Day 72 Argentia to St Johns 83 Miles

Well what a night and what a way to finish!

Last night TDC decided to book us into a camp site on the top of a hill and without any cover, one toilet between 28 blokes and no facilities at all to speak of. That would of course have been fine if it had not been for the strong winds that we put our tents up in and a forecast that predicted 80km/h gusts overnight.

Simo and I were already having problems trying to keep the tents up so we sweet talked the security guard into letting us use one of the offices to sleep in, we kept it quiet and just took down our tents and moved inside. We were having a good laugh at the expense of the others still trying to battle the elements.

At about 10pm though it got really windy and few tents started to come down. We were joined in the office by a steady stream of de-tented campers and the halls, toilets and offices were all utilised.

This morning was carnage across the site and people were just glad to have survived I think.

Having got over all the emotions of last night we set off quite early for the last ride of the trip. One benefit of the storm was we had a great tails wind for much of the ride which made it so much easier.

The first 40km were knocked off very quickly in just over an hour and then we pulled in for breakfast.

Breakfast was uneventful until another table erupted with laughter, it transpired the waitress had asked Randy if he wanted the Seniors rate for his breakfast, she thought he was 65 or older! Obviously the whole group consoled him in his moment of need and fiercely rebuked the waitress and none of his closest friends thought it was funny.

 

After breakfast we just knocked off the km's until we got to town where a larger group met up at a Tim Horton's. We then all moved off together and cycled the last few km into St Johns together. We paused at the Terry Fox memorial and then dipped our wheels in the harbour before heading to the top of Signal Hill for the finish line. The last climb was tough but we all made it and at the top there was great deal of relief and happiness as people congratulated each other for making the trip.

The first thing I did was to phone Zoe and then send a few texts to friends and family, it was a strange feeling stood there looking back over the town where we had come from and then looking East out to sea towards home. I was closer to home than to Vancouver and although I have had a fantastic time I will be glad to get on the plane home.

After a while at the top I rolled back down Signal Hill to our hotel, checked in and got my bike stripped down ready to put into the bike box. Tonight we have a dinner and drinks planned which I'm sure will be good laugh.

Tomorrow is just packing and flying so no blog.

In the meantime I must record a few thank-yous;

Firstly to Zoe for putting up with all the planning, training and of course the absence for the trip, I have missed you more than you can imagine and can't wait to see you on Tuesday.

To Lois, Matt, the outlaws and my parents for their support during the trip and to all the other family and friends who have sent messages during the trip.

To Randy and Tom (and the five star babes) for making the trip a fantastic one, friends for life I hope, even if Randy is apparently so much older than Tom and I. I hope Mrs Rogers Snr will forgive me for my tongue in cheek comments with time.

To all the other ”Dogs” and members of the tour who have all contributed to me having such a great time, you are always welcome at my door, well except for Kevin "The Dog" as his manners are terrible.

And finally one thought. As you will have read I recently lost my cousin Robbie to cancer. As I climbed Signal Hill I thought of Robbie and Linda, his mother, and how very lucky I was to be able to do what I have just done. I have thoroughly enjoyed my trip and I will enjoy the memories of it for many years to come.

Upwards and Homewards!!!

THE END.

Day 71 North Sydney to Argentia 266 Miles

All our fears regarding the weather seem to have come to nothing. We boarded at about 11pm, I had to strap my bike to a metal pillar which didn't impress me much as there wasn't much protection if the ship rolled about and then I went straight for the bunk having doped myself up with travel pills.

I hit the pillow and with the exception of the odd snorer in amongst the other 25 or so in the dormitory I slept well until about 3am when I awoke couldn't feel the boat moving at all and so went back to sleep. I woke again at 6am and got up and was pleased to note the floor wasn't moving at all. I popped outside and the sea was flat and the sun shining. After a quick photo I went back to bed and that was me until about 10am when I finally crawled out of my bunk again to find we were fog bound in a flat calm, quite a difference from 100mph winds and 25ft waves as predicted.

The ferry was quite old but comfortable, but the Internet signal was poor and despite others having a signal my mobile didn't want to play.

We disembarked on time and after a short delay unloading bikes, none of which had any damage thankfully we pedalled off into out 10th and final province of Newfoundland.

Tonights camp site is an RV site with not many facilities. I still can't get a mobile signal but I do have Internet access. It is on top of a hill in the middle of nowhere with no protection so lets hope the wind doesn't get up or it could be an interesting night!

So tonight is my last night under canvas, tomorrow I bin the tent and most of the trimmings so I don't have to cart them back to the UK then its a short 148km into St Johns, with a predicted strong tail wind hopefully and then its all over.

We have a dinner and karaoke planned for the last night plus a few speeches. I am hoping to get away early tomorrow and get to the hotel in time to strip and pack my bike before dinner then I have Monday to sort my bags before I fly home.


Onwards and Upwards!

