It was hot yesterday; 28 degrees I think. So I went for a 30km ride carrying enough gear and equipment to theoretically guide 8 people around in the middle of Winter! That included tools, first aid kit, spare clothes, a rescue blanket and even a group shelter.

I also took a map, even though I knew exactly where I was and where I was going – testing myself on compass bearings mostly. Part of the plan was also to make sure I was eating and drinking correctly and generally being a model mountain biker and wannabe guide.

All in the name of conditioning and practicing for the weekend ahead.

To be continued…