Cycle to Polonnaruwa ruins 60km
''The second day started early at 6:30am with a hearty breakfast to prepare for the first day cycling. Well, it did for the rest of the team.
At 7:05 I heard familiar voices in my dreams, except they weren't in my dreams. They were outside my bedroom window and walking to our meeting point at the bikes for our warm up. My first day as The Openwork Foundation leader on my very first overseas cycle challenge and I'd overslept. But after getting ready in record time I made it to the warm up and learnt very quickly why these cycle challenges hold such a special place in the hearts of so many.
What a first day! We set off at 7:30am after a 'Gordie Butcher' warm up from Brian. As we left the hotel I watched the single-file procession of cyclists, all wearing their Foundation jerseys, and felt proud to be part of something so special. Highlights included the views of the rice paddies, the warm smiles of the local people, the breathtaking vistas from Lion's Rock and the amazing camaraderie I'd heard so much about. As a cycling novice I felt supported at every turn.
The day wasn't without its challenges and calamities. We were eased in gently with a manageable 60km on fairly flat roads, but battling 31°C heat was tough. Mitch managed to get a puncture swiftly followed by a chain malfunction. We also learnt that Helen can't say no, who will buy anything if you pester her long enough.
The cycling is going to get much tougher from tomorrow but I know that the team will work together to get everyone to Kandy, our next destination on this challenging but incredibly rewarding adventure.''
Lisa Willingham - The Openwork Foundation
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