Day 7: Kakamega to Kisumu - FINAL DAY CYCLING!!! only 53 km

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Our final day of cycling and not too much to do only just under 60 km!!!!!!!!! Exhilarated by the realisation that this would be our last day in the saddle - I woke up surprisingly early. Another 7.30 am start. Hoping that next week on holiday I will get to have a lie in!

No rain in sight and everyone's spirits were high despite all of us being tired. There was an odd mixture of excitement and sadness - knowing the challenge was coming to an end. We cycled the first 20km which was so beautiful and with two big-ish hills. Nothing in comparison to the 26km hill. In reflection this final day was so easy because I knew the end was in sight. We stopped at the equator again for one final visit before regrouping closer to town where we cycled as a group with balloons to Kisumu.

My trusty steed

Getting ready for the last 10km

It was wonderful to be with the ladies when they crossed the finish line for some of them this has been a trip which they have been working on for over 18 months. In the end the cycling became part of a daily routine and all the days have merged into one long memory. The sights I have seen over the last few days will stay with me for a long time to come. The Kenyan Rift Valley is so beautiful, fertile and green, with crops of all varieties. We have had such fantastic support by the majority of Kenyans - particularly the children who were always smiling and encouraging. I've meet 71 inspirational women who have shown that women do know how to take on an extreme challenge and win. More than that they have fundraised a staggering £300,000 for charity. The work involved in that cannot be underestimated.

Thank you to each one of them for allowing me to be part of their Cycle Kenyan Challenge.

Group 2 Cycle Kenya - at the finish line!

I haven't given up my cycling shorts yet but it might be a while before I put them on again!

Day 6: Eldoret to Kakamega 93 km

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After the excitement of the day before waking up at 6 am to do 93km wasn't a happy thought. When I went down for breakfast I realised that I wasn't alone in being rather tired. It seems most of the other women felt the same. The start of the day was extremely hard work. Dubbed Day 3's little brother it consisted of quite a few undulating hills. The first hour was tough but I have now understood that it takes between 30 minutes to an hour to start feeling good in the saddle. The pain in my calves slowly eased and I relaxed into the ride. Within the first 30 minutes, I managed to get splashed by a bus and covered from head to toe in mud. This caused a bit of controversy as people kept asking me if I was OK because it looked like I had had a serious fall. I am told by those who saw the incident it was a classic 'have you been framed moment'. What's a bit of mud to an ex-archaeologist?!

The scenery was truly gorgeous. Rolling green countryside filled with corn, sugar cane and lots of tea plantations. People and kids lined our route shouting greetings at us. I cycled alone most of the day but I felt it was a good time to reflect on yesterdays cycle and the ride overall. Lunch was outside in a small estate (we have had very good food). Today I felt exceptionally hungry must be the 250km of cycling I have already done!

Covered in mud!

As with yesterday the last 20km stretch was hard as it began to rain rather heavily - soaked through again (my trainers may never dry off). Although while sheltering in the rain I had my second marriage proposal of the week! A man in his 50s who after a few minutes of talking to us asked me to marry him. He also asked me if I could come and meet his mother who lived around the corner. Sadly had to decline his offer.

We had an hours bus transfer from the last cycle point to our hotel for the night. Had a brilliant dinner at the hotel and there was even time for a dip in the pool (which was unexpectedly very cold)!

Kids that we gave a gifts of toys and stationary to on our route.

View along the route

Tea plantation

Making sure we get enough pictures of the view!

Day 5: Kabarnet to Eldoret - 85km

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Starting the day

Today was dubbed the most difficult day! Let me tell you it was. We had a 5.15 am start, transferring on buses from Lake Baringo to Kabarnet. Two and a half hours on a very pot holed road. Arriving at around 8/8.30 am we set out. The day consisted of the following: 16km of downhill, 26km of uphill and around 35 km left to get to the hotel. How can I describe today: tough, mental torture and painful but also beautiful, uplifting and insane! The 16km of downhill was soooooo cool. It seemed to go on forever and we got some incredible views over the Rift Valley. But once you go down you know you have to go up!

The uphill was staged, bronze (6km), silver (15km) and gold (26km - the top!). At any time we could say we had had enough and jump on a bus. I decided early on that I wanted to try my best to get to gold but if I was really struggling I would allow myself to step down from the challenge.

I cycled with a few different women on my way up the hill. Gemma, I found lost on the side of the road post a thorny bush attack! Poor thing, she had fallen off her bike into the thorn bushes and managed to get thorns stuck everywhere - really awful. I managed to prop her up with M&S jelly beans (thanks JCCT team! They really did work) and we cycled together up the mountain. It was great to have company on such a demanding physical challenge and we were able to motivate each other. I also cycled some of the way with Amrit. I want to thank both of them because being with Gemma and Amrit meant that I was able to distract myself from the reality of cycling up such a massive hill. It was tough and the heat combined with the continuous steep slop meant that it seemed never-ending. The last 2 km were really arduous and I almost stopped (being stubborn I didn't let myself stop). But I am pleased to report that I made it to gold!!!!

