Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: teethgrinder on 22 January, 2016, 01:35:37 pm

Title: [HAMR] What now?
Post by: teethgrinder on 22 January, 2016, 01:35:37 pm
First of all, thanks for all of the help ad support I have had for the OYTT.
I appreciate the comments and thoughts that I haven't let anyone down, but the truth is, that I feel like I have. Us humans are daft like that, I guess.
I am very pleased that I have encouraged a lot of people with their cycling.

I have a lot to say about why it didn't work but won't go into all of that now because it would take a very long time.
The short answer that circumstances right from the start conspired against me. Add to that I was going into unknown territory and had nothing more to go on than Tommy Godwins' mileages, then it's no great surprise that not everything turned out as planned when plans were made on so little knowledge.

I think I have learned a lot, but there are still a lot of unasnswered questons. Still a lot to learn about the HAMR and I think it will be very many attempts over the course of decades before anyone even comes close to a good way of doing it the best way, let alone the best way possible.

My next move is to take time out to recover. No more riding, except for shopping trips and maybe the odd easy cafe ride to get me out of my home and in the fresh air.

I do feel bad about stopping. Very much how I felt after failing my first LEL. I still think I am capable, but just like on my first LEL, circumstances conspired against me.

I do feel like I gave it my best in the circumstance, but I never was at anywhere near my best, which again, I put mostly down to circumstances. I also think that I pushed it as far as possible without going too far. In my head I knew it was right for me to stop, but I was (and still am) unwilling to admit it to myself. I think this is inevitable in the mentality of anyone who would attempt something like this.
How can I give it my best when I'm not at my best nor can see how I can become my best without jeopordising the whole attempt?
My team and I tried everything to make it work. Hoppo and Idai explored every avenue to speed up my recovery to help me get faster, but after all is said and done, I never had enough speed to gain enough recovery time while meeting the mileages needed.
I may have only just been successful on the first attempt without the moped incident, but it is unlikely that I would have got the record by any significant margin. Though it must be said, that this is one of the many unknowns.

Lessons have been learnt and more questions have been opened, but I do have some ideas about their answers.

So, what now?

Rest and recover.

Then start riding my bike for fun. Some light touring, rides to cafes, and hopefully some camping trips etc. May even organise a few YACF jollies.

Then I intend to see about doing some proper training, possibly getting a coach, or at least some expert advice and guidance to get me up to speed and do some time trialling etc as well as other fun rides. Having worked hard over the years and spent little has meant that I no longer need full time employment and can live off my savings for a while, maybe doing some casual work at leisure.

But for now, I am going to concentrate on doing positive things to keep my head in a good place. Get my home in some kind of order. Get my bikes up to top working order. Do stuff to make my life feel good, rather than mope around feeling sorry for myself. Just because I'm not happy about stopping doesn't mean I need to make it worse. Makes more sense to get off my arse and actively make myself happy. Also do some stretches (I sure have lost a lot of flexibility!) take baths and generally do things to make me feel good.

My team haven't abandoned me either. I will keep in touch with them and try to help them with their cycling and anything else I can, just as they have helped and are continuing to help me.
In time I'll be getting medical assessments and making sure that I am in good health.

I expect that the question on a lot of people's mind is, "Will there be another attempt?"

The answer to that is that I don't know.
Of course, I am showing my hand a little with my talk of getting myself fit.
At present, I am undecided. My feeling is that I very much want to have another go. Everything is pretty much in place, lessons have been learnt and another start will be much easier, which means I could start in good fitness.

However, this is something that cannot be taken on lightly and at a whim. I am making no promise of another attempt. At present, I could well be thinking with my head not in the best place to make these kind of serious commitments.
So at present, I will take time out, get myself together and step away from it all. Take it one step at a time and see where I end up.
I will only make another attempt if I am 100% willing to make that kind of commitment and to do that I have to walk away, look at it from the outside and really want to do it again.

So from now on, it's just one step at a time and see where I end up.
I do have a lot of things to do in my "rest" time.
A cheap winter sun break seems very tempting and if I find myself in another country with new roads to explore, it would be against my nature to not have a bicycle at hand to do some exploring...
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: jsabine on 22 January, 2016, 01:41:26 pm
Steve, that's a thoughtful post. Thanks for sharing so much of what you're thinking at this point, and giving a sense of just how complex things are.

All the very best.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: delthebike on 22 January, 2016, 01:42:12 pm
Rest and recover Steve but do some riding too!  :thumbsup:

All the best.  :-*
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: The Seldom Killer on 22 January, 2016, 01:43:25 pm
Welcome back TG, you've been missed.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 22 January, 2016, 01:44:11 pm
Ty for your openness - and your courage. Courage in even attempting this, then courage to fight on against overwhelming odds. There's nothing you could have done to avoid being smashed up.

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Arry-R on 22 January, 2016, 01:44:16 pm
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us Steve and I have no doubt we shall support your next venture
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Karla on 22 January, 2016, 01:44:26 pm
It's good to have you back TG  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: clarion on 22 January, 2016, 01:46:50 pm
Hi TG.  Enjoy your cycling for a bit, and don't worry about making any more decisions just yet.

