FINAL DAY

Day 10 and the aftermath

Day 10 began at Duke of Gloucester barracks in Cirencester, with the team gearing up for what would be the final 100 miles of the journey ending in Northwood Barracks in Watford, London. Pre-emptive mint-ease was applied, clif bars were primed and bananas and bagels prepped so that by 9 am the entire team was lined up on the start point and ready to blast the last leg.

Riders took a deep breath and off they were to the sounds of my personal favourite song which the RSM insisted on it being played at least three times a day. Whether it was for the team’s morale or the suffering of my eardrums I’m not entirely certain. They sprinted off into the distance, and without the threat of another 100 miles for the day after they could really give this last leg all their energy. With tired legs, sore backs and a few mysterious blisters on Katie’s elbow this would take their bikes and bodies to the limit but there was still smiles on all the team’s faces even with an early wakeup. Without CSM Tuff’s boisterous happy starts to the day it seemed slightly too quiet in the morning and with the faint drizzle the final day’s weather wasn’t off to as optimistic start as some of the riders.

Swiftly into Gloucestershire, moving to Hertfordshire it became swiftly apparent that the riders really were pouring their all into this last day as the recces of the RV points became a race against time to make sure we were ready for them. The first RV, a garden centre car park was lit up with sunshine as we arrived and this only increased for the rest of the day. With the sun shining, the riders pulled in, with a slightly leopard like comedic spattering of mud on all their faces. Of course the usual front runners, Mike and Rob were mysteriously clean whereas Emma and Hannah seemed to have covered themselves deliberately for the level of clean skin was far outweighed by the muddy.

They consumed cake and clif bars in quick order and it wasn’t long before they had mounted their bikes and moved off again. The sunshine had boosted everyone’s mood and the Welsh cake was finally consumed so Anna could stop going to supermarkets and hunting for the most morale lifting cake she could find. Moving onto the second RV, in the clown command vehicle we received several phone calls from the other vehicles telling us the team were moving a lot faster than expected and could we please hurry up and find the RV because they were scared the team would outpace us.

The trust old standby of lay by’s became the last RV, just before Hannah’s home town of Tring, and it was merely minutes before the team came cycling in, and with Anna on hand to stick some much needed mintease on tired knees and backs they only refilled their water bottles, ate a quick sandwich and were off again for the final part of the final leg of their 1000 miles.

Then it was to us to move swiftly to Northwood camp, where we were once again given a warm welcome and waited eagerly for the team’s arrival. Both Zoe’s sister and Hannah’s father arrived to cheer them on as they pulled in looking muddy, tired but overwhelmingly pleased to have finished what all can agree was a monumental challenge but something all the team could be proud to say they contributed to.

A final ‘hang-time’ and smashing of maximuscle recovery drink meant that the team had at least the last bit of energy to take a finishing photo and then move to the minibus to make our way back to Cambridge.

Moving in the clown car, we managed to get lapped by the minibus and subsequently came back to a team who were getting ready for a celebratory night out at a local Chinese restaurant. Surprisingly Mike didn’t eat his weight in food but a good time was had by all and afterwards the team celebrated in style. Unfortunately I went to bed earlier than them so journalistic integrity prevents me from telling the general public what they got up to. All I know is that there was some skipping with a rope made of glowsticks.

The morning of oxford return dawned bright and early (too early for some) and we moved leisurely to the minibus to welcome their return and receive the results of the challenge. After a brief journey to London, where I’m sure the RSM felt the loss of the Fiat 500 deeply we arrived to see Oxford had already cycled to the finish line. After congratulations and comparison of injuries were shared we moved to receive results.

Although Cambridge didn’t win, we all received some very nice medals and the RSM was given a celebratory bottle of gin to enjoy without the smell of mintease.

The challenge may be over but the reason to donate is the same. Please don’t forget how much our riders went through, with Captain Trev, 2IC Rich and Rider Mike having cycled the full 1,000 miles and Katie and Rob not far behind on 950. Combat Stress and ABF need all the donations you can spare, not to mention the team really appreciate any money you can donate.

A huge thanks goes to the team, all the support staff and all those who turned up en route to cheer them on. It lived up to its name as a challenge but the team couldn’t have done it without Team Manager RSM David Shaw’s efforts. From someone who observed him all week, the effort and time he put in before and during the challenge was tantamount to its success.

Await an update with a link to follow all the pictures of the challenge. 

