New Forest Duathlon

As regular readers of this web site will know, earlier this year in a moment of madness John H and Jon P signed up to compete in the New Forest Duathlon. A weekend's training in July filled our heads full of what we should do and how we should do it, and with us both knowing our weaknesses (Jon running like a squiffy giraffe and John cycling like a bandy legged cowboy) the boys set about trying to prepare for the event. All too quickly the 25th October had arrived, and the intrepid pair arrived at Sandy Balls just outside Fordingbridge at a ridiculous time on a Sunday morning.

With numbers and time measuring chips collected and fitted, bikes racked in the transition area, all was ready for the event. Well almost; Jon was running around like a deer caught in the high beam of an approaching true. In true Jon form, he had left it up the very last minute to borrow a proper road bike from Ade, had little practice on it, and had not checked that the cleats on his shoes would suit the pedals). Meanwhile John had about 5 visits to the loo. In contrast John’s brother in law Mathew, who was also entered, approached the event in a calm and collected manner, although it must also be said that he had run the course and cycled it many times so was well prepared.

All the 'athletes' were assembled for a briefing on the race format and rules after which we were lead down to the start of the race, this in itself was interesting as the gradient (downhill) would have suited climbing gear. Then, with a shout of "GO!" we were all off, straight back up the steep hill for the start of the 6km run stage.


So not wishing to bore the reader further with a step-by-step appraisal of the event both of us were running almost side by side into the 1st transition stage, although for the assembled world’s press (Mrs John) John had to make sure he was just in front. 30 secs or so later John was out on the bike and heading out into the New Forest roads, 3 or 4 minutes later Jon got his act together and also got out on the bike. Jon soon caught up and took the lead. John managed to keep him in sight but as drafting was not allowed had to hang back (well that was his excuse).


The route undulated over 21km, although not technical the very strong head and cross winds affected all the competitors significantly. 40 or so minutes later, separated by about 30 secs the two of us made it back into the 2nd transition stage, where again John stormed through transition and Jon piffled around like a school girl in a make-up shop. John made it out onto the road just ahead, for the 2nd 5km run stage; the same hilly route was used.

During our training weekend the importance of what is known as 'brick training' was extolled, i.e. conditioning you to the move from a cycle stage to a running stage . Needless to say the name brick is highly appropriate as both of us later agreed that our legs felt like bricks as we tried to get them running again. 26 or so minutes later John ran throught the finish followed a minute later by Jon; Mathew had finished about 9 minutes earlier.


All in all we were both glad we had done it, but also that it was over. The organisation both before and during the event was excellent, certainly miles ahead of the Helly Hanson challenge that John signed the TCA up to a couple of years earlier. The event was also friendly; although tough it seemed to me that all the competitors (including the 2 or 3 elite world champions that turned up!) were all very approachable even whilst competing. As always circumstances seem to conspire to cock your best laid plans up, but both of us knew what we were in for, and the lessons learned during training and the event will help us in future physical challenges.

(Posted by: John)

The Chichester Challenge 2009

A firm fixture in the TCA calendar a hard core of veterans assembled at the start on a overcast, rainy morning. A departure from previous years the ride would set off from Lavant some distance north of Chichester. The organisers announced too that this year would be more of an orienteering event, with less marshalling and signposting around the course. This would cause chaos to riders less familiar with the area throughout the day.

Jerry and Ade were off out of the blocks on the gun, closely followed by Jon. Billy-Bob and Al brought up the rear. The route would be familiar to the TCA - following closely the regular rides of yore from the Parsons Pad. The first punishing climb up Chalkpit Lane was certainly all too familiar and the riders soon got spread out on the ascent.

Billy-Bob and Al split where the 30km and 55km routes diverged - Billy-Bob taking on the shorter route due to recent illness and family commitments. Billy-Bob obviously got back first but Ade was close on his heels. Jerry (who suffered an off, which resulted in a broken rear brake) came in second and at 4h 33m Al finished just as the Billy-Bobs and Ade & Julie were packing up for the day. Rather bizarrely Jon came in last after taking a wrong turn in the wooded section of the route.

Tee arrived later with Jimmy and accompanied Jon and Al to Whetherspoons for a post-ride pint. Thankfully the weather held off and another excellent day was had by all.

Pre-challenge Assembly:
(From Left) Jon, Ad, Jerry, Al
Billy-Bob, Stef, Eli-Bob, Islay

(Posted by: Al)

The Chichester Challenge 2008

After a night spent at Meadow Barn Farm Ed, Ad, Jules and Charlie-man turned up at Oaklands Park dead on 9pm ready for the day ahead. Making their way over with Billy-Bob and Stef they met the rest of the group – Jerry, Jon, John and Gill - who were queuing to confirm registration. Al had spent the night shivering under the duvet, suffering as he was from a mystery illness which confined him to bed. He issued a sicknote at the last minute and was gutted to withdraw from what would have been his fifth Chichester Challenge.

The next problem of the day was the two queues - one to register and one to confirm registration. We obviously queued at the latter. The organisers had however failed to calculate the number of riders who would just turn up and register on the day due to the great weather. As a result, the start was delayed to just after 10am, a depature from the published start of 9.30 am. However this enabled the usual showing of bikes and gear (or lack of it in the case of Billy-Bob) to each other. In the case of John and Jerry they both found that they had the same tastes in kit in that they both had chosen matching white Commencal bikes - they looked like two embarrassed ladies with matching dresses at a wedding!

