Left home at 3:50am (planned for 3:30). Felt good the first two hours, then found the hills a struggle, which I put down to giving blood on Thursday as a ride to the shops on Friday was hard work, but the rubbing brakes and mudguard (after a service while replacing the rear sti shifter) played their part. Decided I wouldn't have time for my usual coffee stop at the Buntingford garage. Found the police had closed the road I use out of Braughing, so had to ride down to Standon and spend more time on the A120 (and add on a few miles). Knew I wouldn't make the start for my planned 9am for the 'spoons full value veggie brekky, so new eta's came and went. 9:45 I arrived, after 80 miles.
I heard Big Saxon had left at 9:30 (if I'd left home on time I'd have seen him). 15 minute wait for breakfast. Do I eat and leave later (I eat slow and like the food to settle). I opted for just a coffee and a quick chat. All I'd done so far since Oct were lonely DIY's, and had looked forward to riding with my teammate. The Straggler left while I was still drinking, and I hoped to catch him or BS on the ride. I left at 10:10, and found even the smallest inclines a struggle (had to use the 30t chainring for that unannounced steep climb in that town). Felt spent at 20k, and wondered if I'd make it round. Downed an old gel (didn't feel it kick in). saw on or two to say hello around the info controls, but rode on my own to the Compasses. Finally ate (tasty roasted veg sarnie). All I'd had so far were Belvita brekky biscuits before leaving home (my usual), 3/4 of a flapjack, and energy drink. I knew I was paying the price. The Compasses was packed, but no BS. I thought about a quick stop at the Cressing tea room as I went by, and would have had I known BS and the Straggler were there). Rode a bit with a bloke with a winter hat on, which broke the loneliness. Extremely glad to see the finish. Had a very welcome veg burger, chips and a pint, charging my garmin, while pondering whether to endure a slower, lonely 80 mile ride home, or beg BS for a lift and company.
Chapeau to BS for finishing too. His first Audax since the op (he's sure to tell you more). I enjoyed the lift home, with accompanying chat. That's three times you've brought me home now, so about time we did an audax together so you don't have to get your wallet out!