Thank you for reading,

Rosalie.   

Day 9: Cardiff to Cirencester

Day 9: Cardiff to Cirencester

As I begin to write this blog post the cyclists are currently stretching out from a long tough ride. As funny as it is to watch them wince as they try to touch their toes and Hannah saying she needs something to grab to pull her stretching out.

It has been a tough day, from crossing fences carrying bikes to having to walk up rocky roads with the bikes on their backs the riders have done it all as well as their 100 mile cycle.  It started with a grey day in Cardiff, where a large breakfast (not counting Mike who of course ate as much as the rest of the team put together) and Katie who ate a record six Weetabix ready for what looked to be a challenging ride. Three “badboy” hills (as described by Captain Trev) were there to dominate the satnav as the route was double checked and the RV’s put in place.

Moving smoothly through Wales the team were off to some of the RSM’s ‘inspirational’ music so they were off to a roaring start out of the gates of Wales OTC TA centre. Through the streets of Cardiff they streamed to the gazes of perplexed passers-by. One plus point of being the first team in this time-trial race is to be the primary team in every location; so their confusion is always amusing for the support team to witness.

Onto the first RV, a small layby in the Forest of Dean saw the rain increase and the introduction of a very welcome set of visitors.  Alex’s mum and dad appeared with his grandmother bearing two different kinds of cake, amazing brownies and some award-worthy fridge cake (made with Cadbury Chocolate nonetheless!). As we waited for the team to arrive, as the minibus arrived and we realised just how similar Alex and his Dad looked it was just looking down the soaked road to see when the team would come streaming in.

It wasn’t long before they appeared with rain streaked smiles which widened upon the visage of cake that awaits them. After wolfing down said cake to muffled compliments it wasn’t long until they were off to go and tackle the hills- this time on British soil. As the team disappeared it came to us to start discovering a new RV point, this time further into Gloucestershire as we waved goodbye to Alex’s parents and thanked them again for their support.

The RV wasn’t too difficult to find and we couldn’t really provide a sound system for the team as the roads were simply too busy, however it did mean we were at the RV- a pub in Seven Springs in Gloucestershire with a large car park that was perfect for our purposes. The Adjutant and our new driver to replace CSM Tuffs arrived, with the Adjutant’s dog in tow which promptly provided a distraction for the support staff who were waiting for the riders to arrive.

Whilst the RSM was waiting on the road in his luxurious hi-vis he received a phone call from the team who were insistent that they didn’t need the second RV point- it was only 18 miles to the finish line so they were going to press on. Much to the shock and awe of the support team so it meant that they were cycling about 40 miles without even a water break.

So it fell to us to motor straight to the finish line, with only a brief slow period to blast out more encouraging music. Moving to the base in Cirencester, whilst walking a dog trainer the team came streaming in. Finally for a brief cool down they cycled to the accommodation. The actual stretching session was the point of hilarity for all concerned as Emma seemed to lose all circulation in her hands and feet and resembled a zombie-like pallor.

However the team seemed in high spirits even finding the energy to mime out a skipping rope with Trev and Rob acting as the jumpers. It’s the last but one day of the challenge, and only 100 miles Is in the way before returning to London.

Please show your support on facebook, twitter and to the team members for this final push.

Day 8: Shrewsbury to Cardiff

Day 8- Death by incline

Today started in Nescliffe Camp, Shrewsbury where we had had a relatively quiet night before the next segment of the challenge. It was an unexciting night, with the girls joining the boys in their room to watch a film, and in the meantime Katie was once again receiving a sports massage from Louisa. She is extremely ticklish, to the point that when Louisa was working on her calves she managed to give herself a nosebleed from trying not to laugh too much.

The night progressed into early bed-time which was definitely necessary for taking on Wales, and the day dawned on Monday bright and cold which seemed to make for an ideal cycling day. Once again this stage began on camp so it gave everyone a little more time to make themselves ready with stretches, warm ups and in Mike’s case an excessive amount of cereal. It seemed no time at all before the girls were wheeling their bikes to the boys accommodation to begin the race, and there was once again a carried over sense of optimism from yesterday.

