Who put that bridge there?

Why is it that just when you are getting back into regular cycling, something happens to knock you back a step (or rotation) or two!
Somehow, when driving my desk at work, I managed to twist my knee, which over a couple of hours, swelled up and became more and more painful. I wasn't too worried to start with, but as Saturday wore on, I had to admit that there was no way I could attempt the Loop to The Horseshoe Pass, a 100mile ride on Sunday.
I spent the day moping round the house, convinced my knee was getting better, until I tried to climb the Stairs.
Luckily, by Tuesday all seemed well and I was back out for the Tuesday evening spin.
The group that turned up were all up for a bit of hard work, so we did some loops of the lanes, which added up to 10 miles, and I was happy to do it in just over half an hour, nearly back to the pace I was on in the run up to the Ten Minutes of hell. We then rode on to Hoylake, where we practised riding techniques, pulling each other along, and then going to the back. It didn't take long for the group to get the hang of it and we decided to then ride up to Leasowe and back, with a big group effort on the way home. I couldn't believe we had nearly done 30 miles at the end, with a good average speed.
Thursday there was a larger group, so we did a more social spin out to Heswall then back to West Kirby and Hoylake, where we did a bit more practise of group riding. Another 25 miles in the bag.

Today the plan was to ride out to Chester via Wales, then back through the lanes with a loop round West Kirby. There was a large group too, all looking forward to the promised sunshine!
All was going well, even though the new Marsh path to Wales was covered in Sheep S**T, and I thought we had got away without getting lost, until I realised that I had taken us up a footpath, with a Footbridge over the railway!

I am getting used to having the micky taken out of me for my route planing now!

The rest of the ride was uneventful, not even a puncture to report! We got to Eureka just in time, before the rest of the clubs arrived, and I managed to have a chat with Anne about a ride I am planning for the Clubs Anniversary, more details to follow (when I have them!)

A Busy Eureka Cafe Today

After a refuel, we then looped back round the Wirral, via Capenhurst, Great and Little Sutton, Hooton, Raby Mere, Thornton Hough, Brimstage, Prenton, Moreton and West Kirby, where we treated ourselves to a climb up the hill from the Village then back to the Twelfth Man.

60 miles done without incident, all by 12 o'clock! 

 

Today saw the maiden ride of Derek's new Onix. That takes our total up to 4, maybe I should talk to Craig about custom club colours and a bit of Sponsorship! 

The only thing that didn't go right today was the weather! (Sunny after the ride doesn't count!)

It looks like I didn't bonk after all!!

Today is the first time I have swung my leg over the bike in 24 days! And after 12 miles I am absolutely shattered.
In my last post I thought I had suffered the dreaded Bonk on the way back from the Cafe, but it has transpired that I have had a virus. Not even Man Flu, but a proper virus that has knocked me sideways. I even had time off work, and received a little sympathy from Mrs Palefish (previously unheard of).
Because of this I had to miss the Onix Twitter ride with Rob Hayles, the first Onix ride that has enjoyed great weather! And I also had to miss the Polocini Winter Sprinter. Luckily there was a great Palefish Cycle Club representation at both events.
Anyway, I hope that I am now on the road to recovery, I am not going to go to mad too soon, so probably aim to get back to Eureka at the weekend, via the shortest flattest route!!
It is the Eddie Soens Memorial race this weekend, so I will be taking my 2 sons to watch the racing again, and hopefully get some great pictures. The past year has passed so quickly, I cant believe that the Ten Minutes of hell Tunnel Time Trial was on the 19th Feb last year. Frustratingly, I don't think I would be any faster this year!
Finally, the second edition of SPIN CYCLE magazine is now available, just click on the tab at the top of the page to head over to the magazine. Once again James and the team have produced a great read, with some stunning images.

Let Them Eat Cake Jubilee ride

Today I was proud to support my Friend Lou in riding the first Patisserie Cyclisme and Polocini Sportive, The "Let Them Eat Cake" Jubilee Ride.

The idea was to celebrate the Jubilee by riding a mile for each year of The Queen's reign, and also celebrate cake at the World Famous Eureka Cafe.

Myself and three Palefish Pals, Tim Jon and Dave ( it was also Dave and Jon's first Sportive) made our way to Nantwich for the Start at the Football Club. It seemed a bit wrong to be heading away from our half way destination ( Eureka is 10 miles from my house!)

