Introduction

I can't remember the exact date of the big idea. I do remember reading the CTC (Cycle Touring Club) pages and getting onto the discussion board about cycling from Land's End to John O'Groats. I quickly realised that this was possible, and that even I could do it. After all it's said to be possible with any bike (it's been done on a penny-farthing) if one is reasonably fit and willing to take up the challenge. So I started planning. Most of the gear I had from doing long-distance walks would suit the cycle ride, but I needed a new tent and decided to get a good touring bike and trailer to take the weight. There was a great deal of thinking and planning over several months, and then came my 40th birthday. My mum and sister made the most amazing cake - three cakes representing the three sports of triathlon. So I began to think about three challenges... why not? I'd always had in mind to try for an Olympic distance triathlon but thought it beyond my capabilities - well I could train, couldn't I? And why not top off the challenge with a half-marathon? That should do it. So a year of swim, bike and run. But mostly bike.