Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: U.N.Dulates on 23 March, 2015, 08:05:48 pm

Title: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 23 March, 2015, 08:05:48 pm
I doubt this event needs much of an introduction to many AUKs, but for those who aren't familiar... A bostin' (to use the local vernacular) trip from the Shire across blue remembered hills to the green deserts of mid Wales with stunning scenery and challenging hills including The Devil's Staircase, Tregaron mountain road, Elan & Ystwyth valleys.

http://www.audax-salop.talktalk.net/elenydd (http://www.audax-salop.talktalk.net/elenydd)

2015 route sheets and GPS files are now available on the website. No changes to the route but for this year the checkpoint at the Devil's Staircase has moved indoors to the shelter of Abergwesyn village hall.  With Sat 11th April being HAM'R day all donations from this checkpoint will be going towards the One Year Time Trial.

All the other controls remain unchanged - the smell of aviation fuel with your second breakfast at Shobdon, Welsh cawl at Tregaron Bowls club, The Strand at Rhayader and the Last Homely House of the Old Wheelwright's all await you to help fuel you over the Welsh hills.

With just under 3 weeks to go we're up to 127 entries, but there's still room at the inn on both start times for anyone who hasn't yet entered
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: rabbit on 23 March, 2015, 08:54:32 pm
Ooh, must admit, I'm glad to hear the checkpoint has moved from the bottom of the staircase.  :thumbsup:

So looking forward to this one!  :)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 23 March, 2015, 09:02:24 pm
and hopefully weather will be like this and the outstanding Elan Valley  ;D ;D ;D

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5519/12034260003_ff6c0ebb94_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/jkqJer)elan valley (2) (https://flic.kr/p/jkqJer) by jamesld8 (https://www.flickr.com/people/55935603@N05/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 23 March, 2015, 09:07:05 pm
Um, well there'll be weather anyway, that's guaranteed.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vorsprung on 24 March, 2015, 08:23:05 pm
Quote from: jamesld8 on 23 March, 2015, 09:02:24 pm
and hopefully weather will be like this and the outstanding Elan Valley  ;D ;D ;D

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5519/12034260003_ff6c0ebb94_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/jkqJer)elan valley (2) (https://flic.kr/p/jkqJer) by jamesld8 (https://www.flickr.com/people/55935603@N05/), on Flickr

That's a great photo.  I've done the Elenydd and it's predecessor the Elenith about 7 or 8 times and once the weather was like that
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 24 March, 2015, 09:16:42 pm
Thanks ! and surprisingly above was taken in mid January 2014, BUT IMO it even looks glorious in the wet with intertwining road and river

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5504/12000638355_8a0eebaba6_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/jhspFR)elan valley sml (https://flic.kr/p/jhspFR) by jamesld8 (https://www.flickr.com/people/55935603@N05/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vorsprung on 28 March, 2015, 06:35:53 pm
Any opinion on if the pub in Upton Magma is going to be open Friday night before the event?  It's been a bit hit and miss in recent years and I'm coming straight from work.  So if it is shut I will make other feeding arrangements
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 28 March, 2015, 07:39:46 pm
Definitely open these days. Tends to be popular on Friday & Saturday evenings so probably best reserving a table for food.

http://www.thehaughmond.co.uk/ (http://www.thehaughmond.co.uk/)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: JamesBradbury on 29 March, 2015, 08:28:16 pm
Here's a whole load of photos from last year (http://thinks.jamesbradbury.co.uk/yr-elenydd/). Shame I can't make it this time.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vistaed on 30 March, 2015, 09:17:18 pm
Looking forward to spending a night in the tent beforehand and not riding on my single speed montain bike this time round. Defiantly looking forward to some Welsh weather.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 31 March, 2015, 10:34:32 am
Quote from: vistaed on 30 March, 2015, 09:17:18 pm
Looking forward to spending a night in the tent beforehand and not riding on my single speed montain bike this time round. Defiantly looking forward to some Welsh weather.

will you be Shanding on the Yellow Peril  ;)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Aunt Maud on 02 April, 2015, 07:24:36 am
Slightly OT, but is there anyone near or in Rutland that can pick up a bike box from loadsabikes and drop it off at the start ?
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: oliveriles on 05 April, 2015, 02:28:00 pm
Looking forwArd to this one, let's hope the sun shines :)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Hot Flatus on 05 April, 2015, 02:44:23 pm
It will. And it will be a great day out  :thumbsup:

I'm not riding, but have ridden the previous incarnation about 4 times, the last of which (2010?) was one of the best days on a bike I've had
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Von Broad on 05 April, 2015, 02:53:44 pm
Quote from: Flaatuus on 05 April, 2015, 02:44:23 pm
have ridden the previous incarnation about 4 times

Same here, but being a full valve rider, I must admit to be genuinely concerned about whether this might be one climb too many for me now. When I entered I was feeling bullish, but there's a reality to all these things.
Only one way to find out of course, but 19.20hr for the Dean last week and 17.45hr for yesterday's 3 Down, I might have good reasons to be concerned  :)
We'll see how the week pans out.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vorsprung on 05 April, 2015, 03:25:53 pm
My practice session this weekend went ok.  I managed 200km of IanH's "Valley of the Rocks".  I took 13 hours to get round but I did make it.  I think this is one of my slowest ever 200km.  Elenith at the same rate would take 19h 15m

Update: I found last years card for VoR and it also took me 13 hours then :D  So another year on and I'm no worse...
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 06 April, 2015, 11:31:51 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 05 April, 2015, 03:25:53 pm
My practice session this weekend went ok.  I managed 200km of IanH's "Valley of the Rocks".  I took 13 hours to get round but I did make it.  I think this is one of my slowest ever 200km.  Elenith at the same rate would take 19h 15m

45 minutes in hand then. Certainly won't be the lanterne rouge at that.

