All funds raised during my ride across Australia went to either the Australian or New Zealand Heart Foundation depending on the donor’s wish. It was a thrill to be named Best Individual Fund-raiser for 2011 by the Queensland Branch of the Australian Heart Foundation. Special thanks to EVERYONE who supported my ride.
"PREPARATION"
This page will have entries made to it at least weekly, (possibly more frequently depending on what is happening)
leading up to the start of my ride.
This page will have entries made to it at least weekly, (possibly more frequently depending on what is happening)
leading up to the start of my ride.
Wednesday 30th March 2011 - tomorrow is it!!!!
Where did the hours go today!!!! Spent some hours packing the Jucy organising what should go where, and finding a pot for my spare bike - all looks good now, and I am sure that after a few days on the road and a bit of reshuffling, a good routine will be established.
A big shop at the local "Warwick" shopping centre - so laden with drining water, food etc to get us through a good part of the trip - or at least to the next major town!! There are several days when we will only be going from roadhouse to road house so no real shops!!
Pat acquired her new Drakes Pride bowls at the Scarborough Bowling Club late afternoon - what beauties they are - a fabulous colour and with a "Rose" on them - that makes me think of 2 places - Te Awamutu in New Zealand - and Portland Oregon!!
President Val Swetman organised a game - so for her first time with new bowls, Pat also played her first game as skip!! It looked like they had a lot of fun, and I have been told not to make any comment about Pat's first bowln here - so I won't ........... except ............ maybe I can be bought ......... for a donation to the Heart Foundation!!!
After the game we were treated to wonderful hospitality at the club and a lovely meal by "Silver Fern Catering" - haha - guess where they are from - Taranaki and Christchurch!!
Following the meal the Club allowed me to whip around with the collection tin for the Heart Foundation. Their generosity matched their friendliness and the result was a fabulous $227-00 raised!!!
A thoroughly enjoyable evening - one I will never forget for the thoroughyly warm and welcoming hospitality. Certainly gave me a huge buzz ............. and the journey begins tomorrow!!!!!!!
Where did the hours go today!!!! Spent some hours packing the Jucy organising what should go where, and finding a pot for my spare bike - all looks good now, and I am sure that after a few days on the road and a bit of reshuffling, a good routine will be established.
A big shop at the local "Warwick" shopping centre - so laden with drining water, food etc to get us through a good part of the trip - or at least to the next major town!! There are several days when we will only be going from roadhouse to road house so no real shops!!
Pat acquired her new Drakes Pride bowls at the Scarborough Bowling Club late afternoon - what beauties they are - a fabulous colour and with a "Rose" on them - that makes me think of 2 places - Te Awamutu in New Zealand - and Portland Oregon!!
President Val Swetman organised a game - so for her first time with new bowls, Pat also played her first game as skip!! It looked like they had a lot of fun, and I have been told not to make any comment about Pat's first bowln here - so I won't ........... except ............ maybe I can be bought ......... for a donation to the Heart Foundation!!!
After the game we were treated to wonderful hospitality at the club and a lovely meal by "Silver Fern Catering" - haha - guess where they are from - Taranaki and Christchurch!!
Following the meal the Club allowed me to whip around with the collection tin for the Heart Foundation. Their generosity matched their friendliness and the result was a fabulous $227-00 raised!!!
A thoroughly enjoyable evening - one I will never forget for the thoroughyly warm and welcoming hospitality. Certainly gave me a huge buzz ............. and the journey begins tomorrow!!!!!!!
Tuesday 29th March 2011 - 2 more sleeps to go!!
A few moments of panic yesterday afternoon as it began to bucket down with rain - 3 hours before planned departure time to the aiport!! The "B" plan had to be instigated - the cardboard boxed bikes on a trailer would have been a disaster!! Clever manoeuvering saw all the gear fitted into John's large vehicle, and despite Judy having to assume something very similar to the "brace position" (while Pat and I had the most comfortable seats) - we all arived safely and dry at the airport!! Hope your back is OK Judy!!!!
Virgin Blue staff efficiently checked the "oversize" baggage in and when told I was riding across Australia as a fund-raiser for the Heart Foundation, they very generously ignored a few excess kgs!!! Nice start to the trip!! And it was a great flight too.
Bike assembled in the early hours at the airport, and some laps of a very quiet airport car-park proved that a combination of good packing and good baggage handling had seen the bikes arrive in perfect condtion.
A couple of hours later and we took position of the Jucy Grande - home for the next 6 weeks!! Despite a call to Scott at Jucy with a "blonde" question (sorry blondes - and Sorry Scott - you must love people like us!!!!!!!) - we are now ready to pack things and get ready to go!!!
Negotiated our way through a maze of roadworks to the northern suburb of Greenwood in Perth (a short distance from the start line at Scarborough) arriving at "Noni's Place". How good is it to have our own "Games Room" to relax, unpack and sprawl out in as we do final packing preparatuion!!!. ("Games Room" sounds great - so much better than "Granny Flat"!!)
Noni had eveyrthing set up amazingly and can't do enough for us!! Wonderful friend and so very very kind and helpful!! We had a very enjoyable meal at the marina at The Hilary's last night - and will now collapse into bed and I am sure sleep very soundly!