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Wowbagger on 22 January, 2016, 01:54:22 pm
Great to see you on here again, Steve.

If you fancy a potter out our way some time, it would be lovely to see you.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Polar Bear on 22 January, 2016, 01:54:47 pm
Far from letting anybody down you have inspired all of us lesser mortals by your example.

I'd recommend that you take time to adjust to not cycling all day every day and then slip back into your usual pre-OYTT routine.   Get out and enjoy your cycling as you did before you took on the OYTT.  Do a few audaxes maybe? 

If you fancy a few days with appreciative forumites and friends then there is the Clapham Bunkhouse trip next weekend (hostel beds still available) and the Long Itch Camping Weekend at the beginning of May.   There must be other events on too.    You will be very much the guest of honour. 
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hippy on 22 January, 2016, 01:57:29 pm
I know you'll be in a bit of a bad place mentally after deciding to stop the attempt but you really have done great things to inspire myself and a lot of others get out and push a bit further on their bikes.

It may ring a bit hollow at the moment but truly, well done Steve!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Jethro on 22 January, 2016, 01:59:36 pm
Please, please, please dont ever feel bad about stopping.  I am sure it was the right choice to make.  To carry on with 205+ miles every day would have been digging a hole for yourself.  Have a good rest and that will enable you to make good and sound decisions for the future.

Care to join me for a couple of weeks in Lanzarote next month?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Basil on 22 January, 2016, 02:00:38 pm
Hi Teethgrinder, its really good to have you back.  I kinda missed you while you were away busy being Steve Abraham.  (Though he's a nice guy too)
As you say, there's plenty of time to think about the future, so for a while just do whatever it is you feel like doing when you wake up every morning .
I have to say that a holiday in the sun sounds a good idea. 

Hmm, I wonder what the distance record for a pedelo is?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: zigzag on 22 January, 2016, 02:00:48 pm
A cheap winter sun break seems very tempting and if I find myself in another country with new roads to explore, it would be against my nature to not have a bicycle at hand to do some exploring...

if you happen to go to mallorca in 3wks time (on 13-22 feb), there's free accommodation
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Sergeant Pluck on 22 January, 2016, 02:00:51 pm
Great to read some of your preliminary thoughts, TG.

But for now, I am going to concentrate on doing positive things to keep my head in a good place.

Sounds like a good plan.

Loss of flexibility? I reckon Pilates has a lot to offer.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Jack_P on 22 January, 2016, 02:14:01 pm
I remember you commenting you'd like to ride the Transcontinental race one day
I'm pretty sure the organisers would welcome you with open arms.
Gives you some focus while you rest and recover.

Then an easy 200 miles a day for Teethgrinder in August would see you cruising there, YACF cheering you on every step.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ham on 22 January, 2016, 02:25:02 pm
Welcome back

A cheap winter sun break seems very tempting and if I find myself in another country with new roads to explore, it would be against my nature to not have a bicycle at hand to do some exploring...

if you happen to go to mallorca in 3wks time (on 13-22 feb), there's free accommodation

Not forgetting that Mollorca is probably one of the very easiest places to hire decent bikes (https://www.google.co.uk/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#safe=off&q=mallorca%20bike%20hire)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Canardly on 22 January, 2016, 02:28:22 pm
A break in the sun sounds a good idea Steve. Welcome back.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: zigzag on 22 January, 2016, 02:31:09 pm
Not forgetting that Mollorca is probably one of the very easiest places to hire decent bikes (https://www.google.co.uk/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#safe=off&q=mallorca%20bike%20hire)

indeed; also smooth tarmac, little traffic, mountains, hills, flatlands, sunshine - one of the top cycling destinations!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: TimC on 22 January, 2016, 02:36:46 pm
Good to read this post, TG. There is no way you let anyone down, and stopping now was the right thing to do under the circumstances. It's good to hear that you'd consider another go after some coaching to get the speed up. I'm sure you can do it, given good luck and a following wind. Well, less headwind (and stray mopeds) anyway!

Enjoy your rest.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 22 January, 2016, 02:38:19 pm
Hi Steve,

We havnt met - apart from me shouting at you from the roadside on one occasion!

I can say without a doubt you have had a huge impact on my riding over the last year, and inspired plenty of other people that I ride with too.   I think you should be very proud of that - that kind of impact is normally reserved for the likes of Olympic champions ect.

Well done!  Enjoy your break and your new place in the record books of British and global cycling.

I await a second attempt with excitement, with a new fitter and faster Steve
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Chris S on 22 January, 2016, 02:40:06 pm
Wherever you go to recover, don't bother booking a Premier Inn, eh?  ;)

Good to see you here, TG.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Wobbly on 22 January, 2016, 02:45:08 pm
Very interesting post Steve.

Personally I hope you *do* decide to give the HAMR another crack. I think you'd stand a better chance as you have learned so much from attempts #1 & #2.

Whatever you decide to do - bonne chance!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: redfalo on 22 January, 2016, 02:58:20 pm
Don't beat yourself up, Steve! What you have achieved is just utterly amazing, physically as well as mentally.

One thought - rest and sleep is all fine, but is there the need of doing some structured de-training? Not cycling at all after 12 months of super-human effort may be quite a shock for your body?

