I thought I would chuck in my contribution, possibly forming a different perspective from that offered by the riders. Firstly though I would like to congratulate all the riders for achieving their goal. A wonderful week of cycling by all of you.
My own memories split into two categories. Firstly my recollections regarding you the cyclists. Clearly there were seriously accomplished athletes amongst you. I got the impression that some may have found the ride more challenging than others, which is only natural with a group who have come together for the first time. There were the Scottish crew (Neil and Jonathon), including l'Ecossais Pierre, who always featured strongly in the sprints - and even finished near the front in them. I got the impression Bruce did the whole ride in top gear.
I have abiding memories of Charlotte's flaming hair and duck impressions; Alex's appetite; Howard's laughter; Erica's wonderful smile; Mike's thirst for beer; Andy going from strength to strength as the ride progressed; Chris's rather worrying fascination with foil kimonos and Sam's legs (I have seen smaller on a full size snooker table). But the way everyone came together as a team was truly magnificent. Many thanks for making the experience so amazing for me.
Other memories outside of the ride seem to centre around what went on in the van. The eternal struggle to think up ways of raising a smile as you rode past without leaving ourselves open to arrest; the continual sniping between the Springbok and the sheep-worrier; the excellent cuisine prepared so beautifully by Barbara and Brian; Hiten's detailed planning; Toftcombs House!!; and so many others.
I hope everyone has regained the use of their bodies and can listen to Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire" without wincing.
Allan
