?
I agree with Toontra.  I was a bit bothered about responding but as a tricyclist with 50 years experience I get very very frustrated when people write as if recumbent is the default form.  Let's drop it from this thread about Steve's magnificent performances.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: C-3PO on 04 January, 2018, 11:07:27 pm
This is going fairly wildly off topic. I'm interested in Steve's amazing achievements, not the relative merits of trikes (which Steve will not be using), which are probably best discussed elsewhere.

Are you the moderator?

I am!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: C-3PO on 04 January, 2018, 11:15:13 pm
Masters:

PLEASE remain excellent to all and on topic.

The moderation team has little wish to apply steel toe-capped boots with violence.

Please do not provoke the Order of the Boot.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 05 January, 2018, 01:03:18 am
Quote
Of course, ICE did lend Steve one of their creations, and even adapted it to accommodate his broken ankle.  Very grateful we all were.  But it did convince Steve that it wasn't the way to go.

Do you know why it 'convinced' Steve the ICE was not the way to go?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 January, 2018, 06:52:44 am
It was slower than a bike (for him). He wasn't going fast enough for a possible aerodynamic improvement to overcome increased rolling resistance.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 January, 2018, 08:13:46 am
There were several recumbents produced before WW2, both French and British manufacturers. Their speed was why the UCI banned them before WW2.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 05 January, 2018, 10:33:12 am
I think I started the trike talk, as a sensible way to ride when there is a significant risk of ice. Upright or recumbent doesn't make much difference. It does, of course, when storm Eleanor hits the land.
My feeling is that a large steed of very different cycles and the ability to ride them all at the same level is essential to the success of these attempts, at least in the UK where weather patterns are very changeable from day to day and include all the variables in abundance (wind, ice, rain, rolling terrain...). AFAIK, Steve has a couple of identical Raleigh, reasonably versatile bikes, but not particularly power efficient.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 January, 2018, 11:10:36 am
Judging by his strava comments, Steve is finding it heavy going atm.

Getting hip pain and unpleasant weather. He's also had battery charging issues with several devices.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 05 January, 2018, 12:46:47 pm
I think I started the trike talk, as a sensible way to ride when there is a significant risk of ice.

Indeed.  All things being equal, the rolling resistance of a third wheel is less than the rolling resistance of studded tyres.  It's how I'd approach it.  But Steve has decided to go for the even lower rolling resistance of a late-starts-and-stick-to-main-roads approach.


Quote
Upright or recumbent doesn't make much difference.

Except that in the hands of an inexperienced rider upright trikes are hedge-seeking missiles, and recumbent trikes are go-karts that use the wrong leg muscles.  And if your strategy involves long loops to take advantage of the wind, whatever you set out on you're stuck with for the rest of the day.

Steve has a decently aero position on his Raleigh, and that's what he's trained for.  It clearly works.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hillbilly on 05 January, 2018, 12:49:30 pm
I've been following Steve's progress sporadically over the course of this attempt.  It is impressive that he is still going, despite some setbacks, and remains on track for one of the largest annual cycling distances to date despite the challenges the year has thrown up so far.  I'm hoping he ends this attempt later this year rightfully pleased with what he has achieved given the challenges of riding in the UK, rather than being thinking too long about what might have been "if only".

(PS: on various comments about trikes.  The golden rule is "Steve knows best".)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 05 January, 2018, 12:57:48 pm
It is impressive that he is still going, despite some setbacks, and remains on track for one of the largest annual cycling distances to date despite the challenges the year has thrown up so far.  I'm hoping he ends this attempt later this year rightfully pleased with what he has achieved given the challenges of riding in the UK, rather than being thinking too long about what might have been "if only".

Indeed YES!!

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 05 January, 2018, 02:07:05 pm
It was slower than a bike (for him). He wasn't going fast enough for a possible aerodynamic improvement to overcome increased rolling resistance.

I can see that. I have a new Cruzbike Vendetta that I bought so I could go faster on randonnees  - they set records in the hands of those who can master them - but I cannot get it to go much more than 12 MPH, whereas I can cruise at 17 MPH on my standard bike. I think the muscles take a lot longer to train for a new position than you would think.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 January, 2018, 06:09:09 pm
It was slower than a bike (for him). He wasn't going fast enough for a possible aerodynamic improvement to overcome increased rolling resistance.

I can see that. I have a new Cruzbike Vendetta that I bought so I could go faster on randonnees  - they set records in the hands of those who can master them - but I cannot get it to go much more than 12 MPH, whereas I can cruise at 17 MPH on my standard bike. I think the muscles take a lot longer to train for a new position than you would think.

Maybe. I rode a mate's ICE Vortex for a couple of hours in Oz and found that I cruised at about my normal pace on flat ground but lost speed quickly when the road went uphill. That was with no adaption to a new position at all.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: RichForrest on 05 January, 2018, 08:22:47 pm
Steve got a mention on Radio 2 this morning.   Think someone phoned it in.
I heard that too, it was local Ironman Mark Kleanthous

https://twitter.com/ironmatemark?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 06 January, 2018, 09:52:29 pm
I hope that Steve can put the last few weeks behind him and muster an epic final push to the line! I know he wants to!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 07 January, 2018, 09:25:46 am
A 234 mile day yesterday - hopefully he's getting back on form since someone drove into him. The number needed to equal Tommy is now 209.8 miles/day and Kurt 227.9 miles/day. 56 days to go.

In other good news he's now just 295 miles from beating his 2015 record, so he should reach it some time tomorrow.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: ElyDave on 07 January, 2018, 04:00:47 pm
It was slower than a bike (for him). He wasn't going fast enough for a possible aerodynamic improvement to overcome increased rolling resistance.

I can see that. I have a new Cruzbike Vendetta that I bought so I could go faster on randonnees  - they set records in the hands of those who can master them - but I cannot get it to go much more than 12 MPH, whereas I can cruise at 17 MPH on my standard bike. I think the muscles take a lot longer to train for a new position than you would think.

Maybe. I rode a mate's ICE Vortex for a couple of hours in Oz and found that I cruised at about my normal pace on flat ground but lost speed quickly when the road went uphill. That was with no adaption to a new position at all.

The Cruzbike is a moving bottom bracket, front wheel drive and steer, so a bit different from another recumbent, even if two wheeler.  It didn't take me long at all to match average audax speed on my two wheeler recumbent, being fully confident with it in crosswinds came traffic took longer, and it still don't ride it in icy conditions.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 08 January, 2018, 10:04:37 am
In other good news he's now just 295 miles from beating his 2015 record, so he should reach it some time tomorrow.

His 2015 record will be surpassed 111 miles into today's ride.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 08 January, 2018, 02:36:44 pm
Chapeau, Steve!  What a great achievement! :)

Now on to the final furlong (or so) ;)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 08 January, 2018, 04:45:58 pm
Quote
and it still don't ride it in icy conditions.

Me neither, nor any bike in icy conditions. Fortunately, icy conditions around here are rare enough it is not a problem.

I did ride a friends Carbonbent and like you, found no problem in getting up to speed. If I had to go the buying a recumbent route again, I would not have bothered with the Cruzbike with its exceptionally long learning curve. Even so, after riding my first 200K perm yesterday on my standard bike, I realised that riding a recumbent on Texas roads is not something I would want to do. It's okay on bike trail, but not among traffic.

Glad to hear that Steve is getting close to his goal, I imagine he will be thankful not having to face another day on the bike when he is done with this one. But, we all need a challenge, so no doubt he will be looking for another.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 08 January, 2018, 04:52:34 pm
Even so, after riding my first 200K perm yesterday on my standard bike, I realised that riding a recumbent on Texas roads is not something I would want to do. It's okay on bike trail, but not among traffic.

Going off-topic here, but can I ask why?  In the UK I generally find a recumbent is less scary in traffic than a DF because its unusualness makes drivers pay more attention (though start-stop conditions can be harder work).  Do things work differently in Texas?


Quote
Glad to hear that Steve is getting close to his goal, I imagine he will be thankful not having to face another day on the bike when he is done with this one.

Knowing Steve, he'll go for some sort of bike ride to celebrate...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 08 January, 2018, 05:19:44 pm
Quote
Going off-topic here, but can I ask why?

You know what is said about finding a fork in the road? If you come across one, take it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LMT on 08 January, 2018, 07:23:19 pm
Quote
and it still don't ride it in icy conditions.

Me neither, nor any bike in icy conditions. Fortunately, icy conditions around here are rare enough it is not a problem.

I did ride a friends Carbonbent and like you, found no problem in getting up to speed. If I had to go the buying a recumbent route again, I would not have bothered with the Cruzbike with its exceptionally long learning curve. Even so, after riding my first 200K perm yesterday on my standard bike, I realised that riding a recumbent on Texas roads is not something I would want to do. It's okay on bike trail, but not among traffic.

Glad to hear that Steve is getting close to his goal, I imagine he will be thankful not having to face another day on the bike when he is done with this one. But, we all need a challenge, so no doubt he will be looking for another.

Like learning anything new, if you learn it the hard way it will appear harder...

Well done Steve on breaking his 2015 record.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 08 January, 2018, 07:25:55 pm
Quote from: Kim
Going off-topic here, but can I ask why?

You know what is said about finding a fork in the road? If you come across one, take it.

Kim, have you not learned yet??
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 January, 2018, 07:43:19 pm
Congrats Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 08 January, 2018, 07:47:33 pm
In other good news he's now just 295 miles from beating his 2015 record, so he should reach it some time tomorrow.

His 2015 record will be surpassed 111 miles into today's ride.
Woohoo! (and thanks Statto Graham  :thumbsup: )

I have no intention of making predictions about future mileage, but I *am* sure that this will give Steve a lift after a run of bad luck :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 08 January, 2018, 10:50:24 pm
This may be old news but Guinness confirmed to UMCA last week that Steve holds the month record for men and will be getting certificates soon

 http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/508458-greatest-distance-cycled-in-a-month-male-umca
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 09 January, 2018, 08:01:57 am
This may be old news but Guinness confirmed to UMCA last week that Steve holds the month record for men and will be getting certificates soon

 http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/508458-greatest-distance-cycled-in-a-month-male-umca

So, if I understand correctly, the month is different to the year in that it only allows open roads with traffic, junctions and whatnot? And therefore AC cannot hold the month record too, which she probably would otherwise?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hillbilly on 09 January, 2018, 09:34:49 am
I think the main disqualification against Amanda taking Steve's male record was the use of different equipment.

http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/508450-greatest-distance-cycled-in-a-month-umca

(Steve held the overall monthly from October 2016 to April 2017, at which point Amanda surpassed him. Steve is now the male record holder.)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 09 January, 2018, 10:03:50 am
It must be tough for Steve out there.  Really hope he can get the Tommy Godwin distance by the end.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 09 January, 2018, 10:04:21 am
Read my post again .. Steve has the MALE month. Amanda has overall

http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/508450-greatest-distance-cycled-in-a-month-umca
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 09 January, 2018, 03:13:53 pm
Think he might have another crack at the overall record?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hillbilly on 09 January, 2018, 04:00:04 pm
I wonder if he'll ever look at a bike again?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 09 January, 2018, 06:34:17 pm
He should have a go at Nick Sanders 22 days record... it did work as a springboard for him... I have the book and the images of crowds waiting for him at Blackpool are a far cry from the reality of Steve.

He could beat the 22 days record and become very popular... these "aimless" records do not go anywhere in terms of money or fame
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 09 January, 2018, 11:30:46 pm
Think he might have another crack at the overall record?

yes I think he will if enough people support him financially, but he's now spent an (unprecedented) 3 years in pursuit of it unlike any of the other record holders....
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 10 January, 2018, 09:40:14 am
While all sorts of records could be attempted I seem to recall that Steve has had Tommy's record in his mind since he was a teenager. That has to be some serious motivation that he has worked towards this for many years. I don't recall money or fame being specific targets for Steve.

I appreciate that... but I also think it would be easier to achieve that on the back of some "more popular" record... it's not fame for the sake of it... it comes with sponsorship and all sorts of deals which might help his other attempts finacially.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 10 January, 2018, 09:59:09 am
Think he might have another crack at the overall record?

yes I think he will if enough people support him financially, but he's now spent an (unprecedented) 3 years in pursuit of it unlike any of the other record holders....
I mean the Month.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 10 January, 2018, 09:26:11 pm
Quote
yes I think he will if enough people support him financially, but he's now spent an (unprecedented) 3 years in pursuit of it unlike any of the other record holders..

Searvogel is a wealthy computer systems owner who had the financial resources to mount his attempt, as does his second wife (first wife was Trish, lovely person but Tarzan apparently needed a new Jane...). Don't know about Amanda.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 11 January, 2018, 12:01:16 am
Think he might have another crack at the overall record?

yes I think he will if enough people support him financially, but he's now spent an (unprecedented) 3 years in pursuit of it unlike any of the other record holders....

Steve runs a campaign that doesn't need a lot of money.

There are loads of posters just on this forum that spaff money up against the wall that Steve would dream of.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 11 January, 2018, 03:26:53 pm
Quote
There are loads of posters just on this forum that spaff money up against the wall that Steve would dream of.

Um, I have absolutely no idea what that means. Can you explain in ordinary English please?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 11 January, 2018, 03:33:04 pm
Urban Dictionary (https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Spaff) is your friend.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrinklyLion on 11 January, 2018, 04:13:58 pm
Some fast bugger scalped me on the commute today, just round the corner from Clarion and Butterfly's local.  Had I known in advance I'd have gone to work 5 minutes early and got them to send the kids out in the playground to cheer :D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 11 January, 2018, 05:08:22 pm

Steve runs a campaign that doesn't need a lot of money.


But isn't that the key? He's up against "opponents" who have a superior organisation, quite possibly due to a bigger budget.
What he is doing is truly remarkable, but you can see that he struggles with things he could "buy himself out of"
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 11 January, 2018, 10:24:49 pm

Steve runs a campaign that doesn't need a lot of money.

When looking after the very generous support from all those who knew TG when he set off on his first attempt .. it was very surprising how much cash is needed for those things that have nothing to do with the attempt, such as  rent rates electricity etc they come to quite a tidy sum ..and as far as I know TG  has not had a paying job quite some time now.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 11 January, 2018, 10:32:04 pm
Quote
off on his first attempt .. it was very surprising how much cash is needed for those things that have nothing to do with the attempt, such as  rent rates electricity etc they come to quite a tidy sum

I don't see why it is at all surprising, what would be surprising is that anyone would be surprised. Do you think Steve was surprised? Unless he had a Tardis (if the Beeb has finished with it) and could be dropped down on the edge of a road to start cycling and then be warfed (don't bother to look in the dictionary for that word, I just made it up) back up into it at the end of the day, he was bound to have expenses and quite steep ones.

It would be a shame if all this ended up with him being deep in debt, but it was his choice to undertake it and, as much as I admire him for the effort, he must have known what he was letting himself in for, not only the need for a cast iron bum but also the considerable financial outlay.

Searvogel left the running of his business to his wife (the first) whilst he did his ride so the money continued to flow, but it seems from what you say that Steve has no such cushion.

I am afraid he may be in for an extreme emotional letting down at the end of all this and will need a good supply of good friends around him for support.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 11 January, 2018, 11:08:14 pm
Think he might have another crack at the overall record?

yes I think he will if enough people support him financially, but he's now spent an (unprecedented) 3 years in pursuit of it unlike any of the other record holders....

Steve runs a campaign that doesn't need a lot of money.

There are loads of posters just on this forum that spaff money up against the wall that Steve would dream of.

apart from being irrelevant to my post and also marginally non excellent, what difference exactly would more money have made to where Steve is now?

FWIW I don't believe either Kurt or Amanda could have managed 3 possibly 4 years from a financial POV
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 11 January, 2018, 11:19:15 pm
Quote
FWIW I don't believe either Kurt or Amanda could have managed 3 possibly 4 years from a financial POV

Kurt certainly could, but he is an astute businessman and no doubt would have thought the idea of going for three or four years in a row for the record to be absurd.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 11 January, 2018, 11:30:35 pm
Think he might have another crack at the overall record?

yes I think he will if enough people support him financially, but he's now spent an (unprecedented) 3 years in pursuit of it unlike any of the other record holders....

Steve runs a campaign that doesn't need a lot of money.

There are loads of posters just on this forum that spaff money up against the wall that Steve would dream of.

apart from being irrelevant to my post and also marginally non excellent, what difference exactly would more money have made to where Steve is now?

FWIW I don't believe either Kurt or Amanda could have managed 3 possibly 4 years from a financial POV

The question wasn't about where he is now, but about him being supported financially if he had another crack at the record.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 11 January, 2018, 11:50:21 pm
Think he might have another crack at the overall record?

yes I think he will if enough people support him financially, but he's now spent an (unprecedented) 3 years in pursuit of it unlike any of the other record holders....

Steve runs a campaign that doesn't need a lot of money.

There are loads of posters just on this forum that spaff money up against the wall that Steve would dream of.

apart from being irrelevant to my post and also marginally non excellent, what difference exactly would more money have made to where Steve is now?

FWIW I don't believe either Kurt or Amanda could have managed 3 possibly 4 years from a financial POV

The question wasn't about where he is now, but about him being supported financially if he had another crack at the record.

and I'm sure he would be if he did
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Neil C on 12 January, 2018, 02:37:41 pm
Steve posted this on Facebook about half an hour ago.

