Wednesday, 20 July 2011
Tuesday, 12 July 2011
The Final Report & Fundraising Update
So it is now a few weeks after our completion of the Coast 2 Coast One Day Challenge & I am finally getting around to completing a write up after a busy time of late. Donations are still coming in for the ride and there is still some sponsor money to collect but our current total on our latest count is a very credible £640!
Back on Friday 10th of June myself, James my parents & James parents made the trip across to Whitehaven to stay the night. We decided to drive across some of our planned route to see what would be in store for us the next day. This turned out to be a bad idea, as we drove down Hartside in particular we found it hard to imagine having to climb this the following day on a bike.
Arriving at our over night stay in Whitehaven we checked into our rooms and even though it was late we decided we needed a little time to unwind and headed for the hotel bar for a stiff orange juice before hitting the pillow. During the hour or so in the bar with our parents we discussed the route further and made some finer adjustments to the pre planned route. We decided to plan a slightly more direct route to limit the miles as much as possible.
I awoke bleary eyed at 6.30am on Saturday 11th June after a restless nights sleep in the hotel. I couldn't help but feel extremely nervous and anxious at the days task that lay ahead. James was still snoozing at the other side of the room.
I flicked the kettle on for a brew, made two bowls of porridge and gave James a shout.
We didn't waste much time getting ready in our room. I think all we both wanted to do was just get out on the road and on our way.
So around about 7.15am we arrived at Whitehaven Marina and made our preparations ready for the off. Bikes put together, tyres inflated, parts lubed, pockets loaded with quick releasing carbohydrates and bottles water bottles filled.
It was now time for all the pre start photos posing next to the C2C start sign.
At roughly 7.30am we eventually began to roll out of Whitehaven Marina heading for the main dual carriage way towards Cockermouth.
I was feeling extremely tense and stiff within the first few miles, a strange feeling that I hadn't felt before on a bike. James suggested a quick early stop to stretch off and try to loosen up. We pulled over just outside Whitehaven and had 5minutes stretch.
Before reaching Cockermouth we turned and headed for Keswick, taking a beautiful road alongside one of the many large lakes. The plan was to have our first stop to re-fuel just outside of Keswick with my parents meeting us with their car in support.
We made very fast time to Keswick from Whitehaven and could of continued on longer but we decided to stop anyway and have a longer spell before the next stop.
After stopping just outside Keswick the next stage of the journey would take us along the A66 all the way to Penrith. This was a slightly monotonous part of the challenge, the dual carriage way just seemed to drag on for ever. This stretch consisted of little climbs that were more difficult than they seemed followed by nice long fast descents.
Again we made quick work of this stretch and we soon found ourselves in Penrith for our next agreed rendezvous with our support team of parents.
It was discussed that the next stretch ahead of us was likely to be the most difficult as it would involve the long climb of Hartside Pass to break over the Pennines. We decided to allow ourselves more time on this section as our average speed would drop dramatically for the climb of Hartside. It was arranged that we would stop next at Hartside Cafe after conquering the climb.
After the tough climb of Hartside it was decided to take a good long break within he cafe. Hartside was a fantastic climb, now one of my favourite climbs. It is not that steep but it's gentle gradient just continues on for over 7 miles. We tackled the climb by getting into a good rhythm and staying seated. There was always something to aim for as mountain bikers began to join the climb. Myself a James climbed very well and soon found ourselves spinning past a lot of other riders all the way to the top.
A good hours break in the cafe with a coffee and pastries was well earned.
Upon leaving Hartside the weather which had started the day glorious had now turned and rain was beginning to fall. We wrapped up warm and prepared ourselves for the quick descent into Alston. The descent was fantastic, we found ourselves topping speeds of over 50mph with cars struggling to match our pace behind.
After a quick descent we soon found ourselves in the village of Alston and a stiff little climb up the cobbles and out the other side heading for St John's Chapel and the stiffest climb of the day.
The rest of the ride seemed to be a bit of a blur, once we gad climbed off the Pennines and passed the Country Durham signs we knew we were near enough home. The weather was taking a turn for the worse again and the rain got quite heavy a one point. Af
Gain we made quick time and flew along the long stretch of A689 from Stanhope to Crook.
At Crook we turned for Bishop Aukland staying on the A689. We headed on through Bishop Aukland to Newton Aycliffe and to the A1. We had a long stop again just outside of Newton Acliffe to re-charge my phone battery. My phone was tracking the ride but the mapping had failed just outside of Bishop Aukland due to a low battery. The next big milestone for us both was crossing the A1 on the A689.
We now knew that within the hour we would be arriving on Hartlepool Marina after successfully completing our ride. Above the A1 on the A689 roundabout we had a boost as a fellow roadie from Middlesbrough was joining us to help lift us through the last 20 miles. Paul who had be tracking our progress on twitter commented on how well we were doing. He also commented that he couldn't believe the pace we were still setting over 100miles into the ride.
