Maillot Jaune favourite injury shock

Gravely concerned about the condition of his gear cable, Big Al, our tour professional, made a visit to the Seamie Downey Bike Clinic in order to remedy the problem. Little did he know, that within a matter of hours he would be facing an even graver concern, putting his whole participation in the event into question. Al, however, the eternal optimist, was not keen to undermine his position " en tete du peloton", by admitting his concern but the evidence was clear when he was spotted hobbling from his four-wheeled vehicle today.

Al tries to hide the pain

Fear not, Big Al, it's not a race and besides Big Davy has just completed his 2 day crash course in Sports massage. Together, we will get you there!

Remember the reason for the challenge and if Al is prepared to suffer (well he is sharing with me), then so should you!!

http://www.justgiving.com/mizenhead2malinhead

Pimping Jonty's Ride

We are in debt to the vehicle maintenance team at Laurelhill for the time and effort in customising the team support vehicle for the upcoming challenge. It would not be possible to take on the roads of Ireland without the "Broom Wagon" to transport us to the start and to lessen the hardship on the road by serving as our luggage courier and spares back up. This is not as simple as it might sound and consequently it has been necessary to customise and adapt the vehicle  to accommodate the portmanteau that Jonty insists on carrying around the country.

Making room for Jonty's hair straighteners

With Jonty's kit on board, someone will have to assume the Mr Softee pose atop the vehicle. The big lad loves getting the wind in his hair!

The photo includes a timely reminder as to why we are going to be on the road next week so in case you have forgotten, here's the link to the donations page.

http://www.justgiving.com/mizenhead2malinhead

We are Cutting Edge

Called in for a pre cycle trim and the Vidal Sassoon of Belfast, better known as Frankie "Scissorhands" Campbell, presents us with a healthy wedge of paper money to top up our collection purse. £100 and no less, so it's a huge thank you to Frankie who has been very supportive of our charity fundraising in the past. So if your hair looks grim and you need a trim, get down to The Cutting Edge, of Ormeau Road, Belfast.

A firm handshake from Vidal

Upon my return, I have had confirmation from Aileen, the proprietor of Tom Crean's Restaurant in Kenmare that she will provide lunch for us on day two of the challenge en route to Killarney. Thank you Aileen and we look forward to visiting the Tom Crean next Monday.

Some of you might be familiar with the career of Michael Fish, top weatherman of the 80's. Someone purporting to be his representative (Brian Bream) has called to say that high pressure will precede a warm front in south west Ireland next week which will lead to balmy cycling days and hot restless nights. Jimi can't wait! I would like a second opinion. Where's John Kettley?

Countdown Begins

With less than a week to go, the team are easing down on the training and commencing the carbohydrate loading, aren't they? Well maybe some while some others have decided to eat less crisps and pizza - Brian's latest get fit quick regime. The last one involved changing from cheese and onion to ready salted but the downside was the parallel requirement to drink more Magners to quench the thirst brought on by the new flavour. Outcome meant more time in the steam room and less time in the loo and a new set of Salter's electronic "I lie about your weight" scales, so everyone was happy. 

This time there will be no hiding place, especially when you have an arse the size of a JCB. But, hey this is not a race. We are here to help each other complete the challenge. Mizen to Malin or bust!

Check out the video and get ready to ride.