Last years summer was so desperate that I only managed an off-road commute once all year, and that was in May. Roll forward to 2014 and what a difference. The trails are baked dry, the sun is shining and it is stiflingly warm even at 6.30 every morning. As well as grabbing a dusty detour after 8 hours in the office, a couple of times recently I have left home early and hit the South Downs before work.
Rather that appearing at my desk tired and weary, I turn up feeling energised and motivated for the day ahead. Plus then knowing you have something fun to look forward to at 5 o'clock makes whatever challenges you might face during the day so much more bearable.
It has been over 2 months since I rode with the boys on a Sunday. To fit with my current training schedule a Lemon Drizzle cake at the coffee stop was required to celebrate!
The new South Downs Bikes team kit has arrived! I must have a strange physique - Small jersey but XL bib shorts!
My laid back recovery continues under sunny skies! Just 30 minutes after work I can be on the South Downs.
I have been taking the chance to explore new trails and found a real gem today. I regularly ride past the bridleway sign near Funtington on my way home, but this time I took the plunge. What I discovered was half a mile of sinuous, snaking singletrack. Hidden, winding between the trees a second trail has formed to avoid the main path, which shows heavy use by horses and is probably impassable when wet. Leading to a derelict farm it provides a perfect link from the south to access the trails at Kingley Vale.
My riding hasn't been that focused in the 7 weeks since face planting tarmac at 30mph. I've been cycling purely for pleasure for the first time in years. Largely saddle time has been squeezed into the mornings and evenings either side of work, leaving weekends for time with the family. I've gone where my wheels take me, and if I don't feel like a horrible climb I'll find a alternative route round. I can sense my confidence isn't quite where it was pre accident and my weight and fitness show signs of my laid back attitude. I'll continue to enjoy my new relaxed approach through the summer before formalising my plans for next year.
