Merv Wyeth

What was your reason for wanting to ride the Trafalgar Way?

Last year I cycled Lands End to John O’Groats [LEJOG] and so I was looking for another challenge. So when I discovered the Trafalgar Way [200 mile Thunderer] ride I thought I would give it a go. After all, how hard can it be?

How would you sum up your ride of the Trafalgar Way to a friend?

Really tough! The encouragement and support of the RTTW crew and my amazing ‘cycle buddy’ made it possible.

What was your most memorable part of the ride?

To be honest it all became a bit of a blur. The pit stops were brilliant; plenty of cups of tea and an avocado at Bagshot before the fast home straight to London.

What are your top 3 tips for anyone thinking of riding the Trafalgar Way

Train hard with long routes that include a few tasty climbs. Ensure your GPS device is fully charged and topped up as you go to avoid embarrassment. Find a ‘cycle buddy’ and stick with him or her.

What are your top bits of equipment or kit you wouldn’t want to ride the Trafalgar Way without?

Good lights especially for the dark Wiltshire lanes and occasional pot hole. Reflective clothing is an absolute must. Take on plenty of fluids – a two bottle strategy is strongly advised.

What bike (make and model) and chainset / cassette set up did you ride the Trafalgar Way with (if available)?

Cervelo S3