Sunday, December 29, 2013

Good intentions (29.12.13)

Happy New Year, and welcome back to reality. It might just be me but the days and meals have all blurred into one over the last week or so. Do not get me wrong, I love the fact that everyday feels like the weekend and there is copious amounts of delicious food on offer - having said that I am not sure my body would appreciate this for long periods of time. Every year I promise myself that I will not eat too much and every year I fail... unfortunately this one was no different. It was, however, very different in another aspect; this was sadly my first Christmas with no grandparents yet on the positive side it was my first as an aunt, even if my niece at eight months old is too young to appreciate all the fuss that was made of her she certainly brought joy to all the family.
Outside of my family there was also another significant alteration to one of my holiday traditions; every year the majority of my close friends return to West Devon for the annual catch up, this hasn't changed, it was the number of people that did. Over the past twelve to fourteen months several of my friends have started to grow their own families. It was wonderful to see so many babies although from a selfish point of view it does limit any rendezvous to a short daytime window and most certainly rules out any evening drinks, maybe that part was a god send in disguise.

Monday, December 23, 2013

Dancing Christmas (TT column 22.12.13)

There are specific events that really do signify certain times of the year. I am sure you will have individual experiences that conjure emotions associated with this festive period. As I mentioned, I have well and truly embraced Christmas; but in case I hadn't two trips to Olympia Horse Show were guaranteed to put me into the spirit. There were tinsel covered ponies, Dickensian dressed dancers, Christmas carols to join in with and even Father Christmas on a sleigh; although he had swapped his reindeers for horses for the night. This horse show is not quite your run of the mill event, as well as the Christmas entertainment there are hundreds of shopping opportunities for those needing present ideas, plenty of food and drink on offer all topped off with world class riders and their horses. Oh - and how could I forget the talented dogs and their owners racing around the dog agility. Britain currently boasts the world number one and two in show jumping and a world record holder in dressage so the performances were sure to be show stopping. For me though the high point had to be the dancing, of the horse variety. Having ridden all of my life I know how much work goes into getting a horse to understand you and that is purely for jumping, but to teach a horse to dance is another matter. The Spanish riding school with their Andalusian horses put on a magnificent display as did Britain's with Charlotte Dujardin breaking another world record in the process.

As much as I love horses dancing the highlight of my week was the Strictly final, the only problem being I am not sure how to fill my Saturday nights from now on.


     

Monday, December 16, 2013

Surprised myself (TT column 16.12.13)


I am not usually one to gloat but then I am also not often one to finish tasks with such ample time to spare. It is such an exception that I feel I must share this recent accomplishment; I have finished my Christmas shopping. I expect I’ve now jinxed myself and missed out a vitally important present as well as annoying anyone who still has much of their shopping left to do. I always crave the festive period although it takes me an unusually long time to become fully absorbed into the Christmas spirit, I can’t put my finger on what has influenced this change unless it has been the copious amounts of mulled wine I seemed to have consumed recently or the regular cycle rides through tastefully decorated villages, whichever the culprit I am embracing it.

This time of year is apparently not so welcoming to cyclists. The daylight hours are short, the temperatures cooler (and not to forget the slippery roads that I recently discovered, the painful way) but there is also plenty of debris on the lanes. I suffered the consequences with a puncture last week, fortunately for my father I was not within rescuing distance from home on this occasion. Even though I am in theory adequately prepared with the correct equipment it is still hit and miss, so I owe a lot of gratitude to the kind gentleman who stopped to help me with my repair, chivalry is not dead. After a recent government survey the news that cycling is an increasingly popular sport does not surprise me. There is still a long way to go with encouraging more women to participate but the advantage of the men to women ratio does come in handy when technical problems occur.

Monday, December 9, 2013

Inspired (TT column 09.12.13)


As a sportsperson inspiration is vital. Whether it helps you get out of bed at the crack of dawn to spend a few hours slogging up and down a swimming pool or to head out for a run in the rain during the long cold winter months; somewhere in the back of your mind I am sure that there will be something or someone who has given you reason to find that drive. After London 2012 the tag line "inspire a generation" was arguably overused and a year on national sporting institutions have been reviewing the legacy left by those performances we witnessed at the home Olympics.
Athletes are expected to inspire people, young and old, although it is normally presumed that they themselves will have had someone inspire them along their journey. It is a question I have been asked by many children during school visits or had to fill in for competition profiles and something I still have to stop and think about. This is not because I struggle to find inspiration but I do struggle to name just one and the dilemma of whether it should it be a sporting hero, a family member or maybe a coach or teacher.
I am sure that all of us will have done something to inspire people throughout our lives but we may struggle to do so to the same degree as the late Nelson Mandela. I cannot begin to comprehend the lengths that the former South African president went to for his country, he was and still is an inspiration to not only his fellow countrymen but everyday people like you and me across the world. Rest in peace.
   

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Record still stands (TT column 01.12.13)


This past week there has been plenty of sporting action to watch, especially rugby. We’ve had the rugby league World Cup, the autumn internationals and a very important local derby. If you live in the north then the rugby league World Cup final on Saturday afternoon might have raised your heart rate but being a Westcountry girl watching Bath and Exeter Chiefs fight it out at the Recreation ground did far more to get my adrenaline flowing. According to the statisticians it has been over thirty years since Exeter were victorious over Bath, as close as this encounter seemed the score on the board said it all as Bath extended their unbeaten record. This fixture posed a slight moral dilemma for me; I was fortunate enough to be a guest at the match yet I was being hosted by a Bath supporter. I began with good intentions but such was my excitement at the Chiefs first (and second) try I could not contain my emotions, thankfully one can get away with this in rugby union and said host saw the funny side.

Trust is a major factor in life and it can be just as important in sport. Whether you need to trust your team mate, your horse or your equipment it can make the difference between winning and loosing. On a less drastic measure I lost some trust last Sunday. This was probably the result of me becoming too confident and trusting not only my skills but also my equipment, that being my road bicycle. It probably doesn’t come as a big surprise that I fell off again, but the circumstances were new. Now it is winter and the roads are greasy I need to understand that corners require a little more respect, I have the bruises to remind me that for at least a few weeks.

Monday, November 25, 2013

Missing the burn (TT column 25.11.13)


The bruises had just started to fade and the memories seemed to be distorted, so I entered another cyclo cross competition. After a couple of hours of actual coaching prior to my second race I thought that maybe these new skills could make a difference. Well I didn't didn't fall off but I think this was down to the less technical course rather than my actions as a rider. It is quite a new experience racing in an event that is physically demanding as well as extremely skill based; I am using these cycle races to replace my usual cross country running season although I do miss being able to give the 100% lung burning effort.  Having said that I have received some encouraging news, after many slightly inconclusive scan results my stress fracture is allowed to be tested with gentle jogging, so you never know I might still catch the end of this season.

These last few weeks I have spent a lot of time in Plymouth working with the Dame Kelly Holmes trust helping young unemployed people gain skills and confidence needed to obtain a suitable job. It has been most rewarding watching them grow throughout the course, but more importantly it has made me realise how challenging finding that dream job or any job can be. Some of these young people have degrees, some excellent vocational skills and all of them the desire to earn a living, with the course wrapping up now I do hope that local employers can benefit from what is on offer under the surface.

