Yesterday I managed a quick training ride after work. The clock change at the weekend will definitely allow me to get a few more training miles in now!
The ride started in glorious sunshine, but then an ominous black cloud covered the sky and gave me a torrential rain soaking for the first 7 miles of the ride!
Overall I was pleased with the training ride, doing 16 miles in just over an hour at an average speed of 14.2mph
My personal blog on the training and preparation for the 145 miles of cycling from London to Amsterdam. Representing AFC Bournemouth and raising money for Prostate Cancer UK. This Football to Amsterdam bike ride is endorsed and supported by both The Football League and the LMA. The ride will be led and supported by football legends Terry Butcher and Viv Anderson. Over 400 riders will depart London on Friday 3rd June 2016
Main Image
Thursday, 31 March 2016
Supportive Tweet from AFC Bournemouth
The support I am receiving from AFC Bournemouth is simply brilliant. Yesterday, aside from the website news story article, they also tweeted a link to the story with a picture of me.
The AFC Bournemouth Twitter account +AFC Bournemouth has over 149,000 followers.
So far the tweet has been retweeted three times and has had seven likes!
Wednesday, 30 March 2016
I Made The AFC Bournemouth Website
Really happy to say that the official AFC Bournemouth website has written and published an article on me and the London to Amsterdam charity bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK
Published this morning, the article promotes the "War on Miles" challenge, where I am taking on the players to see who does the most miles in April.
A quote from the article explains it better!
You can read the full article here or by clicking the URL below
http://www.afcb.co.uk/news/article/afc-bournemouth-prostate-cancer-uk-gary-trudgett-matt-ritchie-3031881.aspx
Published this morning, the article promotes the "War on Miles" challenge, where I am taking on the players to see who does the most miles in April.
A quote from the article explains it better!
AFC Bournemouth supporter Gary Trudgett has challenged the Cherries midfield to a war of miles over April.The running stats of Eddie Howe’s midfield have been well documented of late, with Andrew Surman, Dan Gosling, Matt Ritchie and Eunan O'Kane having all topped charts for the most distance covered in the Barclays Premier League.
Now cycling enthusiast Trudgett, as part of his training to represent AFC Bournemouth in Prostate Cancer UK’s 145-mile London to Amsterdam bike ride, will go head-to-head with the midfield four.
The players collectively covered 179.6 km across four league games in March, whilst Gary clocked 207.9 km throughout a tough month of training. With five matches scheduled in for April, it’s guaranteed to be a close call!
“It’s a daunting challenge but one I am really looking forward to,” commented Trudgett.
“Especially as the lads in the midfield are topping the league tables in terms of running stats and distance covered at the moment. Fitness is such a key factor in the AFC Bournemouth team.
“That said, hopefully there will be a few games that the boys are winning comfortably and Eddie [Howe] can give them a rest for the final 10 or 15 minutes. Maybe that’ll give me a chance to win!”
You can read the full article here or by clicking the URL below
http://www.afcb.co.uk/news/article/afc-bournemouth-prostate-cancer-uk-gary-trudgett-matt-ritchie-3031881.aspx
This Blog Exceeds 2,000 Page Views
I was really happy to notice this morning that this blog has now achieved over 2,000 page views in under three months since I set it up!
A big thank you to everyone who has visited the blog or read a post.
It makes all the time and effort I put in to it more than worthwhile.
A big thank you to everyone who has visited the blog or read a post.
It makes all the time and effort I put in to it more than worthwhile.
Behind The Scences At AFC Bournemouth's Training Pavilion
You may have read my previous blog post when I was recently invited to AFC Bournemouth's Vitality Stadium to meet Scottish international and fans favourite player Matt Ritchie; as well as see the brilliant promotional plan that the Media & Comms team had put together. (You can read the blog post here)
For me personally I was very privileged to get to see behind the scenes at both the stadium and the adjacent Pavilion training complex.
From the media and press room in the stadium to walking along the tunnel and out onto the pitch, to sitting in the dug outs for a few pictures. The stadium and facilities are amazing and first class.
We then headed out of the stadium itself to head across to the adjacent training facilities. Known as the Pavilion this newly built facility is indeed Premier League quality and standards.
I was lucky enough to get a brief tour of the Pavilion as well as say hello to most of the first team squad as the arrived for training. Matt was already in but getting some treatment.
He arrived some 10 minutes later and was more than happy to talk about bikes, cycling and the charity event itself.
Recently AFC Bournemouth published an article on their website, sharing an insight and images of the Pavilion training facility that I was lucky enough to get to see in person.
You can read the full article by clicking the link below:
http://www.afcb.co.uk/news/article/behind-the-scenes-afc-bournemouth-training-3022539.aspx
For me personally I was very privileged to get to see behind the scenes at both the stadium and the adjacent Pavilion training complex.