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: woollypigs on 22 January, 2016, 03:06:05 pm
And he is back, but then again did you leave :) Jolly good show! Take some time off, kick back relax do what you want to do.

Thank you for an entertaining year and a bit TG, it have lifted my spirit as a sofa cyclist.

Oh if I'm mended I'm up for a ride to a cafe sometime with you, these yacf jollies are jolly good fun :)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Clemo on 22 January, 2016, 03:23:10 pm
Thanks Steve, its been an amazing experience following your exploits.


As others have said chill out and enjoy yourself  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Robh on 22 January, 2016, 03:32:58 pm
Thanks for the post Steve, great to hear from you. Take it easy and be good to yourself!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: madcow on 22 January, 2016, 03:34:27 pm
Steve-
Thank you for posting so promptly and with thought, after what was obviously a big decision for you.
You haven't let anybody down, we were just the audience and support.
As you say things didn't work out as planned. Even Eisenhower had his resignation letter written as he said goodbye to the D-day troops.
Enjoy your rest, whether it is on two wheels or not. You are a legend and inspiration to many. Well done.



Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hellymedic on 22 January, 2016, 03:42:48 pm
Welcome back Steve!
Mallorca is nice (but Fred Chopin had a miserable winter there once upon a time).
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LEE on 22 January, 2016, 03:46:26 pm
Do whatever it takes to enjoy cycling. Cafe rides, Camping, 10 miles, 100 miles..whatever it takes.

My little anecdote:

In 2011 I drove to PBP.  I completed it and drove home. On arriving home I found I had completely fallen out of love with cycling, I was cycled-out.  I did other stuff for 2 years.

In 2015 I rode to PBP, started PBP but bailed out on the return journey with neck problems.  I felt very, very, low in Loudeac.  I rode home from Paris, stopping at any nice cafe or bar that took my fancy and fell totally in love with cycling during the ride home.  My failed PBP felt so much better than my previous success.

With hindsight it's obvious, I crave a challenge like PBP but, fundamentally, I LOVE riding between stops at nice bars and cafes (rather than riding past them wishing I had time to stop).

Time for you to stop at a few nice bars and cafes i think.

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Andydauddwr on 22 January, 2016, 03:52:22 pm
If your touring brings you across the border, you're very welcome at the Aberffrwd audax hotel. 

When you get to the pursuit of faster, it may be worth looking at indoor training with a smart trainer.  It's a growing area but I'm beginning to see some benefits, especially in weather avoidance.  I dare say Hoppo would have some thoughts on that too.

Meanwhile, enjoy the rest - you've earned it!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: DCLane on 22 January, 2016, 04:00:30 pm
Thanks for a detailed post.

You've earnt a huge amount of respect from me (and others) for even trying, let alone achieving what you've done.

Rest, recover and enjoy doing the stuff you haven't had the chance to do for the past 13 months.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: phil653 on 22 January, 2016, 04:02:27 pm
Steve, Greetings from an exiled YACFer in a quiet corner of SW Spain. Huge respect for what you've achieved. Following your progress has been tremendous. Thank you for being such an inspiration.

If you need a place in the sun to stay while in recovery mode, we have a spare room, a shedful of bikes, a tandem and assorted BSOs. The roads are quiet and generally smooth thanks to the largesse from Brussels. PM me if this is of interest.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 22 January, 2016, 04:03:58 pm
Your post sounds like the right sort of things all round TG. Welcome back to the madhouse.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: marcusjb on 22 January, 2016, 04:16:36 pm
Steve, I can only repeat what I said here: https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=95465.msg1978174#msg1978174

Your post sounds like you have a good idea of what you have to do over the coming weeks/months to recuperate and work out what next. 

For the moment, it sounds like eating well, stretching and sleeping are all going to be on the menu! 

You look after yourself, keep yourself active physically and mentally and then begin to think about the future. 

But, yes, I personally, would be very tempted by some gentle touring (keep it to, hmm let's say under a hundred miles a day yes?) somewhere warm and sunny with good cafe/bar stops.

Whatever you need, just do not worry about asking because the cycling community you have put much into will always do it's best to give you something back.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Feline on 22 January, 2016, 04:30:18 pm
Welcome back Steve, you've been much missed!  :-*

I have to admit that I am so very relieved that you're still alive and well at the end of this- my biggest fear was you could so easily be killed.

Your efforts have been massively impressive- there have been so many days this year when it's been pissing it down or hideously windy and you've been out there all day and half the night in it. It's amazing what you've done with no camper van to follow you in our changeable climate (not to mention dangerous moped riders taking you out).

I really hope you have some really good rest and relaxation time- definitely a time for being kind to yourself both mentally and physically.
P.S. There will always be a bed and hot meal for you here on your next attempt or any ride you happen to do in these parts  ;D
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: bikey-mikey on 22 January, 2016, 04:32:07 pm
Steve, you were my hero and inspiration when I first started audaxing, about five years ago.......

Five years may have gone by, but I have to say "Nothing has changed - you're still my hero !!"