Route check done. Absolutely nothing to report. The tandem made it up all the climbs.

Loggers have been busy since last year - the whole hillside has been cleared on the Devils Staircase. So now you get to contemplate the full horror of it as you approach.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: bikey-mikey on 06 April, 2015, 11:43:25 am
Quote from: U.N.Dulates on 06 April, 2015, 11:31:51 am
Loggers have been busy since last year - the whole hillside has been cleared on the Devils Staircase. So now you get to contemplate the full horror of it as you approach.

It also means that if you fall off, it's ages before you stop rolling.....
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Blade on 06 April, 2015, 01:08:52 pm
Quote from: U.N.Dulates on 06 April, 2015, 11:31:51 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 05 April, 2015, 03:25:53 pm
My practice session this weekend went ok.  I managed 200km of IanH's "Valley of the Rocks".  I took 13 hours to get round but I did make it.  I think this is one of my slowest ever 200km.  Elenith at the same rate would take 19h 15m

45 minutes in hand then. Certainly won't be the lanterne rouge at that.

To 'win' Lantern Rouge in this event, you usually need to arrive at the finish no earlier than 15 minutes before the control closes.

DAHIKT  :-[
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: simonp on 06 April, 2015, 01:50:25 pm
16h50 on the dean and an arrow just done says I'll be ok. Of course riding fixed will be a bastard on some sections.

Mr Organiser, is there a fridge at the hall and can I put my rice cakes in it? If not can I plug in my electric cool box somewhere?
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 06 April, 2015, 04:10:01 pm
Quote from: simonp on 06 April, 2015, 01:50:25 pm
Mr Organiser, is there a fridge at the hall and can I put my rice cakes in it?

Yep, no problem.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: veloboy on 06 April, 2015, 06:31:21 pm
Quote from: U.N.Dulates on 06 April, 2015, 04:10:01 pm
Quote from: simonp on 06 April, 2015, 01:50:25 pm
Mr Organiser, is there a fridge at the hall and can I put my rice cakes in it?

Yep, no problem.

I have used said fridge to store a selection of fine ales for consumption at the finish  ;D
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: αdαmsκι on 06 April, 2015, 07:05:04 pm
Quote from: veloboy on 06 April, 2015, 06:31:21 pm
I have used said fridge to store a selection of fine ales for consumption at the finish  ;D

Now why does that no surprise me?
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: veloboy on 06 April, 2015, 07:27:44 pm

Now why does that no surprise me?
[/quote]

At least the local pub is back open again - I do remember finishing John's 400 starting at 06:00 and making it back in time for last orders  ;D
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vorsprung on 06 April, 2015, 07:43:40 pm
Quote from: Blade on 06 April, 2015, 01:08:52 pm
Quote from: U.N.Dulates on 06 April, 2015, 11:31:51 am
Quote from: vorsprung on 05 April, 2015, 03:25:53 pm
My practice session this weekend went ok.  I managed 200km of IanH's "Valley of the Rocks".  I took 13 hours to get round but I did make it.  I think this is one of my slowest ever 200km.  Elenith at the same rate would take 19h 15m

45 minutes in hand then. Certainly won't be the lanterne rouge at that.

To 'win' Lantern Rouge in this event, you usually need to arrive at the finish no earlier than 15 minutes before the control closes.

DAHIKT  :-[

On the old Elenith one time I finished at 10pm with a 7am start.  I think that is unlikely to happen this year :)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 06 April, 2015, 07:53:07 pm
Quote from: veloboy on 06 April, 2015, 07:27:44 pm

Now why does that no surprise me?

At least the local pub is back open again - I do remember finishing John's 400 starting at 06:00 and making it back in time for last orders  ;D
[/quote]

I would be quite pleased make it back for last orders from my 07:00 start time---managed last year but that was 06:00 start..
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: mds101 on 08 April, 2015, 12:51:03 pm
Quote from: rabbit on 23 March, 2015, 08:54:32 pm
So looking forward to this one!  :)

Me too, although a little nervous about the climbing for some of it I think I should be OK.

Weather is looking OK as well, cooler and a bit windier again but OK.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 08 April, 2015, 03:14:34 pm
Quote from: mds101 on 08 April, 2015, 12:51:03 pm
Quote from: rabbit on 23 March, 2015, 08:54:32 pm
So looking forward to this one!  :)

Me too, although a little nervous about the climbing for some of it I think I should be OK.

Weather is looking OK as well, cooler and a bit windier again but OK.

you`ll be fine  ;D

As for weather yes cooler but each day forecast is steadily improving for Saturday with more sunny stuff and less windy stuff  :thumbsup: So far locally, Radnor Valley, this week weather has been consistently better than forecast too---high pressure seems to be continuing to be dominant influence>>> lots sun, warm and swallows too  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: L CC on 09 April, 2015, 01:16:53 pm
After our dismal 'performance' on The Dean we've been wavering about travelling over.
As things stand right now, Mr Smith might have to work, the tandem is covered in Wonderfull Wessex Smeg- apart from the rear wheel which is being rebuilt following the 3-spokes-breaking on said Wonderfull ride. Mr Smith has a cough, I'm not sleeping well and we're each about 5kg heavier and 1000km short of riding on last year.

What could possibly go wrong?

Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vorsprung on 09 April, 2015, 02:10:43 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 April, 2015, 01:16:53 pm
After our dismal 'performance' on The Dean we've been wavering about travelling over.
As things stand right now, Mr Smith might have to work, the tandem is covered in Wonderfull Wessex Smeg- apart from the rear wheel which is being rebuilt following the 3-spokes-breaking on said Wonderfull ride. Mr Smith has a cough, I'm not sleeping well and we're each about 5kg heavier and 1000km short of riding on last year.