Then they shot off outside the camp, with Katie and Trev leading the group. It fell to the support team to establish the RV point today, which unfortunately today did not include any nice pub car parks. Anna had gone to the nearest supermarket for cakes, this time chocolate, lemon and small pink cupcakes with tiny flowers on top. We realised that the cyclists appreciate the small details when they have a milliseconds to eat on their breaks. At the first RV we were in a small lay by with a few interested drivers especially a tractor pulling a trailer full of potatoes. It felt somewhat odd to be honked at for being an odd group when it was a strange sight to behold in the first place!  

Then the riders arrived it was a flurry of activity; filling up water bottle with water and maximuscle powders, Clif bars and bananas with the aforementioned cupcakes. Once they had been wolfed down they were off again. It seemed like a relentless pace but they seemed unfazed by it, whilst still smiling and pacing up the hills that descended into Wales. We could tell when we’d moved into another country, not because of any significant barrier or passport control but because suddenly everything was in two languages. Some of this was confusing but mostly it made an exciting change from the road.

We followed the rider for a time, blasting out some music to motivate them up and down the rolling hills. Anything from hiphop to random music the RSM seemed overly fond of from the radio. The hills were challenging and yet they were pushing on.

The second RV was more challenging as it sat up the top of a large hill- an incentive for the riders to keep going as they saw us waving from the bottom. The incentive was increased by flapjacks as provided by Emma’s mum and some left over cupcakes from this morning. It was another rapid turn around, requiring only a few water bottle changes and a refuel of bananas and bagels. Then it was onto the pick up point which was a petrol station with a man who I’m pretty sure spoke English but preferred Welsh as his means of communication. ting us. Sitting now in the accommodation all we grateful for their beds, and even more so the food (Alex was heard to exclaim “They’ve got CHIPS!”) so it begins to start an early night to prepare for Day 9.

The riders all old hands at their 100 mile rides, so please donate to make all their effort worthwhile.

Thanks goes to CSM Tuffs who is leaving us tomorrow for family commitments and we’re subbing in a new van driver. 

Day 7: Altcar to Nescliffe

Day 7: Liverpool to Shrewsbury

Day seven began, with the riders looking optimistically out of the windows and seeing that it was in fact both sunny and not particularly windy. That optimism continued as we went to breakfast and saw the place swarming with cadets. After a few strange glances and a couple uneasy stares the team had had their breakfast and were ready to face the day. The servers in the dining hall had already expressed their surprise that we had arrived from Newcastle not to mention that the majority had cycled there.

With their reaction following the team began to warm up, with a few hopeful looks at the sky to make sure the weather held out. With Rob, Trev and Rich all applying “anti-chafe” cream it seemed that the team were planning on hitting the road hard today. Once again we started from the barracks so it meant the team could have a longer preparation time and give Hannah a chance to warm up her knees.

Then they were off, with the sun just beginning to heat up the road surface. Not long after the support staff followed, with a longer distance between the camp and the first rendezvous point which of course gave Anna more time to go and collect the now traditional cakes. Pulling into the RV point, the RSM and I were grateful to the pub owners of the Fox and Barrel who not only agreed to open early to let the girls use their toilets but also they provided us with a full tea-tray of teapot, coffee percolator and homemade fudge. Not long after and the minibus appeared, with Anna and Louisa bearing a vanilla tray cake covered in various sugary looking sweets.

The team were surprisingly speedy and it wasn’t long before they were upon us inhaling cake, bagels and bananas. Today they were full of compliments; for the weather, for the road surfaces, the lack of lake sized puddles and various other inanimate objects. Apparently Shropshire is full of angry drivers which added an extra treat to the roads.

Then they were off again, so fast that when the command clown car followed we didn’t encounter them for a while and even then when we deviated to a motorway they were still keeping up an impressive pace. I was reliably told afterwards that at the point between the two RV’s Emma collided with Rich’s rear wheel, and fell over at a traffic lights taking both Rich and Tom with her. Comedic falls aside, no one was hurt and the team pressed on.

For the second RV the luxurious pub car parks were a thing of the past and we were back on parking lay bys. However it was sunny and the wind was down so there was a general sense of optimism in the air. Not only that but Alex had managed to get a cycling hat for half price and the cycling shop “The Bike factory” in Chester had knocked £25 off for charity off of a bike repair. So it was a successful day all round. Then the team came speeding through, so fast that we only had time to throw their refilled water bottles back and they zoomed off with only moments to rest. It was that general sense of hopefulness that had begun with the day and continued right until the end.

