1 Week to go

Today (Saturday) was our last team training session before we set off and sadly Mike Claridge could not join us.  We also had an 8am meeting to finalise outstanding issues regarding the trip.

The training session gave me the opportunity to try out the new cycling shorts and jersey donated by a parishioner and after 64 miles of hills and more hills they have so far passed the test.  It is my first experience of bib shorts and it may take some getting used to.

Today we went via Ley Hill, Berkamstead, the Ashridge Estate, and Little Gadddeston to Bison Hill in Bedfordshire and then to Whipsnade Zoo.  Surprisingly none of us were mistaken for escaped animals and we continued to Ivinghoe Beacon, The Lee, Chesham and then home.  In all 66 miles of some of the most beautiful cycling roads (if you do not mind hills and cars) that anyone could wish to cycle with absolutely stunning views.  It is also so near to us.

The downside is aching knees and a bit of sun burn as evidenced by Mike Carney’s face.

I have said previously how this trip has rekindled my love of cycling.  What it has also provided is the opportunity to visit our local countryside that sometimes when travelling in a car we may miss and appreciate just how beautiful it is.

Our travels through France, Switzerland and Italy including the Alps have something to beat.

Fr Michael