What could possibly go wrong?

The downhill into Tregaron is super marvellous
The bowls club is the most splendid control
The downhill from the Roman fort to Rhydader is fast
There should be a tailwind home
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 09 April, 2015, 02:49:07 pm
+1 to all that. And the weather's going to be fab. What better way to lift your soul than riding those Welsh mountain roads.

It'll be bostin'
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: simonp on 09 April, 2015, 03:23:12 pm
I’ve got a good case of DOMS going on - should be ok by Saturday, I hope. Might do a shoulders session at the gym tonight, to ensure that I can start the ride with at least something sore.

I’m going to try to ride all the way to Rhayader before I need to stop for food. This is the same distance as to Malmesbury on The Dean. So I should be able to manage it. If I can, it could be my fastest Elenith/Elenydd.

I’ve diagnosed the failed front light from The Dean (was actually a short in the rear cable due to rubbing against the tyre). I’ve also replaced the duff Edelux II i got from SJSC (rear light connector wasn’t usable due to sealant around its base). So this evening I should be fitting that. And an B&M Ixon IQ Premium should be waiting for me at work as a new back-up light, as my brand new Philips light let in water on the Arrow.

Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Blade on 09 April, 2015, 03:48:15 pm
Quote from: mds101 on 08 April, 2015, 12:51:03 pm
Quote from: rabbit on 23 March, 2015, 08:54:32 pm
So looking forward to this one!  :)

Me too, although a little nervous about the climbing for some of it I think I should be OK.


You'll be O.K. with the climbing.
When I first rode this event, more than 20 years ago, I only walked the Devils Staircase climb.
Nowadays, I walk up five climbs  :-[
Still manage to finish JUST within the time limit though.
So remember.....If you're in front of me, then you're bound to finish within the time limits.

IIRC this will be my 21st time on this event.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 09 April, 2015, 07:10:38 pm
Quote from: U.N.Dulates on 09 April, 2015, 02:49:07 pm
+1 to all that. And the weather's going to be fab. What better way to lift your soul than riding those Welsh mountain roads.

It'll be bostin'

Went over The Warden Climb this pm---pure dust  ;D---so even though official route bypasses it due to potential mud issues it is in fully rideable condition and views from it are superb :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: mds101 on 09 April, 2015, 07:49:47 pm
Quote from: fboab on 09 April, 2015, 01:16:53 pm
........What could possibly go wrong?

Nothing, at least nothing you couldn't sort en route, probably.
 
Best wishes to Mr Smith, hope the cough gets better.

I'm right up for this one now. Rode the Tcr on the commute after some fettling last night and it's feeling great.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: simonp on 09 April, 2015, 09:59:18 pm
Looks like I'll be starting this one with DOMS in my shoulders.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: L CC on 10 April, 2015, 12:03:38 pm
Wanted: tandem pilot, 5'10-6'1.

For bike riding purposes 11/04. Tandem provided. No benefits offered. Must be immune to shrieks of fear on descents and deaf to complaining of tiredness/ hotfoot/ arse discomfort. Must be able to compensate for fat out-of-shape stoker. Cheerful conversation from stoker unlikely. Ability to understand that (sometimes) left is actually right, and vice versa, is a bonus. No meals provided. No Farting permitted.

In the first instance apply to C Smith Esq. (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=pm;sa=send;u=92) for tandem release.

(Mr Smith will be stuck in the code mines all weekend.  :'()
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 10 April, 2015, 12:10:37 pm
Sorry, I fail on the no farting requirement, along with several others.

On the other hand, I will be on a tandem on Sunday, after riding a different 300 on Saturday.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: tonyh on 10 April, 2015, 12:11:26 pm
Sadly, I'm unable to join the queue of eager applicants.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Chris S on 10 April, 2015, 01:37:20 pm
The actual rule pertaining to the pilot is "No anal events permitted. Of any nature."
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: mds101 on 12 April, 2015, 01:31:19 am
Stunning ride with incredible scenery, happy tohave walked a couple of the steep bits but it really doesn'twaste that much time and I got to look after scenery instead of looking after Road and think about how.much longevity goes on for.

Really impressed.with the way John and helpers organise this, incredible value for money. Really thanks times a million or so.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: mds101 on 12 April, 2015, 01:32:43 am
My auto text is going mental hopefully that makes sense:)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Philip Whiteman on 12 April, 2015, 08:28:23 am
Having blown up Abergleswyn, Rabbit persuaded me to continue.  Sadly it was not to be.  Following two punctures, I continued to the Gamallt before realising it really was too much.  On my return, I hit a stone and suffered a side wall blow out.  A boot patch sorted that problem out.  To makes things doubly worse, my pump disintegrated into little bits.  Shortly afterwards, I saw JH lugging himself up towards the pass and he was complaining about exhaustion too!

This is the second time I have DNF'd on this event  :'(

Saying that, thanks to John and his team for all his hard work.   For the riders that successfully completed the route, it must have been a storming return home.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Tull924 on 12 April, 2015, 08:53:22 am
Awesome day out. Managed to ride up all the hills, glad I put a 34/28 on. Some stunning scenery, truly worthy of it's classic status. Headwind was horrendous however. Got back to Upton Magna just after 10pm absolutely wasted (06:00 start).

