Finally together as a team

The majority of us have known since October last year that we would be doing the RAB (apart from Rob Howells, who found out at the end of January, and Leanne Basson, who agreed to join us at the end of February) but it was only on Friday, 4 March 2011 that the Manchester-based riders all managed to get together to have a few photos taken.  Here is one of the best ones:

 The team is made up of (from left to right) me, Leanne Basson, Yvonne Lorimer, Jo Green, Matt Beaman, Rob Howells and Andrew Shepherd.  Jo, Matt and Andrew are riding the entire 950 miles by themselves, whereas Leanne, Yvonne, Rob and I are hiring a motorhome and doing it as a much more relaxed relay.  We are going to have such a laugh - I can't wait!

Leanne came out with me on my training ride this weekend and we did the traditional route around Lymm, High Legh and Dunham.  It was the first time out with us for Leanne, but we did really well - I even managed to do my cleats up on my shoes properly before we set off so I didn't have to worry about them falling off my shoes this time!  Wonders will never cease!

Here is the link to the ride:

http://sportypal.com/Workouts/Details/952361



Since I started training for the RAB, I haven't used any energy bars or drink, instead I have just been using water and a Kelloggs' cereal bar.  However, I have invested in some energy gel bars and some protein drink and this weekend was the first opportunity to try it.  Unfortunately, I managed to get more on my jacket and gloves than down my neck, so practise is needed I reckon!

I am organising a training ride for all of us at the beginning of April and Jo is going to include it in her Deloitte cycling newsletter too, I think - I am trying to get as many people interested as possible so that the ones who haven't ridden in a group can get some experience.  The aim is to ride to a cafe, have lunch then ride back again - it won't be too far.

I've also entered some more races now - a criterium and a road race in Dumfries at the end of May, as well as a time trial near St Helens, although the entry form for the latter is still on my desk whilst I try and find the organiser's address as it isn't on the website.  Hmmm.  We're also hopefully going to purchase a time trial bike tomorrow too - all very exciting!