The next 20 miles were fast, I got a second wind and felt good so I pulled the now three of us along at 20mph into Hartlepool and into the finish.
Arriving at our finishing on the Marina myself and James congratulated each other on our achievements before crossing the line. We had achieved something that not many people have attempted to do before. Completing the crossing from Whitehaven to Hartlepool in one day and in under 10 hours. Our ride time on the bikes was 7.30 hours with average of around 16mph for he whole ride.
We had pushed ourselves to our limits but all for a great cause.
We both really enjoyed the experience and have completed a challenge to be proud of.
Our total money raised currently stands at £640, money is still being collected as we speak so it is not too late to donate. If you haven't already please do so.
- Posted using BlogPress
Back on Friday 10th of June myself, James my parents & James parents made the trip across to Whitehaven to stay the night. We decided to drive across some of our planned route to see what would be in store for us the next day. This turned out to be a bad idea, as we drove down Hartside in particular we found it hard to imagine having to climb this the following day on a bike.
Arriving at our over night stay in Whitehaven we checked into our rooms and even though it was late we decided we needed a little time to unwind and headed for the hotel bar for a stiff orange juice before hitting the pillow. During the hour or so in the bar with our parents we discussed the route further and made some finer adjustments to the pre planned route. We decided to plan a slightly more direct route to limit the miles as much as possible.
I awoke bleary eyed at 6.30am on Saturday 11th June after a restless nights sleep in the hotel. I couldn't help but feel extremely nervous and anxious at the days task that lay ahead. James was still snoozing at the other side of the room.
I flicked the kettle on for a brew, made two bowls of porridge and gave James a shout.
We didn't waste much time getting ready in our room. I think all we both wanted to do was just get out on the road and on our way.
So around about 7.15am we arrived at Whitehaven Marina and made our preparations ready for the off. Bikes put together, tyres inflated, parts lubed, pockets loaded with quick releasing carbohydrates and bottles water bottles filled.
It was now time for all the pre start photos posing next to the C2C start sign.
At roughly 7.30am we eventually began to roll out of Whitehaven Marina heading for the main dual carriage way towards Cockermouth.
I was feeling extremely tense and stiff within the first few miles, a strange feeling that I hadn't felt before on a bike. James suggested a quick early stop to stretch off and try to loosen up. We pulled over just outside Whitehaven and had 5minutes stretch.
Before reaching Cockermouth we turned and headed for Keswick, taking a beautiful road alongside one of the many large lakes. The plan was to have our first stop to re-fuel just outside of Keswick with my parents meeting us with their car in support.
We made very fast time to Keswick from Whitehaven and could of continued on longer but we decided to stop anyway and have a longer spell before the next stop.
After stopping just outside Keswick the next stage of the journey would take us along the A66 all the way to Penrith. This was a slightly monotonous part of the challenge, the dual carriage way just seemed to drag on for ever. This stretch consisted of little climbs that were more difficult than they seemed followed by nice long fast descents.
Again we made quick work of this stretch and we soon found ourselves in Penrith for our next agreed rendezvous with our support team of parents.
It was discussed that the next stretch ahead of us was likely to be the most difficult as it would involve the long climb of Hartside Pass to break over the Pennines. We decided to allow ourselves more time on this section as our average speed would drop dramatically for the climb of Hartside. It was arranged that we would stop next at Hartside Cafe after conquering the climb.
After the tough climb of Hartside it was decided to take a good long break within he cafe. Hartside was a fantastic climb, now one of my favourite climbs. It is not that steep but it's gentle gradient just continues on for over 7 miles. We tackled the climb by getting into a good rhythm and staying seated. There was always something to aim for as mountain bikers began to join the climb. Myself a James climbed very well and soon found ourselves spinning past a lot of other riders all the way to the top.
A good hours break in the cafe with a coffee and pastries was well earned.
Upon leaving Hartside the weather which had started the day glorious had now turned and rain was beginning to fall. We wrapped up warm and prepared ourselves for the quick descent into Alston. The descent was fantastic, we found ourselves topping speeds of over 50mph with cars struggling to match our pace behind.
After a quick descent we soon found ourselves in the village of Alston and a stiff little climb up the cobbles and out the other side heading for St John's Chapel and the stiffest climb of the day.
The rest of the ride seemed to be a bit of a blur, once we gad climbed off the Pennines and passed the Country Durham signs we knew we were near enough home. The weather was taking a turn for the worse again and the rain got quite heavy a one point. Af
Gain we made quick time and flew along the long stretch of A689 from Stanhope to Crook.
