I have done few charity bike rides including the London to Brighton and had been out on the odd weekend for some longer rides. I am by no means a super fit, sleek, svelte biking fanatic but I do enjoy a good bike ride and decided that I needed to join a club for fitness, motivation and above all enjoyment.
The temptation to stay in bed coupled with the nerves of the unknown nearly got the better of me, however I managed to drag myself from my slumber and get myself to the meeting point.
Even getting out of the car I was so nervous and really did not know what to expect. So many questions.
Am I going to keep up? I don’t want to be dragging everyone back.
Am I going to be fit enough to last the distance?
Am I going to make a complete arse of myself?
Are they going to look at me in my T-Shirt and normal shorts like an alien who has no right to be gracing their presence let alone attempting to ride along side them?
Its nerve wracking!
I needn’t have been worried, the guys were all so welcoming, and yes I am definitely the odd one out as my legs were far hairy than most of the men’s and yes I was the slowest one and spent all the ride at the back but at no point was I made to feel like a liability or hindrance. Every one was so supportive and encouraging; they all took the time to talk to me offering me advice and tips. We stopped for coffee and cake, which gave me a much needed breather and chance to chat the guys some more.
I would thoroughly recommend this group to anyone who is a fairly keen cyclist who wants to improve, get fitter, see some beautiful countryside and meet some friendly new like mind cyclists.
The ride was approx. 25 miles and an average speed of about 12miles an hour
Will I be going back again?
Most definitely.
Sonya.