After over 135 miles and 11,000 feet of climbing, the team of seven from Pryers have successfully completed the Coast to Coast ride in just two days.
The first day started at 9:30am with a five mile ride just to get to the start in Whitehaven. After the obligatory dip in the Irish Sea, the team set off in search of Alston some 67 miles away. Straight away, the climb out of Whitehaven was a sign of things to come as the steep gradient caused chains to drop immediately.
The toughest climb of the day came after 50 miles; a five mile slog up Hartside Fell. The team managed to get to the top knowing that they would be rewarded with a slightly longer descent down to Alston where home-cooked food and ice cold beer awaited.
The team rested, rather than slept, in bunk beds at a cosy hostel before waking up early to tackle even more climbs in the first 30 miles of the day.
The second day started immediately with a steep climb on cobbles which ensured the legs were working although the fried breakfast did not do the team any favours. Partner, Richard Starkie, managed the seventh best time ever on this section. After five miles, a further lengthy climb took the team up to the highest point on the Coast to Coast; 2,000 feet above sea level. The views were certainly worth it.
After yet another brutal climb, this time through the village of Stanhope, the team stopped for essential re-fuelling; roast turkey and gravy baguettes. Thirty-eight miles later, all of those who started rolled into Tynemouth celebrating the fact they had just ridden from one side of the country to the other.
Pryers are fundraising for their chosen Charity of the year – the Spinal Injuries Association. If you would to donate to this very worthy cause, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/TeamPryers