From the media and press room in the stadium to walking along the tunnel and out onto the pitch, to sitting in the dug outs for a few pictures. The stadium and facilities are amazing and first class.
We then headed out of the stadium itself to head across to the adjacent training facilities. Known as the Pavilion this newly built facility is indeed Premier League quality and standards.
I was lucky enough to get a brief tour of the Pavilion as well as say hello to most of the first team squad as the arrived for training. Matt was already in but getting some treatment.
He arrived some 10 minutes later and was more than happy to talk about bikes, cycling and the charity event itself.
Recently AFC Bournemouth published an article on their website, sharing an insight and images of the Pavilion training facility that I was lucky enough to get to see in person.
You can read the full article by clicking the link below:
http://www.afcb.co.uk/news/article/behind-the-scenes-afc-bournemouth-training-3022539.aspx
Tuesday, 29 March 2016
Training Ride #19
Back on the road bike for some long training miles yesterday. The weather was a little unsettled with the odd shower, but mainly it stayed dry with the odd period of prolonged sunshine.
I rode with a friend and he added some different aspects to a route I had ridden previously. Making it a much more enjoyable ride, discovering new parts of the purbecks and Wareham I've never seen before.
Managed just under 32 miles in 2hrs 53mins at an average speed of 11mph. Most rides over the purbecks involve a fair amount of climbing and descending with this ride accounting for 1,153ft of elevation!
You can view the ride on Starva here
https://www.strava.com/activities/529249947
I rode with a friend and he added some different aspects to a route I had ridden previously. Making it a much more enjoyable ride, discovering new parts of the purbecks and Wareham I've never seen before.
Managed just under 32 miles in 2hrs 53mins at an average speed of 11mph. Most rides over the purbecks involve a fair amount of climbing and descending with this ride accounting for 1,153ft of elevation!
You can view the ride on Starva here
https://www.strava.com/activities/529249947
Training Ride #17 and Training Ride #18
Possibly the worst weather I have ever ridden in! A very early start on Sunday morning, especially as the clocks had changed, as I was picked up by my mate at 8:00am.
Mountain bike placed in back of his van and we headed out to the heart of the New Forest.
To start with it, it was dry, a little chilly but OK weather wise.
Met up with another rider Malcolm who knows the good trails across the New Forest. Set off and within 10 minutes we were soaked with a torrential downpour of rain! We agreed we couldn't get any wetter so carried on through some very muddy trails and climbs deeper into the New Forest.
Then we had glorious sunshine, followed by rain showers and then an almighty hail storm. So four seasons in one morning!!
Overall it was a great ride, with good friends. It was hard and uncomfortable, but that is what mountain biking and riding in these great places is all about!
Arriving back at the vans at the end of an enjoyable we were drenched and caked in mud. So it was decided to head back to my mates house to hose down both of the bikes, plus parts of ourselves.
Hence why this blog is both Training Ride #17 and #18, as after hosing the bikes down I rode the 4.3 miles from his house back to mine.
So Training Ride #17 was 11.6 miles in just over 1hr 23 mins with an average speed of 8.4mph and over 549ft of climbing and descending.
Training Ride #18 was a short blast home along the Castleman Trailway, of just
4.3 miles
You can view the two rides on Strava here:
Ride #17 - https://www.strava.com/activities/528060702
Ride #18 - https://www.strava.com/activities/528060713
Mountain bike placed in back of his van and we headed out to the heart of the New Forest.
To start with it, it was dry, a little chilly but OK weather wise.
Met up with another rider Malcolm who knows the good trails across the New Forest. Set off and within 10 minutes we were soaked with a torrential downpour of rain! We agreed we couldn't get any wetter so carried on through some very muddy trails and climbs deeper into the New Forest.
Then we had glorious sunshine, followed by rain showers and then an almighty hail storm. So four seasons in one morning!!
Overall it was a great ride, with good friends. It was hard and uncomfortable, but that is what mountain biking and riding in these great places is all about!
Arriving back at the vans at the end of an enjoyable we were drenched and caked in mud. So it was decided to head back to my mates house to hose down both of the bikes, plus parts of ourselves.
Hence why this blog is both Training Ride #17 and #18, as after hosing the bikes down I rode the 4.3 miles from his house back to mine.
So Training Ride #17 was 11.6 miles in just over 1hr 23 mins with an average speed of 8.4mph and over 549ft of climbing and descending.
Training Ride #18 was a short blast home along the Castleman Trailway, of just
4.3 miles
You can view the two rides on Strava here:
Ride #17 - https://www.strava.com/activities/528060702
Ride #18 - https://www.strava.com/activities/528060713
Have You Liked My Facebook Page?
Did you know I have created a Facebook page to help promote the London to Amsterdam charity bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK?
