Bealach Mor - done

I set the target of the Bealach Moe due to the difficulty of the climbs.  This was an early test for Lanzarote.  The event didn't disappoint in the difficulty stakes.  The day before one of our riders was blown off his bike at the top of the main climb!  Fortunately on the day there was no wind, instead it rained all day - it was like cycling in a power shower.  Visibility was poor so we didn't get to enjoy the breath taking scenery until today when I travelled down the road.  I was told by the "regulars" that this was ideal weather condition - apparently the wind can make it too dangerous to complete!
I completed the 90 miles in 5 hrs 58 mins with an average speed of just over 15 mph which I was really pleased with and above the target I had set of 14 mph due to the massive climbs.  The main climb took me 51 minutes which gives you an idea of the effort required to get to the top and this is after 37 miles.  The decent can best be described as "arse clenching" and there were a number of casualties and in one case an ambulance was required.  I saw several cyclist skidding sideways on tight, steep hairpin bends and reaching the bottom was a relief.  But then you were only half way with some difficult climbs to come and tricky conditions on the road.
I had been well briefed by my cycling pals which helped tremendously and I had to dig deep towards the end as I was soaked right through and starting to get cold.  The last three miles was a quick down hill and the coffee and cake at the end seemed to make it all worthwhile.
We then headed off to a friends house that had a hot tub, sipped beer and looked out over the magnificent Loch Gairloch and towards the Cullin mountain range in Skye. Then some well earned dinner, a few more drinks and a good nights sleep.  The Bealach Mor is a great test and one of the most beautiful areas I've ever visited in Scotland.  I will be back but perhaps not on 2 wheels and no engine!
Now I am meant to be taking September off before starting my Ironman training programme in October.  I won't be sitting on my bum but I will be taking it easy.  Normal Service" will be resumed on 1 October.  Till then....