Left to right: Charlie, Jon, Stef (!), Billy-Bob,
Ad, Ju, Ed, John, Jerry

So after a late start due to a record number of participants the crew soon spread out along Broyle Road – Ed taking the lead, followed by Ad, Jerry and Charlie-man, the two Jo(h)ns then Jules, Gill and Billy-Bob bringing up the rear. The first hill proved to be a bad boy, a killer with Charlie-man being forced to stop part way up for a ‘moment’ before wisely deciding to complete the 30km route instead. Gill had ‘cold shivers’ in the 29 degree heat after two nights out on the trot but ploughed on regardless. Jon rode up in one go losing John, who was later found to pushing his bike up in a "walk of Shame" pose (above). However down the other side of this all riders negotiated a steep rutted flinty track down towards the second hill known as ‘Charcoal Burner’ on account of large wood burning stoves and at this point the leaders headed up in top form, AD and Jerry catching the man in the yellow jersey – Ed – to power on toward the first check point. It was at this point John was struggling with the heat but despite this kept up with Jon, with Julie and Gill leap-frogging them every so often.

The Female contingent: Ju & Gill

Jon rode up to the first check point first amongst this group seeing Ad and Jerry just leave here. It was from here along the South Downs Way stretch from Cocking to Harting that Jerry and Ed left Ad for dust at several points as they sped along with scant regard for personal safety! Meanwhile at this first check point Jon waited for John and whilst waiting saw Julie and Gill arrive chattering away as normal. John arrived and the two Jo(h)n set off after Julie and Gill with the leaders, amongst them, Ade, Jerry and Ed, well ahead by now. At this point I think we had forgotten about Billy-Bob - what friends are we!

Julie reaches Checkpoint 1

Following on behind Julie and Gill and the leaders along the South Downs Way stretch from Cocking to Harting, along Cocking Down, and the Devils Jumps, the Jo(h)ns made good progress especially down "Boneshaker Alley" towards Hooksway, mind you the pub was closed as usual ! It was particularly pleasing to see many cyclists hauled up at the sides of this "alley" with punctures and equipment failures of some sort or another - surely not something that would befall TCA riders! Jules and Gill had thoroughly enjoyed the number of fast down hill sections on it, one of which Jules almost had an ‘off’ when confronted with a particularly deep water gauge but just managed to recover in time... she was probably chattering to Gill thought Jon. The two girls made it to the top of South Harting Down in time to meet Keith (trusty father-in-law with the video camera) to be clocked a mere 15 mins behind the lead riders Ad and Jerry.

John - pre-puncture - tearing up the trail

Further uphill ascents ensured up Beacon Hill saw Jon overtake Julie and Gill but he waited with the two girls for his fellow rider John at check point 2. Jules, Gill, and the two Johns met up again and decided to track down the missing members of the crew: It was quickly established that Charlie-man was on his way round the shorter course and would meet us at the end. It was also discovered that Billy-Bob had completed a superman manoeuvre (most commonly seen in MBUK mags) and had flown over the handle bars down Bone Shaker alley, twisted his handle bars and injured both knees. With superhuman effort he was part way up South Harting Down when contacted - battered and bruised but otherwise fine. John discovered he had problems with his spindle and after a fight over who got to wait for Paul it was decided that as John had to fix his bike then he and Jonny P would gallantly cycle with their wounded comrade.

Billy-Bob demonstrates some
international sign language

Thus we were split it three groups – the Namibian dust-badgers (Ad & Ed) and Jerry (legs of steel) Anstey in the lead, Gill and Jules in the middle followed by the core TCA members. Spurred on by the sight of his father and sporting a huge home-advantage, Ad used the slip stream of some crazy Tandem riders to push on up the hill on the new section of steep Forestry Commission tracks. Jules and Gill, after almost getting lost at this point, proved their prowess (must be the practise in Afan) by beating 4 guys up the hill! The best moment being when the phrase ‘that’s not fair – being beaten by girls!’ was heard as they sped on past on a steep up hill track. With head down and bum up Ad continued through to Checkpoint 3 (Stoughton) where he hopped off the bike to plough through some cereal/fruit bars and Lucozade drink! He then got beaten on a short but steep uphill section out of Walderton having to take to two feet, through the gate (Gill and Jules also getting caught out here some time later). Through the long, fast, sweeping downhill section that followed, Ad picked up a rear blow-out (scaring the 4 picnic’ers in the adjacent field) and fully expected his team buddies to fly past!

Meanwhile, somewhere behind, Jules, who had ridden the course the year before, was offering Gill false hope by mistakenly referring to the third-to-last hill as the final one. After much effort, hot, uphill climbing and overtaking they reached the top of the final hill they took a breather to take in the sights. They were not to be disappointed as the Isle of Wight was clearly visible along the coastline and even the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth could be made out, surreal in the distant haze.

Three Dustbadgers: Charlie, Ad, Ed
enjoy a cuddle at the finish

The riders all pushed through to the balloon clad finish line to nurse sore muscles and replenish lost liquids and nutrients (with coke & burgers) and were greeted by their support crew - Al, T and baby Jimmy! They had had their own fun and games: Ill, but not wishing to miss out, Al had filled his cool box with ice-cold drinks, chocolate bars and energy gel and had driven to the Buriton check-point for 11.30am. In all previous years this had been the furthest check point before the turn for home, when energy levels were at a low ebb. This year however a last-minute route change left the car-park desserted except for a few dog-walkers. Not a fluorescent jacket in sight! Therefore, after driving round the fringes of West Sussex for almost an hour without seeing hide nor hair of a mountain biker, the three decided to cut their losses and head for the finish. Jimmy seemed to enjoy it most - the musicians, balloons and other infants provided ample entertainment until the TCA riders arrived to give a little of their attention.

The support crew were amazed when Charlie crossed the line first. No offence to the guy but he had the likes of Jerry and Ad to contend with, whose cyling prowess is legendary on this event! Charlie explained that he had overdone the start and, exacerbated by the heat, had decided to follow the 30km route rather than hack round the longer 55km route feeling grim. Ad was some 60mins later, looking as if he had been out for a Sunday afternoon stroll (only the moaning and rolling around on the floor gave away the real story), Jerry next, then the girls at about 15.00.