However, randomly I had no reaction at all. Everyone else was quite emotional about reaching the submit. I felt so physically odd when I reached gold that I couldn't feel anything emotionally. I felt emotionally empty and had to eat a lot of chocolate to make myself feel better (burned ! After a lovely alfresco lunch of pasta and veggies. We waited for the few finally cyclists and headed out on our final 35 km stretch. This was probably worse than the hill. I was so tired by that point I'm not sure who cycled the last 35km. My body was physically cycling but mentally I was so worn out. The sense of relieve at reaching our hotel was palpable.

It was wonderful to have experienced the atmosphere today, everyone showed a great kindness for their fellow cyclists. Motivating and supporting each other all the way. Every single woman put in 100% effort into todays ride. It was brilliant to watch and be part of. I wouldn't want to do it again but I really am glad that I did it and made it to the top!

Only 93km to do tmrw!! Fourth day of cycling...

More pics can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.796540735850.2285955.202909845&type=1&l=2b3290ff29

Day 4: Nyahururu to Nakuru (transfer to Baringo) - 57 km

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This should have been a much more relaxing day compared to our first day of cycling. A shorter day with less hills. However as it turned out there were a few hills (I think they may have tried to down play the magnitude of the hills) and we got rained on rather a lot. 

Thompson Falls our starting point

The first 30km of the day was fantastic, brilliant scenery and good company. The last 30km was accompanied by torrential rain. It didn't stop and was monsoonal in its quality. When it first started I assumed it wouldn't last long, also assumed I wouldn't be able to get any wetter. I clearly could and did...as we arrived for lunch we all looked like drowned rats. Soaking and really cold (would you believe that you can go from 30c to freezing cold in a few hours). We sat shivering in our outdoor restaurant. Our team took pity on us and managed to get our bags down from the buses. We changed alfresco and I had to wring out my socks and cycling shorts - nice!

Styling the cycling look

We transferred by bus to Lake Baringo. There were a few misadventures with massive potholes and dirt track roads - but all the mishaps were made up for by the view over the lake. We went down to the lake to see crocodiles. Their tiny heads popped up out of the water. Really cool. 

Lake Baringo

Shoes drying out after a long rainy day!

Tmrw is the big hill day! We have a two and a half transfer by bus before we start...scary

Day 3: Nyeri to Nyahururu - 98 km

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Our first day cycling!!!! It was a REALLY tough one: beautiful, hard, never ending hills and a true challenge. I think I assumed (incorrectly) that our third day of cycling (Day 5) would be the toughest. But if this was anything to go by Day 5 is going to be a killer. 

Kicking off with an early start at 5.30am we were ready to start at 7.00 am. I am really rubbish in the mornings - not someone you want to speak to, let alone exercise with!  As we went down for breakfast up you could cut the atmosphere with a knife - I was running on pure anticipation. The fear and excitement of the unknown...  

Group 2 Cycle Kenya - just before we started our cycle challenge

Saddled up and ready to start the day we had to do a warm up. Always slightly awkward (I personally never stretch before cycling) but it was a pretty funny sight: more than 70 lycra clad women! Warmed and ready to go it was my responsibility to carry the pink horn – our version of the Tour De France’s yellow leaders t-shirt. As the first to be honoured with the horn I had to lead the group out of the hotel and we set off on our first 20 km. I LOVED the first 20km – some big hills to contend with but we set our own pace. I rode with Rachel and the other Claire. The time sped by and when we reached the checkpoint I felt as though I didn’t need the break! Little was I to know what was to come…more hills far too many to count. 

By lunch a mere 66km completed I felt wrecked. It was a really difficult ascent – not impossible but tough. I think this was made harder by the heat and altitude. While we’re not likely to suffer altitude sickness – it’s not high enough but usually you would need a few days to acclimatise before exercising. Going up the hills was definitely harder. I now have lovely paw marked hands because I forgot sun screen on the backs of my hand! Suffered from a bad headache but was able to use my huge drug supply to get myself back in gear! Also employed my old field excavation technique of dousing my head with water – no sea to dip my head in – but we have water canisters for just such a purpose. The scenery has been absolutely gorgeous! As we cycled we caught a glimpse of Mount Kenya – heavily obscured by cloud but it was peaking through (as we were told by the Minister for Tourism in the region it must have been shy with so many good looking women – he clearly appreciated lycra!).

I find it hard to describe the scenery because the vista was so beautiful, fields of fruit, vegetables, and sugar cane. Lots of kids lined the route to cheer us on and they like to shout: 'how are you' very loudly. At first this was fun but after a whole day of 'how are you' it got a bit annoying!

