I’ve signed up.
On Sunday 9 May 2027, I’ll be taking on the shortest route: 40 miles (65 km) with 2,823 ft (860 m) of climbing.
I’ve ridden it before, although the 2021 edition ran in the opposite direction after the original event was postponed because of COVID. The later date coincided with the potato harvest, so the route was reversed to reduce disruption to local farmers. So this will be my first time doing it in the “proper” direction.
I’m hoping I can stay injury-free in the lead up. I’ve entered twice since I first completed it but both times had to withdraw from the 55-mile route, most recently in 2024.
I’m also hoping to beat my previous official time of 2:16:18 and, having already started training, it should be possible, and maybe a new steed will come my way before then too1. My Strava time from 2021 is a little slower as it includes riding to the start and from the finish line to the event village, so I’m happy to take the official, chip based, time.
I’ll also be racing in a new age category, which seems rude. Last time, I finished 11th out of 54 riders in the men’s 45–49 age group. Whether I can repeat that in the 50–54 category remains to be seen.
I love a challenge, and having this in the calendar, despite being 10 months away, is a good reminder to keep moving, and to keep my 100-day streak alive (I’m currently on day 55).
It feels good to have a goal in place. As I’ve mentioned before I find it helps give me a focus and, without one, it’s much easier to skip a today’s exercise because tomorrow always feels like another chance.
Cycling is a hobby that begets more cycling: “The correct number of bikes for you to own is n+1. N equates to the number of bikes you own, therefore you should always be looking to acquire your next pride and joy.”
What are your thoughts?