Photos by Aoife

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Photos by Aoife

My Gratitude to all involved

I want to thank the following people:
Sarah for getting me to go
Eammon Linnane
Aidan Flynn
Malcolm Good
All support:
Jack
Jean
Frank the Cop
Peter and Jackie
Angela
Alan

All those that made it possible. I want to thank the heroes too:

Donal
Thomas
Seamas
Martin
Pat
Joseph

I will be on this again, these guys made it very rewarding for me. I have had my medal and t shirt on since and I am enjoying the celebration. I think I want to do it all on a tandem next year, if they let me!

What an experience! Pictures to follow.

Final Day: My favourite Day and on a Tandem with Seamus the euro champ!

82km very hot
Today truly is my favourite day, I got ready and was first to the bikes to get my bike organised and get the pedals off for the tandem. It was confirmed I would finish on a tandem what an honour I thought. I had the fear that this was going to be hard and I would let someone down. I had a few substitutes that would take Seamas all the way if he needed.
The start was shaky but I had a good coach he knew I would be okay and hung in there. The hamstring was a bit dodgy but I knew my work would nearly be done. I just kept anchoring in the feeling that this was about Seamas and us going over that line together. He was like a power engine in the back. The hours just flew by and I knew it would be a great day.
We had scones and tea in Buncrana in the hotel we were staying in that night.
Off again and on our way to Malin. Now the final stretch was supposed to be very difficult with a vicious climb I was nervous. We arrived into Malin to a festival, it was amazing crowds lifted the spirits and there was about 12 seats you wanted to have on 6 bikes, I had one of them. The honour of finishing this challenge on the front of a tandem with a hero on the back. The cameras, the kid, the crowds all helped. I needed some extra help on my hamstrings, Angela gave a helping hand. From here on I thought this will be hard. 16km to the end, I will do it on my hands if I have to.
We headed off one of the last in the group. We were cruising, where were these hills they were talking about, there they where. I described as much as I could to Seamas and let him know about what was coming. He was a power horse he was just so strong it was great. We had 2 big hills to the end. The buzz would get us there it was going to be great. Lock in the feeling of how it will feel to get to the end. The last climb was hard real hard I had a great support over the day particularly Sean and Shane who were great they got this they knew what it was about, thanks guys. The last hill come on we can make it and we did it was amazing, one of the best places to be on a day like this is were I was. It emotional and rewarding. They had arranged for a burger van to serve us and champagne and treats were given out. Martin Gordon and Michael Lawless were the first tandem across the line and I was delighted for Martin, he really enjoyed it.
That night we hammered into the pints. I got christened BamBam the guide dog as I was bumping into things while leading the guys around.
The mullet made it to Malin and he was delighted.
We went for it on the booze and it was well earned!

Sligo to Letterkenny What a send off

Today is my favourite Day!
132km Weather was beautiful. Ipod power was my secret from now on. I was cruising now and I knew I could make it. The climb from Bundoran to Ballyshannon was long and heavy. It was a bit more of a group know that that injuries had kicked in. Aidan and Tom wanted to see what my free wheeling was like, and we had a few competitions to see how I would get on.The last climb to lunch was long but worth it. After that Conor and myself went completely made mad on the second half of the day. Letterkenny we knew had a bit drop into it, big drops mean big climbs. The last drop to Letterkenny was a serious drop I knew 90km was possible but only got up to 67km the roundabout arrived at high speed.
That evening had another jacuzzi that was well needed and made the difference. Martin Gordon was doing Jesus Christ impressions in the jacuzzi. We got the steam room up to temperature as well. Martin is such an inspiration to us all. I met this guy on the first night and he was a lovely guy, but I saw him come along on this week and come and show his true colours. He only lost his sight 5 years ago and knows that science will let him see again. Martin's parents are an inspiration as well so positive, Jake his Dog was there to cheer him on too. I knew from this point on he was going to be a major part of this trip and many more like it. I don't think I left his side from this point on, he just lifted my spirits and was such a good guy. I got one of the nicest complements from him when he said I was a great set of eyes to have around.
We had a few pints that night with the end close it was nearly time to celebrate. After 3 pints I had enough courage to tell Seamas I was ready to Tandem with him, he told me there were lots of people willing. I knew tomorrow would be special and was hoping I would get the honour.

