tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67457362198198101942024-02-20T01:36:44.719+00:00Shoestring RacingBlogging my passion for riding and racing bikes...paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-18616533404839029252015-07-19T17:34:00.000+01:002015-07-19T17:34:05.112+01:00Swift Industries Campout 2015<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/133263873" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe> <p><a href="https://vimeo.com/133263873">Swift Campout 2015</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user4172874">Paul errington</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-4666769702865092142015-05-31T12:45:00.003+01:002015-05-31T16:33:59.298+01:00A bike built for distanceMy recent day out riding the Mosstrooper Audax gave me further opportunity to play with my Shand Stoater.<br />
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With a potential ride time of around 14 hours and my usual desire to be as self sufficient as possible I added a few bags to trial working toward what I think will be a lightweight multi day set up.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.shandcycles.com/" target="_blank">Shand</a> was always built with distance in mind so even in its most basic of guises without luggage it is still very comfortable and importantly feels very efficient. The Ultegra CX gearing and hydraulic brakes go some way to contributing to the overall feel of the bike with the <a href="http://www.geneticbikes.com/home.php" target="_blank">Genetic</a> bars and <a href="http://www.brooksengland.com/" target="_blank">Brooks</a> saddle affording comfortable contact points.<br />
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In long day mode I added a small <a href="http://alpkit.com/" target="_blank">Alpkit </a>frame bag which held my <a href="https://www.truemountain.com/" target="_blank">True Mountain</a> waterproof and spare socks and gloves. Then for food a top tube bag and stem mounted bag were added for ease of accessing food on the fly.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.mackworkshop.com/" target="_blank">Mack Workshop</a> tool roll mounted under my Brooks Cambium C15 held the tools and spares required for a long day.<br />
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Unsure how long the day may take I added my <a href="http://supernova-lights.com/" target="_blank">Supernova</a> front and rear dynamo lights to ensure I wouldn't be caught out by darkness.<br />
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The Garmin out front on the bars ensured that I was always on course and the switch to <a href="http://www.halowheels.com/" target="_blank">Halo</a> Twin Rail Tyres in 29c width made my progress feel always quick.<br />
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At the end of the day on reflection I had rarely used the frame bag and top tube bag and to some degree they had been middle obstructive in an efficient pedalling stroke so the next course of action is to trial load at opposing ends of the bike with a bar bag and larger saddle bag with a view that for multi days then some micro panniers can be added to the front of the bike for sleeping and cooking gear.paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-24649526777770938392015-05-31T12:28:00.000+01:002015-05-31T12:28:39.442+01:00The Mosstrooper ... a 300km audax sampling the borders of England and ScotlandAfter Rovaniemi 150 so early in the year I hadn't planned out what the rest of the year may hold for my cycling so in an effort to get some longer miles on some new roads I went to the <a href="http://www.aukweb.net/" target="_blank">Audax UK</a> website for inspiration.<br />
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Luckily in a Paris-Brest-Paris year there are plenty longer rides to choose from and even luckier <a href="http://northern-audax.org.uk/" target="_blank">Northern Audax</a> were running a series of PBP qualifying distances.<br />
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The Mosstrooper is a 300km ride starting and finishing in Ponteland only 15km from my home so seemed an ideal day out to meet new people and at least 100km of the ride would be on roads unfamiliar to me.<br />
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Shand packed up the night before an early start saw me riding out to the sign on.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/129345473" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <br />
<a href="https://vimeo.com/129345473">mosstrooper</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user4172874">Paul errington</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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The riding was excellent ... the riders I met both friendly and as always interesting people. An Audax is an excellent opportunity for socialising and exploring and I aim to continue to expand my Audax experience.paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-23205415405450030112015-04-16T09:07:00.000+01:002015-04-16T09:07:27.221+01:00From Berwick to Tynemouth ... a day out at the beach.I was born and raised in the North East of England, Newcastle to be precise though anyone who knows me wouldn't place me as a geordie with my softened accent from varying stints in other parts of the UK.<br />
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One thing I was always certain to do when I found myself not living in the North East is when visiting my parents I would always drive to Newcastle via the Tyne Bridge and before visiting anyone else I would take a drive to the coast to take in the beaches and coastal vistas.<br />
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The coastline in the North East of England is spectacular and sparsely populated, even it seems at times rarely visited. For a long time the idea of a coastal ride from Berwick Upon Tweed back to Tynemouth has sat dormant, suitably fat bikes came and went but the opportunity never arose to get the ride done.<br />
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During the winter while training on my Ari fully loaded in wet and cold weather the idea of a warm, dry and sunny day at the beach was a motivator and after getting back from Rovaniemi 150 a date for the 'Day at the beach' was set.<br />
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It wasn't too hard to convince Richard Elsdon of the merits of this ride and so we found ourselves on a Friday after work on a train to Berwick fat bikes packed as light as we dare with just enough to stay out one night and then a long following day back home.<br />
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The night prior to the ride was summed by petrol station dining followed by a farmers field bivi whilst taking in some excellent beach riding at dusk from near Berwick to Holy Island.<br />
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The following day after a brief spell of cold and rain the weather opened up to the vision I had had during those winter training rides .. dry (mostly), warm (ish) and very sunny.<br />
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The ride didn't disappoint and I think stands out as one of the best one day rides I have done to date and it started a mere 80 miles from my front door.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/27xd-KZ1neg" width="560"></iframe>paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-74651553162072869612015-04-01T10:13:00.000+01:002015-04-01T14:01:39.174+01:00Shandalous ... Shaking down the Stoater ;)<b>The ride</b><br />
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What makes a bike ride well ?<br />
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I am sure there are many frame builders and industry types out there that can select a genre of riding and reel off the must have geometry and other small design subtleties that can play their part in devising the overall feel of a bike as its ridden.<br />
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As much as I appreciate the care and attention that goes in to manufacturing a quality frame I would be kidding myself if I thought I could hold any kind of meaningful conversation on the design and engineering that went in to its build.... I recognise form but struggle with technical function.<br />
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For me a bike just feels right or it doesn't ... my care and attention in build usually affords the culmination of a well thought out selection of parts that form a bike. The fit is generally based on a bikes predecessors. However, feel has already been predefined by the gods, the gods being those who command a frame design software package or better still a tig welder and keen eye for detail.<br />
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The gods at Shand sent me my Stoater back in November ... the build was started but then the pressure was on to finish a bike for Rovaniemi 150 and the Stoater sat 90% finished.<br />
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Soon after getting back from the Rovaniemi 150 the Stoater was finally afforded the last few parts to completion and then all that remained was a test ride.<br />
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I guess as most people I have a very familiar local loop that is the test bed for every new off road orientated bike, a nice mix of singletrack, gravel and road heading out to the coast to take in the views.<br />
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My first impression was this was a bike I had ridden before. There was a distinct familiarity, an immediate comfort with the Shand, not just literal but also the way in which it allowed me to relax in to the ride like a bike I had covered 1000's of miles on though I had barely covered a few.<br />
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As the ride progressed transitioning from trail to a road section and the bikes sureness under loose dirt then became ease of progress on road. Unhindered by the resistance of the 38c tyres on tarmac there was a great feeling of efficiency.<br />
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I was and am suitably impressed by the Stoater, the potential for a bike that covers both trail and tarmac with ease is huge and now it seems my only limitation with this bike will be my time to get out and adventure on it.<br />
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<b>The build</b><br />
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The Stoater is a bike made for on and off road and generous portions of each so my build had to reflect that.<br />
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Shimano Ultegra CX groupset to give a range of gears that would never see me wanting even when the bike was fully loaded and the path climbing up above me. As a disc brake bike I chose the non groupset specific Shimano mechanical gear and hydraulic brake road set up.<br />
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Halo Vapour 29er wheels paired with Halo twin rail 38c tyres. This combination is tried and tested and the same set up was used at Trans Iowa. Reliability and comfort.<br />
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Brooks cambium C15 saddle. This Brooks saddle being synthetic means that its perfect for on and off road while still remaining the now legendary Brooks level of comfort.<br />
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Many more miles are to be covered and blogs to be written afforded by this bike .. loving it already.<br />
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Special thanks to <a href="http://www.mackworkshop.com/shop/product/tool-roll" target="_blank">Mack Workshop</a> for the excellent tool roll saddle bag.<br />
<br />paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-41619986197284949092015-03-02T20:48:00.002+00:002015-03-02T20:48:10.856+00:00Rovaniemi 150 .. The eventMy personal goal for every year is to find at least one event that takes me somewhere new, introduces me to new people and offers a challenge I need to work and prepare for.<br />
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A number of years ago I completed the Arrowhead 135 winter race in the US, I rode a single speed non fat wheeled bike 135 miles in the snow on snowmobile tracks and it took me over 30 hours. At the time I imagine I thought it was an experience I had no desire to replicate but the lure of a snowy landscape and the vast expanses of the wild is strong.<br />
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Not wanting to repeat an event I had already completed and not quite ready for the longer events the US has to offer I chose to stay within Europe and the only real winter race outside of the US and Canada, The Rovaniemi 150 in Finland.<br />
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Rovaniemi being the official home of Santa Claus it was not a hard sell to convince Grace this was a great opportunity to have a winter holiday with a small race thrown in on the deal.<br />
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<b>Rovaniemi lies just 6km or so south of the Arctic Circle</b></div>
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First stop after arriving in Rovaniemi late the night before was a trip to the Santa Claus village ... just inside the Arctic Circle we all paid a visit to Santa and put in our requests for new bikes and the latest cycling gear for the forthcoming Christmas, never hurts to plan in advance.</div>
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<b>A combined petting zoo and public transport stop</b></div>
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After our trip to see Santa the afternoon was filled with race briefings and pre race nerves. In fact I don't remember an event when I have felt so anxious beforehand.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmVP6EvHTlkftEVEs_fs_SKNCExalhvMJ4W04i_gFT6Hlau2tLzvueUUHT_J8pqkkaucfEa1cHHDOJEwDcNJVqCmzxDwU7fSr0_smc67X4gr9xr_OtFeJB1KfreWibHl7uMeVg_g-5c8/s1600/IMG_3097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsmVP6EvHTlkftEVEs_fs_SKNCExalhvMJ4W04i_gFT6Hlau2tLzvueUUHT_J8pqkkaucfEa1cHHDOJEwDcNJVqCmzxDwU7fSr0_smc67X4gr9xr_OtFeJB1KfreWibHl7uMeVg_g-5c8/s1600/IMG_3097.jpg" height="320" width="295" /></a></div>
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<b>Always good when the bike arrives in the same shape it left home</b></div>
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Bike assembled before loading up the kit and heading out for a quick spin the night before down to the start area on the frozen river just outside the city.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUIai2_bpm-XHiqeZGHlCemNl0mJEn1yob8DRXFeJ6OS3gA62qR-dicu6UOfJ4AXXZC9z1Wzpy61s8PxVuE-xIM4cCVtapw4q5IVsBNdhTCYXbFddcB8Sagc9uRBVE15AhyphenhyphenLjjrK2_Ps/s1600/P1040142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUIai2_bpm-XHiqeZGHlCemNl0mJEn1yob8DRXFeJ6OS3gA62qR-dicu6UOfJ4AXXZC9z1Wzpy61s8PxVuE-xIM4cCVtapw4q5IVsBNdhTCYXbFddcB8Sagc9uRBVE15AhyphenhyphenLjjrK2_Ps/s1600/P1040142.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Apprehensively awaiting the start</b></div>
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Once at the start and ready to go the nerves settled and it was simply a case of turning pedals, drinking and eating ... life at its simplest and often most happiest.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9uoDzsg2yutJ_NPyMXgWsosmqGZN8o9mnq-8VWiBpRCL6E8efVO0BkrBkeoZoJd1PR4egJ3lG4EXJ85K_G0WKXc9DJEhbYkywGYE4CX8QgObKKWsEWHndhpNlSs5pI4_O_scMzNAY5k/s1600/P1040160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ9uoDzsg2yutJ_NPyMXgWsosmqGZN8o9mnq-8VWiBpRCL6E8efVO0BkrBkeoZoJd1PR4egJ3lG4EXJ85K_G0WKXc9DJEhbYkywGYE4CX8QgObKKWsEWHndhpNlSs5pI4_O_scMzNAY5k/s1600/P1040160.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Flat out from the off the going was fast up the river</b></div>
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It would be fair to say the start was brisk, the leading 6 had gapped the field by a fair distance by the first checkpoint and we were all then left behind strung out searching for a happier more sustainable pace. I found company along the first river section in the form of a wheel to follow though due to the pace no words were exchanged. As we traversed the woodland section between river and lake my lack of time on the bike slowed me on the descents and as we started the long 11km section along the lake I was caught and joined by Tom Marvin, we both shared the work along this exposed part of the course. At the far end we parted ways as Tom stopped to adjust his load, then I rode alone.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGm2Aavw0gqr06fWPERSiMfXI3Uc_UqA-DcIsGGKE1GQIKr8PCcounL5mnQTYn0uDD4Zlv7Z_-__reUT5P5n2wDTbO7KRnsLwlgz4DjJMJu9mg3rJP8EoSeKcec6d42Vh85zjDhW-zEww/s1600/10981645_807393692671454_6805848100746229265_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGm2Aavw0gqr06fWPERSiMfXI3Uc_UqA-DcIsGGKE1GQIKr8PCcounL5mnQTYn0uDD4Zlv7Z_-__reUT5P5n2wDTbO7KRnsLwlgz4DjJMJu9mg3rJP8EoSeKcec6d42Vh85zjDhW-zEww/s1600/10981645_807393692671454_6805848100746229265_n.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Large bodies of water to be traversed seemingly never ending</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVpJGNkThQSdQjpuwoNEjXwP95XSgvQAjschBoyAUXbjucJulrZfCp1DkFFtFEexkZFGRbpz7r8tFv_HbiJgPpEI-ZKxNupdZLMApI1DTDahpjT6CBxNZbLoKWFbMGQtuV2TEeEe4XCg/s1600/11025781_809187072492116_6817602984725596042_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVpJGNkThQSdQjpuwoNEjXwP95XSgvQAjschBoyAUXbjucJulrZfCp1DkFFtFEexkZFGRbpz7r8tFv_HbiJgPpEI-ZKxNupdZLMApI1DTDahpjT6CBxNZbLoKWFbMGQtuV2TEeEe4XCg/s1600/11025781_809187072492116_6817602984725596042_n.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Always happy when following heavy snowmobile tracks over frozen water</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrTvD-0eThPyd-2TYcbRPLwYKWKG6g9AT0eBGx9oMQc6jsiOJtoHdCilTcOSKzFr8-QyyuaRrWez2Xieck_Y3rSL5RPBu1K1NYPNBdFTzgkWq1ongtYFAYQ-qp_jgV6icjBSAsa7JynA/s1600/11034238_809188202492003_2080974959305410960_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrTvD-0eThPyd-2TYcbRPLwYKWKG6g9AT0eBGx9oMQc6jsiOJtoHdCilTcOSKzFr8-QyyuaRrWez2Xieck_Y3rSL5RPBu1K1NYPNBdFTzgkWq1ongtYFAYQ-qp_jgV6icjBSAsa7JynA/s1600/11034238_809188202492003_2080974959305410960_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Finland is not flat</b></div>
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The whole middle section of the course, some 100km or so I guess, was just 'management' ... managing temperature, food, mental state of mind. I had no desire to look at my watch or note anywhere easily accessible the distances to the checkpoints etc so I would not get distracted or demotivated if progress seemed slow. When I found another riders annotated route map on the ground directly after a checkpoint I couldn't help but look and was surprised to see I had already covered the first 60km without too much trauma. Then when I reached the 70km checkpoint in 6 hours I knew that I would disaster aside finish on the same day of starting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeat8RAvYdkXanUEg0t-yfgRgHbiIKiQXi4Xgyq2HwTcQcDJkd-V1aXaHAgnNY3bE1Xv2EegjzTlH7TnegA0_JYPkXWCFdLGzISpx9ZpzT9XOhAW1C0_K9Qctrkicz3rN9djxZPsxssoI/s1600/10250216_809190579158432_3254308763050949260_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeat8RAvYdkXanUEg0t-yfgRgHbiIKiQXi4Xgyq2HwTcQcDJkd-V1aXaHAgnNY3bE1Xv2EegjzTlH7TnegA0_JYPkXWCFdLGzISpx9ZpzT9XOhAW1C0_K9Qctrkicz3rN9djxZPsxssoI/s1600/10250216_809190579158432_3254308763050949260_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Happy in my own world</b></div>
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The section directly after the 80km checkpoint was the most prolonged push of the course and the frustration of slow progress set in, just being able to turn the smallest gear your bike has to offer feels infinitely better than the slow trudge of humping a loaded fat bike across soft snow.</div>
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The long road section promised wasn't as long as hoped though passing through a village gave a taste of civilisation and extra incentive to get the course done.</div>
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In general the riding was slow and steady but every now and then we were treated to brief sections of flowing fun descents, the final of which put us out directly on to another frozen lake which would be traversed before the final wooded section and the final push for the finish along the frozen river upon which our journey had begun many hours before.</div>
