After an uneventful flight out on Tuesday, the boys arrived at Hotel Marechiaro in Gizzeria Lido fit and ready for the momentous challenge that lay ahead of them – 900+ miles up the entire Mediterranean coast of Italy, from the toecap right up to the top of “the boot”!
The weather promises to be quite hot for at least the first few days while in the south, so the decision was made to start early each day (much to Gary’s dismay!).
So, the lads looking awesome in their matching lemon-yellow tops were banging on the door of the hotel restaurant before 7am, ready for a hearty breakfast of bread, eggs and sausage. Washed down with a couple of industrial-strength cappuccinos (no Yorkshire Tea available in these parts – sorry Gaz!).
The boys set off at 7.30am, on the first leg of 90 miles from Gizzeria Lido to Praia a Mare, hoping that their legs hadn’t forgotten how this cycling lark works. A steady pace was set, with a stop every 20 miles or so and by lunchtime the intrepid adventurers (…too much?) had covered 60 miles. Ending up at a great looking lunch spot right on the beach of Diamante. Unfortunately, the service was not quite as sparkly as you would expect, and we had to give the surly waiter a bit of a Yorkshire hurry up!
The coast road was great, while it hugged the seafront. So, when heading into the hills inland, with a succession of tunnels reminding the boys why they need lights on their bikes!
The last leg of the day saw some spectacular scenery as the mountains came right up to the coastline, and the boys were glad to arrive in Praia a Mare having covered 91.2 miles in a fabulous first day.
Tomorrow will see Gary and Miles embarking on the next leg of their adventure as they head from Praia a Mare to Acciaroli! 🚵♀️🚵♂️
Absolutely brilliant guys………..you’ll both be doing those kind of tunnels in Lambos next September…..
Hi both
Just want to say a huge huge thank you for what you are doing for Candlelighters.
Please know as you are pedalling that every penny makes a huge difference to children and their families affected by childhood cancer in Yorkshire. Everytime you raise just £3, a child could have their most favourite snack or drink provided by our Candlelighters Dinner Lady when they wake up from an operation, or start to feel hungry again after treatment.
Thank you so so much.
Amy at Candlelighters