Al, Jimmy & Tee
enjoying their day out as spectators

A selection of refreshments were available from the Scout's tent (the WI cake stand and beer tent again conspicuous by the absence) but, much to Ad's dismay the ice-cream had run out - [Note to the organisers - you need more that 28L of ice cream when the temperature's over 30 degrees C! Ed.]. Information slowly dribbled in regarding the fate of the other three missing riders but the accuracy of the reports that they were "15 minutes behind" could not be relied on. Besides which, Al, Tee and Jimmy had eaten their fill of burgers, cups of tea, cans of coke and pureed vegetables and, Jimmy in particular, was getting restless. They could wait no longer - they packed up at 3.30 bound for home.

Bikes are discarded after the race
at the hospitality tent

Meanwhile…. somewhere way back in the forests on route to Checkpoint 3 which seemed to take forever to reach were the dogged TCA contingent, the Jo(h)ns regularly stopping to wait for their injured colleague in true Band of Brothers fashion. Billy-Bob, hoping to shake off his earlier injury, was forever cursing every bump and rutt as he bounced down the new route on Forestry Commission tracks (damn those event organisers!), and blaming his first generation coil sprung forks and dodgy knee joint. Grimacing every time he caught back up with the TCA advance party only to find yet again John had upended his bike and was yet again replacing another supposedly puncture-less inner tube.

For what seem to be turning into a true TCA epic on one of the hottest days of the year, the pain continued with yet more punctures and dwindling water supply leading John to complain about heat exhaustion. Billybob even considered an abort after checkpoint 3, knowing full well to continue up the final few hills may well see a premature end to his cycling career. In the spirit of the TCA he circumnavigated the last hilly section before the final check point by taking a cheeky unofficial road route which allowed him to rendezvous, for once ahead of the Jo(h)ns, who had announced they had used up the last spare on Jon’s fourth puncture of the day!

As the sun was setting and the event organisers were packing up their tents and event cards the intrepid trio were greeted on the final run in and escorted to the finish line by Ade and Jules who had patiently hung around to see them finish, fair play to them. Were we last? Possibly, who cares - we finished. Close, but no cigar this year and, more importantly, no coke and burgers!

Another eventful Chichester Challenge in the blistering conditions which seem to inevitably accompany the occasion. Thrills, spills, laughs and burgers (for some) - roll on 2009!

(Posted by: Ad, Paul, Al & Jon)

Dessert Storm takes on the London to Brighton

The London to Brighton British Heart Foundation 54 mile on-road race is the UK's largest charity bike ride with 27,000 riders cycling the scenic route between London and Brighton on the south coast.

Since 1980 when the BHF first became involved with the London to Brighton Bike Ride, over 650,000 riders have taken part in the event and more than £40 million has been raised to help fund pioneering research, patient care and vital information. (Please click on the picture above to donate). This year team Dessert Storm – catch phrase ‘Bring on the pudding!’ took up the challenge, made up of 5 ‘Dustbadgers’: AD Matthews, Charlie Gough, Jenny Moran, Charlie Sims, Ed Hazeldean and a coupla extras (and initial organisers) Jules (Prouting) Matthews and Gill Salisbury.

We met on mass in London on the Saturday night and so began a frantic attempt to prepare for the following day. Last minute bike repairs were made, race cards lost and found, team flags named and attached to bikes, tubes blown (way to go AD) and debates over the weather forecast (how can the BBC give three different forecasts in one day!??) and what to take by way of waterproofs were had before we all uploaded and headed for the pub for some quality English grub.

Rising bright and early on Sunday morning we made a good start from Jenny’s flat in Camberwell and commenced our 3.7 mile warm-up ride (courtesy of Charlie-man’s GPS) to Clapham Common. This took us through the surprisingly quiet streets of London picking up unknown competitors on route swelling the ranks of the relatively small peleton. Despite the knowledge of many miles ahead some play cycling was had to get to the grounds. Once at Clapham Common it became obvious that we, along with about 20,000 others were starting in staggered rows from 7.30am onwards which made the opportunity for a quick toilet stop in bushes as opposed to queuing for the portaloos an attractive option. Then time for a quick team photo before heading toward the start line.

Team Dessert Storm: bring on the pudding!

We stood in the 8.00am queue full of anticipation for the ride ahead, proving too much in some cases when more than half the group succumbed to the portaloos leaving AD, Jules and Jenny holding 7 bikes. Finally, the race started and it was all go. Or should have been but tens of thousands of people trying to get through the streets of London, on bikes, close together, with SPDs and lots of starts and stops meant that it took us around 1 and a half hours to cover the first 10 miles to the outskirts of the big city. Just like being stuck in stop start traffic on the M25 but worse as the danger of crashing is so much greater! Luckily the group emerged from the mass of cyclists together, frustrated but unscathed, expecting a freer ride now the city was left behind. Despite upholding the great English tradition of keeping to the left if going slowing (think motorway and London tube stations!) it was still frustratingly congested and hard to pass slower riders without cunning, aggressive (and sometimes, lets admit it, showy) riding (no names mentioned). We hit the first hill and as more and more people got off to walk so the congestion worsened and formed a bottleneck. Jules and Charlie took the lead, attacking the hill not at speed but with guile and gradually gained on the lead police car but despite their best efforts became stuck behind an impenetrable wall of riders. Not far behind Charlie-girl was pumping up the hill when a man in front of her stopped suddenly, with nowhere to go but down she fell with the bike, the first (but not the last) Dessert Storm casualty of the day. Bouncing back up she was at the top in no time and the team headed for hill no 2. This was reached at the 20 mile mark and once again the road became thick with riders. Once at the top Dessert Storm and the rest of the riders came to a grinding halt as an accident impeded any further progress for the next half hour.