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Crossing the final frozen lake I caught and passed the first rider I had seen for hours. I had a few hours previously closed in on a flashing red light only to watch it ride away from me again though I was content in my own little world and not too fussed about sharing it while out on the trail.</div>
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As we exited the last wooded section on to the start/finish river the effort was increased, I was soon back in to the last checkpoint and a quick refill of my water just in case. As I left the checkpoint I could see another blinking red light in the distance though no matter how hard I pushed the pedals it never seemed to get any closer.</div>
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It took what seemed an age to get to the final bridge before leaving the river and riding the short distance to the hotel that housed the finish.</div>
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As I entered the hotel looking for the official line Grace was waiting for me, having tracked my progress via my SPOT tracker she had decided to welcome me in, a great way to finish the event.</div>
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I had covered the course in around 14.5 hours ... 10 hours quicker than I had anticipated ... an hour quicker than last years winner and 4 hours slower than this years winner. Though this event for me was never about the numbers and what I came for was an experience and I had certainly had that.</div>
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The event in summary was fantastic. The course well marked and the checkpoints well staffed with helpful supportive individuals with just enough resource (water) to help you on your way but not encourage you to linger.</div>
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It was a pleasure to meet and socialise with all the cool people who came to take part in this event and I hope I will see them at many more events in the future.</div>
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As I stated elsewhere I was hoping this event would suck and I would suffer hard to give me the catalyst to finally extinguish the desire to do these events but unfortunately the whole experience was positive and now my only problem is decided where and what next :)</div>
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Thanks to <a href="http://www.rovaniemi150.com/" target="_blank">Rovaniemi 150</a> for the event and some of the images used above.</div>
<br />paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-7594060919422049422015-03-02T20:48:00.001+00:002015-03-02T20:48:04.717+00:00Rovaniemi 150 ... The gearThere are some riders who love to hear about the emotion, toil and physical exertion endured during an event .. they want to feel how it was to be amongst the landscape and get a taste for the highs and lows. However, some just simply love the gear ! <br />
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There was a whole host of equipment choices that needed to be made prior to the Rovaniemi 150 and I have tried to capture some of the major ones here as well as at the same time acknowledging some of the companies that helped me out.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.aricycles.com/" target="_blank">Ari Cycles</a></b><br />
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Ari was a man I was lucky enough to meet while travelling through Israel last year at another event. I was given the tour of his work space and it was clear at that point should I ever look to have a frame built he would be the man to build it for me. The frameset I eventually had made by Ari Cycles embodied so many small details I had carried around in my head for years while riding other brands and it offered me not only the ability to run the fat tyres for Rovaniemi but also to switch out to any other format I saw fit in the future. Even fully loaded the bike rode and handled beautifully the whole event.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFIz87KZTWWwKwiteW-KRqlokhVJUV0wKyMTCzZyabUp3UgoAwNfbHlujSr1PiR6cwMpgAx88QwAW_7d6aApjoFmP_IrFCklt-sG8u2zh1HXmiDdj8oHPixBr0JxgCWdGfxSvABBnaemc/s1600/IMG_3097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFIz87KZTWWwKwiteW-KRqlokhVJUV0wKyMTCzZyabUp3UgoAwNfbHlujSr1PiR6cwMpgAx88QwAW_7d6aApjoFmP_IrFCklt-sG8u2zh1HXmiDdj8oHPixBr0JxgCWdGfxSvABBnaemc/s1600/IMG_3097.jpg" height="320" width="295" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.halowheels.com/" target="_blank">Halo Wheels and Tyres</a></b><br />
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My association with Halo Wheels came as a by product from working with another brand distributed by the same distribution company, Ison. Over the last 2 years I have raced on Halo wheels and tyres and to date have never been let down or left disappointed with the product ... From Trans Iowa to Holyland Bikepacking Challenge Halo has always got me round safely.<br />
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Prior to the event I was lucky enough to get the Tundra 80mm rims and Nanuk 4" tyres ... a good balance of weight and flotation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM7kcGciuKlnSVGBs9nGuMj39nZLkeBa2zcoxWposaCgd17Twhuv38YqyArN9A6bdWnVqViHA4pUHtlpTE8oo7J0j75PN_n01Tobm2IfMgeF2fKYY4AJF-8sEY7eTs_HrOwnU4aCuT5zc/s1600/DSC02901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM7kcGciuKlnSVGBs9nGuMj39nZLkeBa2zcoxWposaCgd17Twhuv38YqyArN9A6bdWnVqViHA4pUHtlpTE8oo7J0j75PN_n01Tobm2IfMgeF2fKYY4AJF-8sEY7eTs_HrOwnU4aCuT5zc/s1600/DSC02901.JPG" height="205" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://todayscyclist.co.uk/mxz30.html" target="_blank">Lake Shoes</a></b><br />
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It would be fair to say and an odd statement that I like my feet ... they afford me both balance while stationary and propel me forward when I want to move .. without them life would be hugely different. so I was keen to make sure they were finished the event in a fully serviceable condition. When choosing a pair of SPD compatible boots that would endure the potentially low temperatures I would face at the event I didn't hold back and contacted Moore and Large to get hold of a pair of Lake MX303 boots. These boots have some serious heritage and pedigree being used by many cold weather event racers in the past. My feet were never cold and they remained perfectly intact so that in my mind is a flawless performance by Lake. Even walking for many kilometres during sections of the route they were comfortable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpSk35lCmpDZCoi4mY-1ZbsikEwZc5ZHBM4bvzn0hR9-lb_2igL5dR1a47uh4uaVKRXP7IAhYuN5dyjSvCv5TVSXcAQy-xjD6LELcCFeROuErf7seTELYAa9O3WB2aoWIE6cHvnezvSYE/s1600/IMG_2977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpSk35lCmpDZCoi4mY-1ZbsikEwZc5ZHBM4bvzn0hR9-lb_2igL5dR1a47uh4uaVKRXP7IAhYuN5dyjSvCv5TVSXcAQy-xjD6LELcCFeROuErf7seTELYAa9O3WB2aoWIE6cHvnezvSYE/s1600/IMG_2977.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.extreme-food.eu/" target="_blank">Extreme Food - Ultra Fuel</a></b><br />
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I have never been renowned for my attention to appropriate nutrition during long events simply relying on carrying junk foods I know I will want to eat as they are in my daily life a bit of a treat. This time around and having carried out a successful bench test in the Cairngorms trip conducted previously to this event I went with a more scientific approach. Ultra Fuel quite simply allowed me to take on some useful calories quickly in liquid form and importantly as checkpoints were at times boiling water I could get a comforting hot drink. As the going this year was very quick there was no need for prolonged checkpoint stops so the Ultra Fuel was added to an insulated water bottle (it can be taken straight from the packet with useful fill level indicators inside the packaging) and mixed with hot water then put back in the Alpkit stem cell on my bars and I would carry on riding while it mixed. The hot chocolate was a particular lift as I had that just as it had just got dark with an associated drop in temperatures.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWXI814EZAjAcvMjAaRW1KqPG7EcwJi7O7iczgQhAUrtB7YAvU-F8L0dqQZ0mlbWe-lW2_IEhoIh-ptbsu2XyWgeKx09XoB5f2Kzc8aLJmWssmHoj6PehyphenhyphenIbVyUA1RIppUO9z1JPXo7c/s1600/DSC02950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWXI814EZAjAcvMjAaRW1KqPG7EcwJi7O7iczgQhAUrtB7YAvU-F8L0dqQZ0mlbWe-lW2_IEhoIh-ptbsu2XyWgeKx09XoB5f2Kzc8aLJmWssmHoj6PehyphenhyphenIbVyUA1RIppUO9z1JPXo7c/s1600/DSC02950.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://supernova-lights.com/" target="_blank">Supernova Lights</a></b><br />
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An opportunity to get hold of these lights was presented and while I wasn't able to justify the purchase until not long before I left for Finland I eventually chose to take the plunge and got hold of the E3 Triple 2 front light and associated rear. Dynamo powered lighting offered me one less thing to worry about in regards to charging of lights and though at walking speeds they were not illuminated I was able to continue with just a head torch, as soon as I was able to ride again the Supernova lights took over and illuminated the way. Mounted out front beyond my bar roll and low the spread and throw of light was excellent with the reassuring knowledge that any fast approaching snowmobile from the rear could not fail to notice my rear light.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSeLXIuFpKcspQDtJlXPTwmlex-NUCZ-HAv9w_3oLoeffi7ndVT8CPHzq1GZgivv1nioCVJ8lwUynVFBKspI97ZngBVcl1zVhqBLr0bIMz95M-L6b4iCG1BQmACt2kd1-dkPOs5TMdNsY/s1600/IMGP0682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSeLXIuFpKcspQDtJlXPTwmlex-NUCZ-HAv9w_3oLoeffi7ndVT8CPHzq1GZgivv1nioCVJ8lwUynVFBKspI97ZngBVcl1zVhqBLr0bIMz95M-L6b4iCG1BQmACt2kd1-dkPOs5TMdNsY/s1600/IMGP0682.JPG" height="183" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.brooksengland.com/" target="_blank">Brooks Saddles</a></b><br />
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Comfort is king and I had no desire to ride out the saddle for large sections of this course so the Cambium saddle provided one half of my answer to being comfortable at that end of the bike. The Cambium like other Brooks saddles provides comfort through being very supple and compliant though whereas other Brooks are leather in construction this is synthetic so stands up to a little more abuse in regards to getting it wet. Again as per my feet my backside was comfortable for the duration of the event so a big thumbs up for the Brooks Cambium.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.true-mountain.com/" target="_blank">True Mountain Clothing </a></b><br />
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UK made and UK designed I was lucky enough to get some early support from True Mountain and work with the company to come up with some great clothing items that would work in the challenging conditions. The issue with riding such an event as Rovaniemi 150 is that it can be cold, really cold or extremely cold and you don't know until you are riding there. Add the complication that not only do you need to stay warm but getting too hot and sweating is a huge problem and choosing clothing becomes very challenging.<br />
True Mountain came up with a number of key items that formed the basis of my clothing. Firstly a great medium weight long sleeved base layer that was the interface between my thin base and a cycling jacket. Then a tough waterproof jacket that allowed an additional layer to be added when the temperatures dropped but not so much that I would overheat. Having dispensed with a helmet for the event I used a True Mountain stretch beanie again the perfect balance between warmth and maintaining a good operating temperature. Finally the other half to my previously mentioned two part backside comfort package, a pair of under shorts with no chamois and just a thin liner in its place. The undershorts ensured no undue chaffage from bulky chamois pads deforming when riding and the fit and feel was much more comfortable than regular shorts.<br />
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<b><a href="http://alpkit.com/" target="_blank">Alpkit</a></b><br />
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Its no secret I have a long standing relationship with Alpkit. These guys are my go to for so many of the essential items that I need for these events and in this case the luggage I needed to carry all the required equipment and food for the event. A twin stem cell arrangement with fuel pod allowed me to have all the water and food I needed immediately to hand. The frame bag housed spares and additional food whilst the seat pack stored my spare clothing and down jacket. As always I wasn't disappointed and everything performed excellently. Another event completed under the assistance of Alpkit.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.wildcatgear.co.uk/" target="_blank">Wildcat Gear</a></b><br />
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As part of the event minimum kit we had to carry a large winter sleeping bag, mine a bulky 3kg affair in a 35l dry bag. Enabling me to transport this load on my bars was a Wildcat Gear Fat Lion bar harness. The harness held on to the bag as though its life depended on it and I was never annoyed by 'bobbing' loads as I moved the bike around. Not only that but some sneaky additional strap loops allowed me to easily attach my sleeping pad to the front on the harness. Thanks Wildcat I am suitably impressed by this very well thought out and executed piece of equipment.<br />
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The event as it turned out was completed in a much faster time than I had anticipated due to favourable conditions. The equipment on all fronts was hugely successful and if I had to pack tomorrow to complete the event again I would not alter a single item.</div>
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Massive thanks to those who helped me here and again enabled me to gain more life experience within a fantastic landscape being shared with some amazing racers.</div>
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paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-44074025379356254292015-02-10T11:16:00.001+00:002015-02-10T11:16:56.285+00:002015 Bivi Project #22015 Bivi Project #2 .. Robins Hut, Kielder ... another cold, star filled night.<div>
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paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-14163200196660711742015-01-27T10:48:00.003+00:002015-01-27T10:49:19.812+00:00The Challenge of Training<h2>
<span style="color: #999999;">Training ... <span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.6000003814697px;">the action of undertaking a course of exercise and diet in preparation for a sporting event.</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.6000003814697px;">Sometimes the activities undertaken under the guise of training present challenges that far outweigh that of the end goal ... a winter Cairngorms epic in training for the <a href="http://www.rovaniemi150.com/" target="_blank">Rovaniemi 150</a> is case in point. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15.6000003814697px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 15.6000003814697px;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/117805138" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <a href="http://vimeo.com/117805138">Cairngorms Winter Epic</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user4172874">Paul errington</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</span></span>paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-36027374344295356832015-01-12T21:49:00.000+00:002015-01-13T06:43:43.517+00:00A room with a view .. 2015 bivi project2015 holds so much ... a wedding (my own), a busy work schedule, an even busier life schedule.<br />
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I find the only way I can effectively manage my time is to treat everything as a project ... outline the objectives, detail the scope, decide on the planning and execution ... sounds like a soul less methodical way to approach my riding but it will enable 2015 to be used to its fullest.<br />
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One of the easiest and most rewarding activities is the simplicity in sleeping outside, ride out to a spot with friends, find somewhere interesting, sleep out to awake to a glorious view.<br />
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The most time efficient means is to stay local, sure when the opportunity arises I travel though when I have a single night then this time needs to be maximised.<br />
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Kielder reservoir is within 60 miles of my house give or take ... a longish ride of mixed on/offroad surfaces or an hours drive and a shorter ride in.<br />
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The reservoir has over the years been the focus of many art based projects leaving in their wake a serious of installations forming to the trained outdoor enthusiasts eye a series of spots for an overnight bivi.<br />
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With my first sizeable race of the year , <a href="http://www.rovaniemi150.com/" target="_blank">Rovaniemi 150</a>, looming the first in this small project to sleep out at each of these installations was achieved.<br />
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An early evening start led to a drive to a nearby village and a 2 hour ride to the planned overnight location accompanied by fellow overnighting enthusiast, Richard Elsdon.<br />
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The night ride in darkness was further chilled by sleating snow ... lights reflecting off the white flakes reduced visibility to a few feet beyond our front wheels.<br />
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Freyas Cabin, sitting close to the shore of the reservoir, was our overnight room with a view. The cabin, though more a shelter as open on 2 sides, is one of a pair with it sitting on the southern shore looking directly across to its counterpart Robins Cabin on the north shore.<br />
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Wet floor and poorly orientated so as to allow the wind to whip through this still was a preferable option to no shelter at all and at least provided a roof and seats upon which to set up a stove.<br />
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The view in the morning did not disappoint though cold hands and feet meant after packing we didn't linger for long.<br />
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Hopefully February will see the next shelter overnighted.<br />
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<br />paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-17233204902813019662015-01-12T21:23:00.004+00:002015-01-13T06:53:30.326+00:00True Mountain ... Tailoring for AdventureThe ability to ride and travel as much as I do is for no small part due to the companies that support me, keeping the bike underneath me and the cloths on my back.<br />
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I have always been lucky that on the whole sponsorship has developed friendships. The people that have been kind enough to help are generally like minded souls so even when people change companies or marketing ideals change we stay in touch.<br />
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In the case of <a href="http://www.true-mountain.com/" target="_blank">True Mountain</a> thats exactly what happened. I first met Tim Butcher working for another outdoor company and through Tim's help and advice I was well kitted for my coldest and highest races to date. When Tim told me about his new venture, True Mountain, I hoped we would get to work together again.<br />
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Founded in the values of local production using local materials True Mountain sees a great addition to the resurgence of companies seeking to produce their goods in the UK with as little imported material as possible.<br />
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2015 will see me help as much as I can develop the True Mountain ever evolving product line while being able to use to most fit and designed for purpose good.<br />
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Product updates to come soon ...<br />
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<b>www.true-mountain.com</b></div>
paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-47424478400130820082015-01-12T21:13:00.001+00:002015-01-13T06:54:08.911+00:00Shandalous ... new frame, fresh challengesInspiration to ride can be drawn from many places.<br />
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The desire to see new places and meet new people, step out from the daily grind and enrich your life.<br />