A few moments of panic yesterday afternoon as it began to bucket down with rain - 3 hours before planned departure time to the aiport!! The "B" plan had to be instigated - the cardboard boxed bikes on a trailer would have been a disaster!! Clever manoeuvering saw all the gear fitted into John's large vehicle, and despite Judy having to assume something very similar to the "brace position" (while Pat and I had the most comfortable seats) - we all arived safely and dry at the airport!! Hope your back is OK Judy!!!!
Virgin Blue staff efficiently checked the "oversize" baggage in and when told I was riding across Australia as a fund-raiser for the Heart Foundation, they very generously ignored a few excess kgs!!! Nice start to the trip!! And it was a great flight too.
Bike assembled in the early hours at the airport, and some laps of a very quiet airport car-park proved that a combination of good packing and good baggage handling had seen the bikes arrive in perfect condtion.
A couple of hours later and we took position of the Jucy Grande - home for the next 6 weeks!! Despite a call to Scott at Jucy with a "blonde" question (sorry blondes - and Sorry Scott - you must love people like us!!!!!!!) - we are now ready to pack things and get ready to go!!!
Negotiated our way through a maze of roadworks to the northern suburb of Greenwood in Perth (a short distance from the start line at Scarborough) arriving at "Noni's Place". How good is it to have our own "Games Room" to relax, unpack and sprawl out in as we do final packing preparatuion!!!. ("Games Room" sounds great - so much better than "Granny Flat"!!)
Noni had eveyrthing set up amazingly and can't do enough for us!! Wonderful friend and so very very kind and helpful!! We had a very enjoyable meal at the marina at The Hilary's last night - and will now collapse into bed and I am sure sleep very soundly!
Monday 28th March 2011 - 3 sleeps to go!!!
I can't believe how much has happened since last Thursday!! A lot of mind-blowing stuff! in the space of 4 days!!
A "major" thing has been the fabulous decision by Giant to provide me with a new bike!!!!!!! I was blown away, and VERY excited!! Ben Bishop (Tom Wallace Cycles - Lutwyche - Brisbane) spent last Thursday and Friday setting up my new Giant Avail with such precision that it mirrors my previous bike!! This resulted in a very smooth transition across to the new bike and 2 great rides Saturday and Sunday!!!
The "hits" on my website have really taken off!! I didn't have any idea what to expect, but previous "high" daily hits look so low on the graphs compared to the last weeks figures. The awareness of the trip has grown incredibly - quite amazing really!!
Another "high" in the last week as an extremely generous gesture by Drakes Pride. In a very generous move they will have a set of Drakes Pride International Lawn Bowls available at Scraborough Bowls Club in Perth for Pat to use as I slowly ride across the country!! I've worked out she should have the opportunity to bowl at 22 different Clubs!! If it wasn't for Pat "my crew of 1" this ride wouldn't be possible - so thanks a lot to Don Sherman of Drakes Pride for organising this and making it happen!! So while I bike from "Scarborough (WA) to Scarborough (Qld) - Pat will "bowl" her way from Scarborough Bowling Club (WA) to Scarborough Bowls Club (Qld) !!
And they say tthings come in 3's - my phone and internet provider iprimus / primustel - has organised mobile phones for the trip so that Pat and I can keep incontact with each other, and with the world throught the journey!! That is a great safety net to have indeed!! They are also providing the means for me to make updates to my website, which is very cool. Sure there may be a couple of "black-spots" along the way in the great vast outback - but - I'll try and pedal faster through those areas!!!! Many thanks to Andy at iprimus / primustel for getting me up to speed with communications technolgy!!
The weekend has been filled with final "farewells", and receiving many messages of support for a safe journey. Thanks to everyone for that!! There has also been desperate dashes across the road to a neighbour, Peter, to borrow a "pedal spanner" (thanks) - and now the bikes are packed into their boxes ready to fly to WA. - Yes - "bikes" plural - I couldn't leave my original Giant OCR3 at home as it has been looking forward to this trip for a long time. So it is coming along "just in case".
Thanks to James and Di Houghton for all their support both before and during this ride - like James, I am pretty passionate about living in Scarborough (Qld) - and I know when I ride alongside the Houghton Highway and reach the Ted Smout bridge on the 10th May, it will be the most amazing feeling!!
So in a few hours time, our very good friends, and garden waterers in our abscence, John and Judy (oh and Lily of course) Brookman will be collecting us, the bikes and all the bags and taking us to the airport - so close to the start now!!!
I can't believe how much has happened since last Thursday!! A lot of mind-blowing stuff! in the space of 4 days!!
A "major" thing has been the fabulous decision by Giant to provide me with a new bike!!!!!!! I was blown away, and VERY excited!! Ben Bishop (Tom Wallace Cycles - Lutwyche - Brisbane) spent last Thursday and Friday setting up my new Giant Avail with such precision that it mirrors my previous bike!! This resulted in a very smooth transition across to the new bike and 2 great rides Saturday and Sunday!!!
The "hits" on my website have really taken off!! I didn't have any idea what to expect, but previous "high" daily hits look so low on the graphs compared to the last weeks figures. The awareness of the trip has grown incredibly - quite amazing really!!