If you are on Facebook please give the page a Like.
https://www.facebook.com/london2amsterdam/
If you are on Facebook please give the page a Like.
https://www.facebook.com/london2amsterdam/
Pictures from Good Friday Ride
Thought I'd share a few pictures from my training ride on Good Friday. It was a lot of fun and had some amazing views after a lot of climbing up big hills across the Purbecks!
You can read my blog post about the ride here
You can read my blog post about the ride here
Training Ride #16
I took advantage of the long Easter weekend, by planning a couple of rides. The first was on Good Friday which was defiantly the pick of the days for weather.
Early start as I was at the Sandbanks ferry at just after 9:00am in glorious spring sunshine.
Lots of cyclists were out early, as over 50 cyclists boarded the 9:15am ferry across to the Purbecks.
I was out on my mountain bike, looking to climb some hills and explore the epic landscape that the Purbecks offer.
Total miles was 30.3 miles in 3hrs 20mins at an average speed of 9.1mph.
A really enjoyable day, being back on my mountain bike getting muddy and exploring vast areas of natural beauty!
To view the ride on Strava please click the following link:
https://www.strava.com/activities/526336091/overview
Early start as I was at the Sandbanks ferry at just after 9:00am in glorious spring sunshine.
Lots of cyclists were out early, as over 50 cyclists boarded the 9:15am ferry across to the Purbecks.
I was out on my mountain bike, looking to climb some hills and explore the epic landscape that the Purbecks offer.
Riding with my friend Alan, a man born and bred in Swanage who knows the Purbecks like the back of his hand, we headed out from the ferry heading through Worth Matravers, Kingston and Corfe Castle in a great loop that saw us climb and descend over 1,298 ft.
A really enjoyable day, being back on my mountain bike getting muddy and exploring vast areas of natural beauty!
To view the ride on Strava please click the following link:
https://www.strava.com/activities/526336091/overview
Thursday, 24 March 2016
Update to Prostate Cancer Riders League Table
Back on the 19th February, I wrote a blog post on which football clubs were represented by riders on the London to Amsterdam bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK.
If you didn't see or read the original blog you can read it here
So back in February the top 5 was dominated by Ipswich Town, with Tottenham Hotspur and Sheffield United a little way back, followed by Stevenage and Wigan Athletic.
I thought it would be interesting to review which teams are represented most by riders over a month later!
So the top 10 of football clubs represented on the 2016 London to Amsterdam bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK are....
So Ipswich Town still significantly leads the way and dominates the number one position! Well done to the Tractor Boys
To see the full list of riders and the teams that are representing click the link below
If you didn't see or read the original blog you can read it here
So back in February the top 5 was dominated by Ipswich Town, with Tottenham Hotspur and Sheffield United a little way back, followed by Stevenage and Wigan Athletic.
I thought it would be interesting to review which teams are represented most by riders over a month later!
- Has the top 10 changed?
- Are Ipswich Town still number one?
So the top 10 of football clubs represented on the 2016 London to Amsterdam bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK are....
- Ipswich Town with 42 riders
- Tottenham Hotspur with 17 riders
- Sheffield United with 16 riders
- Stevenage with 14 riders
- Newport County with 13 riders
- Wigan Athletic with 13 riders
- Barnsley with 12 riders
- Manchester City with 11 riders
- Preston North End with 11 riders
- Southend United with 10 riders
So Ipswich Town still significantly leads the way and dominates the number one position! Well done to the Tractor Boys
To see the full list of riders and the teams that are representing click the link below
Donations & Sponsorship Update
I am so pleased to write this update on my sponsorship target of £1,000 has now reached 149%, with current donations standing at an amazing £1,490
I am so happy and very very humbled by all of the amazing and generous support from friends, family and acquaintances.
A massive thank you to everyone who has donated or supported me in anyway. I never ever imaged I would reach anywhere near these levels of fund raising.
Thank you!
I am so happy and very very humbled by all of the amazing and generous support from friends, family and acquaintances.
A massive thank you to everyone who has donated or supported me in anyway. I never ever imaged I would reach anywhere near these levels of fund raising.
Thank you!
Awareness Builds With Spaceway's Latest Customer Email Bulletin
This week Spaceway very kindly dedicated their email news bulletin, which is sent to over 3,000 of their customers, clients and suppliers. Solely highlighting and promoting the London to Amsterdam bike ride and my participation in it!
Designed and written by marketing agency Carswell Gould in Southampton, the messaging and content within the email newsletter was very engaging and contains lots of comparisons and facts. Making it a good read and creating awareness of the ride and the opportunities to support and donate.
You can read the email newsletter in full by clicking the link here, or simply read the content below.
A massive thank you to Spaceway for their great support and helping me promote the ride.
To read more about Spaceway and what they do, please see the Sponsors & Supporters page within this blog here, or visit their website at...
http://spaceway.co.uk/
Designed and written by marketing agency Carswell Gould in Southampton, the messaging and content within the email newsletter was very engaging and contains lots of comparisons and facts. Making it a good read and creating awareness of the ride and the opportunities to support and donate.