Day 70 Englishtown to North Sydney 30 miles

A slow start today as we had loads of time on our hands. I had sorted my bags last night so it was just a case of packing the tent etc away and then get ready for a short ride to the ferry.

Last night was entertaining though for one of the group. Taso got up during the night to attend to a need and when he got back to his tent there was a Coyote outside his tent eating some rubbish off the floor. After a few seconds it made off but it put the wind up him a bit, and it was only 10feeet from my tent so I'm glad I hadn't got up!

We set off at about 9am and having turned left out of the camp we were greated by a short but stiff climb up to the main road and then a steady climb for another 5km or so up to the top of Kellys Mountain. The descent was good fun and I got overtaken by the local Police officer who tried to get me to ride on the hard shoulder, but I carried on as the shoulder was covered in rubbish and cracks in the tarmac and I didn't fancy that at 60km plus.

We crossed over the river and Tom had to go through the wringer again as it very high and narrow, not good for someone not good at heights.

After a quick breakfast snack we knocked off the remaining 25km in record time and found ourselves in the very small town of North Sydney with not a lot to do for about 12hours......so to the pub we went.

Some hours later, and after a visit tot he local library we hit the TDC rendezvous point got fed and then headed for the ferry terminal for a shower and air conditioning.

As I sit writing this we have another 3 or so hours before we board and the news is we should not get hit too hard by the Hurricane.

So today I finally crossed a continent on my bike. I can say that as Newfoundland is an island and not part of the continent as such, 7500km completed with just 148km to go until I have cycled through all 10 provinces of Canada.



Onwards and Upwards!

Day 68 Dingwall to Englishtown 65miles

After celebrating Randy's birthday with a Lobster dinner , courtesy of Tom I hit the sack early and very tired. Sadly my sleep was disturbed by the digger working in the tent a few yards away from me and after an our of trying to ignore the snoring I resorted to ear plugs before I was able to get back to sleep.

At about midnight I popped out to serve the call of nature and for the first time during the trip there was a clear sky and I was able to see the stars. There were so many more than I am used to seeing. It was amazing and I stood for a couple of minutes trying to work out which constellation was which before the Mozzies latched onto me and I had to head for cover.

The night was very warm and I awoke to a dry tent and steady SW breeze which meant headwind.

We moved out quite early, today was shorter than yesterday and only one major climb but we wanted to get it done before the heat got too bad. Almost as soon as we got out of camp we were climbing, not the gentle warm up we had all been looking for, but I just ground it out for a few km and then was treated to an 8km 6% descent which was great.

The first 40km or so was rolling with the odd steep ascent but then we got into a series of road works; over here they spray the roads to keep the dust down but that means that as you cycle through you get covered in a fine spray of mud which get everywhere and makes your bike and all your gear filthy.




After the road works we stopped for breakfast before the big climb and then set out again slightly worried about how the legs would hold out after yesterday.

We started the climb of Old Smokie, a famous Mountain in Canada and subject of songs and nursery rhymes over many years. Just as we got to the foothills the we swept round a large bend and the wind was behind us all the way tot he top. The climb was about 4/5km but it wasn't as steep as yesterday and with the wind we flew up tot he top. Coming down was great fun, sweeping bends and steep declines and at one point I turned into the wind and was almost knocked over.

Having dropped like a stone to the bottom I teamed up with Dan and Shirley as the rest of the ride was into a strong head/side wind which was hot and very drying. WE trundled on over more rolling country and then enjoyed a very brief rest as we got a ferry across the peninsular into Englishtown.

Englishtown is not a town, in fact its no more than a hamlet so we went straight to the camp where we have had to spend some time sorting bags ready for the ferry trip tomorrow. The plan is to get to into town for a dinner at 6pm load the bikes onto an new truck and then board the ferry at 11.30pm, we depart at 01.30 Sat Am. I checked with Z and we are hopeful the hurricane, or whats left of it may miss us.

Tomorrow is only 49km into North Sydney so should be a breeze.

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 68 Lake Ainslie to Dingwall 88 miles

WOW What a day!.

I woke about 5.30 and thought I'd grab another half an hours sleep. It started tor ain at 5.40am and by the time I'd got up and sorted my sleeping gear the tent was soaked. Breakfast was a mess as the rain kept starting and stopping and I couldn't make my mind up what to wear. I knew it was going to be a climbing day so I didn't want to wear my waterproofs but it was 80km until we started to climb so I didn't want to get wet and then freeze as we went up the mountains.

Thankfully the rain stopped as we were about to leave camp so I packed the waterproofs in the bag just in case. In fact I need not have bothered as the weather got better and better as the day went on but who was to know?

Tom and I were on our own to day as Randy (Birthday Boy) was on galley duty and Tim and Don were taking a short cut to North Sydney to avoid the mountains. We set up at a gentle pace as we knew it was going to be tough but after a few miles we got into our rhythm again and with a healthy tail wind were soon in Cheticamp come 80 along the road and having breakfast before the first big climb. The first part of todays ride was beautiful, it was like riding along the Cornish Coast with some Mountains to look at inland.