It was a really tough day and the last 20 km was a strain - mainly because I was so knackered. BUT we all made it. A truly extreme day, with far too many long hills for my liking. As I arrived at our hotel, Thomson's Falls Hotel, Nyahururu I felt tired but relieved great start to the Women V Cancer Cycle Kenya Challenge.

Day 1 and 2 - London to Nairobi and then to Nyeri

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As we met at Heathrow there was an air of anticipation and excitement - a heady mixture. We were all in our Women V Cancer t-shirts and given that there were 71 women in pink it wasn't difficult to find each other! Our tour assistant, Anna and our doctors, Sophie and Sarah were also with us on the plane out (lucky them - hope the doctors had some valium with them!).

The flight was uneventful and those of us who were able to slept did so, the rest of us like me, lay there too excited to sleep!

Monday morning we arrived blurry eyed in Nairobi. We were met by our second tour assistant Gideon and Action for Charities, Ann F. Straight onto a bus and on our way to Nyeri - the start point for our cycle ride.

At the Baden Powell Museum

Nyeri is Kenya's 8th largest town and the administrative capital for the Central Province. It is located in the Aberdare National Park with stunning views of Mount Kenya. Nyeri is famous for its links to Lord Baden-Powell and we visited Baden Powell's house now a museum and we got a chance to try out our bikes by cycling down to the museum. You can feel the altitude up the hills!

We had an hour or so with our fab bike mechanics to get our mountain bikes in shape. I managed to get my lovely gel, ergonomic saddle and my kit bag on to the bike. Still waiting nervously for the day when I get a puncture (in all the time I have been training I have never had a puncture - thank you puncture resistant tyres - you were worth the money but now I have no idea what to do if it happens). Anyway, all of us have prepped our bikes and are ready to go at 7 am tmrw! It is going to be a tough day with multiple hils and heat to contend with but we will end of up an elevation of 2200m and have some beautiful scenery to keep us entertained! Wish us luck.

We've just had a great meal, and about to turn in for the night in our fantastic hotel, the Green Hills, willing the night to go fast so we can get on with our adventure!!! More soon...

Some pics:

 

More pics are on FB: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.796540735850.2285955.202909845&type=1&l=2b3290ff29 

Slow internet so sorry for not posting more...

The battle between excitement and extreme fear - which will win?!

In 46 hours, I'm leaving with 70 other amazing women to go on an adventure!!!

Am I ready? Hell no but are you ever ready for 400 km?

This week has been rather hectic – seeing friends and family; finishing all of my work errands; making sure I get everything on the huge kit list and the even larger drug list (perhaps I am completely naïve and will be eating my words by next Saturday but how will I really need two packets of Ibuprofen and two packets of Paracetamol?). Regardless of my denial of the actual difficulty of the trip, everything, including my massive drug supply, is now piled up in my room and ready to be properly packed. Still missing the gin hip flask...must search for that tomorrow.

I am £105 away from hitting my fundraising target of £1000 - a massive thank you to everyone that has donated so far. Should you feel the need to top up my fundraising page, here's the link: http://www.justgiving.com/travelingorilla (feel free to share it with your friends!)

As a parting gift, my Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust Colleagues bought me some jelly beans (Marks & Spencers - yummy!) and pink smarties. Can't wait to crack open the beans at the top of the 26km hill. Thank you Team Jo's and of course the rest of the office, you really have offered me so much encouragement over the last couple of months even when I went into too much detail about chaffing...you all still listened and nodded sympathetically. THANK YOU!   

Pink smarties and jelly beans to help me keep pedallin'.
Thanks Team Jo's! 

So far this week, I have experienced an interesting combination of: excitement, insomnia, fear, panic over lack of waterproof trousers (let’s not even go into details about that one - needless to say it was verging on hand me the valium all over waterproof trousers), and the best one of all mild indifference. And I haven't even started the cycling bit of the challenge yet. No idea which emotion will win but what I want more than anything is to get on the plane NOW!  Really can't wait to meet the rest of Group 2 and start cycling! 

Roll on Sunday! 

Our challenge - pictorial view

This is the route!!! From Nyeri to Kisumu...400 km on a bike in 5 days.


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3 weeks and counting until Cycle Kenya!!!

Work has been so busy that I've hardly had a moment to write anything on the blog, however, I'm planning to update more regularly as we get closer to leaving the UK in 3 weeks!!! And will, of course, attempt to blog every day during the challenge. 