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Frank9755 on 22 January, 2016, 04:39:22 pm
Well done, Steve
- on taking us all with you on an amazing journey over the last year
- for re-starting interest in one of the most challenging records in any sport
- for having the good sense to stop when the numbers meant it was the sensible option to avoid unnecessary injury and pain.
- for having such a balanced perspective in your message above. 

All the advice would be don't make any decisions or commitments on anything just yet but let yourself come back down to Earth gently. 

Welcome back!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Hummers on 22 January, 2016, 04:41:10 pm
Mr Whitehead has suggested you may be interested in joining us on a Wednesday evening.

There is always a bed at Hummers Holt for you if you wan to stay over.

H
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: drgannet on 22 January, 2016, 04:45:33 pm
Thank you for taking the time to share some of your thoughts with us Steve. What you did last year was truly phenomenal, especially with all the things that conspired against you. It's down to you that we have all this renewed interest in the year record, you've inspired lots of people and given many others pleasure from following your and Kurt's exploits. I look forward to seeing you out on the road again soon.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Wowbagger on 22 January, 2016, 04:59:31 pm
...that kind of impact is normally reserved for the likes of Olympic champions ect.

If I may say so, Mr. Abraham is a member of a much more exclusive club than olympic champions. He is a member of a much more exclusive club that TdF winners. He is in a more exclusive club that those people who have done both those things. He is in the club of those people who have ridden more than 60,000 miles in a single year, and there are only two living members of that club.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: SoreTween on 22 January, 2016, 05:01:50 pm
Hi Steve,

Thanks for the inspiration and entertainment these past 11 months (I was a bit late to the party).  I've always been a bit of a fair weather cyclist but last spring watching your exploits got me out in all weathers to train.  Thanks to that early start come August I survived a week on the Pennine Bridleway, the memories of that holiday with a good friend are something I shall always treasure. 

I hope we meet one day rather better than me being a blob of black on a black background cheering you past, I owe you a beer or two.

Rest well.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hellymedic on 22 January, 2016, 05:05:58 pm
FOOD
REST
FUN

That is almost all IMHO.
Enjoy!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: alotronic on 22 January, 2016, 05:10:52 pm
Chapeau! Being gracious, honest and thoughtful as you sign out of a mission is the mark of maturity and insight - and in this you have been exemplary - well done.

A
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Tomsk on 22 January, 2016, 05:16:12 pm
Thank you Steve and a big pat on the back! It's been quite a year [and a bit].

I'm sure that whatever you do next will be the right thing for you. And you have a lot of friends here and in the world of long distance cycling who will back you all the way and forever be in awe.

Write the book?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Kim on 22 January, 2016, 05:20:25 pm
Late to this because I was, well, riding my bike.

What everyone else has said basically.  Rest, recover, and hopefully see you at some point down the road.   :thumbsup:

I reckon Kajsa would be delighted if you turned up to one of her rides...


ETA: Now might be a good time to (re)read this thread: https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=87384.0
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 January, 2016, 05:33:34 pm
Well done Steve. Take it easy on yourself and recover properly.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Aidan on 22 January, 2016, 05:40:04 pm
GO STEVE   ( sorry had to do it one more time ;D)

Go and do some real chilling, go on holiday, go for a little ride, go and do something other than cycling, go and do something a bit less full on.

You have more than earned it!

All the best
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ashaman42 on 22 January, 2016, 05:51:15 pm
Here's a thought  - does Marsh Gibbon have the facilities to host a YACF camping/cycling/shenanigans weekend? :))
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: trumpet on 22 January, 2016, 05:57:44 pm
Great effort Steve. Chapeau!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: jane on 22 January, 2016, 06:05:46 pm
Steve...you're a legend!  I watched the video you made with your team and was amazed that, within such a short time since taking the decision to quit, you were able to talk about the situation, clearly, sensibly, and even with a touch of humour.  I can't think anyone else would have had the strength or courage to do that.  You continue to amaze me.  Not only are you clearly one of the toughest cyclists alive on the planet today, you are a great bloke.  Which may well make you unique.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: MacB on 22 January, 2016, 06:09:25 pm
Steve, everything you have done deserves respect, from the initial daydreams you had all the way to making this hardest of decisions. I, like most of the planet, couldn't have managed one week of what you have achieved, mentally or physically.

Oh and I think the record you have set may never be broken....completing a year of riding including a broken ankle. You broke an ankle and yet still got your name close to the top of all time mile munchers.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 22 January, 2016, 06:11:01 pm
All I can say is, see you soon out on the road. You own it.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ben T on 22 January, 2016, 06:19:10 pm
Doesn't float my boat but gather it does yours Steve... go for a ride on fixed, after a whole year of gears  ;)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Julian on 22 January, 2016, 07:41:27 pm
You continue to be an inspiration to me Steve and I know a lot of others feel the same.

If it takes courage and determination to start something like that, it must take the same or more to know when to call it a day.

Hope to see you on a YACF camping jolly at some stage. :)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ian H on 22 January, 2016, 07:47:50 pm
There's plenty of time to think and lay plans.  You have more than a few years before you can join the old farts' club.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Southend65 on 22 January, 2016, 08:16:51 pm
What now?