The Art of The Strategy

Today is my favourite day! Galway to Sligo 140km and rainy start. New sponsors for me.
A great nights sleep and I wasn't suffering I was back. Breakfast was fab, this hotel is just brilliant. I have switched to the gear that I normally train in and was fully colour co-ordinated. I decided to take the ipod with me to see what it was like. The weather was a bit murky. The run into Tuam I thought was okay bit of a steady climb but I was feeling good. I came across a few that were struggling and told them to get in behind me. They did and I got them to the first stop. I felt great. From then I got into a hardcore team lead by Sarah and Aoife, with Conor Dave and Brian. We started a bit all over the place and my music led me ahead. We re grouped after lunch and got a serious pro system going, I was loving it. 2km at the front and a rotating pack. The miles flew in and it was great. For about 40km I was in a group of 7 going for it. After that I hung with Conor who was hurting a bit, I knew he wanted to finish and didn't want to leave him. The tides turned then and for the last 10km Conor was a god send. We waited just outside the hotel to let Martin Gordon lead the pack in. It was a great buzz for him.
Tonight I was sharing with Seamas, an ex Irish Cycling Team pro who was with the tandem team in 2003. He lost his sight 13 years ago in a car accident. Sharing a room was a new experience for me, this guy was so independent. When a blind guys asks you to put on Coronation Street it is a bit of a shock but he completely knew what was going on. I personally didn't. The only question he asked me was if a set of socks was white or not but I think he was just showing off (just joking Seamas, I am sure he will read this with his software) Seamas made me realise how normal life was possible, the magic phone and the talking watch, which told me the time all night!!! He forgot to turn it off.
Again I was realising what this week was all about, it was all about the emotional attachment not the cycling. That night at dinner I was beside Malcolm who told me on the last day I would be on a tandem with Seamas, I was an easy target, I was ready my only fear was I would let someone down. But sure would that ever happen....not with one of these guys on the back.
A goodish nights sleep.

Kilkee to Galway...Will it ever end is this yours or is it just anybody's?

Today is my favourite Day?
Distance 138km beautiful weather. Okay waking up with a dodgy head is not the way to start the long cycle. Luckily Conor hooked me up with a power shake that I thought would sort me out. It did gave me loads but the stomach cramp and flatulence was not worth it. Knowing the roads I thought would be a benefit, in fact once we got going and down towards Doonbeg I realised we had quick a massive ride to Ballyvaughn. We kept on trucking and the miles came in. When we got to Lahinch I thought great. Unfornately I found out I had selected a longer route. We had a long climb up to the cliffs of Moher. I let George who was tandeming with Thomas visit the Cliffs as I sat with Thomas and soaked up the rays. I knew Ballyvaughn was still a good stretch and that was the lunch stop. I stayed with George and Thomas until they could truck on (the weight of the tandem carries them.) I ended up the last in the pack but I just remembered what it was about. The corkscrew dropped was talked up and after the first turn I thought this is what I need, after I nearly dropped off the edge I realised what they were talking about. It was fast and unenjoyable too much breaking after all the climbing. Lunch was close, and jaysus it was good, best sandwiches but only 1 and lovely brownies. I don't even know the name of it I think it was an art centre. The rumours were again all over the place 37 miles or 37 kms no one knew. It ended up being about 44km to Galway and it felt very long. I knew if I made it to the main road I was nearly there, the joys of driving it a few weeks previously. I got to the main road and 17km to Galway I pulled in to get some water (bottled of course) and had a quick refuel on the road. It looked downhill from here and the hot tub on the roof of the hotel called me. I rolled into town into Eyre Square. The Meridan Hotel was lovely. I was delirious on check in and it took me about 30 mins to find my room. I hit the roof for the hot tub and it was fantastic. Dinner was a surprise with a few more choices than usual. Galway is a party town but not for me. I went to the centra got some safe water and hit the hay. George was fairly close behind me. We watched a bit of American Pie 2 until the lesbo bit and the lights went off. Word is I was moaning minutes later.
A great nights sleep was due.

Day 2: Kilarney to Kilkee

Today is my favourite Day!
Described as forgiving, 134km Weather beautiful and included a ferry ride.
A long night but bounced back that morning with porridge demanded that is the fuel of choice, I learnt you sometimes have to ask for it. Jackie Healy Rae was there to send us on the way and a Garda escort to get us out of the town. I have to admit after yesterdays climbs my left knee was in trouble. The first 20minutes were a struggle I honestly thought I was going to be in a van in minutes. All I was thinking was shite, if I get in a van how can I get home. Then I thought of all the things Donal spoke about the previous night and how everyday is a challenge in my mind for him but how adapted and strong he was about it, it gave me the lift I needed. Just thinking about the guys on the tandems was all I needed for the boost. Lunch was about 25km from the Tarbet ferry. Post lunch although not a tough ride I was feeling it again. The spirit of the group found me in the form of Mary O'Connor who held herself back and rode all along with me telling me of her adventure climbs and other cycles. She knew what she was doing and before we knew it we arrived in Tarbert. Down for the 3pm ferry. Just the rest I needed. I laydown on the middle of the ferry and it was great to let the muscles rest. I dropped off and woke up to others all around me freezing. I knew from the map that it wasn't that far. I got going right after the ferry and got cruising back to the level I loved, a solid 30km/hour. It was as Malcolm had described completely undulating. I can handle this I thought. 5km from the end I was feeling the burn but the adrenaline would carry me home to the Ocean Cove Hotel in Kilkee. Straight to the room for a long bath. Exhausted but I knew now I could make it and that rolling in in the first group wasn't important.
Kilkee was a heavy night, at this stage no odds were being given on the menus. Veggie soup, chicken/turkey or beef or salmon. Still I would have savaged road kill after those long rides.Tonight I got to meet Thomas, visually impaired musician and bright guy from Castlebar.
The back was broken, or so I thought and hockey ed into the pints. Thomas got his singing voice out and his fiddle and the party got going. It was late. But sure he would be my inspiration for tomorrow. At least I knew the roads, was that a good thing or a bad thing? Only another few hours sleep would let me find out.

