Ouch

There was a variation on the training yesterday - when I got home Amanda suggested we take the bikes out as she needed to grab some stuff from school and there was a pub involved at the end. Sounded good so kitted up and set off.

Bristol is not flat and my bike although light still takes a bit of effort getting up and down the hills and valleys. The effort was then multiplied tenfold when the gears decided to pack in after the 3-4 miles mark! I now only had use of 3 gears - not one small enough for the steep climbs and not one big enough to get any speed going on the slopes. Still I persevered, Amanda was doing well as she didnt have many gears to start with either.

We couldn't get the stuff from the school as it was locked up so onwards to the pub. Amanda had been before as it is where the teachers all go for their 'Friday' meetings after school! Cool setting right by the Avon river. I ordered a pint of old man's ale and Amanda had a half of Thatchers frozen cider, bloody nice especially as it comes out in the glass all frozen. With twiglets in hand we took a seat. After checking the map we realised that we had already doen about 7-8 miles. Not bad I thought, but it does mean it is 7-8 miles back! We decided to take the scenic route back along the river tow path. Not ideal circumstances considering the recent weather. Very thick mud and white trainers do not mix! Still it was a pretty cool ride and most importantly it was FLAT! Finally made it home just as darkness setting in (Amanda had very cleverly brought the lights for the bike and packing tape so I taped my lights on and was legal).

Just checked the maps this morning and it is showing we completed 15 miles, I really really feel it today as well. I do believe that the gym might have to be put off for a couple of days just until I am able to walk properly again!