Less than 1 week to go

When the idea to Race to the Sun was first muted, the Manchester team were the driving force, they were first into the training, first into the fund raising for Action Medical Research and first into team practice. But as the day loomed closer, it became clear that not enough training had really taken place. Where does the time go!

Manchester’s training may have started late – but better late than never as they say and it has been a steep learning curve for Team Manchester as we have dealt with sore bums and blisters in our efforts to be ready for race day!

In our first bike ride we managed a respectable 30 miles in 2 hours 15 mins – we hastily realised this was challenging for not only our legs….. so stocked up on Bum Butter ready for phase 2 of training.

In phase 2 we set out in the rain for a 15 mile hike, attempted a spot of improvised kayaking in the yard (not entirely successful) and then finished with a 24 mile bike ride – all this taught us the importance of comfortable shoes and a good supply of plasters……and chocolate.

For phase 3 we upped our game and set out on our bikes to the seaside in over 30 degree temperatures for our longest ride yet, at the halfway point we had done 30 miles and were feeling good…. 20 minutes later we were feeling the pain of the long climb out of Southport, but it soon levelled out and despite backache, blistered hands and lots of burnt bits we triumphantly completed 60 miles in 4.5 hours.

So with less than a week to go we are feeling (slightly more) ready and excited for the challenge ahead!!

If you would like to join us in supporting The Manchester Team and Action Medical Research, please click on the link www.action.org.uk/sponsor/Bishopsgate. Alternatively, please send a cheque made payable to Action Medical Research to Tim at Bishopsgate, Interface, Unit A, Technology Drive, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon, SN4 8SY