Cycling a thousand miles begins with the first post

In about 2 weeks, I’m going to start cycling across Britain, from Land’s End to John O’Groats. More information about this route is available by clicking the “route” link on the right side of this website. A couple sentences ago, I used the words “start cycling.” I know I can do that. I have time away from work, the equipment, & the hope. But, I also have serious & sincere respect for cycling 1,000 miles with 4 full panniers. Hills hurt, a lot. I’ll describe my reasons later. For now, I’ll just mention Shackleton’s wonderful, successful, and possibly mythic, marketing slogan, “Men wanted: for hazardous journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful.”. If you like that quote, or even if you don’t, you’ll love the movie.

On to lighter topics, I chose the name of this website from a common comment I heard during some of my training rides. I cycle alone but always meet fun people. A few of them were interested in my cycle-camping, but different folks said the same thing “You’re cycle-touring on that bike?” as they pointed to my folding touring bike. Princess Lea said something very similar to Luke Skywalker & Han Solo, back when Star Wars wasn’t made for pre-schoolers. I’ll write more about my bike later. For now, I’ll just say I smile in response to the comment and say, “Yep.”

I’m writing in this website for a couple reasons. First, this is one of those lifetime events, so I want to record some thoughts, pictures, & hopefully, videos, for myself. It’ll give me something to ponder in retirement. And second, a few people have shown an interest in my trip, regardless of how far I go. I appreciate their interest & encouragement, so the least I can do is share some thoughts & pictures. Stop by later for more.

6 thoughts on “Cycling a thousand miles begins with the first post

  1. Makes you wish Britain didn’t have that long tail, doesn’t it? Being you, you couldn’t just start on the southern edge and call it done, could you? 🙂 Best of luck, and I know this will be a wonderful adventure–hopefully, I’ll get to hear some stories about it later, but for now, I’ll keep an eye on your blog!

  2. Thanks for being the first to comment, and for offering me some luck. I’ll definitely need some, and will defintely share some stories here. You’re right about my wish that Britain didn’t have such a long tail, but I admit that I’m thinking a bit more about the long hills, and how I’m becoming more comfortable with pushing my bike up them.

    When I’m finished, after 1 day or more, we need to talk on Skype and share travel stories. I want to hear about your whirlwind tour of Euorpe!

  3. Hi Steve,
    I hope you have a great time and will look forward to following your ride on your web page. Hopefully the wind direction will always be on your back. Good luck, Mike and Sheila

  4. Hi Mike,

    Thanks for adding a comment. I have a vague recollection of you asking if we can get together when I’m in your part of England. I have too many email accounts and too liitle time online right now to rememer. Anyway, I would love seeing you & Sheila again. I will send you an email message when I’m 2-4 days away. I also want to say that your recommendation to join the CTC has been priceless, not to mention your other recommendations.

  5. I recall the note Kathleen gave you to open when you got to “the wall” during your first marathon, “You go, girl!” I hope you never hit the wall on your bike tour. I’m enjoying your travelogue – may the wind be at your back!

  6. I recall the note Kathleen gave you to open when you hit “the wall” during your first marathon, “You go, girl!” I hope you never hit the wall on your bike tour. I’m enjoying your travelogue – may the wind be at your back!

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