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Girls best friend (TT column 18.11.13)

After not attending anything that could even vaguely be classed as glamorous for far too long the opportunities have now arrived like London buses. It is still a novelty as an athlete to dig out the heels and dust off the party frock, not that I can imagine ever getting bored of such occasions. The challenge comes when you have to remember what dress you wore last year and to what awards, then again if the pictures didn’t end up printed or on Facebook you are probably safe. These last two weeks I had no need to worry, both events were new to me but more importantly I disguised my outfits. I am not a huge fan of a black plain dress, although this time it was necessary. Who would notice what I was wearing when I was shining so, no I’m not implying I was looking amazing myself, that was all thanks to the stunning diamonds I had been leant. There is always something a little unnerving about borrowing whether that be your parent’s car, a friend’s horse or a small jewellers’ diamonds, you suddenly are responsible for their valued possessions. Thankfully due to my need to share the love of “my” sparkling jewellery there was not too long a delay from the loss to the search. My stomach sank as I touched my ears to show my friend the diamond earrings; there was only one. Due to her calm methodical plan we found it, lying only inches from the car park drain, oh the relief.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Reflection (TT column 11.11.13)


This time of year involves a lot of reflection. As a result of the actions of the brave men who fought for our country we now live such privileged lives in wonderful freedom. Thank you to those who fought for our country.
It could almost seem insignificant in comparison as we move into the awards season. Although on a different scale it is always humbling and inspiring to hear the stories behind the winners. As a member of the south west judging panel for the sporting unsung hero award, I had the difficult task of helping to choose who would go through to contend for the national title. It is incredible to read the stories behind these volunteers who put hours and hours of work into helping others enjoy various sports. For every winner who is celebrated there are thousands of volunteers who help change people's lives through sport, I know I owe my sporting achievements to so many of them.

Sport continues to give me so much pleasure and last weekend was no different. I had a perfect mix of spectating and partaking, although the former was more successful. At last I found myself with a free Saturday in Devon on the same date as an Exeter Chiefs home game, it wasn't the prettiest match to watch but the final score was pleasing. The following day was another display of slightly rugged sport but this was a direct result of my lack of skill. I found myself in at the deep end or should I say deep mud, when I entered my first open cyclo cross event. I had a false sense of confidence after the novice event a few weeks earlier, although I'm glad I jumped right in as even though there is plenty of room for improvement, I loved it.

Monday, November 4, 2013

Trick or treat? (TT column 04.11.13)


It creeps up on me too quickly every year, although not literally as we live in the middle of nowhere. I think any trick or treaters would be scared themselves before even reaching our house, but it does save on the treats. As a child I saw it as one disadvantage for living on Dartmoor, I never experienced a true Halloween. I've been told it's not the done thing at my age, so the clock is now ticking until my niece is old enough to accompany me, or is that the other way around? It did seem that the local council were getting into the spirit last week although I presume it wasn't intentional; the lights in the Tavistock to Yelverton cycle path tunnel were turned off during day, I could honestly not see a thing, I'm hoping now that Halloween has passed they have resumed normal service.

This time of year often gets confusing, or maybe that is just me? It seems that fancy dress and fireworks overlap for several weeks. One thing that is for certain, it is now dark. I know we lost an hour with the clock change but somehow it seems that we've lost several hours in the evenings. I had been in denial until heading out onto Dartmoor for a fun afternoon with my mountain bike; in the rain, mud and dark I was struggling to cling onto that "fun" element.

The Halloween and Guy Fawkes celebrations have passed, the evenings are now dark and the temperatures are dropping, what do we look forward to now? Don't worry I will not mention that 'C' word just yet.




Monday, October 28, 2013

Celebration of life (TT column 29.10.13)


Last week I lost my most avid column reader.

I have always been told that life should be celebrated, so I want to take this opportunity to reflect on my loving Grandmother who passed away last Tuesday. At the impressive age of ninety, Vera Constance Maria Hutchings had experienced a hardworking life, she lost all of her teeth at a young age and survived a total of seven hip replacements, yet you never heard her complain. Due to her disabilities I have only known Granny with crutches or her wheelchair, both of which provided hours of entertainment for my sister and I when growing up. Another vivid memory I have comes from my days as a young member of Tavistock Swimming Club and the coach trips to the Saturday afternoon Galas. I remember the challenge of helping Granny onto the bus with her trusty step (that I was always slightly embarrassed to bring with us), and how she accurately recorded all of my times and calculated the overall team points tally. I think Granny was sometimes better known than me on the sporting circuit, my friends, competitors and other supporters were always pleased to see her. I know that she got a lot of pleasure from following my sporting journey, her house was pretty much a trophy cabinet as she so proudly displayed my medals.
It was not just her role as a Grandmother to six of us that she filled so brilliantly. She had several Great Grandchildren from whom she gained immense amounts of pleasure, including the latest edition, my niece Eleanor, whose christening was celebrated on Sunday.

I am concluding this with tears in my eyes but happy memories in my heart, RIP Granny Hutch.

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Blame the dog (TT column 20.10.13)


Last week I completely jinxed myself. I proudly announced the pleasant conclusion to a previous cycling incident only to open the doors to another one. As winter is apparently on its way I thought it might be time to dust the cobwebs from my sturdy mountain bike, okay this was mainly due to the allure of a potential race. With just two days to go until my first ever cyclocross event I thought I had better familiarise myself with the off road variety especially after my summer spent cycling with skinny tyres and cleated shoes. Ironically I was riding across Dartmoor thinking this must be similar to getting in a tractor after driving a Ferrari, it feels so safe and stable. There is also the added bonus of no traffic, but, yes there is a big but, there are animals. I made the error of riding a quick short stretch of downhill on the newly surfaced cycle path. The smooth Tarmac was so refreshing I couldn't resist a bit of freewheeling; I did not envisage a little 'jacket wearing' terrier to be sharing the path. Jumping out of the bushes and running straight towards me, I could have sworn it was suicidal. Luckily I just avoided a collision as it ran on completely oblivious to the fact it had caused me to land in a crumpled heap ten metres further down the path.

I call this time of year 'transition', as it is hard to know exactly what activities to do or what clothes to wear. A prime example of this was the horse racing over the weekend, with both jump and flat meeting fixtures. I accepted an invite to the conclusion of the flat season at Ascot. It's obviously ready to close as the ground was announced as soft which resulted in an open day of racing and some happy bookmakers, but thanks to the aptly named Olympic Glory I didn't contribute too greatly to their bank balances.

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

No fee and a win! (TT column 14.10.13)


As I get older it seems our legal system is gradually becoming more frustrating and unjust. I have now realised that this isn't due to the law changing but to the fact that I am becoming more aware of all it's pit falls. Compared with the USA we are reasonably laid back when it comes to pursuing claims against each other, although I'm not sure how long it's going to remain this way. A recent conversation with a friend highlighted this. After his claim had been settled for an incident with his parked vehicle his phone has not stopped ringing with the "no win, no fee" offers from personal injury lawyers - the fact that he was not in his vehicle at the time doesn't seem to be a mitigating factor.
The point that brought me to this topic was personal, I have just had a satisfying letter from my lawyer to inform me that justice has been done from a cycling incident I was involved in back in April. The case is now closed and what a relief that is. Sometimes you feel it is easier to forget and move on - I was apparently researched by the opposing legal team, and the fact that I had publicly written about previous self inflicted falls from my bicycle, implied that the accident was therefore my fault. Thankfully I have no lasting physical injuries from the incident so will not be answering any calls from dubious legal firms and will just continue to ride my bicycle with ever increased awareness.

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Time to walk (TT column 06.10.13)


At last I am allowed to walk. Yes you heard me, although I wasn't quite sure I myself had heard the Doctor correctly. I'm now moving into the testing phase for my tibial stress fracture and have been instructed to go for three, yes just three, thirty minute walks in the first week. Being naturally active I'm sure I've been exceeding this quota on a daily basis, therefore I decided to move straight onto the next phase, adding in a little jog, and so far so good. I do feel that when heading out to do a jog/walk I should be carrying dumbbells in my hands, wearing a bumbag around my waist and sporting an eighties style headband - I've always been happy to go for a walk and love a decent run but somehow for me combining them together doesn't seem natural. I'm following the protocol as I'm desperate to recover from this injury, the frustrations now will hopefully be worth it in the long term.

I gather that summer was trying to hang on a little longer at home last weekend, I was lucky to have mine truly extended as I had a short trip to Cyprus. It was a last minute request to head out to the Mediterranean island for the Biathle World Championships, unsurprisingly not to compete. It was basically an invite to talk - so no hesitation in taking up that offer - actually the job description was to act as MC for the event. This was almost a near impossible challenge, just a few days prior I picked up the first cold I have had in about a year and disastrously my voice started to disappear. Much to the organisers horror I was pretty croaky when arriving the night before, thankfully it must have been the sunshine as I made it through two days of talking pretty much continuously.