‘Riders take a break whilst waiting for traffic to clear.’

Making the most of the sun, the team members (minus AD who was stuck somewhere up ahead) chatted, applied sunscreen, snacked and made friends with the random cyclists surrounding them. Stayed away from the old guy with the big sidies and the blow up doll though! AD eventually made his way to the team and the crowd started to move forward, passed the Dog and Duck pub. At around the 25 mile mark we flew passed the Burstow Scouts and on toward the second biggest hill of the ride, Turners Hill, at the top of which marked the half way point.

At the top of the hill we were met by Ed’s Mum, Dad and sister who had a spot on the green by the Lancing Brass Band with a prime time view of our fellow racers including punks, the pink panther, Fred Flintstone, Batman and the 118 118 men. We enjoyed a quick lunch in the rapidly fading sun and contemplated whether or not we’d get to Brighton before the forecast heavy showers set it in. Jules and Gill decided their KDC MBC luck would hold and rain would be avoided. So we took off with minds set on completing the last 24 miles and the giant obstacle that is Ditchling Beacon.

After an 8 mile blitz we passed the entrance to the Ardingly Showground and continued to push on stopping only for a water refill. Jules took on board another 2 litres after emptying her camelpack and whilst the other girls pushed on towards Ditchling, the boys waited (by accident only a few metres in front of 4 official photographers stationed on the gentle rise leaving Lindfield). After a few minutes we started to help the camera men and women out by making jokes to the traffic as they rose out of the picturesque village.

Once Jules rejoined the team, the remaining foursome took the chance to use their speed and try their overtaking skills on the hundreds of riders surrounding them. Ad & Jules tried slip streaming one another to save valuable energy for the last slog! Soon the group were up together again and closing in on their pre-arranged Ditchling break.

We pulled of the road and enjoyed a break from the saddle before planning our tactics for the ascent and descent before meeting the city limits. The Ditchling Village rest and refreshment stop had all the usual treats, portaloos, drinking water, bike mechanics and resting space in the gardens of a beautiful private dwelling opened up by the owner who welcomed everyone into the garden and was happy to have several hundred strangers spread out across his manicured lawns.

The time had come and the ascent had to be nailed, so we mounted up and started pumping those peddles, most of us chose to stay right and ride as fast as we could overtaking where possible. ‘The Beacon’ had been billed as ‘nothing we had ever summitted before’ due in the main to the sheer number of riders and more particularly walkers choking the narrow road. When the 400m rest stop sign was passed it spurred us on and when the PA system could be heard clearly enthusing the riders to keep going the ascent was basically over and gave us time to lower the heart rates, calm the breathing and take in the panorama. Not that this was a race, but the order was Ed, Ad, Charlie Man, Jules, Gill, Jen and Charlie Girl. We regrouped and started the long descent toward the finish, Charlie Man and Ed streaked away whilst AD was looking back the other way, leaving the local yokel in their wake. It took the next 10 minutes of flat out peddling by Mr. Matthews and good luck at the traffic lights for the 3 boys to be in convoy once again. The last section along the half open roads through Brighton was a little interesting as the group were more used to non-traffic routes, so the boys tried their hands at lane hoping and white-lining between the steady and stopped traffic on the busying roads.

In sight of the finish and Ad faked a sprint then sat back in the saddle, but it was too late and Charlie and Ed zoomed away once again crossing the finish before jamming the anchors to receive their medals in efficient BHF organised fashion.

The group re-gathered and beat their way through the thousands of finishers and on lookers between Madeira drive and the Beach towards the fish and chip stands for a well earned dinner, however the weather was turning sour and the group decided to head for the bus and get back to the big smoke! This seemed to be going well and with bikes carefully bubble wrapped and in the truck and tired bums on the coach seats we were happy… Then after being stationary in Streatham for 25 minutes, the driver announced that a tube station fire had caused the hold up and was unlikely to be cleared for an hour at least, so we took the option to off load 100 passengers and bikes and ride the remaining 5ish miles back to Jenny’s flat!

Charlie Man off-loading!

Ride Elevation (click to enlarge):

If you think Dessert storm have earnt their pudding
you can add to the value raised on behalf of
the British Heart Foundation by clicking HERE!

(Posted by: Ad)

Helly Hansen Adventure Challenge

Dubbed the "Weavers Down Autumn Assault" this was the third of four events which make up the Helly Hansen Adventure Challenge Series 2007 organised by TrailPlus for teams of three, and TCA(UK)'s first foray into the world of multi-sport, long the staple of TCA(NZ) activities. John had spotted an advert for the event and he, Al and Jon all hoped the rather steep entry fee of £125 a team would prove good value for money.

Having topped up with a high-carb breakfast John and Emma picked Al up at 07.45 on a cold, frosty morning for the short trip up the A3 to the Longmore Camp army base near Bordon; Emma had volunteered for marshaling duties and we were bound to arrive well before the start. Early arrival gave John and Al plenty of time to register the team, pick up the finalised itinerary, check out the transition area and discuss tactics as they waiting for Jon (who had a cross-country journey following a wedding in Gloucestershire) to arrive. We wondered what kind of state Jon would turn up in; whether he would have been able to avoid temptation at the reception the night before. With the ample car park steadily filling up Jon finally arrived at 09.00 a little tired but having only had a small glass of wine to toast the happy couple. Jon reassured the others that his breakfast of buffet leftovers: Pizza; quiche; sausage rolls; crisps and sandwiches, was what all the elite athletes were eating these days.

