JOGLE day 5

It was a breakthrough day, we passed the half way mark in time and more importantly in mileage, it is hard to believe as it seems we've only just left Scotland. After today's enormous 121 miles we are now actually closer to Lands End than John O'Groates, maybe spending over eight hours in the saddle was worth it after all. This was a tough day for all the riders, the wind was again not on our side and the rain "showers" seemed pretty constant at times, however the route was a little more scenic (when we could see it through the fog) and the roads seemed as smooth as a peach compared to Scotland. This is our second night at a race course, tonight we're in Aintree and I must admit the home of the Grand National makes doubles as an impressive campsite.

Having been riding with the boys for five days now the conversations are becoming more relaxed and we are all being a little more honest, a few times today that maybe went a touch too far. I have no one to blame but myself and my vocal opinion on a few clothing issues I've witnessed over the last few days. There really should be a ban on the sale of any white Lycra, especially when it covers the more private areas. This might not be such a talking point if it wasn't for a certain cycling rule, apparently cycling shorts are designed to be worn "sans" underwear, I have unfortunately, whilst cycling in a chain, had first hand confirmation that men abide by these rules. Being new to this sport I am still learning these rules and personally do not see the reason for not wearing underwear. This hasn't been an issue until today when I suddenly got a little paranoid that maybe my shorts, even though black, might be a little thin when wet. Having no girl to ask for an honest opinion the boys convinced me I was safe, that was until the chaperone loudly asked why I was not following this unwritten cycle rule, I could have died with embarrassment, especially after my earlier criticisms.