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Embracing autumn (TT column 29.09.13)


As an athlete I've always been a doer and not necessarily the most patient spectator. You might have noticed I enjoy dipping my toes in a little sailing, making the most of any spare Sunday to join the crew of a Plymouth based yacht. Having said that, for the majority of the race I might as well be a spectator as my role only lasts a minute or two per tack. This is quite the opposite to any sailor on board one of the Americas' Cup catamarans. Sailing still seems to receive too little media coverage (in my opinion) so I'm not sure whether you'll be aware of last weeks battle between the Kiwis and the Americans out in San Fransicso bay, but one thing is for certain this year most certainly made compelling viewing. It was apparently all down to our very own Sir Ben Ainslie's efforts that Team Oracle USA powered to the most incredible comeback in history. The challenge for Ainslie's future is now to secure a British team that can rival this years champions.

I've always been known to love the sun but there is still plenty to smile about as we enter the autumn. From my point of view this weekend has confirmed we are into the new season. The two affirmative factors being the change in sporting events and the return of some decent viewing to our small screens. Yes I know the rugby season has been up and running for a few weeks now, but I've just been to my first game since the summer. As for the other factor, I'm sure you have a strong idea as to what I'm referring to in particular. All I need to say is the sequin season has returned.

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Embracing Autumn (TT column 29.09.13)


As an athlete I've always been a doer and not necessarily the most patient spectator. You might have noticed I enjoy dipping my toes in a little sailing, making the most of any spare Sunday to join the crew of a Plymouth based yacht. Having said that, for the majority of the race I might as well be a spectator as my role only lasts a minute or two per tack. This is quite the opposite to any sailor on board one of the Americas' Cup catamarans. Sailing still seems to receive too little media coverage (in my opinion) so I'm not sure whether you'll be aware of last weeks battle between the Kiwis and the Americans out in San Fransicso bay, but one thing is for certain this year most certainly made compelling viewing. It was apparently all down to our very own Sir Ben Ainslie's efforts that Team Oracle USA powered to the most incredible comeback in history. The challenge for Ainslie's future is now to secure a British team that can rival this years champions.

I've always been known to love the sun but there is still plenty to smile about as we enter the autumn. From my point of view this weekend has confirmed we are into the new season. The two affirmative factors being the change in sporting events and the return of some decent viewing to our small screens. Yes I know the rugby season has been up and running for a few weeks now, but I've just been to my first game since the summer. As for the other factor, I'm sure you have a strong idea as to what I'm referring to in particular. All I need to say is the sequin season has returned.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Tour (TT column 23.09.13)


It doesn't seem a whole year ago that we witnessed the Tour of Britain flying through Tavistock, it also doesn't seem a year ago that I knew nothing of cycling. Unfortunately the route didn't pass our doorstep directly this year but from the amazing crowds seen at the Haytor finish it proved the Devon supporters were still out in force. As you can imagine I was keen to watch at least part of the Tour, only I couldn't make it to Haytor so the next best thing was a trip over the bridge to Wales. There is something contradictory with driving to spectate a cycling event; I was keen to avoid this although realised that a 130 mile round trip on my bicycle after a month of no exercise was maybe a little too ambitious. I compromised and cycled from a town just accross the border. After a few hours in the pouring rain accompanied by various debates as to where we were I was starting to wonder what I was doing, I'm glad to say the sun came out on Caerphilly Mountain just as the Tour of Britain arrived. We got double the value for our money- or our effort - as the cyclists had to climb the mountain twice, once was enough for me though.

It wasn't just in Wales that I experienced some damp cycling. After a month away I wasn't going to let the rain dampen my spirits, although maybe I should have let it influence my route. I set off towards Widecombe in the fog and wet, this wasn't a problem until I got a little disorientated, lost all phone reception and then had a dreaded puncture. I had no choice but to attempt my first ever repair, unfortunately after an unsuccessful effort I had to be rescued and am yet again indebted to my father.

Monday, September 16, 2013

Back in Blighty (TT column 16.09.13)


It is time to return to reality. After a few days of being at home I must stop comparing everything back to my holiday; the fact that the temperature has halved and the cost of an hour long Thai massage is the same as a coffee back here, will soon be forgotten. Yes I have the holiday blues and it seems that I might not be alone as I've been told that the summer is now over. It's not all depressing though, I was delighted to leave the mosquitoes behind, apparently my blood tastes far too good, okay now I'm running out of other disadvantages.

As much as I found it difficult to return home there was plenty of sport to get excited about last weekend. At a local level I was involved in the Ecover Blue Mile being held in Plymouth; it was refreshing to see so many people taking part in the various water based activities and engaging in raising awareness of ocean conservation. It was primarily aimed at participation but with the presence of two London 2012 gold medallists all of the competitions soon heated up. I must admit my role was purely land based and probably a good thing as the refreshing waters of Plymouth sound might have come as a shock after the thirty plus degrees I've become accustomed to.
Staying with the Olympic theme there were more serious events happening over the weekend and we saw the crowning of two new British World Champions in triathlon and canoeing. The wave of sporting success we saw a year ago is showing no signs of ceasing.    

Tuesday, September 10, 2013


Taiwan is a fair distance east, meaning two flights are needed to reach the Southern city of Kaohsiung. A changeover in Hong Kong was suggested by the agency and this got me thinking, how about extending this from a few hours to a few days on my return trip. After studying the world map I decided to take this idea a little further, the route looked to brush over Thailand, one phone call later and I had a flight via Bangkok with a two and a half week stopover.

I hear summer continues at home, so i hope I won't make you too envious when I mention that I am currently on a stunning Thai Island in the Gulf. I am sitting just a stones throw from the beach as I write, and ironically the internet here on this relatively undeveloped island is far stronger than that of ours in Merrivale. This has got me thinking, what business could I set up and run from here; well it's always nice to dream.

Planning has not been high on my agenda, I arrived in Bangkok and let my adventures begin. The little bit of research I managed did warn me about the current rainy season, I think the authors of these articles have never lived on Dartmoor. In nearly two weeks I have witnessed a handful of short warm showers, although I do hope I haven't jinxed the remainder of my stay. Not only am i here in the 'off season' I have also missed the infamous full moon party this month. There is no need to feel sorry for me as it is blissfully quiet and more importantly ridiculously good value.

Island life (TT column 09.09.13)


It never ceases to amaze me how small this world can be, and when travelling this is often exaggerated. Not being a city girl, one day in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok was enough for me so I headed south west to the Gulf islands. My first stop was the most developed island of the three, Koh Samui. I arrived with no prior knowledge of this island, just a few recommendations I'd picked up on my long journey there. As I previously mentioned the internet is impressively efficient so I logged on to share my location with friends; only an hour after arriving I had discovered that someone's brother lived on this island and was keen to show me the sights. You can never beat a bit of inside local knowledge, we were soon off to the eye opening food markets, the clearest beaches and the hippest bars.

As much as I was craving a relaxed beach holiday I also need an amount of adventure so I headed on to discover another two islands. After plenty of time to relax - even though I seem to have the ability to switch off automatically - it was time to make the most of what this part of the world can offer. As you probably know by now I'm always looking for a new challenge so the sport of Muay Thai seemed an obvious choice. I've never attempted any martial arts - the closest comparison I have would be fencing - so it was a completely new concept and one that I thoroughly enjoyed despite the consequential bruises. The other activity I enrolled on is more commonly associated with holidaying on a Thai island. I headed to the sea for the far more relaxing 'sport' of scuba diving and enjoyed the underwater wonders the Gulf has to offer.

Sunday, September 1, 2013

On my way home (TT column 02.09.13)


Taiwan is a fair distance east, meaning two flights are needed to reach the Southern city of Kaohsiung. A changeover in Hong Kong was suggested by the agency and this got me thinking, how about extending this from a few hours to a few days on my return trip. After studying the world map I decided to take this idea a little further, the route looked to brush over Thailand, one phone call later and I had a flight via Bangkok with a two and a half week stopover.