"Just sent my entry in for another attempt at the month record. You get 3 free attempts at the UMCA month (30 day) record during a HAMR attempt. I was hoping to run 3 concurrent Month Record attempts to finish on my last day of HAMR, but with being hit by a car, coming off on ice, being sleepy from my injuries and having to sort out endless technical problems, getting an entry in on time was forgotten about or put off until I had time. I had to make time today as I must give at least 21 days notice for a UMCA record attempt and today (12th Jan) is my last chance to get an entry in at all. So a morning and some afternoon lost to sorting stuff out and getting organised.
But my injuries are getting better and I'm feeling stronger. I'm still slowed down by my injuries. Still get tired from them and sometimes have to stop and sleep. This is setting me further behind.
I don't know if I can do what I originally set out to do in 2015. It depends on how soon I recover from my injuries and how much better I can go now that I am treating my condition. I need over 230 miles a day now. With a late start today, I will be lucky to get over 150. I don't expect to do much better tomorrow, so will get even further behind. But I do know that as part of my training, I averaged 236mpd for 30 days before I knew that I had a condition that was holding me back."
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 12 January, 2018, 03:01:03 pm
Interesting... that sounds like the target is (or at least was) the Kurt record (currently requiring 232 miles/day).

If he can equal his previous month record in the final 30 days he still needs to do 224 miles/day for the next 21 days, or 176 miles/day for the Tommy record. He's been riding a fairly steady 180 miles/day (on average) since the crash.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 13 January, 2018, 10:55:57 pm
Interesting... that sounds like the target is (or at least was) the Kurt record (currently requiring 232 miles/day).

If he can equal his previous month record in the final 30 days he still needs to do 224 miles/day for the next 21 days, or 176 miles/day for the Tommy record. He's been riding a fairly steady 180 miles/day (on average) since the crash.
I think that is what you call a stretch target. If anyone can pull it out of the bag Steve can, but it is highly unlikely.

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Clare on 14 January, 2018, 07:18:58 pm
Saw Steve yesterday on the A421 near Finmere, we were on the other carriageway so we couldn't yell encouragement but he was going well.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 15 January, 2018, 09:53:48 am
ATM looks like he is losing a day per week in terms of mileage
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 16 January, 2018, 08:07:31 am
Some time lost this week was partially due to submitting a month record application. Hopefully he's steeling himself for that final push.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 17 January, 2018, 01:33:41 pm
I reckon in the last couple of hours he passed the 65,127 mile record set by Bernard Bennett in 1939, meaning Steve has moved from 5th to 4th in the all time distance record high score table. Chapeau!

Given the Kurt and Amanda records are now realistically out of reach that makes the rest of the ride Steve vs Tommy. 216 miles/day needed with 46 days to go.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 18 January, 2018, 08:20:38 am
Chapeau Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wascally Weasel on 18 January, 2018, 08:43:57 am
Good luck Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 18 January, 2018, 03:39:37 pm
So, he roughly needs 350 km a day for the next 6-7 weeks.

Very tough... has he done any extended period of time at 350 km a day before? He did 381 km a day in the month record, but that was "only" 4 weeks
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 18 January, 2018, 04:15:08 pm
Allez Steve! And well done.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ham on 18 January, 2018, 04:19:47 pm
I was thinking of Steve as I was getting blown about and hailed on in about 0.5Km.

The guy is more than astonishing, but that's not news

Go Steve, and stay safe.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 18 January, 2018, 06:16:20 pm
For the first four months his pace was a very consistent 220 miles / 355 km a day, so it’s certainly not beyond him. Of course a lot of circumstances are different now.

He needs to ride 9,802 miles in the next 45 days to reach the Tommy number. He rode 10,040 miles in the first 45 days of this attempt.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 18 January, 2018, 07:28:09 pm
Go Steve!  Hope he can go the Tommy Godwin distance.  It would be a truely staggering achievement, especially on UK roads and given the record stood for so long, despite Kurt and Amanda going further.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 18 January, 2018, 10:30:21 pm
UK roads and weather.

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 19 January, 2018, 12:55:43 am
It seems that Britain is experiencing some horrible weather now, so is it possible that Steve's effort is going to be curtailed somewhat?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 19 January, 2018, 08:42:33 am
It seems that Britain is experiencing some horrible weather now, so is it possible that Steve's effort is going to be curtailed somewhat?
Britain is a big place, in January one town can have deep snow and high winds whilst another is just chilly (with maybe some light rain, or maybe a lovely sunny day like I'm sat in now); Steve only rides in quite a small portion of it during his record attempts.

Check his Strava maps and a UK weather map for more detail.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Polar Bear on 19 January, 2018, 09:02:51 am
It seems that Britain is experiencing some horrible weather now, so is it possible that Steve's effort is going to be curtailed somewhat?

Check out the Met Office website for good local and national weather forecasting in the UK.   Steve lives near Milton Keynes so you can look at the weather in that area as a start point.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 19 January, 2018, 10:49:43 am
In the grand scheme of things, I wouldn't call it horrible weather, but certainly it is not conducing to cycling long distance.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hillbilly on 19 January, 2018, 11:45:08 am
It's winter.  It's hardly a surprise and Steve will no doubt have allowed for it in his planning last year.

The overwhelming likelihood now is that Steve is not going to match Tommy's record.  If it were later in the year, I might believe it possible but at this time of the year, the required daily average is unlikely given Steve's recovery rate from injury/setbacks and the likely prevailing conditions. 

I don't view that as a failure, as he has achieved an incredible feat whilst not being 100% for 12 months of the challenge.  Let's face it, Tommy's record was incredible in the first place in any case - there's a reason it stood for so long.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 22 January, 2018, 04:40:52 pm
Steve's sunday strava, yikes...  340km with snow, sleet, cold, 4km of the A34, and he seemed to quite enjoy it (relatively).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 January, 2018, 04:42:00 pm
Steve's sunday strava, yikes...  340km with snow, sleet, cold, 4km of the A34, and he seemed to quite enjoy it (relatively).

Astonishing, truly hard as nails.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 22 January, 2018, 07:17:50 pm
Well I can't add much to the last 3 posts!

Meanwhile, here's the scores-on-the-doors, stolen from Dogtrousers@cyclechat:

Steve's stats as at 21 Jan 18
Days: 324, 88.8% of year, 41 days remaining
Dist: 106,357 km / 66,087 mi / 2.65 times circumference of earth
Total elevation: 413,681 m / 1,357,222 ft / 46.8 Everests
Avg daily dist: 328.3 km / 204.0 mi (Last 7 days: 323.8 km / 201.2 mi per day)
Avg daily elevation (Strava): 1,277 m / 4,189 ft (Last 7 days: 1848 m / 6063 ft per day)
Moving speed (Strava): 25.4 km/h / 15.8 mi/h (Last 7 days: 22.5 km/h / 14.0 mi/h)
Hours per day riding (Strava): 15.2 (Last 7 days: 16.1)
Projected total at overall daily rate: 119,816 km / 74,450 mi (328.3 km / 204.0 miles per day)
Projected total at 7 day rate : 119,631 km / 74,335 mi (327.8 km / 203.7 miles per day)

Required rates for various records
René Menzies (1937) 61,561 miles. Completed Dec 26.
Ossie Nicholson (1937) 62,657 miles. Completed Jan 02.
Steve Abraham (2015) 63,609 miles. Completed Jan 07.
Bernard Bennett (1939) 65,127 miles. Completed Jan 16.
219.0 miles/day required for Tommy Godwin (1939) 75,065 miles.
243.6 miles/day required for Kurt Searvogel (2015) 76,076 miles.

499.7 miles/day required for Amanda Coker (2016) 86,573 miles.


As billy says, Steve knew about the weather in Jan/Feb when he started this ... but it's still going to hinder him, and he would rather have a 10mpd buffer now than being 10mpd down on schedule [made-up figures to illustrate the general picture!]

The Tommy & Kurt figures are both very difficult now, but not impossible. The one thing we can't estimate easily is how far he can go in the last week-or-so. The unique thing about the year record is sleep; a rider can't improve their moving speed much late in the ride, but they _can_ borrow a lot of sleep from the bank for a short period. So if he's healthy, with his randoneuring experience that could give him a sprint finish. I don't think any other rider has tested that "tactic" yet.

Or of course he could just be far too knackered for any such shenanigans!

Forza Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 22 January, 2018, 08:07:55 pm
Thanks Matt.

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 22 January, 2018, 08:11:41 pm
steve abraham
‏So this is the condition Steve has hinted at.

https://twitter.com/steve_abraham74?t=1&cn=ZmxleGlibGVfcmVjc18y&refsrc=email&iid=53ba66c7b3984fa68d249ccb7ab34e7c&fl=4&uid=455172463&nid=244+281673753
 
@steve_abraham74
 11h11 hours ago
More
steve abraham Retweeted Jeremy Vine
I hope to listen with intent to @theJeremyVine talking about my condition #apnoea that almost certainly hampered my @GWR and @The_UMCA Monthly Mileage Record and my current Annual Mileage World Record attempt. Having success with a tongue stabilizer.

Steve tweeted^ That he has sleep apnea. He's using a tongue stabiliser.
Hold the front page, "cyclist uses stabilisers"......

Wishing him well. It was great to read his Strava comments today, stating that he really enjoyed and felt revitalised by the challenging conditions on the roads
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 22 January, 2018, 10:59:50 pm
just looking at Tommy's June 1939 distances

19th 258 miles
20th 295 miles
21st 361 miles (that's almost 600k, in a day!)
22nd 289 miles

www.tommygodwin.com/1939-stats/june/#

sorry but is this even a real record? just sayin....
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 23 January, 2018, 09:54:12 am
Some days Tommy spent chunks of the day sat in the middle of a fast peloton
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 23 January, 2018, 10:13:27 am
Some days Tommy spent chunks of the day sat in the middle of a fast peloton

I know but those last 3 days look pretty hard to believe; was the fast peleton riding all day with him?

We know the distance is possible as Amanda and Kurt have done it (and Steve is coming very close) but by a different means, bashing out a roughly equal distance throughout the year
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bus Shelter Bertie on 23 January, 2018, 10:37:31 am
Some days Tommy spent chunks of the day sat in the middle of a fast peloton

I know but those last 3 days look pretty hard to believe; was the fast peleton riding all day with him?

We know the distance is possible as Amanda and Kurt have done it (and Steve is coming very close) but by a different means, bashing out a roughly equal distance throughout the year

I'm with you Martin, I'm glad that the record has been broken as we've been given something that is very much easier to believe, and the more attempts that are made at it seem to suggest that steady daily mileage is the best way.

I don't believe that pacing alone is enough to account for the spell of vastly increased mileage in the middle of the year, and who is this peleton that can afford to give so much time of themselves?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hillbilly on 23 January, 2018, 10:50:55 am
(http://i2.wp.com/www.retrovisionmedia.com/issuesunderfire/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/public_opinion2.jpg?fit=640%2C480)

(I thought Tommy's record was validated using a mechanical mileometer on his bike that had to be submitted every day?  At this time separation, we can only accept that it was the official record and more likely than not to be legit, even if some of the daily totals are extraordindary.  But then that was the whole point of his record attempt.  In any case, in the unlikely event it wasn't legit, it gave the world - and Steve in particular - inspiration and something to aim for.)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 23 January, 2018, 10:59:45 am
steve abraham
‏So this is the condition Steve has hinted at.

https://twitter.com/steve_abraham74?t=1&cn=ZmxleGlibGVfcmVjc18y&refsrc=email&iid=53ba66c7b3984fa68d249ccb7ab34e7c&fl=4&uid=455172463&nid=244+281673753
 
@steve_abraham74
 11h11 hours ago
More
steve abraham Retweeted Jeremy Vine
I hope to listen with intent to @theJeremyVine talking about my condition #apnoea that almost certainly hampered my @GWR and @The_UMCA Monthly Mileage Record and my current Annual Mileage World Record attempt. Having success with a tongue stabilizer.

Steve tweeted^ That he has sleep apnea. He's using a tongue stabiliser.
Hold the front page, "cyclist uses stabilisers"......

Wishing him well. It was great to read his Strava comments today, stating that he really enjoyed and felt revitalised by the challenging conditions on the roads


I work for ResMed - pretty much the market leader in treating sleep appnea.   It makes perfect sense to me that any form of appnea would be having a massive influence on the attempt.

Steve - feel free to message me if you want some further help with this.   Pretty sure I can get you sorted out with a free private sleep assessment here.   We are near Didcot so not far from you.  If anyone could pass that message on it would be great.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 23 January, 2018, 04:19:44 pm
^ I am sure that any assistance will be gratefully received. The tracker seems to be quiet today and there was no ride uploaded from yesterday. I hope Steve is OK.
Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 23 January, 2018, 06:59:51 pm
Whichever way you look at it and no matter whether you think these kind of record breaking attempts make any kind of sense, there is absolutely no doubt that Steve is simply amazing.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 23 January, 2018, 07:07:44 pm
A big post from Steve on Facebook:

Thanks dog  :thumbsup:


I presume that Trek are not servicing Trek bikes for Steve?? What species is the one in the pic they posted:

https://www.cyclechat.net/attachments/26814517_1652042674834694_2640199603256537219_n-png.392799/


[Can't find an answer on Steve's website since March ... ]
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 23 January, 2018, 07:13:23 pm
Some days Tommy spent chunks of the day sat in the middle of a fast peloton

I know but those last 3 days look pretty hard to believe; was the fast peleton riding all day with him?

We know the distance is possible as Amanda and Kurt have done it (and Steve is coming very close) but by a different means, bashing out a roughly equal distance throughout the year

I'm with you Martin, I'm glad that the record has been broken as we've been given something that is very much easier to believe, and the more attempts that are made at it seem to suggest that steady daily mileage is the best way.

I don't believe that pacing alone is enough to account for the spell of vastly increased mileage in the middle of the year, and who is this peleton that can afford to give so much time of themselves?

There are better students here of the Year Record, but I'll try: Tommy was a pro and had support from his team. They supplied elite riders to pace him during part of his attempt (I think when the race with a rival was getting tight?). This is a resource not available to any of the 21st Century aspirants!

Look at the pace ridden in the very long Tour de France stages backintheday to see what the pros could sustain all day in a pack. The increase still looks huge, I admit - but it's not inconceivable IMO.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rob on 23 January, 2018, 08:12:50 pm
A big post from Steve on Facebook:

Thanks dog  :thumbsup:


I presume that Trek are not servicing Trek bikes for Steve?? What species is the one in the pic they posted:

https://www.cyclechat.net/attachments/26814517_1652042674834694_2640199603256537219_n-png.392799/


[Can't find an answer on Steve's website since March ... ]

Still look the Raleighs he's been using since the start.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 23 January, 2018, 08:55:59 pm
A big post from Steve on Facebook:

Thanks dog  :thumbsup:


I presume that Trek are not servicing Trek bikes for Steve?? What species is the one in the pic they posted:

https://www.cyclechat.net/attachments/26814517_1652042674834694_2640199603256537219_n-png.392799/


[Can't find an answer on Steve's website since March ... ]

http://road.cc/content/review/59935-raleigh-sojourn  He has two Raleigh Sojourns.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 23 January, 2018, 09:48:19 pm
"There are better students here of the Year Record, but I'll try: Tommy was a pro and had support from his team. They supplied elite riders to pace him during part of his attempt (I think when the race with a rival was getting tight?). This is a resource not available to any of the 21st Century aspirants!"

Sorry you know me, I have to step in a bit here.

Tommy was not a pro in the modern day sense. He was a pro by definition of being sponsored. He only rode a maximum of 3-4 months (May to August) with support from Charlie Davey in a car. I find no record at all of any team of riders drafting him, these sorts of teams did not exist in the UK as road racing was dead. Raleigh mainly sponsored track sprinters, these guys would not and did not ride with him day in day out.  He was "paced" by Davey shouting at him from the car. Bennett had Rene Menzies shouting at him from a sidecar. It's possible the two of them drafted the occasional lorry.

Steve is bloody amazing. Tommy and Bernard were equally amazing. All three fought the British roads man-to-road.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 January, 2018, 10:42:22 pm
Lorries were limited to 20 mph, exactly what a mileater would want to travel at. It was commonplace for riders to draft lorries back then. Traffic was light enough for cyclists to use main roads instead of back lanes. There were top time trialists who turned professional for bicycle makers and bicycle parts makers to set long distance point-to-point records. They had to train for their records and were paid by Godwin's sponsors. Exit Stage Left joined the dots but Citizenfish is correct that no smoking gun has been found yet.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 23 January, 2018, 10:45:36 pm
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k3y2oXWR1Ro/WN1WM6gb4WI/AAAAAAAAF5A/x7HnPyAC0pINRqDT2DO7-fgq6OUVm8p7QCPcB/s1600/Recently%2BUpdated34.jpg)


https://on-the-drops.blogspot.co.uk/2017/03/
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 January, 2018, 11:34:25 pm
Cool website!

The Brits knew what paced riding was, of course, being TTers and all.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 24 January, 2018, 07:33:31 am
'Cycling' were the validating body, and intervened to remove what was seen as excessive outside help. The period of pacing was relatively limited, and shows in 300 mile+ days. The public's credulity about it being a 'sporting contest' must have been strained by the sudden improvement in performance.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 24 January, 2018, 09:04:12 am
So if he's healthy, with his randoneuring experience that could give him a sprint finish. I don't think any other rider has tested that "tactic" yet.

Or of course he could just be far too knackered for any such shenanigans!