Another "high" in the last week as an extremely generous gesture by Drakes Pride. In a very generous move they will have a set of Drakes Pride International Lawn Bowls available at Scraborough Bowls Club in Perth for Pat to use as I slowly ride across the country!! I've worked out she should have the opportunity to bowl at 22 different Clubs!! If it wasn't for Pat "my crew of 1" this ride wouldn't be possible - so thanks a lot to Don Sherman of Drakes Pride for organising this and making it happen!! So while I bike from "Scarborough (WA) to Scarborough (Qld) - Pat will "bowl" her way from Scarborough Bowling Club (WA) to Scarborough Bowls Club (Qld) !!
And they say tthings come in 3's - my phone and internet provider iprimus / primustel - has organised mobile phones for the trip so that Pat and I can keep incontact with each other, and with the world throught the journey!! That is a great safety net to have indeed!! They are also providing the means for me to make updates to my website, which is very cool. Sure there may be a couple of "black-spots" along the way in the great vast outback - but - I'll try and pedal faster through those areas!!!! Many thanks to Andy at iprimus / primustel for getting me up to speed with communications technolgy!!
The weekend has been filled with final "farewells", and receiving many messages of support for a safe journey. Thanks to everyone for that!! There has also been desperate dashes across the road to a neighbour, Peter, to borrow a "pedal spanner" (thanks) - and now the bikes are packed into their boxes ready to fly to WA. - Yes - "bikes" plural - I couldn't leave my original Giant OCR3 at home as it has been looking forward to this trip for a long time. So it is coming along "just in case".
Thanks to James and Di Houghton for all their support both before and during this ride - like James, I am pretty passionate about living in Scarborough (Qld) - and I know when I ride alongside the Houghton Highway and reach the Ted Smout bridge on the 10th May, it will be the most amazing feeling!!
So in a few hours time, our very good friends, and garden waterers in our abscence, John and Judy (oh and Lily of course) Brookman will be collecting us, the bikes and all the bags and taking us to the airport - so close to the start now!!!
Thursday 24th March - one week to go!!!
The more planning I do the busier it seems to get and the more things I seem to have to get done before I depart!! Haven't had quite as much time out on the bike this week - several rides between 60 abd 80 kms plus running and swimming, but no really long rides. Not to worry, I think if I am not fit now, I'll never be!!
My bike received some expert care on the weekend, and my "crew" received a lesson on more techincal bike care than just changing a puncture. Thanks a lot Paul!!!! I sure hope we won't have to need the spoke tool and the casette changer tool, but it is quite comforting to know if something like that goes wrong we won't be flying totally blind - and we will have tools to do the job!! The "lesson" was followed by a very enjoyable BBQ with the Delaney family - great steak - good stuff!!
The "room" of "stuff to take" keeps filling - packing day to get it all on the plane is going to be fun!!
I've posted on a couple of cycling boards about the trip, and have received a lot of interesting messages from people that have done something similar, people that want to do something similar, and people that think I am totally mad!! All good stuff though - I love the feedback!!
I've also had great offers from various people who want to ride with me when I am in their area. I will really look forward to that!
The more planning I do the busier it seems to get and the more things I seem to have to get done before I depart!! Haven't had quite as much time out on the bike this week - several rides between 60 abd 80 kms plus running and swimming, but no really long rides. Not to worry, I think if I am not fit now, I'll never be!!
My bike received some expert care on the weekend, and my "crew" received a lesson on more techincal bike care than just changing a puncture. Thanks a lot Paul!!!! I sure hope we won't have to need the spoke tool and the casette changer tool, but it is quite comforting to know if something like that goes wrong we won't be flying totally blind - and we will have tools to do the job!! The "lesson" was followed by a very enjoyable BBQ with the Delaney family - great steak - good stuff!!
The "room" of "stuff to take" keeps filling - packing day to get it all on the plane is going to be fun!!
I've posted on a couple of cycling boards about the trip, and have received a lot of interesting messages from people that have done something similar, people that want to do something similar, and people that think I am totally mad!! All good stuff though - I love the feedback!!
I've also had great offers from various people who want to ride with me when I am in their area. I will really look forward to that!
Thursday 17th March - two weeks to go!!
A good week of training, lots of time on the bike and some good long rides. I'm starting to feel like I have done enough prep and just want to get on with the ride now!!
I've had more "Daily sponsors" say they will come aboard which is great news, some just haven't fronted up with their donation yet to the Heart Foundation, or sent me stuff for their advert, and it is worrying me a bit as time to leave gets closer. Its just that it will be great to have them all in place before I leave - but hey - as long as it is a "full house" by the end of the trip it will be good for the Heart Foundation.
I've set aside a room in the house and started putting "things I need to take" in there. I always seem to go on holiday and think, darn, I left such and such behind! Normal holidays have been where I can buy whatever it is - but this one will be a bit different!! Looking more closely at my route there is a 2 week period and the only shops will be roadhouses - while I am sure they have many things, the variety of fresh food could be pretty limited. With banana's being $11 a kilo here at the moment - I wonder what price there!!!!!!
