Controls :

there are 7 controls on the outward leg to Brest and 8 on the way home. This is a lot more than we are used to in Ireland, all provide sustenance for body and mind. Not all controls require brevet card stamping, the extra controls are strategically placed to ease bunching at controls. Be mindful that,prolonged stops in each control will see a lot of time slip away.

-establish a pattern of getting your paperwork done on entering the control. This may sound obvious, but tiredness can cloud judgement and simple things can slip.

– Controls cater to riders who want to sit down to eat, while also offering an express option. The express option allows you to save time and take something (a sandwich) with you. There is usually a separate stall selling sports products or these will be available at the bike shop. Be wary of over reliance on this form of nutrition, particularly if you are not familiar with it.

– Some of the controls are quite close together, it isn’t always necessary to stop and have a 4 course meal in each one. This is particularly important if you are running tight to the control times.

– Stop at shops around/ in between controls, if the spacing suits you better.

Caffeine: abstaining from caffeine for about a week before the start, will allow you to benefit from the ingestion of caffeine, when you are feeling low. This might provide you with that magic shot in the arm to help you get to the next control.

-along with the obvious ones (tea/coffee) caffeine is also found in green tea and Coke.

-excessive use of caffeine can be detrimental. A well timed cup of coffee or can of Coke may get you over the line. An over reliance can stop you in your tracks and be dangerous.

Confidence: definition of same – the belief that you have the abilities or resources to meet the demands of situations you are likely to face.

Chekhov: not sure if he was a cyclists, but he was a maestro with the quotes. Learn this one or substitute your own. Let it play through your mind or repeat aloud to yourself while cycling. This will get your mind into the correct zone to be at your best and reach your potential.

“We shall find peace. We shall hear the angels, we shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds.”