Friends keep asking me how I feel about the trip: am I ready?
My response depends on the day. At the end of August I felt ready but now I swing between really excited and really freaked out. Mainly because by this point the plan was to be cycling to work 4-5 times a week (that's 20km a day) and doing at least two exercise classes such as spin, zumba or yoga. Unfortunately, the training schedule isn't on track, last week I got a stomach bug and that stopped me training for a whole week. Today was the first day back on the bike and it felt good - I didn't think I would miss cycling but I actually have. So I am now resigned to my fate, whatever level of fitness I am now, I've got to go with it! PMA - Positive Mental Attitude is what I'm relying on and chocolate, lots of chocolate.

So with 3 weeks to go - most things are sorted out:

• Kenyan visa - check
• Travel insurance - check
• Backpack (courtesy of my lovely cousin Katie) - check
• Cycling shorts - check
• Sunscreen - check
• Hip flask of gin - check
• Light summer cycle helmet - check
• Massive supply of pain killers - check
• Amazing travel guide to Kenya with illustrated notes of all Kenyan snakes - check

Things that haven't been sorted out:

• Vaccinations - turns out that to get my vaccination history I have had to phone a variety of health practitioners: the GP Receptionists three times, the Practice Nurse twice and finally the Practice Manager. Apparently, they cannot find any record of any vaccinations (I had some last year!) and the earliest travel clinic appointment was a month away which was booked a month ago. Let's hope they can sort me out next week! 
• Malaria tablets - as above! 
• Snack supply - sourcing trek bars which are amazing and I cannot leave without them! 
• New bikini - must be prepared for any eventuality and you can't go on a challenge like this without a bikini! 
• Antelope training - just in case! 

OK, will update with more pre-Kenya preparation soon...

The Beast from the East...

Over the last couple of months I've had a sinking feeling, I felt overwhelmed by the distance that I will have to cycle in Kenya – 400 km just seemed epic and hard to contemplate. So to conquer the fear of long distance cycling, I decided to sign up for the Beast from the East otherwise known as the BHF London to Hastings cycle ride. Seventy miles over 7 peaks crossing the beautiful North Downs and through the High Weald before facing the South Downs, and then finally down towards the coast (see the map below). My hypothesis being: if I do a 70 mile ride then I will be able to do Kenya.

My friend Nick decided that he wanted to do it with me and it was reassuring to have someone with me who has done plenty of long cycle rides. So, two weeks ago we booked our places and our entry numbers, 531 and 532, promptly arrived in the post. With no expectations I prepped for the day by storing up on my trek bar collection (essential for any sporting activity), eating pasta for 3 days in a row and not cycling all week (I maintain that excess pasta eating is the way forward!).

At the start - waiting to go!

Sunday morning was clear and crisp as we set out at 7.15 am in the taxi to Crystal Palace – Nick did suggest that we ride the 15 miles but I put my foot down...The ride was really well organised and all we had to do was hand in our registration cards and we were off by 8.45 am. I have to say I enjoyed the route out of London; it was hilly but nothing major. As we left London we rode into some beautiful countryside. Nick, much speedier than me and rode ahead, giving me a chance to chat to other cyclists. There was an interesting mixture of keen enthusiasts and relative novices (like me). The first 20 miles were hard but by around 11 am as I approached Tunbridge Wells I started to get into a rhythm and felt really good on the bike. There were a few tough hills, including the one that had a 25% incline (I fell off in a very spectacular way) and the hill that went on for far too long (a few plateaus and then another steep bit to get up). I patted myself on the back when another cyclist with the full cycling gear, amazing road bike and very athletic-looking cycled up to me and asked if I had just cycled up the hill. When I said yes, he looked shocked and congratulated me – he had to get off and walk!!!

Arriving at the beach

Around 1 pm, there was a torrential downpour, we had to shelter under a tree for about half an hour but the weather cleared quickly and we didn’t get too badly soaked. By 2.45 pm we had reached the coast with only about 8 miles to go – I celebrated with a Mars bar (apparently I had burned 4000 calories by that point)! Seeing the sea was incredibly motivating and the final 8 miles passed by quickly. Although there was a minor incident where Nick fell off his bike and managed to bang his head and cut his arm. His bike was also injured…We made it to the finish line and then straight to the first aid tent and Nick was patched up (luckily no serious injuries were sustained).

I really enjoyed the whole day: gorgeous scenery (topped off by reaching the sea), some great people to ride with who really love cycling, and some challenging hills to conquer. I’m so glad that I decided to take on the Beast: the distance wasn’t nearly as scary as it sounded.

 

On the finish line - looking suitably tired after 70 miles

On the train home with my medal

We took the train back to London and cycled from the station to home, which meant we actually cycled 80 miles on Sunday! I cycled to work on Monday and I felt fine – so now I have to maintain this level of fitness and I am ready to go. Thank you to Nick for riding with me – it was great having you with me.

BRING ON KENYA!

The London to Hastings route:

@travelingorilla newsflash: Gin improves cycling!

