Many accounts of this year's 3 Peaks Cyclocross race are coming out left, right and centre. Dave Haygarth is doing a superb job at linking to the many blogs, videos and photo galleries covering the event. Check out http://3pcx.blogspot.com/ for getting inspired.
There is even a report compiled by John covering the Peaks from the team's perspective. See http://www.biketreksracing.com/biketreks-racing-team-tackle-the-3-peaks
But, how was it for me? TOUGH. The results don't lie. 5h11min. I was slow, very slow. However, off-road riding has never been my forte. The lack of experience was obvious. To be quite honest, I can't imagine completing this without having put some hours of Peaks specific training.
Road sections: Brilliant. In my element. Ridable Off-road sections : Not too bad. Grovelling up unridable sections up the fells? VERY VERY SLOW. Descents: VERY VERY SLOW.
Difficult to comprehend this race really. It's unique. Did I enjoy myself? mmm... I'd say enjoyment is a strong word. It was an interesting journey in discovering new sets of aching muscles. The question is will I do it again? most definitely. I am eating my words as I was adamant that it would be a one-off.
The 3 Peaks bug has been caught. Ingleborough, Whernside, Pen-Y-Ghent: See you all next year.