At Crook we turned for Bishop Aukland staying on the A689. We headed on through Bishop Aukland to Newton Aycliffe and to the A1. We had a long stop again just outside of Newton Acliffe to re-charge my phone battery. My phone was tracking the ride but the mapping had failed just outside of Bishop Aukland due to a low battery. The next big milestone for us both was crossing the A1 on the A689.
We now knew that within the hour we would be arriving on Hartlepool Marina after successfully completing our ride. Above the A1 on the A689 roundabout we had a boost as a fellow roadie from Middlesbrough was joining us to help lift us through the last 20 miles. Paul who had be tracking our progress on twitter commented on how well we were doing. He also commented that he couldn't believe the pace we were still setting over 100miles into the ride.
The next 20 miles were fast, I got a second wind and felt good so I pulled the now three of us along at 20mph into Hartlepool and into the finish.
Arriving at our finishing on the Marina myself and James congratulated each other on our achievements before crossing the line. We had achieved something that not many people have attempted to do before. Completing the crossing from Whitehaven to Hartlepool in one day and in under 10 hours. Our ride time on the bikes was 7.30 hours with average of around 16mph for he whole ride.
We had pushed ourselves to our limits but all for a great cause.
We both really enjoyed the experience and have completed a challenge to be proud of.
Our total money raised currently stands at £640, money is still being collected as we speak so it is not too late to donate. If you haven't already please do so.
- Posted using BlogPress
Wednesday, 15 June 2011
One Day Coast 2 Coast Challenge Done!
I haven't had chance to write a full blog yet but I wanted to update the site on how we got on. A full blog will follow in the coming days!
Thanks to all those who made donations for my challenge of riding coast 2 coast in the day for the neonatal unit at North Tees Hospital
Myself & James completed the challenge on Saturday and we were over the moon with over achievement. We set off from Whitehaven at 7.30am on Saturday morning and arrived back at Hartlepool for 5.30pm some 10 hours later!
Our ride time was 7.32 hours and we averaged around 16mph!
Thanks again, and it’s still not too late to donate if you haven’t already!
Thursday, 9 June 2011
1day to go!
So there is now only one day to go, final preparations are taking place and the route has been finalised! This is going to be a tough challenge and nerves are starting to develop! We are setting off driving to Whitehaven tomorrow night before setting off on the bikes early Sarurday morning, hopefully after good nights sleep.
See route link below:
http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=254790
If anyone would like to join us along our way (on your bike) or at Hartlepool Marina to celebrate at the end we would welcome your support & encouragement!
We envisage to be arriving in Hartlepool sometime from 4pm after leaving Whitehaven at 7am.
Follow our progress on twitter or Facebook
@ad_brooks
@jamesgutridge
- Posted using BlogPress
See route link below:
http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=254790
If anyone would like to join us along our way (on your bike) or at Hartlepool Marina to celebrate at the end we would welcome your support & encouragement!
We envisage to be arriving in Hartlepool sometime from 4pm after leaving Whitehaven at 7am.
Follow our progress on twitter or Facebook
@ad_brooks
@jamesgutridge
- Posted using BlogPress
Location:North Ln,,United Kingdom
Monday, 6 June 2011
5 Days & counting.......................
Myself, James and my brother Neil spent Saturday afternoon at North Tees Hospital, promoting the ride within the foyer of the Hospital and meeting with staff from the Neo Natal Department. We got a great response from the general public and people donated very kindly.
We are now in the final week now before the Challenge on Saturday. I will be taking this week fairly easy, maybe one or two gentle spins out on the bike or the turbo but that will be all. I don't want any signs of fatigue at all before Saturday. Unfortunately the weather forecast isn't looking great and it looks like we could get wet at some point on the ride. We are now fully stocked up on supplies, the support car will be bursting at the seems with energy gels, energy powder drinks, flapjacks, jelly babies etc.
Need to be careful what I eat this week as well, going to cut back until Thursday then eat like its my last meal ever on Friday! Pasta Pasta Pasta!
Need to be careful what I eat this week as well, going to cut back until Thursday then eat like its my last meal ever on Friday! Pasta Pasta Pasta!
Friday, 3 June 2011
Promoting the challenge
I will be on BBC Radio Tees this morning from 10.50am talking about Oliver, the challenge and North Tees Hospital. Make sure you tune in to listen.
Also we will all be at North Tees Hospital on Saturday (3/6/11) from 2pm promoting the ride and hopefully raising lots more money. Pop along and see us on our bikes and donate kindly.
Also we will all be at North Tees Hospital on Saturday (3/6/11) from 2pm promoting the ride and hopefully raising lots more money. Pop along and see us on our bikes and donate kindly.
Finially who saw us in the Gazette last week?