"Every weekend, there are lots of people who genuinely enjoy cycling long distances". This probably doesn’t surprise you but it really has surprised me; I’ve just never noticed the number of dedicated cycling enthusiasts out on the streets of London.

As the world of cycling is slowly revealed to me, I'm starting to notice it everywhere (types of bikes, saddles, helmet styles)! Last night, I went to a house party and I got chatting to two different guys both of whom are avid cyclists. They both regularly cycle around 50 km. It’s really impressive. I'm very envious that they've reached the 50 km mark, today I only cycled a meagre 22 km. But last night taught me that I can nod enthusiastically about cycling and talk about black cabs who've tried to drive into me. I'm getting there: I will be a real cyclist by November!

Along with my new-found awareness of other cyclists, this week has included a few firsts:

"Gin and tonic may help to improve
cycling efficiency" Cohen 2011

• I changed my brake pads myself – quite easy and I feel proud for not paying the £12 that the bike shop close to work wanted to charge me!
• I swapped my pain inducing saddle for a specialised women’s gel one– already feeling the benefits. So happy that the divorce from the old saddle has gone ahead. I can report the new saddle is gorgeous and really comfortable. Actually did 22 km today without cycling shorts - testament that my new saddle is AMAZING.
• I suffered a cycling related burn that made me look like I have joined a strange cult (massive white cross on my back and slightly reddened surrounding skin which is now fading to a tan). Not at all embarrassing when my work colleague gasped and asked what happened to my back before they burst out laughing! Mental note now made: must invite a kind friend or family member over to my flat to plaster me with sunscreen before the next ride.
• This week I've cycled approx. 120km (Monday to Sunday) - hard to believe but all the shorter one hour rides add up!
• I have scientifically observed that gin and tonic helps my cycling - seriously considering taking a hip flask with me to Kenya!

Overall training is going well BUT I need to sign up for a practice cycle event so that I can prove to myself I can do over 60km in a day...suggestions for events welcome!

Information on cervical cancer

Some information about cervical cancer - please pass this on to the women in your life.

• In the UK, around 3,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. 1,000 of those women will die.
• Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in women under 35.
• 99.7% of cervical cancers are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
• Cervical cancer is largely preventable through cervical screening and HPV vaccination.

Symptoms of cervical cancer

• Abnormal bleeding: after or during sexual intercourse, or between periods
• Post menopausal bleeding, if you are not on HRT or have stopped it for six weeks
• Unusual and/or unpleasant vaginal discharge
• Discomfort or pain during sex
• Lower back pain

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please contact your GP.

Reduce your risk!

• If you're between 12 and 18 years old you're eligible for the HPV vaccination. This will protect you against HPV types 16 and 18 which cause 70% of all cervical cancers. 
• Women over the age of 20 in Scotland and Wales and 25 in Northern Ireland and England will be invited for cervical screening (smear). Screening saves over 5,000 lives in the UK each year, it can reduce your risk of cervical cancer. Make sure you take up your invitation for screening when invited. Need more information about screening, check out the Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust website.

Cambridge via Cheshunt back to London aka home

So Sunday dawned and I needed to get home...there was no way that I was having a repeat of Saturdays adventure. I jumped on a train from Cambridge to Cheshunt. From there, I planned to cycle home. I have to say this was easy, only 13 miles. Really nice route and I didn't need the GPS to help me navigate - just as well as it would have probably taken me to the M25 anyway!

As I cycled close to Whetstone I stopped for a glass of water at my friend's house. They're good friends and I ended up joining them for an roast dinner (clearly a good time to have dropped in un-announced) - that topped off a great weekend. As Gordon Ramsay would say, 45 miles of cycling DONE. I'm very happy with that. But next time I will definitely invest in a printed road atlas!

Here's my route on the Sunday:

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A 30 mile adventure from London to Cambridge via the A505

So this weekend I was due to visit a friend for her b’day/leaving party in Cambridge. Having reviewed the weather forecast I knew, if I cycled, I would be rain free. Unfortunately, the London to Cambridge cycle ride was Sunday and I needed to be in Cambridge for Saturday – so I was going it alone. I got on my bike but decided that leaving from home direct to Cambridge would be too far, so took a detour and I started from Harpenden.

Primed with my 2 litre camel back, 2 gel pouches (the guy in Decathlon convinced me to try them), some nuts and chocolate covered raisins, 1 bottle of re-hydration mix and my mobile which has inbuilt GPS navigation system (tucked neatly into my new handle bar bag), I set off.

