Day 7 - 273 days to go - Training

Hi,

In view of the distances required, I thought it best to start training properly as soon as possible - also to get a good idea of my fitness once I put hills into the distance cycling equation.

My Plan

Do a circular loop from Portsmouth, up Portsdown hill (good climb), drop down to Southwick, head along to Horndean, then Ramsdean into Petersfield via Stroud. Go through Peterfield and head to Buriton via Nurstead. cycle along side Queen Elizabeth Park towards Rowlands Castle and then back to Portsmouth via Havant - total distance 41 miles, time allocated 5 hours.

Well that was the plan!!!!!

The reality

I knew that the route was undulating.....I was unprepared. I can do hills...I have just chosen not to over the last couple of years. It was a big mistake thinking that I could still do 40 miles in 5 hours WITH hills. I had expected the climb up Portsdown hill to be the biggest - and I know I can do that. But that was just the first of many in the first 2 hours. In addition I took a wrong turn outside Horndean heading me towards Clanfield, which meant another climb back onto the road I was supposed to be on.

My progress was steady, but too slow to get me back home before dark, so I had to adjust my route. Just before Ramsdean I decided to take a route directly to Buriton missing out Petersfield altogether.

From Buriton (once the really really steep hill is climbed), the route really is pleasantly undulating, and although it was getting cold by then, it was a much easier last 12 miles, than the first part of the ride had been.

I got home just as it was getting dark, but with every muscle in my body aching - and having only ridden about 30 miles. Still, long or short loop, it's a great training ride for Vietnam, which is going to be quite hilly, and average between 40 & 50 miles a day.

Still I'll know for next time - Notes to self - leave earlier, get fitter, don't aim too high at the beginning.
I'll be on the full loop by spring - I hope

Marcia x