Paris-Brest-Paris – Back on home soil | Amy Cycling Adventures
Source: Amy Cycling Adventures Youtube Channel: Paris-Brest-Paris Q&A – Back on home soil
Video Paris-Brest-Paris Q&A – Back on home soil with Amy Cycling Adventures
Video Paris-Brest-Paris Q&A – Back on home soil with Amy Cycling Adventures YouTube Channel.
Paris-Brest-Paris Q&A – Back on home soil
Amy Cycling Adventures: A Journey to Paris-Brest-Paris
Amy, an avid cyclist, recently completed the Paris-Brest-Paris (PBP) ride, covering a whopping 1,200 kilometers. In a recent Q&A session, she shared her experience and insights about the iconic ride. From training to mental challenges, Amy elaborated on every aspect. Let’s dive into her journey.
Training for the Ultimate Ride
Amy doesn’t follow a strict training plan or have a coach. She simply puts in the miles and gradually builds up her endurance. Her key advice is to start by riding regularly and slowly increase the mileage. The key is to be determined and train your mind to push through the pain. Amy emphasizes the importance of positive self-talk, singing, and keeping a positive mindset to overcome the challenges that come with endurance cycling.
Costs and Logistics
Joining the PBP ride requires a qualification process, involving completing a series of long-distance rides. Amy recommends doing the qualifying rides in the year leading up to the PBP event. The cost for the PBP entry is approximately £150, which includes a PBP jacket, brevet card, and a rucksack. Additionally, riders need to budget for accommodation, food, and travel expenses, including the cost of the ferry if applicable. Amy and her companion spent about £700 for their entire PBP journey, including accommodation and food.
Facing Physical Challenges
During her PBP ride, Amy experienced physical discomfort, including period pain and heel pain. She also came away with some cuts and bruises. However, she attributes her mental strength and determination, honed through overcoming past mental health struggles, as instrumental in pushing through the pain and finishing the ride. Despite the pain, Amy’s best moment on the ride was spotting a shooting star, which served as a source of motivation as she neared the finish line.
Equipment and Cycling Gear
Amy rode her gravel bike for PBP, citing its comfortable position for long rides. She also highlighted the importance of carrying essential gear, including a sleeping bag and baby bag, which she found invaluable for getting rest during the ride. Notably, Amy plans to get a proper bike fit before her next big challenge, as she recognized the significance of a well-fitted bike in preventing potential discomfort.
The Ultimate Experience
Amy spoke of the moments of camaraderie, the friendly volunteers, and the supportive atmosphere among PBP riders. The collective spirit of enduring the challenge and celebrating achievements reverberated throughout her journey. With a sense of pride, Amy emphasized that just attempting such an extraordinary ride is an accomplishment in itself, regardless of the outcome.
The Road Ahead
As for her future endeavors, Amy expressed an interest in participating in the All Points North ride and aiming for another 600-kilometer distance before the end of the year. She also entertained the prospect of attempting a 24-hour time trial. In addition, she contemplated the daunting Transcontinental Race but acknowledged feelings of trepidation about such a formidable challenge.
In conclusion, Amy’s cycling adventures are a testament to the triumphs and trials that come with endurance cycling. Her empowering journey serves as an inspiration to all aspiring long-distance cyclists, underscoring the importance of mental resilience, determination, and a supportive community. As she continues to set her sights on new cycling challenges, her experience with PBP will undoubtedly drive her forward in conquering new horizons in the world of endurance cycling.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel Amy Cycling Adventures and do not necessarily represent the views of CicloNews.
