Dales Divide - I’m Not Scratching

Hi all!
Back in 2022 I signed up for the Dales Divide, didn’t train correctly, and ended up with a knee injury due to a sudden spike in activity. My training ride 2-3 weeks before saw me cycle to the Lake District ( • A 200 Mile Bikepacking... ). I pulled out from the start and went to see my friend off. When I drove home, the route went over the M6 to taunt me just a little more. Once I got home, I set about trying to work out how to strengthen my knee and get to next year’s start line.
I signed up and started the training in November just after the Bear Bones 200 route ( • Bear Bones - My 200km ... ). I was even prepping food and doing a lot of off-bike exercises too, I even started rowing.
Before I knew it the Easter break was here - which means only one thing, it’s time for the Dales Divide 2023.
This ride is a 600km ITT (individual time trial) not for the faint-hearted, but it's for anyone willing to push themselves. It goes through some of the best trails that the Yorkshire Dales and North Yorkshire Moors have to offer. I had to cover a minimum of 150km a day just to stay in the race.
Due to the amount of training I did, it was a fun ride, but still hard. The hours in the saddle were long, but the scenery along the way made up for any discomfort or exhaustion.
I really hope you enjoy this film “I’m Not Scratching” If you did you can buy me a slice of 🍕( www.buymeacoff... ) or just sit back with a coffee. This ride meant so much to me to complete due to the non-start last year, it’s not my usual type of film, but as I’m now dipping my toes into long-distance racing, I couldn’t stop too much.
You may also notice I’ve bought a new frame bag it’s by Poca Bags probably the best frame bag I’ve ever bought, reach out to them and see what you think pocabags.com not an advert, more of a recommendation.
See you next time!
-Allen