Some years ago I decided I wanted to ride LeJog. ** My wife asked why, to which my answer was basically "because it's there." She asked more questions which lead me to realise my motivation was simply to complete the ride because I saw it as a challenge and possibly impress others. Her view was why not do something new, adventurous which might bring more pleasure than just completing an established route?
On that occasion I toured the Outer Hebrides, setting off from Arran and ending in Inverness. She was right, it was a stunning tour.
For my 60th my wife asked me what I wanted to do, she said it should be something I wouldn't normally do. In her mind was a celebration of some sort with friends etc. I decided to ride from home to the Mediterranean. Practicality meant I had to change the destination to Bordeaux. It was a great tour and did challenge me in several ways but not in the sense of riding a bike.
So my question to you would be this. Why do you want a challenge in the sense of riding a big climb? Might it not be more interesting to undertake an enjoyable cycling experience but one which could present other aspects of challenge?
I'm 62, last Saturday I rode Hardknott Pass for the first time. The conditions were atrocious, low cloud, mist, rain and run off almost covering the road. That was a challenge because it's there. Challenges will always be there and can be attempted any time. Celebrating and marking a life event with something out of the ordinary only happens once.
** I fully understand and mean no disrespect to LeJogers. I'll probably do it one day.
My French tour cost less than 50% of the advertised packages.
Hardknott Saturday 2017 03 18.
