A race rich in experiences and kindness

The results will show a DNF but that’s not how it feels to me. From the crazy roller-coaster of pre-race week with the almost too late arrival of luggage and bike, the joys of riding the trail, the hard physical effort of pushing uphill, the sheer beauty of the Yukon forests and hills, the bite…

Partial success – my suitcases have arrived!

These just arrived at the hotel, thank God. At least I can change clothes now! The bike might possibly arrive tonight, but probably not. The wait continues but I shall get ready as if I’m going to be racing on the bike 😁😁

The trail looks good – if only I had a bike to ride

48 hours after I arrived in Whitehorse I am still without my bike and kit. I was told it would be on this evening’s flights from Vancouver but nothing. And no contact from Air North or Air Canada. I could just manage to make the start line if it all arrives in the next 24…

And I made it to Whitehorse – but my luggage didn’t!

Arrived in reasonable shape after 24 hours of travelling. However in spite of all the promises and reassurances from Air Canada none of my luggage is here. I’m praying it arrives today! If it has gone back to Heathrow then my race is probably over before it starts. But I’m relying on Romans 8:28 –…

The countdown has begun

I’m excited and so nervous all at once. Will the bike work out – the frame is new and I’ve not actually ridden it yet? Will my body hold out through so many tough miles? Will asthma stop me again? Will I be able to keep my hands and feet warm? Will all that stuff…

Let me out!

I’ve not been able to leave the house to train this week so it’s been turbo and treadmill. I’m thankful I have those facilities – but I just want to be outside!

One last attempt

I’ve been training to make one last attempt at my favourite race in February 2023. I so want to cross that finish line in Dawson! Will it happen? God alone knows ❤️ but here’s some pictures of my training …

Defeated by the snow ….

I’m disappointed but it was a hard slog. Only if you’ve tried to ride a bike through lumpy, uneven, unforgiving snow on a narrow trail and in in flat light will you understand what it’s like. Pushing or riding the bike bounces like a bucking broncho so you have to manhandle it back to its…

Ready to go and so nervous

This is the stage I hate. Thinking of all the things I should have put in my drop bag and didn’t – why am I carrying that heavy brake tool and all that extra food? Fretting about sweating too much on the climbs and worrying about falling off at the start. But I commit this…