A good week of training, lots of time on the bike and some good long rides. I'm starting to feel like I have done enough prep and just want to get on with the ride now!!
I've had more "Daily sponsors" say they will come aboard which is great news, some just haven't fronted up with their donation yet to the Heart Foundation, or sent me stuff for their advert, and it is worrying me a bit as time to leave gets closer. Its just that it will be great to have them all in place before I leave - but hey - as long as it is a "full house" by the end of the trip it will be good for the Heart Foundation.
I've set aside a room in the house and started putting "things I need to take" in there. I always seem to go on holiday and think, darn, I left such and such behind! Normal holidays have been where I can buy whatever it is - but this one will be a bit different!! Looking more closely at my route there is a 2 week period and the only shops will be roadhouses - while I am sure they have many things, the variety of fresh food could be pretty limited. With banana's being $11 a kilo here at the moment - I wonder what price there!!!!!!
Thursday 10th March - three weeks to go!!!
These days are passing faster and faster!!
Got my bike back on Saturday morning, and the gentleman that had knocked me off the previous Tuesday had already been in and paid for the repairs, so that was nice. It is running smoothly again, although I have to confess to being a bit nervous, especially going through intersections! But as the week has gone on, confidence has returned!!
Friends, Bruce and Kay, who spend months at a time travelling many varied routes across, around and through Australia called in for afternoon tea and brought with them a lot of helpful hints and a brilliant camping book that shows all the places to camp!! My mind has been put at ease somewhat, as I had 2 stops planned at places that weren't really anything! Now we have found stops that will suit, and others that might give better options along the way depending on how things are going. Thanks a lot B & K!!
I'm writing this from Lily's house (my Day 22 sponsor) as her owners are away in South Australia for a couple of days. Lily thinks I am crazy when I sneak out just before daylight to go for my daily ride!!
As the publicity has spread, so has the offers of help!! So many nice people!! Cyclists to ride with me from Scarborough through Perth to Redcliffe on the first day - that will beat following a map! Offers of accommodation in Perth. Tips in a lovely email from that intrepid cyclist Russell Worthington - he has ridden his bike "everywhere" so the advice couldn't be better!!!
Donations to the Heart Foundation are still coming in which is great - keep it up - and spread the word!!!!! I love seeing those totals grow!! I know there are lots of other appeals on at the moment, and all causes are needy. Last week, I lost a friend who had his first heart attack just before I left New Zealand 12 years ago. Great memories Leo, you were a fabulous harness racing scribe, and provided us with many entertaining moments!!
Still hoping for a few more businesses to come aboard as daily sponsors for a $200 donation to the Heart Foundation. We're getting there tho.
After last week's "incident" - this weeks project is to put together a "First Aid" kit. One of those things I won't want to use - but it is something I must have.
These days are passing faster and faster!!
Got my bike back on Saturday morning, and the gentleman that had knocked me off the previous Tuesday had already been in and paid for the repairs, so that was nice. It is running smoothly again, although I have to confess to being a bit nervous, especially going through intersections! But as the week has gone on, confidence has returned!!
Friends, Bruce and Kay, who spend months at a time travelling many varied routes across, around and through Australia called in for afternoon tea and brought with them a lot of helpful hints and a brilliant camping book that shows all the places to camp!! My mind has been put at ease somewhat, as I had 2 stops planned at places that weren't really anything! Now we have found stops that will suit, and others that might give better options along the way depending on how things are going. Thanks a lot B & K!!
I'm writing this from Lily's house (my Day 22 sponsor) as her owners are away in South Australia for a couple of days. Lily thinks I am crazy when I sneak out just before daylight to go for my daily ride!!
As the publicity has spread, so has the offers of help!! So many nice people!! Cyclists to ride with me from Scarborough through Perth to Redcliffe on the first day - that will beat following a map! Offers of accommodation in Perth. Tips in a lovely email from that intrepid cyclist Russell Worthington - he has ridden his bike "everywhere" so the advice couldn't be better!!!
Donations to the Heart Foundation are still coming in which is great - keep it up - and spread the word!!!!! I love seeing those totals grow!! I know there are lots of other appeals on at the moment, and all causes are needy. Last week, I lost a friend who had his first heart attack just before I left New Zealand 12 years ago. Great memories Leo, you were a fabulous harness racing scribe, and provided us with many entertaining moments!!
Still hoping for a few more businesses to come aboard as daily sponsors for a $200 donation to the Heart Foundation. We're getting there tho.
After last week's "incident" - this weeks project is to put together a "First Aid" kit. One of those things I won't want to use - but it is something I must have.
Thursday 3rd March 2011 - 4 weeks to go!!
What a busy week - filled with several highs - and one low.
I'll start with the bad news - on Tuesday morning I was almost home from a 2 hour ride when a van turned straight across in front of me! Bang - I was against its front window and bonnet, and when it stopped, slumped to the road on top of my bike. Ouch!! Got up and dusted myself off, pretty sore down my right hand arm, rump and knee. Driver was very apologetic and said he was concentrating on looking for the street name he had to turn into and that he didn't even see me!! Was a bit reluctant to get "back on the horse" so walked towards home. Tried to get on the bike, but some most unpleasant noises emanating from the chain and gears!!