Forza Steve

I just don't see it happening... at the moment on a good day he manages to hang on to the 220 miles he needs to do, but on a bad one he easily loses 60-70 miles, which at this stage is huge. Average speed is also down dramatically, about 25% lower than in was in spring.
Even with a sprint finish of say 2200 miles in the last week, I don't see it happening.

I think it's just a question of how far he will go, but Tommy's UK record is safe for another year.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 24 January, 2018, 10:30:10 am
'Cycling' were the validating body, and intervened to remove what was seen as excessive outside help. The period of pacing was relatively limited, and shows in 300 mile+ days. The public's credulity about it being a 'sporting contest' must have been strained by the sudden improvement in performance.

There are so so many more pieces of information about this not on the internet. I read every cycling magazine, book  and publication cover to cover  from 1938-1940  to piece together Godwin and Bennetts year.

I have the transcript of the day Cycling followed Godwin on a 300 mile+ day. Not one mention of a lorry or other rider. The outside help documented was Davey and Menzies. I plan to hand it all over to the Warwick archives when I can find time to index and properly scan it all.

I do find quite a lot of misinformation/misinterpretation out there down to "a quick  google". I found loads of inaccuracies in the reporting itself from the day including one completely fictitious account of Godwin riding to Lands End which I discounted by cross referencing the dates with his mileage records and other magazine reports.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 26 January, 2018, 10:57:14 pm
Cool website!

The Brits knew what paced riding was, of course, being TTers and all.

I thought this was interesting, the idea that the public weren't entirely happy about the methods being used.

Quote
But the whole contest was beginning to tip in public perception from a competition of athletic skill and human fortitude to a commercial battle, a promotional stunt on public roads. This, too, risked offending the tradition bound cycling community in Britain. As it turned out, H.H. England, editor of Cycling and one of the most prominent advocates of cycling in the nation for a generation, took the initiative to suggest if not a "truce", a return to a more individual unaided contest.

from Cycling, 2 August 1939:

Never before in the while of its history has the year's mileage record provided such a sensational story.

And never before has commercial rivalry demonstrated a truer sense of sportsmanship.

The principals in this behind-the-scenes drama we are now able to disclose are:--

The Raleigh Cycle Co., Ltd., and Sturmey-Archer Gears, Ltd., of Nottingham, backing Tommy Godwin and New Hudson, Ltd., with the Cyclo Gear Co., Ltd., both firms of Birmingham, who behind Bernard Bennett

These concerns, at the suggestion of Cycling, have got together in the best interests of the cycling movement and on their own initiative have agreed:--

1) That Bennett and Godwin shall complete the year's riding without a further pace, and (2) that all assistance to the riders by way of managers, car accompaniment and organization of any kind shall be withdrawn forthwith.

The cycling world will welcome these decisions with enthusiasm.

For some time now the question of whether Godwin and Bennett would beat Ossie Nicholson's record-- barring accidents-- has not been in doubt. Both riders have a comparatively easy task to maintain a daily riding schedule that will top Nicholson's 62,657.6 miles by December 31.

The real daily drama is the race between the two Englishmen.

Unfortunately Bennett made a bad start at the commencement of the year. By the end of January he was 2,000 miles behind Godwin. One reason for this was that Midland roads were icebound for a big period of the month, whereas Godwin had somewhat better conditions.

In February they rode nearly level, but in March, with the experienced advice of Rene Menzies (who put up the British year's record of 61,561 miles in 1937) Bennett commenced the grim task of trying to overtake his rival. The Midland boy succeeded in producing bigger totals than Godwin's figures for March, April, May and June, which gradually reduced the latter's lead, although he, in turn, increased his riding rate in response to the challenge.

A significant day was March 9, when Bennett covered 263 miles. Before that Godwin's 234 miles in one day was the best between them. On April 21 Godwin replied with a 295-mile day. Saucily, the Midlander did 296 miles on April 29!

Both riders are now topping 200 miles a day regularly. On May 31 Godwin beat the 300-mile mark by nine miles. Bennett came back with a 314-mile effort on June 14 and then 'the pot boiled over' when Godwin, reducing sleep to nearly nil for a three-day effort covered 361 miles on the middle day with 290-odd totals the day before and the day after!

Both riders had been taking pace for some time; both were faced with either fewer sleeping hours still or the establishment of systematic pacing arrangements that would bump up the miles-per-hour and do something to keep the hours awheel under 20 per day!

Recently Godwin was given the assistance of an accompanying manager, Charlie Davey.

The situation had become critical.

Quite obviously the public highway was no place for a ding-dong everything allowed race of this nature.

When the case was put to the manufacturers concerned there was not a moment's hesitation.

They at once contacted with each other by telephone and mutually agreed to bar pacing and withdraw all help from their respective riders.

This week the New Hudson and Raleigh chiefs have arranged a meeting to consider if in any other ways the best interests of the cycling game may be preserved whilst permitting their respective riders to continue piling up the miles in this most dramatic dual attack on the world's endurance record.

The latest position in this remarkable race is: --

Tommy Godwin (to July 28), 42,461 miles
Bernard Bennett (to July 28), 41,312 miles
Ossie Nicholson (to July 31, 1937), 28,500 miles
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Freya on 01 February, 2018, 08:47:27 pm
Looks like he is putting in a big day today (along with yesterday evening). Impressive stuff!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 01 February, 2018, 09:02:43 pm
Yes, he's on to his month record now. I reckon he needs 233.5 mpd* to equal Tommy? *feel free to correct if anyone's got better stats.
 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 01 February, 2018, 09:28:59 pm
I have 68,217 miles to date. That leaves 228.3 mpd to reach Tommy's record.

(Or another way to look at it, he needs to cover the same distance as his previous month record minus 256 miles)

His average for the last 7 days was 211 mpd, which would leave him about 500 miles short.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 01 February, 2018, 09:29:09 pm
his latest year attempt started 4.3.17; not sure when the latest month record attempt starts but I presumed both his year and month attempts would finish on the same day
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 01 February, 2018, 09:37:00 pm
Yep, my understanding is his month record starts at midnight tonight to cover the last 30 days of the year attempt.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Nuncio on 01 February, 2018, 09:39:36 pm
Quote
For the last month, starting on 2nd February, I will start another attempt at my current month (30 day) distance record of 7104 miles
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 02 February, 2018, 10:13:52 am
Well at least it’s looking dry, if cold, for the next couple of weeks.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 02 February, 2018, 12:28:54 pm
Steve did almost 400km yesterday starting at midnight...  https://www.strava.com/activities/1387156891  (in ~21hrs)

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 02 February, 2018, 10:17:33 pm
Steve has every chance of surpassing Tommy's record. I hope his perseverance pays off.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 02 February, 2018, 10:23:40 pm
I really hope so too.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Deano on 02 February, 2018, 10:33:51 pm
Aye, here's hoping for a couple of months of good riding conditions.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Deano on 02 February, 2018, 10:53:12 pm
I want to ride my bike too, you know.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 03 February, 2018, 07:08:07 am
Here's to Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 February, 2018, 07:30:23 am
There is a spell of very cold weather coming... it should last until thursday next week. Hopefully it will be dry-ish and roads won't be too icy.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 03 February, 2018, 04:26:21 pm
Jesus it's miserable out there today, but Steve's knocked out 200k already.  Respect.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 03 February, 2018, 07:50:29 pm
If Steve manages to beat his month record (236mpd), it looks like he'll also get the Godwin distance...  Will be tough.  https://www.strava.com/activities/1388593363

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 04 February, 2018, 09:19:57 am
I only did 223 miles yesterday, ECE-ing an Audax, and it took me 21 hours, including several stops (and three long pub ones). Thought I might have seen Steve on the A507 (I'm getting to hate that road).

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 04 February, 2018, 12:43:20 pm
The A507 is awful. I recall cycling along it on my first day of my first ever solo cycle camping trip. I camped at a small site near Baldock and felt shell-shocked when I arrived.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 04 February, 2018, 05:33:17 pm
I don't mind it when I get on it at 2 or 4am, Essexbound, as there's little traffic, and it feels more downhill. Coming back in the early to late evening, with fresh legs and more traffic, it's a pain. Not worked out an alternative though. I don't ride on the A120 around Bishops Stortford now, even though the lanes around Stansted airport are slower.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 11 February, 2018, 08:49:07 am
He crossed 70,000 miles some time in the small hours this morning. Woohoo!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 11 February, 2018, 10:08:25 am
He crossed 70,000 miles some time in the small hours this morning. Woohoo!

5,000 miles to to beat Tommy's record in 20 days? That's 250 miles a day... impossible?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 11 February, 2018, 10:35:48 am
21 days left, so 241 miles a day.  :-\
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 11 February, 2018, 11:52:36 am
21 days left, so 241 miles a day.  :-\

So in AUK currency that's 385 km a day, give or take small change... very hard!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 11 February, 2018, 12:47:17 pm
21 days left, so 241 miles a day.  :-\

So in AUK currency that's 385 km a day, give or take small change... very hard!
Just come back from a club run. That distance in that wind? Very hard. We should congratulate Steve on the ride he has done. He will not beat Tommy but it is an amazing achievement.

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Freya on 11 February, 2018, 08:14:06 pm
No tracker movement for 11 hours. Hope he is ok. :(
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 11 February, 2018, 08:34:09 pm
A horrible wind chill today!  Almost a 400km a day seems a very tough ask.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: fastpedaller on 11 February, 2018, 09:44:12 pm
No tracker movement for 11 hours. Hope he is ok. :(

From the Spot tracker it looked like he did a huge ride yesterday - maybe a 24hr effort? But I find it difficult to interpret the data sometimes. Hope he is ok - It's certainly incredible to see how much he's done/is doing. I'm not even going out - far too cold  :(
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 12 February, 2018, 08:49:21 am
No tracker movement for 11 hours. Hope he is ok. :(

From the Spot tracker it looked like he did a huge ride yesterday - maybe a 24hr effort? But I find it difficult to interpret the data sometimes. Hope he is ok - It's certainly incredible to see how much he's done/is doing. I'm not even going out - far too cold  :(

My impression is that he spent an awful lot of time on the road, but didn't go very far. It took him 9 hours to do the last 50 miles. He's getting slower and slower and by his own admission, Tommy's record is now beyond reach.
Fatigue...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 12 February, 2018, 08:56:35 am
Just posted to Twitter:
Quote
Not looking good for me getting Tommy Godwins record but I'll keep going until the end all the same.

Quote
Just woke up after about 20hrs sleep. I thought that consolidating all my sleep in a bed would be better than churches, bus shelters and Maccy Ds. Now to see if I can do a day without nodding off...

And Strava:
Quote
That's probably put an end to my getting Tommy Godwins year record. More in description....
Now that I'm sleeping better I am more awake and riding more hours a week. Trouble is that the speed isn't there. It hasn't really gone up since I was run over in December. I'm still below pace even when I have a good tailwind. I still can't get through a day without needing a sleep either. This ride is a good example. Late start because I woke up late after a longer than usual sleep. Very good tailwind, but still only averaging below 16mph where I'd expect 17-18, at least!
I don't know why. My injuries don't hurt nor do they bother me. My left leg does ache after a while, so maybe I'm not recovered from that yet? I feel better and more awake until I get sleepy in the afternoon. but feel better again after a sleep.
I started getting sleepy on this ride so headed to Mc Donalds in Ely. Somewhere warm where I won't be disturbed. They do salads as well. Also handy to have a toilet nearby after a sleep and coffee.
I put my head on the table and an hour had passed by.
My guess is that I'm not fully recovered from my injuries. I feel much less tired overall and mentally. I just get an urge to sleep in the early-late afternoon. There is a natural lull in wakefulness at that time of day. I have tried riding a bit faster but I just get sleepy and end up stopping for more sleep. I am guessing that it's more down to physical tiredness from not being recovered from my injuries rather than overall lack of sleep. But who knows...?
The bottom line is that I'm not going fast enough and can't ride any more hours than I am.

Quote
Falling asleep riding into a headwind. Couldn't stay awake for more than 5 miles, so kept stopping to sleep. Lucky to find a bank foyer that was open so I didn't have to sleep in near freezing temperatures every time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: fastpedaller on 12 February, 2018, 02:40:05 pm
Wow. Steve is astonishing in his mental and physical resilience. Maybe time for the motorist who knocked him off to fund the next attempt?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 February, 2018, 03:07:19 pm
Don't talk about a next attempt. Time for Steve to think of other things and refresh his mind and legs.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 12 February, 2018, 03:11:49 pm
Don't talk about a next attempt. Time for Steve to think of other things and refresh his mind and legs.

Very much THIS!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Freya on 12 February, 2018, 03:51:02 pm
Don't talk about a next attempt. Time for Steve to think of other things and refresh his mind and legs.

Very much THIS!
I agree: Another attempt would be a bit too close to Captain Ahab for me, but it is obviously up to him. My take on it is that he has demonstrated just how difficult trying to break Godwin's record actually is. There are not many who could show that amount of strength and fortitude. But for those who blame the car driver: Surely that sort of thing is inherent in trying to ride 12+ hours a day for every day of the year on UK roads. Didn't Godwin himself break a collar bone during his attempt? & the winter of 1939 was pretty nasty. I don't think the 'if only' attitude helps in this situation.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: fastpedaller on 12 February, 2018, 03:52:34 pm
Don't talk about a next attempt. Time for Steve to think of other things and refresh his mind and legs.

I absolutely agree - there can be a limit to how dedicated one can be. I think Steve's already excelled it! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hillbilly on 12 February, 2018, 04:39:00 pm
I hope Steve reaches the end of this attempt safely, pushing himself over the next 3 weeks or so as much as makes him happy.

He can then reflect on what an extraordinary thing he has achieved on public UK roads on an upright bike.  I don't think there is anyone else currently active in the UK who could have done so much given the constraints he placed on himself.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 12 February, 2018, 04:40:13 pm
Or imposed on him by our insane traffic conditions.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Laid Back Rich on 12 February, 2018, 04:55:06 pm
finish and register for a new record category - max mileage in 3 years - would surely be Steve's forever  :)

GO STEVE GO!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 12 February, 2018, 08:55:17 pm
Will Steve have any records at the end of this year?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: simonp on 12 February, 2018, 08:57:37 pm
As he’s beaten his own best distance he will hold the UMCA age group record.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Si S on 12 February, 2018, 09:00:49 pm
And the month record I do believe.

I do hope he has a plan, IMHO it's not going to be easy returning to reality.

What he's done over the last few years beggars belief.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 12 February, 2018, 09:18:21 pm
As he’s beaten his own best distance he will hold the UMCA age group record.

I thought that, but as Kurt is older, and went further, does it mean much for all that effort?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 12 February, 2018, 10:12:12 pm


I thought that, but as Kurt is older, and went further, does it mean much for all that effort?

It's a strange challenge and it might well be that being young doesn't help... that said AC is considerably younger than both the guys
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 12 February, 2018, 10:45:20 pm
As he’s beaten his own best distance he will hold the UMCA age group record.

I thought that, but as Kurt is older, and went further, does it mean much for all that effort?
Depends on your definition of "much"; do YOU hold any age-group records? How many people do you know that do?

And I'd say that being 2nd best Brit of all-time (for now) is a pretty fucking great achievement :)
(or 2nd best of anyone riding in the  UK, if you prefer)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 February, 2018, 10:42:22 am
What Matt said.

Steve has, I think, ridden himself into the ground. If he were in training, we'd be saying he was overtraining, suffering from exhaustion. His body can't recover.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Kim on 13 February, 2018, 02:51:29 pm
Indeed.  I think he's demonstrated what happens if you try to ride your bike more or less continuously for three years in a row.  A spectacular achievement.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 13 February, 2018, 02:54:01 pm
Can we have a three year record?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 13 February, 2018, 03:01:44 pm
I may be pissing in the wind on here but I'd like Steve to stop NOW and get well and probably never do this again.  Many cycling afficionados are aware of his tremendous achievements but virtually no-one else will ever hear about them (almost nobody will have heard of AC, or even Tommy Godwin).  I'd rather Steve was alive and well than a wreck (or worse) with a "concocted" record that is under almost all radar.  Would stopping diminish his extraordinary achievements?  Not to me.  I do wonder if all the "Go STEVE" stuff (said with the best of intentions and with genuine warmth) might actually be making it harder for him to make the decision to stop.  Of course, I'm only thinking out loud -Steve may be perfectly content doing what he is doing, which really would be remarkable.

Peter
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 13 February, 2018, 03:09:28 pm
I think Steve should continue doing what he feels is right.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 13 February, 2018, 03:11:58 pm
Yes, I don't disagree.  I just hope he doesn't feel under pressure. 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 13 February, 2018, 03:36:43 pm
Yesterday's Strava entry mentions a target of 73,000 (365 * 200 miles) and 160 miles per day.

That's still a lot of miles, but hopefully it'll allow him to back off a bit and get some sleep and enjoy the final 2.5 weeks.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 13 February, 2018, 03:55:27 pm
I can think of an object that's 250,000 miles away, certainly a record to aim for....

in context can anyone think of what would be the next longest mileage in that time? I would imagine some pros might manage 100 miles a day in training / racing but not all year round.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 13 February, 2018, 07:52:19 pm
I can think of an object that's 250,000 miles away, certainly a record to aim for....

in context can anyone think of what would be the next longest mileage in that time? I would imagine some pros might manage 100 miles a day in training / racing but not all year round.

typical PRO mileage is 20-25 k miles per year
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 13 February, 2018, 09:05:58 pm
Some days Tommy spent chunks of the day sat in the middle of a fast peloton

I know but those last 3 days look pretty hard to believe; was the fast peleton riding all day with him?