Pre-Event Fettling

Wrapped up against the cold we assembled our equipment in the frost then made our way to the transition area to set up our bikes, accessories and nutrition - finally assembling with the 750+ other competitors for the first leg of the challenge: The pre-event instructions had suggested that we would have (in no particular order) a 10km run, a 20km cycle, a 1 km kayak and some 'surprise challenges along the way'. We were issued with final instructions as we registered and considered the implications of the finalised itinerary: 3km run, 25km cycle (2 x 12.5km laps), 3km run, kayak, 3km run and an assault course. ASSAULT COURSE? We certainly hadn't bargained for that!

Team Titchfield Cycling Association, ready for anything
(Left to right: Al, Jon, John)

The horn sounded at 10.10 and we set off at a reasonable pace towards the back of the 'first wave'. There followed an uphill run on sandy terrain, though some woods and finally a descent back to the transition phase. It was incumbent on all teams to stay together for the full course of the event and the first run provided us with an early opportunity to get the hang of communicating in a pack of other athletes, pacing ourselves and generally sticking together. We were so confident towards the end of the stage that we even up-ed the pace a little, overtaking a few of our competitors on the downhill section.

Entering the transition we were amazed to see how many of the bikes already seemed to have disappeared. Nevertheless we took our time changing shoes, taking in fluids and gearing up for the mountain biking. It soon became clear that the field had not spread out as far as we thought; the early single-track sections of the route were clogged with competitors. Again we had to put some work in simply to stay together but we effectively started to work our way past natural obstacles and other competitors stranded in the mud. The course itself was a undulating track over variable, occasionally muddy terrain: The early sections of the course were sandy, heavily rutted and hard-going; the course then opened out onto the heath-land of Weavers Down and into the woods. On both laps we chose to take a break in a clearing at the top of the most punishing climb; it seemed that many of the other competitors chose to get their breath back here too and there was some friendly banter amongst the teams. There then followed a descent through the woods which made up approximately a quarter of the route and which was the most enjoyable section with steep drop-offs, jumps and perhaps more significantly a break from the unrelenting climb. As usual where Jon and John had pulled away up to the apex of the course, Al made up for his lack of progress on the way down. Clear of the other competitors, and with a mutual understanding of each others technique after hours in the saddle together on weekly rides, team TCA really came into it's own; the second lap seemed much easier desite a few minor gremlins in Al's front mech and we entered the transition together and relatively happy with our performance.

The TCA in their natural environment

Off the bikes and into running shoes once more; yet more sports drink and a welcome breather at the transition. We set off on the second run of the day bound for the kayaking event. While we did feel tired it was disconcerting just how much our legs were complaining about being made to run again. Our pace was limited as we left the transition and settled into a jog. All the training seemed in vain as we struggled to run at any sort of pace and were forced to walk up even the slightest incline. The run took us through a wooded section, over some heathland and then through the marshy bed of Woolmer Pond, often ankle deep in mud.

Like fish out of water

Eventually we reached the lake and listened to barked instructions relating to the next stage: Two out of three competitors were to paddle the kayak a third of the way round the lake while the other ran to the same point. The runner would then swap with one of his team members who would continue the run, returning back to the starting point while the others completed the lap of the lake (this longer run section suspiciously felt as if it had been cobbled together at the last minute to keep the third team member occupied!). Since John H was the only team member with any significant experience he was chosen as the only member of the team to stay in the Kayak for the course of the section; Jon P had demonstrated that he had the freshest legs and was up for the longer run; Al therefore pulled on a life jacket and set off on the shorter run to the rendezvous point while the others grabbed a two-man inflatable kayak. Al observed the other team's techniques as he waited for his by-now water-borne team mates: A pair had capsized their inflatable kayak and others were struggling to find their footing on the unstable fringes of the lake while swapping crew. When team 39 Kayak arrived Al hauled the bows ashore to help John disembark onto sound footing before he got in and pushed off. We had a sense of satisfaction with our change-over as we watched others get into a terrible mess with their's. Al and John's morale was further boosted as they steered their way through the numerous rudderless teams having trouble even paddling in the right direction. There were even some close encounters with more competitive teams, at one stage Al caught the rear crew member of another kayak in the face with his paddle... but stopped short of pulling his cutlass - avast me hearties!

John and Al completed the course, disembarked and hauled their inflatable kayak onto the shore where a scene of confusion and disarray greeted them: Other competitors with (and without) life jackets waiting for their team mates on the longer run, some setting off to meet them. John and Al waited a few minutes and finally saw Jon approaching them through the marsh. Having discarded our life jackets we jogged back out to the first rendezvous point and on towards the rather ambiguous point where Jon had had to run to on the longer leg. This section was treacherous under foot and made more difficult by competitors running in either direction. Still, we gained some sense of satisfaction that we had miraculously understood the instructions as we saw whole teams still in life jackets, or individuals who had misinterpreted the instructions in some way.

By now our legs were really complaining; stride lengths getting involuntarily shorter and shorter as we followed the track back to the transition on our final 3km run through Woolmer Forest. With no hydration since the bike stop our resources where running out and many others running along side us seemed in similar shape. We re-crossed the A3 and finally made it back where the elements of the 'assault course' were explained:

'Walk the Plank' entailed the three of us standing on two planks (one for left feet, one for right) with loops of rope for the toes of the persons at the front and rear. Teams had to walk on these like some bizarre snow shoes around a marked course. It took us a while to figure out the best technique but after much wailing and gnashing of teeth we could eventually give up the planks and jog to the 'Sack Race'. Here we were each required to put one leg in a single sack and navigate another short course. This we did without too much fuss before another short run to a more conventional element of an assault course; the Cargo Net, under which we had to crawl. This inevitably ended in a muddy puddle a few inches deep from where we had to tackle the final obstacle - the Slippery Wall. We watched as the team in front made a complete hash of this, their final stranded member struggling to grab the apex of the wall before sliding back into the mire from whence he came. Somehow, instinctively we knew what we had to do to end our ordeal - John and Al, with their low center of gravity conquered the leading edge of the wall, sitting astride the apex, before grasping Jon's hands as he reached up and helping him over, the perched pair finally descending. The applause from the crowd which greeted our efficiency was almost worth the effort! Crossing the finish line felt even better.