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Cycling affords a wealth of experiences for those who just keep turning pedals.<br />
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Inspiration at the end of 2014 came in the form of a new bike, a bike built to explore and adapt to its immediate purpose.<br />
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A <a href="http://www.shandcycles.com/bikes/stoater/" target="_blank">Shand Stoater</a> was delivered and from that moment 2015 began to take shape ... touring, audax, gravel, long days and multi days ... possibilities are only limited by my fitness and time.<br />
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<br />paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-75520424984414825692014-10-23T08:50:00.000+01:002014-10-23T08:50:07.488+01:00Shand Shindig ... a night out in Scotland<div style="color: #686868; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">
Shand Cycles, a frame building company based in Edinburgh, hosted a final goodbye to summer at their Shindig event, a social gathering of bike packers with a social route and very sociable intentions. Strathblane local Bryan Dawson crafted the route offering and we were promised great trails and stunning scenery.</div>
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The weather did not disappoint and the riding was indeed great. </div>
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New people were met and a good time was had by all.</div>
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Our ride in images.</div>
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paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-64934720036920578362014-05-28T21:56:00.000+01:002014-05-29T11:57:15.104+01:00Dorset Gravel Dash 100 ... "this is not a race"<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I don’t remember how I
discovered gravel racing, its not as though the UK has a huge scene… until last
weekend it had no scene at all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I guess probably an
article featured in XXC Magazine or one of the ultra racing forums probably
brought gravel to my attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some people cannot imagine anything worse than ‘grinding’ long sections
of hilly gravel road but to me it struck a chord and I wanted in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">My first event was in
2012, the Dirty Kanza 200 in Kansas, 200 miles starting and ending in Emporia,
Kansas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I met amazing people and
got a taste for the gravel scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The following year I went to Iowa to take on the well-respected Trans
Iowa, famed for its long distance at 325 miles and often brutal riding conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trans Iowa tested me but again I was
inspired by the people I rode with and the whole feel of the event.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">This year other events
conspired to keep me from the US and another gravel race but luckily in 2014
gravel came to the UK, the Dorset Gravel Dash 100.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The event was hardly
local, in fact I have driven to events in Europe that took less time to get
there but when some one has not only spent time but also stuck their neck out
to put on something new as a rider you need to make the effort to attend and
show support.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Charlie the Bikemonger
… the man, the organiser, the legend … those who favour one gear over many will
of heard of if not met Charlie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Running a bike shop out of Swanage Charlie has always pioneered so it
was no surprise he was the man to step up and launch UK gravel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Swanage is nestled
down on the south coast, the town sits on the sea surrounded by steep hillsides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Swanage was the start and end of the
Dorset Gravel Dash 100, specifically the Red Lion pub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now in my mind all great events should
start and finish at a pub !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The ‘race’<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Firstly the ‘Dash’ was
not a race ... lets make that clear though it was however ridden as quickly as
possible by all that rode it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>91
ish miles in distance (100 if you count wheel spins too) the course covered a
lot of bridleway gravel, some road , some trail and the occasional bike
swallowing puddle !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The start was a fairly
comfortable 8am and being able to start and finish an event not only the same
day but with time for an afternoon pub lunch was novel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I don’t think I have
ever seen such a diverse selection of bikes line up for an event before … thin,
fat, geared, singlespeed and even fixed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most boxes had been ticked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Post ‘race’ the bacon
sandwiches and coffees were handed around, this was not to be a day fuelled by
energy bars and gels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">8am and we are on the
high street riding out of town …<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a
leisurely start was soon rudely interrupted by an attacking George Budd, UK
Salsa rider, off the front racing away (a stewards enquiry was held regarding
possible racing during the dash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not wanting to miss the party at the front I had to ride over to George,
this was made easier as he realised his GPS (the whole course had to be
navigated by GPS) made a better paper weight than a means of navigation.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">George’s fait to ride
with me for the entire route (almost) was sealed as though he had the physical
advantage I was clearly the more technically endowed with a fully functioning
GPS.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The course was superb,
the views alone made the effort worthwhile as we rode headlands that allowed us
to survey the Jurassic coastline this region is famed for … steep cliffs and
secluded bays were dotted along the coastline.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">In the first few hours
there was a loose group of around 4 or 5 guys who would come together every now
and then though George being a pure bred racer was always keen to establish a
comfortable gap and in the process make sure I was working hard, he even gave
me a nose bleed!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The first and only
feed station came just after mid way and after bottle refills and a slice of
bacon cake (a first for me) we were quickly back on the bikes just as the 3<sup>rd</sup>
place rider, Jack Peterson, rolled in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The varied course was
an interesting comparison of which was the better machine for the day as George
had gone 650b mountain bike against my Halo Twin Rail tyred Salsa gravel bike
... the Warbird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the gravel and
flat road sections the Warbird eased my effort and allowed me to ride at least
alongside if not occasionally in front of George.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the mud got deep or we found ourselves bashing
alongside or up a farmers field the 650b’s fatter tyres and lower gearing was
envied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">A few times the twin
rail semi slick tyres gave me a quick wake up call as the bike tried to escape
my grasp.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">With a gap established
over 3<sup>rd</sup> place we had just to maintain a consistent effort till the
finish, the weather was fantastic and the company excellent, it was a great day
to be riding a bike.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The final foray in to
Swanage and the finish line involved a climb from Studland up on to the cliff
tops then a traverse along the headland before the final descent to the finish
along the sea front and back to the Red Lion pub.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">As we started the
climb up to the cliff top the density of walkers increased on the trail and as
George got out the saddle and comfortably eased away it was soon apparent that
the natural born racer was going to for home, I had to sit and suffer with no
reply to offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">As I arrived at the
top of the last agonising grassy climb along the headland a group of local
riders had gathered to cheer the riders on and indicated the slopes of the
final descent to the finish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">A spin along the sea
front and short road section saw me back at the pub and as soon as I had
finished in true Charlie style I had been furnished with a pint.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">George in the last few
miles of climbing had put nearly 10 minutes in to me, made more amazing by the
fact that the previous day he had won a 6 hour solo race on a fat bike!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">All that was now left
was to enjoy the weather and cheer those finishing after us whilst enjoying the
company of local riders and those that had made the trip for the previous days
singlespeed ride out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">My prize for second
place was a food and drink voucher for the local bistro, the tastiest prize I
have ever won and enjoyed the same evening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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A huge thank you goes
out to <a href="http://www.charliethebikemonger.com/">Charlie</a> and everyone that helped him put on this amazing event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first of its kind and hopefully the
first edition of many more.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Thanks to George for
you company during the day and a fine ride to win the ‘Saw of Glory’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
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Thanks to <a href="http://salsacycles.com/">Salsa Cycles</a>
as always for the bike underneath me, the mighty Warbird now a veteran of many
awesome events.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thanks to <a href="http://www.halowheels.com/">Halo</a> for my
wheels and importantly tyres, the Halo Twin Rail which again proved itself as a
master of all surfaces, almost.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Thanks to <a href="http://alpkit.com/">Alpkit</a> for the stem cell feed bag that kept food at hand all day.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Thanks to <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/24406215@N02/">Jon Macey</a>
for the photographs and video.<o:p></o:p></div>
paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-41079530930372233812014-05-16T10:01:00.000+01:002014-05-16T10:05:26.536+01:00Holyland Bikepacking Challenge - Part 3, The desert dash to the finish line<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Under advisement we had spent the night in
Arad as we had been told the descent to the Dead Sea was worth riding and
appreciating in daylight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
weren’t disappointed.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">A gravel road descent into a wadi
then led us to a seriously technical and steep descent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I chose caution whereas Ricky and James
went fully committed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">As technical descents go this one was long … really long … a real physical effort to get to the bottom. When we did finally reach the bottom we were at the lowest point of the race … the Dead Sea.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTl7LLG959XEGULcgPe0mkdxxICRhhBU-dj3xxAQKgQBI_obd3fGMz2CWAKhZpTMRmYT7NW6aZP1Wim2BIA5oAdkUlXKxLz4Fg5MV4lmvcCkffC2TS4OjMP7lpWkwLv2K9rmeTek3NPnI/s1600/DSC02231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTl7LLG959XEGULcgPe0mkdxxICRhhBU-dj3xxAQKgQBI_obd3fGMz2CWAKhZpTMRmYT7NW6aZP1Wim2BIA5oAdkUlXKxLz4Fg5MV4lmvcCkffC2TS4OjMP7lpWkwLv2K9rmeTek3NPnI/s1600/DSC02231.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Today and this whole last few hundred
km's to the finish in general felt a whole lot more serious than any
other section had prior to this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had been warned so many times about taking care when we reached the
desert, 40 degree heat and physical activity aren't very comfortable bed
fellows. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Breakfast as most mornings was a gas
station though this one was treat with much more attention as it would be the
last point of food and water we would see on course for 120km !<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With this in mind we weren't in a hurry
to leave.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The usual suspects gathered as we were
joined by Tom, Ingo and Shay. Tom lightened the intense mood with the tale of
his previous nights bivi spot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
short Tom had chosen a pristine grass lawn away from our sandy playground bivi
though at 3am in the morning discovered why the lawn was pristine …
sprinklers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A rude awakening by
all accounts and a forced early morning ‘house’ move for Tom.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">After we had satisfied our hunger we then
turned to the important task of carrying water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Straps, folding bottles and bladders were all pulled out,
filled and strapped to the bikes in a variety of manners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all wanted to carry as much as
possible as I managed to secure 8 litres of water across varying parts of my
bike and person.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMHHG6MPl4flYIyVWQdiPipJI4brPvrncAFAkGNXEJDiLm99LTvvZMzwBO8iAr4JOxd7UQel4DWr_tTugLt5OfpY-n40PTcrq-t704hqS678gdxDIOoCENh5jMXbYjGArsjJkBPZcAxWc/s1600/DSC02237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMHHG6MPl4flYIyVWQdiPipJI4brPvrncAFAkGNXEJDiLm99LTvvZMzwBO8iAr4JOxd7UQel4DWr_tTugLt5OfpY-n40PTcrq-t704hqS678gdxDIOoCENh5jMXbYjGArsjJkBPZcAxWc/s1600/DSC02237.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Rolling out of the gas station felt like we
were leaving behind a little safety and really getting in to this race
properly. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">There are moments in cycling where all of a
sudden an immense realization of just how amazing what you are doing hits you …
apprehension was suddenly replaced by joy as we rolled through a steep sided
narrow wadi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scenery was alike
something from Star Wars .. all of a sudden we were on Tatooine in search of
Old Ben Kenobi.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Tom stopped at a bus shelter deciding to
take some time out and approach this section on his own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ingo and Shay would stop for food
shortly after.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">When you are riding south in sight of the
shoreline of the Dead Sea and you know the route heads West you know there is
only one way that the trail is going to take you … up.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Though before we could get on the climb to
gain some height there was the small matter of a negotiating the sinuous
network of wadi’s .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wadi, and I
guess this should have been explained earlier, is an Arabic term for
valley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also refers to
ephemeral rivers, those that only contain water in times of heavy rainfall. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The clue to the nature of most of the
trails we were riding is in the term ‘river’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were basically on the whole riding along the dry river
beds and as such the trail was a mix of gravel and sand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes it rode well and sometimes
not so much.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Navigation was challenging even with GPS as
we traversed in and out of these small valleys often having to complete a bonus
climb to get a feel for where the trail actually went.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On one occasion the trail navigated me straight into a
patch of extremely soft clay near losing myself and my bike in the process.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The persistent Wadi traversing seemed to go
on forever and by the time our wheels touched tarmac and we could see the large
climb ahead of us it was already approaching early evening.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Though we were initially relieved to have
reached what we deemed a midpoint of the day we were amazed at the time it had
taken to get here … then the climbing started !</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The tarmac switchbacks eased the gradient
but it was persistent and every crest ever revealed more height to be gained. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Daylight had run out and not close behind
was our water supply.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">A scroll out on the GPS indicated that we
were far from our goal of the next source of food and water and we were now
each down to our last litre of water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At this point I started to worry… genuinely worry … coming from the UK a
lack of water is not something we ever have to deal with too much maybe.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We stopped at a road junction and made the
decision for the first time to really ride off course and use a marked point of
interest 4km from the route where it was indicated water could be found.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The pint of interest in question was a
large processing plant of some description and its lights lit up the
surrounding desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We lived in
hope we would find someone receptive and able to help us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were certainly not disappointed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The obvious point of call was the security
office, again Israeli hospitality was unmatched as not only were we pointed in
the direction of the water taps in the car park but the guys also raided the
office fridge and gave us a bag of cold apples, cottage cheese, bread and
assorted foods.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We sat down in a circle in the middle of
the lit car park and shared our hosts offerings, no sooner had we sat though
than the security guys had gone back to the fridge for a second look and
brought us more to share.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">A chilled apple had never tasted so good.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We rolled away from the processing plant
with full water bottles and full stomachs and a road climb later we slept
directly on the trail tired from the physical efforts and worrying about water
the day had dealt us.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The sound of others conversing and the
occasional flash of a headtorch woke me from my sleep … 4:30am and we had been
caught up by Tom, Ingo and Shay who we had left the day prior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time to get moving.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">It was soon light as we moved along the
trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had packed quickly and
started the catch up to the others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We were riding through a huge crater its rim we had slept on the night
before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The views were
spectacular.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">It was over another 2 hours of riding
before the previous days planned destination even came in to sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we finally reached the small town
we found an oasis ... a top notch coffee shop, a supermarket and a bike shop ..