I have to admit I was a little nervous as everyone we have talked to about the Cabot Trail has told us whata difficult route it was so I headed out of Cheticamp with a little flutter in my stomach. When it came it was just like watching the Tour De France, one minute you're cycling along a flat valley the next you turn left and this mountain pass erupts out of nowhere. We started with what was described in the notes as a warm up, just 14% and about 1km long before it flattened a little . We got through that ok and then the road just kept climbing at anything from 8% to 12% for the next 9km. It was relentless and the sweat was dripping off me like never before but I got into a nice rhythm and just tapped it out all the way to the top.

I stopped to put some gear on at the top anticipating a descent but after another 2km and no descent I took them off again and just carried on. The notes told me we had another climb almost immediately but as I approached it the wind got behind me and I was coasting along up an 9% incline at about 34km/h. It was a fantastic feeling after such a tough climb. When the descent into Pleasant Bay came it was to say the least exhilarating. Switch back turns and steep descents, flat out along the straights then hard on the brakes to slow for the 180 degree bends, popping out to overtake cars and trying not to cross the centre line as you went around the hairpins in case you hit oncoming traffic.

 At the bottom we stopped for lunch and I had a lovely seafood dish then we headed out knowing the worst climb of the day was to come.








6 km down the road the worst climb I have ever been on started. We turned right and there in front of us was a 4km climb at 14% more or less straight up. I got started ok but for some reason just could not get into a rhythm like the first climbs.

I tried every trick I knew to try to get going but in the end had to settle for just grinding it out in my lowest gear. After 2.2km I was traveling at 5.1km/h and was so slow I was having trouble balancing so I stopped and tried starting again but to no avail. I decided to walk for a while to get my breath back and after 100m or so got back on but without much success and after another couple of attempts to get going decided to cut my losses and walk for a while. I think I walked for about 1.7km at about 4.8km/h just a fraction slower than I was when riding but I managed to get to a point where I could get back on and finish the climb.

At the top I was absolutely knackered, but the descent soon brought me to life again. I maxed out at about 77km/h as I shot down the mountainside straightening bends and hitting the apexes, it was brilliant.

The remaining 20km was just a case of getting to camp along the valley floor. I arrived in camp absolutely jiggered but it had been a great day, probably the most existing and most definitely the most difficult of the tour.

Tomorrow I think we have about 80miles to do with a slightly less difficult climb and then we had downhill back towards the dreaded Ferry trip...no news on Earl yet!

Oh and I saw a Moose today with a calf!!!


Onwards and Upwards!

Day 67 Cranberry Camp Ground to Lake Ainslie 103 miles

We got up extra early as we knew it was going to be hot so I was packing away the tent in the dark whilst being savaged by the blessed Mozzies. A quick bowl of porridge and a coffee and we were off.

A slightly smaller group today as Tom was on Galley duty and we had forgotten to tell One Sock about the early start and he wasn't ready in time. In the best traditions of the tour so far we decided to leave rather than wait for him!

We made our first stop of the day with just less than 500m completed as we passed a shop and some of the group filled up with goodies for the trip.

The first 45 km of the route was wonderful, rolling countryside in dawn calm conditions with very little traffic. It got a bit steeper after a few km but they were gentle gradients and perfect for a warm up in slightly cool conditions.

We rolled into Antigonish and stopped fro breakfast and then ploughed on as we knew we had a long way to go. We stayed on the highway which wasn't as picturesque but funnily enough because of several bits of road works the traffic was coming along in lumps and you got large sections of road where there was no traffic at all.

The wind started to turn against us though and we had to work quite hard at times to make headway.

Our lunch stop was at the Canso Causeway where we drove onto Cape Bretton, and then we turned head on into the wind for the next 60km or so. It was quite finicky though as one minute you were being blown sideways and then the next it was pushing you along, it must be the effects of the mountains as it was really inconsistent.

After a 50km slog we stopped for a milk shake at a local farmers market and then ploughed on directly into the wind for the last 14km into camp. I was knackered and so were most of the group.

Post tent erection and showers time is being dedicated to what should be the final wash of the trip, we have 4 riding days left and I have 4 sets of kit so emergencies allowing that should be it. I have every intention to start throwing our socks etc now that I am nearly finished; I dread to think what the customs officer at Heathrow might say if I was to carry some of my gear back to the UK.

Tomorrow is the”beast day” of the trip 140km (80 Miles) all hilly and two big climbs over 450m so should be a challenge. If the wind is in our faces it will be a long long day.





Other news is that Hurricane Earl is on its way North from the Caribbean, the remnants of it are forecast to arrive in Newfoundland on Friday, this coincides nicely with our departure on a 14 hour ferry trip at midnight on Friday, sounds interesting, watch this space for details.