I hear summer continues at home, so i hope I won't make you too envious when I mention that I am currently on a stunning Thai Island in the Gulf. I am sitting just a stones throw from the beach as I write, and ironically the internet here on this relatively undeveloped island is far stronger than that of ours in Merrivale. This has got me thinking, what business could I set up and run from here; well it's always nice to dream.

Planning has not been high on my agenda, I arrived in Bangkok and let my adventures begin. The little bit of research I managed did warn me about the current rainy season, I think the authors of these articles have never lived on Dartmoor. In nearly two weeks I have witnessed a handful of short warm showers, although I do hope I haven't jinxed the remainder of my stay. Not only am i here in the 'off season' I have also missed the infamous full moon party this month. There is no need to feel sorry for me as it is blissfully quiet and more importantly ridiculously good value.

Saturday, August 24, 2013

Taiwan (TT column 25.08.13)


Did I mention last week that any routine might have gone out of the window? Well if it hadn't then it certainly has now, although this time I have the valid excuse of a seven hour time difference. I'm writing this whilst sat in my hotel room on the thirtieth floor listening to the intermittent creaking as the building resists the strong typhoon winds it's being subjected to. I have travelled east to Taiwan for the senior Modern Pentathlon World Championships where these extreme weather conditions are nothing unusual for these parts of Asia in August.

You might have noticed that my season has been rather void of modern pentathlon competitions and I've filled a lot of this extra time with my new found love, cycling. Whether competing in full pentathlon competitions or not I have always loved to run so these past few months have been painfully frustrating for me after I was diagnosed with a stress fracture in my shin. I won't bore you with the details but it basically means I must not put impact through that leg, thankfully cycling is not detrimental to its healing and I've therefore managed to maintain sanity.

That probably leaves you asking what am I doing at the world championships; I was invited out here to Taiwan as part of the commentary team for the host broadcaster. Due to the weather conditions this competition has been so interrupted I haven't been envious of those competing. Things were looking very bleak on the women's final day when the torrential tropical rain showed no sign of ceasing, the only option was to postpone the whole event and return the following day for the riding and combined phases. Thankfully the strong winds and high temperatures dried the ground sufficiently and there was a competition to commentate on.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Ready steady chop (TT column 18.08.13)


As a result of a couple of midweek weddings added to journeys between London, home, Bath, Leeds and Manchester any routine has gone out the window. Other than the amount of time spent on the road - which annoyingly trebles this time of year thanks to the SW being such a popular tourist destination -  I am not complaining, it has been action packed with fun.

The journey back home was not initially in the plan until I had an offer I couldn't refuse, the fact it involved food made it an easy decision. I was flattered to be invited to participate in Plymouths' Flavour Fest as a guest on their version of Ready Steady Cook. It wasn't until after I'd signed up that I discovered my opponent has been an actual food critic in the past, luckily though it came down to the impressive skills of the celebratory chefs the Tanner brothers. I was soon given the role of assistant although James Tanner's reaction to some of my 'dicing' (he politely referred to the finished product as chopped) hinted that I might have actually hindered rather than helped with the amazing final dishes. I was given a slight chance to redeem myself in a second round in which I and fellow guest had the challenge of arranging one dish, something I felt a little more skilled at. Decorating the plates and making delicious looking food was one thing, the most important part though was the tasting and that was by far my greatest input.

I made the mistake of heading north on Saturday afternoon, if you have the choice never do that during the summer holiday season. Sat in static traffic on the M5 I was wondering what I was doing but it was all worth it as I got to compete in a triathlon. Okay I had better admit it was just one third as I did the cycle leg for the bbc five live team, but I am certainly keen to do a full one soon.

Monday, August 12, 2013

The season of summer (TT column 12.08.13)


We are still in the first half of August, that's the peak of summer isn't it? When it comes to sport though, summer is already on the way out; the men's and women's Ashes have only one game remaining and the World Athletics Championships have less than a week until their conclusion. On a more personal level it seems cycling follows a similar timetable with the final Okehampton time trial taking place last week, I decided i couldn't wait until next year so bit the bullet and entered my first competitive cycling event. I just wish I'd got involved earlier as there was nothing to be intimidated by, you are only competing against yourself and it really is open to all levels of road cyclists.

Many of us might be disappointed at the ending of the summer sporting Calender but the majority of the UK's population will be excited that some new seasons are already in full swing. It does seem that if you blink you miss the break that football apparently takes, however I am sure many would disagree with me. Personally I am always more excited to see the return of the rugby season with the warm up games are just around the corner, although I do think October is a more appropriate time of year.

Outside of sport there are other events that define summer for me and over recent years that has been weddings. This last week has been no exception with invites to two separate occasions within just five days. Weekday weddings might still be unusual but with one on Friday followed by another on Tuesday I seem to getting well practised, although now i have no idea what day of the week it is.

Monday, August 5, 2013

Summer fruits (TT column 05.08.13)


There are many reasons I love living in the countryside and they are highlighted in the summer. This time of year the hedgerows and gardens are resplendent but they don't just paint a pretty picture, many of the flowers and fruit can be foraged. We do often have to wait a week or too longer than our neighbours further east for blossoms to develop, this gave me time make the most of the Elderflower crop. Being my first time experimenting with the flowers I stuck with producing cordial, my mother however has been more adventurous and attempted to follow the champagne recipe. I think I made the wiser decision as currently out of the six original bottles of elderflower champagne only three remain, something along the processing line has not quite worked as the bottles are exploding one by one.
I think my parents might disagree when I describe finding fruit and veg in the garden as foraging, but surely if you pick it then you have earned the right to eat it? Unfortunately they haven't made the same mistake as a few years ago when choosing to holiday just as the strawberries ripened perfectly, I might have to share them now but I have certainly marked this time of year in my diary to ensure I will be at home.  

As a Pisces I have always loved the water and living where we do we have the luxury to choose between the two coasts that border our county, it isn't just the direction I struggle to decide on but also which activity. This week I sampled both, heading south for a sail in Plymouth Sound and then north for a surf at Porthtowan. I am not skilled in either sport but that does not detract from the enjoyment I have when either on or in the sea.

Monday, July 29, 2013

Deep end (TT column 29.07.13)


Listening to my radio Devon "legacy" pieces last week it would be understandable if you were left still wanting more evidence on what the London Olympics have done for us. There have been numerous local and national reviews carried out for the first anniversary and all seem to have different conclusions. I want to believe London 2012 has inspired our nation, but the only thing I can be sure of is that it's inspired me. As a multi sport athlete I'm used to training for many different sports and from previous columns you'll be aware of my recent introduction to road cycling. Obviously as an athlete I'm competitive so it's only natural to be interested in the world of cycle racing, although it appears to not be as straight forward as I might have first thought. I'm used to running races where you purely enter through your club, turn up and run as hard as you can, that's not quite so for cycling. Resisting jumping in at the deep end I actually watched a local road race at Brentor on Sunday, although I'm not sure that has necessarily encouraged me.
Last week, all in the name of charity I was left without a choice and had to jump straight into the deep end with a different sport. I'm using the word "sport" rather loosely as my performance on the cricket pitch was more likened to a comedy sketch. This was the first time I'd ever held a cricket bat or "thrown" a cricket ball - yes my attempts at bowling were more successful when I resorted to throwing as opposed to bowling. The only previous involvement I'd had in cricket was sitting in the stands drinking Pimms and basking in the sunshine; I'll now be watching the next match of the Ashes series with a new found interest and respect.

Monday, July 22, 2013

Proud to be British (TT column 22.07.13)


The summer continues. Is it really british of me to think this is purely a phase of good fortune or should we actually believe that the we can have a sunny summer and more importantly can dominate in world sport? Two thousand and thirteen was dubbed to be the hangover year that would follow the Olympic Games buzz, how wrong could we be, the sporting triumphs are showing no sign of easing just yet.
This has been the first year that I've watched the Tour De France, admittedly partly due to my new found love for cycling but also to witness a Brit as the favourite actually come out and exceed all expectations. Chris Frome's stirling performance to win the Tour has meant that GB retain the yellow jersey for the second year running, it is hard to believe that thirteen months ago no British man had won it in the whole 98 years of the race's history.