You can read the email newsletter in full by clicking the link here, or simply read the content below.
A massive thank you to Spaceway for their great support and helping me promote the ride.
To read more about Spaceway and what they do, please see the Sponsors & Supporters page within this blog here, or visit their website at...
http://spaceway.co.uk/
Efficiency Did you know that cycling is more efficient than any other mode of transport? With Spaceway, you can maximise efficiency with bespoke racking and shelving storage solutions.
Did you know: A light industrial mezzanine can hold 50,000kg, equivalent to 823 football fans.
Record breaking The tallest bicycle in the world stands at 14.5 feet tall. In 2013, Spaceway created the tallest mezzanine floor ever built, standing at over 7 meters tall.
A First Class Solution Gary has set himself a personal sponsorship target of £1,000 to raise for Prostate Cancer UK. For that price, you could easily afford some of the latest products available in the office interiors marketplace to refurbish your workspace.
Did you know: a heavy industrial mezzanine can hold 100,000kg or 7 fully-loaded buses with England football fans on board.Teamwork
Jamie Vardy’s not the only one having a party this season. Over 450 people are set to take part in the bike ride, including football legends and former England internationals Terry Butcher and Viv Anderson. At Spaceway, our teamwork ensures we offer a fully managed solution so you get exactly the results you’re after.
Speed In the time it will take for Gary and the other riders to cycle 145 miles from London to Amsterdam, (2 days) Spaceway could fit two entire mezzanine floors and still have a few hours to spare.
Did you know: a standard office mezzanine can hold 35,000kg or 5,781 Euro 2016 trophies.
Brain and brawn
The right psychological preparation for competition can be as important as physical conditioning. Winning cyclists believe in themselves and here at Spaceway, we have the resource and experience to deliver 100% customer satisfaction.
This summer, while you’re watching Euro 2016, we will be helping businesses make the most of their space with our mezzanine floor systems.
Don’t get left on the sidelines. Give your team a boost before the Euro 2016 kicks off. Call us today on 0800 085 1022 or enquire through our website.
You can keep up with Gary’s progress on his personal blog here and donate via Just Giving to his mammoth challenge here.
Training Ride #15
Managed to sneak a quick training ride yesterday. Felt good to be out on the bike again. The weather was good; dry with little wind.
Didn't have that much time to fit this training ride in, but managed 12.6 miles in just under an hour, which was pleasing.
I was happy with my average speed of 14.4mph for 12.6 miles
You can view the training ride details on my Strava feed here
Didn't have that much time to fit this training ride in, but managed 12.6 miles in just under an hour, which was pleasing.
I was happy with my average speed of 14.4mph for 12.6 miles
You can view the training ride details on my Strava feed here
Tuesday, 22 March 2016
Learning To Ride In A Group
So being a fairly inexperienced road cyclist, I need to learn or experience what it is like to ride in a group of cyclists both I depart for Amsterdam on the 3rd June 2016.
So as part of my training plan I have entered my first sportive. The Wiggle New Forest Sportive on Sunday 10th April 2016.
I believe there will be circa 1,000 riders taking part in this sportive. Claimed to be the most popular event in the UK Cycling Events calendar, this two day event will ensure I learn how to ride with other riders in small and large groups.
You can read more about the event here or by clicking the link below:
http://www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/events/wiggle-new-forest-spring-sportive/
Or watch the video from last years event below
I've entered the Standard route which is 67 miles, as I felt the Epic route of 84 miles was a little intense! The course around the national park that is the New Forest is pictured below:
So as part of my training plan I have entered my first sportive. The Wiggle New Forest Sportive on Sunday 10th April 2016.
I believe there will be circa 1,000 riders taking part in this sportive. Claimed to be the most popular event in the UK Cycling Events calendar, this two day event will ensure I learn how to ride with other riders in small and large groups.
You can read more about the event here or by clicking the link below:
http://www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/events/wiggle-new-forest-spring-sportive/
Or watch the video from last years event below
I've entered the Standard route which is 67 miles, as I felt the Epic route of 84 miles was a little intense! The course around the national park that is the New Forest is pictured below:
UK Cycling Events describe the event as follows:
Starting just outside the National Park, near Ringwood, you’ll begin the ride in the south-west corner of the Forest and head east first of all, completing an anti-clockwise loop of the woodland area on the day on unspoilt and quiet back lanes with picturesque views.
As you ride and take in the views in the rolling scenery, there will be a number of hills to challenge your legs – plus a test to come near the end – with short and sharp climbs popping up every now and again to keep you on your toes. Beautiful New Forest villages of Sway, Beaulieu and Lepe are passed through before you head north and back into the centre of the district.
