Coast to Coast comrades on bikes

I’ve always said there are two people you can rely on in this world – yourself and your mum, generally. Now, I’ll add a third into the mix, in the name of Ruby.

My beautiful Specialized road bike Ruby pulled through yesterday morning with no gear failure, no jitters and a comfortable as seat I didn’t even want to get off. I have become attached to her and I don’t think I’ll be sending her back.

It was D-day for Coast to Coast two-day eventers, starting with a 2km run from Kumara Beach followed by a 55km cycle for myself before my team-mate Suzanne Black took over for the unrelenting run over the Goat’s Pass to Klondyke Corner.

I was absolutely buzzing from the 7am start right to the arrival at Aickens Corner where I chucked the bib over for Black to bravely graft out the run.

After saying for weeks I wasn’t taking things that seriously, I actually surprised even myself at how competitive and excited I was in both the run and bike leg.

I don’t think 2hr 4min for the two disciplines is setting any records, but I am a little bit proud of myself for keeping up with some more seasoned athletes.

What stood out to me yesterday was the camaraderie among the riders and the courtesy when riding in that bunch.

Most made gaps and the flow really easy for beginners like me. I am just pleased to say I made it through without any mishaps.

There were some close calls for some and a few heroes out there. One serious Sally brought the house down with her language of frustration, but otherwise it was, dear I say it, a ‘‘tight knit bunch’’ to ride with.

I have a couple of shout-outs to fellow riders.

I rode off their backs and that kept me going mentally. I only know by their bib names Fitz, Leticia (what a machine) and number 3047 (what a gentleman).

People like that make all the difference for first-time Coast to Coasters like myself.

On a fitness level note, I felt I had it nailed. The hills were easy after riding to Akaroa two weeks ago and training on the glorious Port Hills and hills near Arrowtown over summer. The flats were a breeze and the gradients barely registered on the legs.

Arriving into Klondyke, you could see both the cyclists’ and runners’ endorphins were flying and it is truly something you have to do, in order to get the feeling.

I know we are only halfway through this journey, but I already feel fantastic for signing up to the Kathmandu Coast to Coast. Bring on 85km today.

❚ Olivia Caldwell is a Stuff journalist competing in the Coast to Coast for the first time.