Time to set up a "Buy TG a beer" GoFundMe page.

I'm sure that we could beat the $3,230 that other competitors have raised  :)

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Wobbly John on 22 January, 2016, 08:17:47 pm
Doesn't float my boat but gather it does yours Steve... go for a ride on fixed, after a whole year of gears  ;)

Just remember to keep pedalling!  ;)

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: barakta on 22 January, 2016, 09:03:50 pm
Am in awe of your achievements, the HAM'R and this last 13 months of cycling. I understand your sadness, that's to be expected but know that I certainly think you are an utter legend. 

Wishing you the best for recuperation, recovery, rest and all that. My mum (who's had a v hard time recently) has been in hot place for a winter holiday and says it was amazing. Definitely think a nice holiday is a plan if you can manage it.

I raise my cup of tea to you!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: L.Lagopus on 22 January, 2016, 09:21:57 pm
Steve, I thoroughly enjoyed following your progress on this attempt. It was a great, great effort--unbelievably impressive. Even though things did not entirely go your way, you brought renewed interest in the HAMR, and inspired quite a few people (myself included).
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: ElyDave on 22 January, 2016, 09:24:44 pm
Obviously a very difficult choice, but good to see that you are still able to see what you have achieved in the last year and a bit in a positive light, as it should be.

Even without the record it's an achievement most of our minds boggle at.

Having just caught the audax bug, I'll hopefully get a chance to meet you on the road somewhere
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Wobbly on 22 January, 2016, 10:50:21 pm
You have more than a few years before you can join the old farts' club.

Whereas....  :-\
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Greenbank on 22 January, 2016, 10:53:02 pm
Still 10 years for Steve to get to Kurt's age (when he started his attempt).
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: crowriver on 22 January, 2016, 11:29:00 pm
Steve, please don't feel as though you have let anyone down. Rather, you have been an inspiration to many.

I suppose now you have the opportunity to get on with the rest of your life for a while. There's plenty of time to mull over any possible future challenges you may want to take on. In the meantime, relax and enjoy yourself: you have earned a good rest.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: StuAff on 22 January, 2016, 11:32:08 pm
Mr Whitehead has suggested you may be interested in joining us on a Wednesday evening.

There is always a bed at Hummers Holt for you if you wan to stay over.

H
Hope you take this offer up Steve, it would be great to ride with you if I can. And there are some Strava segments where I'm faster than you....that needs putting right! :)
If you fancy a social night ride, FNRttCs are still going strong, you'd be very welcome.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Notsototalnewbie on 23 January, 2016, 12:35:03 pm
I remain in awe of what you've achieved, Steve. And would definitely be up for a social cafe ride sometime.

I haven't commented a lot on here, mainly because apart from training for the RideLondon 100 last year I'm a very lazy cyclist who mainly cycles from cafe to cafe and therefore don't consider myself qualified to comment on such a spectacular feat, but I have been following your attempt and consider you a huge inspiration when pootling around my sites on cold, miserable days. You're amazing.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: fruitcake on 23 January, 2016, 08:47:45 pm
Just saw your latest tweet and then found your youtube announcement.

You have demonstrated tremendous ambition, superb determination and impressive stamina even in the face of adversity. Awesome is an over-used word  but this HAS been an awesome cycling year by anyone's standards.

It's also clear that you've stayed clear-headed enough to analyse your own performance such that you can come to this decision, given that your goal was to be the world's best.

Hats off to you. When you joined ACF you were already a legendary cyclist among UK audaxers. You're now even more of a legend, Steve. Truly an epic ride. Time now to rest body and mind and adjust to a different daily routine, one that contains less cycling (but a routine that still contains some).

Over the next few days, the sense of loss may be overwhelming, but over the coming weeks and months, you'll discover just what you've gained.

EDITED TO FIX A TYPO
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Arry-R on 23 January, 2016, 09:34:51 pm
An excellent posting FRUITCAKE.  You've summed it like a piece of cake!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: offcumden on 24 January, 2016, 02:14:14 pm
Over the next few days, the sense of less may be overwhelming, but over the coming weeks and months, you'll discover just what you've gained.

Sorry, but this made me smile  :)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Malmesbury Monk on 24 January, 2016, 02:31:14 pm
So many times on difficult rides, when the thought of slowing down or even stopping altogether, has flashed through my mind, I've thought of you out there slogging away. A true inspiration to others, and you won't stop being one just because this particular attempt has ended.  What you did achieve will be remembered for many years to come.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Justin(e) on 24 January, 2016, 02:53:41 pm
Appreciate the post TG.

Allez Steve.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Derek on 24 January, 2016, 07:35:26 pm
Have a good break.

Hope to pass you round MK

Derek
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Bairn Again on 24 January, 2016, 09:30:51 pm
nice post steve, you've no need to "go public" as it were but it shows your mettle that you do.

look after #1 for a bit, there loads of us out here who have so much respect for you.

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: sg37409 on 25 January, 2016, 03:17:19 am
I'm one of those your inspired (I did my biggest mileage in 2015.) I think its time to rest and recharge.  All the best steve.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: contango on 25 January, 2016, 03:42:22 am

I don't see how cycling more miles in a month than many people cycle in a year counts as letting anyone down. I'd hazard a guess many audaxers don't cover 5000 miles in a year, I know I never did. What you've achieved is pretty amazing.