Quickly in and out of central point Lyndhurst, you’ll soon cross the M27 and take on the events major climb of the day, just outside Nomansland. It’s steep, but fairly short, so you should be able to dispose of this quickly and continue on your way. From here, it’s downhill all the way – with one spiky hill exception around Stuckton and the final feed stop – as you roll back around the edges of the Forest, towards Ringwood, and claim your medal, t-shirt and Powerbar recovery product at the finish line.
Somerley House and Gardens are not usually open to the public; however as an added bonus, riders of the Wiggle New Forest Spring Sportive and supporters will have the chance to view some of the State rooms within the House and access to the Gardens on the event day.
Off Bike Training - Hendy Ford Eastleigh 10K Run
As part of my training plan, I ran the Hendy Ford Eastleigh 10K race on Sunday. This is the 2nd year I have run this 10K event. It is very popular and run on closed roads.
Starting at 9:00am on Sunday morning, the field of 3,000 runners set off following the timing car and a really nice bright red Ford Mustang, thanks to the sponsors of the race Hendy Ford.
Late last year I set myself three running targets...
Starting at 9:00am on Sunday morning, the field of 3,000 runners set off following the timing car and a really nice bright red Ford Mustang, thanks to the sponsors of the race Hendy Ford.
Late last year I set myself three running targets...
- Run 5K in under 29 minutes
- Run 10K in under 60 minutes
- Run a half-marathon in under 2hrs and 30mins
Happily and proudly I achieved both the 5K and half-marathon targets...
- Best 5K @ 28 mins and 24 secs
- Best Half Marathon @ 2 hours and 22 mins
Leaving the last remaining target to be achieved as the 10K at sub 60 mins.
Frustratingly I clocked 1 hr and 8 secs!! So close!!!
But happy nonetheless
Which brings to end my running endeavours for the short term, whilst I now focus on riding my bike more, now that the weather is improving and the evenings getting lighter.
You can read more about the Eastleigh 10k race on the Running Mania website
Prostate Cancer UK Newsletter & Blog
The great and amazing people at Prostate Cancer UK contacted me last week and asked if I would mind writing a blog post for their monthly email newsletter bulletin.
I was delighted and spent some time over the weekend thinking about what to blog about!
Finally came up with an idea of how my training is going and what I'm learning with every ride. Plus a fun aspect of some numbers related to facts and achievements so far!
Really hoping the team at Prostate Cancer UK like and use my blog that I submitted this morning!!
Here is an extract from the blog I submitted...
I was delighted and spent some time over the weekend thinking about what to blog about!
Finally came up with an idea of how my training is going and what I'm learning with every ride. Plus a fun aspect of some numbers related to facts and achievements so far!
Really hoping the team at Prostate Cancer UK like and use my blog that I submitted this morning!!
Here is an extract from the blog I submitted...
Finally I thought I share some numbers with you…..
- 150 – days between starting my training on 1st January and departing for London to Amsterdam
- 42 – the most miles I have ridden in a single training ride
- 1390 – the total amount of pounds I have raised so far in sponsorship
- 1695 – the number of views my blog has received
- 218 – total amount of training miles I completed in January
- 139 – total amount of training miles I completed in February
- 45 – the age I will be on the start line in June, as my birthday’s a week before
- 32 – the ratio of my bike’s gear cassette that I upgraded to make hill climbs a little easier
- 30 – the shirt number of AFC Bournemouth player Matt Ritchie who is supporting and endorsing the ride
- 55 – the total number of blog posts I have written so far on my blog
- 1 – the number of crashes I’ve had whilst training
- 3 – items of bespoke cycling kit from the amazing people at SaddleDrunk made for me
Monday, 21 March 2016
New Sponsor & Supporter - Web Feet
A massive thank you to Gillian and her team at leading digital marketing agency Web Feet for their sponsorship and support.
Their very generous donation and support is amazing. Thank you so much.
It will be a massive motivator as I increase my training, now Spring is nearly here. The extra miles in training and throughout the London to Amsterdam bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK in June will be much easier knowing that I have so many generous supporters.
Currently my sponsorship target has reached 139% of my original £1,000 target.
I have the pleasure of working with Web Feet, as they are a digital marketing agency who manages the SEO elements of one of the Spaceway branded websites www.sac-bott.com
To find out more about Web Feet and what they do please see the Sponsors & Supporters webpage on this blog by clicking here or visiting their website
http://www.web-feet.co.uk/
Or watch their great introduction video below...
Their very generous donation and support is amazing. Thank you so much.
It will be a massive motivator as I increase my training, now Spring is nearly here. The extra miles in training and throughout the London to Amsterdam bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK in June will be much easier knowing that I have so many generous supporters.
Currently my sponsorship target has reached 139% of my original £1,000 target.
I have the pleasure of working with Web Feet, as they are a digital marketing agency who manages the SEO elements of one of the Spaceway branded websites www.sac-bott.com
To find out more about Web Feet and what they do please see the Sponsors & Supporters webpage on this blog by clicking here or visiting their website
http://www.web-feet.co.uk/
Or watch their great introduction video below...