We continued providing “dem tunes” as the RSM refers to the music we use to spur the team along when the roads are empty and we can provide some support. It followed for a few miles blasting out heavy beat tracks which seemed to match the rhythm of the pedals. When we realised how fast the team was cycling, it became apparent that we would need to get to the finish point which was conveniently Nescliffe barracks near Shrewsbury.

As the teams pulled in, not long after we had arrived to sort out the accommodation and feeding the positive mood was fully under way and it continued when Zoe found out she had access to a drying room and we had showers that didn’t require a walk through the gazes of pre-teen cadets.

Off to Cardiff tomorrow, bring on day 8!

Many thanks once again to:

Chris at The Bike Factor in Chester: www.thebikefactory.co.uk

And the staff at the Fox & Barrel in Cotebrook:

www.foxandbarrel.co.uk/ 

Day 6: Carlisle to Liverpool

Day 6: Half the climbs, double the rhymes.
Today started with an ominous grey cloud over Walcot, as we awoken in less luxurious but equally welcome surroundings to Edinburgh Castle. A grey cloud turned into grey rain as the morning progressed but a team start at the actual barracks with slightly cheering as it meant a 30 minute lie in from yesterday. The breakfast was a highlight as it included Frosties and then it was onto a final bike check and a turbo train to warm up Hannah’s knees and they were off on the next 100 mile stint.

A grey, drizzly morning turned into torrential rain that transformed into excessive puddles that gave the riders a sufficient bathing of legs, face and hair. The car struggled with the puddles so it wasn’t surprising that the riders took to referring to them as rivers. Both Katie and Rob took racing tumbles, with Rob suffering a detached chain whilst going up the hill and Katie failing to clip her shoes in. However none were hurt, and because of the rain they didn’t get any wetter. Optimistic thinking at its finest.

The first RV took place in a pub car park, The Shop Inn in Caton who graciously let us use both their toilets and car park. Waiting for the teams, once again lemon cupcakes and chocolate cakes were there to provide both sugar and incentive to keep going. Once the team blasted in, soaked to the skin they were provided with sustenance and foil blankets before zooming off again creating a spray of water as they progressed.
Moving off to the second RV, it was a grateful pit stop to refuel the command clown car and then some on the fly map reading as we commandeered a second car park The Corporation Arms in Longridge. It wasn’t long before the teams managed to overtake two support vehicles who had gotten stuck behind an accident on the M6 and came in. With only a large bar of chocolate and some French sweets were refuelled them as best we could with the RSM running to the pub to refill water bottles. As the support vehicles pulled in we passed bananas and flapjacks to the hungry riders.

After that it was a smooth car drive through some undulating and sodden ground that caused the tiny car to be drenched on more than occasion. To another car park the Lord Nelson pub in Croston. We seemed to have been especially fortunate with pub carparks for this stretch of the challenge. It wasn’t long before the cyclists came pouring in, to the grateful support staff who positively threw foil blankets and recovery drinks at them. Another day crossed off, now up to 600 miles. As we journeyed to Altcar Camp which was fully of cadets who seemed to find the presence of so many adults dressed in cycling gear or civilian confusing perplexing, but with a hot main meal in them the cyclists began their pre-race prep and began to bed down for the night.

We’re on the home stretch now, it’s 400 miles left and the riders are getting better and better. However I will take this opportunity to thank the support staff on their behalf. Anna providing cakes and this evening marshmallow creations, Louisa massaging all the team so they’re ready for race day tomorrow. Not to mention CSM Tuffs for his driving and patience with many bike shops, and the RSM for co-ordinating everything. The team are smashing the challenge and the support staff are helping every pedal of the way.
This is all for charity, please look to the right for the links to JustGiving. It would mean a lot to ABF, the Soldiers Charity and Combat Stress.

Finally thanks go to:
Sutcliffe’s Cycles, Cyclelife, Preston.
Cycle Centre in Kirby, Steven
For all their help.
Bring on Shrewsbury

Day 5: Edinburgh to Walcot,

Day 5: Wet, windy and downright hilly

In terms of places to wake up, Edinburgh Castle is pretty high on the list of ideally picturesque. A childhood dream of rider Emma, it was a spectacular place to sleep. Emerging from 4 Scots barracks, with an earlier start then the previous few days it was a glorious view stretching across Edinburgh across the cannons and the 1 o’clock gun. As an artillery enthusiast this made some of us particularly happy but mostly the cyclists were focussed on the road ahead. Especially as it contained a 7000 feet climb and some rather twisting and treacherous roads the teams needed all their concentration for the task ahead.