heaven.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ttk-THFFUgW1EdbP4rY1bpoPHk1NoShh-iPrpEoj48oI3_xI3Yf12wDe7x2Jzfa6WZFDZ9_hHxxm-otM9Hyf4p4ueo1dT2GOY8MyqvUCd_Yp_B2YEu4YZn6Z6ZRiRjsSVbt5V2XhmPs/s1600/DSC02260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ttk-THFFUgW1EdbP4rY1bpoPHk1NoShh-iPrpEoj48oI3_xI3Yf12wDe7x2Jzfa6WZFDZ9_hHxxm-otM9Hyf4p4ueo1dT2GOY8MyqvUCd_Yp_B2YEu4YZn6Z6ZRiRjsSVbt5V2XhmPs/s1600/DSC02260.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">After the previous days toils there was no
rush to leave these luxuries so a few coffees were ordered and multiple trips
to the supermarket were made.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The day started out as many others before
it had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We would ride out as a
group of 6 but quickly diminish to the 3 of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trail was fast moving to start as we descended in to the
valley and rode gravel roads quickly ticking off the kilometres.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This day was the hottest yet and the
lower down the valley we went toward the Dead Sea the hotter it got.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Learning from the previous day we did not
miss an opportunity to refuel and aside from another chance meeting with an HLC
fan and a raft of punctures this was maybe the least eventful day we had had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though what it lacked in
interesting content it made up for in duration.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyIDFxcLmJXa0Yze3TxZo-HDJ_xlQtgeUjuv0edD2gfTPRzEIm-sX2_wzTO4xwLNXWsXEcMLk6Vq_8VyrZCVDx7mM-5pfQM0PLkobhyphenhyphenhx08iOJzpS0Q9z-ABLKMvzAQh-S7cYmLEkoVQ/s1600/DSC02261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyIDFxcLmJXa0Yze3TxZo-HDJ_xlQtgeUjuv0edD2gfTPRzEIm-sX2_wzTO4xwLNXWsXEcMLk6Vq_8VyrZCVDx7mM-5pfQM0PLkobhyphenhyphenhx08iOJzpS0Q9z-ABLKMvzAQh-S7cYmLEkoVQ/s1600/DSC02261.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We were now riding to finish as we figured
this could be our second last day on the HLC trail so we pushed all day and
through until early the next morning till we reached Paran at 2:00am… a 22 hour
day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Paran had been ‘shut’ when we reached
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A gated town the gates were
firmly shut so we had slept just outside and keen not to waste any time we made
do with 3 hours sleep and were up at 5:00am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t even bother to get my sleeping bag out and had just
climbed straight in to my bivi bag.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">This was it, our last day, today no matter
what we would ride until we had finished.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Typical of the HLC route even the flat
gravel roads we began on wouldn’t give us an easy km as we suffered in to a
head wind, the event was not giving us up easily.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The pace between the 3 of us was more
variable than it had been all week and while Ricky and James decided to stop
for food I decided to roll further up the trail until it met the road crossing
prior to another venture West.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The road crossing turned out to be a tunnel
so opportunity to escape the intense heat was taken and I lay out for a few
minutes to cool off.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4SvAO303kEhNvXvlh4he_fDAGQ9XUiWR4-Gfd-b0pqO-x2y6d2solKopmGe5b2uZ9MrjkLitgAvBI4PGzABDhdgyIj0_-TUXwHy6EIoYruAlUCKgEjkOLkuUDfxDgPRVz9hsIjXvWto/s1600/DSC02266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4SvAO303kEhNvXvlh4he_fDAGQ9XUiWR4-Gfd-b0pqO-x2y6d2solKopmGe5b2uZ9MrjkLitgAvBI4PGzABDhdgyIj0_-TUXwHy6EIoYruAlUCKgEjkOLkuUDfxDgPRVz9hsIjXvWto/s1600/DSC02266.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Leaving the tunnel you were immediately
immersed in baking heat and as the trail wound across flat ground prior to the
climb there was no shade to be had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpSeKJ9vLuy0RevrPBsYExRDltu7l7MEW-YG5T26C7YvV6blD0sLE7EJjjPc9VyaJULnZ7R4SBiBPNA2oGfXwBk3kH6fuGnZ2QVe0qZVH6Z04SlMAX4lPf_Ru3fQuFLdHu1ShluXwYqU/s1600/DSC02271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpSeKJ9vLuy0RevrPBsYExRDltu7l7MEW-YG5T26C7YvV6blD0sLE7EJjjPc9VyaJULnZ7R4SBiBPNA2oGfXwBk3kH6fuGnZ2QVe0qZVH6Z04SlMAX4lPf_Ru3fQuFLdHu1ShluXwYqU/s1600/DSC02271.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The ascent was a relatively short but very steep affair and required a
push rather than a ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unlike
the previous days though what I thought was the top was actually the top and
with minimal effort after the climb I found the water stop indicated on the
GPS.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">With a sink complete with running cold
water and some benches under shade to lay out on I decided this was the perfect
spot to wait for Ricky and James to catch up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When they arrived I was a little disappointed to learn they
had found a great breakfast just off route at a store though I was happy enough
with the food offering we found a few km further down the trail.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The next section of riding was mostly
singletrack winding up, down and on top a large plateau on the mountainside above the
Dead Sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were under no illusion about how long this section would take to ride before we would finally descend back to
the valley floor below and then head almost directly to Eilat and the finish. We paced ourselves in the heat and when we could took some shade.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The riding, though on the hot side, was
outstanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the most part the
trail was singletrack and had great flow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Every now and then the odd sand dune or rocky river bed would be thrown
in to check we were still suffering but as the daylight faded we were still
enjoying the bike and the scenery.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CxGYgwAKfCLTI6xQ1d6kCb9-4YK8xmcivdmSHz2btssjGHP6BWXAHqzdV4i1PxuFtPYfCSELvz-3VxDewO4ywFib30PzFLRy0ewl-upGc2Ah-r9mqxI_zLEbvVcF5sQDTMLBuGr8vZM/s1600/DSC02273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CxGYgwAKfCLTI6xQ1d6kCb9-4YK8xmcivdmSHz2btssjGHP6BWXAHqzdV4i1PxuFtPYfCSELvz-3VxDewO4ywFib30PzFLRy0ewl-upGc2Ah-r9mqxI_zLEbvVcF5sQDTMLBuGr8vZM/s1600/DSC02273.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The final section before we reached the
valley floor was rode in the dark and on the whole was downhill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last water stop was utilized 40km
from the finish then the mental high of nearing completion was starting to take
hold.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">A last final flourish on man made trail
spat us back to the main road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
we crossed the road expecting the cruel nature of the event to deal us some
rocky riverbed with associated headwinds to ride on we were very surprised with
what we found … tarmac !</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Not only a tarmac surface but the mornings
southerly headwind had switched to a northerly tailwind … possibly a parting
gift from the elements that had tested us for the previous 8 days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the first time since we had started
the km’s felt easy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The lights and soon the Vegas style hotels
of Eilat were in sight, a strange departure from the landscape we had been familiar with
though we were not complaining.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The nature of self-supported racing means
that though there is a mass start the finishing of riders is spread out over a
matter of days not hours so we rolled in just the 3 of us.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The finish is basically the end point on
your GPS file so when we reached Eilat and the finish there were no banners or
cheering supporters just the Friday night revellers partying on the beach, no
one aware of what we had just achieved or even endured. We stopped and enjoyed a silent satisfaction of accomplishment.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In true British style we congratulated each
other with a firm handshake and duly collapsed on to the beach, it was 2am Saturday
morning and just under 9 days since we had begun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The early morning then involved picking up some food from a store, eating sat at a quiet bench a few km
down the beachfront then sleeping on a not so crowded beach.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj41I86TFRzKTsAI7-Lz87WNkUvnck0tR7fxhDrAA1Gi3FHSscP7SnhdHZzFhYJWNw0axDEfLu16d9Vx8eSyvXVaDWsIznthz-gKORt8VYwBdk4bZ4OkyairfjgqnkblVGZmqs66NW1-Tg/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj41I86TFRzKTsAI7-Lz87WNkUvnck0tR7fxhDrAA1Gi3FHSscP7SnhdHZzFhYJWNw0axDEfLu16d9Vx8eSyvXVaDWsIznthz-gKORt8VYwBdk4bZ4OkyairfjgqnkblVGZmqs66NW1-Tg/s1600/photo.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The HLC had been ridden and completed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My first self supported event finished.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The days after the event were spent mainly
socializing and eating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
continued to meet so many amazing people and continued my positive Israel experience
until the moment the plane took off destined for the UK.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Huge thanks to so many people that helped
me out especially Zohar Kantor and his whole family who welcomed me to their
country and home and made sure I was looked after every second outside the time
spent on the HLC route.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Thanks to Gordon Active for their help with
my travel logistics and making getting to Israel as painless as possible though
I wasn’t so keen to leave.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The bike and all equipment worked
flawlessly and right now I wouldn’t change much about my set up so thank you
Salsa, Ison and Halo for keeping top class wheels underneath me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Thank you Alpkit for making sure I always
had a comfortable bed and some means of carrying it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The HLC right now is the toughest challenge
I have ever undertaken and I have tried plenty of tough things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The event will without doubt be back
for 2015 and will be a great success.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I came to Israel open minded with no pre
conceptions about the country or people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I made sure media or other opinion did not cloud my outlook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I left with new friends and a genuine
love for a country and its culture.</span></div>
paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-13548557425715262902014-05-11T19:41:00.001+01:002014-05-11T19:41:16.328+01:00Holyland Bikepacking Challenge - Part 2, Sun, sea, sand and Jerusalem<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Waking in our dusty clearing we were soon
rolling and the trail we couldn’t find the night before was just as elusive in
the daylight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We resorted to bush
whacking through the vegetation until we popped out on to a very distinct
trail.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Today’s goal was Tel Aviv and beyond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The promise of a roll along the coast
and plenty of food options on offer spurred us on.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The initial long descent then turned in to
long straight flat sections on agriculture plantations, with the weight of my
pack annoying me these long sections were really testing as I developed a dull
back pain from lack of movement in the saddle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Speed was high but interest was low… then there was sea.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhXszF43JlioXzTFVdWZGWh1dvKrw1tJ6JxHk5NqToEVqmGy10VpWumwoUzlP4bvJ-rZ-h4tZk4nIb2yQpX8OFdGlBNvI1ZtxdR0nbptE2iJBVmKJdaBijMj6lt3MxKxZwNZGIvJ3Yg2U/s1600/DSC02168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhXszF43JlioXzTFVdWZGWh1dvKrw1tJ6JxHk5NqToEVqmGy10VpWumwoUzlP4bvJ-rZ-h4tZk4nIb2yQpX8OFdGlBNvI1ZtxdR0nbptE2iJBVmKJdaBijMj6lt3MxKxZwNZGIvJ3Yg2U/s1600/DSC02168.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">When you are bikepacking the lack of
hygiene is never really an issue as there is little to draw comparison
against.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The people you are riding
with are just as dirty and grubby as you but when we reached Tel Aviv, a
popular beach resort, it was obvious even on just day 4 we needed a
shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily the beach facilities
were at hand and we maximised with a shower and rinse of clothes much to the
holiday makers amazement.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The trails into Tel Aviv had been deep sand
and frustrating to ride so post shower and heading in to the city it was a
pleasure to roll on a tarmac bike path though it was crowded so you had to ride
with your wits about you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bringing
a fully loaded mountain bike to a stop is not a quick affair.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The evenings meal as had become the norm
was a gas station just off the route, crisps and chocolate milk had become my
staple diet.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We pressed on for another hour or so until
at around 10pm we came to a picnic ground, mown grass, tables and hard standing
were all on offer so not knowing what we might find later down the trail we
opted for an early finish and to go for a slightly earlier start.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The next day started with more
singletrack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is maybe a good
time to illustrate just how good the singletrack riding is in Israel and the
quantity that the route takes in is large, every day was filled with singletrack
flow to lift the spirits.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Again as on day 2 we came across a mountain
bike marathon event though this time we were riding through the event car park,
as we did so we were greeted by a rider that had been following our progress on
trackleaders.com.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> W</span>e chatted about our
progress and he let us know that Steve Heading, a very accomplished British
rider, who had started so strongly with the leaders had become ill and had had
to leave the route and make his own way to Eilat.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">No sooner had our guest rider joined us
another rider decided he would like to follow the route with us for a short
while.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a chance meeting
and it was nice for a short while to add another dynamic to the group and
discuss not only the event but allsorts of topics as we compared the UK and
Israeli outlook on many subjects.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Our hope for a breakfast at a local gas
station was dashed as it was closed but our new guest rider had no problem
approaching a couple outside their home for some help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Soon water bottles were filled and pockets
were stuffed with dates.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">This brief restock was enough to see us
further down the trail to a gas station that was open and as we knew this was
the start to what we thought would be the long climb to Jerusalem (we now know
it was the start of an epic climb) we stopped again to address our ever
increasing calorie debt.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">As we began the climb we had all agreed to
climb at our own pace so we drifted apart on the fire road, Ricky taking
the lead as I settled in to a comfortable pace with James occupying the middle
ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The climb was not
all up and was punctuated with some fast rocky downs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvuND9fh4tLHGJVsQ1gkZnOQKzuGBFaS8SrDtVuoXcOwWfRL22suACwhbKmQQutdhyphenhyphenzeCO73_48yTERsZA3r4lxiwl8xBtbVK7U5aA2pZNmWwYLnUsmISr-36ON4Y-vS1P6ZYczlTiZs/s1600/DSC02174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvuND9fh4tLHGJVsQ1gkZnOQKzuGBFaS8SrDtVuoXcOwWfRL22suACwhbKmQQutdhyphenhyphenzeCO73_48yTERsZA3r4lxiwl8xBtbVK7U5aA2pZNmWwYLnUsmISr-36ON4Y-vS1P6ZYczlTiZs/s1600/DSC02174.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">As myself and James started a section of
downhill there was the now unfortunately all too familiar site of Ricky fixing
a flat, an aggressive riding style coupled with under performing tyres had
dealt Ricky some serious flat changing practice on this trip.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Knowing they would catch me up I continued
to roll along the trail on my own enjoying the tree lined track providing shade
from the days heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2XVdFiYSNrsY5WmeGrf5de1ii1wFFClncCmA7IvSsPUkGX2Cq-jyIhU0_ktXNWkKIU48ZMxnuXm-Wu5p-mEghfyy30QJbzsx7d9ENV7qDaY81SY-3v-mMgz_oHYAyM7QuAwjhnApP8U/s1600/DSC02171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2XVdFiYSNrsY5WmeGrf5de1ii1wFFClncCmA7IvSsPUkGX2Cq-jyIhU0_ktXNWkKIU48ZMxnuXm-Wu5p-mEghfyy30QJbzsx7d9ENV7qDaY81SY-3v-mMgz_oHYAyM7QuAwjhnApP8U/s1600/DSC02171.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">As I flowed more singletrack I came to a
small campground and met with more local riders who were following the HLC and