New Spring/ Summer Training Jersey from Prostate Cancer UK
The very kind and generous team at Prostate Cancer UK have kindly sent me a short sleeved official cycling jersey.
I will wear this proudly on my training rides, especially now the weather is improving from the cold and rain which has dominated my training rides to date!
A huge thank you to the great people at Prostate Cancer UK
I will wear this proudly on my training rides, especially now the weather is improving from the cold and rain which has dominated my training rides to date!
A huge thank you to the great people at Prostate Cancer UK
Friday, 18 March 2016
If you use and like Instagram you can follow me. I will be posting pictures as updates throughout my training and preparation, as well as during the actual London to Amsterdam bike ride in June 2016!
You can find me on Instagram by searching "Gtrudgett" or by clicking on this link
https://www.instagram.com/gtrudgett/
You can find me on Instagram by searching "Gtrudgett" or by clicking on this link
https://www.instagram.com/gtrudgett/
Looking Resplendent in my SaddleDrunk Cycling Apparel
Yesterday I received a very exciting package in the post! My bespoke and customised SaddleDrunk cycling kit arrived!
Now I can not speak more highly or compliment the amazing guys at SaddleDrunk enough to express how delighted I am.
Setting out on Friday 3rd June 2016 from the Olympic Stadium in London at the start of the London to Amsterdam bike ride, I am confident I will have the best cycling kit of the 450 riders! So I will definitely look the part, even if I won't be the best or fastest rider!!
So let me explain my SaddleDrunk cycling kit...
Resembling the AFC Bournemouth home shirt with the red and black stripes on the front and back of the jersey, the design is very eye catching and will make me stand out in the crowd!
The design on the back of the jersey has my initials, the Prostate Cancer UK logo, then the SaddleDrunk logo. On the middle rear pocket is the AFC Bournemouth emblem.
The black shoulders and sleeves have the Prostate Cancer UK logo, my initials and the SaddleDrunk icon.
The full length zip on the front of the jersey is hidden really well in the design of the black stripe down the middle of the front on the jersey. With the AFC Bournemouth team badge on the left breast, just below my initials and then the Prostate Cancer logo displayed proudly on the left hand side of the shirt.
Finally the two side panels display the SaddleDrunk branding.
The quality of manufacturer and the very professional design makes this the highest calibre cycling jersey I have ever worn. The fit is fantastic and the attention to detail of the materials used is outstanding.
The branding and design are also brilliant. With an AFC Bournemouth emblem and Prostate Cancer UK logo on the right leg. Then a SaddleDrunk logo with a gold and red band on the left leg.
The red 'aerated' side panels work really well at controlling temperature, and proudly display the SaddleDrunk branding. The high collar and full length zip ensures that any wind is kept at bay, plus the gilet is easy to get on and off, folding down neatly to fit in a cycling jersey pocket.
Now I can not speak more highly or compliment the amazing guys at SaddleDrunk enough to express how delighted I am.
Setting out on Friday 3rd June 2016 from the Olympic Stadium in London at the start of the London to Amsterdam bike ride, I am confident I will have the best cycling kit of the 450 riders! So I will definitely look the part, even if I won't be the best or fastest rider!!
So let me explain my SaddleDrunk cycling kit...
Jersey
The design on the back of the jersey has my initials, the Prostate Cancer UK logo, then the SaddleDrunk logo. On the middle rear pocket is the AFC Bournemouth emblem.
The black shoulders and sleeves have the Prostate Cancer UK logo, my initials and the SaddleDrunk icon.
The full length zip on the front of the jersey is hidden really well in the design of the black stripe down the middle of the front on the jersey. With the AFC Bournemouth team badge on the left breast, just below my initials and then the Prostate Cancer logo displayed proudly on the left hand side of the shirt.
Finally the two side panels display the SaddleDrunk branding.
The quality of manufacturer and the very professional design makes this the highest calibre cycling jersey I have ever worn. The fit is fantastic and the attention to detail of the materials used is outstanding.
Bib Shorts
Predominately black in design with branding and logos on both outer thighs. Once again the quality and fit is second to none. The fit is perfect and the quality of materials make the 'feel' of the short ideal. The 'pad' is very comfortable and very well made, with silicon grippers on the bottom of the legs, ensures that the shorts stay in place and comfort is not compromised.The branding and design are also brilliant. With an AFC Bournemouth emblem and Prostate Cancer UK logo on the right leg. Then a SaddleDrunk logo with a gold and red band on the left leg.
