Journal

Pedal for Scotland 2012

I felt more at ease with Pedal for Scotland from the moment I decided not to attempt the 113 mile sportive route. The 47 mile challenge ride just felt like a more manageable distance that I wouldn’t have to worry about extensively training for. I didn’t even feel any shame about switching from my original sportive entry to the challenge ride, as after struggling through the Graeme Obree Sportive and doing the Great Scottish Run I knew it was a wise move.

As last year’s event had demonstrated, being entered as a team with the lads didn’t mean we’d ride together, either. Their higher level of fitness on the bike just meant that I got left behind and it was a solo affair anyway, so switching to the challenge ride and focussing on my own level of performance seemed like a way of maybe enjoying the event this time around.

Continue Reading
Journal

The Great Scottish Run 10K 2012

It was only after doing Tough Mudder that I had the idea of doing the Great Scottish Run 10k. I thought I’d dislike the running, but it turned out I actually enjoyed heading out for an hour to build up my stamina. I figured that rather than let the running fitness fade away I’d keep at it and enter the 10k alongside my sister, Hazel.

I assumed we’d do some training rides together, but Hazel, Ian and the kids went off on an epic tour of a holiday at the end of July. Then when they got back Hazel developed a bad chest infection that she never quite got over in time to build the miles up, so ultimately she decided not to do it. After my experiences attempting cycling events when I’m not quite fit enough, I can’t say I blame her.

Leaving the house for the first train to Glasgow on a Sunday had me feeling a bit sleepy, but it was cool seeing all the other people with numbers on their t-shirts joining the train on the way. The train was mobbed by the time we got to Glasgow and I could feel the excitement building!

Continue Reading