showed me a natural pool of cold spring water to wait by till James and Ricky
caught up.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The awareness in the cycling community for
this event was astonishing … many times we would ride past people who would
shout ‘HLC’ at us <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The climb to Jerusalem was long, so much
longer than we had first thought and every time we thought we were there
scrolling out on the GPS screen indicated another false summit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time we reached the outskirts of
the city it was already early afternoon and we pulled up at the first store we
found.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">At this point some emergency shoe
modifications were needed as I could feel the cleats through the soles of my
shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The addition of some padded
tape to the inside of the shoes offered a cushioned layer offering much welcome
respite to my feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Riding this
kind of distance is all about body maintenance and you neglect any niggle it
will be sure to bite you at some point and endanger your ability to finish.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The old city of Jerusalem offered up what I
consider to be the most comical route choice of the whole trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The GPS line pointed us down a narrow
enclosed market street bustling with traders and people either side and barely
only a handlebar and a half wide a corridor to negotiate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All was going well until a group of
elderly ladies decided to stop directly in front of us to make a purchase
from a shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately that
left us no room to manoeuvre around and as the ladies were clearly immersed in
their purchase they were oblivious to the traffic bottleneck we had
caused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People couldn’t pass in
either direction as we were the subject of much annoyance by people trying to
go about their day to day business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Eventually after 5 minutes the ladies moved and the huge backlog of
traffic could then flow again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
made out exit from this narrow confine as quickly as possible. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLg3Zw9hxhJUugOb8TQcnK6phKhtgfpS_IXPXMgTeI66VWpE568x0-1jLCbtRwI34-ZEGKracqJScLtWAjWSKvwLX7Sl39PeE01vHSzbclC0hXjQdrB91lr0PzwDTM9p0Uh33j84SKULw/s1600/DSC02178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLg3Zw9hxhJUugOb8TQcnK6phKhtgfpS_IXPXMgTeI66VWpE568x0-1jLCbtRwI34-ZEGKracqJScLtWAjWSKvwLX7Sl39PeE01vHSzbclC0hXjQdrB91lr0PzwDTM9p0Uh33j84SKULw/s1600/DSC02178.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIyw4dG7F-kzs2AIWY6AeA4E0LASiDG9LBJzYSgmkXZbbO_3uZEqAD9ZfxACoYI2_hCBgM3fnZwphHCuXO6UjS6EZ3GNZ_05gOpalrnAbYEHW2hokc15jSyiNXuCi8BZOdirTpx5emac/s1600/DSC02181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIyw4dG7F-kzs2AIWY6AeA4E0LASiDG9LBJzYSgmkXZbbO_3uZEqAD9ZfxACoYI2_hCBgM3fnZwphHCuXO6UjS6EZ3GNZ_05gOpalrnAbYEHW2hokc15jSyiNXuCi8BZOdirTpx5emac/s1600/DSC02181.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOee8JfdcbI4Rx9-Z5CNtkwf6AOrdwiwMBhu4mxwMu7ZBWMGEzMN6QDOTVEL7B5wBHfy-Erskx_GY0t-YbypC-hEWzG2sZRllvfMPI7v7-ka1SCBjqXqwGJDR2JqUSG8O5f0Kjgiwz7M/s1600/DSC02187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOee8JfdcbI4Rx9-Z5CNtkwf6AOrdwiwMBhu4mxwMu7ZBWMGEzMN6QDOTVEL7B5wBHfy-Erskx_GY0t-YbypC-hEWzG2sZRllvfMPI7v7-ka1SCBjqXqwGJDR2JqUSG8O5f0Kjgiwz7M/s1600/DSC02187.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Again the initial exit from Jerusalem as in
Tel Aviv was a busy cycle path but this led to a huge gravel descent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately the descent was proceeded
by a huge gravel climb … well we expected nothing else.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">After every night so far sleeping out we
decided to try and locate some indoor accommodation with hopefully a
shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had been informed on
the route that other riders were using the Bikepacking Israel facebook group to
locate accommodation so a message back home to Grace set her looking for a
trail angel via social media.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
didn’t take long to find a spot at someone’s home in a Kibbutz and with the thought
of a bed we rode the last 20km at a brisk pace.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">That night we were guests in a stranger’s
house but treat like old friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Food was forced upon us though we tried to be polite and not impose too
much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Israel at every turn was
offering us up stellar examples of the countries hospitality and welcoming
attitude toward visitors.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">It was no surprise when we left the next
day that the trail quickly turned in to more beautiful singletrack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>6:30am, the sun was shining and so
early in the day we were already enjoying life at its best … then we rode past
grazing camels … what’s not to love!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TbCuqmUVOw-XHl3jR-29d2pXi8ZpeaNyxt1OgtEEXrgCLbo6ALVFwStogGo1aVHTxx1mje4cUe99sIvRRzNBWt9tLj8el3O2BqzmQdQzHCHTdC5c6Mv6eTuBHKeaHmZkgukOUN3Xoyg/s1600/DSC02197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TbCuqmUVOw-XHl3jR-29d2pXi8ZpeaNyxt1OgtEEXrgCLbo6ALVFwStogGo1aVHTxx1mje4cUe99sIvRRzNBWt9tLj8el3O2BqzmQdQzHCHTdC5c6Mv6eTuBHKeaHmZkgukOUN3Xoyg/s1600/DSC02197.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-ZRp7XBOjdvlLhqogWEstzyljaVN1-hgpaV-OKS_rFCftEomKxeaoT4l8Zhfk8yaQMtmRBTnS1WRj_xeAYjyNh3bk0zMJ2915MOqeFHU9zxnoWwqgOKpBZjXT7vSOJCZEnew16rk8hg/s1600/DSC02201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-ZRp7XBOjdvlLhqogWEstzyljaVN1-hgpaV-OKS_rFCftEomKxeaoT4l8Zhfk8yaQMtmRBTnS1WRj_xeAYjyNh3bk0zMJ2915MOqeFHU9zxnoWwqgOKpBZjXT7vSOJCZEnew16rk8hg/s1600/DSC02201.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We had given little consideration to our
standing in the event as a whole, we had no feel for where anyone was in front
or behind us and in fairness our only concern was covering kilometre’s and
getting to the finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even so it
was still exciting to see a rider in the distance and more so as we could make
out the outline of a bike sporting full bikepacking regalia.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We had caught up with Ilan Rubenstein, a
man that at the pre race dinner had promised us overnight accommodation in the
aquarium in Eilat <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>where he worked…
in the actual subsea aquarium! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We were pleased to see Ilan though his mood
was anything but jovial having endured little sleep the night before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day previous Passover had ended and
Ilan had been caught up in the noise of celebration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still with little sleep Ilan was happy to see us and share
some tales from the trail of his HLC experience so far and also offer up some
advice on a possible final destination for the days riding, Arad, the start of
the desert section.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">An over enthusiastic Ricky had shot up the
trail down a wrong turn and while we waited Ilan made his own way to a gas
station breakfast while we waited for Ricky.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Ricky arrived he was not alone and had been joined by a
fast moving Tom Willard, another British rider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hadn’t seen Tom since the first day and he had apparently
been gradually gaining ground on us for the past few days having spent the
previous night within a few hundred metre’s of our hosts house.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">So after spending days just the three of us
we were now in the proximity of another few riders … when we reached the gas
station that number grew by 2 more as we caught Ingo and Shay.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We didn’t know it at this point but with
the exception of Ilan, who would leave the event once he had completed his own
journey, these riders would never be far from us till the end of the race.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwaVzUcUlZI1wJWKAPtlFeZ-0PBOAPauXYeg0be2BLThA73FRzI-ALrPNVifCK8N3pejwAwGnPg57JML500IIX0VpcwlZEUFNvNZ7wkg7gENAZzVv0f2ypz3wCZkZpnwPcRkdDmDCr1w4/s1600/DSC02207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwaVzUcUlZI1wJWKAPtlFeZ-0PBOAPauXYeg0be2BLThA73FRzI-ALrPNVifCK8N3pejwAwGnPg57JML500IIX0VpcwlZEUFNvNZ7wkg7gENAZzVv0f2ypz3wCZkZpnwPcRkdDmDCr1w4/s1600/DSC02207.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">This day brought a change to riding
companions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I decided to let Ricky
and James ride on at a water stop while waiting for Tom to do some ‘self
maintenance’ in the form of a shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I had exchanged emails with Tom before the event and had ridden briefly
with him at the start but this would be the first extended period of time we
would spend together.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Tom had mostly ridden this event on his own
and this was his first bikepacking event so he was learning as he went.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved this guys enthusiam and the
fact that he called it a ‘holiday’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Any negativity I had about any of my current niggles dissolved in his company.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIz3c5rh2Jfo-hDqPgFIugwayfaUUjCdimzJLAyDLPujoFA9WEboD8ifj2RD7yXimDJt_yQwj1WDsl_tNLNMyNrTnNHmdJ-g30rjQ2r_21eD_4BhTok7iI-3Syu9yF8IJbZ9alrb_W5h4/s1600/DSC02213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIz3c5rh2Jfo-hDqPgFIugwayfaUUjCdimzJLAyDLPujoFA9WEboD8ifj2RD7yXimDJt_yQwj1WDsl_tNLNMyNrTnNHmdJ-g30rjQ2r_21eD_4BhTok7iI-3Syu9yF8IJbZ9alrb_W5h4/s1600/DSC02213.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The days riding would see us skirt the
Israel/Palestinian current border.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While doing so we witnessed car loads of Palestinian’s being dropped off
near a gap in the fence where they would exit to waiting cars on Israeli soil
before being sped away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another
highlight as to just how real and raw this event can be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was TV esq images occurring right
in front of us. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIF_2tNG5XGSsvVBEDNsOOkcyYlIXdbrwi6l5456oV3RbxgfQ9YKBRxxbc_o4GiA9a30o6H98JBNoFvUUPCgOUlgEj7Xln9nm-7hfTkt9AdmAGV5WFkZzGbThTM3Ccqo4q3SdUYOXD4k/s1600/DSC02209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIF_2tNG5XGSsvVBEDNsOOkcyYlIXdbrwi6l5456oV3RbxgfQ9YKBRxxbc_o4GiA9a30o6H98JBNoFvUUPCgOUlgEj7Xln9nm-7hfTkt9AdmAGV5WFkZzGbThTM3Ccqo4q3SdUYOXD4k/s1600/DSC02209.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We rode good pace all day as we progressed
up to and on to the long climb and when the climbing was done we could look out
across to Arad and the start of the desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we crested the highest point of the day it was if a line
had been drawn to indicate a boundary between the previous vegetation rich
landscape and the stark contrast of the rock strewn desert ahead of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything felt a little more serious
now.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">We rolled across the mostly flat middle
ground between mountain and city until we entered the Arad were again we joined
Ricky and James who had been forced to stop due to GPS issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That night we ate pizza, one of very
few hot meals we had had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
nights bivi spot would see us again meet up with Ingo and Shay as we took
refuge in an adventure playground, the sandy floor making a comfortable bed.</span></div>
paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-10684060967496214272014-05-11T19:06:00.004+01:002014-05-12T16:50:56.244+01:00Holyland Bikepacking Challenge - Part 1, Finding our way in the Holyland.<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Toward the end of 2013
I heard about a new bikepacking event, a 1300km self supported race across
Israel … the Holyland Bikepacking Challenge.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I was instantly drawn
… the flights looked reasonable and putting aside that I had never managed to
finish a self supported race I was keen to get involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The logistics are
always a huge issue when travelling to race away from home but in this instance
the organisers were arranging local support… what was not to like about this
event!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">So as the months
passed and the event got closer I still hadn’t booked my flight as life and
other projects were getting in the way of sitting down and properly planning
the trip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">With only a little
over a month to go I got a wake up email from Zohar Kantor, part of the
organisation and Israel’s top bikepacker, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>just checking in the make sure I was still going … I hadn’t
planned a single thing so some emergency planning was needed and I was going to
need some help in doing so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Zohar put me in touch
with Gordon Active(www.gordonactive.com), a specialist tour company based in
Tel Aviv.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gordon Active went to
work and quickly found me the required flights and provided all the usual
required travel information to save me trawling the internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With Gordon Active taking care of
travel I could start looking at my bikepacking gear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">As it had been a while
since I had spent a night out everything needed a review for its suitability
for the trip and Alpkit.com were needed to manufacture some last minute kit
ideas to make sure my set up on the Salsa El Mariachi was not only as light as
I had time to make it but also durable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The packed bike was
the lightest set up I had ever put together partly aided by knowledge of Israel’s
favourable climate at that time of year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAppTY1TNWseRYvtszNYj1YQtROnuB8tz0RKJI5ZgvKkAmNF5jkrOdT7vqLLC7eNUKHjIq4JDjHVCDAUx8tbjPW_gFgv8OAh9eHSeDs-JGRpTb1fJeQdsvxyRJim3RLg3GmXdbPj1fsk0/s1600/DSC02072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAppTY1TNWseRYvtszNYj1YQtROnuB8tz0RKJI5ZgvKkAmNF5jkrOdT7vqLLC7eNUKHjIq4JDjHVCDAUx8tbjPW_gFgv8OAh9eHSeDs-JGRpTb1fJeQdsvxyRJim3RLg3GmXdbPj1fsk0/s1600/DSC02072.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">With gear packed in
Alpkit bags, Halo tyres fitted and a K Lite dynamo set up all of my tried and
tested reliable brands were represented across the bike in some part or other
so that gave me some peace of mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The set up had had
little test time, well it had had none, but as I knew Zohar was riding a new
frame only built up a few days prior to the event there was no stress
associated with my lack of preparation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After all I would have 1300km of riding to refine my set up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br />The travel
arrangements saw me land in Israel right at the start of the religious time of
Passover, most importantly to me anyway it meant I would be treat to a large
family meal with the whole Kantor family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You can never eat enough pre event especially as food during the ride
would be so sporadic.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9bbly9Kp5sD46WAH3RF5jSg2gEJ0FB6gYVpvuXZymFjli5fig6hi9JGzo0EYpYypRYT71l7tr4gIpe3PbpLXS6XpVmOxulFI9TR1M3XqllbojHeH5nbSv6yOmSh2bmY9zS2KsAon6OE/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9bbly9Kp5sD46WAH3RF5jSg2gEJ0FB6gYVpvuXZymFjli5fig6hi9JGzo0EYpYypRYT71l7tr4gIpe3PbpLXS6XpVmOxulFI9TR1M3XqllbojHeH5nbSv6yOmSh2bmY9zS2KsAon6OE/s1600/photo.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The days prior to
travelling north to the start were spent at Zohar’s house near the beach in
Habonim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A perfect setting to
prepare the bikes and adjust mentally to the task at hand, not to mention being
well fed again every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
also a great chance to meet and get to know American Max Morris who had made
the very long journey to come to the event those his sleeping system definitely
did not attract any excess baggage charge ;).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The day before the
start we travelled northward and upward as all the riders packed in to a coach
and were driven to the mountainous area known as the Golan Heights to the town
of Majdal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The night before a big
event is usually spent wracked with nerves as last minute adjustments are made
to the bikes and kit is unpacked and repacked more than anything just to occupy
the mind and divert attention from whatever massive undertaking the next day
will bring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This night before
though was spent as a group gorging ourselves on amazing local cuisine as we
ate our final pre race supper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The meal was all too
quickly over and some sleep and a quick breakfast saw us already rolling out on
the course, within a few kilometres a selection seemed to have been made as 3
