There was a well-earned leisurely day in Amsterdam on Sunday 20 September after an impressive 350-mile cycle from London, travelling through France and Belgium before reaching Holland.
It may have been a cycling trip rather than a running weekend, but covering that sort of distance still makes this a proper Carnie endurance adventure. After all those miles in the saddle, Amsterdam provided the perfect place to slow down, explore and enjoy the achievement.
Three countries and plenty of local rewards
A long-distance journey is not only about reaching the final destination. This trip also offered the chance to sample a few local favourites along the way.
There was French wine during the journey through France, followed by beer and chocolate in Belgium. After arriving in Holland, Dutch cheese and waffles completed a particularly enjoyable menu of post-cycling rewards.
It sounds like an excellent balance: plenty of miles during the day and something distinctive to enjoy whenever the bike stopped.
A 350-mile ride into Amsterdam
Cycling from London to Amsterdam is a substantial undertaking. At 350 miles, the journey required far more than a quick weekend pedal, crossing borders and carrying on through changing surroundings before finally reaching the Dutch capital.
There is something especially satisfying about arriving somewhere under your own power. Each mile forms part of the experience, turning the destination into much more than another city break.
The ride follows another major two-wheeled achievement featured on the Carn Runners website. Earlier in the year, Janet completed an epic 400-mile charity cycle, proving that Carnies are just as capable of clocking up big distances on two wheels as they are on two feet.
Just too late for the Amsterdam 16K
Even during a cycling adventure, it seems a running event is never far away. A 16K run was taking place in Amsterdam on Sunday, offering a tempting opportunity to add another challenge to the trip.
Unfortunately, the timing did not quite work out and arrival came too late to enter. After cycling 350 miles to get there, however, missing one race entry can probably be forgiven. The Amsterdam running shoes will have to wait for another visit.
Instead, the day could be enjoyed at a more relaxed pace, with time to take in the city and recover from the journey. Dutch cheese and waffles may not appear on many formal training plans, but they sound thoroughly deserved after a ride of that length.
Another Carnie adventure away from Cornwall
From Cornwall’s roads and trails to journeys much farther afield, Carn Runners members continue to find all sorts of ways to stay active and take on new challenges. This London-to-Amsterdam ride is another brilliant example of where a taste for endurance and adventure can lead.
Congratulations on completing all 350 miles and reaching Amsterdam. Enjoy the leisurely day — and perhaps keep an eye on the race calendar before the next cycling destination is chosen!
For those staying a little closer to home, the latest club nights and training sessions can be found on the Carn Runners run schedule.
