Sunday 50

[Dominic]

You had a great day for it Sean. Always nice to take new roads

[Alex P]

Sean

What sort of average speed was the group doing?

[Sylv]

I decided to do the clubrun course on my own today as had not ridden Saturday, and this September must rank as the lowest mileage I've done in several years - even though I have a 12 hour race scheduled for next weekend.

It ended up being the worst I've ever felt on a bike.

Started with a slight headache which wasn't enough to deter me from riding. By the time I reached Reigate my head was pounding like it hadn't been in a long time. But, I've had my share of headaches (literally) so I know how to deal with them and carried on.

The wind must have dropped since this week's strong Northerly wind as whichever direction I was heading it felt like I had a slight tailwind. Came across Ian's group on their way back from a ride (had a late start).
The legs were good but I was taking it fairly easy (it's amazing how all those small hills that feel horrible at training group pace turn to simple and manageable bumps when riding a couple miles slower), as haven't done a hard ride in over a month. Still I reached Charlwood with 20mph average, and a growing stomach ache.

I decided to go back via Box Hill, the head was bad but bearable. Had a gel even though I wasn't feeling like it, and headed off. The stomach got worse and I was feeling sick more and more. But I'd only had breakfast, and that was a couple hours before, so there didn't seem to be anything to get rid of.

It only got worse and by the time I'd reached 75km I was counting down every km to home (as I know it's exactly 100km). Headache and sickness combined felt like riding through your worst hangover. I wasn't bonking though strangely as the legs kept going (although I didn't exceed 10mph up Box Hill). I'd never experienced anything like this and wish I never again. I went slower and slower towards the end and thought I was going to end up in a hedge like marco.

Hadn't eaten anything dodgy or drunk alcohool, and don't think I'm coming down with anything. I slept for over 3 hours afterwards though, and am only starting to eat anything since 10am this morning. Feel like a pensioner. Urgh.

[-Adam-]

Sounds like a tough ride Sylv, you ok now?

Sean, sounds like you saw some of the ''finer'' parts of North Kent

[Snoop Doug]

Crikey Sylv - not good, hope you are feeling better. Still - at least you've had the partial experience of a premier league footballer. I hear Wayne Rooney feels like a pensioner from time to time too

[Sylv]

Better now thanks. Hope you've also recovered from your hill climb Snoop!

[Sylv]

No, the only thing I can think of is that it could have been triggered by the headache, even though, as a long time headache sufferer mine have never been the type that are accompanied by sickness (like some migraines are).