riders headed off at what seemed like day race pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My game was somewhat longer focussing more on the finish
than the finish line position.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">When you picture
Israel not having been your thoughts conjure a picture of a dry arid landscape
trails made from rock and sand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, we were riding through meadows of wild flowers, descending
beautiful singletrack track and climbing amongst trees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The riding was a far departure from the
expected though we had been told that the route would bring huge diversity on
all fronts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHoHsYA8xI0FafN_e-VOpSCAOAJzTZGVIearX8Gf81VoRErcSDYt5wt9ASCmskbIXQ4WWfX5mp3-hqWIlvi-6PE-9hwOQobmaQpf8hIH7A36jNXg0fkhXeX0GL7BzMt2Tgwdakqzlggk/s1600/DSC02109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHoHsYA8xI0FafN_e-VOpSCAOAJzTZGVIearX8Gf81VoRErcSDYt5wt9ASCmskbIXQ4WWfX5mp3-hqWIlvi-6PE-9hwOQobmaQpf8hIH7A36jNXg0fkhXeX0GL7BzMt2Tgwdakqzlggk/s1600/DSC02109.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">So early in to the
event the riders were still comparatively close so we were constantly riding
with new people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Exchanges of each
others expectations for the days ahead and probing questions in to the level of
preparation that had been undertaken in the previous months took place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Day one would be the
one and only day I would ride with my Israel host Zohar, after a few hours we
drifted apart as Zohar focussed and progressed leaving Team UK, Myself, Ricky
Spring and James Olsen, to craft our own journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">As we rode we were all
too often reminded of our proximity to Syria with the sound of distant
artillery fire and the passing of abandoned UN posts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only some barbed wire fencing and a steep sided valley
separated the countries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Late in the day we
caught our first glimpse of the Sea of Galilee, a huge body of freshwater that
we would see from more than one side before the trail would send us southwest
to Tel Aviv.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking out from our
viewpoint we were optimistic in our estimations about how long and difficult
the navigating around this north shore of the sea would be, we were quickly given
some indication as a fast descent followed by an undulating trail led us to a
long road climb in darkness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">We soon decided after
this climb to call it a day at around 11pm and our first night would be spent sleeping
on the town football pitch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The following day saw
us caught up in a 100 mile mtb race that was winding its way around the Sea of
Galilee, even after only a day on our laden machines watching guys riding
unencumbered bag free bikes looked very appealing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the day wore on the temperature in the ‘oven’ was being
turned up and a midday stop next to a river to splash some cool water over us
before yet another long climb was appreciated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The route saw us head
north from the Sea of Galilee and take in a large loop before we could again
return and begin the climb of Mt Meron, the highest point on the route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The climb took us 4 hours and we
finally reached the top as it was getting dark.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The descent took nearly as long as darkness slowed progress
to then be followed by rolling hills before we could again get down to the
shore of the Sea and find another bivi spot this time in the corner of a
farmers field.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">On the morning of day
3 already a routine had started to build in regards to packing the bike back up
… from sleeping to moving in under 30 minutes, not exactly formula 1 pit stop
standards but acceptable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Our previous days
descent had left us with a leg warming climb to start the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Checking in with home the night before
Grace had revealed that we had stayed in a hot spot of HLC riders with 6 or 7
of us within a few kilometres.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was no surprise then that early in the morning we could see a rider in the distance
and soon after catching them we came upon another 2 though this time stopped
next to a parked up car.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">As it turns out the
German rider Ingo had broken his mech hanger on day 2 so had limped on with a
makeshift singlespeed until his wife’s family could source another bike for him
to continue on with.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">We set off as a group
of 6 but after James had some tyre issues we were back to just the 3 of us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Later that day we
would meet Ingo’s family again at a bike store on the route where Ingo had
taken another bike as his previous loaner was ill fitting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After numerous issues with the other
guys tubeless set up we took this bike shop opportunity to stock up on sealant
filled inner tubes, heavy but reliable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Then we left the shop
to ride another fantastic section of singletrack trail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Day 3 was a stand out
day not only in the event but I think also in my life, a single day I will
remember for my remaining years and for one very special event that took place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Late in the afternoon
we had just pushed out of a valley up to a roadside car park, the scene was one
of rubbish having been dumped but amongst the bags of building waste and dumped
wood came a little growl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Under a
bush a small puppy was concealed out of sight, his bed made from a sack he was
sat on with a number of makeshift water bowls near him but all dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The little fella had
lost a lot of hair but was so optimistically happy soon coming out to see what
we were up to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no sign
of any owner and his condition indicated he had been here for a while.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">We offered him up some
water and then looked in our bags to see what we had to offer him, I think I
knew that we couldn’t leave him here and that in stopping we had made a
commitment to him to make sure his life didn’t end as a dumped piece of rubbish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">A call to Zohar’s home
was made though no local rescue could be found to take him, our only option was
for me to carry him to the next village and hope that there would be someone
there that could help us out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Using James’s packable rucksack I slung him on my front and as Ricky and
James rode up the trail to check out the next village me and ‘Dusty’ enjoyed a
gentle roll through the valley as I discussed with him what was going to
happen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">On arriving at the
village several options had been found including a dog boarding kennel though
they were unable to help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All
hopes were pinned on a Kibbutz near the village.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the heart of any Kibbutz is a sense of community living,
a collection of good people helping each other out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My hopes were high and I wasn’t disappointed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I randomly stopped a
couple with some kids in the Kibbutz and this was a turning point in Dusty’s
life as these people were not only kind enough to help but knew people who rescued
dogs !!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was literally overjoyed
and leaving some money for Dusty I could continue on safe in the knowledge that
his little life had been saved and he would go to a good home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">After our dog rescuing
efforts we were shown another great example of Israeli hospitality as a local
guy had spotted James and Ricky in the village centre and invited us all for
coffee, which was excellent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">We pushed Mt Karmel’s
switchbacked steep climb in the dark to finally end our day in a clearing on
the descent .after 20 minutes of frustrating navigation trying to find a small
track that the darkness and dense vegetation just wouldn’t reveal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-11457698902142910202014-03-31T20:28:00.000+01:002014-03-31T20:39:48.154+01:00Outside assistance - Gordon Active by Gordon Tours<a href="http://holylandmtbchallenge.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Holyland Bikepacking Challenge</span></a> is a self supported event.<br />
<br />
The rules of self supporting are pretty clear in that while on the course you cannot receive any help that is not available to all ... so you couldn't have a support crew on the trail or have pre determined supplies of food and water ... it levels the playing field and makes the racing low budget and more accessible to all.<br />
<br />
However, there is nothing to say that prior to the event and afterwards you can't be helped in the logistics of your travels and that is exactly the kind of support that <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.gordonactive.com/" target="_blank">Gordon Active by Gordon Tours</a> </span>have helped me with.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIOEpTJtEdJzXFI9bPX_zRL3ZQZCxvKOmJu41L3z_HOf5g-mfDxMZpCoMvGXcqp8lSrCCPuX_EpXQ2indyt-Sxzwd3D3GU2EwJVNBaKaJ-JJD-Y8P-bUvmZqWikkZj9Y-0HwGi0KLq14/s1600/gordon-active_logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIOEpTJtEdJzXFI9bPX_zRL3ZQZCxvKOmJu41L3z_HOf5g-mfDxMZpCoMvGXcqp8lSrCCPuX_EpXQ2indyt-Sxzwd3D3GU2EwJVNBaKaJ-JJD-Y8P-bUvmZqWikkZj9Y-0HwGi0KLq14/s1600/gordon-active_logo.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Established in 1972 these guys are one of Israel's largest tour operators and active in promoting cycling holidays in Israel.<br />
<br />
Gordon Tours Ltd have been kind enough to offer advice on all aspects of my stay both before and after the event to ensure that all I have to worry about is packing the bike and turning pedals.<br />
<br />
Huge thank you and will see you guys soon.<br />
<br />
<br />paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-65523200146524316382014-03-30T15:43:00.002+01:002014-03-30T15:43:54.568+01:00A process of constant refinement.. thats how bike packing feels to me.<br />
<br />
Every time I come back to bikepacking I do so usually after a sufficient gap that allows some new thought process to occur as to what I pack and how I pack it.<br />
<br />
Obviously the nature of the trip to some degree focusses the equipment around a certain period of time or temperature but after that you can be as creative as you want.<br />
<br />
This weekend I had my first real stab at a super lightweight set up .. I was brutal in culling as much as I could. A friend once told me any idiot can be uncomfortable and I am prepared to be that idiot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ8Gvq4FzTxjX0o7VMb5Xh8bWI7vFTQS1L9aRjjlH3k3MORubTiBQHhQUX2iT0kVGTkO0Cjwgxjn5M83ug2HKdXTimLvXbGTG9x4QmjtEm-7gsQxhkjOqN7DivZOY7mkKZgwkz243FwYc/s1600/IMG_1681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ8Gvq4FzTxjX0o7VMb5Xh8bWI7vFTQS1L9aRjjlH3k3MORubTiBQHhQUX2iT0kVGTkO0Cjwgxjn5M83ug2HKdXTimLvXbGTG9x4QmjtEm-7gsQxhkjOqN7DivZOY7mkKZgwkz243FwYc/s1600/IMG_1681.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Israel is now only 2 weeks away and for once I feel ready.</div>
<br />paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-76881528324411278972014-03-19T21:49:00.000+00:002014-03-20T06:34:05.250+00:00Preparation timeWinter traditionally for most is a time to take stock and put in the groundwork for forthcoming plans of adventure. Whether the groundwork involves developing fitness or a lighter bikepacking rig someone passionate about cycling never really sees any real downtime .. we eat and sleep these adventures from inception to final blog entry.<br />
<br />
The start of my year saw my focus shifted from dreams of 2 wheeled adventures to those on 2 skis with a fresh and exciting challenge on cross country skis planned. When the final goal of all the training and preperation evaporated through an event cancellation disappointment was soon overcome by a refocus on the next upcoming challenge.<br />
<br />
I had always planned that 2014 was going to be a year I didn't pack a bike and travel to ride, after all the UK has so much to offer a rider of any kind of bike. With little notice an event that I guess had always been at the back of my mind became very much 'going to happen' and before I knew it flights were booked and within a day of deciding I was going to race across Israel !!<br />
<br />
Israel even for those challenged by geography is not in the UK so travel was going to happen, but then it always does .. best laid plans and all that.<br />
<br />
In 2014 the first Holyland Bikepacking Challenge (http://holylandmtbchallenge.com) takes place. Starting in the very north of Israel and finishing in the south ... the route traverses a variety of terrain from the green north to the desert in the south all the while immersed in an exciting mix of modern and historical settings.<br />
<br />
Unknown to myself at the time Israel has an ever increasing population of bikepackers. The entry list is brimming with Israeli riders some with some impressive previous event finishes as well as a handful of Internationals .. a great mix which should provide some entertaining riding companions.<br />
<br />
As a first point of preparation I joined the Bikepacking Israel Facebook group and began to go through previous posts and photos ...<br />
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The photos indicated that ahead of me was quite an adventure.<br />
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So preparation has started and as usual the set up used for my last bikepacking trip is not good enough so plenty of refinement has started. <br />
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The starting point is the 2014 Salsa El Mariachi Ti XTR .. I don't think I could get a better bike ... the perfect balance of comfort and speed. Add to this already great start some made in the UK Alpkit (Alpkit.com) bike packing luggage the package is starting to look pretty good. I am opting for 'less is best' with this set up so smaller bags and less gear.<br />
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Bike shown without a few bags .. I am taking more than my toothbrush ;) </div>
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A pair of Alpkit stem cells will house my stove and some food up front for ease of access.</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">For inspiration a Bunyan Velo (Bunyanvelo.com) decal is in clear site at all times :)</span></div>
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At the moment I still have another 4 weeks so the plan is to ride a big mountain bike loop to check bike position is good then the following week fully loaded riding test to make sure everything is where it is best placed and there are no annoying rattles :)</div>
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Next blog will hopefully be the fully loaded bike and kit details :)</div>
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Israel images courtesy of Yoav Lavi and the Bikepacking Israel Facebook Grouppaul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-73385589376819086812014-02-21T11:46:00.000+00:002014-02-21T17:56:28.714+00:00ALPKIT'd since 2009In 2009 I had just started in to a deal with a UK bike brand, adventures were planned but these adventures needed equipment from a more outdoors and camping style company so the search to find a compatible brand was on .. a company who would support me and work with me to make sure I always had the right kit for the job ... a short list was drawn up and in 2009 at an outdoor show which I can't remember the name a relationship was born.<br />
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I remember first impressions of the Alpkit stand at this particular show, as with Alpkit it was not only style but substance and there was offerings of all new kinds of kit. The stand was mainly staffed by friends and the people that Alpkit support and straight away that was a stand bonus ... a company with its feet firmly on the ground ( or in a boat or on a rock face) still out there doing cool stuff and appreciated by those they support. Frequently a customer would come to the stand and the discussion was usually along the lines of what kit they already had like it was a collection they were amassing.<br />
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So my first point of call was a sit down with one of the originators of the brand, Jim Evans, from the offset we were definitely all on the same page and I left positive that being an Alpkit sponsored rider was a fantastic opportunity. A few weeks later a 65l dry bag arrived stuffed to the brim with product... so my Alpkit adventure began.<br />
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From the initial meeting with Jim I was then in time introduced to the other 'founding fathers' ... Nick Smith and the brothers Col and Kenny Stocker.<br />
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During my time with Alpkit I have been mostly subjected to some wild equipment experiments in the name of progress with Nick and Jim using me to guinea pig where possible and Col and Ken documenting the process ... usually with a happy ending.<br />