The GPS did me proud taking me through some lovely country lanes and a few easily manageable hills. I cycled until Letchworth with only one 10 minute rest where I scoffed down my nuts and choc. raisins. I was really enjoying myself - the sun was out and I was cycling through wheat fields, it was idyllic. I suspect that some exuberant texting to my friend, to let her know I was on time, was my downfall; as I then got lost in Letchworth. Letchworth and I are now intimately acquainted. It was also at this point that the GPS navigation let me down – it insisted that I get onto the A505. Anyone unfamiliar with this road should know that it’s very busy and has varying sizes of hard shoulder. I resisted the instructions and cycled to Baldock. Unfamiliar with GPS systems I thought it would have re-adjusted the route and so followed the monosyllabic voice that came from my cycle bag onto a road that looked just like the A505. But surely the GPS system wouldn’t do that to me? Would it?

As I cycled I did think that this wasn’t the type of road that I should cycling on. The cars were going fast and the hard shoulder was very small! But my GPS unit instructed me that I needed to cycle 4 miles on this road. After about a mile the hard shoulder disappeared and I was unable to continue cycling. I had option but to get off the bike and walk.  This had turned from a relaxing leisurely jaunt to go and see a friend into a suicide cycle.

Unusually for me, I didn't panick but I was worried that a  car would run me down as they sped past at 60 mph. I could see on the GPS map that there was a small B-road up ahead. I had no choice, I was getting onto that B-road and cycling in any direction as long as it was away from the A505!

As I cruised on the B-road feeling genuine relief that I hadn't been left as road-kill on the side of the A505, my mobile thought it would be a good time to run out of battery. Lovely, I was on a strange road riding to nowhere, certainly from the map on the mobile before it died I wasn't going North, and I had no way of contacting anyone - oh and the important bit no map (because I didn't make time to get a UK road atlas!).

Alone and lost I had one option keep cycling and find civilisation! It was fight or flight - you have to remember I'm a city girl. I have no idea about the countryside - it is a foreign land! But it wasn't long until I came to a village and was able to ask for directions. Turns out that I was only 5 miles from Royston - the next big town. The last 5 miles were easy, I peddled fast as I felt guilty for being late. I was supposed to be at my friends by 2 pm but I lost an hour...when I arrived at Royston I decided to jump on the train. A quick pay phone call to my friend to let her know I was on my way and then I sank down in the comfy train seat reflecting on my near miss with quite a few cars. Still that's 30 miles under my belt - not bad for a novice long distance cyclist!

I arrived in once piece but I think I gave my friend a shock as she opened the door to a shaking, big haired, and slightly sweaty me...but hey that is what training for a cycle challenge does to you! My friend has done a marathon and triathlon so she was well prepared to sort me out: a big gin and tonic, piece or three of chocolate and a hug - instant quick fix! Absolutely brilliant day that I won't forget for a long time.

Here's my route:

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Latest training news - an attempt to get fitter by running

Last night, I felt a sudden spurt of motivation: I was going to boast my training regime by running. And of course my ulterior motive was to prep for Military Fitness Training, which I have signed up to but for a multitude of reasons too lengthy to go into here, I still haven’t been to a class. I will definitely go next week – promise!

So, I left the house and ran for about 40 minutes. To anyone else this would be completely normal but anyone who knows me will be aware that I HATE running. When I say hate it, I mean I obviously can run but I just don’t feel comfortable doing it. People who run tell me: “You’ll get to that zen place where you really enjoy it” or “It’s so relaxing, I get thinking time”. I envy them because over the last 10 years I have never had a running epiphany, despite running a lot: outside, in the gym, alone, with boyfriends and even with a running group.

If someone asked me why I don’t run my usual line would be: "My legs are too short to make me a good runner!” But yesterday my usual mantra of ‘definitely no running under any circumstances’ was completely forgotten. I left the house in the dark (better to run in the cover of darkness – least I should scare the residents of Golders Green). The first 10 minutes were great as I ran up to the heath in my bright pink Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust vest, broadcasting to anyone that got close enough: that cervical cancer is preventable. The next 30 minutes involved my ipod battery dying (so no music to dull the thoughts of how awful the experience was), a dash through the high road in the rain, a few near misses with pedestrians and culminated in me having to stop due to hives all over my torso. That’s right I am officially allergic to running – the hives prove it! As I tried to stop scratching and get back home, I had one single thought: thank goodness, I won’t be running the 400 km in Kenya!

I have total respect for all you runners out there but I don’t think I’ll be joining you any time soon...

Someone caught me on camera at the training weekend!

Photos courtesy of Alison Wild - thanks Alison!

Training in the Cotswolds - Day 1 route

Courtesy of Karen:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/98257203

Training in the Cotswolds - Day 2

Summary of Day 2 - Cotswolds Training:

• Somewhere between 35 and 40 miles cycled - Karen's Garmin says 35 miles (here's the route: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/98257260)

• At least 3 litres of water plus electrolytes rehydration mix – much better today 

• A lot of sweaty but happy ladies 

   

Our pre-cycle briefing  on Day 2

DAY 2!!! I feel extremely cheerful writing that. I have to say that when I woke up this morning I wasn’t sure if I could cycle today. I wasn’t in pain, nothing hurt even my bottom (Lanacane plus Sweaty Betty padded cycling shorts and no knickers really does work – I’m sorry I ever doubted this). I just felt a wave of fear at getting back on the bike especially as I knew I had a big hill to do first thing. 