Teamwork proves the key to the 'slippery wall' obstacle

Finishing the event 91st out of 132 all-male teams (134th out of the total 219 teams) we had our official photograph taken and were presented with our 'goody bag' which contained all those things an exhausted athlete might require after 4 hours rigorous exercise: the obligatory t-shirt,a packet of pretzels, a Helly Hansen catalogue, numerous fliers advertising future TrailPlus events and a box of 10 Yorkshire Tea bags: "They're just on the sell!" exclaimed Jon. Fun though it was we were expecting better considering the comparatively high entry fee. Between us we had few minor gripes about the event: It could have a been better organised (an apparently hastily arranged 'wave' start, further delay to the start because registrations could not be processed quickly enough, hurried final instruction issued via megaphone before the start and incomprehensible instructions barked at us before the kayaking event); it could have been better marshaled; it could have had more water stops (it was incumbent on competitors to be self sufficient in terms of hydration 'as part of the challenge' but we felt this was a cop-out on such a long and grueling event). What did TrailPlus do with the all the money... teabags? I ask you! We wait in anticipation to see the inevitably exorbitant prices of the 'official' event photographs!

Thank God it's all over!

Typically the completion of such a strenuous event should leave competitors with a sense of achievement but we just felt worn out; it was difficult to benchmark our performance against other more standardised formats of event or anything else we had taken part in. While this event certainly provided a unique challenge we found it frustrating to have to complete such random exercises at the 'plank walk' and 'sack race', losing time we had tried hard to accumulate in the running and riding sections (and put weeks of training in to attain).

Nevertheless, back at the van we reflected that the real achievement was that our differing personalities complimented each other so well when team-work was required. We already have an ethos of sticking together, going at the slowest participant's pace for the benefit of collective enjoyment at the TCA, but our teamwork as such had never been tested. For this reason it was deemed a highly worthwhile and enjoyable exercise, worthy of a second attempt at a similar event in due course.

The camper van was a God-send - providing a place to get changed and allowing John (above, left) to whip-up a cup of tea to compliment the fresh cream scones and custard tarts he had bought in advance; now THERE'S organisation for you!

Area Map (Click to Enlarge):

(Posted by Al; Photos by Em)

The Chichester Challenge 2007

Understanding that endurance sport is all about preparation Al was woken by his alarm at 05:45 this Sunday morning: After weeks of hard training and a strict diet he had only to complete the essential last-minute 'carbo load' before the event. A customary breakfast of Poweraid sports drink, cereal and the all important banana were consumed to provide energy and hydration for the day ahead. A few miles away John H was going through a similar routine: making up his favoured SIS performance drink to replace lost electrolytes and fluid on the course, and packing his precious GO Gel into his back pack. Final tweaks were made to equipment, essential tools and spares were checked (and re-checked) and performance clothing and lucky socks (set aside some days before) were donned with anticipation, before bikes were loaded into cars for the journey to the long-awaited City of Chichester International Challenge.

It was with with some surprise that Al found Jon P still asleep when he arrived at his house at 07.30. Hurriedly getting up and throwing on some clothes to answer the door, Jon gulped back half a cup of tea while trying to locate the various basics required for the days ride. He was almost ready as John H and then Jerry swung into his drive looking tense. We all mumbled our hellos and nervously readied for the off under the thick grey clouds - the weather forecast was foreboding - cool, overcast conditions were predicted with the threat of thundery showers looming, in total contrast to the searing heat of the previous year's event.

We made the short, familiar trip through the city centre to the start of the course in Oaklands Park (Map 1, SU862054). Shortly after registering our entries and picking up route maps we were joined by established Associates Ad and Ju who arrived with Ed and Charlie, veterans of a previous campaign. The reunion and the prospect of the highest TCA turnout in history lightened the mood. Ad showed off the latest tweaks on the ex-Billy-Bob machine - shiny new hydraulic disc brakes would get their first run-in today! After some neglect though Ad's forks were running quite flat so Al commandeered a fork pump from one of the gear stands to adjust the pressure [For future reference: 50 psi in each leg]. Charlie showed off his new GPS unit and was nominated as Route Calibration Officer by Al, who realised that his was still at Jon P's house. Debates about whether or not to wear waterproofs were the topic of conversation, although the weather was still holding out.

Team TCA '07 (from left):
John; Al; Jon; Ju; Ad; Ed; Jerry; Charlie

Before long we were lined up by the officials and set off to the sound of the air-horn. 300+ cyclist on machines - ranging from top-of-the range models with carbon composite frames, to basic Halfords mountain bikes (and all points in between) - crossed the start line. Al took off first, slipstreaming a couple of hardcore off-roaders, followed by Jon, then Jerry, then John, all adopting a maverick approach. The peloton of Ad, Ju, Ed and Charlie brought up the rear, commendably bringing a team ethos to the event, but never to be seen again by the mavericks that day.

Heading due north and climbing gently out of Chichester Jon P finally caught Al just before the first checkpoint (SU858122). The sharp descent approaching West Dean and Jon's Fumbling to find his checkpoint card meant Al was away from the checkpoint first. His lead was short-lived however as, first Jerry and then Jon caught and overtook him on the punishingly steep ascent out of the village (Map 2). Al managed to hold onto Jon until the next serious ascent through Westdean Woods towards the South Down Way, as the sun came out and the temperature rose contrary to the forecast. The Mavericks were again separated for a time; Jerry would stay out in front for the rest of the day.