Dave R, Jon, Dave C, Me, Tim

It never fails to surprise me how friendly cycling is. Dave R in the pic above parked next to us, and as you can see is another proud PC jersey owner. We got chatting and spent most of the ride out to Eureka as a group. Even more surprising was that Dave had to be back quickly as he was heading off to relatives in Ringwood, Hampshire, about 10 miles from where my Dad lives!! Small world. I even found out that Jon used to live in Salisbury! 

There looked to be a great turnout for Lou's first Sportive. The car park was full and the Q to sign in was long, but moved quickly. There to welcome us with a big smile were Lou and her Husband, who gave us our personalised numbers and a ticket for cake and Coffee at Eureka. The ticket was treated as if it was made of gold until it was well stashed with my cash in my pocket!!

After a Coffee we got the bikes and ourselves ready for the Grand Depart. It was quite a scene as we all waited for the off.

Once we were off it wasn't long until we were in the leafy winding Cheshire lanes. The only mishaps I had today were both in the first 5 miles! First of all, as I reached into my pocket to get my camera out to take the following pictures, I managed to loose one of my NEW cleat covers that I have only worn once, today in the car park before we left! At least they were not too expensive, and it wasn't my phone or money that jumped out of my pocket!!

Patisserie Cyclisme Sportive as far as the eye can see!

 Just after I had taken these Photo's, one handed on bumpy roads my second mishap occurred. It was a bit of a sill one that nearly had me off the bike and end my ride. To relive the pockets on my jersey, I have fitted my saddle bag back on the bike, and because there was Rain forecast for today I decided to use my Lezyne  Caddy Sac for my Phone and Camera. This meant I needed somewhere else to store my second spare tube, which I cunningly wedged between the saddle and the saddle bag! Big mistake. The tube fell from its non secure position into the rear cassette, almost locking the rear wheel!!! I was lucky, and paid the price by getting oily fingers early on in the ride!!!

Dave on his new Cervelo S5 and Jon on his new Onix

The route took us up to Delamere and then across to Chester via Mickle Trafford and round the back of Chester Zoo.
There was a wide range of bikes and riders today, but my winner of best team of the day went to the Forbes family, including the dog!!!

It was strange riding round the lanes we ride all the time, but with a different group of people. And even stranger turning into Eureka with a large group. 

We made good time on the first half of the ride with an Average of 18.5mph for the first 35 miles.

There to welcome us to Eureka there was a huge table filled with fantastic cake loveliness! 

The team, under the controlling eye of Anne, managed to serve a lot of thirsty and hungry riders, and a special mention must be made for the regulars of the cafe who took the extra long Q for coffee in good spirits.

While we were there I managed to have a Chat with Ken from Bioracer, who I have contacted about the possibility of a future project for Palefish, More to be revealed soon!!!

Mr and Mrs McCake (James and Lou) and Ken

 Q out of the door at Eureka

Never seen Bikes out on the Railings before!!

 After a chat with Sean and Ade (Wirral Mamils) and Phil from Cheshire Oaks Cycles, we headed off on our return journey. It was as we turned back towards Backford that we realised that we were in for a different ride back to Nantwich! We were hit by a 13mph headwind. Not the worst I have ridden in to but as sapping as climbing a hill constantly! I started to struggle with a bit of cramp in my thigh too. As I rode with Tim we were discussing why for two weeks in a row I had developed cramp after about 40 miles. The only thing we could think of is that over the winter we have been riding fast but short 25 mile rides, or hill sessions, but we haven't been out regularly for steady long rides. That has to change!! Time to plan some long Sunday rides for the lads!!

As we approached Beeston I began to become concerned that Alan, (Mr Polocini) had saved a sting in the tail for us in what up to now had been a fantastic, manageable route, by taking us up the hill and round the Castle. But luckily, as we arrived at the junction the yellow direction arrow was pointing right and not left, up the hill. Thanks Alan!!

Beeston Castle

 The run in to Nantwich from here was rolling lanes and now the cramp had passed it was at a more comfortable pace. There was a real jubilee feel as we passed through Villages that were covered in fluttering bunting and flags with parties set up in gardens and pub car parks.

When we got back to the Football Club in Nantwich we were treated to a great fill of Spanish Pork and rice, Coffee and Cake. There were some prizes up for grabs in a raffle and Jon won a bottle of English Whiskey

As I mentioned it was Jon and Dave's first Sportive, and It was also Jon's first big ride on his new Onix Azzuro. You can tell from the smile on his face it all went well!!!

