What an awesome race (TT) today. 23km from Longley pub to the top of Mt Wellington (1360m). The last couple of km were literally in the clouds. Fastest time I heard was 53 mins. by Sid Tabberley (MTB supremo), who went past me like I was standing still, which comparitively speaking I was. There were 167 starters of all ages, fitness levels and bike types - even one recumbant. It was great to see everyone having a real go.
The descent for those who did it, is gruesome. I'm glad it wasn't part of the race. Pretty fast and rough. Good to put the brain in a jar and see how brave you can be. Forearms get an ache if you spend to long on the brakes. Interesting to see the looks on the faces of the climbers as you wizz past on the way down - you can see that they are just wishing to get to the top and get it over with.
