Day 14. Friday, July 11 – Newcastle Upon Tyne to Alnwick, England
Friday 11 July 2014
Flat countryside and no wind; not even the crisp 59° and grey skies could dampen our elation. We sailed along the countryside, through villages 
and past churches
as if we had a strong wind to our back. Experience has proven, when we see a grade sign for a downhill, the uphill on the other side is going to be a bugger. One hour into our ride, our legs were woken up to the scream of a steep 15% climb. Thankfully, the two climbs were short and we were back out into the countryside. 
We passed wind turbines, quietly standing at attention as we passed; 
it was a wonderful day.
Shortly before noon we dropped into Amble 
for a bite to eat and try to find a room further down the road. We had a room at a town only eight miles down the road, but as good as we were feeling we wanted to go further. But nothing was working for us, so we enjoyed the rest of the short ride. We rolled along our own bike path 
past more churches,
villages pouring into the sea 
and even a castle.
Of course to get to the 12th century Warkworth Castle, we had to pedal up,
then down 
then up again
The eight miles ended up to be 10 and the flat countryside rolled more dramatically,
but without any wind, the day could not have been any better…….longer, but not better. Our pedal into town was once again graced with flowers
and a stone gate entry.
With an early arrival, after our 40 mile day we stopped in a local pub for some good drink 
and delightful conversation that we actually understood! The next few days will be long and hilly; we can only hope for the same weather.
Two weeks down! Thanks to ALL that have commented on our blog; we cannot respond to everyone but DO read and enjoy everything…..keep ’em coming.
Don Says:
The ride today certainly seemed more scenic than yesterday. Amazing what a little sunshine (and no wind) will do for your spirits!
Ken Says:
How about getting that bartender to draw me one (or two) of those pints of ale? The perfect end to an all day ride! Looks like you’ll be in or near Scotland after tomorrow’s ride. Watch out for the heather and gorse!
Mike K. Says:
Friday is a Gloriuos day in Newcastle , as riders arrive and a smile on their face. 2 weeks have gone by , and we have lost some riders. So here is a run down of your 2014 Scottish Rambling Race Contestants.
!st place Team Lake Titticaca S. America
2nd Team Timbuktu Africa
3rd Team Olympus Greece
4th Team Kalamazoo U.S.
5th Team Peepeekeo Hawaiian islands
6th Team Scotland Scotland
7th Team Bang Bang
8th Team Bocrie
9th Team Canada Canada ( Drown in a Lock ) ( OUT )
10 th Team Maine U.S. ( never left Maine , Plane fuel wasn’t green) ( OUT )
So there are your remaining Teams
On to Eyemouth , However Team Scotland found another pub , The Spotted Ox. When they leave there who knows.
And still, to our disbelief, Team Bocrie is heading up the rear. Last spotted at the Warkworth Castle. Running around Nude through the Castle, like some Rabbit Pole Cat .
We here at Cecil OToole Sports hour, would like to think all participants , in this World Wide Race. More update coming as we get them.
Racers Enjoy your day Happy Cycling !
Ken Says:
Eyemouth, Scotland – isn’t that near Earnosethroat?
Ken Says:
Team Bocrie crossed into Scotland an hour ago. Go Team!
Creesta Says:
Sounds like fun in the castle. 😉
Pat and M.E. Says:
A “bugger” — you’re sounding very British/Scotish/Irish….