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 66 Cornwall to Cranberry Camp Ground 72 miles

Today was my last breakfast duty but we didn't hang about. Because most people were up early to get on the road to catch the ferry we were able to pack up and hit the road at 7.40am, the earliest we have managed.

Don, Tim, Taso, One Sock and I set off quite gently as we didn't think we could cover the 74km to get to the ferry by 11am but after an hour we had covered 35km and so we decided to put the hammer down and go for it. Don was feeling too good, he has been suffering a little with a bad back but he got stuck in and we managed to make the ferry by the skin of out teeth.

The ferry trip lasted about 75mins and then we disembarked into our 9th province Nova Scotia. After the obligatory photo at the sign we just got going again and headed for New Glasgow for lunch.

The scenery today was reminiscent of the shield in Ontario with sweeping bends and hills with swampy woodlands and then open fields with various livestock.

You wont be surprised to know that most places, and it would seem people are named after Scottish places or people, most descend prom the Highland clearances of the 1700's and the potato famines in Ireland at about the same time which produced a rich Irish Scott mix that is fiercely protected. Even the Province flag is based upon the Soltaire.

As we were early we stopped for a pint and burger in an Irish pub, it was great to at least feel as if I was at home and the beer was good too.

We left the pub with about 30km to complete but it was really hot, I would guess into the low 30,s and after a liquid lunch it was a bit of a struggle to be honest.

The camp site is another beautiful one with my tent overlooking a lake (I think) and out in the open. There are a few of the dreaded Mozzys but not too many and As I type this I am sat in a nice breeze int eh shade drinking a bottle of crap Canadian beer watching tonight cook crew work on a vegetarian shepherds pie.

Tomorrow is a long day, 105 miles, and if its this hot that could be tough. Only 5 riding days left before I finish though so I should make the most of it as it will all be over sooner than I think.


Onwards and Upwards!

Day 65 Murray Beach to Cornwall 50 miles

Best laid plans went to pieces today. Last night we decided as we only had a short trip today we would have a lie in and then head for the shuttle over the bridge into PEI (Prince Edward Island). It failed for a number of reasons; firstly the tent flappers who got up at 5.30 woke me up, then the call of nature prevented me going back to sleep and then having finally given in and got up, when we got to the shuttle bus it turned out to be nearly 2 hours before we could get across the bridge.

Having finally got onto the shuttle we were whipped across the bridge only to find when we unloaded the bikes that I had a flat rear tyre. The boys helped me chage it and then we wnet for lunch, chowder again but when in the home of seasfood why not!


After lunch we set off across PEI, our 8th province out of 10,which is known for Anne of Green Gables and red potatoes. We didn't see Anne but there lots of potatoes.


We stopped briefly at Victoria for a rest and then headed fro camp getting in at about 3pm. The camp site is great with a view to kill for across open river/estuary and out to sea. I was able to catch up with Z who has been busy decorating the conservatory and then I had to get to work on the bike repairing a few tubes and tyres in preparation for the three days of mountains ahead.


I am feeling a bit sore at the moment, for the last 10 days or so my back has been very stiff and for some reason my left thigh has decided to hurt when I stand up climbing, I hope this is not a sign of things to come because the next ¾ days are going to be tough, but as Z said remember you're on holiday some of us are still working.


Dinner tonight was Corn and seafood chowder, very nice although the bread was out of date!


Tomorrow is another mixed day with 72 miles to cover either side of a ferry ride. We enter our 9th province, Nova Scotia, tomorrow. The notes say it should be the best sunset view of the trip.

Sorry No Photos tonight Laptop issues.


Onwards and Upwards!

Day 64 St Louis De Kent to Murray Beach 91 miles

Our rest day finished in style with a tremendous pot luck dinner. As the TDC staff had locked anything edible that wasn't in a can away we all brought stuff from the local shop and I opened one of the cans of chilli from the truck added some hot dogs and warmed it up.

As you will see from the photo the Chilli didn't look much and in truth it didn't taste like much either but we had a good laugh over dinner.

Sadly for the first time of the tour the pressure of the trip got to one or two of the group during dinner and after a long discussion regarding the benefits or otherwise of breaking in a pace line and pedalling down hill Randy and Tom fell out. It was like watching an old married couple having a barny, aided and abetted by the odd supportive comment from the rest of the group, but if anyone out there ever wants to cheese Randy off, tell him he's a poor decision maker and if you want to upset Tom tell him he doesn't ride a pace line properly.


It was fantastic fun just slowly winding them both up to the point where there was nowhere to go but the use of expletives, I have to say I was very proud of the way the group worked together to achieve the end results.

After dinner Tom rang Randy's wife and complained that Randy wasn't being very nice to him and worse than that I had apparently sided with Randy which wasn't fair, so could she have a word with him and straighten him out. A short while later Randy got a call! I hadn't laughed so much for ages.

Today dawned with broken cloud and a good forecast, the local Mozzy population had obviously found out we were about and were out in force so we hurried breakfast.