So the result is - the bike is in hospital and I am recovering from bruising. Hopefully I get my bike back on Friday so I can keep on with the training.
Right - don't dwell on the bad news - cos there has been so much good news this week!!!
The WONDERFUL news is that Jucy Campervans have provided me with a van for the trip!!! How fabulous is that???? Check out their website to read all about them. They are a great bunch of guys, the vehicle is really funky, and I reckon it will be absolutely ideal!!!!
Also this week many friends have helped me get more publicity for the ride. I feel a bit like a "media tart" - but if it helps raise awareness for the Heart Foundation - and therefore more donations to them
I'll do almost anything!!
So I've been in the Redcliffe Herald, the Redcliffe Leagues Cub Newsletter, and "Keep Shouting" the newsletter produced by my neighbour and local councillor, James Houghton. I'm also, believe it or not on You Tube!!!!
The donations to the Heart Foundation keep growing, and I have many pledges for when I have done the trip!!
I still have a few gaps for businesses to come aboard as Daily Sponsors, I'd really like to get those all settled before I head off - so if you are "thinking" about it - as they say - just do it!!!!!
While my main focus has been and is, to raise money for the Heart Foundation, some companies have generously offered to help towards some of my costs and have provided some amazing goodies. I am very very thankful to them - check them out on the page called "Product Providers".
What a busy week - filled with several highs - and one low.
I'll start with the bad news - on Tuesday morning I was almost home from a 2 hour ride when a van turned straight across in front of me! Bang - I was against its front window and bonnet, and when it stopped, slumped to the road on top of my bike. Ouch!! Got up and dusted myself off, pretty sore down my right hand arm, rump and knee. Driver was very apologetic and said he was concentrating on looking for the street name he had to turn into and that he didn't even see me!! Was a bit reluctant to get "back on the horse" so walked towards home. Tried to get on the bike, but some most unpleasant noises emanating from the chain and gears!!
So the result is - the bike is in hospital and I am recovering from bruising. Hopefully I get my bike back on Friday so I can keep on with the training.
Right - don't dwell on the bad news - cos there has been so much good news this week!!!
The WONDERFUL news is that Jucy Campervans have provided me with a van for the trip!!! How fabulous is that???? Check out their website to read all about them. They are a great bunch of guys, the vehicle is really funky, and I reckon it will be absolutely ideal!!!!
Also this week many friends have helped me get more publicity for the ride. I feel a bit like a "media tart" - but if it helps raise awareness for the Heart Foundation - and therefore more donations to them
I'll do almost anything!!
So I've been in the Redcliffe Herald, the Redcliffe Leagues Cub Newsletter, and "Keep Shouting" the newsletter produced by my neighbour and local councillor, James Houghton. I'm also, believe it or not on You Tube!!!!
The donations to the Heart Foundation keep growing, and I have many pledges for when I have done the trip!!
I still have a few gaps for businesses to come aboard as Daily Sponsors, I'd really like to get those all settled before I head off - so if you are "thinking" about it - as they say - just do it!!!!!
While my main focus has been and is, to raise money for the Heart Foundation, some companies have generously offered to help towards some of my costs and have provided some amazing goodies. I am very very thankful to them - check them out on the page called "Product Providers".
Thursday 24th February 2011 - 5 weeks to go!!
Oh wow, it sure is starting to get closer.
Terrific long ride last Saturday to Bribie Island and back - about 140 kms, and followed that up with an easy 60 kms on Sunday morning. Felt good - but its the sort of thing I will need to do 6 days in a row for 6 weeks!! I'm still finding it hard to know if I am doing enough training, too much training, or not enough training!! Time will tell I guess!
At the gym this week I started some exercises to strengthen - my "core"!! - I thought running, biking and swimming was enough - but apparently not!! I always thought I was somewhat "pear-shaped" now it appears I also have a core!!
The news of the earthquake in Christchurch was dreadful. So much loss of life, and such a beautiful city, that had begun to claw its way back from the quake in September - wrecked beyond belief. The TV pictures of the devastation make you weep.
I've always been immensely proud as a New Zealander that when disaster hits Australia, the kiwi's are the first to run up and offer support. This week we have seen this in reverse - so many Australian SES workers, and a considerable number of police, dashing across the Tasman - ANZAC's rule!!! Other countries as well - did I hear right - as well as human-power from the USA - 100+ portaloo's? Sounds a funny thing - but how necessary with the sewerage infrastructure wrecked!!! My thoughts are with all of New Zealand - Australasia has certainly had more than its fair share of nature's wrath in the past 6 months!!
Despite so many other worthwhile appeals at the moment, I have been thrilled with the growth of donations to the Heart Foundation pages I have established. Their work must go on!!
I'm looking forward to making this report next week - I have some very exciting news which should be "rubber-stamped" by then -so stay tuned!!!!
Oh wow, it sure is starting to get closer.
Terrific long ride last Saturday to Bribie Island and back - about 140 kms, and followed that up with an easy 60 kms on Sunday morning. Felt good - but its the sort of thing I will need to do 6 days in a row for 6 weeks!! I'm still finding it hard to know if I am doing enough training, too much training, or not enough training!! Time will tell I guess!