Gilet
This wind-proof gilet is both practical and a very high quality product. Lightweight with a great fit, this gilet worked really well on my training ride yesterday in the spring sunshine. As you can see in the picture the back of the gilet contains the branding and logos of Prostate Cancer UK, SaddleDrunk and AFC Bournemouth.The red 'aerated' side panels work really well at controlling temperature, and proudly display the SaddleDrunk branding. The high collar and full length zip ensures that any wind is kept at bay, plus the gilet is easy to get on and off, folding down neatly to fit in a cycling jersey pocket.
Surprise Accessories!
On opening my parcel I also discovered two bonus surprise items to compliment my cycling attire! A pair of socks in red, black and white. Plus a retro inspired cycling cap. Both items are simply amazing and brilliant!
As I have blogged about previously (read more here) SaddleDrunk are a cycling company that I discovered via the AFC Bournemouth club shop. They designed and manufactured a range of cycling clothing in AFC Bournemouth club colours that is endorsed and associated to fans favourite and Scotland international player Matt Ritchie.
I can not recommend or promote this company highly enough. Please find the time to visit their website to check out their amazing range of high quality cycling clothing and accessories.
www.saddledrunk.com
A million thank you's to Stefano and the team at SaddleDrunk. Your support has been brilliant. Thank you so much!
A million thank you's to Stefano and the team at SaddleDrunk. Your support has been brilliant. Thank you so much!
Training Ride #14
Managed to get a training ride in yesterday. The first in over two and half weeks, mainly due to getting the flu and then training for the Adidas Silverstone half marathon last Sunday.
Glorious sunshine, plus I got to wear my new bespoke cycling kit from the great guys at SaddleDrunk. I'll blog about this more shortly.
So I managed 15 miles in just over an hour. Still getting used to my new gearing cassette, but I believe it will make hill climbing a lot easier!
Glorious sunshine, plus I got to wear my new bespoke cycling kit from the great guys at SaddleDrunk. I'll blog about this more shortly.
So I managed 15 miles in just over an hour. Still getting used to my new gearing cassette, but I believe it will make hill climbing a lot easier!
Thursday, 17 March 2016
Nice Tweet from AFC Bournemouth
Received a nice tweet from AFC Bournemouth today, helping promote the London to Amsterdam bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK.
The official Twitter account for AFC Bournemouth has over 146,000 followers
The official Twitter account for AFC Bournemouth has over 146,000 followers
Endorsed & Supported by AFC Bournemouth & Matt Ritchie
A really exciting and great day today!
I was invited to the Vitality Stadium, home of AFC Bournemouth, to meet Scotland international and fans favourite Matt Ritchie.
The great guys from the Media and Communications team at AFC Bournemouth (Max, George and Matthew) have formulated an amazing media plan to help support and promote me in the London to Amsterdam charity bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK.
Matt, who is a keen cyclist himself (read the Cycling Plus blog here), wanted to support and help promote the ride. So before training started today Matt kindly gave some of his time to come and meet me, have a chat and then have a few photos taken. Which then can be used as part of the media and promotion plan that has been put together.
Matt is a really nice guy who chatted about his passion for cycling, and even discussed how he personally would have loved to be part of the London to Amsterdam ride, but international football commitments don't allow him to.
Everyone at AFC Bournemouth are being so supportive. A whole host of players all came over and said hello today, and I got to see behind the scenes at both the stadium and the training complex.
Again a massive thank you to George for arranging today, and I look forward to sharing the details and pictures over the next few weeks.
I was invited to the Vitality Stadium, home of AFC Bournemouth, to meet Scotland international and fans favourite Matt Ritchie.
The great guys from the Media and Communications team at AFC Bournemouth (Max, George and Matthew) have formulated an amazing media plan to help support and promote me in the London to Amsterdam charity bike ride for Prostate Cancer UK.
Matt, who is a keen cyclist himself (read the Cycling Plus blog here), wanted to support and help promote the ride. So before training started today Matt kindly gave some of his time to come and meet me, have a chat and then have a few photos taken. Which then can be used as part of the media and promotion plan that has been put together.
Matt is a really nice guy who chatted about his passion for cycling, and even discussed how he personally would have loved to be part of the London to Amsterdam ride, but international football commitments don't allow him to.
Everyone at AFC Bournemouth are being so supportive. A whole host of players all came over and said hello today, and I got to see behind the scenes at both the stadium and the training complex.
Again a massive thank you to George for arranging today, and I look forward to sharing the details and pictures over the next few weeks.
Tuesday, 15 March 2016
Completed My First Half Marathon!
So after a bout of the dreaded flu, I managed to complete my first half marathon on Sunday!
To say I am pleased is an understatement! The Adidas Silverstone half marathon is an amazing event, with 7,000 runners taking on the 13.2 miles around the iconic Silverstone race circuit.
Having missed my last 10 days of training, due to flu, I wasn't feeling that confident as I lined up at the start line on racing circuits starting grid.
But 2 hours and 22 mins later I jubilantly crossed the finish line. Ecstatic that I completed the 13.2 miles in under 2.5 hours (which was my target time).