What next - I imagine with 60,000 miles (more or less 100,000km) under your belt you've accumulated enough DIY points to beat even bikey mikey :)

Or you could revert to riding your bike more sensible distances, the kind of distance lesser mortals (people like me) could cover in a day. Enjoy the cake along the way, you've earned it.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: fruitcake on 25 January, 2016, 10:33:20 am
Over the next few days, the sense of less may be overwhelming, but over the coming weeks and months, you'll discover just what you've gained.

Sorry, but this made me smile  :-)

Yes, that is quite a funny typo, given the subject!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 25 January, 2016, 11:29:46 am
I may have made this offer elsewhere or may have just imagined it, but any rider that has achieved a verified cycling mileage of 60,000 miles or more in a calendar year can have free entry to Cambrian Series Permanents, if they have been missing hills  :o
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: mcshroom on 25 January, 2016, 11:51:13 am
Late to the thread. But can I first say Congratulations on your achievement. I know the target was Godwin's record, but riding 102,368 kms is still a massive acievement, especially with the injury. Also you are the reason that the record is now back in the spotlight. What a legacy that is.

Please take as much time as you need to relax and don't rush into anything. You haven't let anyone down, and have been an inspiration to many, including me. :)

Chapeau Steve!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 January, 2016, 12:43:53 pm
+1m to that
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: rogerzilla on 25 January, 2016, 06:39:11 pm
I'm glad we can wave goodbye to all that "Steve" rubbish...we've got our Teethgrinder back!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: trumpet on 26 January, 2016, 09:50:08 pm
Slightly OT, but wouldn't it be great if Brooks produced a LTD Edition "Steve Abraham" Team Pro?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: teethgrinder on 26 January, 2016, 10:08:20 pm
Brooks did make 3 saddles out of extra tough leather just for me, so in a way, they did. And they're mine. All mine! :demon: :smug:
And they are very good too. :smug:
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: barakta on 26 January, 2016, 10:38:14 pm
*giggles*
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hellymedic on 26 January, 2016, 10:56:29 pm
Brooks did make 3 saddles out of extra tough leather just for me, so in a way, they did. And they're mine. All mine! :demon: :smug:
And they are very good too. :smug:

[LIKE]   :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: contango on 27 January, 2016, 04:07:56 am
Brooks did make 3 saddles out of extra tough leather just for me, so in a way, they did. And they're mine. All mine! :demon: :smug:
And they are very good too. :smug:

So if you go for the fully funded attempt (as mentioned in the other thread) you could raise a chunk of cash by auctioning them off :)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ningishzidda on 27 January, 2016, 01:16:40 pm
Brooks did make 3 saddles out of extra tough leather just for me, so in a way, they did. And they're mine. All mine! :demon: :smug:
And they are very good too. :smug:

Contact the BBC and say you're willing to raffle one for Sport Relief.

Which
a/ Gets you publicity.
b/ Gets Brooks VFM for a freebie advert on the BBC.
c/ Gets you chance to get on the telly.
d/ Gets you one step closer to an OBE.
e/ Gets the BBC primed for another attempt if that happens.
f/ Gets Brooks on your side for another attempt if that happens.
g/ Arouses other sponsors to another attempt if that happens.

 :thumbsup:

http://www.sportrelief.com/events/cycle?utm_source=bbc_portal&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=cycle

I'm planning to ride the 50 miler, if there's room  ???

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: fruitcake on 27 January, 2016, 01:19:45 pm
That's bloody genius.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: T42 on 27 January, 2016, 01:45:22 pm
Hi TG, I just noticed this thread as well.  Thanks for your opening post, it made interesting reading with a bit of food for thought.  I can't/won't offer any advice other than to simply enjoy life. And thanks for the past year, it was inspiring.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ningishzidda on 27 January, 2016, 01:48:30 pm
Contrary to what you might read on the internet, the Lee Valley in East London which follows the course of the river Lea ( notice different spelling ) is named such after Sir Robert Lee of Stratford Langdon, who now lies at rest in St Mary’s, Hardwick, Buckinghamshire.
Sir Robert passed in 1616.

Later in that century, a Lee from a different family met by coincidence in Virginia, USA, a Lee from Sir Robert’s family. The Lee for the other family bought the manor of Stratford. He was Richard Lee the immigrant who was ancestor of the two Lee’s on the declaration of independence, and ancestor of Gen Robert E Lee.
Sir Robert Lee of Stratford Langdon was the nephew of another Robert Lee. Sir Robert Lee of Aston Abbotts and Quarrendon in Bucks. Sir Robert of Quarrendon was father of Sir Anthony Lee who married Margaret Wyatt, lady in waiting to Anne Boleyn.

