First Direct 10th Anniversary Sponsored Bike Ride

Tues 28 September 1999
Tuesday found us in First Direct Hamilton, raising more money for our good causes.  The generosity of our Scottish colleague was outstanding.

John Shipsides gave us the official send off and we pedaled our way towards Leeds .  Unfortunately only 200m out of the gate we took a wrong turn, and realised that our route started from the center of Hamilton - where the hell was Hamilton???

Finding our bearings we zoomed through the streets of Hamilton full of enthusiasm and nervous energy.

Our first day was to be a short one (just 47 miles), finishing for our first night at Beattock. 

The sky darkened as we rode south down the A74 road.  We quickly adapted to stopping every 30 minutes or so for a welcome drink and a drink.  We started on the Bounty bars for energy.

Eventually the rain started and we had the first taste of what rain is like north of the border.  The support  van piloted by Michael provided a welcome respite to the downpours.

En-route minor adjustments were made to chains and wheels.

By the time we reached Beattock we were all glad that we'd started the trip with a short run.

The huge baths and lashings of hot water at the Beattock Hotel were a welcome end to our first day.  

The hospitality at the hotel was excellent, providing us with a filling meal, a free drink, and even a donation to our charities.

Drinking the local pub dry was not a difficult task that night.

  

Mon : Tues : Wed : Thur : Fri

 

raising more cash in Hamilton


the start at Hamilton

The first of many stops

...and the rain came down

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