Another competition that according to history we are not "supposed" to win is the Ashes, I don't want to jinx anything but the two victories for England so far have been more than convincing. I remember growing up thinking how I would love to be Australian, not just for their climate but for their record in sport, how things have changed, okay maybe I'm getting a little ahead of myself now but we should bask in this glory whilst it lasts.

It's a shame that golf couldn't be added to last weekends sporting celebrations but there are plenty of other happy memories to reflect on at the moment. Tomorrow marks the year anniversary from the start of the Olympic Games, if you haven't already this week then you can tune into Radio Devon's breakfast show to hear me speaking to our local athletes about their experiences last summer.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

London buses (TT column 15.07.13)


My week has been rather comparable to London buses, you wait a while then they all arrive at once. The first instance I can't say I was waiting in hope but knew it was not going to be far around the corner. I've been a little lax with my bicycle maintenance but luckily got away with it for over 2.5 thousand miles, it seems that luck has ended. After having various new parts, a service and other necessary tweaks I was ready to hit the roads again so headed off on a few longer routes. It was on the way home from a trip to Crackington Haven that I commented how my bicycle felt rather "wobbly" and this wasn't due to my limited riding skills this time, it was eventually diagnosed as a slow puncture (my first). Due to my slight lack of preparation I am still without a pump but thankfully a kind member of Tavistock Wheelers refilled my tyre. Being a slow puncture so close to home it wasn't worth repairing so after another refill in Tavistock I was hoping to make it home. Unfortunately this was unsuccessful but as a result I was kindly rescued by my parents and also avoided the nasty climb back home. It was only my first ride after this incident - fitted with a new tyre -  when it all happened again, this time a little more dramatic with a blow out just two minutes down the road.
Items in need of repair do not end there, recently my Hoover, toaster, handbag, sunglasses and shoes have all given up - it must be all that walking and cleaning I do.
On a more positive note I have had a sudden influx of invites, I am guessing it is perfect party weather. The only problem being the order of events split between home, Bath and London have involved far too much time sat in my car in the baking sunshine.

Monday, July 8, 2013

Sporting Dominance (TT column 08.07.13)


This Mediterranean climate we are experiencing seems almost too good to be true, but as a proud Briton the weather is not all that has exceeded mine and the nations wildest expectations; I doubt I'm alone as I continue to digest the weekend of sheer sporting excellence produced by our British athletes.

The most obvious triumph is the crowning of Andy Murray as Wimbledon Champion - just to write that gives me goosebumps - I am genuinely still lost for words to describe that tremendous feat.

After Sundays action it might already seem weeks ago, but it was only the day prior to the Wimbledon final that we were celebrating British success down under as the Lions triumphed against the Wallabies in their final test match. For this I managed to make another exception to my rule of "do sport don't just watch sport", I overcame it with the perfect excuse for a cycle - to my friends house to "share" their satellite subscription. I did not expect such an exciting climax to the test series, it certainly made that trip on the bike worthwhile.

In the past our nation hasn't always been viewed as the strongest across such a variety of sports but just one year after hosting the most incredible Olympic Games we could almost be accused of becoming mildly complacent. With all of the excitement in Sydney and Wimbledon the worlds largest cycle race has momentarily taken a back seat in the press. Yes we (Britain) won it last year but the fact (at time of writing) a Brit is already wearing the yellow jersey is surely still quite incredible?

Three huge sporting results and you are probably thinking that must be all, but no, over the weekend we saw two GB champions in the World Triathlon Series, more Gold medals at the European Boxing Championships plus medals in Canoeing and Windsurfing. We are a fortunate generation to be witnessing such an exciting change in British sport.


Summer's here (TT column 30.06.13)


Summer has arrived and no I'm not referring to the weather; right now the list of gripping international sporting events are endless. We have had the glamour of Royal Ascot which saw the Queen receive her first ever winners trophy at that meeting, the smile on the monarchs face said it all. It was then straight over to SW19 where Wimbledon got underway, the hopes of the nation may still be on Andy Murray but there is some exciting new home talent shining through in the form of the young Laura Robson. To fill the gap on the Sunday away from the grass courts there was the strategically placed British Grandprix providing plenty of excitement from the Silverstone track, just not quite a British podium finish. It doesn't end yet, yes you could be forgiven for missing it in this frenzy of sport but there was action on a different version of a track up in Birmingham where our athletes were in impressive form. It was the Diamond League meeting and again golden boy Mo Farah did not disappoint as he cruised to victory.

The list doesn't even end there or on our British shores. The largest competition in the annual cycling Calender had an eventful start, over in Europe the opening day of the Tour De France saw its fair share of crashes and even an incident with a bus when it became stuck on the finish line. Further afield in the Southern Hemisphere it is all about the rugby where the result is currently one victory a piece for our British Lions against the Aussies.

I won't deny I have been incredibly envious of any spectators at any of these events, however I have managed to console myself thanks to the brilliant television coverage. The only problem is that I've been brought up to make the most of outdoors, for me doing sport still beats watching it.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Cycling crazy (TT column 24.06.13)


When you or a close friend or family buy a different make of car it suddenly seems they are more commonly around, obviously this isn't so, you are just more aware of that type of vehicle - I liken my increase in awareness of cycle events to this theory. Over the last few weeks I have been aware of races, open days, sportive events and general cycle route promotions in all parts of the country.
In just this past week the southwest has had cycle related events in abundance. Unfortunately I wasn't there to join in with Wednesdays activities but thanks to fellow a Olympic Modern Pentathlete my Mountain bike did make an appearance alongside our most famous cycling Olympian Sir Chris Hoy as he stopped in Bath on his promotional tour.
Our local club Tavistock wheelers have been busy; during the week they held time trial events before hosting a women's Breeze event on Saturday. As a natural competitor I am keen to attempt a time trial but must admit I am a little intimidated, so far for me cycling has been purely social, I am not sure my cycling skills are developed enough for an actual race. The Breeze event was a perfect opportunity for women less confident on a bicycle, again I wasn't able to attend but my mountain bike did, this time my mother ventured out on it.
Suffering from major withdrawal symptoms after my big nine day challenge i didn't survive long off my bicycle, just one day later I was out for a four hour ride. I had a good excuse to cycle as I was car-less for a few days and with the sun shining cycling was the perfect mode of transport.
I topped up my mileage significantly over the weekend when partaking in "BikeBath", another participation event. Long before my John O'Groates to Lands End ride I was caught at a weak moment and agreed to help promote this event, part of which included joining in. Unable to do things by half I considered the only option for me was the "gladiator", a hundred miles both days - I forgot this was going to be only five days after cycling one thousand miles. I had started to think this was maybe a little ambitious and my friends certainly thought I'd "lost it", but it turned out to be just what I needed. Despite the weather not playing ball I found both rides thoroughly enjoyable; there were several pit stops, wonderful routes and a good mix of people.
Bath is often thought of as having taxing hills but being brought up on Dartmoor I can assure you they are best described as mounds in comparison. My double one hundred might sound taxing but knowing the climbs our area has to offer it is hats off to all who completed the arduous Dartmoor Classic on Sunday.
My rehabilitation process back into the real world is continuing, after last night I might need to focus a little harder. Lycra in the cycling community is the norm, I am not sure this quite stretches to a bar or restaurant, I did however push this rule slightly. Stopping for a social drink on the way home that then lead on to food it was easy to forget how bizarre my appearance might seem to fellow diners, I think it is time exchange my cleat shoes for a pair of heals.

Monday, June 17, 2013

It's all over (TT column 17.06.13)


I can not believe it's over, I have cycled 982 miles from John O'Groates to Lands End. It's already difficult to remember the finish let alone the nine days earlier when we apprehensively arrived at our first base camp in the north of Scotland. It has turned out to be a trip of a lifetime, I never expected to enjoy any of it and all I could hope for was reaching Lands End in one piece, after day one I soon realised it was all going to end far too soon.

