Setting off from the Walton Centre to the end of the first day of cycling, here’s how Rob Fletcher and his team are getting on so far…
Day One
The team pulled into the Walton Centre to be greeted by a whole class of children from the school opposite the Centre. They had come to see the riders off on their journey, and had hand painted banners wishing them luck.
After packing and repacking the van several times, Rob and his team were ready for their adventure and they set off on the first leg of the tour – Premier Inn, Folkestone.
Day Two
The team departed the hotel at 7am, feeling refreshed and ready to go. After nearly missing the train due to some missed signs, they were finally on their way to France. 35 minutes later they had arrived in France and excitement was building as the tyre pressure checks and energy bar stashing took place.
The first thing that struck the riders was the condition of the roads. No potholes and no cracks made for a very smooth ride.
Before lunch, they took on hill after hill (a total climb of 4000ft) and a lunchtime stop was very welcomed by this point.
By the time they actually stopped for lunch (overtaking the bus as they were enjoying the ride so much!), they stopped for some food and rehydrated themselves. They passed on through St Quentin where war memorials to British, South African and French troops adorned the scenery.
With only 8km of the day’s ride to go , one of the team encountered a rear puncture but the team made light work of it and they were soon back on their way . A couple of minor tumbles later and they had arrived at the hotel.
A quick shower and a spot of food later, the riders reflected on their tough but overall enjoyable first day of cycling.
Just the small matter of 208km tomorrow!
To be continued!
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