 All that remains it to say a huge well done to Louise on what was a fantastic day, she should be proud that over 200 people came out to ride the Jubilee ride, and to Alan for a fantastic route, well signed on nice lanes.
The blog today was brought to you whilst sipping coffee from my new mug!!

Today's Ride

Sun, Sea, Sand and Onix!

It is amazing how the sun encourages people to get out on their bikes. Tonight's ride promised to be interesting as Tim was going to be riding his Onix for the first time, and to add to the fun we were joined by a couple of new faces, and some familiar ones we hadn't seen for a while. I think tonight was the best turnout we have had for an evening ride so far, with 11 of us meeting at the 12th Man.

We rode out towards the Irby Mill to meet up with Noel, who is riding the Pennine Way with Paul over the weekend. Watch this space for a special guest blog from Paul on his return.
As we passed the Pub we spotted Ian and his son, so we decided to ride with them for a while. Luke was keen to show any challengers his wheel, which he did a couple of times!

After we left Ian and Luke, the two new riders chose to peel off as well. We rode on to Lower Heswall and then round and back up Thurstaston Road where I decided to have a David Bailey moment and take some over the shoulder photos of the lads climbing the hill!

At the top of the Hill we waited to regroup and have another opportunity to ogle at the Onix!

After a blast from Heswall to Caldy we climbed up Dave B's favourite hill, Kings Drive. Whilst at the top waiting to regroup I decided to ride down first and then capture the lads descending the only Hairpin on Wirral!!

I don't think David Bailey or Steven Spielberg have anything to worry about!!

After Climbing up Village Road and a great descent into West Kirby, setting off the 30mph speed sign, we stopped on the prom for me to get a few more snaps of the Onix.

Skinny Profile

Happy Tim!

The rest of the ride was at a good pace, with no more photo interruptions, along to Moreton and back through Upton to the 12th Man. Tim couldn't stop smiling and commented on how quick and responsive the Onix is, and how easy it is to put the power down and accelerate. I think I may spend a lot of time looking at his rear wheel in future rides!!

We hope to be riding every Tuesday and Thursday evening, leaving the 12th Man at 7.45. Everyone is welcome, the more the merrier!

A rest is as good as a change!

Firstly, sorry for not writing anything for a couple of weeks. I have had things to do in the real world, like applying for my own job! (thankfully I am good enough to continue to do it), and spend some time with the family, as I realised that I have ridden my bike every Saturday, except three, for the last year! So as I was feeling a little off colour I missed the club ride and went to Anglesey with the family for a great weekend (including a little fall off the wagon with a couple of Peroni) which I really enjoyed. My niggling lack of energy has developed into a full blown head cold, so I didn't go out on Tuesday with the lads. Instead of my usual 100miles per week I have managed 78miles in two weeks.
Other news in my cycling world from the last couple of weeks. I was dealt a reality check last weekend. Tim, who I rode the Rapha ride with, had a massive off when he was riding in the Lakes. His front tube failed at 25mph and he hit the tarmac pretty hard. It was lucky he had a helmet and gloves on, as I'm not sure the outcome would have been as favourable if he hadn't. He suffered severe cuts and road rash to the right side of his face, and has also been suffering from the cycling equivalent of whip lash. Paul and I went to see him on Monday and it certainly brings everything into perspective. I am happy to say he is well on the mend, and hopefully he will be back on the bike next week.
Which bike Tim will ride is yet to be seen. My constant talk about Onix bikes has finally worn him down. On his way to Scotland yesterday, he stopped off at the new Onix Showrooms in Blackburn, and instantly fell for the Rob Hayles Pro. I don't normally like to say "I told you so" but I did tell him they were great bikes, and he now agrees!! What makes this all the more interesting is that Tim is the second person from our group to visit Onix this week! Jon went up earlier in the week for a fitting and is eagerly awaiting delivery of his Azzuro, which was recently reviewed on the Channel 5 Gadget show and received 5 stars.




I'm sure when the lads get their bikes I will regret recommending Onix as I see their rear wheels disappearing  off into the distance!!