Sir Robert Lee of Aston Abbotts and Quarrendon owned a lot of lands in North Bucks, including around a small village called Quainton, a most beautiful village.  :'(
Sir Robert’s descendants had their homes in many of the North Bucks villages. Grandborough, Hardwick, Weedon, Waddesdon, Fleet Marston, the Claydons and ( big surprise ) Marsh Gibbon.  ;D

It has been an absolute pleasure to follow your progress over the last year and a bit. I sincerely hope you restart sometime in the future, AND continue to ride through the land of my ancestors.  :smug:

I met a group from North Bucks CC at the George & Dragon tea rooms in Quainton one Sunday morning.
Must say tho’,, the nosh is less expensive in Warwickshire. ;)

My regards.

Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Arry-R on 27 January, 2016, 04:15:29 pm

d/ Gets you one step closer to an OBE.



Thought he'd already got that 
OBE =  one boiled egg! !


[/quote]
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Mr Larrington on 27 January, 2016, 06:47:09 pm
Contrary to what you might read on the internet, the Lee Valley in East London which follows the course of the river Lea ( notice different spelling ) is named such after Sir Robert Lee of Stratford Langdon, who now lies at rest in St Mary’s, Hardwick, Buckinghamshire.
Sir Robert passed in 1616.

That'd be why the name was in use well before the Normans showed up, then.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hellymedic on 27 January, 2016, 06:58:51 pm
Contrary to what you might read on the internet, the Lee Valley in East London which follows the course of the river Lea ( notice different spelling ) is named such after Sir Robert Lee of Stratford Langdon, who now lies at rest in St Mary’s, Hardwick, Buckinghamshire.
Sir Robert passed in 1616.

That'd be why the name was in use well before the Normans showed up, then.

;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: trumpet on 27 January, 2016, 09:26:21 pm
Slightly OT, but wouldn't it be great if Brooks produced a LTD Edition "Steve Abraham" Team Pro?

I contacted Brooks via Facebook with the suggestion. They think it's a great idea too !   - How many could we pre-sell on the forum?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: red marley on 27 January, 2016, 09:34:29 pm
I would if it was a Cambium. Not leather though. Not even extra tough Teethgrinder rawhide.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 27 January, 2016, 09:55:10 pm
No. TG's saddles used Brooks' organic leather.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Greenbank on 27 January, 2016, 11:04:57 pm
I would if it was a Cambium. Not leather though. Not even extra tough Teethgrinder rawhide.

I'm the same, but not for all of the same reasons I guess.

(A TG Special Edition C15 with Ti rails for me please.)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ningishzidda on 28 January, 2016, 03:56:34 pm
Contrary to what you might read on the internet, the Lee Valley in East London which follows the course of the river Lea ( notice different spelling ) is named such after Sir Robert Lee of Stratford Langdon, who now lies at rest in St Mary’s, Hardwick, Buckinghamshire.
Sir Robert passed in 1616.

That'd be why the name was in use well before the Normans showed up, then.

Yeh. What a coincidence.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ningishzidda on 28 January, 2016, 04:05:43 pm
Contrary to what you might read on the internet, the Lee Valley in East London which follows the course of the river Lea ( notice different spelling ) is named such after Sir Robert Lee of Stratford Langdon, who now lies at rest in St Mary’s, Hardwick, Buckinghamshire.
Sir Robert passed in 1616.

That'd be why the name was in use well before the Normans showed up, then.



;D ;D ;D

It is also a coincidence Anglo Saxon  "Healameadlic" is ‘Heel measure’, or loosely construed as ‘High heels’.

Do you?  ;)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hillbilly on 28 January, 2016, 04:13:12 pm
No. TG's saddles used Brooks' organic leather.

Is that distinct from the igneous leather they use normally?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: clarion on 28 January, 2016, 04:21:17 pm
Even I might try a Teethgrinder Limited Edition Cambium! :o

*whole forum faints in surprise*
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Kim on 28 January, 2016, 04:23:19 pm
Even I might try a Teethgrinder Limited Edition Cambium! :o

What for?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LEE on 28 January, 2016, 05:11:07 pm
Still 10 years for Steve to get to Kurt's age (when he started his attempt).

The record may well have been pushed into (even more) stupid territory by then.

220 miles a day bags you 80,000 miles.

I can see HAMR as a logical target for RAAM cyclists.

HOWEVER.... I still think that breaking the Tommy Godwin record, solely in the UK, by cycling from where you finished on the previous evening, will be open for an attempt for a while.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: toontra on 28 January, 2016, 05:23:34 pm
HOWEVER.... I still think that breaking the Tommy Godwin record, solely in the UK, by cycling from where you finished on the previous evening, will be open for an attempt for a while.

Point of order: it's not the Tommy Godwin record any more - it's the Kurt Searvogel record.  I know it takes a bit of time to adjust the mindset but let's start giving Kurt the title he earned!
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Karla on 28 January, 2016, 05:26:13 pm
How about the Rene Menzies record for doing it in France, or the Ossie Nicholson record for doing it in Australia?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Greenbank on 28 January, 2016, 05:26:51 pm
HOWEVER.... I still think that breaking the Tommy Godwin record, solely in the UK, by cycling from where you finished on the previous evening, will be open for an attempt for a while.

What would that record be (in terms of miles)? Even Tommy didn't ride under those rules.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 28 January, 2016, 05:41:30 pm
I think the criteria for someone achieving this record are very selective.