We know the distance is possible as Amanda and Kurt have done it (and Steve is coming very close) but by a different means, bashing out a roughly equal distance throughout the year

I'm with you Martin, I'm glad that the record has been broken as we've been given something that is very much easier to believe, and the more attempts that are made at it seem to suggest that steady daily mileage is the best way.

I don't believe that pacing alone is enough to account for the spell of vastly increased mileage in the middle of the year, and who is this peleton that can afford to give so much time of themselves?

There are better students here of the Year Record, but I'll try: Tommy was a pro and had support from his team. They supplied elite riders to pace him during part of his attempt (I think when the race with a rival was getting tight?). This is a resource not available to any of the 21st Century aspirants!

Look at the pace ridden in the very long Tour de France stages backintheday to see what the pros could sustain all day in a pack. The increase still looks huge, I admit - but it's not inconceivable IMO.

Wrong. Tommy BECAME a pro to take on the year record as he gained sponsorship. He was an amateur for all the years previously and never raced for anyone bar a road club.

There were no pro team pelotons in the 1940s in the UK as you speak of as road racing was dead. It was all track sprinting and time trialling. We are not sure how Tommy got his "pace" the best evidence is that Charlie Davey coaxed him along in a car. There is ZERO evidence on the record of any pro-team pacing. Tommy's attempt was on a shoe string even when Raleigh were sponsoring him (with kit and a coach, not much else). His second biggest day was witnessed by Harry England the editor of Cycling magazine. Not one mention of pelotons, pros, lorries or anything but an incredible effort egged on by his coach.

I am so so so so so so so so so so so fed up with the internet hearsay about Tommy's record almost all of which is 100% supposition.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Freya on 13 February, 2018, 09:43:35 pm
I understand the frustration, but given that the pacing was thought at the time to be significant enough to be banned by the teams concerned in the interests of 'sportsmanship', & that his daily mileage dropped  considerably after it was stopped, you have to admit the suspicion is that it consisted of more than some bloke hanging out of the car window yelling 'Come on Tommy, Dig In'
Not implying that he did anything wrong, btw.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 13 February, 2018, 10:44:12 pm

There were no pro team pelotons in the 1940s in the UK as you speak of as road racing was dead. It was all track sprinting and time trialling. We are not sure how Tommy got his "pace" the best evidence is that Charlie Davey coaxed him along in a car. There is ZERO evidence on the record of any pro-team pacing. Tommy's attempt was on a shoe string even when Raleigh were sponsoring him (with kit and a coach, not much else). His second biggest day was witnessed by Harry England the editor of Cycling magazine. Not one mention of pelotons, pros, lorries or anything but an incredible effort egged on by his coach.

I am so so so so so so so so so so so fed up with the internet hearsay about Tommy's record almost all of which is 100% supposition.

well it may be hearsay but I'm struggling to buy how anyone could ride 361 miles in a day and then 289 the next, on a steel bike with just a support car.

June 1939 distances

19th 258 miles
20th 295 miles
21st 361 miles
22nd 289 miles

What's the longest recorded (one day, not overnight) distance that was recorded in Steve Kurt or Amanda's recent attempts?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 13 February, 2018, 10:54:30 pm
I thought I'd dig back into some old discussions of this. I doubt many people have seen this, so I though it was worth reposting. Does anyone know this guy? Sounds like he's done his research:

"There are better students here of the Year Record, but I'll try: Tommy was a pro and had support from his team. They supplied elite riders to pace him during part of his attempt (I think when the race with a rival was getting tight?). This is a resource not available to any of the 21st Century aspirants!"

Sorry you know me, I have to step in a bit here.

Tommy was not a pro in the modern day sense. He was a pro by definition of being sponsored. He only rode a maximum of 3-4 months (May to August) with support from Charlie Davey in a car. I find no record at all of any team of riders drafting him, these sorts of teams did not exist in the UK as road racing was dead. Raleigh mainly sponsored track sprinters, these guys would not and did not ride with him day in day out.  He was "paced" by Davey shouting at him from the car. Bennett had Rene Menzies shouting at him from a sidecar. It's possible the two of them drafted the occasional lorry.

Steve is bloody amazing. Tommy and Bernard were equally amazing. All three fought the British roads man-to-road.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Freya on 13 February, 2018, 11:09:05 pm
But he also says:
‘We are not sure how Tommy got his “pace” ‘
The point is, whatever it consisted of, it was significant enough to have an effect on his riding.. So significant that for whatever reason it was decided to ban it. Whatever ‘it’ was.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 14 February, 2018, 07:35:55 am
I understand the frustration, but given that the pacing was thought at the time to be significant enough to be banned by the teams concerned in the interests of 'sportsmanship', & that his daily mileage dropped  considerably after it was stopped, you have to admit the suspicion is that it consisted of more than some bloke hanging out of the car window yelling 'Come on Tommy, Dig In'
Not implying that he did anything wrong, btw.

It dropped as he went into winter following a pattern that seems consistent with the light fading and the onset of war removing his ability to use lights. He was also ahead of target and ahead of his main rival by now.  There was definitely an impact on his figures by the mutual agreement between the two bicycle manufacturers to leave them alone, but not as big as you imply.

But I'm a massive fan of facts. Which is why I've spent years looking for the mileage cards, photos of Tommy in a team, entries in the Raleigh accounts paying for said team and personal accounts etc... I found one account as I've stated previously of the editor of Cycling magazine who followed Tommy on a 300 mile day makes no reference to any means other than Davey.

Help me find the facts? Not from your computer but from the record. Not from the implication of pacing but from some words on paper that actually happened. It's like the "fact" that he went to Ireland to ride for a bit but did not like it. I cannot find a shred of evidence and trust me I've looked everywhere. The only photo I found of Godwin with other riders was a rally at the end of the record and he was on the bloody front!! Also remember that Bennett was accused of the same, no photos of him in packs, no mention of other riders only mention of Menzies and his motorbike.

Trouble is in the day of the internet everyone will Google instead, find a forum of audaxers and suddenly some "idea" becomes fact and denigrates this great and pioneering record.  So I am going to keep replying to ensure that it doesn't become another fact. There's enough bollocks out there about Kurt already that is simply not true and he only finished a few years back.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Citizenfish on 14 February, 2018, 07:37:30 am
I thought I'd dig back into some old discussions of this. I doubt many people have seen this, so I though it was worth reposting. Does anyone know this guy? Sounds like he's done his research:

"There are better students here of the Year Record, but I'll try: Tommy was a pro and had support from his team. They supplied elite riders to pace him during part of his attempt (I think when the race with a rival was getting tight?). This is a resource not available to any of the 21st Century aspirants!"

Sorry you know me, I have to step in a bit here.

Tommy was not a pro in the modern day sense. He was a pro by definition of being sponsored. He only rode a maximum of 3-4 months (May to August) with support from Charlie Davey in a car. I find no record at all of any team of riders drafting him, these sorts of teams did not exist in the UK as road racing was dead. Raleigh mainly sponsored track sprinters, these guys would not and did not ride with him day in day out.  He was "paced" by Davey shouting at him from the car. Bennett had Rene Menzies shouting at him from a sidecar. It's possible the two of them drafted the occasional lorry.

Steve is bloody amazing. Tommy and Bernard were equally amazing. All three fought the British roads man-to-road.

Just some idiot who researched the Year record for 10 years, brought it back into public attention with a series of articles and then wrote a book about it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rob on 14 February, 2018, 08:36:57 am
I thought I'd dig back into some old discussions of this. I doubt many people have seen this, so I though it was worth reposting. Does anyone know this guy? Sounds like he's done his research:

"There are better students here of the Year Record, but I'll try: Tommy was a pro and had support from his team. They supplied elite riders to pace him during part of his attempt (I think when the race with a rival was getting tight?). This is a resource not available to any of the 21st Century aspirants!"

Sorry you know me, I have to step in a bit here.

Tommy was not a pro in the modern day sense. He was a pro by definition of being sponsored. He only rode a maximum of 3-4 months (May to August) with support from Charlie Davey in a car. I find no record at all of any team of riders drafting him, these sorts of teams did not exist in the UK as road racing was dead. Raleigh mainly sponsored track sprinters, these guys would not and did not ride with him day in day out.  He was "paced" by Davey shouting at him from the car. Bennett had Rene Menzies shouting at him from a sidecar. It's possible the two of them drafted the occasional lorry.

Steve is bloody amazing. Tommy and Bernard were equally amazing. All three fought the British roads man-to-road.

Just some idiot who researched the Year record for 10 years, brought it back into public attention with a series of articles and then wrote a book about it.

I very much appreciate what you’ve added on here.   Could you pop over to the TT forum and do the same at some point ?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 14 February, 2018, 08:41:26 am
Let me correct that for you 'and wrote a bloody good book about it'

Sent from my P01W using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 14 February, 2018, 10:31:48 am
Haven't read all the comments yet but I probably will in a few weeks time.

The game is up for me.
Mostly killed by sleep apnea. I reckon ifI never cottoned on to my having sleep apnea I'd have got so far behind and felt so terrible by November that I'd have stopped then. I did get very bad!
Getting run over then coming off on ice pretty much ended my getting the men's record. I'm just not recovering fast enough and am still limping along at 13-14mph. Ironically I feel much better than I have in months now that I've taken steps to reduce or maybe even eliminate the effects of apnea. I reckon it really started catching up with me after 2 months but the rote had set in from day 1. It does give possible answers to so many other issues. So much to go into!

I won't try again. Or at least it's highly unlikely. The only way I'd have another go would be if I can have a full support crew and have nothing else to do but ride the bike, eat and sleep. Probably on Flatlands or something similar where I dont have to avoid traffic hold ups and ice etc. It would cost hundreds of thousands for that to happen as it would probably be abroad.

I'll be back here when it's over to explain a whole lot more.
But for now, I'm just aiming for the 73,000. That should be "easy", or at least non stressful and I can enjoy the last few weeks. However, I am hoping that means that the extra sleep that is giving me will rejuvenate me a bit and I can have a good smash up at the end, just to see what might have been with, at least, reduced if not no effects of sleep apnea and injury free. But only time will tell if I get to have that chance.
One of my reasons for riding was to get my name out in the public so I can do other big rides and get the sponsors etc because this is an expensive hobby/career.
It's gone on two years longer than I wanted it to.
Lessons have been learned and I'll come out of it better equiped for future challenges etc. But for the next year I plan to help others, have fun and get back into training, along wth lots of other stuff including writing a book.

Just out for a tactical short 100 miles or so today to avoid strong headwinds tomorrow when I'll start earlier and make up a few miles lost today.

See you all soon. :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Andydauddwr on 14 February, 2018, 10:45:27 am
Fair play Steve.

Your adventure has certainly captured a lot of imaginations and to call it awe-inspiring is not really doing it justice.

Enjoy the last bit and hope to see you back in the world of Audax soon!

Chapeau!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 14 February, 2018, 10:55:23 am
A great effort, and IMO a sensible decision.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 14 February, 2018, 10:56:22 am
73 000

So easy to type.

Seventy three thousand

It seems a lot bigger written out like that. An incredible number of miles. Go Steve
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 14 February, 2018, 12:05:15 pm

One of my reasons for riding was to get my name out in the public so I can do other big rides and get the sponsors etc because this is an expensive hobby/career.


That was always my feeling and it's the most sensible approach. I am not sure it is the most sensible of challenges to achieve your goals. I appreciate "generic mileage" involves a somewhat lower budget than cycling around the world a la Beaumont, but in return you get a lot less public profile too.

Personally I think the "round Britain in 22 days" record is well within your capabilities, it can be done with a reasonably low budget (I once worked it out at somewhere around 3 grand in its leanest, unsupported form). It's a record which is fresher in the mind of people and it's been brought back to the media attention by Guy Martin's failed attempt, so someone already laid the groundworks for you.
In my opinion, if you look for public profile, you will get a lot more by doing that in 20 days, than by "generic cycling" for 365... just a better return on investment.

When Sanders did it, it was all over the local and national news. He was very cunning and arranged for radio interviews along the way, but you could easily do that too and a lot better with modern social media.

Read Sanders book and see what you think

https://www.amazon.co.uk/22-Days-Around-Coast-Britain/dp/0946940037
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: canny colin on 14 February, 2018, 02:06:08 pm
Well done steve . Seventy three thousand miles  would be a massive achievement .  Gan Canny steve 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 14 February, 2018, 02:16:09 pm
Chapeau!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andyoxon on 14 February, 2018, 04:21:05 pm
Go Steve!  All the best for the final push to 73K.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hillbilly on 14 February, 2018, 05:22:00 pm
If I started to count from 1 to 73,000 it would probably take around 6 hours. 

More if I have to drink some wine or pause to contemplate why I'm spending my life doing it.

That's a lot of numbers. 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 14 February, 2018, 06:06:14 pm

I won't try again. Or at least it's highly unlikely. The only way I'd have another go would be if I can have a full support crew and have nothing else to do but ride the bike, eat and sleep. Probably on Flatlands or something similar where I dont have to avoid traffic hold ups and ice etc. It would cost hundreds of thousands for that to happen as it would probably be abroad.

<snip>

One of my reasons for riding was to get my name out in the public so I can do other big rides and get the sponsors etc because this is an expensive hobby/career.

Round the world in 77 days.  You heard it here first ;)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 14 February, 2018, 06:12:12 pm
Incredible, inspirational effort.  Massive congratulations on all you have achieved.   

On the health front.... I hope you have had a proper sleep diagnostics assessment.  If not, then please don't assume that because it feels like you are getting better sleep that the problem is fixed.   You could well still be having apneas and not knowing about it and if you want to do more distance challenges in the future you need to get that sorted.    You could be a prime candidate for cpap treatment so make sure you hassle your GP for a proper diagnosis.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Canardly on 14 February, 2018, 09:13:14 pm
Chapeau. Amazing.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 14 February, 2018, 09:35:03 pm
73000.

That’s just a little more than my Eddington number.

1000 times.

In one year.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Speshact on 14 February, 2018, 09:53:56 pm
Go Steve! An amazing journey, Chapeau.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 14 February, 2018, 11:18:21 pm
I’m sitting in the chair that Steve sat in some months ago, during  his quite achievable aim to do the Godwin (before the moped twunt)

Records are great. Achievements are better. Endeavour is best.

Round the UK record? I’d help support that.

PS 73,000 Chapeaux
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Robh on 14 February, 2018, 11:27:29 pm
What can I say? Your redefined objective seems eminently sensible under the circumstances. Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 15 February, 2018, 04:24:23 pm
A huge achievement given all the circumstances.  You gave life to a record that had become moribund.  And you are the only rider to have completed 100,000km in a year twice!  Beyond my imagination.  Very well done.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 15 February, 2018, 09:18:33 pm
An astonishing feat in every respect draws to a close. Ride safe, Steve. I hope you have plans for your physical recovery and good health when this ends.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Martin on 15 February, 2018, 10:00:48 pm
Yes truly astonishing; Steve's achievement is certainly worthy of a record; longest continuous daily distance? but that would require a ride every day during the period
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 15 February, 2018, 10:08:32 pm
When I rode a few miles with Steve in the summer, he said he may as well continue with the record attempt, as if he wasn't doing it...



...he'd only be out riding his bike anyway.  ;D

Go Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 16 February, 2018, 01:55:58 pm
I note the whole of yesterday wasn't registered by the live tracker. Does it still count?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 22 February, 2018, 08:37:07 am
71,568 71,646 miles done, 10 days to go.

(edit: using Strava rather than incomplete live tracker data)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 22 February, 2018, 07:31:19 pm
And likely the coldest 10 days of the last year  :-\
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Pickled Onion on 22 February, 2018, 08:35:24 pm
Coldest 10 days of the last decade, I reckon, but the forecast is dry which is the most important thing for cycling at low temperatures.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 22 February, 2018, 08:53:48 pm
It’s the wind that’ll be the worst, it was bitter today and it wasn’t that cold.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 23 February, 2018, 10:06:05 am
Steve knows how to dress for the cold.

He doesn't have a magic wand to deflect really stiff winds  (like we get from the SW for much of the year), or to stay upright on ice or thick snow.

So I'd say the upcoming forecast isn't TOO unfavourable for mile-munching on main roads. He's had worse already!

(worse is 3-5'c, strong winds and rain. With a few hours of frost in-between just to keep thing "interesting" ... )
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 23 February, 2018, 10:18:05 am
Steve knows how to dress for the cold.

He doesn't have a magic wand to deflect really stiff winds  (like we get from the SW for much of the year), or to stay upright on ice or thick snow.

So I'd say the upcoming forecast isn't TOO unfavourable for mile-munching on main roads. He's had worse already!

(worse is 3-5'c, strong winds and rain. With a few hours of frost in-between just to keep thing "interesting" ... )

Next week might get interesting, with low in the -5 to -10 region and the possibility of light snow to plaster the tarmac with treacherous patches...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 23 February, 2018, 10:38:10 am
(worse is 3-5'c, strong winds and rain. With a few hours of frost in-between just to keep thing "interesting" ... )

The one for our part of Bucks is worse than you posit IMO. No rain, but sub-zero and fairly strong easterly winds. Plus a chance of snow the further east you go. 

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/forecast/gcpqrnvqc#?date=2018-02-28

https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/forecast/u1214b469#?date=2018-02-26

Difficult to dress for that and still cycle efficiently  :). I know Steve can tolerate the cold, but it’s still not going to be pleasant or easy. I wish him well.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 23 February, 2018, 10:56:16 am
Reminds me, time to cancel the Standing Order.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 23 February, 2018, 11:07:47 am
I don’t doubt Steve’s physical and psychological ability to cope with cold temperatures, but cold temperatures unavoidably slow you down.

