Pedolta per Meyer

Cycling with the Florentines

Distance: 80km Average speed: 35km/hr
http://maps.google.com/mapsf=d&saddr=Via+27+Aprile,+50129+Firenze+Florence,+Tuscany,+Italy&daddr=san+Casciano+to:Montespertoli+to:Via+27+Aprile,+50129+Firenze+Florence,+Tuscany,+Italy&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=43.779584,11.255686&sspn=0.007638,0.012832&g=Via+27+Aprile,+50129+Firenze+Florence,+Tuscany,+Italy&ie=UTF8&t=p&z=11

Despite wavering enthusiasm, undismissable self doubt and cold limbs, at 7.40am this morning Lorenzo, Barbara & I met up in the centre of Firenze, before joining the Florentine cycling group to participate in the Pedolta per Meyer benefit ride and my first experience of riding with these lean, enthusiastic and charming Florentine cyclists.

Before my first latte at San Casciano we cycled 40km over undulating Tuscan hills, past scenic vistas and winding valleys bathed in autumn sunlight. Although Valentino was as commendable as always, riding with the Italians and trying to maintain their racing pace was challenging. My legs had the endurance, strength and stamina, but I had to work twice as hard to cover the distance. However according to Lorenzo (head of the Florentine cycling group) my tenacity and form has already qualified me for their cycling squad...!

Riding with them was wonderful and such a buzz. I felt so privileged to be part of the group. Ahhh...and so another dream has been fulfilled. I can't believe it.. I'm so happy.

(Above) Overwhelmed Jules & Lorenzo at 7.40am.

I had no idea what the day would hold and honestly I was too scared to ask.

The Florentine cycling group at the start of the Pedolta per Meyer

Sunday October 26th, 2008 Firenze.

Coffee break (above) Barbara & Jules, (below) Jules, Morandi, Barbara & Afredo


Lorenzo & the Italian cyclists on a dreamy descent back home to Firenze.

Christmas wishes

Dear Santa, In addition to all my other requests, could I please ask for a new Italian cycling beau.

PS. Caro Valentino, Mi perdona. Ti amo e sarei sempre la mia prima amore.