Epic cycle ride undertaken by unfit, overweight, not middled aged lady

I visited Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos in 2002. One of the things that really struck me about the countries was the indefatigable people, the welcome extended to visitors and the simple joy taken in small pleasures. But, having visited the Museum of the American War in Ho Chi Minh City, seen the 'Danger UXB' signs in Laos and read the good news headline in a paper in Cambodia: ' Deaths from UXBs down to 3 this month. Only 40 maimed.' I was acutely aware of the toll still being taken on the population.

Over the years I have pondered the munitions still there and this year I have finally decided to get off my bottom and do something. So I have, somewhat impetuously and with little regard for my physical fitness, cycling ability or dodgy left knee decided to join the MAG cycle ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Ankor Wat. I will be doing this the first week or so in Feb 2011 and it does involve a couple of days of over 100km in 30 degree heat. Having signed up I have been told that neither a rickshaw nor an electric bikes are options and that doing the distance on my own pedals is expected.

Donation link is further down on the right - I have paid for my own flights and contributed enough to cover living expenses so all money raised from sponsorship will go to MAG.

This is my blog of my progress to get on the road and when I am there - assuming I will be capable of rational thought after a day of unaccustomed exercise.

Monday 30 August 2010

Here there be dragons...

Place at Rye House - with dragon...
Got a little over confident on yesterdays ride - decided  to    push for Rye House (about another mile on previous distances) and had to have a few stops on the way back to breathe and rest the legs. Debated about ringing hubby to pick me up as wasn't sure I would make it back but eventually got back. Collapsed into the bath  and lay around for most of the evening.


The ride did mark a milestone - having been passed by a number of fit young (and not so young) blokes on their bikes decided to have a go on the overtaking thing myself. Goal was achieved when I sailed past a chap on his sit up and beg.... victory was sweet even allowing for the fact that he was a few years, well thirtyish, older than myself.

Also had a gear revelation: When you are changing gear you need to keep peddling otherwise strange things happen...

Family taking an afternoon saunter
Trusty steed was in good form after Paulie had provided a little TLC (oil and air) on Sunday but I think that maybe a full service from the bike shop may be in order as one of the brakes isn't working plus my front reflector seems have developed a permanent case of brewers droop . Paulie asked what I did when I worked out that I had a non functional brake and didn't seem too impressed with the answer 'only used one brake to stop the bike'. As I pointed out - me driver you mechanic :-)
Posted by Vicky/Victoria/Vic/V/'Toria at 23:21

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