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I trawled through my blog and pulled out some images that I thought summarised my Alpkit experience ..<br />
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I can say dealing with Alpkit has never produced a dull moment and the pictures don't go even part way to portray the experience through adventure that these guys have always helped enable and often come along too.<br />
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I recently made a trip to see the guys at the newish much larger warehouse, showroom and importantly factory and over a few coffees the future was discussed and promises even more positive experiences.<br />
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Proud to say I am an Alpkit'er :)<br />
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Huge thank you ALPKIT !!!paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-71923063473787458692013-12-22T13:23:00.001+00:002013-12-23T06:52:03.434+00:00When the opportunity arises ... ride it !<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">The bicycle for some is simply a form of transporting yourself from point A to point B but for the me its the reason too travel.</span><br />
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The formula I work to is very simple ... Find an event or a spot you want to travel too ... Contact as many local people as you can find .. Ride and sample someone else's local spot.<br />
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The cycle (no pun intended) is self perpetuating as the more you travel and the more people you meet the further your horizons are expanded. Chat to a new rider for 10 minutes and already you have another big stack of possibilities laid out in front of you. I believe as I travel through life that owning and riding a bicycle has opened up so much possibility and experience I would of otherwise never have had.<br />
<br />
With my simple outlook to take hold of any opportunity to travel it was not a hard decision to travel with Grace to a conference in San Francisco.. While Grace furthered her knowledge in her academic field I would expand my knowledge in my chosen field.. path, forest, road etc. With the destination set all I needed to find were the local riders and local spots to ride.<br />
<br />
The event of extensive social media sites has made finding people to ride with easy. Forget the seven degrees of separation theory as cycling is a much tighter knit community and you will no doubt know someone through only one or two friends. In this case my nearest port of call was Errin Vasquez in LA, sure enough Errin was quick fire to come back with 2 guys I could contact ... Erik Mathy and Andrew Gentry Law ... and as an added bonus Errin could make a trip to ride too. A plan was coming together.<br />
<br />
On arriving in San Francisco the first point of business was to get hold of a bike and luckily Erik had a Salsa Vaya I could use, only a size too big but it would be fine. The first taste of riding in SF was the West Bay area. Kindly picked up by Andrew we made out way over to meet Erik and Errin at Erik's place in Almaeda. From there the plan was simple .. roll some local tracks and streets and whenever the mood took us stop for coffee, beer, pizza etc.<br />
<br />
Straight away the mutual love of 2 wheels and riding eased the conversation along as rides past and present were discussed, coffee was drunk and local small stores were visited. Later that day we met with Lucas Winzenburg of <a href="http://bunyanvelo.com/" target="_blank">Bunyan Velo</a> fame and Gabe Ehlert, a local rando rider and talented designer of the <a href="http://www.boxdogbikes.com/products-the-bdb-pelican/" target="_blank">Box Dog Bikes Pelican</a> frameset. A plan for the following days ride was established.<br />
<br />
<i>Mt Tam and German Sausage</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Mondays ride started at the Ferry Building, Erik, Errin and myself were joined by Gabe and his friend Jake for a trip out to Mt Tam.<br />
<br />
The ride started steadily tracking along the bay toward and eventually crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, again another cool moment afforded by cycling.<br />
<br />
Mt Tam lays beyond the Marin headlands and as we rolled through the local towns I wondered when the climb was going to start. Every little town seemed to have provided the inspiration for a Marin Bike name so I tried to remember what each model looked like as a mental challenge. It wasn't long before we rode through a tree lined road to the start of the Railway Grade trail that would take us to the summit of MT Tam, both east and west summits !<br />
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<br />
The climb was a dirt road that never really had a huge gradient due to its previous use as a rail track for tourists to climb the mountain, but what the climb may of lacked in gradient it made up for in duration.<br />
<br />
We climbed in the sun on dry trails and it really was perfection on a bike. After a mile or so of climbing we stopped at the first view point, we sat for a few minutes and soaked up the view looking back toward San Francisco and scoured the hillside picking out the great network of trails that exist here.<br />
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From our first viewpoint we looked up and could just see the trail we were heading for and the forest service lookout point which was the first summit we would aim for, there was still a lot of climbing to go.</div>
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As ever the gradient was always steady, the sun was shining and the view and trail was superb at all times. Gabe took up the front of the group and steadily we made our way up even opting for the steeper tarmac section to finish the east peak.</div>
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There was a a variety of bikes within the group ... a definite lean toward the rando steel set up with the vaya filling the gap between them and Erik's loaner steel singlespeed mountain bike :)<br />
<br />
After the east peak there was still more to come with a short descent then the climb up the west peak .. after that though the descending started and it was as long as the climb !!<br />
<br />
Swooping turns were coming fast as I tried to keep Gabe in sight, I watched his rear light glow brighter as we dipped into more dense wooded areas the further down the descent we got, always mindful of the drop in temperature and the potential for patches of ice. Gabe quickly rode away effortlessly leaving us all to regroup at the base of the descent on a dam. <br />
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Discovering that at the base of the dam out of the reach of any sunlight a small pond was frozen so like a bunch of kids we spent a while throwing rocks down to listen to the crazy reverberation of rock striking ice.<br />
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All that laid before us now was another much smaller climb and a descent to lunch .. a German sausage joint with an entire wall dedicated to bike racks .. bike friendly ? very much so !<br />
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Stomachs full we rolled the last few miles to the ferry terminal and travelled back to San Francisco boat assisted.<br />
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Time for a final coffee stop was made then a roll back to the hotel ever mindful of the traffic and differing rules of the road :)<br />
<br />
A great day out with great people and one that will stay with me for a while.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>I love San Francisco</i><br />
<br />
I was lucky enough to manage a few local city rides after that and also a day out just me and Gabe where we travelled south and took in the beautiful coastline not to mention another epic forest and dirt road climb this time with more serious gradient and an even windier descent.<br />
<br />
San Francisco really offered me so much potential to ride as with little effort you can be beyond the city and in to some fantastic scenery .. something I am used to in the UK but trails and rides on a US scale are fairly impressive. New friends were made and more riding memories were stored to be reflected upon at a time when I cannot ride anymore ... such a fantastic place and fantastic people.<br />
<br />
I guess my biggest memory from the week was non bike related when I finally got the right place and the right time at Yosemite to ask Grace to marry me and she said yes ! A whole new chapter of life started from that point on with more planning, organising and travel to be organised .. but that's what we both love.<br />
<br />
Thanks Errin for the use of your images, Thanks Gabe for some good routes and excellent company, you taught me a lot about raccoons and a huge thanks to my new friend Erik Mathy for the loan of your bike and a few great nights out !!paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-27723427719845414572013-10-15T09:57:00.001+01:002013-10-15T09:57:06.465+01:00Winter Miles, Winter Smiles.In truth the saying actually goes ‘Winter miles, Summer smiles’ … its popular in my local road club as a mantra of encouragement to get out during the bleak north east England winter as come summer those who have chosen the cosy sofa over the damp saddle will then be put to the sword.<br /><br />I myself believe that winter smiles are just as important to set up for the coming years challenges. You come of winter deflated and demotivated then that’s the attitude you will take to your goals.<br /><br />Cycling is such a diverse sport that with a few variations on the theme of a bike you can see out the whole year and keep your riding fresh. Those blessed with actual real seasons seem to make the transition from thin to fat bikes seamlessly as snow descends (annoyingly to those without snow well documented across social media). Unfortunately the weather here at home to coin a Guitar Ted phrase is ‘Consistently inconsistent’.<br /><br />At best here we hope for dry, bright and cold though our default weather setting from October sometimes as late as April or May is wet, windy and generally bleak. <br /><br />I could opt for the cosy sofa and pay the summer price, I could grind out the miles senselessly in all-weather at risk of losing all motivation (I often have to) but what I would rather do is look for those winter smiles.<br /><br />The best way I can achieve my winter smiles is to mix up my riding as much as possible over winter though I don’t really want to wear all my bikes in mud and grit better to have one well-kept do it all machine, reducing time and money spent on consumables is also essential in winter smiles attainment… what I use is a ‘Do it nearly all’ machine.<br /><br />There is only one choice for me when I come to my garage to go riding… my Warbird. <br /><br />On the tin it says it’s a gravel bike though in reality it’s so much more than that. Its great on the road bridging sections of trail seamlessly, it rides efficiently enough to cover good distance, off road it adds an extra challenge to trails previously ridden on fatter tyres. These are not just traits only found with the Warbird they are also true of all bikes with some semblance to cyclocross bikes.<br /><br />The great Belgium sport of cyclocross has bred a whole host of variations on what was initially a road bike with better grip and mud shedding clearance.<br /><br />Not only can I race cyclocross every weekend locally fulfilling the desire to put on a number but I can also efficiently ride the trails to and from the race. My mid-week night ride is a mix of trail and dirt stitched together through winter weekend reconnaissance rides with friends. The Warbird is my do it all machine for winter.<br /><br />Every weekend is now spent with an exploratory Saturday ride with friends … we hunt for new and interesting sections of trail and path previously unridden, if we have always turned left at a junction we turn right, if we spot an opening in the woods we go for it .. often with many comic consequences.<br /><br />Weather and season don’t dictate the level of enjoyment you can have on a bike…. the bike you choose to ride, the people you ride with and the places you ride do.<br /><br /><br />As we transition from autumn to winter I am sure there are many winter smiles ahead to be had.paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-83244424899194880212013-09-18T10:16:00.001+01:002013-09-18T10:17:28.699+01:00Its back !! low tyre pressures and skinsuits .. Cross Season !A few years back I decided to do some cross racing, mainly just on a whim as it was something I wanted to experience more than anything. Being an 'Endurance' rider on paper cross really shouldn't suit me. After a few races and a steep learning curve I could manage a top 10 in local races .. I was hooked from then on.<br />
<br />
Before I realised it I was watching Belgian cross races in Flemish while I turbo trained and had bought myself a skinsuit to race in not to mention investing in expensive tub tyres. My life at the weekend was all about tyre pressures.<br />
<br />
The season after my first I managed to race only up to Christmas having to stop to train longer miles for the Dirty Kanza 200, last season I couldn't race at all with Trans Iowa so early in the year my winter was all about the big weekend miles.<br />
<br />
2014 is still a work in progress as far as my racing is concerned so while I decide on my race schedule I am taking all opportunity to get back out on a muddy field for an hour plus a lap.<br />
<br />
This season I have been lucky enough to enlist the support of All City Cycles in the form of a disc based Macho Man to race on ... after subtracting a chainring and adding some aggressive clinchers the bike is set.<br />
<br />
Last weekend saw my first cross race in near 2 years .. a fast and painful experience but one that has definitely reignited my love for the sport.<br />
<br />
The race was local, the weather was reasonable and the course was technical in its content ... technical in a cross sense is as many off camber tight cornering as you can squeeze in to a mile long circuit.<br />
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My bike handling was dubious but my overall fitness was pretty good ... good enough for a 9th place opener to my season.<br />
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The <a href="http://allcitycycles.com/bikes/macho_man_disc" target="_blank">All City Macho Man</a> had seen 20 minutes of use prior to the race and out of the box it felt great ... the steel frame is super comfortable whilst the geometry did its best to correct all my poor line selections.<br />
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Looking forward to the rest of the season, getting to know my bike a little better and improving my results sheet :)<br />
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Images courtesy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mark.straughan.39" target="_blank">Mark Straughan</a>paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6745736219819810194.post-41993627503905522462013-09-10T12:12:00.005+01:002013-09-15T18:03:59.139+01:00Birkebeiner Race Norway<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Looking
back through the blog posts I have made I can track a definite progression of
my movement away from mass participation events toward more low key intimate
events. I guess this is mainly as these smaller events tend to be the most
challenging ... the tougher you make something the smaller the number of people
who are gonna show to suffer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">So finding
myself on a start line with less than 200 guys around me didn't feel out of
place ... the fact that maybe 5000 had already started the event ahead of me
that morning and over the course of the morning 11,000 more would be joining me
was mind blowing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Racing
bikes affords me not only the opportunity to suffer with friends new and old
but also fulfill my passion for travel ... nothing gets you more ingrained in a
new place than being absorbed in to a cycle event. If you love the outdoors then at some point
you will of been alerted to the huge potential Norway offers, a nation of
outdoor sport lovers over all seasons this country has a lot to offer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">When I was
contacted by Singletrack Magazine about a ‘gravel’ race in Norway I was
instantly keen to know more, then when I found out there was the opportunity to
travel with a photographer to cover the event I agreed to do it, then when I
found out it was the largest mountain bike race in the world with an entry
field of 17,000 I was stunned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">17,000
riders !!!! The Birkebeiner bike race is
truly massive !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">The event
is a 94km race from Rena to Lillehammer using the network of gravel roads.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">The trip
started on the Thursday before the race with meeting my travelling companion,
photographer Henry Iddon (</span><a href="http://henryiddon.com/"><span lang="NL-BE">http://henryiddon.com/</span></a><span lang="NL-BE">), and 2 hours of wrangling with
check in at the airport due to some confusion over the ticket booking as I had
at the last minute replaced another traveler.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Having not
met Henry we quickly eased into conversation with a mutual love for cycling,
travel and general misadventure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">The Birken
race organisation had sent one of the organisers, Jean Francois, to meet us at
the airport and we were joined by 2 other journalists from Denmark and Finland
as well as a representative from Innovation Norway who look after the marketing
of tourism and trade of Norway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Jean
Francois took us to the town of Elverum where we would be staying some 30km or
so from the start of the race at Rena.