I've spent months at a time travelling in developing countries and endless trips abroad for competitions but even then I still seem to have a pretty clear idea of what is happening in the world and with my friends and family; so it is difficult to explain but I don't think I have ever been so far detached from the "real" world as I was on this event. The lack of phone reception along our remote routes did add to this but it was basically due to the bubble that was created. We had a fairly strict routine which involved a 5am wake up call with a motivational song; I am not sure I shared the sense of humour when "I want to ride my bicycle" was blasted out over the speakers. It was then head down to eat enough breakfast to fuel for the ride ahead, pack up the tent, dress into the appropriate layers of lycra, fill my pockets with any provisions needed and collect my bike before meeting my team on the start line. Each pit stop plus the evening involved a routine and although we would usually arrive by late afternoon the time flew, admittedly a lot of this was spent either eating or reminiscing on our ride so far. I need to now dramatically reduce my food consumption but think I'll continue to reminisce for a while longer.

Panic time (TT column 09.06.13)


I have always been guilty being a last minute type of girl, whether it was revising for exams, writing to meet deadlines or leaving my house to reach somewhere. In the past this system has worked for me, unfortunately I am not so sure it carries over to cycle training. After having four days out of the country I missed valuable preparation time for my big cycle ride. My whole cycling affair has been last minute but this time not out of choice as I only signed up to cycle from John O'Groates to Landsend at the end of April. I had promised myself to do at least one ride taking me into the triple digits and possibly even a ride from Bath to home, worryingly neither happened. On returning from Russia I crammed in two decent rides which probably only succeeded in making me feel slightly reassured mentally but with no effect physically at this late stage. Luckily however it did show up a mechanical problem that resulted in my back wheel being rebuilt before sending my bike on its journey to the north of Scotland where I joined it on Friday.

All preparation or lack of it has now been forgotten, the challenge has begun. I am currently working my way down through Scotland where we have been spoilt with the most magnificent weather and stunning views. The combination of a breathtaking route combined with such varied yet entertaining company has so far distracted me from the incredible discomfort that comes from sitting on a small hard pointed road bike saddle for a hundred odd miles every day. I will be passing through Devon on Saturday and would appreciate any other distractions so please feel free to check out the route and give me a wave whilst I grind my way up our wonderful hills.

   http://www.rideacrossbritain.com/live-event-page/?utm_source=DELOITTE+RAB+RIDERS&utm_campaign=d5ee55f64f-REV_Reg_Interests_Shard_promo2_13_2013&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_c03f1e9707-d5ee55f64f-348924601

Russia (TT column 03.06.13)


I always love an adventure, or so I thought. When given the last minute opportunity to "pop" over to Russia for some commentary work I jumped at the chance, that was before I thought about logistics. I was only invited on Tuesday with the broadcast company hoping to have me at the event by Friday.
For most European countries this should be straight forward, however Russia certainly doesn't come under that label. It just happened that I had a trip to London anyway so with a letter from the Russian hotel I headed to the visa office. After the warnings I'd received I was prepared to be waiting all day so was pleasantly surprised when my application was submitted promptly.
The next problem was the collection of my acquired visa as it would not be ready until the end of the following day. I decided to risk things, I headed home for a day before travelling up to London the night before planning to pick it up first thing on the way to Heathrow. I hadn't bargained on several other people having the same idea, my stomach sank when reaching the visa office twenty minutes before it opened to find a queue down the street. Thankfully for Russian efficiency I was back on the road running across the city to make my flight.
It seemed things were on my side, my flight was delayed. This moment of relief didn't last long as I soon discovered that i had no ticket for my connecting flight which even if I did there was no way of making on time. Not sure how logical a decision it was but I boarded my flight to Moscow, on arrival after many phone calls a second ticket was issued however apparently there were no more flights to my destination of Nizhny Novgorod for two days. It turned out that if I made the train, metro, then train journey across Moscow with my luggage I might catch the final flight that night from a different airport. The adventure didn't end there but thankfully my journey did

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Reproduction (TT column 28.05.13)


I always knew that the May is a sensible month for animals to be born, on the whole the weather is improving, the daylight hours are long and there is plenty of nutrition in the land.  I have started to think that we as humans must feel the same - or otherwise there is really not much else going on in August - as this month has been full of births or thirtieth birthday parties.
There must be a lot of bonuses to having a birthday now but I had forgotten the inconvenience of turning eighteen or maybe twenty one for many of my friends, May is slap bang in the middle of exams. I remember always procrastinating over my revision as I would do anything to be outdoors during the day light hours, at this time of year that doesn't leave much time for studying. It is a recent deadline I've had myself that reminded me of the stresses of exams. As an athlete I am not used to having deadlines as such so the last couple of weeks having to spend all my daylight hours indoors has been a challenge. This was all in aid of a radio Devon documentary I have been producing, you not might not have heard that I was a trained producer, that would be because I am far from it. This experience has been a steep learning curve and I am now waiting to hear if it is anything along the lines of what the editor was hoping for, if you hear my voice on the radio sometime in the near future then you know I have succeeded.

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com Heather Fell

Cake (TT column 20.05.13)


Chocolate, ginger, fruit, lemon, coffee and carrot; I have recently sampled them all in abundance, in the form of cake. I've been brought up on the stuff - no that sounds a little extreme - i mean I've been brought up in a house that always has a home made cake "on the go". Some might say the Brits' are known for drinking tea, the Fells' however are known for eating cake. Growing up not even liking tea i didn't have much choice, although thankfully I was also encouraged to do plenty of sport.
This weekend I managed to combine the two perfectly, whilst also raising money for charity by hosting the coffee break for the Tavistock Wheelers Sunday morning ride. I do still have a challenge; in just over two weeks time I need to have raised several more pounds but also be fit enough to cycle one hundred and six miles a day for nine days straight. Cake might be the solution for the financial aspect but I think I might need to refrain from joining in on the sampling as instead of fuelling me up the hills it could well end up weighing me down.
I was amazed at how much a bit of cake can make for charity but it is not a touch on football it seems. I was honoured to be asked to present the highly competitive Sonrise cup to the winning team of Tavistock Tyres. That was just the finale of a huge fundraising effort for the local charity, it is just a shame I wasn't brought up on football.

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com Heather Fell



Tuesday, May 14, 2013

New life (TT column 13.05.13)


Spring is the season for new life, with lambs skipping around the fields, newly born foals finding their legs on the moor, and hedgerows full of blossom. Having been brought up on a farm that has bread all sorts of animals I know this is the best time of year for a new born, it seems my sister learnt this as well, last week I became a proud Aunt. My sister has always been a stickler for being on time (that was not an influence from the rest of our family), so in some ways when Megan gave birth to baby Eleanor a day early it was no big surprise. I am not exactly sure what Aunt duties entail at this stage as I am not going to be volunteering to get involved in any nappy activities, but surely it won't be long before I can take her riding or shoe shopping?

This time of year also seems to be popular for sports awards evenings. I have had the pleasure of attending two, one at either end of the glitz and glamour scale. The first event in London hosted thousands of people and I'm sure cost thousands of pounds compared to a far more "intimate" celebration in Devon; the latter being far closer to my heart and proving what talent and local support we have in our county. It was also great to see one of the awards received by a Tavistock based charity.

It might seem I had let my cycling adventures take a back burner recently but that is only because I am struggling to admit to myself let alone the world the scale of the challenge I have just signed up for.
If you are interested in discovering what I will be doing then please feel free to follow this link:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/HeatherFell



Saturday, May 11, 2013

Sport meets fashion (written for AddVictor)


Is there room for fashion in sport or sport in fashion?
In the past athletes might have been labelled as a tracksuit loving, high-heel phobic, fashion clueless group, I think it is safe to say that that myth has well and truly been dispelled in the last twelve months. I am obviously referring to the female sporting population, men in sport have had a much stronger and established relationship with the fashion industry.