At the gym this week I started some exercises to strengthen - my "core"!! - I thought running, biking and swimming was enough - but apparently not!! I always thought I was somewhat "pear-shaped" now it appears I also have a core!!
The news of the earthquake in Christchurch was dreadful. So much loss of life, and such a beautiful city, that had begun to claw its way back from the quake in September - wrecked beyond belief. The TV pictures of the devastation make you weep.
I've always been immensely proud as a New Zealander that when disaster hits Australia, the kiwi's are the first to run up and offer support. This week we have seen this in reverse - so many Australian SES workers, and a considerable number of police, dashing across the Tasman - ANZAC's rule!!! Other countries as well - did I hear right - as well as human-power from the USA - 100+ portaloo's? Sounds a funny thing - but how necessary with the sewerage infrastructure wrecked!!! My thoughts are with all of New Zealand - Australasia has certainly had more than its fair share of nature's wrath in the past 6 months!!
Despite so many other worthwhile appeals at the moment, I have been thrilled with the growth of donations to the Heart Foundation pages I have established. Their work must go on!!
I'm looking forward to making this report next week - I have some very exciting news which should be "rubber-stamped" by then -so stay tuned!!!!
Thursday 17th February 2011 - 6 weeks to go!!
These weeks seem to be passing by quicker and quicker!!!
Training wise - not too bad this week. Some longish rides on the weekend with shorter ones on week days. Also some good runs on the treadmill at the gym and around the waterfront on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula. And always the very enjoyable and relaxing swim after a heavy exercise time. I am enjoying the Dolphins Health Precinct immensely!! As part of my "joining package" I had an "assessment" - which was done this week. The verdict is that my cardio is not too bad,and I am doing plenty of hours on the bike - but as for the stretching .......... I didn't score too well!! I get my "sheet" of instructions for these on Monday, so I better be diligent and add this to my schedule!! In my heart, I know it will be good for me - just something I skimp on and don't do!! I am sure after a long day on the bike during my trip it will help ease any aches and pains!!
The donations to the Heart Foundation keep coming, and I am very grateful to those who have donated. It pleases me immensely to see that total growing for the Heart Foundation. More businesses have made contact with me and their support will be firmed up in coming days. Various forms of publicity will happen in the coming weeks - so more people will hear of my endeavours!!
These weeks seem to be passing by quicker and quicker!!!
Training wise - not too bad this week. Some longish rides on the weekend with shorter ones on week days. Also some good runs on the treadmill at the gym and around the waterfront on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula. And always the very enjoyable and relaxing swim after a heavy exercise time. I am enjoying the Dolphins Health Precinct immensely!! As part of my "joining package" I had an "assessment" - which was done this week. The verdict is that my cardio is not too bad,and I am doing plenty of hours on the bike - but as for the stretching .......... I didn't score too well!! I get my "sheet" of instructions for these on Monday, so I better be diligent and add this to my schedule!! In my heart, I know it will be good for me - just something I skimp on and don't do!! I am sure after a long day on the bike during my trip it will help ease any aches and pains!!
The donations to the Heart Foundation keep coming, and I am very grateful to those who have donated. It pleases me immensely to see that total growing for the Heart Foundation. More businesses have made contact with me and their support will be firmed up in coming days. Various forms of publicity will happen in the coming weeks - so more people will hear of my endeavours!!
Thursday 10th February 2011 - 7 weeks to go!!
Spent a fair few hours on the bike this week, and less hours jogging and swimming. This mainly came about as I was looking after a friend's house and pets on beautiful Bribie Island, so wasn't near my gym!! I still fitted in a couple of days work back on the Redcliffe Peninsula, so did that 108 km return trip twice, as well as cycled almost every road on the Island (some several times)!!. All good though - only marred by one puncture - which I am thrilled to report - I actually fixed myself!!! (a first!!) Took me forever - but I got there!!
Its been fascinating watching the progress of several pretty new bikers who have signed up for the 2 day, 200 km Ride for Cancer to be held here in August. Their enthusiasm is great - and to see them following the same path I did and moving from mountain bikes to roadies makes me smile!!I hope they get as much fun and enjoyment from cycling as I do!!
My fund-raising efforts continue, I didn't get the chance to spend much time on it this week, but now that I am back home, I will be back into it this week with some more talks to community groups to do..
Spent a fair few hours on the bike this week, and less hours jogging and swimming. This mainly came about as I was looking after a friend's house and pets on beautiful Bribie Island, so wasn't near my gym!! I still fitted in a couple of days work back on the Redcliffe Peninsula, so did that 108 km return trip twice, as well as cycled almost every road on the Island (some several times)!!. All good though - only marred by one puncture - which I am thrilled to report - I actually fixed myself!!! (a first!!) Took me forever - but I got there!!
Its been fascinating watching the progress of several pretty new bikers who have signed up for the 2 day, 200 km Ride for Cancer to be held here in August. Their enthusiasm is great - and to see them following the same path I did and moving from mountain bikes to roadies makes me smile!!I hope they get as much fun and enjoyment from cycling as I do!!
