​After Challenge Roth in 2016 I decided that I wanted a bigger challenge in 2017. I started to look for Ironman plus distance events and whilst supporting a friend’s team in the Double Brutal triathlon in Llanberis, found my event!
 
I had already decided that I would like to compete in two ironman distance events in 2017. Having decided on the Double Brutal as the main event I need to find an ironman distance triathlon in the UK. I am looking for something close to home, not to expensive, well organised with a relaxed atmosphere and enjoyable course. In essence a pleasant warm up to the Brutal later in the year to gauge where I am at. I may have left it a little late with the growing popularity of Ironman distance triathlon and struggle with availability on my preferred events in which case I will be trying something a bit different. Trying something different, not always getting what you want is probably good for you every once in a while…
 
This left me wondering how other people choose their events. What are the drivers people use for event selection; is it an enjoyable course, high profile event, race organiser, atmosphere, location or availability?
 
Whatever their motivations they are notching up some serious kudos… there is no such thing as an easy ironman!

​Darroch

The nice people at Time Sport have been in contact to let me know that all of their products carry a 2 year guarantee, which is good news. I was under the impression that it was a 12 month warranty so I was delighted but am now wondering what the other cycling companies are offering on frames and components?
I purchased the pedals through Wiggle who no longer sell the Time Attac XCs so it's time to look around to see who does. I wonder if Wiggle are moving away from Time products as their Time pedal range seems to have vastly reduced.
A good outcome for fans of Time pedals today... a 2 year guarantee isn't something to be sniffed at!

Running and cycling in Europe offers so many enjoyable holiday benefits that we forget about it's forthcomings... Today I was reminded of one, 'the ambush gate dog' that will always surprise the pants off you! Every time you forget about the last gate you were made to look like a startled cat, you are abruptly ejected out of your holiday runs' deepest thoughts by another pair of ankle high dogs barking well above their weight!
I have seen a lot of Europe on the bike and have yet to be bitten, but 'ambush gate dogs' will always get me and to be honest it doesn't really bother me. Mainly because I know that I can drift back into some relaxing thoughts until the next gate...

Woke up this morning to a new edition of Singletrack magazine to see an article written by my mate Rickie Cotter about her experience in New Zealand riding the Tour Aotearoa 2016. The TA is an unsupported mountain bike race/tour/ride through 3000km of NZ wilderness. I have cycled most of the route and it is breathtaking and in places brutal. Worth mentioning that Rickie smashed it in 10 days which is super impressive!

Today I am dragging myself into the digital era! As I put the website together I feel fortunate in the knowledge that Andy T (a good friend of mine) and digital expert is on his way to Bath to help me develop the website. I suspect there will be a great deal of comedy value when he inspects my first stab at WildSBR!