Today marks 5 years since I began the ride from Perth to Sydney in 2006. As such I have decided to write up the journal I kept with me along the way. As an opportunity for me to revisit this experience whilst helping (I hope) with building motivation for training coming into the next thing on the list. Port 2012.
10.9.06: Prelude
Weather: overcast, warmish (20 to 22), dry
Days Stats: 50.70km, 2hrs 27mins 59sec, 20.5km/hr (computer started only on return trip)
Having arrived yesterday in Perth and directed the Taxi driver to our accommodation in Bassendon, a relaxed afternoon setting up the bike and taking a quiet stroll through the vast metropolis of town helped ease any nerves about the task ahead.
Having accomplished the most desired aspect of camp travel, a sound nights sleep(a new air bed being a most inspired purchase). I awoke at 6.00am ready to make the most of our rest day in Perth.
Following a quick breakfast, 8 of us (Jim, Les, Allan, Steve, Paul, George, John & Myself) set off for the journey. A short and easy 40km trek to Cottesloe to ensure "Coast to Coast" could truly be claimed.
With the 1st puncture repaired (within the first 5km) a most enjoyable time was had cruising along Perth's cycleways to the beach.
Photo's and a brief swim later & it was coffee time. Cappuccinos in Fremantle to the sounds of a 17 yr old busker (who unfortunately was yet to reach that point in puberty at which a Males voice breaks) and the day was rolling along nicely.
And then, we tried to get back. Some false starts and a couple of wrong turns soon found us heading roughly in the right direction. Even if Perth did appear to change its relative position on a 5 minute basis.
A 'quick' detour into Como and we continued along the the visually pleasing banks of the Swan River. 50km, 60km, 70km.
I was beginning to wish I'd taken the time to tape my troublesome knee. I have done these distances many times in training. However my mind was in rest day mode & I was struggling not to 'Snap'.
78km total riding, 52km back from the coast & we made it to our accommodation. Not bad for a rest day. R.I.C.E.R, shower (hot) and food. We have guest status at the Bassendon Church of Christ 7pm service tonight and I think Im talking.
Concerned about knee, will get over myself.
Punctures: me (0), group (1)
Indian-Pacific sightings: (1)
Brain snaps: mild (1), moderate (0), max (0)
10.9.11
Today has started well with last nights W2G by night once again being a great evening out. Ended up running with Rodthehornet and vstaR. For a very social 2hrs 47mins down to the causeway. this bought us in at around 12:30am and allowed plenty of time for socialising under the moon by the gate. To the warmth of Sleep Trains creation.
All up around 15 people this year. With a large number pulling out between 5-7pm through fear of wet weather. In the end though it turned into on of the best nights for running you could ask for. A crisp air sat on Woodford with pristine views to the lights of Sydney provided over the 1st 10-12km.
The spookiest moment coming around 1km before the gate. When I swear I heard a youthful giggling coming from the bushes to my left for about 5seconds or so. This is prior to the single track starting and at a touch before midnight freaked me out a little. Particularly given my recent story's of Naughty Nellie to the Snr Gnomes on their Outdoor Rec hike.
It appears everyone who made the journey had a great time. With smiles all round the fountain of warmth and story's of singing their way down the Oaks in abundance. SWMBO was envious to say the least. though her social spirit was fairly low when I returned just before 3am to an unsettled Evie.
As always I look forward to W2G 2012. Hoping that many more will make it out to enjoy what is one of my favourite runs of each year.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment