I set off in the morning with a group of five cyclists all from Vodafone - Jonathan, Neil, Paul, Phil & Tom. Me and my cycle buddies stayed together for the day, with everyone taking it in turns to lead the group so others could rest.
I spent a fair amount of time at the rear of the pack, talking to Neil however when we came to hills, that was my time to shine (as those who know me will tell you, I do like a good hill!).
A way into the ride, the group had a chaperone join to help police lead times, making sure we all got a decent amount of rest and didn't overdo out time at the head of the pack.
The road surfaces today were absolutely atrocious and with the wind at our front and the vibrations through the saddle, it was a thoroughly uncomfortable day.
The saving grace was that having reached Scotland, the scenery got more beautiful as day went on and as we had a dry day for a change, it made for lovely views as we rode past.
Overall, it was another really hard day and if it hadn't been for the group, I do feel I would have failed.
I was so happy to see the smiling face of Joy's cousin Chris at Hamilton Raceourse and even happier when I was told it had been arranged for me to leave the camp site behind for the night in favour of a comfortable bed and warm room at the lovely Shorty Towers.
The last few days of this ride are going to form the toughest challenge I've faced but I am determined to get to the end.
Day 6 Stats
Start: Penrith
Finish: Hamilton
Distance: 100 miles
Climbing: 1,230 metres
Average speed: 15 mph
Duration: 6 hours, 39 minutes
Well done bro. My virtual hand is reaching out to you. The end is so close now, your looking great. Bigs hugs, lots of love.
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