Day 1: The hardest thing I have ever done...honestly

Today is my favourite Day
Day 1: Pitched as having some good climbs. 121km 50km/hr winds +
We arrived at Mizen Head to a howling wind but the mood of the group was good. Having taken it handy the previous night most were ready for the first day on the road. The transfer took about an hour and the late start effected a few. The 7am start ended up got us on the bikes for about 10:30. The crowd headed off with much enthusiasm. I got hung up in the first group for about 30 mins and then realised it wasn't the pace for me. I dropped back and found Mick O'B, Dublin Fireman who had a steady pace going more along my own. We cruised through the green lined roads and the miles got clocked. The lunch stop wasn't far only 65km probably a decent distance to do any day. Lunch was well welcomed as the wind and cold rain got to most. A sandwich and soup was gourmet. I found I really wasn't taking on enough fuel and was waiting till I was starving not a great strategy. Post lunch the group all back together we left Bantry and were on our way to Killinary. I heard rumours of the climb and saw signs for the tunnels. I don't climb well, it just isn't my thing I am carrying a few kilos then these skinny cyclists. I had the pleasure of a long climb to the tunnels with Eamonn Linnane, Tour Director, a bear of a man who let me know that he hated cycling 3 minutes after meeting me. Our conversation turned to his name and we tried to work out our blood line. Eamonn kept telling me the top was near by, the winds blew and at one stage I had 5.3 km/hr on the clock when climbing. I got to the top eventually, hurting, it was the first of many climbs and mental challenges to come....
The down hill was long but the road quality poor, I kept on trucking thinking the end was nigh. I had Moll's Hill to get up yet. After Kenmare a quick Isostar gel pack I was given information from 27km to 37km. The first lesson of the trip never listen to the shortest distance. I thought the back was broken unfortunately the big 8km climb to Molls Gap hadn't been done. This is hell on a still day but when a 90kg man gets blown over the road you have to worry. At one stage I worried about going over the edge. The road was ever winding and never ending. Got to the top looking forward to the drop. The wind stopped any sort of speed being reached. A slight mental breakdown by the Killinary lake, which included a sob, a mars bar and a lovely shady tree. I honestly was exhausted and looking to set up camp. First sight of the pony and traps was a sure sign I could roll from there in. I would have checked into any hotel I saw, the sponsor hotel was only for a few special people. My hotel was further up. I have never been so happy to finish something. It was honestly the hardest day, not to mention longest distance and worst weather I have ever cycled in. Was it worth it? Of course. That night I sat opposite Donal one of the visually impaired guys, blind since birth who humbled me and made me realise what this event was all about. I was empowered a ready for the next day. A few pints, a late night and a restless night but how cares!

Day 1: The hardest thing I have ever done...honestly

These are the days that I.....

it is suppose to be love. Based on Lance Armstrong's book, he loves the days it is raining, snowing and windy because no one else is out on the bike. After Charlie McGrath's christening I hadn't got a cycle planned but ended up on the bike on Sunday morning. No hangover but full of BBQed meat from the garden party. Wasn't really feeling the love from the start. It was definately a windy day and it is always a headwind! There were five of us out and we started a local loop bring us down to ballsbridge up to blackrock, salthill basically following the dart out to killiney. We got separated in killiney but my crew put a plan together and got our 75km done. It rained and blew wind at us, average speeds were down and I was glad to finish. So are these the days that I love or hate, well I guess you have to love them when they are over. The days are ticking and that was the reason I was on the saddle this week. Oh yeah sponsors included Lucozade sports drinks, Dublin County Council Water, Organix fruit bars and Vodafone for communications. ( That last bit is for Micky Martin he loves the plugs!)