 

However, I did get on my bike along with 49 other brave women. If everyone else was doing the ride, well so was I! My plan to get through the day was slow and steady. I definitely didn’t want to go with Reg in the support van (no offence Reg)! The hill wasn’t as bad as I expected and once I got to the top I was able to appreciate the fantastic scenery – rolling hills and beautiful coloured flowers. The Cotswolds really is stunning.

 

Stunning views taken during a rest stop

We cycled up and down three hills, through lavender fields and we even saw the Red Arrows fly past (perhaps they heard that Women V Cancer Group 2 were in the area!). 

 

A much needed pit stop!

Lunch was a welcome break and it was a great feeling knowing that the end was insight. The last part of the ride sped by as we cycled through villages back to our starting point in Lower Quinton. Noone seemed very clear as to whether we had done 35 or 40 miles today, who cares because either way I am proud of myself. I made it – this is the furthest I have ever cycled - over 80 miles in two days is a remarkable achievement. 

 

I am also proud of the Group 2 team – I feel honoured to be part of the group. I just hope I can keep up with them all when we’re in Kenya this November...

Training in the Cotswolds - Day 1

Summary of Day 1 - Cotswolds Training:

• 48 miles cycled
• At least 3 litres of water and disgusting lucazade consumed
• 1 banging migraine 

Todays Cycle Kenya training was fantastic. The first in two days of preparatory training run by Action for Charity. Fifty seven lycre clad ladies and Ed made their way to Lower Quinton in the Cotswolds. Around 9 am this morning we were all nervous and uncertain - what did the team have planned? Would they want us to cycle hills all day? My own fear: would my bottom be fine by the end of the day?

My rental bike for the weekend.

Getting set up before the ride

It's fair to say, that as we began cycling I suddenly wished I had done more training! The morning started off well with a good 28 miles under our belts by lunchtime. It was a rather fast pace compared to my usual slow pedaling to work. Bearing in mind that I haven't cycled more than about 15 miles as 12 o'clock approached my energy was fading and I was an odd shade of white.

Sarah and Me before lunch

Lunch was at a beautiful country pub and we shared the venue with a piper and a wedding party! All a bit embarrassing when you're sweaty, have helmet hair and enormous padded shorts on. At lunch I took the opportunity to get to know my fellow cyclists. They are extremely knowledge about long distance cycling and have been fab at recommending me the best kit and essential snacks. I have a long list of things to get prior to Kenya.

I wanted to know why these women had decided to take on such a huge challenge. Their responses were inspiring and humbling. Some had loved ones who had been touched by cancer, others it was their own cancer journey that made them want to take part and for some it was the need to challenge themselves while supporting the three charities. These women have already raised thousands of pounds for the charities and in November they will be showing their support for women affected by cancer by cycling 400km - they are AMAZING.

Regrouping post a hill

Fueled by my carb based lunch I set off on my rental bike for the last 22 miles. It was not pleasant, the morning session had been fun cycling through gorgeous villages and past farmland. The afternoon was to consist of cycling up 3 consecutive steep hills. I gritted my teeth and powered up the hills to the best of my ability. The last hill was a 12% incline but I made it! In fact we all made it!

There was a great sense of achievement as we arrived back in Lower Quinton after 48 miles cycled. The most I've ever cycled in one day! I actually feel fine except for a spliting headache. Clearly I must get a better rehydration drink!

Feeling apprehensive about doing it again tmrw...wish me luck!

Half of the Women V Cancer Group 2 at the end of Training Day 1

Visualizing the route

If the itinerary was too much, check out this cool website that maps the route and elevations that the Women V Cancer group will have to cycle:
http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/39138754

Thank you to Sandhy Robinson Jones for making the map!
BW
@travelingorilla

Our Itinerary

Day 1: 6 November

Overnight from London to Nairobi

Day 2: 7 November

Nairobi - Nyeri

5km cycling

Early morning arrival at Nairobi. Coach transfer to Green Hills Hotel in Nyeri (3-4 hours approx). Nyeri is one of the largest towns in the Central Highlands and the gateway to Aberdale National Park. Bike fitting on arrival followed by a short warm up ride to Baden Powell's grave. If it's a clear day we'll enjoy views up to Mount Kenya.

Day 3: 8 November

Nyeri - Nyahururu 

98km cycling (that's right 98km!!!!!!!!!)

