I met Ant this afternoon at Alvechurch Train Station and then he led us along a tortuous 25 mile route over some of the steepest hills I've ever tried to cycle up [since Wales, anyhow]. I had to use the smallest gear on my Boardman, for the first time since I've owned it.
The rain came down for the last 7 miles or so which made descending a little difficult but didn't cause too much of a problem.
The difference in fitness levels was apparent and huge. Ant explained to me that his average speed these days is 19+mph and he didn't want to let it drop below 16mph. Unfortunately, waiting for me meant that the average speed for the 25 miles was less than 14mph. Sorry, Ant.
When climbing up the hills, Ant was chatting away about the house he wants to buy, his Dad, and his experiences in Europe. All I could do in reply was gasp a yes or no between ragged breaths...
When descending, Ant would forget the brakes and weave his way down the hills like a bearded Eddy Merckx. He wouldn't even bother shifting his position. I, on the other hand, would be low in the drops and feathering the brakes as if my life depended on it. He always waited for me at the bottom...
After the ride, we went for a pint [one of the worst bitters I've ever tasted] at the Weighbridge and we were very glad to bump into Jake and his family enjoying a Saturday afternoon in the pub.
In conclusion, 2 months of 'Enduro Training' is no match for a life of cycling and a tour of Europe, coupled with an obvious natural talent for endurance sports.
Today's details according to Roger's Computer:
Time: 1:49.52
Distance: 24.99 miles
Average speed: 13.7mph
Max speed [for me]: 31.5 mph
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