Setting off took a 30 minute drive to a “White House” as a start point, with the teams limbering up. After a check of bikes, an adjustment of water bottles and a quick run into the bushes for a few they were on the cycles and off, speeding away into the distance. Led by team Captain Trev they were quickly beyond eyesight and with the day starting off as grey and rather depressing looking the task ahead of them was on everybody’s minds. There was no doubt, however, that they would smash the 100 miles today as they had for the previous 400.

When asking the riders what the terrain was like, followed various expletives all I received in information was sarcasm from rider Zoe who replied “it was a bloody good warm up”. Hills followed hills and the cold didn’t help.

At the first RV, whilst still in Scotland and about 45 miles in we encountered some cold and hungry riders who inhaled cupcakes provided by Anna. Today they were cookies and cream, Mississippi mudpie and lemon flavoured and even if the team didn’t appreciate the variety because they don’t eat long enough to chew it was definitely a kind thought provided by Anna.

Then, they were off with enough time for Rob to eat another cake and cycle into the distance whilst chewing. Not long after and the clown command vehicle was off and found the riders attacking what was a brutal hill to our little car let alone a bike. We made ourselves useful and providing a wind block (and rain block at that point as it started to drizzle) but also the main morale was provided by our stereo. Blasting out “dem beats” to motivate the riders it became obvious as Rob and Mike pedalled in time to music as well as showing us that they still dance and ride was entertainment for the rest of the train.

Possibly the locals of villages didn’t appreciate “Sex on Fire” but the team sure did and whilst shouting support I managed to pass off a chocolate bar to Zoe mid-pedal. Later I was informed this was the highlight of her ride which made me feel somewhat useful. It wasn’t until we took a wrong turn that we realised that I needed to keep an eye on the map reading and not just the morale. Onto the second RV point and foil blankets were produced to keep the warmth in whilst they ate more cakes and flapjacks. It was then we were back in England, and onto home turf.

Then it was more hills, and more and more rain. Throwing out some more “pumping beats” we encouraged them along, especially as it got colder. At that point we needed to speed along and recce the pick up point. There seemed to be a lot of sheep in Cumbria, with many rolling hills that thankfully our riders didn’t need to traverse.

Waiting at the pickup point it wasn’t long before the team arrived and we moved into ambulance mode, covering the drenched cyclists in foil blankets and throwing them into the minibus to move out to Walcot training area which was a welcome shelter. After a hearty dinner where the Trev seemed to consume his weight in chocolate mousse the evening was spent repairing bikes.

Bring on Liverpool!

Many thanks go to Doug Ramage at Teviot Cycles in Hawick for fixing a bike and working magic on Katie’s bike. And to Emma’s taxi driver who reduced her fare for charity sake. 

HALF WAY THERE! 

Day 4: Northumbria to Edinburgh

Day four: Prime time for some inclines.

Day four started in Newcastle, with weather that made many question whether this part of the country was aware it was only September and it wasn’t time for Arctic winds just yet! 39 regiment RA waved us off with a breakfast to start the riders off on the right wheel, and with some jogging on the spot and a few victory laps around the car park they were off. With an exuberant shout led by Mike who was once again full of what seemed to be inexhaustible energy.

They set off and the car soon followed, with a look to the impressive scenery which was soon going to become the norm. Moving through Northumbria the navigation, purely from a selfish point of view it made a chance to look at the rolling hills and excessive sheep. Soon to move onto the first RV it was clear that the hills of Northumbria were on par with Yorkshire, and calls from Captain Trev of “Guys think of the chocolate!” echoed up the hill as he drove the team towards the point where the support vehicles were waiting with supplements, water bottles and sandwiches galore. Added to now the daily ritual of providing cake today was carrot cake which was swiftly consumed to the point that there wasn’t air between bites.

On that point, there was a call of “Moving out!” and the riders were off again to the calls of good luck and well wishes of a bus full of Canadians and Americans who were on a tourist excursion at the Scottish border. Prior to the drivers arriving we had been listening to a local man who was playing bagpipes in full Scottish regalia, which was combined with the game of “guess the nationality of the tourist”.