Today's ride was down to me to organise as Zel is racing tomorrow. As I am still full of the green stuff, I decided to offer a Cafe and back ride to Eureka. I am not the only person who is under the weather, so the reaction to a cafe ride was good. The shop soon filled up with riders, including the Vita Race team, which was nice as I haven't seen the lads for a while. We all decided to ride out to Eureka together and then anyone who wasn't in the Lemsip club could carry on.
There were 16 of us who left the shop. The weather looked good and the wind was at our backs. It didn't take long for things to literately take a turn for the worse! We always try to keep off the main roads and in the country lanes, which is great until you get near a farm! As we headed towards Thornton Hough we encountered a trail of slurry across the road on the junction of a right hand turn, with the added obstacle of a large Massey Ferguson! We all picked our lines, and the oncoming traffic was kind enough to let us turn, unfortunately for one of the group it didn't go to plan. Dave's front wheel picked up a little too much Muck and that was enough to make the front of the bike slide and he was down, heavily on the road. Luckily he was ok to carry on and his bike wasn't damaged, but we did make him ride a little behind us as the smell was a little overpowering!!!
We got to the Cafe without further incident and the race team then headed off to do some faster miles.

Dave smelling a little better and recovering with a well earned Coffee 

The group refuelling at Eureka Cafe 

It was nice to see a flyer for the upcoming Jubilee ride that is being organised by Patisserie Cyclisme and Polocini it promises to be a great ride, 60 miles from Nantwich to Eureka and back, with the promise of some great cake and coffee along the way!! There are a few of us doing it so why not sign up and join in the fun?

There are also a group of us doing the Broken Spoke on the 27th May. The route is quite challenging, if like me, you don't like hills, but it should be a great day. There is still time to sign up....what are you waiting for?

The ride back from Eureka was into the wind, as usual, but we meandered our way through the lanes, making sure we hit all the climbs Zel takes us on, and I was surprised to see when I got home, that I had got a Personal Record on one of my Nemesis climbs! Maybe being ill helps climbing performance? Or maybe it is the Beetroot juice working. I have been drinking it daily, even though I haven't been on the bike, and it really seems to be making a difference to my climbing. My legs can climb for longer without getting the "burn" and my recovery from sustained exertion is getting quicker. Even though it does taste nasty, it is working. I would recommend giving it a try.

When we got back to the shop we all signed up for the 2013 edition of Vita Cycles "Ten Minutes of hell"
Next years event promises to be just as good as this years, with a larger field that will be split into age groups. Time to start training I think with some Sunday tunnel time!!

Finally good luck to Zel in his race tomorrow, also good luck to Dave B and Dave C in their 10k run tomorrow and Jon at the Triathlon he is competing in.

Today's ride details

Vita at the 51st Eddie Soens Memorial Race

Instead of riding myself this morning, I decided to take the boys to a real bike race. Paul joined me with his two lads, and we met Ian and Carla and their lads there. The Future of Team Vita all together!!

If they don't like cycling there is always base jumping!

The Weather wasn't too kind at the beginning of the day. When we arrived at Aintree the rain was getting harder, and it was pretty cold. I felt for the 260 riders as they lined up at the start line.

Vita were represented by Andy and Steve today. It was Andy's first ever race, a big one to chalk up as the field included some of the country's top teams and riders. 

Andy (220) on the start line

Steve however is a seasoned rider and had a real race face on when we saw him lining up.

Start of the first group

The riders were split into 4 Groups and were set off at minute intervals. Starting with Cat4 and juniors and finishing with the Elite riders.

First group are off

And the rest are off.

The first few laps were pretty grim!

As the race went on the conditions started to clear

The pace was furious, Steve has told me that his average was 28mph and he reached a top speed of 38mph, on a flat course! I think this video shows the pace of the pack well.

Andy did fantastically to last just over an hour into the race.

Steve riding well in the pack. (Black helmet and top with 3/4 bibs.)

After 1 hour and 40minutes and 57 seconds the suffering was over and Russ Downing, Endura Racing, crossed the line as the winner with his team mates Scott Thwaites and local rider Jonathan McEvoy in second and third giving Endura Racing a clean sweep.

Russ Downing

After a warm down and a quick clean up, the Three team mates stepped up to the podium.

The Boys were made up to have their photo taken with Russ.

It was a great race, and a good start to the season for Endura, and Vita with Steve finishing 118th. 

Here is a link to a much more comprehensive report from British Cycling.

I have put these photo's in to show that cycling isn't an easy sport. The faces of these riders show how much determination and effort go into riding "an easy bike!"

Dan Whelen of Omnipex Bio Racer Team and his Onix Aurious

There was a lot of talk about the possibility of either Paul or Me entering the race next year! The good thing about riding a bike is that you can live the dream and have a chance to give it a go against the Pro's, but if any of us are going to give the 52nd Eddie Soens race a go we need to start training now!!

Full Photo album here.