In the last 4 weeks much has happened.
I have done a couple of home to Hutt rides, one of which was over 65km, both were on nice sunny days. I have also spent considerable time on the static bike after work, getting my legs used to the long spin cycle. I can't wait till we move the office and I can start commuting again, I really miss my morning rides.
At the end of Jan a whole lot of people pulled out of the radle, meaning that only a few of us were left behind. I was already in a blind panic about the length and difficulty of the daily schedules, so was slightly relieved when it was postponed (to spring?). I was wondering about cancelling my leave when I decided I would instead go and ride the Central Otago Rail Trail. I have been wanting to ride this for a few years, but never had the time or companions to do it with. Now I do have the time, just no companions, so I have decided to do it solo.
OK, yes, a diabetic doing a 150km ride in the 'outback' of Otago solo does seem a little mad, but the rail trail is well populated, and it's a cruise not a race, so I do not foresee any issues. Flights have been booked, accommodation sorted in Dunedin, Lauder and Waipiata, shuttles organised and now I just have to sort my packing and provisions and get going. I'm heading to Dunedin in just over a week and to Clyde on Monday morning. I'll leave Clyde at midday and arrive in Middlemarch on Wednesday afternoon. 3 days seems a nice pace, about 50km/day should allow plenty of sightseeing and visiting the various vineyards and taverns along the trail :)
My sugars have been consistently good recently, probably due to an improved diet, and I have lost a bit of weight. I'm still a fat bastard, but less fat than a month ago. I'm looking forward to my ride, and after a few test rides, I know I'll be capable at least. Plenty of photos to probably follow.
