Canal and Vale to Oxford

The Boat Inn on the Grand Union at Berkhamsted

The first 50 miler this weekend. It didn't start to plan as I called in at Halfords for a spare tube and drinks bottle only to find they don't open until 9 on Saturday mornings. Still, neither was required on the day, which comprised two distinct halves: along the Grand Union towpath from Hemel Hempstead to Aylesbury and then country lanes through the Vale of Aylesbury to my mother's in Headington, Oxford. A very pleasant ride although almost entirely flat, so next time it'll be a hillier route through the Chilterns. For now though, 4:30 hrs riding time and an average speed of just over 11 mph bodes well for the longer days in June next year. 

Lessons learned:

• October mornings can be cold - shorts not enough
• Towpaths can be bumpy - plenty of padding needed
• Use the same measures - speedometer in miles/mapping in kms doesn't work

First 50-mile training ride

I've done a few 20 mile routes and a 35 so far. Here's my first 50-miler - well, it's 47 but I'll find 3 more somewhere for the round figure. It's a relatively flat route over to Mum's in Oxford. A hilly one through the Chilterns will follow. 

£3500 raised! - charity sponsorship page

Including 'offline' donations direct to the charities, and with Giftaid, total sponsorship has passed £3500. Many thanks to all who have contributed. All sponsorship great or small is very welcome and as I have funded everything to get me to the start and now the finish, all your donations go straight to the three charities via virginmoneygiving.

www.virginmoneygiving.com/jim60lejog

Planning the trip

I don't know if he ever rode a bike, but I'm following his advice, so here's my project plan!

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jim60lejog