Tuesday, 31 May 2011
Richmond 4 Dale Sportive
I took part in the Richmond 4 Dale Sportive on Saturday. I had done this distance last year (80 miles) as my first ever Sportive and loved it. I had challenged myself this year to go one better and do the 5 Dale 100 as my last long training ride before the c2c. Unfortunatley because of how tough this ride is and coupled with the horrendous wind on the day I opted out of the 100 and stuck with the 80 again.
Having ridden this same ride last year I knew more about what to expect, where the big climbs where and when I needed to saved my energy and when I could push hard. Due to all my training I have been doing of late I knew I should be able to beat last years time.
So I headed out of Hartlepool with the bike in the car and off to Richmond for an 8am start. I arrived at Richmond School checked in got my bike together all my kit sorted and ready to roll! I spotted another few lads from Hartlepool and rode the first 2 miles out of Richmond with them. I then never seen them again! Things started well I was feeling good and strong. At this point I still had every intention of completing the 100. This was soon to change. Once out in the open the strength of the wind was having it's toll on all the riders. I was struggling to maintain an average of 15mph on the flat as was alot of other people. I decided to take it fairly steady as I knew that the first big climb of the day was only round the corner, the Stang. In the run up to the Stang I managed to hang onto a small group that got working well together and got a bit of a shading from the wind, only problem was as soon as the gradient started to kick up I found myself riding solo at the front!
Having ridden this same ride last year I knew more about what to expect, where the big climbs where and when I needed to saved my energy and when I could push hard. Due to all my training I have been doing of late I knew I should be able to beat last years time.
So I headed out of Hartlepool with the bike in the car and off to Richmond for an 8am start. I arrived at Richmond School checked in got my bike together all my kit sorted and ready to roll! I spotted another few lads from Hartlepool and rode the first 2 miles out of Richmond with them. I then never seen them again! Things started well I was feeling good and strong. At this point I still had every intention of completing the 100. This was soon to change. Once out in the open the strength of the wind was having it's toll on all the riders. I was struggling to maintain an average of 15mph on the flat as was alot of other people. I decided to take it fairly steady as I knew that the first big climb of the day was only round the corner, the Stang. In the run up to the Stang I managed to hang onto a small group that got working well together and got a bit of a shading from the wind, only problem was as soon as the gradient started to kick up I found myself riding solo at the front!
I made it up the Stang within good time and without getting off as I had to last year! I stayed seated for most of the climb before getting out the saddle to attack the final hairpin! Once over the Stang and onto the Moor the wind was horrendous. this is usually a great road all the way to Tan Hill that you can fly along! Not today, the wind was blowing directly against us at over 25 mph! This had everyone struggling along at almost single figures mph! This drag went on forever before eventually raching Tan Hill and dropping down to the first feed station at Keld! When arriving at Keld it was obvious how much the wind was effecting everyone! It had battered me for over 2 hours on the moors!
This helped me make my decision that it would only be the 80 for me today! I didn't hang around at Keld and was soon off again heading for Birkdale Common, another tough couple of climbs ahead made even tougher by the battering we where still reciveing by the wind.
During this stretch I hook up with a rider from York and we road together to Hawes the next feed stop. Again I didn't spend long at Hawes and the guy for York decided to head off with me as well.
Thankfully we ahere now changing direction out of Hawes and heading back for Richmond this now ment the wind was with us. With that in mind I got my head down and power back towards Richmond hitting 30 mph on some flat roads!
Just before Richmond came a little shock as there was a slight change to last years route! Another climb had been added 7 miles from Richmond! This stung and had me loose touch with the small group I had road with from Hawes. The last 7 miles where spent on my own but I soon arrived back in Richmond completely shattered!
Route: Richmond Sportive
Google Maps URL: http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110528-0820.kml
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/kPKSAh
Import URL: http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110528-0820.kml
Ride Time: 5:39:17
Stopped Time: 16:49
Distance: 79.13 miles
Average: 13.99 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 41.83 miles/h
Ascent: 4481 feet
Google Maps URL: http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110528-0820.kml
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/kPKSAh
Import URL: http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110528-0820.kml
Ride Time: 5:39:17
Stopped Time: 16:49
Distance: 79.13 miles
Average: 13.99 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 41.83 miles/h
Ascent: 4481 feet
I had managed to better last years time by over an hour which I was over the moon about after such a tough day! I came 45th out of 121 riders doing the 4 dale 80.
The Richmond Sportive once again should what a fantasic event it is and an extremely tough challenge for any calibre of rider! I will certainly be returning again next year for the 100. (if theres no wind)
Friday, 20 May 2011
3 weeks and counting!
So the big day is not too far away now and the training has been alittle none exsistent of late. Must try harder.