Not currently planning on riding this ever again now I have done it, but who knows, the memory quickly fades and leaves you with mainly good memories. Still can't believe it took 2 hrs to ride a 24km section, or that a 07:00 starter got to the staircase before me, awesome.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: veloboy on 12 April, 2015, 09:53:57 am
What a great day out!! The rains at the 06:00 start was a bit of a downer, but we knew it would clear by mid morning, and it certainly did 40min before Shobdon. That headwind was fierce - damn hard climbing the staircase into that, even on a 34 x 30!
The ladies to the bowling club were fab!
Best part was getting the following wind and being blown across the Elan Valley at 63kph hardly pedalling at all!
Made the mistake of having the 'beef stew' at the penultimate Wheelwrights control - it just didn't agree with me - in fact, it was just plain awful  :sick: (no offence, really).
Happy to have made it back in daylight and have made the last train back to London  ;D
A huge thanks to John and all of the controllers for putting on such a fantastic event!
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: rabbit on 12 April, 2015, 10:23:08 am
Really incredibly tough day on the bike for me yesterday. Under par, lacking quality sleep, lacking ballast to cope with the brute of a headwind out and struggling to make 20 kph on the flat after Shobdon (!!), very homesick the night before.

But, despite all this, made it round, and found some form once the climbing proper started. Grateful to have nailed the Tregaron mountain road with a ferocious headwind blasting down the climbs, and even more grateful to be blown back along the Rhayader mountain road with the sun on my back. Speeds increased by 50% and met friends at controls and as they passed me again on the road. Despite several dropped chain incidents was making good rhythm until a full scale bonk 5 km from the penultimate control. Delirium and sudden non working of legs meant a tough few kms but 10 mins later good food (lovely veggie stew and rhubarb crumble) and a mug of tea had me back on the road for the final skirt of the stunning Stiperstones and Long Mynd lit up beautifully by the evening sunlight. Good company from a guy (sorry didn't catch your name!) with the red n black jacket back to arrive over the last few flat miles. Got in at 8:50 pm which was earlier than I was expecting after the rough morning's work.

Tough days are what make us harder, right?

Philip I am dumbfounded that you made it up the Staircase only to turn round and climb back over, that's audacious enough in itself.  You didn't seem in a good place anyway and I figured you'd bail once you got that puncture so am surprised and slightly in awe that you fixed it and continued, albeit just over the toughest bit of the entire ride, and then back again!  :o

Thanks to John, Linda, Joolz and all the other amazing volunteers and controls who made the stops a pleasure and provided great food and drinks.  The UNDulates events are just amazingly organised, even down to having the control points marked on the GPX file  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Bairdy on 12 April, 2015, 11:56:11 am
Quote from: rabbit on 12 April, 2015, 10:23:08 am


Tough days are what make us harder, right?


I'm about as hard as I'll ever be, so can I have some easier days please?  ;D
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 April, 2015, 12:05:09 pm
I'm a big fan of Bairdy's approach.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: tubbycyclist on 12 April, 2015, 12:32:52 pm
An epic day out on the bike - the route is fantastic, along with the controls. It was a tough headwind going out but at least there was respite on the return. As a potential member of the lantern rouge club, the temps dropped a lot once night fell and it was a chilly return to the arrivee but finished with some time in hand, which is about as good it gets for me.


Thanks to all involved in organising.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: simonp on 12 April, 2015, 01:03:18 pm
Hardest day on the bike for a while. I hadn’t checked the forecast the day before so was surprised to be told it’d be raining for the first few hours. It was light drizzle until just before start time at which point the rain picked up. I rapidly got dropped by nearly everyone as I was trying to pace myself. The rain didn’t last too long but it remained cold with a strong head wind. Keeping my HR down in such conditions meant a slow pace even before it got hilly. I had to stop to collect my water bottle on a descent as I hit some broken surface which caused it to shake free. That bottle got put into the seat tube cage as it was covered in roadside mud. When I got to Shobdon there wasn’t much of a queue to order food - but I had a policy of bouncing controls until 200km. So I just got my stamp and washed mud off the bottle.

The run to the village hall at Abergwesn continued with the theme of me riding slowly and people who’d stopped at Shobdon coming past me. By Abergwesn most of the field had controlled and quite a few of the 7am starts. I just had a coffee here but it still ended up as a 20 minute break.

The trees being down on the Devil’s Staircase meant for a great view as I walked up it. I had a false start as it was still too steep when I tried to resume. I was passed by the Elliptigo as it made its way up the climb. I had to also walk the next climb from the first hairpin, but the third one I managed to bully my way up. However any idea of my heart rate being in the moderate zone was out the window at this point. The wind was a nuisance over the top.

At Tregaron I just had a coffee and an orange juice. I think it would have cost me only a little more time to eat, tbh, but I stuck to my plan. The run to Cwmystwyth was the final time I had to get off and walk, at the usual place. Once in the valley we had the tail wind we’d been expecting all day, and the climb was relatively easy. I’d had to de-layer somewhat at the end of my stroll, as the tail wind and uphill riding were making me hot. It only got up to about 12 Deg C all day - a contrast to the previous few days.

Arriving in Rhayader, I was really ready for some food. Bangers and mash went down really well. The first bite of sausage was like manna from heaven. This set me up well for the ride to the Wheelwrights control at 260k or so, but I was now being dropped to being under-geared rather than to be slow. I was passing people on climbs now, whilst remaining in my HR zone. On some descents my HR was over 150 at the bottom - above my target limit.

I loved the food at Wheelwrights, the stew was just what was needed along with crumble and custard. The final stage isn’t too hard, though the descent into Shrewsbury is a bit of a pain on fixed. I rolled in to the finish at about 11.45pm, so slower than last year. Food at the finish was great - I loved both the cottage pie and the carrot and coriander soup. Despite the noise in the control, I slept pretty well, only getting up once at around 4am for a trip to the loo, and waking up at 7am. I got breakfast in Telford on the way home, stopped again for coffee on the M5 and once more because my eyes were very tired.

