Melanie Hurley: Macmillan Cycletta Scotland Report

29th July 2015

Melanie Hurley is taking on every Macmillan Cycletta this year, and we’re following her throughout her adventure! In this instalment, Melanie updates us on her second event – Macmillan Cycletta Scotland.

Getting to Scotland was an adventure in itself for my third Macmillan Cycletta at Scone Palace! Having landed from a work trip to Toronto on Saturday I had to wait around for a flight to Edinburgh, get my hired car and drive to the B&B arriving at 9:30pm the day before the event. Scotland welcomed me with rain and bucket loads of it!

On arrival at Scone Palace the next morning I presented myself to John at the Wheels Cycling Centre stand to pick up my hired bike. I totally recommend this as a way forward to the stress of travelling with a bike and indeed the very little bike prep on the day was exactly what I needed given how tired I was. I also got to cycle a brand new bike!

The rain didn’t let up but the atmosphere was enthusiastic both from the riders and supporters there on the day. I choose the 100km route which is my new longest route. Despite the rain it was mainly an enjoyable ride, and there was plenty of chat along the way! The feed stops were manned with cheery individuals and hot baked potatoes from Albert Bartlett.

There were stretches of the ride where I didn’t see anyone but it was clearly marked with arrows so I never felt lost. Reflecting on the day I would have liked a team mate to cycle with as 100k in the rain makes for a long time in the saddle. The scenery was magnificent, the route excellent, the weather inclement. If anyone is thinking about doing a 100k or even the 150k route I wouldn’t do it on a whim but make sure the training has been done. This was by far the hardest cycle I have done and I had to dig deep to keep going especially the last 20k when the tiredness started kicking in!

I was very happy to see the finish line and the Macmillan Team welcoming me back. Another medal to the collection and goodie bag with a bag of spuds in it! Unfortunately I couldn’t hang around to see more of Scotland but headed straight back to the airport for the long journey home.

Only 3 more events to go, all in September, the next one up is closest to home in Loseley Park Guildford on the 6th September.

Fancy joining Melanie at Macmillan Cycletta Surrey? Whatever your cycling experience, you’ll be able to find something up your street! With 20km, 50km and 100km on offer, you’ve got no excuse not to come and enjoy the beautiful Surrey roads. Click here for more information and to enter!