Having just moved house last weekend i've been struugling to get out on the bike recently and my training in the gym has been none exsistent. Im away on a course this weekend as well so wont get a long ride in before the Richmond next week. Planning on taking part in the Richmond 5 Dale 100 Mile Sportive next Saturday as the last big training ride before the C2C.
So it was lovely night last night got straight home from work and got out as quick as I could.
I have now moved to Elwick village on the outskirts of Hartlepool so no longer have to cycle out of town through trafficwhich makes a massive difference.
Headed out from Elwick towards Hart via High Throston, onto Wingate and then towards Trimdon Station, From here I went alittle off plan and found myself with a stiff little climb up to Quarryington Hill that I have never done before, then onto a quick run down out of Coxhoe,turning left at the bottom for the horrible drag and awful road on the way to Sedgefield. Once into Sedgefield I turned again towards Fishburn and then I got a little lost taking a turning that I thought would have me heading for the A19 crossing to Elwick but insteaded ended up doubling back towards the A689 to Sedgefield. Quick turn around and I was back on track, climbed up towards Trimdon before a fast run in towards Hurworth Burn and over the A19 to Elwick.
Finished Cycle: 19 May 2011 18:53:16
Route: Elwick - Quarryington Hill - Sedgefield - Elwick
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/iEGinX
Import URL: http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110519-1702.kml
Ride Time: 1:46:36
Distance: 31.31 miles
Average: 17.62 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 36.86 miles/h
Ascent: 970 feet
I'm loving living further on of town the commute to and from work is fantastic now as well.
Fastest time to work so far today Elwick - Church Street in 14.29 (5 miles)
It's downhill all the way to work which means uphill all the way back!
Having just moved house last weekend i've been struugling to get out on the bike recently and my training in the gym has been none exsistent. Im away on a course this weekend as well so wont get a long ride in before the Richmond next week. Planning on taking part in the Richmond 5 Dale 100 Mile Sportive next Saturday as the last big training ride before the C2C.
So it was lovely night last night got straight home from work and got out as quick as I could.
I have now moved to Elwick village on the outskirts of Hartlepool so no longer have to cycle out of town through trafficwhich makes a massive difference.
Headed out from Elwick towards Hart via High Throston, onto Wingate and then towards Trimdon Station, From here I went alittle off plan and found myself with a stiff little climb up to Quarryington Hill that I have never done before, then onto a quick run down out of Coxhoe,turning left at the bottom for the horrible drag and awful road on the way to Sedgefield. Once into Sedgefield I turned again towards Fishburn and then I got a little lost taking a turning that I thought would have me heading for the A19 crossing to Elwick but insteaded ended up doubling back towards the A689 to Sedgefield. Quick turn around and I was back on track, climbed up towards Trimdon before a fast run in towards Hurworth Burn and over the A19 to Elwick.
Finished Cycle: 19 May 2011 18:53:16
Route: Elwick - Quarryington Hill - Sedgefield - Elwick
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/iEGinX
Import URL: http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110519-1702.kml
Ride Time: 1:46:36
Distance: 31.31 miles
Average: 17.62 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 36.86 miles/h
Ascent: 970 feet
I'm loving living further on of town the commute to and from work is fantastic now as well.
Fastest time to work so far today Elwick - Church Street in 14.29 (5 miles)
It's downhill all the way to work which means uphill all the way back!
Thursday, 28 April 2011
Big Ride In The Moors
Wednesday - 27/4/2011
The plan for the day was to cover 100 miles in prep for the C2C which is now fast approaching. The route was plotted & I was to rendezvous with James & Mike before heading out to Helmsley & Whitby before looping back to Middlesbrough, this would bring us in at just under 100 miles.
So I left Hartlepool in the car and headed to the Cycle Circuit in Boro to meet with the others for a 9am start. In the end we set off about 9.20am & headed out up Marton Road at a good pace. We turned right down Brass Castle Way & began making our way through the lanes to Hutton Rugby. I was leading the way the majority of the time with James & Mike tucking in my wheel. As we approached Hutton Rugby James hit the little climb first I was second & decided to jump out the saddle to attack it only for me to loose the chain a 1/3 of the way up. This is only a very short climb but difficult to get clipped back in and restarted on the bank, so I decided to descend to get turned round then up I went. Through Hutton Rugby and a left turn for Sexhow had us heading towards Carlton and the 7/10 difficulty rate Carlton Bank. None of us up until today were yet to make it up Carlton Bank in one go, would today be the day? We decided we would all climb at our on pace and re group at the tops of climbs. I lead the way spinning well up the gentle incline out the village and over the cattle grid. James was a little further back grinding away with Mike taking up the rear spinning at his own pace. (it should be noted that Mike is fairly new to cycling & has never experienced climbs like he would today ever before) Once over the cattle grid I jumped out the saddled and began bouncing on the peddles getting over the first sharp inclines, I was doing well, on my last attempt I had to stop twice splitting the climb into three. This time I was determined to get all the way up without stopping. But it wasn't to be Carlton Bank had beat me again, I managed to reached the right hand turn at the top but had to stop before the last kick up as my breathing & heart were sky high I was risking passing out. I pulled over at the side and waiting for James & Mike before tackling the last little section. James pulled in to join me for a break while Mike decided to continue on completing the climb at his first attempt in one go! Well done Mike, excellent climbing.