Time for a bath…
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: oliveriles on 12 April, 2015, 01:03:38 pm
A cough and cold from hell meant I was not looking forward to this ride. The wet and wind did not improve my mood.  But I battled through the first half and coasted back.  Got back at 8.15pm. Unhappy with my personal performance but at least I know I can battle through the hard times and take 5 AAA points which gets me within a stones throw of 100 for the season.

Well organised event with great control points and views- love Wales :)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: mikek on 12 April, 2015, 01:43:24 pm
It's been many years since I went under 14 hours for the Elenith/Elenydd but just about managed it yesterday. This was certainly not down to road speed though as I only managed a shade over 15mph moving average thanks to the headwinds out but was rather due to spending just 20 minutes at a time at each of the controls. As usual all controls were bang on the money and the Abergwesyn control was a much better facility than Builth. Starting at 7 meant less bother from the early rain although I rode alone from the A49 onwards as the road train was going faster than I thought sensible given the winds and hills to come. I wonder if they were being pulled along by the guy that finished in an incredible 12.5 hours?

Well done to simonp who looked chipper at Abergwesyn and was the only rider that I noticed on fixed this year. Amazing self-discipline not to eat for 200k into such winds and hills. Certainly nothing I could have managed.

I've been suffering for many years with day after nausea and headaches. I'd always assumed that I'd been dehydrated but after reading of the symptoms of overhydration I wondered if this was my problem. Yesterday I decided to drink much less than normal and apart from tea and a hot chocolate I only drank about 1.75L of water. Most noticeably I had no need for roadside toilet visits and my appetite was normal for once on the ride itself. Today I'm especially ravenous which hasn't been the case for years. It seems that I might finally be moving in the right direction and wondered how my drinking compared with others on the ride given that it wasn't generally so hot for sweating to be a concern.

I'd dearly liked to have had another portion of that lovely vegetable chilli at the finish, Linda, but I had (as too often) to dash to Wellington to get the last train home. Many thanks to John, Linda, Joolz and other helpers along the way and to all at those brilliant controls. One of the highlights of the year as always.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: simonp on 12 April, 2015, 01:55:36 pm
Quote from: mikek on 12 April, 2015, 01:43:24 pm
Well done to simonp who looked chipper at Abergwesyn and was the only rider that I noticed on fixed this year. Amazing self-discipline not to eat for 200k into such winds and hills. Certainly nothing I could have managed.

Not quite! I was carrying home made rice cakes which I munched as I went. They weigh 1.75kg so I was keen to get through them!
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Blade on 12 April, 2015, 02:05:00 pm
Well...it was certainly an 'interesting' ride.
My riding companion Stuart and I struggled against the strong headwind for the first 90 miles. Did anybody else notice a headwind?
Due to the headwind, we struggled to build any sort of time buffer at all. Leaving Abergwesn, we had 20 minutes in hand.
Reaching Tregaron, we didn't seem to have anything left in our legs and still seemed to be pushing a headwind as we left the control.
At the top of the Cwmystwyth climb we came to the conclusion that we weren't going to arrive at Rhyader within the time limit, so a discussion of what we were going to do was held.
We had two options.
1 Carry on as fast as we were able to and although our ride wouldn't be ratified, we'd done all we could.
2 Turn it into a social ride, with extra rests and no time pressures. Just getting to the finish eventually.
We chose option 2
Packing was never considered.

At Rhyader, well out of time, we telephoned John Hamilton and told him of our plans and told him 'not to wait up for us at the finish'.
Over a latte and pasties, we formulated our plans for the ride back.
We knew that Little Brampton would be closed by the time we arrived there, so decided not to visit and formulated an alternative, less complicated, route back which would hopefully include places with 24 hour garages selling food and drink.
Stopped at the garage at Cross Gates and had conversations with customers enquiring about all the cyclist they'd seen that evening.
Suffered all the way to Knighton and failed to find an open garage  :'( Started to get a bit chilly. Put all our warm clothing on.
Near Bucknell, we detoured from the 'official' route and went on to Craven Arms. By this time it was 'DAMNED COLD'
Garage at Craven Arms was closed  :(
Rode up the A49 to Church Stretton. Garage was open  :thumbsup: Girl in the kiosk said, "we don't sell coffee at night"  :'(
We were shivering with cold at this point.
Pressed on to the finish, about 2 hours out of time. Hall was in darkness.
We'd ridden 193 miles.
Loaded the bikes into the car and drove home with the heater on full blast.
Breakfast consisted of cheese on toast and whiskey  :thumbsup:

Great event, as always. In spite of not finishing within the time limits we still had a good day out on the bikes and it was certainly character building.
Hopefully no headwind next year.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 12 April, 2015, 03:02:26 pm
Very tough day---and slowest of my 3 Elenydd rides, taking shade under 15 hours riding time cf 13.5 last year and got back at 12:30 am from a 7 am start. So nearly two and half hours at controls.....need to sort that out and cut back `controlling / eating` times

Wind was very difficult all way from Shobdon to Tregaron and spent far too long at control 1--home for breakfast-- than I should have done so was out on my own for that whole stretch. But very little rain and plenty sunshine; crystal clear air gave wonderful views down to Carmarthen fans from the Tregaron Mtn road.

Control @ Abergweswyn really good, nice  welcome and plenty food even at tail end of field. Stopped briefly at Tregaron reached at 16:00 hr, looked enviously at the Scotches the controllers were imbibing, avoided and settled for a pint shandy and jkt spud instead,  and then fortunately had advantage of tailwind  from then on, but although easier going average speed didn`t pick up that much.

