Training has started

I thought it must be about time to start training on the bike. Unfortunately I am the sort of person who leaves things until the last minute, and thinks- 'I'll do them nearer the time!' My only training on the bike this year has been to meetings in Leeds occasionally. I know I have decent fitness from running and have lost a lot of weight this year, so have not been too worried.

My First proper ride out- last Tuesday night with friend Jason- Things did not go to plan!!
After about ½ a mile I was left way behind and struggled to keep up everytime the road started to go up at all!
After about 30 minutes climbing up onto the moors- the black clouds appeared and we had to endure torrential rain! Through knee deep puddles, spray and stinging eyes we struggled on, and even decided against an easy short cut!! about 40 something miles later, wet, dirty and a bit annoyed we made it back to civilisation as we knew it! Then disaster struck again! A puncture about half a mile away from home- big hole in the tyre! SO I had to walk up hill in cycling shoes in the rain until home eventually! I was hoping this would be good mental training- what doesnt kill you only makes you stronger? or 'no pain no gain' according to Mr Hall! whatever it was Jason still seemed to have a grin on his face, which didnt make me feel much better.
Still after a beer, some tea and sleep life goes on.
Whats next I don't know- maybe I should stick to running after all?
That £1500 is still on my mind though.