19 weeks and 'the bonk'!

Hello folks!

Thought I'd post a photo of cycling in the sunshine, since we haven't had much of that over the last 4 weeks - during which time I've been slowly but surely progressing with my training and so far, so good!

Now, did anybody spot the (not so deliberate) mistake in my last blog post? 4 weeks ago was actually 23 weeks to the big day, not 22. I've just realised I've got a bonus week to train - woohoo!

One thing that came out of a conversation with my cycling buddies from Jordan last week, is that people want stats - how far are you cycling? how much time are you spending in the saddle? etc, etc... Well, I will start logging the miles and times in the blog from now on - 42km (a marathon) last week and another 15 kms/9.3 miles this morning - and you can comment on how far I've still got to go!!!
Everyone I've talked to about this challenge so far has been incredibly supportive, with hints and tips to make sure I survive on the day. If you're on facebook you can show support by simply replying to my invite to the event on 4th August - don't worry, I'm not expecting everyone to actually be there (although it would be ace if you could make it) but feel free to click on 'join' on the event just to let me know you're behind me in spirit.

I've also been reading up on some training articles to find tips for my 'century' and was intrigued to come across the phenomenon known as 'the bonk'. Surprisingly, 'the bonk' is something to be avoided (in cycling anyways). Best make sure I've got enough snacks to munch on the day...

So, training has started well, my motivation is still strong, and I've made a start on my fundraising too - many thanks to everyone who has donated so far! If you want to know what your money is going towards, click here: Mind.
If you're thinking of sponsoring me but haven't done it yet, why not do it here now: Cathy's Charity Cycle Challenge?

Having not really done any exercise since school, I have found it pretty amusing to see the effect cycling has on the colour of my face - after just 30 minutes I'm as red as Cameo's cod piece in the Word Up video! I haven't got a photo of that to share with you, but maybe if I reach £100 of my fundraising target by 21st April (date of the 2013 London Marathon) I will take a pic for you to have a laugh at in my next post ;-)

Keep warm and carry on!