Riding high with mymate Ruby

And I probably was. This week I have been clocking up the kilometres getting fit for the Coast to Coast 2018 race in early February.

I amalready converted to clipon pedals, nice lycra and, of course, Ruby.

The Ruby bike is perfect for someone starting in road cycling because she’s forgiving over bumps, has a smaller frame which allows me to sit upright unlike elite bikes, and more comfortable for the longer rides I will endure in February.

Top competitors in the Coast to Coast will be on the most aerodynamic time-trial bikes, which are great, but a bit more awkward for beginners to ride.

It’s also important to get a body geometry gear fitting when you buy a new bike. Rosey Acker at Chain Reaction demonstrated that there is more to cycling than just hopping on and pedalling.

My pelvis, sacrum and femurs were measured and, because of my short frame, the handlebars were brought closer.

Anyone who cycles would have experienced numbness in the feet on longer rides. I thought that was part of it, but no, Acker sorted that out too, by aligning the pedals with my foot bones.

Only two weeks ago I was cycling up Summit Rd from Motukarara when a couple in their early 40s passed me with ease. Slightly embarrassed, I said they made it look easy and in reply the woman said, ‘‘Nah, we just have fast bikes.’’ Perhaps there was something in that.

My Coast to Coast preparation hasn’t all been smooth sailing. This week our team ran into their first hiccup – one of the girls pulled out of the race after announcing she was pregnant.

Congratulations, but I was a member down, and who in their right mind would want to run the unforgiving 30.5km mountain course through Goat Pass with just two months’ training?

Introducing my sister-in-law, Suzanne Black. She’s of good Southland stock, and I knew she wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to challenge herself.

So back to a three-women team. We are locked in, with just enough time to spare.

Organisers announced there are only 40 entries left for the popular race. Perhaps a late Christmas present to a loved one?