My fund-raising efforts continue, I didn't get the chance to spend much time on it this week, but now that I am back home, I will be back into it this week with some more talks to community groups to do..
Thursday 3rd February 2011 - 8 weeks to go!!
Time waits for nobody - it is simply whizzing by!! It seems a bit lame writing about biing with all the events in Queensland over the last 24 hours due to the cyclone! What destruction, but also what great planning that saw so many see the storm out in places of safety. A lot of rebuilding to be done now!
I have spoken to 2 Weight Reduction Clubs this week - they are so welcoming, and I hope my words may just inspire some others to stick to the task and never, never, never give up!! Its not easy - but it can be done!!
My donation totals continue to swell which is very exciting, and greatly appreciated!! It provides me with motivation and the Heart Foundation with essential funds!
I've managed a 2 hour ride each day this week, and tomorrow morning will be biking from Scarborough to Bribie Island - having breakfast - and then off for another 2 hour ride. This is starting to emulate what it will be like on my ride across Australia..
Time waits for nobody - it is simply whizzing by!! It seems a bit lame writing about biing with all the events in Queensland over the last 24 hours due to the cyclone! What destruction, but also what great planning that saw so many see the storm out in places of safety. A lot of rebuilding to be done now!
I have spoken to 2 Weight Reduction Clubs this week - they are so welcoming, and I hope my words may just inspire some others to stick to the task and never, never, never give up!! Its not easy - but it can be done!!
My donation totals continue to swell which is very exciting, and greatly appreciated!! It provides me with motivation and the Heart Foundation with essential funds!
I've managed a 2 hour ride each day this week, and tomorrow morning will be biking from Scarborough to Bribie Island - having breakfast - and then off for another 2 hour ride. This is starting to emulate what it will be like on my ride across Australia..
Thursday 27th January 2011 - 9 weeks to go!!!
A bit of a hiccup this week with my "crew" Pat starting the week with toothache and ending up in hospital for four days!! Alarming stuff at the time, but she is progressing well now thank goodness. As friends have said - just as well it happened now and not in the middle of the Nullarbor!! So true, but it has identified the need for a bit more conscientious planning to the "First Aid" component of my travels!!
Training this week has been a bit erratic! Not quite as much as I wished to do - but no use worrying, I'll just continue with my "plan" from now on.
I have a little back-log getting the data ready for several new "daily sponsors". These will be my priority this week - I can tell you - there are some interesting ones to come aboard!!.
The donation totals on both the New Zealand and Australian Heart Foundation sites have grown this week, which is really encouraging! A huge thanks to all who have contributed so far!!
The momentum is starting to build!!!
A bit of a hiccup this week with my "crew" Pat starting the week with toothache and ending up in hospital for four days!! Alarming stuff at the time, but she is progressing well now thank goodness. As friends have said - just as well it happened now and not in the middle of the Nullarbor!! So true, but it has identified the need for a bit more conscientious planning to the "First Aid" component of my travels!!
Training this week has been a bit erratic! Not quite as much as I wished to do - but no use worrying, I'll just continue with my "plan" from now on.
I have a little back-log getting the data ready for several new "daily sponsors". These will be my priority this week - I can tell you - there are some interesting ones to come aboard!!.
The donation totals on both the New Zealand and Australian Heart Foundation sites have grown this week, which is really encouraging! A huge thanks to all who have contributed so far!!
The momentum is starting to build!!!
Thursday 20th January 2011 - 10 weeks to go!!!!
A busy week in South East Queensland recovering from the floods - such a mess everywhere, and so many people left homeless or with serious damage to their properties. It must be a very tough time for them. I've managed to spend a bit of time helping clean up beaches around here. Every morning still sees another load of branches and debris washed up by the tides!
Training wise this week I've had 3 long rides on my bike around the Peninsula / Sandgate / Shorncliffe areas. I've also done 2 "spin" classes at the gym - wow - they make you work!!! A few runs on the treadmill, time on the rowing machine and a daily swim should be improving my cardio fitness. Next week I will be aiming for more road miles on the bike!
I was warmly welcomed to the Eagleby Branch of the Weight Reduction Club of Queensland - they were the first group I have spoken to in return for a donation to the Heart Foundation. Thanks for having me guys - I hope my story thus far might give a bit of encouragement to some of you. - I know it is not easy - but it can be done!!!!!
The fund-raising is going really well indeed - again, a huge THANKS to the donors so far. I've met some fabulous people who have come aboard as my "Daily Sponsors" - check out their adverts - and please support them if you can!
A busy week in South East Queensland recovering from the floods - such a mess everywhere, and so many people left homeless or with serious damage to their properties. It must be a very tough time for them. I've managed to spend a bit of time helping clean up beaches around here. Every morning still sees another load of branches and debris washed up by the tides!
Training wise this week I've had 3 long rides on my bike around the Peninsula / Sandgate / Shorncliffe areas. I've also done 2 "spin" classes at the gym - wow - they make you work!!! A few runs on the treadmill, time on the rowing machine and a daily swim should be improving my cardio fitness. Next week I will be aiming for more road miles on the bike!