If you change the air temperature on Bike Calculator (http://bikecalculator.com/) from the default to −10°C while leaving alone all the other defaults, the speed drops over 1 km/h just from the increased density of cold air. In reality, speed drops more because bulky clothing is needed that compounds the increase in drag, tyres have higher rolling resistance at lower temperatures, and the body has more difficulty producing power in those temperatures while surviving.

Go Steve! I have followed these years in awe.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 23 February, 2018, 12:45:24 pm
...

 Plus a chance of snow the further east you go. 
fortunately there is a simple solution for bad weather in the east ... ;)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 23 February, 2018, 02:05:32 pm
Indeed, but it's not such a flat area to the west. Of course he can go back to his loop ride (which is about 15 miles North of where I live) but the cold and stiff breeze - which perceptively feels stronger than forecast - will still be unpleasant.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 24 February, 2018, 10:38:21 am
Given there is no record to go for and no other past rider to overtake, I really don't see the point of this challenge any more. 71,500 or 73,000 what difference does it make? It's just a number. With a week of sub zero temperature ahead, is it worth it?

Looking at his recent rides, the loss of pace is staggering and suggesting something is going on. Steve keeps blaming injuries, but I would call it chronic fatigue.
He should be able to average 16 mph with ease, but he barely manages 13. It's just not right... at no point I have ever been so slow on flattish terrain and if I was, I would probably stop immediately, before any damage becomes chronic or worse permanent. He probably badly needs a long period of rest and maybe to see his GP, the sooner the better
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 24 February, 2018, 11:57:12 am
Yes, but aren't many (most?) of us enthused/driven by entirely arbitrary targets, with records being interesting, though far out of reach?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 24 February, 2018, 12:01:09 pm
Given the forecast weather, it's probably just as well the record(s) is/are beyond reach.  It would have been tortuous to see Steve battling to make 200+ mile days in these conditions.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 24 February, 2018, 12:05:44 pm
Yes, but aren't many (most?) of us enthused/driven by entirely arbitrary targets, with records being interesting, though far out of reach?

People have always enjoyed sports vicariously and there is nothing much wrong with that.  Watching somebody drive themselves into the ground and possibly worse is of a different order.  And I personally don't think the argument that someone is doing what they want is necessarily sufficient grounds for encouragement.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 24 February, 2018, 12:05:58 pm
Yes, but aren't many (most?) of us enthused/driven by entirely arbitrary targets, with records being interesting, though far out of reach?

True, but if I have to risk a collar bone cycling on ice to get the 12th month in of an RRTY attempt that is missing a month anyway and it won't be validated, I won't probably bother, would you?
It's where you place the line of sanity...
IMO TG is hurting himself and at this point without a good reason
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 24 February, 2018, 12:31:57 pm
- Digging in for 10 days to cap 3 years of dedication, bad luck and sheer determination, chasing a childhood dream, with 100s of friends willing him on;

vs

- Riding 200k to finish a RRTY.


Rather different situations, I'd say ...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 24 February, 2018, 12:36:42 pm
- Digging in for 10 days to cap 3 years of dedication, bad luck and sheer determination, chasing a childhood dream, with 100s of friends willing him on;

vs

- Riding 200k to finish a RRTY.


Rather different situations, I'd say ...

Yes,

however the parallel was not about the magnitude of the achievement but about putting a lot of effort and taking a lot of risks for a very small (if any) reward.

Can you honestly say that riding 72,000 or 73,000 is going to make any difference at this stage?

Anyway, not my call...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 24 February, 2018, 12:52:50 pm
Can you honestly say that riding 72,000 or 73,000 is going to make any difference at this stage?
That's how record attempts work, every mile/metre/second counts. Did anyone urge Amanda to stop on the day she beat the Searvogel total?

Steve's not going to break "the" record, but this is his one shot at setting a  respectable/representative PB. Talk to anyone that competes at a decent level - they want their PB to be as good as possible.

Closest relevant example is probably the 24h champs - quite often the winner could climb off with 30mins to go. But they never do - by choice, anyway!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 24 February, 2018, 01:01:36 pm

Closest relevant example is probably the 24h champs - quite often the winner could climb off with 30mins to go. But they never do - by choice, anyway!

Would they if they realised there is something wrong with their body? Should they?
As per above, if my average speed dropped by 3 mph, with everything else being equal, I would probably begin to worry... currently he cycles at the same speed as someone 30 years older than he is... it can't be right
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 24 February, 2018, 03:12:20 pm
I believe he made a decision to take it easy for the last couple of weeks. I hope that’s not what you’re using to make a medical diagnosis.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 24 February, 2018, 04:45:55 pm
Steve’s own comments on Strava suggest he expected to be faster and has no explanation as to why he is not.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 24 February, 2018, 04:59:56 pm
Steve’s own comments on Strava suggest he expected to be faster and has no explanation as to why he is not.

This.

My impression is that he wanted to lower the mileage, not the pace
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: PAC on 24 February, 2018, 06:27:41 pm
He looked well in his comfort zone when I said hello to him earlier today near Chinnor.  I was driving along a straight section of the B4009 towards Chinnor and saw a cyclist far in the distance...I said to my wife I reckoned it was Steve, and sure enough, it was :thumbsup: He was cruising along nicely in the sunshine, although I reckon he’s aiming to get back to MK before the roads get icy this evening.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 24 February, 2018, 08:50:48 pm
I imagine that the body will react much in the same way as someone finishing a punishing schedule at work and then winding down for a holiday. It won't get faster it'll get slower and perhaps pick up whatever bugs are about. Physically and mentally it must be hard for Steve to ride towards the end of the year.
He's had such bad luck with the accidents but as others have already said he has achieved so much since he set out on the first attempt.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 24 February, 2018, 09:22:09 pm
If you look at the year on Strava there has been a long slow decline in mileage. It looks very much like Steve has just got tierd. Not surprising really.

Steve

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 24 February, 2018, 11:33:40 pm
His achievements are huge. Most miles by anyone over a 3 year period; his efforts have lead others to beat Godwin's record, even though Steve himself didn't do so. 4th (I think) highest annual mileage and 2nd British annual mileage.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 25 February, 2018, 10:38:42 am
7 days to go, 71,904 miles done.

Hypothetical final totals:

Last 7 days = 1,068 miles => 72,927 miles

Best 7 days this attempt = 1,670 miles => 73,574 miles
Best 7 days in 2018 = 1,506 miles => 73,410 miles
Worst 7 days this attempt = 918 miles => 72,822 miles
Worst 7 days this attempt where he rode every day = 980 miles => 72,884 miles
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 25 February, 2018, 01:35:14 pm
7 days to go, 71,904 miles done.

Hypothetical final totals:

Last 7 days = 1,068 miles => 72,927 miles

Best 7 days this attempt = 1,670 miles => 73,574 miles
Best 7 days in 2018 = 1,506 miles => 73,410 miles
Worst 7 days this attempt = 918 miles => 72,822 miles
Worst 7 days this attempt where he rode every day = 980 miles => 72,884 miles

With an amber warning for snow, I would like to hope he just stays home instead...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DCLane on 25 February, 2018, 01:54:08 pm
He'll make 72000+ miles. In one year.

Whatever Steve ends at for me that's an incredible result.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 February, 2018, 05:18:42 pm
7 days to go, 71,904 miles done.

Hypothetical final totals:

Last 7 days = 1,068 miles => 72,927 miles

Best 7 days this attempt = 1,670 miles => 73,574 miles
Best 7 days in 2018 = 1,506 miles => 73,410 miles
Worst 7 days this attempt = 918 miles => 72,822 miles
Worst 7 days this attempt where he rode every day = 980 miles => 72,884 miles

With an amber warning for snow, I would like to hope he just stays home instead...
I bet you are a real wow at parties.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 25 February, 2018, 08:46:51 pm
Also, he's unlikely to just stop when he does stop.

Going from that level of exercise a day to nothing would not be good for his health. He'll need to wind down gradually for a period once the years are up. (I don't think this will be hard for him, I don't think he can imagine riding less then a few thousand miles per month just for pleasure.)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 26 February, 2018, 07:04:24 am
Also, he's unlikely to just stop when he does stop.

Going from that level of exercise a day to nothing would not be good for his health. He'll need to wind down gradually for a period once the years are up. (I don't think this will be hard for him, I don't think he can imagine riding less then a few thousand miles per month just for pleasure.)
I think Steve will find some cycling activities to fill his spare time. It is the time that is not spare that concerns me. Most of us have jobs or other activities to fill the day and cycling is a welcome distraction.

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: orraloon on 26 February, 2018, 08:25:50 am
Wasn't there a post somewhere by Steve saying he wanted to join Idai in a LEJOGLE record attempt in the summer using a Morpheus tandem?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 26 February, 2018, 12:54:47 pm
Wasn't there a post somewhere by Steve saying he wanted to join Idai in a LEJOGLE record attempt in the summer using a Morpheus tandem?

Well that is about 10 days accounted for .....
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 26 February, 2018, 01:04:28 pm
Believe he plans to write a book I read previously
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 26 February, 2018, 01:16:44 pm
Believe he plans to write a book I read previously

He should write "a book"... although if he doesn't raise his profile significantly, I don't see Waterstones rushing to get copies on the shelves. Before publishing a book, he needs people interested in cycling to have heard of his name... some stunt that would give him headlines... something that can be sorted in a week or two of mad pedalling, rather than 3 years...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LEE on 26 February, 2018, 01:29:24 pm
He's had such bad luck with the accidents

...or has he had the same amount of accidents we all have, Pro Rata ?

He's basically cycled a lifetime's mileage* in 3 years

*The lifetime of someone who cycles a lot...in all weathers...in poor visibility...on busy roads.

I'd say that anyone attempting to emulate Steve should factor in a couple of accidents and injury-related interruptions.  It would be more surprising to me if there were no accidents.

Actually, when I think about it, he's cycled about 20 years of my driving mileage in 3 years!!!!!!!  Amazing.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 26 February, 2018, 05:26:20 pm
Believe he plans to write a book I read previously

As you’ve already read it, what’s it like?  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ham on 26 February, 2018, 05:30:52 pm
Bloody long, with an unexpected and slightly unsatisfying ending?

I'd ante up for a copy.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 26 February, 2018, 06:16:49 pm
 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Arry-R on 26 February, 2018, 06:18:35 pm
Believe he plans to write a book I read previously

As you’ve already read it, what’s it like?  ;D

RED on a previous thread i shd ave said!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: fastpedaller on 26 February, 2018, 07:33:49 pm
Believe he plans to write a book I read previously

He should write "a book"... although if he doesn't raise his profile significantly, I don't see Waterstones rushing to get copies on the shelves. Before publishing a book, he needs people interested in cycling to have heard of his name... some stunt that would give him headlines... something that can be sorted in a week or two of mad pedalling, rather than 3 years...

What he's done must be the hardest effort. I know people say the hour record is hard, but surely it must be easier (at least mentally).
IMHO the hour record is the one to go for - it would even be possible (maybe not financially though) to have several attempts during a year. I'm surprised more top-class cyclists don't go for it. :o


Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 26 February, 2018, 08:53:18 pm
What he's done must be the hardest effort. I know people say the hour record is hard, but surely it must be easier (at least mentally).
IMHO the hour record is the one to go for - it would even be possible (maybe not financially though) to have several attempts during a year. I'm surprised more top-class cyclists don't go for it. :o

Read the book by Michael Hutchinson... it's a great insight into the hour record.

Why more people don't go for it?

1) It is a serious financial committment

2) There are probably only a handful of people in the world who have a realistic chance on a good day to challenge Wiggins time

3) The record stands at such a level that one rider needs to commit a significant portion of his racing season to do just that.

4) I hope you are not suggesting TG should go for the hour record...  realistically you need north of 450 Watt average for an hour to even begin to think about it... 250 won't cut it, I'm afraid  ::-)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: danridesbikes on 26 February, 2018, 09:20:22 pm
Quote
Why more people don't go for it?

because science

https://www.shopforwatts.co.uk/blogs/news/dowsett-hour-record-take-2
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 26 February, 2018, 09:36:03 pm
2) There are probably only a handful of people in the world who have a realistic chance on a good day to challenge Wiggins time

Wasn’t his time around an hour? I think Steve has proven by now that he can do that.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 February, 2018, 06:27:34 am
2) There are probably only a handful of people in the world who have a realistic chance on a good day to challenge Wiggins time

Wasn’t his time around an hour? I think Steve has proven by now that he can do that.

Yeah, alright... distance...

Oh yeah, Steve can definitively ride for an hour!

A number of people have tried amateur attempts, most of them never bothered to pay UCI to have officials on the ground. A few years ago an Italian guy even made the national news with his attempt. He managed to ride about 40 km in an hour, which is not bad for an amateur, but can probably be achieved by anyone with 250 Watt or so.
Turning 40 into 50+ needs nearly twice as much power...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 27 February, 2018, 08:17:36 am
If you look at TGs most impressive strength ...the ability to cycle hills over big distance with incredible efficiency.   I would say the round the coast of Britain record is the one to go for.   Either that or some big cross continent records that have climbing built in.


Maybe start off with some time trialing followed by a crack at the lejogle record to build speed and power back up first
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 February, 2018, 08:44:16 am
If you look at TGs most impressive strength ...the ability to cycle hills over big distance with incredible efficiency.   I would say the round the coast of Britain record is the one to go for.   Either that or some big cross continent records that have climbing built in.

I agree... although the record is 22 days for 4800 miles, so going for 20 means 240 miles a day... he definitively needs serious speed if he wants to get some sleep!!
Sanders was arguably a quicker cyclist and a much younger one!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 27 February, 2018, 09:27:04 am
He managed to ride about 40 km in an hour, which is not bad for an amateur, but can probably be achieved by anyone with 250 Watt or so.

Yup. 230W is the usual figure quoted by TTers for someone looking to break an hour for a 25 mile time trial (assuming suitable bike and aerodynamic setup).

Discussed here: https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=106691.0
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: swampthing on 27 February, 2018, 10:12:47 am
IMHO the hour record is the one to go for

Marginalia:
Speed-related records like "the hour" (and transcontinentals) surely require a different type of rider than Steve. 

But I think Steve does hold another hour record yet:

Amanda Coker holds the miles record for cycling the most miles in one year.

Steve holds the hour record for cycling the most hours in one year.

Amanda rode around 4,264 hours for her HAMR (average of 11.7 hours/ day, slightly more than Kurt Searvogel's 11.5 hours/ day). Steve has exceeded 4,600 hours yet (12.8 hours/ day till February 27th). If Strava-data is correct he beat his own record of 4,317 hours in 2015 (11.8 hours/ day).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: The French Tandem on 27 February, 2018, 10:23:40 am
Wasn't there a post somewhere by Steve saying he wanted to join Idai in a LEJOGLE record attempt in the summer using a Morpheus tandem?

I'm eager to know what's the reason behind this choice of machine. And who's going to sit on the recumbent end?

A
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 27 February, 2018, 10:47:06 am
Wasn't there a post somewhere by Steve saying he wanted to join Idai in a LEJOGLE record attempt in the summer using a Morpheus tandem?

I'm eager to know what's the reason behind this choice of machine. And who's going to sit on the recumbent end?

A

He was asking for volunteers, for either front or back seat.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 27 February, 2018, 01:43:52 pm
Interesting mention of Hutch's book, which was riveting, despite knowing the outcome.  I imagine that Steve's could be similar.

Of course, Steve will still have his (second) UMCA age classification record.  OK, so it's the third furthest age classified ride recorded, but it is separated.  So Amanda, Kurt and Steve will all hold records.  Alicia will still hold her age classified women's record.  And Kajsa holds a Guinness Record which is unlikely ever to be broken.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 February, 2018, 02:14:31 pm
Interesting mention of Hutch's book, which was riveting, despite knowing the outcome.  I imagine that Steve's could be similar.

Well, Hutch is an accomplished journalist with a witty sense of humour, a vast vocabulary and a repository of anecdotes, as well as a very good English, probably coming from his education and academic background.

Steve is an unknown quantity in this respect.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 27 February, 2018, 02:16:26 pm
I have enjoyed Steve’s writing when I’ve come across it. He has something to say and says it well.

What about the record for time to 100,000 miles? Does Steve have that? 200,000 km?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 February, 2018, 02:25:24 pm
I have enjoyed Steve’s writing when I’ve come across it. He has something to say and says it well.

What about the record for time to 100,000 miles? Does Steve have that? 200,000 km?

Does it exist? In theory, we all have our own world record in something, some are more meaningful than others, it's a question of whether there is an official record and somebody is willing to put a stamp on it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Karla on 27 February, 2018, 02:45:22 pm
Trouble on the Triangle, by Steve Abraham (http://www.aukweb.net/mag/FmqEzdFC__SteveAbraham_Sat_Sep_13_13_37_07_2003.pdf)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 February, 2018, 03:52:45 pm
Trouble on the Triangle, by Steve Abraham (http://www.aukweb.net/mag/FmqEzdFC__SteveAbraham_Sat_Sep_13_13_37_07_2003.pdf)

It could be improved, but it reads well enough... so he can write...  :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: mattc on 27 February, 2018, 04:00:45 pm
I have enjoyed Steve’s writing when I’ve come across it. He has something to say and says it well.

What about the record for time to 100,000 miles? Does Steve have that? 200,000 km?

