Here at Balfe’s Bikes, we do not just sell bikes, we enjoy riding them. We are no different to anyone else who has slung a leg over a bike and been bitten by the bug. With a semblance of normality beginning to return the prospect of taking part in challenges, taking on an event has become a real option.
It might be difficult to envisage tackling an event with the days feeling so short and enough rain to consider taking up water sports. But, start the hard work of training and preparing now and you will reap the rewards.
We asked colleagues around the company as to their plans for 2022. Not surprisingly we got a variety of answers. We are nothing if not fans of all things two-wheeled related, so it was great to see a mix of Enduro, MTB Duathlon, RideLondon and Endurance racing. A bit of something for everyone.
For those new to cycling events, there has been huge growth in this area prior to Covid. Endurance and gravel racing are seeing a surge in interest. Add into the mix, the desire for people to find or compile their own challenges and adventure riding is growing rapidly.
Rather than just list the events our colleagues are undertaking, we thought we would bring you along as they prepare to tackle their goals. Introducing, Ed and Peter from our Buying Team, Gee – Support Team and Cav – EComm.
Ed
Ed is no stranger to pushing the boundaries. Injury has limited his opportunities and has the arrival of his daughter, but he has already got triathlons and marathons under his belt. Keen to step things up, 2022 will see him take on a middle-distance triathlon, (70.3 miles in total) along with a selection of MTB Duathlons and Triathlons.
Peter
Peter has pedigree when it comes to long-distance events. Last year he tackled and downed the Dragon Ride. Billed as the UK’s toughest sportive, it is not for the faint-hearted. This year his focus is the re-vamped RideLondon which will have an iconic finish on Tower Bridge. He is not averse to testing his MTB legs and may even squeeze in a foreign cycling holiday.
Gee
Gee has already dipped his toe in the MTB Enduro pond. He is going back to re-visit Ard Rock, an Enduro MTB event that will challenge every rider’s ability. Keeping with the Enduro theme, he will be throwing his hat into the Southern Enduro ring for good measure.
Cav
Cav has realised as he has got older, that he can manage long-distance better than short sharp speedier rides. With some long-distance events under his wheels, he, and his partner in riding will go back for a second go at the Trans Alba endurance race. There might even be time for a few Audax rides.
We will keep you up to date with their progress as they gear up for a successful 2022.
