Hi
As this is my first post to the forum, I guess an introduction is in order. I'm a newish member, approaching my mid life crisis, who doesn't get down to the club runs very often as I work many weekends. When I do get down I have been riding with the 18's, although most recently I rode with the 19's and Alan and co introduced me to the joys of "through-and-off". If you do run into me at the club run you'll know me as the other Sarf Effrikan. I started off life as an mtber only 5/6 years ago and now ride about 50/50 road/mtb.
So - I am entered into next year's Etape du Tour. I have previously ridden the 07 Etape and 08 Marmotte, and I do a small number of other sportives and MTB events/rides every year. I finished the Etape (which was my first major sportive) by the skin of my teeth in a little over 11 hours. For the Marmotte I was better prepared and managed a little over 9 (but missed gold time!)
Whilst I'm never going to set the world alight I would like to prepare with a little more focus for next year and am thinking about taking on a coach for a more structured training program. Can you guys recommened a local based coach?