Does it exist? In theory, we all have our own world record in something, some are more meaningful than others, it's a question of whether there is an official record and somebody is willing to put a stamp on it.
The 1940s "T.G." broke a/the 100,000 mile record. Just a guess, but he may still hold that one? If Steve was attempting it now, he'd be behind schedule, so a long shot.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Sea of vapours on 27 February, 2018, 04:09:19 pm
Amanda reached 100,000 miles in 423 days, iirc. I assume that the UMCA has ratified that.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Oaky on 27 February, 2018, 04:11:41 pm
Amanda reached 100,000 miles in 423 days, iirc. I assume that the UMCA has ratified that.

Yep

https://www.ultracycling.com/record/amanda-coker-sets-100000-mile-record/
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 27 February, 2018, 04:55:46 pm
This has been posted on the Book of Faces:

Quote
On Saturday, his last day of his year record attempt, Steve will be riding round Milton Keynes Bowl from 3pm and is inviting you all to join him for as many laps as you wish. Granted, the weather forecast is not looking great, so watch this space in case snow hinders play. Either way, come down to support!

I presume that means laps until midnight.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wobbly John on 27 February, 2018, 08:05:19 pm
What's the betting Steve nips out for a cheeky ride on the Sunday?

 :demon:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 27 February, 2018, 08:35:26 pm
This has been posted on the Book of Faces:

Quote
On Saturday, his last day of his year record attempt, Steve will be riding round Milton Keynes Bowl from 3pm and is inviting you all to join him for as many laps as you wish. Granted, the weather forecast is not looking great, so watch this space in case snow hinders play. Either way, come down to support!

I presume that means laps until midnight.

Yay!

I think Steve needs to do what Steve wants. This is what this sounds like.

He stayed with us about 40 days into the start of this epic adventure and I don't for one minute regret supporting him or sending used fivers. It's a wonderful endeavour that has, at times, been provided with unexpected challenges but often has had people not on the road (i.e. not Steve) suggesting what he should/shouldn't do.

He should do what he wants and that's that.

Go Steve!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: postie on 27 February, 2018, 08:54:55 pm
Well said jaded! !
I have supported him as a friend with some money and on the road once.
Steve has done himself proud and when he is done and ready he can cycle to Portsmouth for a beer or five on me :thumbsup: i am sure the rest of the audax club Portsmouth crew will all welcome him like the hero he is too.

Maybe those who have been only to happy to put steve down would like to step up and have a go!!!  Just saying.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 27 February, 2018, 09:55:39 pm
Over the three years I have not felt any lack of support for Steve. There has been occasions where myself and others wondered about the wisdom and methods employed in the venture. But never a lack of support.

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: yanto on 27 February, 2018, 10:02:32 pm
What he's done must be the hardest effort. I know people say the hour record is hard, but surely it must be easier (at least mentally).
IMHO the hour record is the one to go for - it would even be possible (maybe not financially though) to have several attempts during a year. I'm surprised more top-class cyclists don't go for it. :o

Read the book by Michael Hutchinson... it's a great insight into the hour record.

Why more people don't go for it?

1) It is a serious financial committment

2) There are probably only a handful of people in the world who have a realistic chance on a good day to challenge Wiggins time

3) The record stands at such a level that one rider needs to commit a significant portion of his racing season to do just that.

4) I hope you are not suggesting TG should go for the hour record...  realistically you need north of 450 Watt average for an hour to even begin to think about it... 250 won't cut it, I'm afraid  ::-)

I've beaten Wiggin's Hr record just rocked up, did a flying lap average of 39.5 mph on a 400m outdoor velodrome, then 1 hr race most of the time way up and off the blue line by cheating using technology - only way really  ;D and I still didn't win!

112 laps   1:01:07.26hr   54.8Km/h   34.0mph

Back to Steve, well, absolutely amazing grit and determination, and inspirational, I can only (slightly) relate to him when i cycled from Salisbury, to Lands End, to John O'Groats and back to Salisbury, 2000 miles in 17 days, then chucked my bike in the shed for a month because I was so sick of riding the bloody thing!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 28 February, 2018, 01:52:26 am
Well said jaded! !
I have supported him as a friend with some money and on the road once.
Steve has done himself proud and when he is done and ready he can cycle to Portsmouth for a beer or five on me :thumbsup: i am sure the rest of the audax club Portsmouth crew will all welcome him like the hero he is too.

Maybe those who have been only to happy to put steve down would like to step up and have a go!!!  Just saying.

If you could find one, there might be some justification for your remark.  People have expressed concern for Steve's health and/or suggested he might stop.  I haven't seen anyone put him down or know of anyone who doesn't think his achievement is remarkable.  Steve will be justifiably tired.  Why don't you ride up to Milton Keynes and buy him his five beers?!  Be careful of the weather, though.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Danu on 28 February, 2018, 01:11:51 pm
Not sure that is much of a challenge to Postie, I'm sure he would only to willing to do so
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 28 February, 2018, 03:04:06 pm
I expect you're right!  But "challenge"?   Here we go again! :)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Freya on 28 February, 2018, 06:58:01 pm
Well, given the weather, I think it is something of a relief that Steve didn't have around, say,  1000 miles to go with 4 days left: That really would have been grim.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 28 February, 2018, 07:28:47 pm
I was thinking the same.

(Though if he still wants the 73,000 mile target he has 532 miles to do in 3 days. I don't think anyone would blame him if he gave it a miss)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jack_P on 01 March, 2018, 11:35:19 am
65 miles up for yesterday and i would imagine not many more to add to that today.
shame it ends like this, but better safe and in one piece.

yesterdays ride title:
"Snow started coming down near Northampton so headed for home to avoid a long walk home. The cold really does bring out any underlying injuries."
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 01 March, 2018, 11:42:41 am
No movement today, not surprisingly. It isn’t snowing much (I’m about 15 miles from MK) but the wind is making it feel bitter out there, and the roads are VERY slippery as it’s too cold for salting to work.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 01 March, 2018, 06:33:03 pm
No movement today, not surprisingly. It isn’t snowing much (I’m about 15 miles from MK) but the wind is making it feel bitter out there, and the roads are VERY slippery as it’s too cold for salting to work.

I'd be surprised if he manages to get out between today and saturday... the snow is now really settling and grit is ineffective.

Probably not the end he would have liked... hopefully he has plenty of milk, cocoa and a good book to enjoy some well deserved rest
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 02 March, 2018, 02:23:39 am
Not a good day for MK: this was stranded in Rochdale today.

Stay safe, Steve.

(http://www.zen177395.zen.co.uk/IMG_0637.JPG)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 02 March, 2018, 10:08:23 am
The bigger roads in Inner London are gritted and ice free, and have fewer cars than normal. Perhaps he can come do laps of the inner ring road?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 March, 2018, 10:37:45 am
The bigger roads in Inner London are gritted and ice free, and have fewer cars than normal. Perhaps he can come do laps of the inner ring road?

You mean the north/south circular? ::-)

I can't think of a better way to end the year... run over by a white van on the A 406
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ham on 02 March, 2018, 12:42:23 pm
inner ring road goes around the congestion charge zone-ish

Found it

(http://news.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/spl/hi/uk/03/congestion_charge/exemptions_guide/img/what_map.gif)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 March, 2018, 01:57:13 pm
inner ring road goes around the congestion charge zone-ish

Found it

(http://news.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/spl/hi/uk/03/congestion_charge/exemptions_guide/img/what_map.gif)

Oh that one... so I revise my post... just replace A 406 with Vauxhall roundabout... that is one deadly junction... literally
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 02 March, 2018, 02:46:26 pm
Vauxhall has fully segregated cycle tracks across it now - although no idea of their grit/ice status.

The Inner Ring Road wasn't a very serious suggestion - I'm just amused I did more km yesterday than Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Greenbank on 02 March, 2018, 05:47:56 pm
It's kind of lucky that he isn't still within touching distance of the record(s).

Imagine getting ~360 days into the record, on track to just beat it, requiring ~230miles each day over these last few days and being stymied by snow or forced to travel to ride on unfamiliar busy city roads that have unknown grit/ice status.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 02 March, 2018, 06:47:00 pm
If MK has had the same weather as us, it’ll be 2-3 inches deep in snow right now, which may stymie tomorrow’s finale. It may start to thaw around midnight tonight, but I suspect it will be slow.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hellymedic on 02 March, 2018, 06:53:38 pm
Steve Tweeted he was staying at home.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 02 March, 2018, 07:17:30 pm
If MK has had the same weather as us, it’ll be 2-3 inches deep in snow right now, which may stymie tomorrow’s finale. It may start to thaw around midnight tonight, but I suspect it will be slow.

I am not the most optimistic bod out there, but I have worked out that MAYBE I can resume cycling to work on wednesday
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rob on 02 March, 2018, 07:20:07 pm
I rode to work and back every day this week into Victoria.   Fine for me but not exactly practical for a mileater.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 02 March, 2018, 07:29:51 pm
Steve Tweeted he was staying at home.

So he did, and sounds pretty sanguine about it  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 March, 2018, 12:29:41 pm
Sensible....  ;D



@steve_abraham74

Last day of 1YTT today. Feeling trashed and spending the day in Wetherspoons Milton Keynes if anyone wants to come and say hello.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Von Broad on 03 March, 2018, 02:39:40 pm
@steve_abraham74

Last day of 1YTT today. Feeling trashed and spending the day in Wetherspoons Milton Keynes if anyone wants to come and say hello.

Reassuring to see that the last 3 yrs have not made a dent in his sanity :-)
I'd have popped over if I could have found the time.

His physical achievements are one thing, but personally I find the whole psychological side of what's he's been up too as, quite frankly, just bewildering. I can barely get my head round it. It's just incredible to me that never once has he expressed the sentiment of 'sod this for a game of soldiers, I'm out of here' - at least not publicly. To keep at it, day after day after day, without getting just plain sick of it is a very unusual trait in somebody - especially a pursuit that brings it's fair amount of discomfort. Doesn't matter how much we love doing something, if you do nothing else at all, sooner or later it can so often lose its gloss and we can easily divert and go do something else. It's pretty obvious that a person needs the staying power to have a crack at this, but Steve seems to have this quality in never ending lorry loads. It's not something I'd ever even want to contemplate, and I'm not sure I even like the whole challenge in itself, but it's a shame Steve got so close to conquering Tommy Goodwins record. It was his dream and he came so very close. Enjoy that drink, you deserve it - if it's alcoholic, goodness knows what his body is going to make of it after all this time! :D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 03 March, 2018, 03:38:41 pm
The Ivanoscope suggests he's still at the pub.

The final mileage looks to be 72,384 miles plus to Wetherspoons and (presumably) back.

(due to a cockup some of my recently posted numbers are about 100 miles too high)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 March, 2018, 04:27:13 pm
The Ivanoscope suggests he's still at the pub.

The final mileage looks to be 72,384 miles plus to Wetherspoons and (presumably) back.

(due to a cockup some of my recently posted numbers are about 100 miles too high)

Speed suggests he walked there...  ;D

Hope is having a great time among friends, at last
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: postie on 03 March, 2018, 04:51:48 pm
If anyone deserves a good drink its steve :thumbsup: total respect to steve for his two attempts at this record and to be honest its down to steve others did the year.

Now how many years till someone else as a go at the record?

A big well done from me .
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 March, 2018, 05:14:54 pm

Now how many years till someone else as a go at the record?


With my rational head, I'd say... it will never happen again.... it's one year of someone's life, there is no money in it, there is very limited glory in it... nobody has ever heard of Amanda Coker, before or after... it begs the question... why?

With my irrational head, I'd say... there is a challenge there, somebody will have a go... there are enough bonkers people out there to keep it going...  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: SoreTween on 03 March, 2018, 07:38:25 pm
+1 to everything Von Broad said.

Since Steve revised his target to 73,000 miles I've been thinking about that distance.  I don't think I've ever traveled that far in a year by any means.  I work away a lot, in fact I have not worked a sane distance from home since 2004.  I've had daily 80 mile round trips, obviously not even close to Steve.  I've had Monday/Friday commutes to Manchester and Edinburgh, not even close.  I spent a year on rotation to Qatar, still not going to touch Steve's distance traveled.   My max year is probably the one in which I drove 21k miles and logged four round trips across the pond (Houston & SF) plus some shorter trips overseas.  I still don't think I traveled in that year as far as Steve has ridden his bike this year.

Nor do I get close on hours worked, not even by including travel time on top of 72 hour weeks.

The sheer determination, persistence, dedication, call it what you like, is utterly alien to my mind.  Chapeau Steve.  Chapeau!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: trumpet on 03 March, 2018, 08:54:23 pm
Chapeau Steve. Amazing effort. Your record attempt will be remembered for years to come.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 03 March, 2018, 08:57:05 pm
Well, he has recorded 3 attempts, IIRC. How many miles has he notched up in 3 years? Something utterly mind-boggling. 150000? He must have done abouta thousand miles a week in that time.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: danridesbikes on 03 March, 2018, 09:30:32 pm
Quote
With my rational head, I'd say... it will never happen again....

Bruce Berkley? (Cycle_Dr1)

was meant to be doing the week again in Chiang Mai (aim was 3000km in 7 days) but seems dogged with bad luck (or guts)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Wowbagger on 03 March, 2018, 09:42:51 pm
I can't be in Milton Keynes this evening but I am supporting Steve from afar by drinking beer.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: PeterM on 03 March, 2018, 09:53:19 pm
What a hero (and nutter, of course)!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Croft on 03 March, 2018, 10:24:54 pm
Well, he has recorded 3 attempts, IIRC. How many miles has he notched up in 3 years? Something utterly mind-boggling. 150000? He must have done abouta thousand miles a week in that time.

Steve reckons he's done around 166,000 miles over the three years (excluding the Turbo!).

For context that 70% of the way to the moon.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: postrestant on 03 March, 2018, 10:37:32 pm
chapeau
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Grandad on 04 March, 2018, 01:31:42 am
I'm sure that Steve qualifies (several times over) to become a member of this club
http://300k-cc.co.uk/ (http://300k-cc.co.uk/)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 04 March, 2018, 08:13:11 am
I'm sure that Steve qualifies (several times over) to become a member of this club
http://300k-cc.co.uk/ (http://300k-cc.co.uk/)
On the Audax site he is awarded 25 SR series and these were all before this venture. One point for the club is that there is a verifiable record. I for one have only known how far I ride since the advent of Strava, so the really high mileage years in my 40s are pure guess work.

Maybe it is the same for Steve and no sane man could doubt he has ridden the 300K miles, but can it be verified? No estimates are allowed.

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 04 March, 2018, 08:42:29 am
I'm sure that Steve qualifies (several times over) to become a member of this club
http://300k-cc.co.uk/ (http://300k-cc.co.uk/)
On the Audax site he is awarded 25 SR series and these were all before this venture. One point for the club is that there is a verifiable record. I for one have only known how far I ride since the advent of Strava, so the really high mileage years in my 40s are pure guess work.

Maybe it is the same for Steve and no sane man could doubt he has ridden the 300K miles, but can it be verified? No estimates are allowed.

BB

Ah, the days when we could brag big mileage without having to provide hard electronic evidence... or tell anecdotes about past political leaders that didn't have to be backed up by Google's unarguable truth... don't you just miss all of that?



Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Grandad on 04 March, 2018, 11:29:10 am
The AUK website has information going back to 1991. Could be worth asking if the club would accept a mileage collated from the website.

   
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Grandad on 04 March, 2018, 12:28:13 pm
I've been through the AUK results pages for Steve's rides.

1994 -1999 lists a total of 636 points = 63,600 miles
2000-2014 individual results miles total 89,268
Last 3 years 166,000
Total 318,868

If he doesn't turn a pedal again this year his average yearly mileage for the 14 years will be 22,776

Plus all the other rides he has done in addition to audaxes and the record attempts.

Mind boggling.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 04 March, 2018, 01:31:53 pm
CHAPEAU!!!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 04 March, 2018, 01:50:52 pm
I've been through the AUK results pages for Steve's rides.

1994 -1999 lists a total of 636 points = 63,600 miles
2000-2014 individual results miles total 89,268
Last 3 years 166,000
Total 318,868

If he doesn't turn a pedal again this year his average yearly mileage for the 14 years will be 22,776

Plus all the other rides he has done in addition to audaxes and the record attempts.

Mind boggling.
Are we mixing miles and KM here are the first two values in KM or miles. It is 1 audax point for every 100km and that is 62.1 miles.

BB
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Grandad on 04 March, 2018, 02:32:31 pm
Oops.

2000-2014 is miles - the details list both miles and km.

Clanged on the points, 63600 is km = 39750 miles.

Total "only" 285,478.

I wonder whether Steve has a record of his other miles.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 04 March, 2018, 02:43:15 pm
Oops.

2000-2014 is miles - the details list both miles and km.

Clanged on the points, 63600 is km = 39750 miles.

Total "only" 285,478.

I wonder whether Steve has a record of his other miles.

I wonder if Steve actually cares about being part of that club... it's not that you get a discount on flights and hotels like with a NRA membership...  ;D
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Robh on 04 March, 2018, 05:00:50 pm
A belated 'well done' from me too. An incredible achievement from the man  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Tomsk on 04 March, 2018, 07:44:41 pm
From Audax Club Mid-Essex:

Chapeau Indeed ! 

 :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup: 
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: woollypigs on 04 March, 2018, 09:54:39 pm
I hope Steve told all the cafés that he won't be around anymore. As the all need to cut their orders down.