After only a few km we had our first incident when one of the group was very late with a signal and Tom ran into a hole in the road which caused a slow pinch flat. Unlike previous experiences the group all rushed to help Tom with his tyre change; well almost all, as Randy took time out to think about life and reflect upon the previous evening.

We soon had him back on the road and we rolled along into the town of Bouctouche where we stumbled across a farmers market complete with a band and nick-nack stores. We spent half an hour or so filling up on cake and I bought a bracelet for Georgia.

Our next stop was an enforced one as we had to walk across a newly constructed bridge and as we got to the other side we stood and watched at least 100 motorbikes rumble past. They were on a ride out from our next town where they were having a weekend rally, it was quite impressive.

A couple of km along the road we were into Shediac, home of the giant Lobster,where we stopped for Seafood Chowder. The chowder was wonderful, the best of the trip so far, with loads of seafood in it and a portion of fries to go with it.

After lunch we just got into a rhythm and knocked off the miles as we headed for camp, we had to carry our bikes across another dismantled bridge about 10km from camp and we arrived in camp at about 4pm.

Tonights camp is located on the coast overlooking the sea and across to Prince Edward Island, our 8th province which we will visit tomorrow, it is a beautiful site and I have a beautiful view from the tent.

The weather is apparently set fair and the forecast is for 25/26 degrees and high humidity tomorrow so it should be a great days cycling and its only about 50 miles plus a shuttle trip across a long bridge.

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 63 St Louis De Kent Rest Day

Last night dinner was pretty good, we each had a Lobster and a couple of bean salad type side dishes follwed by Bill Brandy soaked Bananas so all in all a good meal.

After dinner we lit our first real fire of the trip and few of sat round and chewed the fat over a few drinks but after an hour or so the weather turned wet again and I headed for bed.

Friday dawned clear and warm but with the threat of showers, I slept in until about 8am and then got up as a group was headed for breakfast just up the road. We all piled into a local Motel and pretty much demolished their buffet breakfast but it was nice to be able to sit and eat and have luxuries such as toast for a change.

After breakfast Kelly and I had one last attempt at fixing the lap top but unfortunately it was to no avail so we have admitted defeat and I will try to resolve issues upon my return to the UK.

I have given the bike chain assembly a good clean and oil this morning, it was making some weird and wonderful noises by the end of yesterdays ride. After a short test ride to the local Coop to buy food it seems to have been cured.

The rest of the day has been spent catching up with family, swimming in the camp site pool and resting, I am knackered after the last 6 days. I don't know why I feel so tired, maybe the faster days and head winds took more out of me than I thought, but today has been a really lazy day and my body is telling me that is what it needs.

Tomorrow we start the last push, as many are calling it, with no more days off until we get to St Johns on Sept 5th. There are 600 miles to go, most of which should be on reasonable terrain but there are a couple of tough climbing days ahead on the Cabot trail. Thankfully the weather appears to be set fair. Mentally I think a lot of us are just keen to get the miles done and finish, it has been a most wonderful time and I have met some fantastic new friends but it feels at times as if we have been at it for ever and it will be great to get to St Johns and hop on the flight home.

Dinner tonight will be a pot luck affair as most of the dogs have been into town and bought various bits and pieces to share, I dread to think what combinations we will deliver but it will all be eaten.

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 62 Petit Rocher to St Lois De Kent 92 miles

Having caught up with Z on Skype on Wed evening (Thanks to Tom for loaning my his lap top.) I returned to camp to find a small revolution in play, there were many unhappy campers complaining about the food again. We had been treated to vegetarian rice again! What TDC don't seem to realise is that even if your change the name of the dish if you put the same ingredients in each time its the same meal. Its hard on the cooking crew but probably reflective of how TDC treat us.

After dinner Tim, Don, Tom, Randy and I threw together a clam chowder. Tim had bought Clams and Mussels and between us we managed to turn out quite a nice chowder, supplemented by Tom's cheese and biscuits and a couple of pies, one meat and one raisin. All in all not a bad effort for a bunch of kitchen shy blokes. What was my contribution I hear you ask? Well Randy and I helped with some of the cooking and then ate it, not a bad contribution if you ask me.

As we were finishing up it started to spit with rain and so we dived for the tents. It rained on and off all night and I awoke to a dark, we put the clocks forwards an hour yesterday, damp and soggy campsite. It was quite glum this morning as everyone knew it was going to be a long day and the drizzle wasn't going to help much.

After breakfast Don, Tim, Randy, Tom, One Sock and I headed out and just got on with it. We were wrapped up in our waterproofs which kept most of the wet out but the trouble is they can't dissipate the heat and perspiration we athletes generate so you get soaked inside anyway.

We stopped for coffee at “Rotten Ronnie's” as McDonald's has become known and I had a chat with some local gents about the trip. They asked me to thank the Queen on behalf of the Canadian people for inventing ice hockey all those years ago. Just as well really or they wouldn't have had anything to talk about or do in the winter if we hadn't.