A weekend to be proud of

Well an unexpected 50km on Friday evening and a solid 80km on Sunday morning made it a weekend to be proud of. Friday was a nice speedy session in the Phoenix Park. Sunday was a morning session heading south on the N11 a 80km session that took just less than 4 hours. The sun was out and it was a good test of stamina and of heat endurance. The return journey saw the temp soar but luckily layer technology saved the day. This session was sponsored by Organix Carrot Cake bars and Magnum Ice Creams!

Makes it all worth it

Fair enough I have had it easy for the last 2 weeks, 10 days in Spain with too much wedding cake! It is so easy to loose weeks and weeks of training in just a few days. I looked after myself in Spain, ate well and health, until the wedding when it all went pear shaped.

Anyway back on the bike this morning. Departure at 6:40 towards the park. I could sense the rain on the way but knew I could beat it. No cars no cyclist no one in the park except me and a few deers.

Beat the rain back and got the motivation to get back in the saddle. Time is ticking.

Sunday Morning Hill Climbs

Saturday was the day for the cycling, beautiful sunny weather. I was at the match. Sunday morning came I thought we would get the same weather it was a bit chillier but I donned the summer cycling pants and met up with the crew.

I was fearful of the hills after the last experience but a good bowl of porridge and decent nights sleep and a positive attitude I nailed the hills and enjoyed it all. Having the crowd does help. Everyone made it and it was a great buzz. A few more days like that would be great.

Proof for the sponsors in photo form. In enniskerry:

Clouds but no wind....indoor training instead

and I still didn't get out on the bike. But a serious strenght session in the gym made up for that. the light in the morning makes a big difference but it is still difficult to jump up at 6:30 I have to constantly remind myself how good it feels after the gym.
Core feels strong, I am looking forward to getting the wheels on the road. Bike is in need of a service too!

20 March 2007

Back at my own gym and working out strong. The weather has turned again although the winter leggings were put away I think I will have to drag them out again. A few outdoor cycles this week are in order. I need to build up my saddle stamina!

Week of 12 March

Even though I was on a training course at the IMI the kind people there let me use the facilities. This keep the momentum going. The gym was limited in what it had but I had a good solid hour work out every day.
This may have all been destroyed by Saturdays behaviour. A surfless weekend that led to one place for the match.

6:30 Carlise Gym 6 March 2007

Forward momentum is the secret to life! I got up hit the gym. a good power warm up on the bike and a solid workout on the legs. I followed this with an intense rowing session for 4km over 18mins working all the arms shoulders. A fantastic stretch using some yoga breathing and that set me up for a great days work. Super fitness here we come!

Motivational Seminar Boost

Did a great seminar for the last few days and am committed and mentally prepared. Let the hard training begin! The wind and rain isn't helping out door cycling at the moment.

Training

Now I guess the real training begins. I have had a few rides on the bike but really need to amp it up. I will set out some goals. I really want to be at my peak fitness come May.

The Money Request, the first of many?

I hope all is fantastic. I know it has been a long time since I have seen many of you for that apologies. As some of you are aware I am a budding (if not a little meatier) Lance Armstrong. After a birthday present of a bike last year started doing a bit of cycling and in the mix got tricked by Sarah Good to cycle the length of the country later this year.

The Challenge:
As part of my charity/challenges for 2007 I am taking part in the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind HSE Mizen Head to Malin Head Tour 2007. 70 cyclists and support crew are travelling the 680 kilometres in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. With a number of blind guys cycling too. This is an annual event to raise €70k for the Guide Dogs. All funds raised go directly to the charity.

The Charity:
A guide dogs working life is about 8 years. Trained dogs begin working at 2 years of age and retire at 10 years old. It costs approximately €35k to keep a Guide Dog from pup to retirement. That covers all costs from vet fees, dog food , training, etc. The charity will have costs of about €3million this year, 80% which is raised through funding.

The Cycle:
On the 26 May 2007 we will set off from Mizen Head and cycle to Killarney (118km), Day 2 Killarney to Kilkee (101km), Day 3 Kilkee to Galway (125km), Day 4 Galway to Sligo (139km), Day 5 Sligo to Letterkenny (110km), Day 6 Letterkenny to Malin head (66km). Home on Saturday 2nd.

My Request:
I am looking for sponsors both corporate and private, any amount will do big or large! As a requirement I need to raise €1350, I am hoping to get double this. I already have about €350 in place. So please if you could pledge an amount to me I will make arrangements to collect it, either by electronic transfer, post or personally.
For corporate sponsors you can sponsor me directly or get involved with the charity.

My training and updates:
I will be putting together a training blog and site to show who has helped me with the fund raising. I will have some photographic proof of the event too.

So please if you could pledge an amount to me an amount to this charity so I can do the cycle knowing I am doing some good and not just getting saddle sores!