Day ride to Soria - Sunday 9th March 2014

So after meeting up with the group and collecting hire bikes, we head out from Maspalomas along the coast for 12k. The weather is warm and a little overcast but soon the sky clears and we have glorious sunshine, plus 24c too. 

We then turn inland, some easy riding to start with on very smooth roads. A quick snack stop and then the real work begins, a 9km climb.  The gradient is steep but consistent and there are numerous switchbacks, I find the right gear and it feels good. It's worth it, the mountain village of Soria has a wonderful restaurant, Casa Fernando, where we stop for lunch. 

Then it's back the way we came, a full on descent but rather any long enough straights to clock a good speed, I settle for 62kph. Then back along the coast to Maspalomas. 69km in total and about 1120m of climb. 

The "tour" starts tomorrow so best I get an early night. 

Heading to warmer climes - Saturday 8th March 2014

So an early start and heading to Gran Canaria for a cycle holiday - actually "Tour de Gran Canaria" as the trip is called.  

Fairfield Horseshoe - Friday 7th March 2014

Take the afternoon off work and head over to Ambleside for a run around the Horseshoe. After the heavy overnight rain, I am amazed at how the sky has cleared.  Cool and breezy but fantastic views and dry, in places, underfoot.

Decide to also take in Red Screes to add a little more distance and climb. A great run out and then beer and tapas at the Hawkshead Brewery. 

Rest day - Thursday 6th March 2014

Had hoped to get out for a quick run at lunch but work gets in the way so it becomes a rest day.

Training - Wednesday 5th March 2014

Billy away so Shaun is leading the session tonight. Up to golf course and then a quick rep in one area. followed by a warm-up rep and the five reps in a different area, these ones are much longer. Then back to the first area for another rep and a half......come back soon Billy ! 

Pilates - Tuesday 4th March 2014

Another good session, hopefully will start to see the benefit of this in my running.

Scar Run - Monday 3rd March 2014

Head out at lunchtime and park at Helsington church. Then a run on the Scar, glorious weather and good to be out. About 6 miles.