Then it was time to move off again, the car taking the same road as the riders which gave us the luxury of winding down the window and shouting out encouragement. Whether that was received isn’t clear but they’re polite enough to wave back. Up and down, the terrain was an improvement from yesterday and definitely from a car’s perspective the scenery was more then worth the effort. We were fully into Scotland now and having never visited before I was more than excited to see the Scottish heather and high mountains.

Onto the second RV, a layby in Lauder saw the team with bigger smiles as this time wasn’t at the top of a big hill. This time Anna had provided them with giant French Fancies which were inhaled as was cookies, sandwiches, bananas and flapjacks. It was half an exercise in how fast the team could eat and how fast the support team could provide them with food.

They were off again. This may sound repetitive but from a support team perspective, it is truly impressive to watch the teams move out at such a rapid pace after such a short break. With Rob Joles and his gangster sunglasses leading the pack, and rider Emma resuming the race as a ceremonial nod to entering her home city they zoomed off.

We leapfrogged with the team, driving alongside to yell encouragement, driving ahead and repeating the motion. It wasn’t until we were just outside Edinburgh and we were waiting to shot encouragement. It wasn’t before we realised that the cyclists were taking a while that the RSM set off in the car to see what was going on. We then received a phone call from Captain Trev saying “We’re at the Castle…where’re you?” to which we accelerated and found the castle with a few choice words given to the satnav that sent us to a random park. Arriving at the castle was an amazing experience and then staying in the 4 Scots barracks was a welcome reception. Moving swiftly to the Scottish Parliament to meet the Veterans Minister provided the team with some incentive as we were met by representatives from Combat Stress and ABF. Then it was back to the Castle to do some important admin such as eating chocolate and making beds. Priorities straight it was off to bed, ready for another 100 miles tomorrow.

Remember:

“If you’re stopping to rhyme, get on the climb”

Photos will be added at a later date when wireless is more reliable

Day 3: Hull to Newcastle

CUOTC VTCC Day three: Dedicated to Rich McLellan

Day three began with a bright and chilly start, the teams luxuriating in the Officer’s Mess in the Defence School for Transport with a large breakfast and a full recharge from sleeping in proper beds. It was the morale boost they needed to tackle what would be one of the more challenging days on the race- the intimidating climbs of Yorkshire. With a climb of over 2000 metres throughout the day  it wasn’t going to be the easiest of days but with the team’s spirits on a high they set off it looked like they were going to smash it.

As we moved on past them, it only took the power of the small clown car we were driving to realise that this route isn’t easy, with some steep inclines followed by dismounts that looked like they would require some serious control. But CUOTC was more than capable and having driven by them, they still had their game faces on and pedalled on. The only bump in the road, and the reason for the title of this blog entry was the stellar effort of team 2ic Richard McLellan.

Before the first rendezvous point, Rich’s bikes’ chain had snapped and the team had left him to press onto the first RV. The support van was dispatched to provide him to fix his team and judge whether he would be in distance to catch up. The team then arrived at the RV where driver JUO Gillespie had provided some much appreciated cupcakes which were swiftly consumed along hot cross buns, bananas, bagels and flapjacks. Then they were off with a tired nod and a smile, especially as Rider Huffie had made contact with the road simultaneously with her face and her knee it was inspirational to see her still maintaining good cheer as they pushed off for another leg.

Then, about fifteen minutes later Rich pulled in with a big smile and a cupcake was handed swiftly over. Not only did he look like he had just emerged from a coal mine with hands black from dealing with his chain but he had also doubled his pace to keep up with the team. A few moments later after he’d refilled his water bottles and he was off.

We swiftly followed in the command support vehicle and at one point thought he had turned off the route we had anticipated because there was no sign of him. Up and down the road was as difficult as before with a few tight corners thrown in for good measure, it wasn’t until about ten minutes later we saw a rider pushing on and realised that Rich had exceeded our expectations. Pulling in to provide some support and possibly a bit of cheeky drafting we moved off again thoroughly awed by his pace. Encountering the rest of the pack, we threw out more words of encouragement and again providing a car shaped windbreak for the riders to catch their breath after a particularly challenging hill.

Then it came to finding the next RV point, a car park just beyond a site that had some amazing views, not that we had time to enjoy them as the team rounded the corner ably guided in by RSM Shaw wearing a lovely hi-vis jacket. As they rounded in and ate sandwiches and biscuits faster than I’ve seen a mammal manage (with Katie consuming 6 biscuits in such a rapid fashion that she managed to give herself a ‘biscuit-headache’) they waited to refill water bottles.