Approaching the second checkpoint (SU849171) a speeding, lycra-clad elite rider abruptly announced his intention to overtake Jon on a fast downhill section. Jon allowed himself a wry smile as the rider got past but then hit a rut and was catapulted over the handlebars and head-long into a barbed-wire fence. Only his pride was dented thought Jon, but Al caught up with (who he presumed was) the same rider a few minutes later at the first checkpoint trying to beat a huge buckle out of his front wheel; the day was over for this competitor.

Towards South Harting from the Downs

Al eventually caught Jon again on the ascent to Harting Down. Al figured that he was now in his stride since Jon is usually stronger going up hill. It was only later that Jon explained he had paused to take a few snaps with his new camera. Nevertheless the pair stayed together (primarily due to gremlins in Jon's rear mech.) all the way through to the third checkpoint at the QE park above Buriton. The pair seemed to settle into a more relaxed pace and even stopped for a snack (below), sitting on their customary log (SU765192). This year Al's snack of choice was the highly ethical Chocolate and Raisin GeoBar while Jon favoured an Alpen Nutty Chocolate 'Groove' Bar, for two years in a row Jon again seemed to have selected the more palatable choice of sustenance.


Having remounted it was only a short spin to the next checkpoint (SU733198) where they got the cards stamped for the third time and took on board some water. The pair were closely followed by John H who looked grateful for the refreshment. The three set off together to start the pleasant down-hill road-based section of the route towards Huckswood Lane. It was around this point, as we headed off-road again, when Jon P started paying for his scant regard to basic nutritional requirements earlier in the day; he was complaining of cramp in one leg as the sun beat down on the sweating competitors. Jon took time out to nurse his muscles while John H and Al continued without him bound for the forth checkpoint at Stoughton (SU801115). Jon P caught up briefly while the other two chatted to a collection of riders gathered at the checkpoint, one being patched up by another after a nasty-looking leg injury. However, after a brief flat road section out of the checkpoint, Jon P was suffering again on the long ascent towards Kingley Vale. John H seemed to be experiencing the complete opposite - fueled on by his SIS energy products - he produced a reserve of energy and strength for the climb. John and Al stayed together for the remainder of the ride: the descent towards Chichester; through the fifth and final checkpoint (SU834083); down the winding country lanes to the outskirts of town and over the finish line back at Oaklands Park, where we could finally catch up of the progress of others and tales of crashes we had collectively witnessed on our way round.

Thankfully we had all avoided major incident although Ed (the only one of us with un-padded shorts) was apparently complaining of severe saddle-soreness towards the end of the ride. This was exacerbated by the fact that his legs tired and he had no choice but to remain seated. His companions in the peloton reported that he seemed to be grimacing with pain for a large part of the ride and was particularly grateful for any opportunity to dismount along the way. Top TCA marks to Ed though who traveled from Bristol, leaving at 05:00 having had too much sun the day before and too little sleep that night, to make our pre-event meeting at 08:00. Commendation too to Ad who demostrated the TCA's generous spirit by saved an ailing Canadian rider from impending doom; the loan of a tyre lever enabled him to fix a puncture and continue the ride. (On hearing about this after the ride it was with a faint tinge of guilt that Al recalled someone with a North American accent explaining to him that he though he had a 'slow' as they climbed away from the Royal Oak at Hooksway together; "good luck mate!" hailed Al as they reached the subsequent descent, assuming that his new friend had all the necessary equipment to ameliorate the situation).

Jerry, also sailing past other stricken riders on the course without a thought, finished first in approximately 3h 40min; John H and Al coming in together about 30 minutes later at approximately 12:40; Jon P was 10 minutes behind hampered by cramp and technical difficulties in the final section on the course. We congregated around Jerry who was reclining on the grass in the sun with a welcome can of coke. Having finally crossing the line, notching up close to 37 miles in the process, it was a relief to dismount our sore behinds from saddles. We immediately began looking to refuel our depleted energy resources. It was at that point when, to our horror, we realised that there was no WI home made cake stand this year - the highlight of previous year's outings. We thought of the trauma counseling that would have had to be employed for Billy-Bob if he was amongst our number! Turning to the Scouts burger stand (invited in place of the WI on account of it being their centenary year) we were relieved to see that amongst the hot dogs and bacon butties were (albeit a smaller selection) home-made cakes too. The horrific revelations were not over however when, as we turned with burgers and cake in hand to find refreshment, it became apparent that there was no beer tent this year either! All that way, and for what? Home and hosed the mavericks sought solace in a cup of tea as they sheltered from the light rain which had begun to fall as Jon crossed the line.

John, Al, Jerry and Jon returned to base feeling a little cheated. Their day's wasted John and Jerry packed bikes into their cars and headed home. Al and Jon reflected on the day's events over another cup of tea as thunder crashed, lightening flashed and the heaven's opened releasing torrential rain. Cake or no cake, beer or no beer - at least they were indoors unlike Ade, Ju, Charlie and Ed - the peloton were still suffering somewhere out there on the course, eventually coming in at about 13:45.

Route - Map 1 - South (click to enlarge)
Checkpoints shown as red spots:
Route - Map 2 - North (click to enlarge)
Checkpoints shown as red spots:

Elevation Profile:

(Posted by Al; Pictures by Jon; Maps courtesy of Charlie)

Specialized Challenge Series, Staunton Country Park

After the longest layoff in TCA history Al, Jon and John met up at Staunton Country Park to take part in the local ride in the Specialized Challenge Series. It was a beautiful morning as we checked in for the ride, picking up our instructions, number plate and wrist band. Registration took place between 08:00 and 10:00 and riders were free to start the 45km route at their leisure between 09:00 and 12:00. The advertised route was a single lap but (possibly due to the recent heavy rain) two laps of a shorter route made up the course. We were a little surprised that there were only about 200 riders pre-registered for the event; we set off on our own without another rider in sight at 09:16.