James and Mike getting up Carlton Bank to where I had stopped to wait!
Once up & over Carlton bank we stopped for a little rest at Lord Stones cafe, unfortunately it was closed so we had to make do with a couple of energy bars on the road side.
We were soon off again flying to Chop Gate at break neck speed and turning right to head for Helmsley. I had never previously cycled all the way to Helmsley before, having usually turned off for Hawnby but I now know I have been missing out. The road to Helmsley from Great Broughton is Fantastic. This road has it all speed, views to die for and a lovely climb of Newgate Bank. We flew along this road with myself and James pulling on the front and we were in Helmsley before we knew it breaking to get down to the 30mph speed limit!
Time for a quick stop to refuel on water and bars in Helmsley before setting of again.
James & Mike topping up with water in Helmsley centre.
So off we went again at a good pace heading through Kirbymoorside and onto Hutton le Hole. A long steady climb into Hutton le Hole had us pass a few other riders & also had ourselves strung out.
Once arriving at Hutton le Hole we pulled in and re grouped. Mike declared that he was starting to suffer as this was now one of the longest rides he has ever done if not the longest and toughest. We discussed cutting the ride short and heading straight for Castleton but I convinced them that there wasn't much climbing left, after all we would be descending Rosedale Chimney not having to climb it! How wrong I was to be...............
We hopped on our bikes and made light work of the sharp incline out of Hutton le Hole up towards Rosedale. At the top we were left with a choice of two roads. I opted for us to go left onto the road which stated Rosedale Chimney Bank Top 1:3 gradient not suitable for large vehicles! I though Rosedale would be easy as we would be descending the fearsome bank, however I didn't think abut having a long climb up the opposite side first. This climb was extremely energy sapping. Starting with a very steep gradient which eventually levels out but then just rolls up & up gently. By this point Mike was way off the back suffering. James was also feeling it and decided to wait for Mike to Catch up. I decided to plough on and eventually reached the car park at the Chimney Bank top.
Once again I waited and we regrouped at the car park before taking on the descent of the chimney! This was with out a doubt one of the most frightening couple of minutes I have gad on the bike! I honestly think I would rather have a crack at climbing the Chimney than have to go down it again.
Once down we again stopped to check where we would head from here.
It was decided that we should now look to pick the quickest / shortest route back everyone was starting feel it from all the climbing we had in our legs up to this point. So there would be no Whitby today and a new route was quickly thought up. We would head back towards Castleton before turning for Kildale, hopefully avoiding any more major climbs!
Unfortunately once out of the valley that Rosedale appears to sit in the road kicks up again onto the Moor! At this point I pushed on and found myself way out front and climbing well. I reached the top of the moor I sat up to wait from James & Mike to catch up.
Once back together it was obvious James and Mike were almost spent! I sat on the front trying to pull them along but they didn't appear to have much left in their legs. This was going to be a long difficult stretch back with nothing left in the tank!
We were eventually turning right at the T junction and onto the fast run into Castleton. Once at Castleton I discussed with the lads that I was pushed for time so had to push on to get back for work on the evening. So it was decided that if I felt ok I would push on and leave Mike & James to make it back at a steady pace.
I flew down Dibble Bridge and onto the long drag of a climb that goes on & on all the way up and over the Moor again before descending fast and then the last short climb of the day Crag Bank. By this time James & Mike were along way back and I was turning left and on the final push at speed through Kildale, Great Ayton & on towards Marton. Eventually arriving back at the Cycle Circuit.
What a fantastic day out this was, I believe Mike & James arrived in Great Ayton about 30 mins after me and stopped for a while to rest before making their way back into Middlesbrough Centre.
This was without a doubt one of the best days I have ever had in the moors! Loved every minute, even the frightening descents and painful climbs! A hell of slot of climbing done in one day! I would recommend this route to everyone, fantastic scenery and a real challenge.
