Sunday 4th June 2017
Map
After a good breakfast at 7:30 it was pack the bags, sort out the bike and sort out what to wear. I had set out my cycling clothes last night but got up this morning to poring rain so quick change of plan to wet weather gear.
We all met up outside the hotel at 8:15 for the 7 mile ride to Lands End. When we got to Lands End the sun came out so it was all change again. The place was crawling with cyclists at 9 o’clock on a Sunday morning, all taking the pictures at the famous sign. There were 3 groups setting off for John O’Groats – 20 Americans/Canadians taking 3 weeks a charity group with about 15 people taking 10 days and us. Plus there were others just doing the ride with all there gear on the bikes.
We eventually set off at about 9:30 with the first ride to the morning “brew stop” at about 12 miles with a few ups and downs and nice flat section through Penzance. Take a look at the brew stop supplies and the view from the car park.
Lunch stop was another 21 miles on with a great many ups and downs. I think that the front in Penzance is the only flat bit of Cornwall.
After lunch the real climbing started. First we cycled 5 miles to the King Harry chain ferry once again up and down. Long wait for the ferry to go while a huge ship was tugged up river. It only just fitted the river.
After the ferry was the first of two long steep climbs. This one was about a mile long and had gradients up to 16% – had to stop half way up to start breathing again. The second monster come after the afternoon brew stop and only about 3 miles from the finish, this was not as long but went up to 18% – once again needed a breath brake.
Totals for the first day:-
65 miles
1,392 meters of vertical climbing
5 hours 26 minutes riding
Average speed 11.92 mph
The problem with these steep ups and downs is that it can take up to 5 minutes to get up them but you only get a 1 minute rest on the way down.
My hotel in Fowey is right at the top of the hill but I have nice room,
Had a nice meal in Fowey but it was a long steep walk back – as if I needed any more hills today.
Looking forward to tomorrow with even more hills than today.
Well done Martin. Your first day completed and it certainly didn’t sound an easy one. Food looks good though on the way. Have a good nights sleep and enjoy tomorrow. Xx
Such a lovely part of the world. When you crossed on the ferry you went past Trelissick gardens so don’t envy you that climb. Well done for achieving the first part of your amazing journey, looking forward to your further blogs.
Day 1 done and dusted. Only 13 more to go. Looking forward to seeing you Tuesday. Very proud of you. Love you. Xx
You’re looking really fit Martin. You’re going to have a great time.