We had decided before-hand to take this, the first major ride of summer, at a steady, sociable pace and try our best to stay together. With the sun beating down and the temperature already into the mid-20s centigrade this proved a wise option as we settled into the saddle and caught up with each other’s activities over the last four weeks.

The route itself was a satisfyingly diverse range of terrain: fire track, woodland paths, graveled road and open meadow. There were also a couple of more technically demanded sections – some tight weaving through trees and over felled logs and some pretty muddy bits too. The only unpleasant sections were short stretches over freshly-mown fields which were very, very bumpy and pretty hard going on the posterior.

The course gently undulated as it looped around the park. However, towards the end of the lap there was a seriously steep hill. On our first lap we stopped after the climb to get our breath back, take on energy drinks and bars (Jon indulging in some seriously dodgy-looking Japanese lychee jelly snacks left over from his trip to Hong Kong in October). At our leisurely pace we crossed the line for the first lap at 1h 20m and completed the full 45km in 2h 43m. We hosed our bikes down and marveled at the speed with which personalized certificate were produced. Less impressive was the goody bag issued to finishers – one might expect more than a can of Red Bull and a water bottle for the rather steep entry fee of £15. Unfortunately we neglected to take a camera and have no images of the event. However, we do have some rather nasty plastic medals to remind us of a very pleasant day out!

(Posted by: Al)

The Black Stump Adventure

It has been mentioned on previous TCA posts that part of the ethos of its members is to continue onwards even if conditions are unfavorable. The previous week in the North Island had seen torrential rain following the tail end of Hurricane Catherine and conditions underfoot even on surfaced roads were at best described as 'wet'. Billy-Bob knew it was time for a ride and, when faced with the choice of staying in bed Saturday morning and listening to the howling rain, wind and splash of cars passing by outside the flat or ‘kit up’ at 8am and head north to the rolling volcanic hills of Glen Massey to take part in the endurance Black Stump ride, there was little choice…Bring it on!

A gathering of riders

The Black Stump Adventure Ride mountain biking event is hosted on a local family run sheep and beef farm and is into its second year. Race categories were 40km, 30km 18km and 12km: Knowing full well it was 100% off road action, with no metaled track or gravel surface in sight, Billy-Bob opted for the 18km ride. The average 18km time was given on the entry form as roughly 2h 15m, which would mean he would be back nicely in time for breakfast before Mrs B.B. awoke from her slumber…or so he thought.

Pre-race nerves

The race rules were simple; complete the course against the clock and make it back in one piece without injury. Billy-Bob arrived early and promptly registered ready for the challenge. Riders were herded into the four empty sheep pens depending on which race they had entered. Riders then assumed their positions to noises of Grrrr and Baaaa and waited for the staggered start at 5 minute intervals. The farm was rustic and the facilities were basic, with the owner standing on the back of his pickup and starting each race with a fire of his rifle. The shot echoed in the early morning mist and must have pierced an overhead cloud as seconds later it started to rain, hard.

The start was a steep climb, up and up some more, which immediately sorted the men from the boys. Billy-Bob felt his lungs rip and knee joints crack in this first mammoth ascent. It was so muddy under tire that it was hard to get any form of traction in low gear (a condition known only too well to TCA riders), and the rear tire just spun in the mud, the descents were not much better and saw many a rider lose it in the side ditches.

What was great about this ride was the huge cross section of riders taking part ranging from the hardcore full suspension crowd with energy supplements coming out of their ears, to the older rider on his/her shopping bike. Old and young alike were there and they meant to get muddy. After the second downhill Billy-Bob had to stop and give aid to a young rider, by the name of Scott who must have been 8 years old, and who happened to have lost his balance and gone head over heels on a sharp slippery downhill bend. He had landed awkwardly and sadly dislocated his little knee and embedded his SPD peddles into his thigh. Billy-Bob stopped and gave aid until his father arrived a few minutes later, but sadly it was the end of the race for this brave soldier deserved of a TCA junior merit badge.

Not a flat route

Not deterred by the sight of blood so early in the race Billy-Bob continued on this unforgiving rolling hill circuit and was reminded at many a juncture of a TCA ride in Dorset a few years back where hill after hill tested the stamina and sanity of riders. The circuit continued to get churned up by the lead pack and many a time were weary riders seen walking their bikes up steep mud chutes. The 9km point was reached at 1 hr 20 minutes. Surely this could not be right but the cycle computer did not lie! At the 11km mark, to Billy-Bob’s relief, the sun came out and the gradients became gentler, although the tracks were just pure clay. Some riders on the 30km race had taken the option to abort and switch to the shorter 18km circuit even though their times would not count. Billy-Bob was glad he had opted for the shorter circuit.

A tad on the muddy side

The ride was long and hard but the landscape was stunning with its rolling unforgiving volcanic hills. Whilst each ascent was hell in the mud Billy-Bob was grateful for the opportunity to once again get off-road on this private farmland which would otherwise be off limits to riders. The midday sun arrived to coincide with the emptying of Billy-Bob’s trusty CamelBak. The last 5km would be long and tiresome without hydration and cramp had started to set in. The finish line was a welcome site and crossed at 1pm - what he would have given for a cake stall at that minute but only a burger stand was on hand. To cap off a muddy, wet, sodden ride the bike was hosed down and then dunked in the communal bike bucket/sheep dip. To his amazement Billy-Bob’s name was called out and he had won a spot prize! – one months gym membership… perhaps they were trying to tell him something.

A quick sneaky burger then home for brunch.

On the Black Stump web site comments page one disheartened rider had said that the track was ‘far too muddy’ and that he had to ‘dismount far too often’. This comment was followed up with a stout retort worthy of the TCA ‘if you don’t like the mud stick to road riding!’.

Route Profile:

Male Age 18-34 Results:

(Posted by: Paul)