It was then, with the chorus of Driver Anna’s shouts that we saw a loan and triumphant figure round the corner and pull into the car park. Not only had Rich managed something that many would think if not difficult possibly impossible, and raised the team’s morale to an incredible level but he’d done it all barely breaking a sweat. This is why this blog entry is dedicated to the tremendous efforts of Rich McLellan, whose initial concern was not for himself but the team, and managing to cycle forty five miles on arduous terrain was a morale boost for all concerned.

The team, after Rich had re-joined set off with Rich at the front and onwards to the final rendezvous with smiles and a few thumbs up. Promises of ice baths, massages, and all the bagels that Michael Cannon could eat followed them.

Finally waiting at the final RV point there was a sense of anticipation for the most arduous day so far. As the CSM walked by a car which had steamed up the windows in a rather suspect fashion we waited in a car park for the team to arrive. Not long after we arrived we saw them streaming over the hill in a proud blue train, with Captain Trev deciding to overshoot because once again 100 miles in one day is just not enough.

Afterwards we were regaled with stories, from dogs appearing in suicide runs in front of the riders to kamikaze pheasants diving in and out of the cycle route. It has proven to be an eventful day but the riders have more than proven themselves ten times over. Bring on Scotland! 

Many thanks to Dave from DB Autotech LTD. In Driffield, East Yorkshire who helped to fix our minibus and Debbie from Rustics in Driffield who provided the cupcakes that the team appreciated so much. 

Day 2: Peterborough to Hull

CUOTC VTCC Day 2 Peterborough to Hull

Day two began in infinitely better conditions to day one, with the team being housed in the luxurious TA centre in Peterborough, where the boys enjoyed leather (and in the RSM’s case) floral sofas and the girls a private room with an inspirational picture of Princess Anne to wake up to. After a longer sleep and a lovely breakfast cooked for us by the helpful 200 squadron of 158 RLC the cyclists, not content with only 100 miles in one day, decided to cycle to the start point rather then load up the van. After originally being quoted “only three miles” to the start point it turned into eleven bringing the total to 116 miles travelled today.

Shortly after the support team followed, the minibus driven by JUO Anna Gillespie and guided by rider Hannah McInroy-Naylor, the van with CSM Tuffs and team masseuse Louisa Saldahna and finally RSM Shaw, the team manager, and myself in what is affectionately referred to as either a clown car or a hairdressers car.

Team Cambridge were off to a speedy start, with the clown car finding an ideal location for the teams to come in for their first rest stop. After stopping off in Chapel Hill, Lincolnshire we received reports that with high spirits the team tackled a rather flat but extremely windy ride. Rider Katie is proud to state they looked more professional today and they ‘meant business’.

Then it was onto the support team, after assisting with refuelling the riders with both bagels and bananas (which may become a running theme to this blog- rider Mike has consumed over 12 bagels to date and Katie is struggling to count the number of bananas but estimates it will remain a steady four a day.)

Onto the next rendezvous point which was placed next a sadly unopened pub. Waiting there for a short period before the riders arrived WOCdt Katrina Tipler, a native to Lincolnshire appeared with a cardboard morale sign (“Go CUOTC”) and many words of encouragement. This obviously boosted the teams spirits in a noticeable way, as well as the lemon drizzle cake provided by the support team in celebration of Rider Alex’s 21^st Birthday!

After mainlining cake, bagels, Clif Bars and Maximuscle supplements the team were ready to go and hit the road again, cycling off into the distance with Katrina providing a windbreak for about three miles of their journey with her car- not to mention the loud music she blasted out. Combined with former CUOTC student Tom Wilkinson laying down a sign for the team to cheer at as they cycled by his workplace.

The success continued with the final RV point being outside Barton-upon-Humber where the team pulled in at a picnic area and engaged in some rather flexible looking stretches much to the amusement of the other road users. A swift minibus rider later and the team and support staff landed at Normandy Barracks, Lecconfield to a warm welcome in the Officers Mess. To the cheers of the team the RSM announced that there were proper bedrooms and bathrooms (ice baths anyone?) and dinner is much looked forward to.

Newcastle tomorrow, await more Twitter and blog updates. Please donate for ABF and Combat stress on the JustGiving page or text “ARMY CAMBRIDGE” to 70700. This challenge is all for charity, please give the team a morale boost and take the time to donate. Thank you. 

