The first of many. Well, that's the plan at least.

Ben and I pedalled off from Tunbridge Wells a little later than expected, it was gone one o'clock when we gave up waiting on Max and decided to meet him en-route at the Old Vine in Cousley Wood. 40 minutes later we had arrived - thirsty, tired, and shocked at how long the first 4 miles had taken us. We had to do 26 more before sundown. The kit on my pannier weighed probably the best part of 30 kilos and Ben was riding a BMX.

Max joined us shortly after we ordered our drinks and we chatted for a while about how each of us had prepared for the journey - it was clear that I had been the most prepared person by buying a pannier and setting it with more than two hours to spare - Max was hungover and had only just finished bolting his bike together. Still, with the spirt of adventure fresh in our hearts and dreams of sandy beaches and cold beers, we set off once again.

It was hard going, harder than what I ever expected. It took a lot of determination one some of the hills, and it seemed impossible on others, but once we got a rhythm going we made some progress. We reached Hawkhurst - just under half-way - by about 5 o'clock. Of course, we had a pint and relaxed for a while.

The weather was pleasant with no wind or rain, we were able to keep plodding along at a steady pace. Slow, but steady. It wasn't until after 7 o'clock that we reached Rye, with still 5 miles to go.

Google estimated the trip to take 2 hours 44 minutes - yeah, right!

We arrived at Camber Sands with just enough time to pitch our tents before dark.

Sleeping on the sand wasn't as comfortable as I predicted - next time I will try digging out a bed.

We cycled down to the sea and Ben even had the courage to swim in it. I am normally the one to step up to such challenge but I must admit; it was cold and I was very dry and comfortable, and with a 30 mile ride back with already beaten up thighs, I didn't want to add to my burden.

The ride back took a while, stopping at pubs was again our only paradise in a world of pain - okay that's a bit dramatic, but it was nice to stop for a few drinks :)

Although it did pour down briefly, we avoided any significant rain. We arrived back in Tunbridge Wells just before sundown. I felt tired, but alive and full of the good spirit that you get after completing and adventure.

This was a tiny ride in comparison to what I am proposing to do next year. In fact what we did in two days, I am going to need to do in half a day, six times over.

I will try and improve my stamina and speed over the next few months. I have been running almost every week since the ride and I'm not up to 10 miles, I have also been swimming and I've kept up my weekly rock climbing outings. Of course I have also been cycling to work which doesn't seem like much, but has helped dramatically when cycling uphill - it is now a lot easier and I believe it is these obstacles that slow down progress in a long ride.

Hope you enjoyed reading this - click play to watch the footage from my GoPro of the ride. I will keep you updated on my training!

Santiago.

What is it that makes someone plan a new adventure?

Perhaps it's the challenge, the feeling of accomplishment, the desire to explore or maybe just a way of breaking the everyday routine with something extraordinary.

I have found my next adventure, and it is something that I've never really done before. It's something that will require a lot of training, and perhaps build towards something bigger in the future.

In 2015, I am going to cycle the Three Peaks Challenge in less than three days.

Three Peaks Challenge Route - National Geographic

This involves climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland, cycling over 300 miles to the Peak Disctrict, climbing Scafell Pike then cycling a further 140 miles to Snowdonia and climbing Snowdon - all in under 72 hours.

I have never cycled any more than just a few miles, but after reading books like Cycling Home From Siberia by Rob Lilwall, I have been inspired in this method of travel. The freedom to be able to travel cheaply, choosing your route and facing the elements along the way.

My training will involve a series of shorter trips, which will not only get my build my strength but also help me to become efficient in camping/carrying kit and everything else that a cycling trip will involve.

I will start the training by a trip to Camber Sands - at just 30 miles each way, it will be a great way to start this amazing adventure.

I will let you know how I get on!
Santiago.

Beats' USA Bike Ride

"I’ll stick out my thumb and I'll trudge down the highway
Someday someone must be going my way home
Till then I’ll make my bed from a disused car
With a mattress of leaves and a blanket of stars
And I’ll stitch the words into my heart with a needle and thread 

Don’t you cry for the lost
Smile for the living
Get what you need and give what you’re given
You know life’s for the living so live it
Or you’re better off dead"

It's particularly those last two lines that strike me from this song, it reminds me just how important it is to do the things you love, no matter how dangerous, difficult, or out of the ordinary they might be. Because if you're not living life to its full potential, then you are wasting your time on this beautiful earth. 

Come May this year a friend of mine, Rob Beattie, will be cycling the length of North America on his own, in just 10 weeks. He is funding the trip by himself and raising money for Cancer Research - which is obviously one of the best causes out there. He has never done anything like this before and I'd like to take this opportunity to say; I admire what you're doing, I am extremely jealous, and I hope it goes well and you have the time of your life - I know you will! 

If you don't have the money right now then simply share the link to Rob's website, if you do, then donate at least a couple of pounds of an amazing cause, but most of all, remember to live your life how you want to live it and be happy!

Donate here.

Follow Rob on his journey here.