The natural human instinct of thinking the grass is always greener is quite possibly responsible for my love of fashion. Having been brought up in sport or should I say in a  tracksuit I have come to jump at the opportunity to throw off my trainers and replace them with a sexy stiletto heel. My athlete friends and I spend hours discussing how we yearn to slip on a figure hugging pencil skirt with a feminine blouse and head to work looking groomed and professional. My wardrobe has several barely worn structured day dresses, smart blazers and flattering tailored trousers that I purchased for their pure beauty before reminding myself that if I am lucky I might find a just couple of suitable occasions per year.

From a purely Olympic view fashion has certainly been embraced by sport, a prime example being the collaboration of Stella McCartney with adidas for the striking design of the TeamGB kit. This initiated debates from the critics questioning the need for such a dramatic change to the traditional Great Britain kit but was answered by the majority of female athletes embracing the new cut and designs, quoting the positive effect that looking good and feeling good has on their performance.

There are numerous examples in recent years beyond the Olympics where sport has been affected or influenced by fashion. However I believe this is incomparable when reversed, the effects that specific sporting outfits have had on fashion over the centuries is far stronger. A perfect display of this was the award winning "Sport in Fashion" exhibition held at the Bath fashion museum last year. The samples of high end fashion combined with professional sporting outfits arranged alongside each other demonstrated this relationship perfectly.

The strong influence of horse riding reflected in the dominant fashion houses such as Dior and Chanel is visible season after season. This is filtering through to high street and in recent years there has been a resurgence of the sport lux look which does not seem to be disappearing any time soon.

I see the building of relationships between sport and fashion as positive and exciting and I will never pass on an opportunity to swap my trainers for a pair of heels (unless on the track) or spend the day wearing make up as opposed to the bedraggled "just-out-of-the-pool" look. However I am cautious not to step over the line between sport and fashion. This fear stems from a clear memory I have of asking my mother "why is the lady wearing jodhpurs and riding boots in the town?" which as an athlete is one look too close to home for me.

Bath is celebrating the third year of its fashion week starting today with catwalk shows, talks, films and exhibitions. I am delighted to be involved once more and have spent many hours during my long hard training sessions planning my outfits, no prizes for guessing I will be steering away from the sport lux look this season.

A "typical" day


It is a question I am asked regularly and still struggle to answer; when training for a multidiscipline event such as Modern Pentathlon no two training days are identical. To help me describe a typical day I have taken a snapshot from my training diary. Admittedly this is one of my tougher and more action packed days as I have to say I thought it would look more impressive.

I have chosen a fairly typical Monday in February when training at the National Performance centre in Bath. This day involved five separate training sessions and was actually free from the usual Physio or massage appointment. I was well recovered at the start of this week after a fairly light weekend in which I just ran on both days but had no competitions or much travelling to do.

I always start my day with a bowl of porridge usually topped with fruit and nuts to add nutrients, washed down with a cup of green tea. I used to be incredibly poor at digesting my breakfast before training but my love of sleep is too strong and now I get up as late as possible.

I drove the ten minutes to the University where the training centre is based and where I stayed for the majority of the day. Having met up with a few of my fellow athletes we set out on a steady 40-50 minute run which as usual we used as a great chance to catch up on the weekend gossip. It was straight into the pool at 10.30am for about a 90' session in which we covered close to 4 kilometres involving a lot of arms only work.

After an aerobic based morning I am usually pretty hungry and I am not alone. The whole squad will jump out of the pool and head up to the cafe on site for a healthy yet substantial lunch. For me this usually consists of a chicken breast and various salads including carbohydrates such as couscous or pasta. Lunch for the squad is usually pretty social and it is time to mix with a few of the athletes from other sports that also train at the university. If I do not have time to head home I regularly pop into the athletes lounge area and put my head down on the sofa for a power nap, the combination of swimming followed by lunch seems to be the perfect recipe for sleep.

This particular Monday involved a meeting unrelated to Pentathlon just a short distance from Bath, however it tied in well as I had to drive in that direction for my riding lesson. Riding is the one sport for which we have to travel, it is only a short 30' drive to the venue where our instructor is based with her horses. My lesson consisted of one to one instruction on a horse called Gucci which despite battling the snowy conditions it was an hour well spent.

I found myself with a spare thirty minutes which I used to drop into my friends house on my journey back from riding, an ideal opportunity to warm up over a cup of tea. I returned to the training centre in time to fit in an individual shooting session on the indoor range. Although our shooting is now combined with running it is still essential to focus on the pure shooting skill.

The final session of the day was a two hour group fence. This included a structured warm up including stretching which was followed by specific footwork exercise. It was then time to kit up and enter into a poole format in which we all fenced each other including the boys.

This day was not a particularly demanding in terms of the intensity of the sessions but it was long in duration as I returned to my flat over eleven hours after I left. Obviously this was just a snapshot and some days will include gym sessions, physiotherapy, massage, nutrition meetings, combined event training, individual fencing lessons and more intense physical sessions which explains the difficulty I have in describing a "typical day".

Badminton Horse Trials (TT column 06/05/13)


Did that Bank Holiday weekend really just happen or did I imagine that there was glorious sunshine for all three days? I'm aware that I am still yet to appreciate the full meaning of these extra holidays in the British Calender as there is not a significant difference for an athlete. However I certainly did make the most of the start of our summer - apologies if I have just jinked the weather for the next few months.
For as long as I can remember I've got excited about Badminton horse trials and over the last few years I've managed to attend most of them. 2012 was an unfortunate exception and hard to comprehend right now as it was cancelled last minute due to water logging.  For those unaware of Badminton it is the Olympic sport of three day eventing which has similar kudos to Wimbledon for tennis or the Masters for golf. With commentators describing the Olympic, European and World Champion Micheal Jung as missing the elusive title it gives a clear example of how significant this competition is.
I often mention how unknown the riding part of modern pentathlon can be partly because we will be riding an 'unknown' horse but basically because it simply involves a horse.
To have your horse on the start line of a big event such as Badminton is an achievement in itself so to be in the lead after the first two events with just the show jumping remaining is an impressive feat. This was the position the reigning Olympic Champion found himself in until the final fence of the whole competition when the incredibly 'expensive' pole rolled out of its cups. Anyone watching the nail biting climax would struggle not to feel for Micheal but sport is a game and it is the game that gets us hooked whether watching or partaking.
As long as the British weather behaves there is always next year.

And again! (TT column 29/04/13)


I was once told one must fall off at least eleven times before being classed as a rider. I think this was most probably by my mother when I'd fallen off my pony for the tenth time. Unfortunately once I reached that magic number I continued to rack up a few more just at a slower rate; most importantly I was officially a "rider" by then.
When I began the new sport of road cycling I was not aware of any such "rules", although I was warned cycling with cleats could lead to the odd gentle if not slightly embarrassing topple. So when I'd already separated from my bicycle before even being introduced to shoes with cleats the future didn't look so bright. I'd been reluctant to transfer out of the comfort of my trainers due to the aforementioned increased risk of falling combined with the inconvenience of having to walk like a duck when wearing the stiff unpractical cycling shoes. Yes I had a seemingly unavoidable "topple" on my first ride, having uncleated the left I made the school boy error of turning sharply to the right.
The warmer weather combined with the fact I'm still unable to swim (as a result of the initial mishap) has meant more time spent on my bike. My confidence was building and I had ventured out alone last Friday combining training with a visit to a friend's house for tea. The idea to save her heading out in her car backfired, she ended up driving me and my damaged bicycle back home. This time I can honestly say it was not my fault, it seems some cars do not give way to cyclists when on a roundabout. The consolation being I am now symmetrical with my new wounds being on the opposite side to previously.
I do seriously hope that I don't need another eight falls until I can class myself as a "cyclist".

