JvT Tour of NZ

About 8am Saturday morning the adrenaline kicked in, and I took off on Le Race - along with 700+ other cyclists from the Chch square to Akaroa. I took it quite seriously in the end, getting under 4 hours was the goal and am happy with a 3hr 45min time.

Learned an awful lot and it definitely prepared me in many ways for the upcoming Tour that gets underway in 11 days!!

I pushed a bit too hard and was managing cramp for the last hour. No lasting effects thankfully, and very grateful for my father Frits who waited at the HillTop Tavern to provide much needed fluids (not those type of fluids!).

I loved having all the family cheering me on, including 2 nurses who helped out at the finish line.

A lot to be grateful of just now. Firstly to my wife for supporting, sacrificing, and generally putting up with me in preparing.

Secondly to the Spinal Trust team who have been excellent to train with and motivate each other to be the best we can for the charity.

Next my parents who are an ever present support in my life, but are also coming along on the Tour throughout the South Island to help make it happen.

To everyone who is donating thank you very much for your generosity in helping out such a worthy cause.

And last of all.... to my other partner... my Orange bike! The incredible piece of kit is a heap of fun to hurl around this country of ours.

Ride on

JvT