Sunday 30 June 2013

Castles Relay - Dinas M to Foel

Got signed up to the following leg from last year and instead of finishing I was starting in Dinas M and on the route to Foel. The run followed the main road and at times it was a bit hairy with the stream of vehicles passing close. Top field of runners always good to stretch my ability. Lost touch with the leaders early on but held on top 10 position with a fast finish. Superb crowd at the finish saw me come in 8th out if 80. 

Ras yr Hafod 2013

With a long distance cycle trip around the corner I was always in doubt if I should make the trip to the Hafod but an early trip from work found me cycling the 20 miles to the start line. A superb setting of Rivers, tree's and single track it's a top race. A limited field of 16 athletes was a disappointment but still contained enough talent to make it a tough race.

I pushed hard after the first mile and made it a task of thrashing out the first lap and settle into a rhythm for the 2nd. No Sign of any runners I enjoyed the second lap and finished strong. Jumping on the bike I headed for home before the light stopped play. Not a bad nights work.

41min - 10k.

Sarn Helen Castles Relay on the weekend.

Tuesday 11 June 2013

Tour series 4th Cat

After finally given in to the new bike, fitting issues!! I polished the Scott and set about my plans for the night. Another wild night expected a late change of course proved a great move with less straights and more twists. A course which would suit my skinny sticks and cornering skills. Set off ready to finish in one piece this year, but after 10meters I was in the barrier. My training partner missed a pedal and ploughed us all into the wall. Bent handle bars and leavers I was happy to call it a day but remembered the bonus of a lap out if you are held up due to an accident or technical. On lap 2 I slotted myself into the 2nd group and went about pursuing the leaders. Put a few good shifts on the front and somehow managed to avoid some nasty crashes. With 5min to go I was in the lead pack and feeling strong. Last lap I attacked and went for glory, last corner with a lead I got held up by some back markers. Having to brake and manoeuvre I lost my momentum and got picked to the line to finish 2nd. Thrilled to have been competitive but really should have grabbed the win. 

Sunday was the end to the festival weekend with a 105m bike ride with the boys. Awesome day with 9700 ft of climbing it was testing but very enjoyable. Cracking weekend.