Mark Turns 40

Many well wishes to Mark on recently getting over the hill. Yes, he's in the 40 and over club now. No better way to celebrate than to go for a long blast on the bikes. Myself (far right in pic) and Mark's friend Ashley (far left in pic) made a surprise visit to Mark's home in Hilgay, Norfolk.

After a good night of food, fun and drink we woke the following morning with intent to cycle to the coast (about 80 km). Before we set off, I had a play on Mark's commuting bike, a folding Dahon. Mark calls it the "clown bike". After riding it, I can see why! All it needs are some clipless pedals and tri bars. Strangely enough, people do race them!

We set off from a very windy Hilgay, Norfolk heading to the coastal town of Wells next the Sea. The wind was very strong but mercifully it was coming straight at our backs giving us a nice gentle nudge. There is nothing like a strong tail wind to give you the allusion of being an awesome cyclist. It's only when you turn around and head back into it that you realise that you actually suck.

We made a very good pace on the mostly flat landscape passing Oxburgh Hall and RAF Marham. We also stopped for a break at Castle Acre for tea and cakes. The riding was mostly easy with the exception of an off road section which resulted in us getting a bit muddy. Since we were moving so well, we also managed to stop for a pint and some grub before completing the final leg to Wells. Once in Wells, we had a quick play on the beach before heading back to Hilgay.

Chuck