So to complete our double event weekend or triple event week, we thought we'd go for something nice and simple! Instead we went for the London to Brighton bike ride! Now for those of you who don't know what that is or live abroad or have just been asleep, it is exactly what it says it is. A cycle ride from London (Clapham Common to be precise) to Brighton pier. Its around 60 miles through the back roads from south London to the Coast. This is an ever popular event that has been running for a number of years and now has around 50,000 participants. With that, there is a need for staggered starts. Sully and I were due to set off at 7.30am however after a sleepy start to the morning and a burst tyre on the way to the station, it was more like 8.30!
Clapham Common, note Red socks and One T's! |
The course is a gentle amble through the streets of South London where it becomes apparent that the roads aren't closed to other traffic! Then out into the countryside around the Carlshalton area! Along the way there are several designated stops for refuelling and rubbing any weary thighs, all the way to the dreaded Ditchling Beacon! En route we'd heard what looked like experienced men saying things like "its big" and "i won't get the whole way up". Sully and I had agreed to part ways and meet at the top after these comments. As it turns out he smoked up it barely breaking a sweat where as I took the more scenic route and enjoyed what was left of the view as the heavens had opened!
Tommy chilling at the bottom of Ditchling Beacon |
Red Socks! Hooooooooo! |
From the peak it was quite literally all downhill from there, all the way to the sea front, where our planned fish and chips would be waiting for us. Sully and I have a difference of opinion on this event. Sully (who cycles 100 miles a week) thought it was rather easy. Whereas I don't. Either way I think we both enjoyed ourselves and completed event 10. A big thank you to Mr and Mrs C for picking up our bikes, so that we could get the train back.
Event 10, Done |
Also a gentle reminder, we aren't just doing all these events for fun and our own personal pleasure. We are also raising money for One Difference and the great work that they are doing for those less fortunate in Africa! So if you have some spare change or a little more please do donate at our just giving page.
http://www.justgiving.com/30B430
Anything will be much appreciated.