With time to kill myself and Henry took a look around the town of
Elverum with its interesting bridges and immaculately presented town centre, the
feel of a clean living kind of place was very apparent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Friday,
bikes built up and time to go for a ride.
A leg spinner was organised by Jean Francois and a local route of around
30km was led by the chef of the hotel we were staying in. We pedaled straight out of Elverum in to the
forest that surrounded the town. The
route was mostly gravel with occasional bike path, the weather was overcast but
still warm and the whole forest was absolutely silent aside from the sound of
tyres rolling on gravel.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
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<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">In the
afternoon after lunch we made a trip to the forestry museum complete with
historic chain saw collection and a tracked tractor for felling in the winter,
the walls were lined with pictures of seriously weathered woodsman, Norway is a
nation of people bred for the outdoors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">After the
museum we traveled to Rena, the town hosting the start, to sign on for the
race and it was here we got our first taste of the scale of the event and the
organisation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">As we
parked up on the freshly graveled car park we were told that in the last few
years the weather had been bad and the car park had become a muddy mess. In the
UK we would combat difficult parking ground by making sure the local farmer was
on hand to pull people out but the Birken organisation just bought a lot of
hardcore and surfaced the 1000 car parking area !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">The Birken
team is a permanent staff of 20 organising a number of large events all through
the year the biggest being the bike race and the XC Ski event. The sign on was in a warehouse they own, a
team of volunteers distributed the race packs from rows of wooden racks to an
endless stream of riders pouring in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">This is no
fly by night race organisation the set up is permanent and a masterclass in
race promotion.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0y3EJy_1DwBDUXq4eiXwTkUsJdjeNNDSLVDfMHNRC6CuSJVimTSmU1Sjx-f_MMpDl7cl6bmj5DvziM7RBjjloGMb6E19pgHA5jyeuqythKvR7dj_cDWvmTo3M1HINaKHx6ZVyzBlpD8/s1600/Brk_165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0y3EJy_1DwBDUXq4eiXwTkUsJdjeNNDSLVDfMHNRC6CuSJVimTSmU1Sjx-f_MMpDl7cl6bmj5DvziM7RBjjloGMb6E19pgHA5jyeuqythKvR7dj_cDWvmTo3M1HINaKHx6ZVyzBlpD8/s320/Brk_165.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Race day
was as always an early start with another of our party opting for the first
group off at 7.00am whereas I had gone with 8.30am. The race due to its size
offers 67 start groups at 5 minute intervals.
My start time meant that Henry could start at 8.00am getting far enough
the road to find a good spot to set up for a shot of me racing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">As we had
time to kill while waiting for out start attention turned to our respective
pack weights. An added element to this
race is the requirement to carry throughout the race a pack weighing at least
3.5kg. This pack weight is a homage to
an epic journey in Norwegian history made by the original Birkebeiners who
carried a child to safety travelling on dangerous tracks via skis. </span>Obviously
Henry with his equipment was well over the limit, Thomas the Innovation
Norway representative was about to embark on his first race so had nervously
over packed while the Finnish element to our group Petri had brought weights
from his training belt. My bag however
seemed a little on the light side and with a possible DNF on offer if I didn't
pass the finish line weigh in I grabbed a cobble from a ditch and shoved it in
my Alpkit Gourdon pack for good measure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">The start
of the race was textbook, nervous energy a plenty meant the early pace along
the first few km’s of tarmac was high, too high for my singlespeed gear. I was quickly dispatched toward the back of
our start group until we reached the bottom of the first long climb.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">As tarmac
turned to gravel I found it harder to turn the pedals, fortunately so did
everyone else in the group and I soon saw myself climbing past and beyond the
riders I had started with sighting the stragglers from the group in
front. As the climb continued the
weather deteriorated to low cloud and drizzling rain.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUhm34L5ghkV7tL2RJaiAy9bRNfF4-ozcdSXTTW_kN3nQyKWol8fQGB4LJpw2mcIffnirqxVdOquMXq9I0MSb3sLprsl4_lyNA2YnD3ivGkEnw4gxJS6GjrvFAXRk2R64vtA2aM8LIvo/s1600/Brk_303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUhm34L5ghkV7tL2RJaiAy9bRNfF4-ozcdSXTTW_kN3nQyKWol8fQGB4LJpw2mcIffnirqxVdOquMXq9I0MSb3sLprsl4_lyNA2YnD3ivGkEnw4gxJS6GjrvFAXRk2R64vtA2aM8LIvo/s320/Brk_303.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyrg2-KTaW_RQ93wtLjAg0GM34nLTtpd7Q3wlWTcJYj_pSfUNmfW57gsE9FyHC0mqnlW0fPYCA_vFmDpyHk6B0Vj1MtPjPMKu5IfgpSkN03-ESrL1G-5eAimdePSCXYgh_eQkvLqwydpE/s1600/Brk_315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyrg2-KTaW_RQ93wtLjAg0GM34nLTtpd7Q3wlWTcJYj_pSfUNmfW57gsE9FyHC0mqnlW0fPYCA_vFmDpyHk6B0Vj1MtPjPMKu5IfgpSkN03-ESrL1G-5eAimdePSCXYgh_eQkvLqwydpE/s320/Brk_315.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">The end of
the climb was proceeded by an extended period on the flat before descending,
with no gearing to push on I was forced to just sit and spin and it wasn’t long
before the hum of tyres on gravel could be heard. I was passed by what seemed like a constant
stream of riders. Damn !!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhU1vucEW5vJ3bPr7i6_VjGwISAtuZTMfCKY5mZrEAboimnfg2HoubbFq2cUfzZvIi_014lHtKm2vkvYZgbEiWNYoCv7lV1Dq67_k22pzybEfGYvd6ceaxoGCG9dHo70Ph_EGFwbS32Qo/s1600/Brk_421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhU1vucEW5vJ3bPr7i6_VjGwISAtuZTMfCKY5mZrEAboimnfg2HoubbFq2cUfzZvIi_014lHtKm2vkvYZgbEiWNYoCv7lV1Dq67_k22pzybEfGYvd6ceaxoGCG9dHo70Ph_EGFwbS32Qo/s320/Brk_421.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">When the
descending was loose and fast I had no defense against the faster geared riders
.. when a little more care was needed on the descents I couldn’t afford to use
any.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Every time
we would reach a climb I could turn up the speed having some resistance on the
pedals to push against and I would reel in rider after rider though I knew that
once I had ridden over 60km then the course trended downhill to the finish and
I would again be helpless against cassette and derailleur.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">The course
was on the whole a tree lined gravel affair but it was constantly punctuated by
groups of supporters who had turned out even in the poor weather to offer
shouts of support, cook up some meat on a grill and generally have a good time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzYANVkuhPW14yxQ3rNOfXf-YE_lO3o2-u2HTxjYLWukgUcb0M8pq72-afC6TLSEXeQokx_yN_MjzTcO-KfboETZ3zWwQCkdfNF-AThciz41hb0JNrNlG_L0XJJDXu5QLmSccvtpbirE/s1600/Brk_267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzYANVkuhPW14yxQ3rNOfXf-YE_lO3o2-u2HTxjYLWukgUcb0M8pq72-afC6TLSEXeQokx_yN_MjzTcO-KfboETZ3zWwQCkdfNF-AThciz41hb0JNrNlG_L0XJJDXu5QLmSccvtpbirE/s320/Brk_267.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yhQfqvqcbiU9pxTWaMze7gXCIq7QGzQu-i_7SSkdANCQrB69oomSAqgoM4bSRIxKiQJWkN2ijpoKXJwdvqx2YQ2sbAUOVp7kKKSszAAX_5LF_hzRYrB40zlwm6tWXUsVkSGV098OSTM/s1600/Brk_355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yhQfqvqcbiU9pxTWaMze7gXCIq7QGzQu-i_7SSkdANCQrB69oomSAqgoM4bSRIxKiQJWkN2ijpoKXJwdvqx2YQ2sbAUOVp7kKKSszAAX_5LF_hzRYrB40zlwm6tWXUsVkSGV098OSTM/s320/Brk_355.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">As I passed
more and more ‘Km to go’ signs a nagging pain in my lower back grew and grew, I
would normally expect some temporary discomfort racing hard on these long
climbs as you try to muscle the singlespeed gear but this wasn’t shifting and I
had decided it must be down to the pack weight I was carrying.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYK-UZCZiuPrU70WfadfbhtVBW1Ah-paOPqQWWk5fvzDairIDT_mkm6y9HDlFKCHT63zaJXqjmLiDgEcy_94A3H83mRp_yrPTumeJiZy1c2yqSnjMSxsZzxOMGLdvn38_-oIqkSNCQ9M/s1600/Brk_542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYK-UZCZiuPrU70WfadfbhtVBW1Ah-paOPqQWWk5fvzDairIDT_mkm6y9HDlFKCHT63zaJXqjmLiDgEcy_94A3H83mRp_yrPTumeJiZy1c2yqSnjMSxsZzxOMGLdvn38_-oIqkSNCQ9M/s320/Brk_542.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">With 5km to
go we past a XC Ski course and not long after we rode beneath the impressive
Lillehammer ski jump, its height and severity of slope testament to the lunacy
of ski jumpers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Directly
after the ski jump we rode in to a wide, steep and loose gravel descent. My brakes hadn’t felt great for the last 20km
and as much as the marshal waved his flag with ever increasing panic as I rode
toward him I needed all the run out beyond him to make the left hand turn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">A few loose
turns later I was done ... the finish village was huge with already thousands
of finishers and spectators enjoying the food and drink on offer. </span><br />
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2UFCC28ihZGs1ThCrU2lMHx8PR4sLid-uxj0qgbF0eq-8YR8aRb8afzJW9smsUlStXhoCxHa2IpQB8haPsJysydEvX2OwtRB2SJsaJLXm3Dip5AarbO6ufJP1frdHXoL78i68JaL2QM/s1600/Brk_618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2UFCC28ihZGs1ThCrU2lMHx8PR4sLid-uxj0qgbF0eq-8YR8aRb8afzJW9smsUlStXhoCxHa2IpQB8haPsJysydEvX2OwtRB2SJsaJLXm3Dip5AarbO6ufJP1frdHXoL78i68JaL2QM/s320/Brk_618.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span>
<span lang="NL-BE">Parking my bike up in the secure bike park I
was in real discomfort as I rushed to undo my pack and get the millstone from
round my neck. As I lifted the pack from
the point of my back where I felt the most pain I could feel the shape of my
last minute pack edition ... the cobble !! The stupid thing had been nestled in
my lower bike the entire race !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">After a few
trips through the finish line feed station and a shower I was back to normality
and able to enjoy watching the elite mens race on the large finish line
screen. The exciting finish of the elite
race unfolded as a lone solo rider who had broken away early was caught as he
did his best to steer a bike with a flattening front tyre down the final loose
descent eventually relegated to 3rd place.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">A huge
thank you to the Birkebeiner organisation and Innovation Norway for facilitating
this fantastic experience. I got to ride
an event I may never have entered and not having experienced it would of been a
real shame. I met new people and made
new friends. I got to take a look at the
cycling spectacle which is the 17,000 riders of the Birkebeiner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Even with
poor bike selection, less than perfect weather and a poorly placed cobble I am
enthused about this event and already looking at the possibility of taking part
in the Ultra Birken. The Ultra Birken
takes place the day before on a 120km course much more technical and exposed to
the elements ... sounds perfect </span><span lang="NL-BE" style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: NL-BE; mso-ascii-font-family: "Century Gothic"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Century Gothic"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span lang="NL-BE"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="NL-BE">Thanks to;<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="NL-BE"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="NL-BE"><a href="http://www.visitnorway.com/uk" target="_blank">Visit Norway </a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="NL-BE"><a href="http://www.birkebeiner.no/" target="_blank">Birkebeiner race Organisation</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="NL-BE"><a href="http://henryiddon.com/" target="_blank">Henry Iddon</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="NL-BE"><a href="http://singletrackworld.com/" target="_blank">Chipps @ Singletrack Magazine</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="NL-BE"><a href="http://www.alpkit.com/" target="_blank">Alpkit</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="NL-BE"><a href="http://salsacycles.com/" target="_blank">Salsa Cycles</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
paul.ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15295007789482804098noreply@blogger.com2