After the break the weather slowly improved and we knocked off another 70km or so before we stopped for lunch and a change of clothes. Tom was really pleased as he had to cycle across a huge bridge, he is not good at heights but he managed it and only cheesed off one passing motorist by refusing to move to the edge of the road.

With waterproofs removed Tim, Tom and I knocked off the last 50km in short order, although I was about knackered at the end and was grateful to arrive at camp. I quickly set up the tent to try to give it as long as possible to dry and then hit the laundry and washrooms.

Tonight we are having Lobster, we are spread betting on how much Lobster we actually get but never the less it is lobster.

There are no photos for today as I forgot my camera.

Tomorrow is a rest Day which will give me a chance to get up to date with washing and packing ready for the hectic last 9 days or so of the trip.

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 61 Atholville to Petit Rocher 60 miles

I awoke relatively warm and despite the loss of the hour the campsite was quite perky, perhaps because they knew it was only a short ride of 60 miles today.

We broke camp relatively late at about 7.45 and headed into town for a picture with a giant trout as the area and river is famous for its fly fishing.

After we left Campbelltown the route meandered along the Matapela River, it was relatively flat but there was one 13% climb, just after coffee, at the top of which we met two of last years tourists, who, surprise surprise, were not complimentary of the tour and we discussed all the same issues about food and dirt that I have already documented.

The rest of the ride was quite pleasant except for a long patch of roadworks where the road was very rough, it certainly makes your eyes water after a few Km!

About midday I finally got a mobile signal and I was able to catch up with Z.

The down side of having a signal was that I got the very bad news that my cousin Robbie had finally lost his battle with cancer and passed away this morning. I've spent a while today thinking of the good times we had as kids at Xmas ,on holiday together and how brave he was in his fight.

At times like this you feel a long way from home but I know that the family will look after Lynn and although I wont be able to get to the funeral my thoughts will be with the family on the day.

Tomorrow is our last day in this run, about 80 miles I think and then we are due a rest day on Friday.


Onwards and Upwards!

Day 60 St Damase to Atholville 90 miles

Another freezing night with a chorus of snorers and then at 5am the local chain saw gang turned up and started warming their saws up, what an absolute pleasure that was!

Having got up and grumpily got sorted I moved out of camp with Randy in a cold mist. Tom was on kitchen duty so we left him behind; we had arranged to meet Dona and Tim at the entrance but they had gone on ahead so we just hit the road.

It was damp and cold and visibility was not good which made the experience of turning onto what we would call a “B” road even more interesting as we hurtled down hills into the oblivion wondering firstly where does the road go and secondly where are the holes on the road?

After about 30 mins we caught up Don etc and thanked them in the traditional manner for waiting for us, we then cycled on together whilst they cowered full of remorse until the mist began to clear and one sock (recently renamed three socks after an official complaint) lead the way.

We stopped for a break at a McDonald's and then shortly after resuming Serge came upon us and joined our group. Serge is one of the strongest riders and I have wanted to cycle with him for some time. I plonked myself on his wheel and we made off over the horizon. The roads were rough but we were flying along compared to my usual pace and I was feeling quite good.


About 80km into the day we stopped for Blueberry Pie and then we set off on what was to be the fastest 40km I have ever ridden. Serge got us up to speed and then we just rotated the lead for 40km up and down, mostly down, the valley bottom road. It was brilliant but I had to work really hard to keep up the pace, especially uphill but it did evidence how much fitter I am today compared to 9 weeks a,go.

As we arrived in Matapedia, I was on my last legs but I had managed to cover 40km in just over an hour much faster than I have every ridden before.

We stopped for a drink, joined by Trevor, then took the last 20km of the day easy, crossing into our 7th Province of New Brunswick.

We arrived in camp early, in fact we were first in, and so I was showered and tented before many got in, useful as I was cooking again tonight, swapping with Trevor.

Dinner went well, chicken curry and as the clocks have moved froward an hour today we are about to get to bed.

A great day but my only frustration was no mobile signal and no Internet, lets hope for both tomorrow.

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 59 Trois Pistoles to St Damase 82 miles

Last night was bloody freezing! I awoke feeling a little under par and after last night curry made three visits tot eh bathroom before I felt it was safe to leave camp.

Initially the weather was better than yesterday in that the wind was not as strong and the sun was out but as the day went on it grew stronger and as we were still on the coast the wind was cold as well so I was well wrapped up but still feeling less than perky.

As sweep we leave camp last so our group plodded along but after about 30km caught the tail end riders. We heaed fort eh nearest town for breakfast and then just made our minds up that we would grind out the mileage and get to camp asap.

After about 80km we stopped for lunch at a very nice restaurant on the beach with some weird statues outside. I ahd a lovely fish dinner and it was cheap.

After lunch we just pace lined until we were within about 15km of the camp where we finally turned right and away from the head winds. However this was to signal three relatively tough climbs and one massive descent during which I hit 76km/h. It was so fast and bumpy that I was scarred to take my eyes off the road to look at my speedo, it caught me a bit by surprise after so long on the flat, I'm just glad I'd taken three visits at the camp before I left.