CUOTC's day one.....Breezy and Bananas

Day 1 Northwood to Peterborough- Windy is an understatement!

Day 1 of the Varsity Challenge kicked off with an exceptionally early start, the riders and support team waking up at 0500 in Cambridge after a restless night sleep in a loud drill hall. At 0530 we were en route to Northwood Camp where we were warmly met by representatives from both the Army and Navy who seemed equally bemused and grateful for our presence. In such a hi-tech and good looking base the nervous yet eager riders seemed to stand out so much more in their bright blue Cambridge UOTC cycling uniform.

At a brief speech by the camp’s 2ic (a former OC of the brilliant Artillery Wing for CUOTC) the team was off to a stellar start, speeding off into the distance. The mood had improved drastically from first thing in the morning when it varied from a depressing drizzle to what could optimistically be described as a downpour. It had brightened to a cheerful grey as the teams crested the first slope and disappeared from the supporters sights.

As the morning progressed Rider Zoe Rutterford (who had spoken excellently on BBC Radio Cambridge Breakfast Show) had a small pavement exfoliation incident which involved a change of wheel with many thanks to Richardsons Cycles & Accessories who came to her rescue. After that miniscule break CUOTC got back on the road with little other incident.

At the first rendezvous point in Puckeridge in Hertfordshire where a friendly local landowner let us pull over to resupply the riders. Though a few faces were tired, there were still smiles, especially after Clif bar consumption and a refuel of maximuscle supplements. Not to mention all the bananas.

And once again they were off, with the stamina astounding not only passers- by but also the supporting team. Then the next point was Hilton in Cambridgeshire, where a pub car park provided a perfect stopping point to once again eat a copious amount of bagels and bananas which seem to one of the main refuelling foods of choice.

The reports at that point was coming in with some strong winds which had rattled the riders but they’d persevered. Apparently riding at an obtuse angle to the ground wasn’t in the morning’s brief. Unfortunately Rider Rob didn’t come out of the day with a tan but the rest of the day was sunny and after the first sixty miles the ride got a lot steadier for the team.

Finally, pulling into the 200 Squadron of 158 Royal Logistic Corps’ TA Centre where we were given an extremely warm welcome. Followed swiftly by the riders who with some extensive and rather humorous stretching were ready for their large carbohydrate intake. After a large meal of pasta and rice a brief turbo training session for Rider Huffie who is subbing in tomorrow to get her legs going it was time to head to bed.

Not only does our room in the TA centre smell of Mint-ease and the almond oil that masseuse Louisa is using to make sure  the riders are geared up for tomorrow but there is the faint smell of banana lingering in the air….

VTCC Launch....

VTCC Launch & Preparation Day

The VTCC launch began with the team journeying down to our TA Centre in Cambridge the night before. A combination of ‘carb-loading’ which I’m reliably informed is when you eat a copious amount of pizza for legitimate reasons and psyching up for the challenge itself transitioned smoothly into an early morning drive down to Horse Guards Parade in London.

When we arrived the only person standing to represent Cambridge was rider Katie who looked mildly intimidated by the swarm of Oxford team. Cambridge quickly assembled and soon the bikes were wheeled out to the rather confused looking tourists who couldn’t seem to decide which to take photos of, the changing of the Guard which was about to occur or the lycra clad students.

As the changing of the guard took place, Cambridge took the opportunity to go and watch with a few braver tourists who came to enquire what we were doing and what the challenge was all about.  After all this had occurred both Commanding Officers for both Oxford and Cambridge arrived, and instantly became a London Tourist Attraction, and in particular Colonel Pollington seemed happy to oblige those who wanted photos with him in his uniform.

Finally, Jon Snow pulled up on his bike in a rather unlikely combination of jeans and a suit jacket and tie. As riders from both teams assembled to be addressed by a representative of ABF and then Jon Snow himself, both spoke with great words of encouragement for the teams reminding everyone just how vital fundraising like this is for both charities.

This moved to Jon and the teams lining up for a ‘victory lap’ around the parade with some rather intrepid photographers braving the bikes and crouching down to get important shots of both Oxford and Cambridge.

Truthfully it was an inspiring day, both witnessing the Changing of the Guard and hearing both charities explaining why this money is so important. All will begin tomorrow with Cambridge setting off at 0900 from Northwood. Please donate generously and follow this blog for Cambridge’s progress through the Varsity Triple Crown Challenge.