Today is a tough introduction to the challenge. Once into the lush countryside that surrounds Nyeri, we pass fields of crops including fruit, vegetables, sugar cane, tea and coffee. It's a long steady climb with several downhill stretches over small river valleys with some fantastic views. We'll be able to see majestic Mount Kenya in the distance and Aberdale National Park at closer range. After 83km we reach the equator for the first time. Overnight at the Thompson's Fall Lodge.

Day 4: 9 November

Nyahururu - Nakuru then transfer to Kabarnet

57km cycling

Shorter easier day, with some uphill cycling, through lush countryside. We leave Nyahururu and head into the Subukia Valley. After around 14km we stop at a viewpoint over the valley (2550m). From there we continue to Subukia town. As the day progresses we pass vast tea plantations with their light green hues. After lunch transfer 140km to Kabarnet which has a spectacular location in the Tugen Hills on the eastern edge of the Kerio Valley. Overnight at Hotel Kabarnet built by President Moi.

Day 5: 10 November     

Kabarnet – Eldoret

93km cycling (included in this is a 26km hill)

The most challenging day of the ride crossing the Kerio Valley and climbing the Elgeyo escarpment. We start with 18km of downhill, parts of which are quite steep, followed  by gentler terrain. After around 28km we encounter a very serious climb over 26km on windy roads through a pretty forest with lots of butterflies. There will be a huge sense of achievement when we reach the top of the hill (2293m) and we'll be rewarded with fantastic views across the Rift Valley. After lunch the rest of the ride is generally downhill through a beautiful area with little traffic. Overnight at the Wagon Hotel.

Day 6: 11 November

Eldoret - Kakamega

98km (67km on tarmac & 31km on dirt road) if there has been no rain

110Km if there has been rain

There are two options for cycling from Eldoret to Kakamega. The one we take will depend on the weather in the days before we arrive here.

If there is no rain we will do the following. This day is made up of two halves. Up to lunch time we will cycle on very hilly tarmac roads with undulate through plantations and farms. There are some steeper longer hills when we reach Kapsabet. After lunch we cycle on a dirt track past a small farms and villages and into rainforest towards Kakamega. Overnight at the Golf Hotel in Kakamega.

However, if there has been rain (which is likely), we will cycle on the busy main road for 62km to the junction on the main road to Kakamega. From here we will cycle for 34km along a smallerroad before entering the Kakamega Forest Reserve for a short ride on the road of about 2km. This is home to black and white colobus monkeys, flying squirrels, the blue monkey and also potto (the worlds slowest mammal). We continue on road for about 12km to Kakamega. Overnight at the Golf Hotel in Kakamega.

Day 7: 12 November

Kakamega - Kisumu

53km cycling

Today's ride is mainly downhill with some steep climbs. After 39km we get our first view of our final destination  - Lake Victoria which covers 70,000 square kilometres and is the major geographical featuresin this part of the continent.

Traffic starts to build up as we near Kisumu, which surprisingly is Kenya's third largest town. We finish cycling around lunch time. Overnight at the Sunset Hotel and a well deserved celebratory meal.

Day 8: 13 November

Transfer Kisumu – Nakuru

approx 4 hours

We transfer by road to Nakuru. This afternoon is free to relax or take part in an optional game drive. Overnight in Nakuru.

Day 9: 14 November

Transfer Nakuru – Nairobi

approx 4 hours

This morning we transfer to Nairobi. This afternoon is a highlight of the trip we visit the Nairobi National Park including a visit to the elephant orphanage where orphaned babies are looked after & raised until they are ready to return to the wild. This 120 square mile national park is home to giraffes, monkeys, rhinos, antelopes and more.

Day 10: 15 November

Nairobi - UK

All in all - it's not too bad! Is it? OK, who am I kidding, it's bad but the scenery is going to be stunning.

Women V Cancer - Cycle Kenya Challenge

Over 18 months ago, I attended a meeting for Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust with representatives from Breast Cancer Care, Ovarian Cancer Action, Classic Tours and Action for Charity. We saw beautiful pictures of the Kenyan Rift Valley and heard about a proposed route for the first ever Women V Cancer Cycle Kenya Challenge. The cycle challenge would be a women only event and the participants would raise awareness and funds of the 3 cancer charities. It sounded really incredible. 

As I sat in the meeting I thought: "Wow this challenge looks amazing, trip of a life time but I bet it's going to be extremely painful for the participants, you'll never catch me cycling 400km up and down those hills"

Little did I know that as the months moved forward I would be the elected charity rep representing all three charities on Cycle Kenya Group 2 (6-15 November 2011) and cycling along with 100 other women on the trip.

I'm pretty sure there will be lots to share on this blog. I want this blog to help raise awareness of breast, cervical and ovarian cancers but also share some insights into our trip and of course the training before hand - so watch this space!

Best wishes
travelingorilla aka Claire