Dundee Research Interest Group

 

TRES AMIGOS - GULP! 

Call me crazy, oh what have I done?

It was on, it was off… then there was one,

My thoughts as a solo rider, filled me with fear,

But a buddy I’ve found, I must pack my gear? 

100km a day is a massive ask

And no doubt I will need an oxygen mask 

I’m nowhere near ready; only partially steady

But stupidity wins through, feeling rough and ready

 

How many days cycling in soaring heat?

Am I going to endure on a saddle seat

Seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty plus days

Off to Barcelona I bike with the sun and a haze.

 

A twice failed house sale has worked out for the best

Giving more time to renovate and refurbish the rest

But training has lacked in quality indeed 

Leaving eight weeks to get fit with the aim to succeed

 

No planning, no ferry, no accommodation yet booked

How the hell, what the hell, Gill and I both pressure cooked

A challenge which will not be done with ease

But raising awareness of Parkinson’s Disease

 

From Valencia Gary and Gillian will be cycling too,

Joining the Spanish/American team, woohoo.

Arriving in Barcelona in record time

Where I hope to join them to cross the finish line.

 

WARRIOR QUEEN (Gillian)

I’ve persuaded my cycling buddy to join in too 

Gillian, diagnosed 2020; aged 52

How did you know I had to ask 

Curling toes, unsteady balance, but no facial mask

 

She wondered why she couldn’t cycle with a wooden leg and limb

A pharmacist, two sons, two dogs and married to Jim 

Socialising, baking, gardening is what she enjoys best

But cycling with Gary will be put to the test 

 

It all happened so quick her decision to ride

This challenging trip, will be attempted with pride

Cycling Valencia to Barcelona over 6 days 

Her determination to beat PD will be met with praise

 

Raising awareness and funds is the aim of the game 

To eradicate statements like: ‘oh what a shame’

Let’s help researchers save the dopamine 

Sponsor us and our Warrior Queen 

 

BESTIE (Gary)

He’s more of a walker than cyclist you see 

My husband Gary is amazing to me

But here he is swapping boots for wheels

I’m over the moon, you can hear my squeals 

 

Immense mileage is anticipated over six days

But this is just the beginning and not just a phase 

His lessons to learn Spanish are coming on fine

He’ll be able to order the wine and fine dine

 

Enara and Co are in for a treat,

What with Gary’s banter and smelly feet.

He’ll be an amazing team member, precious memories made

Just hope the energy stays strong and doesn’t fade

 

But seriously, he’s going to be great

I’m lucky to have him as my lifelong soulmate 

I can’t wait to join you on the very last day

I love you and thank you, what more can I say. 

 

Janet Kerr is a member of DRIG and heading to the WPC in Barcelona, by BIKE!!