I get knocked down but I get up again (TT column 08/04/13)


I am conscious of this quickly becoming a cycling column but I can not ignore yesterday's ride as I am most certainly still suffering and in a way I haven't suffered before.
I headed out on another group ride, this time in Bath with a smaller slightly less experienced bunch of riders. After the midway coffee break we hit a relatively straight and flat road, I thought would be the ideal opportunity to test out the "drafting factor" that a more experienced rider had been explaining to me.
The front pack started to breakaway so this was my chance, I got in close and tested the effects of being in the slip stream. I can assure you it is true, suddenly you need half the amount of effort to keep up. The key is being within half a bike wheel away from the one in front, this I soon discovered requires a fair amount of concentration when travelling at a speed of 25mph. I was flying along and loving it until - only momentarily - I was on the back wheel of the bike in front; I was then sent sliding horizontally across the gravelly verge. This was an unusual moment when I actually appreciated the never ending winter, as a result of these Baltic temperatures I was wearing several layers of clothes which added considerable protection.
After years of riding horses and of course falling off them i have had one theory strongly ingrained in me - always get straight back on after a fall. This ethos came in handy when miles away from home, luckily with no time to stop and think about the discomfort I made my way back safely. I know my pride and wounds will undoubtedly heal, although I am most upset about the scars on my once sparkly beautiful new bicycle.
I will end my sympathy seeking immediately though as this is nothing compared to what jump jockeys face on a regular basis. After the Grand National I think this has been highlighted, those jockeys are incredibly tough both physically and mentally.

Cinderella (TT column 01/04/13)


It is only due to the fact that I watched a television drama just prior to going to sleep that my nightmares involved a cave in Carcassonne as opposed to the hills in West Devon. If I hear the words Broadwoodwidger or Combebow I get a shiver down my spine, some of you might know these country lanes and wonder why they evoke such emotions, if I had only ever driven them I would ask the same. I braved the early start on Easter Sunday; despite losing an hour of valuable sleep and the snowy conditions outside I happily freewheeled my way into Tavistock blissfully unaware of what a morning out with the Tavistock Wheelers might involve. I think it is fair to say I earned at least half of the chocolate I proceeded to eat later that day.

Before heading home for Easter I had a few diverse and action packed days in London. They ranged from watching McFly by candle light in aid of Earth hour, presenting prizes at the schools biathlon championships and attending the Sport Journalist Association awards evening. I was honoured to present a prize at the SJA awards to none other than the acclaimed Sunday Times journalist David Walsh for his exposure of Lance Armstrong in the doping saga - you never know he might have started out with a small weekly column too. Unfortunately I did not have the opportunity to pick the brains of these award winning presenters and journalists as I had a train to catch. I felt a little like Cinderella as I was stripping out of my gorgeous yet borrowed designer dress and running to catch the last train home, stupidly though I forgot to drop a slipper, I shall just have to keep looking for my prince.

A small world (TT column 25/03/13)


It ceases to surprise me how small this world can be. One example occurred whilst travelling on a packed train to London. I was fortunate enough to board early so had my choice of seats although this does not give one the luxury to choose who you might like to share the arm rest with. Luckily the battle of the elbows was very subtle and I didn't have too much of my personal space invaded, anyhow it was not long before I fell asleep for the remainder of the journey to Paddington. It was no surprise that the train was later than scheduled, as a result it was a dash across the city using the underground network to make my meeting. Arriving a little late and rather flustered you can imagine my confusion when entering the room to discover the gentleman I'd shared my armrest with for the last two hours was already sat down, relaxed and looking thoroughly into the discussion at hand (apparently taxis are a faster option). I was so glad that elbow battle had been gentle, I just hope I didn't nod onto his shoulder during my nap.
The other scenario occurred whilst out for a run in the Bath countryside. Earlier that morning I had a visit from a new builder to discuss problems with my flat, he mentioned he lived locally but I was not aware of his farm. Feeling adventurous I set off in a different direction and found myself in completely unknown territory having to ask for directions. After a steep climb up through a muddy field the footpath seemed cut directly across someone's front patio, being curious I peered in, only to be met by a familiar face. Feeling a little embarrassed at having been spotted I quickly ran on only for it to dawn on me that it was in fact Manor farm and the aforementioned builder. I'm quite certain I wasn't trespassing but still hope my running kit acted as a sufficient disguise.

California dreaming (TT column 25/02/13)


Oh California! What can I say that won't make you envious of me right now, not much other than I will also be back in the Baltic temperatures of the UK very shortly. I am writing this from Los Angeles having just been to a friend's "Oscars" house party, yes the biggest academy film awards in the world were held literally down the road from where I am staying.

Directly after finishing the Palm Springs World Cup on Saturday evening it was straight to the airport, this time not for a tightly timed flight home but to pick up a car. Having never hired a car, driven on the right side of the road or driven a left hand drive I was a little apprehensive. It did take a while to familiarise with the huge family estate Mazda we had been given, so mich so that after about ten minutes of attempting to start the engine my co driver and I had to ask a passer by, it turned out we had been sat in the wrong car - a little embarrassing. Once over this first hurdle we were off, cruising on an American freeway doesn't require much skill, we headed west leaving the impressive landscape of desert surrounded by mountains towards the bright lights of LA. It is times like this that all the hard training in recent blizzard conditions back home seem more than worth it, the coaches have very kindly given my teammate and I a few days of "leave". I do not think we are going to struggle to fit in some training sessions if running along Venice beach with the sun on our backs or swimming laps in an open air pool count.

It will back to earth or should I say the UK with a bump though as I have a rather significant birthday coming up which I have chosen to celebrate with running Bath half marathon. Maybe not such a wise decision in hind sight.

 

2020 & Hen fun (TT column 18/02/13)


Olympic sport filled the international news headlines last week for a couple of reasons. We had the unfolding of the truly shocking events regarding Oscar Pistorius in South Africa of which I am still struggling to digest and make sense of. Then on a slightly lighter note there was the review of the core sports for the 2020 Olympics.

The minority sport of Modern Pentathlon usually welcomes any press attention, however last week was an exception. Due to the bookies predictions that my sport was the favourite to be axed from the 2020 Olympic programme we had camera crews, journalists and radio stations all keen to speak to us at training. It was a bizarre anti climax as we the athletes were hugely relieved at the announcement of Pentathlon's inclusion in the future Games, yet the press could not disguise their disappointment at being in the wrong place for a "strong" news story. The consequences of this vote were hugely significant for a sport like mine as our funding depends on the potential of Olympic medals, so to hear the great news in the middle of a hard swim session made it all the more appreciated.

Outside of sport it was an action packed week due to the responsibility of organising my friends Hen weekend. Choosing the city of Bath might have been seen as a an easy option but having the inside knowledge was definitely a bonus and the feedback was all refreshingly positive. I did feel slightly guilty though when having to depart early on sunday morning due to my call up for the USA World Cup, but I think I'd filled Saturday sufficiently with a full range of activities including pole dancing, the spa and wine tasting. After such a weekend it is often accepted that you will feel the effect at least the day after, although this is usually due to excess alcohol consumption not achy muscles from a certain activity, and yes that is myself (an athlete) included.

Friday, April 26, 2013

Men have their uses (TT column 14/04/13)


It pains me to admit it but there are times when one just needs a man. I do not want to tar all women with the same brush but if like me you have few practical bones in your body there are certain tasks that require the "Y" chromosome. Having been brought up on a farm I have gained a little knowledge of DIY, although limited as my father would usually find it easier to fix the problem alone rather than with my so called 'help'.

With the risk of sounding incredibly old fashioned or older than my years I do feel that men of my age are lacking in the practical skills regularly demonstrated by the older generations. It therefore frustrates me when every seemingly insignificant problem that arises in my flat can not be solved by a friend and has to result in the hiring of a "specialist".

This observation has been highlighted by the failure of my washing machine - two months later and after four paid visits I can at last have clean clothes. I am not sure if the time taken to repair my machine or the thought of eight weeks worth of unwashed clothes is the most alarming? Yes I do have a large wardrobe of clothes but even I could not survive that long, I resorted to student behaviour again by coming home with a car boot full of laundry.

Usually the advantage of a hired professional results in a rapid solution, in my case this was not so. The visit from the washing machine "technician" left me with an apparently straightforward diagnosis plus a new and incredibly disconcerting dilemma; how to access the back of the built-in machine? In the words of the technician the only option was to knock down the wall and of course he did not possess these skills. After a few sleepless nights it was to my huge relief that the following visit from the carpenter proved this theory to be false.