What a nutter, a right kinda nutter!

Wonder what his next pootle is?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ivan on 04 March, 2018, 09:59:48 pm
Congratulations to TG from me as well. I've lost counts of the number of times I've looked at the weather and marvelled at how anyone could keep going in conditions like that - a truly Herculean effort.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Oaky on 04 March, 2018, 10:13:37 pm
From Audax Club Mid-Essex:

Chapeau Indeed ! 

 :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:   :thumbsup:

+1

Anyone got a picture of the OYTT tea towel in it's display position in The Compasses?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: clarion on 05 March, 2018, 10:30:43 am
A Pedant Writes: Surely that should be 'TYTT' now? ;)
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: grams on 05 March, 2018, 03:19:30 pm
Total "only" 285,478.

I wonder whether Steve has a record of his other miles.

Steve's all-time mileage on Strava is 301,292 km. And he only joined in December 2012 and it looks like he only bothers uploading long rides (or perhaps he only does long rides...).

Anyway, well done Steve!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: andrew531 on 10 March, 2018, 09:41:43 pm
Congratulations to Steve. Missing catching up with his daily mileage. Hope that all is going well after such an enormous effort!
Eat, sleep, ride, repeat.............
Now
Rest ( Ride ) and recuperate!!!!
Look forward to seeing what you are up to next.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 01:01:15 pm
72,388 miles is my total distance for my 2017-18 HAMR (still to be verified by the UMCA). After my last day of my HAMR on 3rd March I pretty much ignored the whole thing and went to sleep.
Once I'd stopped, I was often falling asleep in the middle of the day. I have ignored all my messages etc on social media. Just wanted to get away from it all and just bum around for a bit. I've barely ridden my bike at all in the last two weeks and have been out for a few short walks. Now I'm starting to get back into my riding and probably do some walking then running. I'll start very easily just doing very short rides and walks while I can get on with other stuff. I've been at the HAMR for over 3 years now. Lots of stuff to sort out and put back in order.
Two weeks later, I'm feeling more awake and my legs have stopped aching. I had to do a report on my HAMR for the UMCA (as below) That should tell the very basic story but there is still more to the story and that's just the riding. I tried to keep it brief.



Steve Abraham 2017 HAMR report

I set off at midnight on March 3rd, 2017 with Matt Seward, who had ridden a few training rides with me. On that first day I clocked 319 miles and it felt easy and was a good start to my year.
The next few days went well and I felt comfortable for the rest of the month averaging around 230 miles a day. I was riding for around 95-100 hours a week, not including stops and from my power meter, my fitness seemed to be improving.
On into April and I could see signs of improvements in my fitness and my speed was increasing slightly, but my mileage had dropped, which did puzzle me because I thought that I was spending the same number of hours on the road. Looking back at my rides on Strava, I probably was spending roughly the same time out on the road but was stopping for a bit longer so was riding a few hours less each week. The decrease in mileage didn't concern me very much because I could see the increase in speed and the weather was improving. I had the whole of summer to catch up the lost miles and as I could see my speed increase I expected to get faster as the weather improved as well as my fitness hopefully improving. I was still riding around 95 hours each week.
I never really noticed any improvements in speed during May, nor did my speed increase noticeably but I was riding for slightly fewer hours. My mileage remained pretty steady at around 1550 each week, so with the good start it meant that my daily average was dropping.
I hoped that in June I would get a bit faster and maybe even ride for a few more hours each day. I didn't try to force myself to ride extra hours and never used an alarm clock to get up earlier for an early start because getting too far behind on sleep would slow me down in the long run. However, I was starting to feel more tired. Well, I wasn't expecting it to be easy and I still felt reasonably in control. Much more so than in 2015 and although my daily mileage wasn't as much as I'd have liked, I still had 4 months of good weather to come. I wasn't just feeling a bit more tired, I was feeling stronger as well, so I didn't try to force a few extra hours each week, I just tried to keep it steady and thought that better weather and improvements in my fitness would give me extra speed.
Having noticed that my speed didn't improve as much as I'd liked during June, I tried going easier and a bit slower for a few weeks. I was riding roughly the same hours as I was in April. I thought that I might have recovered, got some training effect and hopefully get my speed up some more. This did work, so for the last two weeks of July, I was around 1-2mph faster than I was in June. Instead of using the extra speed to try and do more miles, I used the extra time for more rest. I was starting to feel a bit tired and I thought that an hour or so extra sleep each day would improve my recovery and give me a further improvement in speed.
By August I was getting very tired. Physically, I felt much better. My speed hadn't dropped since I'd eased off in early July and I was feeling stronger if anything. But I was feeling more tired.
At the end of July, I rode a 24 hour time trial and finished the event in the early afternoon, which meant that I got a longer than usual sleep before I set off the next day. I was surprised at how well I was going the day after the 24 hour.
Thinking back to that ride, I decided to try getting a good sleep of around 10-12 hours then doing 2 days with little sleep in-between to try and replicate what I did on the 24 hour and the following day. I thought that riding steady might not do so much damage and that the longer sleep would give me a much better recovery than my usual sleep of around 7 hours. Then, if that worked, maybe I could do 2–3 days with minimal sleep followed by a very good long sleep for recovery.
I only kept it up for about a week and soon fell back into my more regular sleeping pattern. I was now down to riding around 85 hours a week. I didn't try to force myself to go back up to 95 hour weeks again. My speed was still OK and I thought that keeping my riding hours down to 85 hours would give me an extra 10 hours more sleep each week than my first few months. I thought that would hopefully mean an improvement in my fitness and speed. After all, I seemed to get fitter at the beginning of the year while riding 95 hours a week, so only riding for 85, in theory, should mean that I recover faster, I would have thought.
Amanda's world record was starting to look like it was getting out of my reach but I still hadn't given up on it entirely. If I could get my speed and number of riding hours up, I still might have had a chance. And if not, there was still the men’s record and my original aim to go for. Not exactly what I was after but giving up never made any sense.
By September I felt even more tired. I asked myself why I was still tired. I was riding fewer hours than I was in the first few months, so what was different? I was riding faster, so perhaps if I eased off the pace a bit, along with the extra sleep, I should recover and hopefully be able to ride faster more easily and for a few more hours. But, it didn't work.
Just over a week into September Idai, from my support team, who rides an elliptigo bike suggested I use the A505 Leighton Buzzard by-pass. I looked at his rides on Strava and from his data it looked like it might help me go a bit faster for the same effort. Elliptigos are affected by headwinds more than bicycles because you have ride them in an upright position and can't really get into a tuck like you can on a bike but Idai was getting some good speeds (for an elliptigo)
I tried the new route and it did seem to be faster for the same effort. It also had the advantage of being close to my home and being a 10 mile circuit riding up and down the same stretch of road. Roughly 1-2000ft less climbing than my regular routes and more sheltered from the wind. It was also near a town so it would be easy to get supplies. It also had a 24 hour McDonalds, which I could use for toilet and short sleep stops, as I had it in mind to do rides through the night. Being close to home meant that if I started getting sleepy I wasn't committed to a long ride home while sleepy. If I got sleepy I could take a nap in McDonalds before riding home and going to bed for a better sleep. I could also leave food, drink and clothing just off the road so that I could travel lighter and not have to send so much time stopped buying food and drink as I did on my regular routes.
Mid September I fell ill and didn't ride for two days. It wasn't that I felt so ill I couldn't ride. I was just very sleepy and didn't think it wise to ride when I was so sleepy. I thought I might be at risk of falling asleep while riding and that if I did try and ride, I'd be very slow. I thought that my time would be better spent getting over my illness as well as maybe getting some recovery so that when I went out again, I'd be faster and better rested.
After my two days spent almost entirely asleep in bed, I felt awake enough to ride but had painful legs, especially my calf muscles. I had my suspicions that it was DVT. I'd been laying in bed for a very long time and seemed to have the symptoms. If I stood still it got very painful. Even riding was painful but not as bad as standing still. I couldn't stand still for more than a few seconds and started walking on the spot whenever I had to stop, including when I stopped for a pee. It got so bad near the end of one day that I stopped for a meal so I could sit down and rest. I sat down for about 20 minutes before the pain subsided enough for me to stand at the bar to order my food.
I tried using compression stockings that I had left over from when I had the broken ankle in 2015 and they really helped relieve the pain so I bought some compression tights which made a big difference. I don't know if it was DVT or not. I did hear from another in my team who was ill at about the same time, that he also had painful legs, so it could have just been what was going around at the time. Within about a week it was pretty much gone. In spite of riding fewer hours, I was getting more and more tired.
By late September I was often feeling very tired. Sometimes sleeping at the roadside because my concentration was going. I never took any chances with getting sleepy on the road.
The best way I can describe how it felt is that feeling of tiredness you feel in your legs. I was feeling that on the inside. I was struggling to keep food down and bringing it up about once an hour. At worst I was riding for about 2 hours where I was being sick every 2 miles. I found somewhere to sleep at the roadside and was back to my normal being sick about once an hour again.
I started taking caffeine. I was already drinking coffee, but I moved on to caffeine pills.
I didn't intend it to be for the rest of my year. The idea was that the caffeine would keep me more awake so that I would ride faster. My legs didn't feel bad, I was just tired and didn't feel very good. Riding a bit faster would buy me more recovery so that I could hopefully, catch back up on sleep and be able to stop using the caffeine. The caffeine really did seem to help too. My speed increased and I felt a lot better.
Into October I was still struggling to ride around 85 hours a week but although the caffeine was helping, I knew it was a bad situation.
After giving it some thought, there was only one thing that made sense. I read up on sleep about 15 years ago and in spite of me waking up naturally every day without an alarm and getting as many hours sleep as I thought I needed, all the signs were there that I really wasn't getting enough sleep. The only thing that made sense was that I had sleep apnea. I knew that I snored. So I bought some anti snoring throat spray from a chemist to see if it helped.
When I woke up the next morning I felt a whole lot better! After a few days and feeling much better but still exhausted, I bought a chin strap and nose vents to see if I could improve on the throat spray (which wasn't really for apnea, but I knew it would probably help if I did have apnea) I felt better still. Then I had another look to see if I could go one up on the chin strap and came up with a tongue stabiliser, which is simply a device that you put your tongue into before bed. It basically looks like a todlers dummy (pacifier) and keeps your tongue pulled out while you sleep so that your airway stays unblocked. That made the world of difference. I also tried another MAD device but didn't think it was working so well so went back to the tongue stabilser.
That was a huge turning point, from there on, every day I felt better and less tired. After about a week I started to taper off the caffeine. Because I was sleeping so much better, I was feeling better, even though I was spending as many hours asleep as I was before.
When I got a little better, I even felt like I was catching up on sleep while sleeping for fewer hours than when I was falling behind on sleep. This meant that I could start to build up my riding hours again.
Coming off the caffeine did reduce my speed a bit but the extra few hours riding each week more than made up for that, so my mileage started to creep up a bit. Laying off the caffeine was only going to help me sleep better and give me a better recovery, so the short term loss would have hopefully given me a longer term gains and besides, I could always go back to caffeine at the end of the year to wring out a few extra miles.
Another reassuring sign was that in late October I became slightly ill and got a productive cough. When I normally get a productive cough, it usually gets very bad and lasts for weeks. When I started coughing I thought that having that on top of how tired I was, I might have ended up in a very bad way and been so ill that I'd have lost a lot of miles. This may have potentially ended my attempt. I do wonder if discovering my apnea when I did was just in time for me to not get beaten up by my illness. My cough never really got bad at all and was gone within a week.
Into late November and early December, I was feeling a lot better. I was still riding on the Leighton Buzzard by-pass and was getting very fed up with it. It wasn't so much using the same road all day, it was just the amount of traffic. It had a lot of advantages and it was handy not having to plan a route to get best benefit from the wind. I just found it stressful and usually stopped to eat sometime during the rush hour just to have a break from all the traffic. I also noticed that my speed didn't seem to be much better than my old routes and wanted to get back to riding the roads I used earlier in the year, just for something more interesting. Now that I was recovering from loss of sleep, I'd not want to spend as much time stopped if I could help it and my old routes did quite a good job at putting me on quieter roads when the traffic built up.
The trouble was, the weather. My routes work best with a SW wind that dies down in the evening but the wind just kept coming from the North or East so I stayed on the Leighton Buzzard by-pass, which had less climbing than my other routes. The other problem was ice. The Leighton Buzzard by-pass and my route to get there was all gritted roads which would be much safer when there's a risk of ice. Pus you learn where all the hazards are when you ride up and down the same bit of road all day, so as much as I wanted to get off the by-pass, I was stuck with it until the temperature went up a little bit and the wind changed to it's prevailing SWerly.
On 13th December, more bad luck. Someone drover their car into me at about 40-50mph from behind. No broken bones but my right leg was hit by their wing mirror, which came clean off and my right shin got tangled in my handlebars somehow. I also landed on my coccyx. The right hand drop of my handlebars was now like a 3rd tri-bar arm. I'd hate to think what my hand would have been like had I not been on my tri bars. If I'd been about a foot further into the road I'd most likely have been a lot worse off, possibly dead. So a relatively lucky escape, though it was a long wait at the roadside for an ambulance to take me to hospital for a checkup and because it was so cold my core temperature dropped down to 33 degrees. I was very close to hypothermia.
That was probably the nail in the coffin to my getting the men’s record. My injuries made me feel sleepy again and slowed me down. It was a different kind of sleepiness to what I was just getting over. I didn't feel so run down or exhausted, but it came up quite quickly. It meant that not only was I riding slower, I had to stop for a nap now and then. I never tried to ride through it because I knew that sleeping would help me recover faster.
After I was hit, I stopped using the Leighton Buzzard by-pass. The wind did more or less change to being more SWerly. I didn't rule out using it again if the conditions made it the best choice but I'd had enough of it and it wasn't really giving me any advantage that I could see.
I still had it in mind that I had my 3 attempts for the month record and was thinking of entering them at 1 week intervals, concurrently, until the end of my HAMR. I had nothing to lose. Either I wouldn't get back up to speed again but on the other hand, if I made a good recovery and if what I was doing to treat my sleep apnea worked well, I'd be kicking myself if I started going very well and never sent an entry in for the month record.
As if being hit by a car wasn't enough, just as I was starting to recover from being hit by the car a little bit, I came off on ice very hard.
I landed quite heavily on my left side. The next day I could hardly walk and leaned on my bike. To get on and off the bike I had to rest my leg on the top tube and slide it over. My new injury only made me slower and more sleepy. And while that was going on my tracker decided to give up on me and my GPSs were old and tired after so much use and abuse. So that all needed to be sorted out.
My speed never recovered. It took me about two weeks before I could walk reasonably comfortably again and get on and off my bike by swinging my leg over the top tube instead of sliding it over. Because of my injuries, I had to keep stopping for sleep now and then. I was never sleepy all the time, I just had to have a good nap when I did get sleepy and felt much better afterwards. In fact, I enjoyed the last two or three months as much as enjoyed the first few. I wasn't feeling as run down as I was a few months ago now that I was sleeping much better and caught up on sleep.
I did try riding a bit faster, but that meant that I stopped for sleep and rest more often, so I resigned to riding steady and taking a nap when I needed to. I also went back to taking caffeine to try and reduce hours spent not riding but had a watershed of 3pm so that my caffeine wouldn't intefere with my sleep at night so much.
With all the distractions from injuries, tiredness from injuries, sorting out trackers and GPSs, I only just got one entry in on time for the month record attempt. I was still hoping that I would recover from my injuries so that I could get back up to speed and riding more hours in the last month or even few weeks. But it never happened. My injuries never really healed properly and were always in the background. I did recover enough to get my riding hours back up to around 95 a week but doing that while having to take a nap during the day now and then caught up with me and I couldn't keep it up. I ended up tired again, though I think it was more physical tiredness from recovering from injuries than lack of sleep in general. Mentally I still felt good and although my speed was way down, I was enjoying the riding a lot more. I simply ran myself down until one night I was trying to get home and had to keep stopping for sleep. It was then that I knew that the game was up for me taking the men’s record so resigned myself to aiming for 73,000 for the year, an average of 200 miles a day. It also meant I wouldn't beat my month record.
I eased right off once I decided to aim for the 73,000 miles. I didn't worry too much if I fell behind by a few miles now and then because I thought that I could do a bit extra at the end. The other thing was that the weather forecast was looking bad for the last week with snow and strong winds. I didn't want to tire myself out too much before having to ride in bad weather. Also, the weather would either be not too bad, so I'd still be able to do a bit extra at the end, or it will be very bad and even if I'm in a good position to get the 73,000, very bad weather would probably spoil it so I wasn't going to batter myself just yet. Instead I just rode steady and tried to recover. I did get a bit behind what I needed for the 73,000.
In spite of riding fewer hours, I was still getting sleepy and my speed wasn't increasing. I was sleeping much more than I was in July and I was sleeping better as well. I can only guess that I was still recovering from my injuries and it was that what was making me so sleepy and slowing me down. I could certainly still feel that I had my injuries. They never really hurt, but they were definitely still there. It's the only thing that makes sense to me as to why I was feeling so much better, but was so slow and still getting sleepy.
Finally, the snow started to come. I set out to ride on local roads in case it got bad. After about 65 miles I got back home with the intention of eating, having a sleep while the roads got busy, then going out again after seeing what the road conditions were like. But I overslept and didn't go out again and as I slept the snow came down.
The next day, the roads were very hazardous with the snow and I was very tired. I certainly could have gone out and done a bit. But I doubt that I could have done much and didn't see any point in battering myself and taking risks in bad weather. If I wasn't so tired I'd have probably been more adventurous, but getting exhausted in the cold weather in very hazardous roads didn't seem wise. So for the last 3 days I didn't do anything more than push my bike in the snow for a few miles. On the last day I walked with my bike to a pub and spent the day there drinking tea and eating.
Not the result I wanted but with my sleeping disorder and injuries, I think I can say I gave it a good go and it could be argued that I might have at least done what I set out to do when I set off in 2015, to try and exceed 75,065 miles in a year. I was never expecting it to be easy and I would never have taken it easy. On the other hand, I probably didn't even realise how hard I was trying and I think that my biggest enemy was sleep apnea.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 01:15:22 pm

One of my reasons for riding was to get my name out in the public so I can do other big rides and get the sponsors etc because this is an expensive hobby/career.


