I received an email from Jane this morning which she asked me to put on Cycle Chat, which I am more than happy to do:
"Dear Olaf and Friday Nighters on London to Brighton night ride,
Please accept my heartfelt thanks for the outstanding support and encouragement given to me on the ride.(Olaf Titus, Simon and back markers).
What an inspirational night it was for me, how the hell do you all get up those hills so easily.
I hope you understood my reasons for backing out at Gatwick and I apologise for slowing you all down on that first section of the ride.
After a rest at Gatwick I looked at Malcolm and said "you know I can't really back out now after getting this far," he knows what a determined madam I can be. He also had seen me put a map and directions in my pocket in case I did have to break away from the main group as I knew I could be biting off more than I could chew (the hills)I was aware he had packed maps just in case.
Without any hesitation up we got and on the road we went, Brighton here we come. What a lucky lady I am to have someone so patient and full of encouragement at my side to help me reach my goal.
On reaching Brighton and stepping foot into Weatherspoons we found Simon,Mark and Kevin still present. What a surprise they got to see us walk in and what better way to celebrate than a few pints and a double Bacardi and coke for me. we then caught the train back to London together.
I have now caught the cycling bug and know what work I've got to put in to become much fitter and a new bike to aid distance riding and not forgetting hill work.
Thank you all once again,
best wishes
Jane.
Ps is there a chance you could put this email on to the Cycle Chat sight for me so everyone can know how appreciative I was of the help and encouragement given."
I have to say I'm feeling really chuffed at the moment. That's what the Fridays are all about, right, left and center.