The day is as I started the ride, cloudy and showers but I am looking forward to seeing family and friends at Lands End.

Watching the mileage into the day, I wasn't going to make the 1,200+ miles due to the very poor weather. The very poor weather I had on some days I needed to make the route a lot more direct, the last 3 days with a left injured knee also didn't help.

Coming over the hill around the corner heading into Lands End, I saw a big crowd wondering what was going on. As I approached the Finish Line they where there to greet me which was fantastic and a great feeling. People shaking my hand and putting donations into my hat, Thank to all at Lands End today.

A lady with a young boy recovering / suffering from cancer was there, I didn't get time to talk but wish her the very best and health to her boy. The boy handed me some money with a smile.

This is what the ride is all about: to help and safe a life from cancer, to help all like the young boy I met. The ride was also in memory of my mum, Bob, Sandra and for Jen, Karen, Lynne and Bridget...

People have asked:
"was you amazed in completing the route"
When I finished I was glad to see family and friends, but didn't think I did much. I think this may be due to not clocking 1,200+ miles.

"what did you do first"
Once I got my stamp and the photo's taken at Lands Ends sign post I got the biggest Cappuccino as I hadn't had one in the last six months.

"What was the hardest part"
The Pennines and cycling in constant rain

"what was the best time"
With the poor weather, at the time I didn't feel I enjoyed any of the days, but thinking about it now,
1) the start on day one with friends and not knowing what was ahead of me was great.
2) Cycling through Glenn Coe was tough but the views were fantastic and highly recommend a visit.
3) Day 9 clocking my fastest ever mile around 2 minutes.
4) Coming into Witham with family and friends greeting me. This was a great boost
5) Visiting the nursing home where mum worked
6) Day 12 - Kevan a friend (my trainers husband) joined me for the day, The weather was very wet but I had a few laughs about it. I had a good time.
7) Coming into Lands End and seeing family, friends and the little boy.

"What was the worst time" ...
1) Day one - cycling near cliff edges with no barriers in the rain and strong side winds
2) Cycling around Yorkshire, the rain so very heavy and car drives didn't seem to have much respect for cyclist.
3) Across The Pennines with 18+ mph winds
4) Not making 1,200+ miles

"would you do this again"
1) At first I would have said NO WAY, but maybe with better weather.

Anyone doing this and it rains a lot, don't give up, I've read about various people giving up and each one has regretted it. About 3 times I nearly pulled out, I am so glad I didn't...

To all who have done this ride, I personally congratulate you and anyone thinking of doing it, go for it. But remember to train and choose your route very carefully, recommend contour maps. Overall your priority should be to enjoy it..

D.Mahoney.
RideForLife - Riding to save a life

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