From Rhayader onwards just decided to take it steady being now an hour behind planned schedule; Wheelwrights stop seemed a long time coming. Temperature by then was dropping quickly and near Ratlinghope Garmin recorded 2c, full winter gear weather. Then a great long descent down thro` Longnor and back  ;D

Thanks John and Linda for another great event and your hard work getting it all together
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Aunt Maud on 12 April, 2015, 03:32:44 pm
Well that was a fun filled long weekend of Welsh touring.

Up and over the staircase both ways was fun and it was nice to see a bit of scenery and some old/ragged faces.


Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Andydauddwr on 12 April, 2015, 03:35:22 pm
Quote from: Blade on 12 April, 2015, 02:05:00 pm
Well...it was certainly an 'interesting' ride....
That's the spirit of Audax right there - well done!

I last rode the Elenith on the front of a tandem with Jasmine back in '11.  It had been long enough to forget how much 'fun' all of that climbing provides and that's not factoring for John's added value since taking over the ride.  That plus the fact that I wanted an interesting 300 qualifier for PBP and where better to spend the weekend...

The rain was a bit character building to start with and it was a long unrelenting slog into the wind all of the way to Tregaron.  Call me old fashioned, but I actually like to stop and eat at controls although aimed for no more than 20 mins in each and more or less stuck to that.  I was out-geared on the staircase so had to walk most of it, but rode up everything else.  I had some pretty serious back ache by Tregs, but gather others were similar.  The run back was a lot more pleasant with a good push from the wind plus climbs that I regularly train on.  It was another one of those rides where my pace didn't quite suit anybody else, so I spent most of the riding time alone.

The final leg dragged on a bit and the decent wasn't worth the climbing really trying to find a line between grit in the road centre and potholes nearside.  Still that plus a regular stream of twunts driving past kept me awake to the end.  I got in a little after 10 which I was happy enough with.

I couldn't face another night in the hall due to my excellent light sleeping skills, so bedded down in the car until first light and then made my way home on nice empty roads.

Many thanks to John, Linda, Joolz, Edwin, Gareth and team in Tregaron and all of the other helpers for making it happen!

I wanted to do something a little harder than usual and I think this met the bill.

Now just need to recover for a rather more sedate 400 next weekend in the form of the Blinder.

Andy
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: crazy diamond on 12 April, 2015, 06:24:16 pm
Absolutely wonderful day out.  Magnificent scenery, and all those hills.  Blue skies and sunshine, well after 8am anyway. I enjoyed every single moment, but seeing the Red Kites above the mountain road was a bit special.  I rode the second half with Ben Ryle, and both of us were first timers at 300 km, albeit at very different ends of the age scale.  I've left it a bit late, at 3 months short of my 65th birthday, but was very touched by people congratulating me at the finish.  Thanks.  And thanks also to John Hamilton and all his team for their efforts.  Very much appreciated.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: mattc on 12 April, 2015, 07:13:06 pm
Quote from: simonp on 12 April, 2015, 01:55:36 pm
Quote from: mikek on 12 April, 2015, 01:43:24 pm
Well done to simonp who looked chipper at Abergwesyn and was the only rider that I noticed on fixed this year. Amazing self-discipline not to eat for 200k into such winds and hills. Certainly nothing I could have managed.

Not quite! I was carrying home made rice cakes which I munched as I went. They weigh 1.75kg so I was keen to get through them!
Whatever - have a pat-on-the-back from me for doing A Long Ride without:
- going off too fast, OR
- bonking at least once.

With practice I think you could get quite good at this game.  :-*
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vistaed on 12 April, 2015, 07:20:25 pm
Not the worst ever Audax for me, but that was only because of some excellent highlights. I was (still am) getting over flu, my sleeping mat deflated rapidly during the night resulting in a terrible night sleep, actually sleep is not something I did much of, and I'd forgotten to pack to waterproff, overshoes, sealskins or anything that would help to keep any part of me dry. I'd not even started to ride yet. As expected, I lacked power, my throat got worse as the day went on sucking in the cold headwind, swolllowing and talking became painful. To be honest, I would probably have called it a day at Shobdon if it had not been for my long term riding partner. He moved to Bristol early last year so we don't get to ride much these days and despite an 80 mile spin last weekend hadn't ridden more than 40 miles since last July. I wasn't going to quit and mess up his ride. But enougth of the moaning, the rain eased off soon enough and the sun came out leaving beautiful valleys. I do love seeing such a defined trailing edge of a front disappear away from me. Highlights of the ride were - getting out on a ride with my friend - getting from Rhayder to Little Brampton in 2 hours (I found my legs) - hitting 46 mph on two occasions - and as always the excellence event organisation. Many thanks.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Von Broad on 12 April, 2015, 07:43:40 pm

Well....there are longer rides and I'm sure there are harder rides on the AUK calender, but I was thinking yesterday as I was hauling my way round the Elenydd, that this must surely be serious ride by anybody's standards.

Must admit, I felt very disconnected from everybody and everything in the hall prior to setting off, I was really quite
nervous about whether I could get round again, particularly on the recumbent I was riding and the newly revised Undulates version of the event [new to me that is]. I was always on the time limit in Kidderminster, so this was going to push that a bit more. And then, just prior to setting off, the rain started. Great.

Made my usual stop at the bakers in Bullith Wells for a pie and savoury slice.

Chain snapped on the pass out to Tregaron. We are empowered when we have chain-links. Never go anywhere, like this, without them.

It was well windy, but the sun shone, and when it does it lights up the whole landscape, and there's such beauty out there, it's always a delight to see.

Good to see the chippie's still open for business in Rhayder. I always drop in there.
After Rhayder, I felt really quite vulnerable in those lanes after turning off the A44. Blimey, It's dark and quiet out
there isn't it? Like..... where are the villages? Where are the houses? You'd expect to be passing through some kind of habitation, but there's not a lot out there, that's for sure. This ain't the place I want a mechanical! As Andy was saying that descent in Shrewsbury takes plenty of concentration in the dark, especially after the tiredness that is 280km. I must have got through a set of disc pads controlling the descent speed.