Can't wait to get back out in The Moors again,
Stats from the ride:
Finished Cycle: 27 Apr 2011 15:07:16
Route: Boro - Helmsley - Whitby
Google Maps URL: http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110427-0907.kml
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/fvTgyv
Import URL: http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110427-0907.kml
Ride Time: 4:39:45
Stopped Time: 1:19:43
Distance: 68.68 miles
Average: 14.73 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 38.30 miles/h
Ascent: 3964 feet
Calories: 0
http://www.cyclemeter.com
- Posted using BlogPress
The plan for the day was to cover 100 miles in prep for the C2C which is now fast approaching. The route was plotted & I was to rendezvous with James & Mike before heading out to Helmsley & Whitby before looping back to Middlesbrough, this would bring us in at just under 100 miles.
So I left Hartlepool in the car and headed to the Cycle Circuit in Boro to meet with the others for a 9am start. In the end we set off about 9.20am & headed out up Marton Road at a good pace. We turned right down Brass Castle Way & began making our way through the lanes to Hutton Rugby. I was leading the way the majority of the time with James & Mike tucking in my wheel. As we approached Hutton Rugby James hit the little climb first I was second & decided to jump out the saddle to attack it only for me to loose the chain a 1/3 of the way up. This is only a very short climb but difficult to get clipped back in and restarted on the bank, so I decided to descend to get turned round then up I went. Through Hutton Rugby and a left turn for Sexhow had us heading towards Carlton and the 7/10 difficulty rate Carlton Bank. None of us up until today were yet to make it up Carlton Bank in one go, would today be the day? We decided we would all climb at our on pace and re group at the tops of climbs. I lead the way spinning well up the gentle incline out the village and over the cattle grid. James was a little further back grinding away with Mike taking up the rear spinning at his own pace. (it should be noted that Mike is fairly new to cycling & has never experienced climbs like he would today ever before) Once over the cattle grid I jumped out the saddled and began bouncing on the peddles getting over the first sharp inclines, I was doing well, on my last attempt I had to stop twice splitting the climb into three. This time I was determined to get all the way up without stopping. But it wasn't to be Carlton Bank had beat me again, I managed to reached the right hand turn at the top but had to stop before the last kick up as my breathing & heart were sky high I was risking passing out. I pulled over at the side and waiting for James & Mike before tackling the last little section. James pulled in to join me for a break while Mike decided to continue on completing the climb at his first attempt in one go! Well done Mike, excellent climbing.
James and Mike getting up Carlton Bank to where I had stopped to wait!
Once up & over Carlton bank we stopped for a little rest at Lord Stones cafe, unfortunately it was closed so we had to make do with a couple of energy bars on the road side.
We were soon off again flying to Chop Gate at break neck speed and turning right to head for Helmsley. I had never previously cycled all the way to Helmsley before, having usually turned off for Hawnby but I now know I have been missing out. The road to Helmsley from Great Broughton is Fantastic. This road has it all speed, views to die for and a lovely climb of Newgate Bank. We flew along this road with myself and James pulling on the front and we were in Helmsley before we knew it breaking to get down to the 30mph speed limit!
Time for a quick stop to refuel on water and bars in Helmsley before setting of again.
James & Mike topping up with water in Helmsley centre.
So off we went again at a good pace heading through Kirbymoorside and onto Hutton le Hole. A long steady climb into Hutton le Hole had us pass a few other riders & also had ourselves strung out.
Once arriving at Hutton le Hole we pulled in and re grouped. Mike declared that he was starting to suffer as this was now one of the longest rides he has ever done if not the longest and toughest. We discussed cutting the ride short and heading straight for Castleton but I convinced them that there wasn't much climbing left, after all we would be descending Rosedale Chimney not having to climb it! How wrong I was to be...............
We hopped on our bikes and made light work of the sharp incline out of Hutton le Hole up towards Rosedale. At the top we were left with a choice of two roads. I opted for us to go left onto the road which stated Rosedale Chimney Bank Top 1:3 gradient not suitable for large vehicles! I though Rosedale would be easy as we would be descending the fearsome bank, however I didn't think abut having a long climb up the opposite side first. This climb was extremely energy sapping. Starting with a very steep gradient which eventually levels out but then just rolls up & up gently. By this point Mike was way off the back suffering. James was also feeling it and decided to wait for Mike to Catch up. I decided to plough on and eventually reached the car park at the Chimney Bank top.
Once again I waited and we regrouped at the car park before taking on the descent of the chimney! This was with out a doubt one of the most frightening couple of minutes I have gad on the bike! I honestly think I would rather have a crack at climbing the Chimney than have to go down it again.
Once down we again stopped to check where we would head from here.
It was decided that we should now look to pick the quickest / shortest route back everyone was starting feel it from all the climbing we had in our legs up to this point. So there would be no Whitby today and a new route was quickly thought up. We would head back towards Castleton before turning for Kildale, hopefully avoiding any more major climbs!
Unfortunately once out of the valley that Rosedale appears to sit in the road kicks up again onto the Moor! At this point I pushed on and found myself way out front and climbing well. I reached the top of the moor I sat up to wait from James & Mike to catch up.
