NEWS: This week I hit two big milestones and think that the numbers 0, 1 and 8 might be auspicious. My first £1,000 in sponsorship and my first 1,000 miles on the road this year (which is basically my first 1,000 miles ever). Hooray!!

I am quite happy being the tortoise of cycling but I realised this week that I really benefit from having someone to chase. I also hit my highest average speed (on Bobbie as I took him to his new home), which I think is purely down to having a snazzy road cyclist to chase. One who was just that tiny bit faster than I would normally push. I liked it.

Bobbie off to his new home!

Is anyone up for it? Anyone fancy cycling just that little bit faster than me around New Zealand? I upgraded my broken tent for the two man version, so you know – the gig comes with accommodation!

Who wants to be my racing hare? Paws up!

As always, I have a load more to say but I need to go to sleep as tomorrow I reunite with cycle buddies 1, 2 and 6 (and some other lovely people)… still wondering if I can claim this as #7 but I don’t think the route will constitute as new… what do you think?

I am very excited but also a little nervous as I expect to be slipping behind. Especially after quite a few casual miles today.

P.S. Anna Hughes has agreed to meet me – the author of the book I am reading. She rode 4,000 miles around the UK solo. I’m so excited! (This is all thanks to Bobbie’s new owner! Karma seems to come back around faster than imaginable!)