The support from all the other runners and the large crowds of spectators really helped me.
A great event that I am proud to say that I completed. Plus it all helps with my training for Football to Amsterdam bike ride in June. I'm sure that running 13.2 miles will feel a lot easier than cycling the 145 miles from London to Amsterdam!
To say I am pleased is an understatement! The Adidas Silverstone half marathon is an amazing event, with 7,000 runners taking on the 13.2 miles around the iconic Silverstone race circuit.
Having missed my last 10 days of training, due to flu, I wasn't feeling that confident as I lined up at the start line on racing circuits starting grid.
But 2 hours and 22 mins later I jubilantly crossed the finish line. Ecstatic that I completed the 13.2 miles in under 2.5 hours (which was my target time).
The support from all the other runners and the large crowds of spectators really helped me.
A great event that I am proud to say that I completed. Plus it all helps with my training for Football to Amsterdam bike ride in June. I'm sure that running 13.2 miles will feel a lot easier than cycling the 145 miles from London to Amsterdam!
Monday, 7 March 2016
Man Down With The Flu
Last week became a complete write off for everything after I caught the flu!
I've not felt so sick and unwell, like this, for many many years. Felt the first symptoms last Sunday evening and thought it was just maybe a cold or feeling a bit under the weather. By Tuesday I had the full range of the 'flu'!!
So three days in bed. Off work, no training, no energy, feeling very low!!
Now I understand that we all get unwell at times and I am kind of glad that if I had to get the flu I got it now, some three months before I depart on the London to Amsterdam bike ride.
But this coming Sunday I am running my first half marathon. So my final weeks training plans were totally disrupted and abandoned. I'll have to see how I feel this week and hopefully just try and get around the 13 miles next Sunday.
I've not felt so sick and unwell, like this, for many many years. Felt the first symptoms last Sunday evening and thought it was just maybe a cold or feeling a bit under the weather. By Tuesday I had the full range of the 'flu'!!
So three days in bed. Off work, no training, no energy, feeling very low!!
Now I understand that we all get unwell at times and I am kind of glad that if I had to get the flu I got it now, some three months before I depart on the London to Amsterdam bike ride.
But this coming Sunday I am running my first half marathon. So my final weeks training plans were totally disrupted and abandoned. I'll have to see how I feel this week and hopefully just try and get around the 13 miles next Sunday.
Tuesday, 1 March 2016
Small Injury Impacting Training Rides
Aside from training for the Prostate Cancer UK Football to Amsterdam bike ride in June, I also training for my first half marathon.
Now I'd entered the Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon late last year, before I got my place on the London to Amsterdam bike ride. Hence why I have been balancing my training miles both on and off of my bike.
My running training has gone well, with a training plan where I have been increasing my mileage gradually over the last few weeks.
With the event itself taking place on Sunday 13th March, I completed my longest training run so far of 10.2 miles on Saturday.
It was a little tougher than I had imagined, but I completed it at a good pace and within my target time of just under 2 hours.
But the training run came at a cost, as my achilles became a little swollen and very tight throughout that afternoon and evening. So when I awoke on Sunday to go and do a 35 mile training ride on my bike, I had to quickly rethink and sadly cancel my training ride, as I couldn't take the chance of making the injury worse.
I took some advice from a friend, who advised a couple of days rest.
So my training diary looks a little lean this week. But hopefully I should be running tomorrow and then back on my bike at the weekend.
To read more about the Adidas Half Marathon around the famous racing circuit that is Silverstone, click the link below
https://www.adidashalfmarathon.com/
Now I'd entered the Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon late last year, before I got my place on the London to Amsterdam bike ride. Hence why I have been balancing my training miles both on and off of my bike.
My running training has gone well, with a training plan where I have been increasing my mileage gradually over the last few weeks.
With the event itself taking place on Sunday 13th March, I completed my longest training run so far of 10.2 miles on Saturday.
It was a little tougher than I had imagined, but I completed it at a good pace and within my target time of just under 2 hours.
But the training run came at a cost, as my achilles became a little swollen and very tight throughout that afternoon and evening. So when I awoke on Sunday to go and do a 35 mile training ride on my bike, I had to quickly rethink and sadly cancel my training ride, as I couldn't take the chance of making the injury worse.
I took some advice from a friend, who advised a couple of days rest.
So my training diary looks a little lean this week. But hopefully I should be running tomorrow and then back on my bike at the weekend.
To read more about the Adidas Half Marathon around the famous racing circuit that is Silverstone, click the link below
https://www.adidashalfmarathon.com/
Looking Fine In My New Attire!
A big thank you to the Prostate Cancer UK team who have very kindly sent me an official long sleeve cycling jersey.
I will look very resplendent on my training rides, as I proudly display the Prostate Cancer UK logo and icon!
I will look very resplendent on my training rides, as I proudly display the Prostate Cancer UK logo and icon!
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