Its 12 hours now to the start of the race around Ireland.Im the second rider off at 20:05. The crew and I are all staying at Cathal's house in Celbridge. The crew consists of Cathal, Brian, Killa, Joe and Darcy.We will have a 4 berth camper van and the follow car.Two in the car and three up ahead in the camper van at the next time station resting and cooking food etc. We registered yesterday morning and did a load of shopping afterwards.The buzz and crack all day with the team has been great and everyone is looking forward to this big adventure.
Im delighted to be here and taking part in such an awesome event and challenge.To have the opportunity to cycle around the country with a support crew and friends is fabulous.And to be doing it for charity is brilliant.We have raised over 1500 euros and with the sponsorship cards yet to come in we are hoping we can make 2500 euros for the Jack and Jill foundation.
I really have no idea how I will do in the race.I will do my very best and of course it would be nice to finish but the race has been such a hugh success for me already.I have learned so much in training for this race over the last two years and I have had such an amazing time in doing so while training on the route and roads around Ireland,training in the Alps and Pyrenees in France and Andorra,the Sierra Nevadas in Spain,the Black Forest in Germany and Switzerland. I have met some wonderful people and made many new friends in training for this race both at home and in Europe.And I have been inspired by people's generosity,kindness and support.
I have no fears of the course as I have done my best to prepare.I would be delighted to do well in finishing the race.However,not finishing would be a humbling experience,character building and offer a chance to reflect on the experience.It would take nothing away from the amazing 2 years training for the event.In a sport like ultra cycling it is really about the journey along the way and not just the race itself.
I went for an hour cycle last nite when it got dark from Celbridge to Kilteel and back and felt really good.Im gonna have some breakfast now and go out for a spin for an hour from 0830-0930.When I come back I will help the guys load up and organise gear in the car and campervan.Most of the crew will go up to Navan in the car for the crew meeting at 14:30.I will go back to bed until 1700 and Cathal will drive me up in the campervan at 17:00 for the start at 20:05. Really looking forward ot it.Thanks to everyone who has donated to the charity and for everyone who has been so nice,friendly and supportive along the way :)
Our charity page is www.mycharity.ie/events/capperman and the race can be followed on www.racearoundireland.com
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