A small somewhat self-interested, but quite pleasing stat for me was to see that my first Elenith on recumbent in 2007 [glorious weather] was 19.50hr, and yesterday was 19.30hr. Eight years older and still hanging in there, albeit by a thread, but still hanging in there.

Blade - your words speak clearly of the suffering. You were still in time at Tregaron, but it's such a problem when you know you've got to stop, you need to stop, but ideally, it would also be good to keep going too because time is ticking away.

Once your up against the time limit on a ride like that, it's so hard to claw anything back. And then it all starts to slip
away. But well done to both of you for making your way home. Strength in numbers too.

It's an absolute classic ride, and I've not regretted any of the six times I've ridden it, but it will always be a bit of a
brute that has be grappled with - right on the edge of what I'm capable of finishing.
That may be the last outing. [At some points in the ride it was going to be my last Audax ever....sometimes I think I'm getting close to that now]. Until the next time maybe. What a ride.

Many thanks to John and Linda [nice to see Joolz at the start], the team at Abergweswyn and everybody else who made it happen.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Von Broad on 12 April, 2015, 07:45:09 pm
Quote from: crazy diamond on 12 April, 2015, 06:24:16 pm
I've left it a bit late, at 3 months short of my 65th birthday, but was very touched by people congratulating me at the finish.

Hey, that's great.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: jamesld8 on 12 April, 2015, 07:52:52 pm
Quote from: crazy diamond on 12 April, 2015, 06:24:16 pm
Absolutely wonderful day out.  Magnificent scenery, and all those hills.  Blue skies and sunshine, well after 8am anyway. I enjoyed every single moment, but seeing the Red Kites above the mountain road was a bit special.  I rode the second half with Ben Ryle, and both of us were first timers at 300 km, albeit at very different ends of the age scale.  I've left it a bit late, at 3 months short of my 65th birthday, but was very touched by people congratulating me at the finish.  Thanks.  And thanks also to John Hamilton and all his team for their efforts.  Very much appreciated.

Well done Chris---glad you enjoyed it (and didn`t need a wake up call  ;) ) and sorry not catch up with you after event, just as I got in you were heading off to your VW. It`s a real classic event and the weather was brilliant, you got a superb day for your first 300 !
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: simonp on 12 April, 2015, 08:16:13 pm
John told me at the finish that he's thinking about putting on his hilly 300k next year. 6000m climbing - I might have to take gears to that one.

Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: vistaed on 12 April, 2015, 09:33:20 pm
Quote from: simonp on 12 April, 2015, 08:16:13 pm
John told me at the finish that he's thinking about putting on his hilly 300k next year. 6000m climbing - I might have to take gears to that one.
Sounds like fun
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Somnolent on 12 April, 2015, 09:39:38 pm
Nobody's mentioned the lambs.... innumerable numbers of small fluffy lambs, still that perfectly almost-white colour, and did I mention they were cute?

Although in the last group back last year we failed to achieve lanterne rouge.   Rectified that this year though.  Just 12 minutes to spare :facepalm: per the GPS.    Sorry to John & Linda for keeping them up so late at the end of a very long day, but fabulous event as always.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Aunt Maud on 13 April, 2015, 05:55:42 am
Yes, the sheep were lovely and fluffy. Nice to see someone else cutting their weekends rides on the fine side too.

Was that you doing the Blue Peter craft demonstration at the breakfast table ?
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Somnolent on 13 April, 2015, 09:10:46 am
No sticky-back plastic in sight !
but yes, I have been know to modify and fabricate various bits of kit  ;D
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: bikey-mikey on 13 April, 2015, 09:42:38 am
A fabulous day - OK I got a bit behind getting ready for the start, and as I left at 7 mins past 6, everyone had already b*ggered off....

When you're  light, like me, the headwind is a real bitch.. still I made good progress, bounced a few controls, and made my way through the field... Then came the Staircase... I've been up there at least ten times before, and never had to walk, however they've just cut down all the trees, and the wind was gusting from the northwest, unhindered by trees, and that first ramp goes northwest. I was going up just fine - full effort for sure, but getting there, and then a random gust of epic proportions just completely stopped me, like hitting a wall mid pedal, and I thought "shall I try to balance till it passes, or get off before I fall?".. as I'm useless at balancing I unclipped and ended up walking ten metres to the bend, where I was able to get back on again...

As the day wore on I had fun playing tortoise and hare with a few mini pelotons... they scream by you burning off their glycogen, then collapse at the next control to refuel while I sail on by... Then it happens again, and again.... Of course if there are five of them, riding tight on each other's wheels, then four are at a 20% advantage, and the one in front gains 10% (rough figures gleaned from endless Tour de France commentator drivel..) ..... I wonder if I'd have seen any of them more than once if they'd been riding solo??

I just had to have a sanity break and some of the speedy food at Tregaron, having nearly become a bug on a range rovers windscreen.  What gives him the right to drive round blind bends on a single track road at nearly 50 mph I wonder??? OK I was going nearly as fast, and thank heavens for my hydraulic discs.... :facepalm:

It was great to meet friends old and new, and the welcome back at Upton Magna was as good as ever.. Nice to see Joolz, and John n Linda's catering was 'above' scratch (meaning excellent)

Congrats to all the finishers, whether in time or not, and congrats to the org's team for a faultless event !!

Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: tonyh on 13 April, 2015, 01:55:15 pm
Quote from: bikey-mikey on 13 April, 2015, 09:42:38 am
....the bend, where I was able to get back on again

Seriously impressed!!