The hills are a signal of things to come tomorrow it is hilly all day.

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 58 Riviere Ouelle – Trois Pistoles 75 miles

The day dawned bright and sunny after a cool night, but it was not to last. After a quick breakfast Don, Kev and I left the camp and immediately realised that we had a horrid head wind to contend with and in the distance it looked like rain was coming.

We ploughed on ably assisted by Kelly and Judy but the going was tough as we only averaged 20km/h just 15km/h less than yesterday!

After a brief stop for coffee we decided to just plough on as we knew the day was going to be tough into the wind and we wanted to get as far as we could before it rained; I hadn't brought my leggings so I was particularly keen to get to camp.

We manged to get the first half done in reasonable time and then stopped for a McDonalds, only to find a Burger King just down the road!

The second half of the day was just as tough although we joined another group and so at least it made the pace line work a little easier.

When we were about 30km from camp I was convinced we were about to get soaked as the countryside to my left and upwind was disappearing under what I thought was a rain squall but as it swept up to us it turned out to be fog rolling off the sea. Whilst it made it colder at least it wasn't wet.

We ploughed on and got to camp about 4pm, I had a quick shower and set up my tent and then turned my attention to cooking. Tonight it was vegetarian curry, the only problem was there wasn't enough spices and so it was pretty weak and tasteless but in fairness the staff has gone the extra mile and bought some naan breads to go with it.

As I type this it is just easing a little wind wise but it is still cold, I fear it could be a cold night. Tomorrow we start to climb again, we are on sweep duty so we will be late off and probably late into camp, but at least we wont be cooking.

No photos today due to technical problems....I forgot to take many and they were rubbish

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 57 Quebec City to Riviere Ouelle – 86 miles

As per usual when we stay indoors there was a slow start tot he day and we only hit the road at about 8am, about an hour behind normal time.

The first few Km were along a cycle path which ran along the St Lawrence River and below the Old City, so we had some beautiful views of the Old City as we rode.

We boarded a ferry after only 10km which took us across the river to Levis; I think this is the place they named the jeans after but I may be mistaken.

From the ferry there was a cycle path that ran along the river and then slowly climbed away from the river before it finished and we were back onto normal roads. Today's route took us along Highway 132 and through some quaint little villages until we pulled over for breakfast after 50km. I had toast and cheese, it was lovely and surprising good value at only $4.


After breakfast me moved off taking advantage of a good tail wind and pretty soon we were in St Jean-Port-Joli, the home of wood carving in Quebec. As we cycled a long there were loads of little boutiques displaying their carvings and then we spotted one man actually working in his garden so we stopped and had a chat; he has so happy we had shown an interest that he gave us a tour of his workshop and then showed us how to carve a face out of a piece of wood. It was amazing to watch him in action, I have loads of photos, the face just seemed to emerge from the wood, terrific skill.

After the chat we headed into the village for lunch, another Poutine and then a gentle but long ride into camp which involved going along a crushed cinder track. The track slowed us right down and with my narrow tyres it was like being on ice, I came within inches of ahead on collision with another cyclist which got the heart rate up I can tell you.

We arrived in camp quite late, about 4.30pm and by the time I had showered and got the tent up it was dinner time.

Tomorrow is our last easy day, about 70 miles and relatively flat but then the hills are back for the next 4 days as we move into New Brunswick and towards the Cabot trail.

Onwards and Upwards!







Onwards and Upwards

Day 56 Quebec City Rest Day

Today has been somewhat frustrating from the technology point. Despite efforts I cant get my lap top to link into the internet and so I have had to scrounge access from Taso and Tom again.

After a swift breakfast Taso, Errin and I jumped on a bus and headed into the old town, it is a really beautiful place, very much like many older European cities. Sadly I forgot my camera so you will have to take my word for it.

After an hour or so shopping and eating I returned to the Uni and got up to date with my blog and emails and hope to Skype Z later today.

Tomorrow we are back on the road again, 86 miles to Riviere Ouelle, it should start to get a bit more rolling as we head out of Quebec but were all due a hill or two after nearly two weeks of the flat stuff.

Onwards and Upwards

Day 55 Trois Riviere to Quebec

After our first cool night for a while I awoke to fog and a very damp tent,breakfast was hurried as itr was cold in camp and we hit the road early.

Today I was back with “the Dogs” an irreverent group of individuals that have emerged during the trip and include Tom, Randy,Don,Tim, Kevin(the dog),one sock and myself plus the odd guest. We were named after one of our group started howling when chasing a rider and the storey has grown to such proportion that we now actually howl and bark as we overtake the slower riders,very juvenile we know but it makes us laugh on long days!

