Ever considered a 50 mile time trial?

The alarm went off but I was already awake in anticipation of my first 50 Time Trial.  The weather forecast was a bit iffy but no rain so far.

We got to HQ and the skies started to look heavy.  I was off at No.18 and Michael No.51 so we thought he would overtake me at some stage.

The heavens opened just as a couple of riders in front of me started.  Fortunately the rain stopped although the roads were pretty wet and I thought the wind was kinder than expected. Normally that stretch from Camber back to Lydd can be hell.  I seemed to be pacing myself well and with encouragement from the marshals felt even quite happy to be partaking in this event.  Michael overtook me on the second lap just after Hammond's Corner and as he went by he shouted words of encouragement - at least I think that's what he was shouting.  This gave me a boost and meant not far to go and hopefully I had left enough in the tank to give a final push at the end.  As I turned for Brenzett Green I kept looking for Pat Hill but it seemed a long way off but then she appeared on the horizon and all was done.

I was pleased to have completed the course and much comforted by all the encouragement by all around me.  It has inspired me to have another go and hopefully other riders will have a go to - anyone can do it!

 

Rachelle Pumphrey