Training Log Archive: Thraws

Three Warblington and Woodmancote laps then one of Summersdale and city to get past 75 miles. Was only going to do two, as I'd spent months getting ready to ride today, regardless of the weather, but the breeze was dropping and sun coming out at the end of the second so decided to add a third after a sandwich and a cup of tea. Pretty tired by the finish but could have squeezed out another 25. Antique bike performed perfectly, even pulling me out of one almost-spill. It was actually a nice day for a ride in the end. The weather forecast - heavy rain and westerly gales - was simply wrong. The Met Office had always said there was just 'the potential', but the weather warning meant the Velo had no choice but to cancel. My frustration must be nothing compared to what the organisers feel. I really hope they put it on again. Would have been totes amazing.

Thraves is back! Planned to run this anyway, even if Velo had gone ahead, as I've been feeling so good. Is it the leafy green veg and electrolyte diet I've been on for the cycling? Or what? Anyway, thought something was on. Felt light and bouncy jogging to start, minimal warm up, started steady then eased back to comfortable. Didn't look at watch till end of lap 2 and 13.45 suggested I could finally get under 21 if I kept it up. Really pleased with 7 min final lap and the feel of speed which seems to have returned. Almost consolation for Velo cancellation.

Wasn't going to cycle today, but ...

Well, I'm peaking. But is it happening?

Four days to go. Wind practice for the weekend.

Six days to go. Old timer cyclist at Waitrose says, 'I haven't seen handlebar changers in ages. Back in the day when I used to race.' Made my bike sound proper vintage. And it's taking on the century on Sunday! Gulp.

C • Vintage bike 3