Thanks all for the excellent and varied accounts.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Ultradiscostu on 14 April, 2015, 04:16:48 pm
Short report of my Yr Elenydd ride here http://www.ultradiscostu.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/elliptigo-yr-elenydd-300k-audax-ride.html

don't take any offence about my comment that cyclists always moan about headwinds!  :o hehe
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Ultradiscostu on 14 April, 2015, 04:19:06 pm
And to the chap who I was discussing his new fancy OnePlus phone with at the last control - that one conversation has just cost me £290 today ;D thanks for that!  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 16 April, 2015, 08:58:46 am
Thanks everyone. I've managed to catch up with the paperwork (and sleep) now.

Provisional results are up on the AUK website - 6am start (http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=15-748) and 7am start (http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=15-749).
[EDIT 7am start link corrected]

Final combined stats - 144 entries, 114 starters and 107 successful finishers.

Entries for the 7am start were significantly lower than the 6am, and with a much higher DNS rate. So it didn't really achieve its target aim of spreading the field out before the first control, and there didn't seem to be any extra overall demand resulting from PBP year (everyone looking for an easier ride I reckon) and just meant it was 3am before I got to bed rather than 2. So it's unlikely that I'll repeat it.

A few notable mentions...

A new record for the 'new' Elenydd course with the first rider back in 12h25 :o (still got a way to go to beat the 'old' Elenith record of 11h33 tho'). Either we had more fast riders this year or the wind wasn't really that bad as 9 riders made it round in under 14 hours.

First trike completion (Dan Howard) and first recumbent (von Broad) on the new course.
2 ElliptiGO completions (ultradiscostu and Glyn Marston)
2 tandems (& a new tandem record from 321up)

Jessica Connor and rabbit joining the exclusive club of solo female riders (now up to 4)
Mrs PpPete joining the even more exclusive club of ladies who've ridden more than once

As always, massive thanks to all the controls and the volunteers who came out to help run them. The Elenydd wouldn't be the same without them. The new control venue at Abergwesyn seemed to be well received, definitely one to keep for the future.

My ride didn't go so well. A late call from Ed Hargraves offering to help rather than ride meant I got a late pass out to ride my own event for once. I did need to be back for midnight though to put the organisers hat back on for the late shift at the finish. A combination of general lardiness, still having the route check from the previous weekend in my legs meant I just didn't really get going. Organising work in the week before the event doesn't really make for stress free relaxing build up to a big ride. The wind from Shobdon then finished me off so it was nearly 4pm by the time I got to Tregaron and was playing yo-yo with vonBroad on his recumbent. The midnight finish wasn't going to happen so I bailed for the train back from Aberystwyth.

That's it from me for this year. After 12 years of organising culminating in last year's Mille Cymru it's time to take a break so I'm not running any other events in 2015. There is still Ed Hargraves Snowdon & Coast 400 (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=88097.0) and accompanying 4 Rivers (http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/15-156/) events at the end of May for anyone looking for another fix of Shropshire/Marches 'undulations', and I'll be back in 2016 for the 30th edition of the Elenith/Elenydd.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: swiss hat on 16 April, 2015, 09:42:00 am
Thank you John, Linda and all the team for the 2015 Elenydd. A great ride!
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: veloboy on 16 April, 2015, 10:05:58 am
+1 to that!! I'm already lloking forward to the 2016 edition!!  ;D
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: Pip on 16 April, 2015, 12:30:07 pm
Thank you John and all your team...I didn't ride this year, found an easier event  :). Your Elenydd is a brilliant and well organised ride.

12h and 25 mins is just an incredible time
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: rabbit on 16 April, 2015, 03:31:40 pm
Enjoy your well deserved break Mr UNDulates!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 17 April, 2015, 08:48:38 am
And finally...

Thank you all for your donations at Abergwesyn. We collected £103.50, which I've topped up from the event surplus to make a donation of £200 towards Steve Abraham's One Year Time Trial.

I've also got a collection of odd gloves/mitts found in the hall when I cleared up, plus a pair of overshoes found at Shobdon. If any of them are yours please get in touch so I can repatriate them.
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: 321up on 20 April, 2015, 06:46:16 am
The controls and food were excellent and we made full use of them.  We particularly appreciated overnight accommodation in the hall.  A very well organised event, many thanks to John, Linda and all their helpers.

Here's a few photos of the wonderful scenery...

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TOOjxTCsY8w/VTSOAg7g6uI/AAAAAAAAPh8/5fOsTMri4MQ/s800/DSC_3578.JPG)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NLDmJbnzqnw/VTSOATn0koI/AAAAAAAAPiE/qCHTI4HhUpk/s800/DSC_3583.JPG)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NxZ1WC6JyRE/VTSOAlF5MvI/AAAAAAAAPiA/pMWDBLMpXIE/s800/DSC_3586.JPG)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xwQZ7JaZp5M/VTSOBWYuKaI/AAAAAAAAPiI/sDq0sH5XrPc/s800/DSC_3591.JPG)
Title: Re: Yr Elenydd 300 - Sat 11th April
Post by: GraemeMcC on 20 April, 2015, 01:01:27 pm
As I said at the finish, I wasn't feeling in the mood to appreciate the lumpiness of the final sections after Rhayadar to the finish with leaden legs.
But payback has been granted and yesterday's 150km headwind slog back from Newtown to Poynton across the Plain was managed OK.
So, I can now offer my thanks for the hills and the training effect.  :thumbsup:
Thanks John.

Whether I'll be praising Mr Corless after next weekend, or not, will remain to be seen. I'm packing my ski-gloves though, as my fingertips are still all a-tingly after the Not-So-Delightful-Dales 200...