Todays start was quite quick and we soon got through Trois Riviere and on towards Quebec. After about 50km we stopped fro Toast and Coffee and I was able to catch up with Z and then we hit the road again. We were really flying as we wanted to get to Quebec as early as we could so that we could get our housework done before the rest day tomorrow.

About 20km later Don had a flat and so a couple of us stayed back with him and then we cycled on together. Todays route was flat and ran alongside the St Lawrence River. It was quite a pleasant ride and we were soon bobbing along at about 35km/h without much effort.

As we got nearer to town the road started to pitch up a little and we had a couple of gentle climbs to reintroduce us to hills after so many days on the flat.

About 110km into the ride we stopped briefly for corn on the cob, provided by two members of last years tour. Funnily enough the same topics of conversation came up as when we have met other previous tourists.

The last 30km or so into town was picturesque but at time very steep, it certainly stopped us chatting a couple of times but we rolled into the University at about 2.30pm and had a hour or so to kill so we headed for the pub.

At 4pm we checked into our rooms, which are single rooms with an extra bed forced in. By the time you get your clothes and a couple of bikes in you can hardly move.

The meal tonight was another disgrace, 4 pieces of pizza each and when I asked what was for dessert they produced an ice lolly each and 2 melons to split between 42 people. The food situation is really a joke at times its no wonder most people have overspent on the trip, if you didn't you'd starve.

After dinner most of us headed into town to see the Cirque Du Soleil show. The open air show is free 6 nights a week and it was brilliant. The gymnasts were incredible and the costumes amazing. After the show we went back to the University to the bar (cheap beer) but only had a couple before hitting the sack.

After the rest day we are into the final phase of the trip, we have 6 days riding until our next rest day some of which will be hilly and then after out last rest day we have 9 days on the trot until we finish, although one of them is a 14hr ferry ride. It's amazing to think that in just over two weeks this will all be over and I will be heading home!

Onwards and Upwards!

Day 54 Montreal to Trois Riviere

After a night on a blow up mattress in Daniel's lounge I awoke to the warmth and dry of a house and the smell of fresh coffee.

We munched our way through salmon and cream cheese bagels and eventually hit the road at about 7.30am.

We road through the Olympic park and I had my photo taken on the Gold Medal podium before we met up with J and John, who had also stayed in town, and headed out towards Trois Riviere.

There are bike paths everywhere in Montreal so the route out was not only easy but safe,after we left the Island we just stayed on the main road north until we got back onto the planned route where we would join the others who had camped about 40 km from Montreal for some unknown reason.

We stopped for lunch and I had a medium sized Poutine, which is French for chips in cheese and gravy. It was massive and I wasn't able to finish it but it was really good.

After lunch we just put our heads down and headed for camp, most of my electrical items were failing as I hadn't charged them the night before, my GPS gave up after only 39km so I was guessing a bit on my map reading today.

The camp is good, we are out in the open so no Mozzies and the showers are clean and warm, I have got the tent up and am awaiting dinner, Beef Bourginion, which will be interesting bearing in mind they are cooking it in two pans in about an hour, Lets hope for the best.

Randy has been getting some stick because he spent the day with “the Ducklings” a name given to some of the group that follow each other about like a line of ducks behind a leader and for some apparent reason I was given stick as it was alleged I had taken a truck ride from Montreal to Trois Riviere, what a weird bunch we are!

Tomorrow is another relatively easy day at only 80 miles as we head for Quebec City, but there are a couple of stiff climbs as we hit town. We have a rest day in the City on Friday so I'm looking forward to having a look around.

Onwards and Upwards

Day 53 Hudson to Montreal – 42 miles part day

Today's ride was wonderful, after a slightly delayed start due to Serge blowing his tyres up pumping them up, we moved out of camp at about 8am and were soon riding along a beautiful river bank. After a few KM we crossed a huge bridge and then got lost. It took us a couple of minutes to sort out what was happening and then we set off again stopping briefly to let those who had also got lost catch up.

About 2 hours into the day we stopped for breakfast and once again completely swamped a restaurant, I really felt for the waitress as she battled to stay on top of the orders. I ordered a full breakfast and actually got an omelette but I'm not choosy!

We moved off again and cycled along the cycle paths that run alongside the St Lawrence River, at one point we saw some people surfing on the river where the rapids create a static wave. They drop into the river just above it and then try to ride the wave, it was quite impressive and obviously more difficult than it looked although as you can imagine we gave some good advice!

Shortly after midday we got to Montreal where we split up and just did the sight seeing thing; Montreal is a beautiful place, much like some of our European cities, it has churches, plazas and many parks and pretty public areas plus of course all the Olympic buildings.

After a brief tour of the town I headed to Daniels house, via the Olympic Stadium, where I was to stay for the night, and then we did a car tour of the town and up Mont Royal to see the view of the city.. Jody, Carol, Kelly, Judy and Marie Andre joined us later and after a few beers we hit the sack.

Tomorrow is an easy day on 80 miles or so and Flat ( Imaging being able to say 80 miles is easy!)




Onwards and Upwards