Once back together it was obvious James and Mike were almost spent! I sat on the front trying to pull them along but they didn't appear to have much left in their legs. This was going to be a long difficult stretch back with nothing left in the tank!
We were eventually turning right at the T junction and onto the fast run into Castleton. Once at Castleton I discussed with the lads that I was pushed for time so had to push on to get back for work on the evening. So it was decided that if I felt ok I would push on and leave Mike & James to make it back at a steady pace.
I flew down Dibble Bridge and onto the long drag of a climb that goes on & on all the way up and over the Moor again before descending fast and then the last short climb of the day Crag Bank. By this time James & Mike were along way back and I was turning left and on the final push at speed through Kildale, Great Ayton & on towards Marton. Eventually arriving back at the Cycle Circuit.
What a fantastic day out this was, I believe Mike & James arrived in Great Ayton about 30 mins after me and stopped for a while to rest before making their way back into Middlesbrough Centre.
This was without a doubt one of the best days I have ever had in the moors! Loved every minute, even the frightening descents and painful climbs! A hell of slot of climbing done in one day! I would recommend this route to everyone, fantastic scenery and a real challenge.
Can't wait to get back out in The Moors again,
Stats from the ride:
Finished Cycle: 27 Apr 2011 15:07:16
Route: Boro - Helmsley - Whitby
Google Maps URL: http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110427-0907.kml
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/fvTgyv
Import URL: http://share.abvio.com/57ff/6606/4b6c/b05a/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110427-0907.kml
Ride Time: 4:39:45
Stopped Time: 1:19:43
Distance: 68.68 miles
Average: 14.73 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 38.30 miles/h
Ascent: 3964 feet
Calories: 0
http://www.cyclemeter.com
- Posted using BlogPress
Saturday, 9 April 2011
Steady 50
Had a steady 50 miles out this morning with James & Mike. Met James at the new cycle circuit at 8.20am. Spent a little time tinkering with the bike as the gearing doesn't appear to be running correctly. Once sorted we set off and headed out to get Clay Bank out the way nice & early. Headed out through Marton, towards Stokesly & onto Great Broughton before hitting the slopes of Clay Bank. After a few months off training James took Clay Bank nice a steady as too not burn out too early. I was feeling good after all my early season climbing and I hit it hard. It's the best I have climbed Clay Bank & I still felt good at the top getting out the saddle to power over the last 100 metres or so! Quick refuel at the top and a U turn back down for a very Fast Decent. James recorded 45 mph on the decent pulling away from me a little. Quickly through Great Broughton & retracing our steps back to the circuit to meet up with Mike.
Mike joined us at the circuit & we set off again for a second spell this time out towards Yarm through Hemlington. We made quick work of getting to Leven Bank. Again I took to the front immediately got out the saddle and pressed on up the climb. This seemed a lot shorter than last time I remember it.
At the back of Yarm we made a left and headed through Kirklevington towards Crathorn. On from Crathorn towards Hutton Rugby where we had a quick 10 minutes to re group & re fuel. On the home stretch now back to the circuit through Seamer & Tanton Bends, right at Brass Castle Lane and a nice smooth ride behind the golf course. Left down Marton Road and back to the circuit.
Fantastic day out in the glorious sunshine & nice to see James back on the bike & Mike joining us for the first time. Well done boys.
Stats: 9 Apr 2011 12:03:50
Route: Marton Rd - Clay Bank & Yarm & Crathorn.
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/ghKG7t
Ride Time: 2:36:59
Distance: 46.39 miles
Average: 17.73 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 41.72 miles/h
Ascent: 1198 feet
Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Mike joined us at the circuit & we set off again for a second spell this time out towards Yarm through Hemlington. We made quick work of getting to Leven Bank. Again I took to the front immediately got out the saddle and pressed on up the climb. This seemed a lot shorter than last time I remember it.
At the back of Yarm we made a left and headed through Kirklevington towards Crathorn. On from Crathorn towards Hutton Rugby where we had a quick 10 minutes to re group & re fuel. On the home stretch now back to the circuit through Seamer & Tanton Bends, right at Brass Castle Lane and a nice smooth ride behind the golf course. Left down Marton Road and back to the circuit.
Fantastic day out in the glorious sunshine & nice to see James back on the bike & Mike joining us for the first time. Well done boys.
Stats: 9 Apr 2011 12:03:50
Route: Marton Rd - Clay Bank & Yarm & Crathorn.
Shortened Google Maps URL: http://j.mp/ghKG7t
Ride Time: 2:36:59
Distance: 46.39 miles
Average: 17.73 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 41.72 miles/h
Ascent: 1198 feet
Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
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