We were away early, leaving he Hotel for a short 20 mile ride to where we stopped last
night and off at 7.00ish.
With none other than the final goal in mind, all eager to reach the end.
A testing day's ride with two 760 foot climbs from sea level within 6 miles of each other, and a number of smaller climbs peppering the route.
A slow cold start, but turning to the East, the winds were behind us and helped considerably - at one stage allowing 30 mph cruises on the flat.
The weather was dry, and a quick 40 mile romp brought us to our breakfast stop - just in time joined by President and Mrs Frampton, still tasting the breakfast kedgeree from their late start.
Up and down along the coastline, Wick the next stop. Flame's cycle fell victim to a worn spindle crank, and for once Brownie could not address the problem. With the spare steed unleashed, the final 17 miles were eaten greedily.
On the outskirts, euphoric photo opportunity and then down into the finish line - 925 miles.
We were then in a queue to have our photos taken at the traditional signpost - behind three other teams. Brownie took little diplomacy in announcing 'We did it in less miles and less time.' - tiredness excusing the bluntness.
A few beers and back to Inverness for a night of celebration.
Was it good - definitely! Was it a task we would repeat? Ask us after the saddle sores recede.
A great thanks to all the support team- Kav, Bullers, Rob Moulam and Margaret Oakley, Nick and Rebeccah Kier, Alan Breteherton, Dave Parratt, Jon Lord and Brookesey, Michael and Sandra Frampton - and of course Owen Smith whose smiling mayhem fuelled visits in the evening were always welcome.
Thanks also to our sponsors, NMT crane hire, Solent Insulation and Rockwool, and the many people who have sponsored us on the website.
A final thanks to our partners for putting up with us and our mad plans - watch this space for the next event!
Keep a watch on the website for updates on BNUT and Flame's attack on the Pyrenees challenge in the Etape section of the Tour de France in July this year.
Thanks for joining the blog!!
