10. DAY 2 Friday 23rd August

Start Point: Torside 760'

Highest point during the day 1415'

End Point: Pollington  30'

Total climbing 1150'

Climbing difficulty factor 39

Distance 59 miles
Cumulative distance 106 miles

 

Ok, I'm going to say it! Nipples!

I've heard people before mention this as a cyclist's problem, but it's never troubled me before today. I noticed a slight burning feeling on one side this morning and tried to ignore it. By mid afternoon, I was quite sore on both sides. I'm wondering if it's the material of the particular shirt I'm wearing? Anyway, tomorrow will see me using a couple of plasters (which Jennee suggested I take - although I'm sure she was thinking of a grazed knee or something). 

Apart from that, today's ride was pleasant. It was 7 miles to the summit including about a mile of pushing the bike up grass covered hills that would have been impossible to cycle up for anyone even without pannier bags!

 

 

I passed the highest point of the UK ride at 10:30 then free wheeled at over 35mph down the other side. 

Drink is the most important item when cycling all day, and the trans pennine trail tends to be cycle paths and off road so there are few shops on the way. When I saw a sign for Penistone Town Centre 1/4 mile, I came of the path and found some refreshments. 

Later on, I noticed the section I was on, was actually a salt line (see picture).

 

 

It was surprising to be over 60 miles from home and still seeing routes once used to move salt from Cheshire. 

Most of the rest of the day was level on straight paths in good weather. At one point, I was on a very narrow path with nettles and weeds about 4' high on each side. Suddenly, I realised another cyclist was coming the opposite way. We were both going quite fast and both slammed on the brakes instinctively keeping left. We came to a stop literally next to each other but no collision. Phew!

My BnB was reached at 5:30. The nearest place to get something to eat was 3 miles away so I accepted the offer of a £1.50 sandwich from my landlady!

Unfortunately, the weather forecast for tomorrow is rain. It's my last day before having a rest. I should get to Brian and Susan's in Beverley about 5pm. On Sunday there is a horse race meeting at Beverley racecourse which I think Brian and I are going to. I'm sure I will be well fed and looked after until Monday lunchtime when I will set off on a short (15 miles) trip to the ferry terminal.