Ship’s Log: The Cleat Alignment Gambit

Finally got round to replacing my cleats last night. Long overdue, as evidenced by the way the old ones had seemingly fused with my shoes. At the same time I took the opportunity to reposition them in the eternal quest for marginal gains.

Today's mission: the standard 30-mile loop. Conditions? Overcast skies but decent visibility, and—shockingly—feet that did not enter a state of cryogenic suspension. Several PBs were recorded in the latter half of the ride, though honesty (and my unshakable commitment to self-deprecation) compels me to admit that a helpful tailwind did much of the heavy lifting. I’ll take it.

A quick stop at the Cow Shed for a latte and Raspberry & Pistachio cake. I tuned in, with thinly veiled jealousy, to the live stream of a cycling race in Abu Dhabi. Sun, warmth, and an utter lack of overshoes—must be nice.

Final waypoint: a rendezvous with the in-laws for yet another coffee, this time from a vast, soulless caffeine conglomerate, their choice.

With the bike now in for servicing, training is on hold and a brief hiatus from active operations begins. No tailwinds, no cake, just the creeping horror that this is the easiest things will ever be. Wonderful.