1) (IMHO the toughest) - a commitment to ride at least 11 - 12 hours every day for 365 days.   That's a level of dedication that drives world class musicians insane, top flight snooker players to get the jitters, and office workaholics like me to act like teapots.

2) In doing that you have to be able to ride at 18mph+ for that period (or increase the riding period to 14 hours per day) - see commitment 1

3) You require the social skills (have to be a nice enough person) that 1 - 2 others are going to give up their entire life for a year to support you, or 5 - 10 people are going to make a very serious commitment.

4) Willing to commit to the rules of the competiton around tracking etc, which imposes an additional level of discipline and stress.

The combination of all 4, odds against are astronomical.  Hence why Kurt and Steve are so special for what they did manage to achieve last year.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LEE on 28 January, 2016, 05:48:16 pm
HOWEVER.... I still think that breaking the Tommy Godwin record, solely in the UK, by cycling from where you finished on the previous evening, will be open for an attempt for a while.

What would that record be (in terms of miles)? Even Tommy didn't ride under those rules.

Well maybe there's an opening for that record, under those rules.

HAMR rules seem to allow for being driven to a very high place, with a prevailing wind, and cycling downhill with the wind on your back for 200 miles ... and repeat.

If people are going to fly between locations with the best current conditions then there's no way you can compete with that in the UK any more.  It just takes a freaky bad January and it's over.

What about "The most unbroken miles in a year" record?  If you want to get to a nice warm road in January then start cycling towards Spain in December.

I don't know.. maybe Steve holds the (my new unofficial) record.  Was he driven between start points at all?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: mattc on 28 January, 2016, 05:50:04 pm
yes - at least once. But probably less than a dozen times, and I think only quite recently (2016 only?)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hillbilly on 28 January, 2016, 05:57:54 pm
Ferry in both directions to ride PBP in 2015.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: teethgrinder on 28 January, 2016, 06:35:32 pm
This was all done when we set the rules with the UMCA.

My first motor transfer was in March, when I first got the broken ankle.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 28 January, 2016, 06:51:55 pm
When you rode up to see Hoppo was the first, perhaps?
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LMT on 29 January, 2016, 12:01:29 pm
HOWEVER.... I still think that breaking the Tommy Godwin record, solely in the UK, by cycling from where you finished on the previous evening, will be open for an attempt for a while.

Point of order: it's not the Tommy Godwin record any more - it's the Kurt Searvogel record.  I know it takes a bit of time to adjust the mindset but let's start giving Kurt the title he earned!

Point of order x 2: It's the HAMR record which is held by Kurt Searvogel. :)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: wajcgac on 29 January, 2016, 01:44:58 pm
HOWEVER.... I still think that breaking the Tommy Godwin record, solely in the UK, by cycling from where you finished on the previous evening, will be open for an attempt for a while.

Point of order: it's not the Tommy Godwin record any more - it's the Kurt Searvogel record.  I know it takes a bit of time to adjust the mindset but let's start giving Kurt the title he earned!

Point of order x 2: It's the HAMR record which is held by Kurt Searvogel. :)

Point of order x3:  :)

It's both the HAMR (50-59 age group and overall) and the Guinness Record that Kurt holds

http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/greatest-distance-cycled-in-a-year (http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/greatest-distance-cycled-in-a-year)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: LEE on 30 January, 2016, 12:22:01 am
Ferry in both directions to ride PBP in 2015.

Well spotted. I think Steve let himself down by taking the easy option to France.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: danridesbikes on 30 January, 2016, 07:19:22 am
WWFD

(http://cdn.coresites.factorymedia.com/rcuk/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PGOS_INC_Eurotunnel-087.jpg)
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: hillbilly on 30 January, 2016, 08:06:50 am
Ferry in both directions to ride PBP in 2015.

Well spotted. I think Steve let himself down by taking the easy option to France.

I am likewise intruigued as to how Bruce will get from Australia to the UK, whilst satisfying the Guinness WR requirements.  I know he thinks he is great, but walking on water (let alone cycling) is the preserve of special ones like Jesus and David Blaine.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Greenbank on 30 January, 2016, 08:47:07 am
I am likewise intruigued as to how Bruce will get from Australia to the UK, whilst satisfying the Guinness WR requirements.

In much the same way that Kajsa will get from the UK to mainland Europe as she plans to do.

I don't think the Guinness rules preclude relocations such as this.
Title: Re: What now?
Post by: Ningishzidda on 31 January, 2016, 02:28:13 pm
Ferry in both directions to ride PBP in 2015.

Well spotted. I think Steve let himself down by taking the easy option to France.

I am likewise intruigued as to how Bruce will get from Australia to the UK, whilst satisfying the Guinness WR requirements.  I know he thinks he is great, but walking on water (let alone cycling) is the preserve of special ones like Jesus and David Blaine.

Give the deck a dressing of tar and small chipping and he'll have no problems.
(http://i1085.photobucket.com/albums/j433/Lighthorse2/Supertanker_zpsdy17urot.jpg) (http://s1085.photobucket.com/user/Lighthorse2/media/Supertanker_zpsdy17urot.jpg.html)

PS. Set up some floodlights and a feeding station.