I was warmly welcomed to the Eagleby Branch of the Weight Reduction Club of Queensland - they were the first group I have spoken to in return for a donation to the Heart Foundation. Thanks for having me guys - I hope my story thus far might give a bit of encouragement to some of you. - I know it is not easy - but it can be done!!!!!
The fund-raising is going really well indeed - again, a huge THANKS to the donors so far. I've met some fabulous people who have come aboard as my "Daily Sponsors" - check out their adverts - and please support them if you can!
Thursday 13th January 2011 - 11 weeks to go!!!!
What a week it has been here in Queensland! Water everywhere, and the absolutely crushing feeling that so many have lost their lives. What a dreadful time for all those affected. Thank goodness Scarborough on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula was spared. However, I just read that our beaches have been closed as they are covered in debris that has washed down the Brisbane River. Specially distressing news to me was that Cold Mountain Standardbred Stud went under. All they could do was open the gates, let the horses out and hope for the best. Sadly it seems 80 horses - mares' foals, yearlings and racehorses have drowned in the torrent that hit their area. Absolutely tragic.
My trip seems to pale into insignificance in comparison - but I have pushed on!! Dolphins Health Precinct opened on Monday and I have been there everyday this week working on my fitness. I will be going to "spin" classes every Monday and Friday - a lot of fun, a lot of energy!! I have used the treadmill, cross-trainer and rowing machines - and it is very relaxing to finish off with laps in the pool. Hopefully our weather is on the improve and I will be out and about on the bike more often.
I'm thrilled with the fund-raising $950 in the first week - and loads more promises!! Really good stuff and a big THANK YOU from me!!!! Super stuff!!!
What a week it has been here in Queensland! Water everywhere, and the absolutely crushing feeling that so many have lost their lives. What a dreadful time for all those affected. Thank goodness Scarborough on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula was spared. However, I just read that our beaches have been closed as they are covered in debris that has washed down the Brisbane River. Specially distressing news to me was that Cold Mountain Standardbred Stud went under. All they could do was open the gates, let the horses out and hope for the best. Sadly it seems 80 horses - mares' foals, yearlings and racehorses have drowned in the torrent that hit their area. Absolutely tragic.
My trip seems to pale into insignificance in comparison - but I have pushed on!! Dolphins Health Precinct opened on Monday and I have been there everyday this week working on my fitness. I will be going to "spin" classes every Monday and Friday - a lot of fun, a lot of energy!! I have used the treadmill, cross-trainer and rowing machines - and it is very relaxing to finish off with laps in the pool. Hopefully our weather is on the improve and I will be out and about on the bike more often.
I'm thrilled with the fund-raising $950 in the first week - and loads more promises!! Really good stuff and a big THANK YOU from me!!!! Super stuff!!!
Thursday 6th January 2011 - 12 weeks to go!!!!
That is all it is until I will be setting off from Scarborough in Perth (WA) - heading east where 6 weeks later I will reach Scarborough (Qld). That start date doesn't sound very far away - I've lots to do in the meantime!!!! I expected to start serious training on 1 January, but the weather in Queensland has been atrocious - so much rain - wet and slippery roads - not what I like going biking on!! But compared to those Queensland areas that are flooded, with loss of lives and properties - there is certainly no reason for me to moan that I can't get out to ride my bike!!
I finally got this web-site up and running over the Christmas / New Year break - it has been a sharp learning curve, and despite many frustrations, quite enjoyable. Everyone in my address book has now received an email to see if they would like to support my ride by making a donation to the Heart Foundation - every bit helps, so I hope you can find a few spare dollars. The New Zealand Heart Foundation site has started like a rocket - exciting times!!
I joined the new "Dolphins Health Precinct" - attached to the local Redcliffe Leagues Club - this is a wonderful swimming pool and gymnasium complex. I took up their special introductory one year membership offer, so as from Monday - I can train there if the weather doesn't improve!!
That is all it is until I will be setting off from Scarborough in Perth (WA) - heading east where 6 weeks later I will reach Scarborough (Qld). That start date doesn't sound very far away - I've lots to do in the meantime!!!! I expected to start serious training on 1 January, but the weather in Queensland has been atrocious - so much rain - wet and slippery roads - not what I like going biking on!! But compared to those Queensland areas that are flooded, with loss of lives and properties - there is certainly no reason for me to moan that I can't get out to ride my bike!!
I finally got this web-site up and running over the Christmas / New Year break - it has been a sharp learning curve, and despite many frustrations, quite enjoyable. Everyone in my address book has now received an email to see if they would like to support my ride by making a donation to the Heart Foundation - every bit helps, so I hope you can find a few spare dollars. The New Zealand Heart Foundation site has started like a rocket - exciting times!!
I joined the new "Dolphins Health Precinct" - attached to the local Redcliffe Leagues Club - this is a wonderful swimming pool and gymnasium complex. I took up their special introductory one year membership offer, so as from Monday - I can train there if the weather doesn't improve!!
Cycling to work is an important issue for business – the more who do it, the more our communities will support it.
Healthy and green, cycling is worthy of the support of every business in the land.
- Sir Digby Jones
Healthy and green, cycling is worthy of the support of every business in the land.
- Sir Digby Jones
