The one that got away...

So I didn't do a challenge for 2 months and then all of a sudden two come in a matter of weeks.

The challenge on Sunday, challenge number 8 for those who are counting, is the additional one I've included due to the toe-gate!

This is the last of the bike ride challenges and its safe to say I will be glad to see the back of them. Although I thought it would be a welcome break from all the running it turns out that it hasn't been and although they have been amazing to do and complete I much prefer the running.

The only problem now is that I have to work hard to get myself back to the level I was before with my fitness. I took park in the local Parkrun on Saturday and was 5 minutes slower than my previous time for a 5k run.

The scary thing was that I couldn't run any faster than what I did so some serious miles need to be done before I take on the snowdonia marathon and the winter 100!

Before than I need to complete the Essex 100, which given the mountains I've had to endure over the last few challenges you'd think it should be pretty flat, give the fact that Essex isn't know for its hills, but you'd be mistaken!

Unfortunately I have no wingman for this challenge and like the Castle 100 in May I will be tackling this on my own, despite the other 600plus riders I will be riding solo.

As a gentle reminder this year long challenge is in aid of Springboard Opportunity Group as I aim to raise £5,000 to support the fantastic work that they do for children with disabilities. So if you can support no matter how large or small please visit my donation page https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/averagejoe.