That was always my feeling and it's the most sensible approach. I am not sure it is the most sensible of challenges to achieve your goals. I appreciate "generic mileage" involves a somewhat lower budget than cycling around the world a la Beaumont, but in return you get a lot less public profile too.

Personally I think the "round Britain in 22 days" record is well within your capabilities, it can be done with a reasonably low budget (I once worked it out at somewhere around 3 grand in its leanest, unsupported form). It's a record which is fresher in the mind of people and it's been brought back to the media attention by Guy Martin's failed attempt, so someone already laid the groundworks for you.
In my opinion, if you look for public profile, you will get a lot more by doing that in 20 days, than by "generic cycling" for 365... just a better return on investment.

When Sanders did it, it was all over the local and national news. He was very cunning and arranged for radio interviews along the way, but you could easily do that too and a lot better with modern social media.

Read Sanders book and see what you think

https://www.amazon.co.uk/22-Days-Around-Coast-Britain/dp/0946940037

I do have Mark B's round Britain record in mind, maybe 2019? I'd only do it if I can get at least the same sort of support. I wouldn't count on it though. Mark B is well known and well established so has very good support. He couldn't have done his round the world record without it and his round Britain ride was a practice run.
Plenty of other rides. There's always Trans Am or Tour Divide. I don't see the sense in setting off for a record attempt or race with an instant disadvantage, unless I'm absolutely sure I can get the record or am not riding to win a race. I doubt I could win Trans Am, but at least I'd be on a more level playing field riding an unsupported race.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: woollypigs on 18 March, 2018, 01:20:49 pm
Mister Grinder, I don't know what to say, two words springs to mind - wow ! and nutter (you know the best kinda person a nutter can be). Top, brilliant, champion, fantastic, jolly good show, what what!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 01:23:13 pm
Given there is no record to go for and no other past rider to overtake, I really don't see the point of this challenge any more. 71,500 or 73,000 what difference does it make? It's just a number. With a week of sub zero temperature ahead, is it worth it?

Looking at his recent rides, the loss of pace is staggering and suggesting something is going on. Steve keeps blaming injuries, but I would call it chronic fatigue.
He should be able to average 16 mph with ease, but he barely manages 13. It's just not right... at no point I have ever been so slow on flattish terrain and if I was, I would probably stop immediately, before any damage becomes chronic or worse permanent. He probably badly needs a long period of rest and maybe to see his GP, the sooner the better

Apart from my beating my own UMCA age category record and getting a PB. I don't know if you've ridden a time trial, but would you slow down if you were well on to getting your PB just because you won't win the race or get the overall world record?

I'm not entirely sure what was slowing me down so much. I felt much less tired but I could definitely feel that I still had my injuries. I was getting sleepy but it was different to several months before. I expect that the weather didn't help my speed either but as you say, 13-14mph is very slow. Even now, if I go for a walk I can still feel where my shin got tangled up in my handlebars when I was hit by the car.
I will see my GP. Mainly to try and get to a sleep clinic. I'm curious about how bad my sleep apnea really is and hope I can get a CPAP off the NHS.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 01:34:46 pm
If you look at the year on Strava there has been a long slow decline in mileage. It looks very much like Steve has just got tierd. Not surprising really.

Steve

Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk

That's right. My speed (and I reckon my fitness) did increase in the summer. I usually rode the first 200km in around 7hrs in Summer. But I was getting more tired and riding for fewer hours.
I did pick up again after I realised that I had apnea. My mileage just started to creep up again, then I got run over.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 01:40:10 pm
If you look at TGs most impressive strength ...the ability to cycle hills over big distance with incredible efficiency.   I would say the round the coast of Britain record is the one to go for.   Either that or some big cross continent records that have climbing built in.

I agree... although the record is 22 days for 4800 miles, so going for 20 means 240 miles a day... he definitively needs serious speed if he wants to get some sleep!!
Sanders was arguably a quicker cyclist and a much younger one!

Well, I did manage 236mpd for 30 days with sleep apnea and without a support crew. So perhaps sorting out sleep issues, having a support crew, a lighter bike with no luggage (Round Britain will be hilly, not like the flat roads I was riding) and get my power-weight ratio up a bit more, then who knows...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 01:43:41 pm
Wasn't there a post somewhere by Steve saying he wanted to join Idai in a LEJOGLE record attempt in the summer using a Morpheus tandem?

I'm eager to know what's the reason behind this choice of machine. And who's going to sit on the recumbent end?

A

It'd be more of a challenge, more in the spirit of the "Longest Ride" (It would be for me on that machine) and more fun.
It's best if the smallest/lightest rider goes on the front. I have had heavier riders than me on the front. It's not easy!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 18 March, 2018, 02:06:32 pm

I do have Mark B's round Britain record in mind, maybe 2019? I'd only do it if I can get at least the same sort of support. I wouldn't count on it though. Mark B is well known and well established so has very good support. He couldn't have done his round the world record without it and his round Britain ride was a practice run.


I was referring to the older Nick Sanders 22 days around Britain (4800 miles in total). He had a crew of two mates in a support car with a spare bike. Spent most nights in either B&Bs or campsites.
I think if you plan something in the summer, maybe with the idea of finishing just before school holidays to avoid the worst traffic along the coast, it shouldn't be difficult to enrol o couple of friends for what should be a pleasant car trip for them.

I don't think MB's 14 days 3500 miles "round Britain" is a record in its own right. It certainly is a long way in a very short time, but it seems a bit short of mileage to be THE "round the coast of Britain" record.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 02:09:06 pm
Oops.

2000-2014 is miles - the details list both miles and km.

Clanged on the points, 63600 is km = 39750 miles.

Total "only" 285,478.

I wonder whether Steve has a record of his other miles.

Not really but I reckon I'm on over half a million for my whole lifetime. I could probably just about get into the 300,000 mile club if they accept Audax results and some of my old Audax Mileater diaries plus Strava. I just don't have the inclination.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 18 March, 2018, 02:13:57 pm

I do have Mark B's round Britain record in mind, maybe 2019? I'd only do it if I can get at least the same sort of support. I wouldn't count on it though. Mark B is well known and well established so has very good support. He couldn't have done his round the world record without it and his round Britain ride was a practice run.


I was referring to the older Nick Sanders 22 days around Britain (4800 miles in total). He had a crew of two mates in a support car with a spare bike. Spent most nights in either B&Bs or campsites.
I think if you plan something in the summer, maybe with the idea of finishing just before school holidays to avoid the worst traffic along the coast, it shouldn't be difficult to enrol o couple of friends for what should be a pleasant car trip for them.

I don't think MB's 14 days 3500 miles "round Britain" is a record in its own right. It certainly is a long way in a very short time, but it seems a bit short of mileage to be THE "round the coast of Britain" record.

I haven't even looked at the details of that ride. I'd rather do the Nick Sanders version if it really is that different. It sounds like a more interesting ride with steep hills and narrow lanes. I'd have a pretty big advantage as well with a GPS and better lights.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 18 March, 2018, 02:25:43 pm

I do have Mark B's round Britain record in mind, maybe 2019? I'd only do it if I can get at least the same sort of support. I wouldn't count on it though. Mark B is well known and well established so has very good support. He couldn't have done his round the world record without it and his round Britain ride was a practice run.


I was referring to the older Nick Sanders 22 days around Britain (4800 miles in total). He had a crew of two mates in a support car with a spare bike. Spent most nights in either B&Bs or campsites.
I think if you plan something in the summer, maybe with the idea of finishing just before school holidays to avoid the worst traffic along the coast, it shouldn't be difficult to enrol o couple of friends for what should be a pleasant car trip for them.

I don't think MB's 14 days 3500 miles "round Britain" is a record in its own right. It certainly is a long way in a very short time, but it seems a bit short of mileage to be THE "round the coast of Britain" record.

I haven't even looked at the details of that ride. I'd rather do the Nick Sanders version if it really is that different. It sounds like a more interesting ride with steep hills and narrow lanes. I'd have a pretty big advantage as well with a GPS and better lights.

And don't forget the gears! He had a 42 x 21 or something like that to go up Bealach Na Ba... :P
I don't think he did much night riding... he did it in summer, so light for 16-18 hours a day, but yes, GPS helps immensely. His book is not very informative re. the details of the route, there is just a very generic map on it and a breakdown for each day with the key towns he went through. Surely there must be an "official" route of some description.
Guy Martin tried in December 2016... I think he lasted a week or so before his Achilles gave up, but must have planned the route very carefully and I am sure would be happy to pass on that information to you if you found a way to contact him...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: zigzag on 18 March, 2018, 11:44:28 pm
good to have back Steve! i've read your account while sitting on a turbo today - you went through a lot of hardship (in addition to all the miles ridden). i don't know / can't think of anyone else with such determination and mental fortitude. massive well done and good luck in your future challenges and adventures!
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: tonyh on 19 March, 2018, 10:20:07 am
Huge congratulations Steve, plus big thanks for the updates and answers, much appreciated (as is all of your writing).

We can now be less worried about how the recovery is going, sounds like you are handling another "interesting" time very well.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: JamesBradbury on 24 March, 2018, 09:09:07 am
Took me a while, but really enjoyed reading your report. Very interesting to hear about your thinking and strategies. Thanks for writing it.

Hugely impressed with your result in some very challenging circumstances. I hope the driver who hit you was appropriately dealt with by the police, but I can understand that not being your top priority at the time and it's lucky that you weren't more seriously injured.

Good luck with your next adventure and hope to see you on the road sometime.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Cmiller on 14 April, 2018, 12:59:49 am


nobody has ever heard of Amanda Coker, before or after... it begs the question... why?


Plenty of people over here in the states have heard of Amanda since she finished her HAMR. She's raced in 5 TT's so far this year and she's won them all, setting track records on every course she's raced. She just won the State of Florida Time Trial Championship this past weekend where she rode a 40:21 in a 30k (27.7 mph) and beat all the women (and most of the men), including pro's.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: rafletcher on 14 April, 2018, 07:36:08 pm


nobody has ever heard of Amanda Coker, before or after... it begs the question... why?


Plenty of people over here in the states have heard of Amanda since she finished her HAMR. She's raced in 5 TT's so far this year and she's won them all, setting track records on every course she's raced. She just won the State of Florida Time Trial Championship this past weekend where she rode a 40:21 in a 30k (27.7 mph) and beat all the women (and most of the men), including pro's.
.

Plenty? Out of 250 million how many do you think? A few thousand at best IMO.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Ham on 14 April, 2018, 09:35:13 pm


Plenty? Out of 250 million how many do you think? A few thousand at best IMO.

y'know, that's really uncalled for. Whether you meant it that way or not it comes over as denigrating what is truly an astonishing accomplishment, which I'm sure you didn't mean to. You have no ***** idea how many have now heard of her - a simple google shows her story was picked up by just about every cycling site, and many sporting sites. You live in the US these days? Any idea if she's been on local TV, radio?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Samuel D on 15 April, 2018, 10:17:15 am
Besides, who’s to say she did it for fame? Whosatthewheel’s question – why? – is churlish and anyway trite. It could be applied to everything anyone has ever done.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 15 April, 2018, 10:45:30 am
Back to AC... I don't think she did it because she wanted to loop a circuit for 12+ hours a day for 365 consecutive days... clearly she did it because she wanted that record. Why people want records? You can find a million reasons, but ultimately they all boil down to fame and notoriety, which on occasions can be turned into cash, on others less so.
What I said earlier is that the return on investment for that particular effort is pretty poor. A greater level of notoriety (and more money?) can be achieved without the need to invest so much time. This is a fact, I don't think you can realistically argue with that.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Jaded on 15 April, 2018, 11:14:10 am
This is a fact, I don't think you can realistically argue with that.

Maybe, just maybe, there are alternative facts...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: toontra on 15 April, 2018, 11:19:23 am
Back to AC... I don't think she did it because she wanted to loop a circuit for 12+ hours a day for 365 consecutive days... clearly she did it because she wanted that record. Why people want records? You can find a million reasons, but ultimately they all boil down to fame and notoriety, which on occasions can be turned into cash, on others less so.
What I said earlier is that the return on investment for that particular effort is pretty poor. A greater level of notoriety (and more money?) can be achieved without the need to invest so much time. This is a fact, I don't think you can realistically argue with that.

You don't have the faintest idea about Amanda's motivation, do you, so I really have no idea why you are persisting with this line of thought, which I for one find dismissive and slightly offensive.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: LMT on 15 April, 2018, 11:23:47 am
Back to AC... I don't think she did it because she wanted to loop a circuit for 12+ hours a day for 365 consecutive days... clearly she did it because she wanted that record. Why people want records? You can find a million reasons, but ultimately they all boil down to fame and notoriety, which on occasions can be turned into cash, on others less so.
What I said earlier is that the return on investment for that particular effort is pretty poor. A greater level of notoriety (and more money?) can be achieved without the need to invest so much time. This is a fact, I don't think you can realistically argue with that.

What utter bollox - seriously. Why the hell does there need to be something tangible in terms of a ROI.

Think Mastercard advert from back in the day...
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 16 April, 2018, 10:46:30 am
Why people want records? You can find a million reasons, but ultimately they all boil down to fame and notoriety, which on occasions can be turned into cash, on others less so.

Nope.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Polar Bear on 16 April, 2018, 11:07:06 am
"Why do you want to climb Mount Everest?"

"Because it is there."
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 16 April, 2018, 11:11:10 am
"Why do you want to climb Mount Everest?"

"Because it is there."

Sure,
Why do you want your climb to be officially recognised, so that everybody is aware? If there was no official or indeed unofficial record of who has climbed which mountain and by which route, how many would climb mountains?

I take for granted that the challenge is a very personal thing, but ultimately the desire to make the challenge "official" is down to the desire to see it recognised by others... public, peers... others

And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Polar Bear on 16 April, 2018, 11:12:57 am
You really don't understand.  The overwhelming majority of those who 'climb mountains' literally do it for the personal challenge and not for fame, glory nor wealth.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: whosatthewheel on 16 April, 2018, 11:16:05 am
You really don't understand.  The overwhelming majority of those who 'climb mountains' literally do it for the personal challenge and not for fame, glory nor wealth.
I do understand that people do things for passion.
With that in mind, when someone attempts to climb the Eiger in under 2 hours, he does so to set a new record and all of the above applies
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: teethgrinder on 16 April, 2018, 12:15:28 pm
Going for a record and having it recognised is as much about maintaining a record as it is about breaking it. Records are just that, recordings of events. If Kurt and Amanda kept their efforts quiet, everyone would think that I rode the 2nd greatest distance in a year. I'd rather be a more honest 4th than a dishonorable 2nd. I went for the record because I wanted to be the person who had cycled the most miles in a year. Any other gains are a bonus and I will capitalise and benefit from them as much as I can and that extends beyond financial gain. I think I'd be a fool not to.
Publicity isn't just for record attempts. Sports Relief is a good example.

Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Croft on 27 April, 2018, 11:57:13 pm
Great talk from Steve at Skelwith Bridge (https://www.ghyllside.co.uk/going-the-distance-an-evening-with-steve-abraham-friday-27th-2018.html#.WuOosC-ZPyn) this evening (great food and venue too). Some really interesting insights that he was able to bring with a bit of reflection as well as some moving moments. YACF gets plenty of mentions too. I'd recommend it if you can make it to one of his other planned talks on his record attempts (Clitheroe on Saturday (https://en-gb.facebook.com/events/862938303887033/) and a few others planned I believe).
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DCLane on 28 April, 2018, 08:07:18 am
I'm at Monday's in Sowerby Bridge - looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: hatler on 28 April, 2018, 10:31:49 am
I was at the Banff Mountain Film Festival event in Dorking last night. One of the films was about a chap whose aim was to skin up and ski down two and a half million vertical feet in a calendar year. That's 6850' every day, or 2090m.

He did it, but suffered from patches of over training, a fall resulting in a broken hand. A fascinating watch.

It would be fun to put him and Steve into the same room for a bit.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Croft on 28 April, 2018, 02:01:01 pm
...aim was to skin up and ski down two and a half million vertical feet

Many a plan has been hatched in that way.
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 01 May, 2018, 02:20:26 pm
I'm at Monday's in Sowerby Bridge - looking forward to it.

DC, were you sat on the back row?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: DCLane on 02 May, 2018, 12:15:18 am
I'm at Monday's in Sowerby Bridge - looking forward to it.

DC, were you sat on the back row?

Nope, front row and I asked the last question.

Where were you?
Title: Re: Another go .. TG??
Post by: Peter on 02 May, 2018, 03:53:31 am
Ah!  I was standing at the back (mostly) and asked the question about whether or not Steve was concerned that some of us were anxious about his health.