Coldest Blog on Earth

07/04/2011

Apologies in advance for this blog not replicating War and Peace in length (if not quality) like the previous two blogs.  Although I’m sure not many people will be complaining.  For once I have a decent excuse for being rushed as Bev and I had a little baby girl on Tuesday so a blog about The Coldest Race on Earth has inexplicably fallen down the priority list

I’ll try to explain the event and the reasons behind doing it but it’s important to talk about the theme of the programme.  It was a hard watch for Bev and for me as I had to prepare very differently for this event after accident than I did the Marathon des Sables.  Understandably to prove to the medics that I was capable of doing such an event and a change to the innate trust I have in my body not to let me down.

It is a positive film because six months ago I’d never have thought I would have been able to complete an event like this.  But it is very honest and at times, especially compared to the first programme in the trilogy, it looks like a different person preparing and doing the race.  It was two months ago and my recovery will only be complete two years post accident but for anyone who’s suffered a brain injury or knows someone who has it’s vital belief is maintained that improvement will be on an upward trajectory.

Okay on with an explanation of the event. 

“You what? Cycling on ice?” Bev’s reaction to the possibility of me entering a cycling event in Northern Canada wasn’t unexpected althoughthe comparison to ITV1’s Dancing on Ice was.  I’d practiced explaining  that Arcitc tundra (frozen ground) is very different to riding a bike on an ice rink didn’t do the job because to most people ice crystals no matter in what form are cold and slippery.

The off-road race covered 430miles from Whitehorse to Dawson City in Canada’s most western territory; Yukon.  It could either be done on foot, cross-country skis or bike.  Named after the Yukon River, the territory sits above British Columbia and borders Alaska for over 750miles. It was the mention of Alaska in February with the territory’s arctic climate that didn’t add strength my argument when it came to talking about the suitability of frozen ground for cycling. 

A flippant answer to “Why choose a cycling event on the snow?” would be “At least there aren’t any trucks!” The real answer is more difficult to convey.  A number of things have changed since the accident. 

I feel like my decisions aren’t trusted in the same way since the truck ploughed into me so felt making the right choice in a competitive situation would prove my judgement could be trusted.   Completing the event in such a challenging environment would help regain the self-confidence that has gone AWOL post-accident. 

Having already skied to the South Pole dragging a sledge I didn’t fancy repeating that process in the Northern Hemisphere.  Organising the equipment and planning a strategy for a self-supported trip in potentially -40 degrees presented an appealing challenge.  Neurologists had repeatedly said that an injury to the frontal lobe of my brain would affect my ability to plan and organise.  What they hadn’t banked on was a load of kit left from Antarctica and a passion for bikes. 

A snowbike was what I needed.  Funnily enough the landscape isn’t awash with manufacturers, apparently it’s a niche market.  Understandable as these beasts are known by the less than glamorous moniker of fatbikes .  Primarily because of their fat wheels and ability (I hoped) to ride over rather than sink into the snow. 

One benefit of the market not being flooded with manufacturers is limited options, the big sellers are Surly and Fatbike.  Those fellas clearly spend as much time out on their bikes as building them, which as a potential customer created a belief in their passion for their product but a problem with communication.  I had more luck with a bike shop in Alaska, their fatbike model a 9:Zero:7 is named after the Alaskan dialling code thus filling me with confidence.

Aside from a manufacturer’s own USP and the personal tweaks riders make with experience of riding on the white stuff there is a generic blueprint to which snow bikes adhere to.  Wide bottom brackets, dropouts and forks are a must in order to house big fat tyres which can run at low pressure behaving like a snow shoe.  But fat tyres require fat rims and the tyre surrounding a 100mm rim would be at home on a moto-cross bike. 

Geometry is vital due to the length of time people spend on the bikes.  The 9:Zero:7 had a longer head tube meaning it didn’t require a stack of spacers to get an upright riding position therefore reducing stress to the neck and wrists.  It wasn’t aerodynamic but I was able to stay on the bike for longer - great.  If it hadn’t been for the masculine thick tyres the high bars combined with a dropped seat tube would have made observers question whether it was a shopping bike. 

A strong frame is essential for winter expeditions such as the Yukon Arctic Ultra I’d entered because the bike was fully with food, a sleeping bag, stove, fuel, spare kit, lights, bivvy bag, tool kit, spare tubes, and goggles.  Loaded on the bike a bar bag (a dry bag hanging below the handlebars), frame bag, a dry bag attached to the seat post and a ‘gas tank’ sitting on the top tube which would contain food and spare kit for the day.  Other competitors all turned up with variations of the same albeit slightly better packed. 

As with any self-supported race it’s essential to get yourself to the finish so it’s better to opt for bullet proof kit rather than bespoke which is why I chose Shimano XTR spd pedals, and Sram XO twist shifter rather than speed trigger shifter also allowing me to change gear whilst wearing thick mittens.  For wheels I went with a 100mm rim at the front and 80mm at the back.  Larger at the front because of the weight suspended below the bars and that extra bit of flotation.  Smaller at the back to give grip and drive when the snow was compact and extra space between the frame and tyre for the inevitable build up of snow. 

I can’t describe the race in too much detail because I’ll bore you with the detail and the documentary is on Discovery Channel tonight (7th April) at 9pm.  Competitors could rest when they wished but due to the accident I underwent tests and with my neurologist came up with a resting strategy to reduce the risk of a seizure that I’m more susceptible to since the summer.  

My cycling speed wasn’t an issue, I arrived first at the 100 mile check point but once I’d taken my agreed rest it put me on the back foot.  Medical rests became secondary and when the temperature dropped and the snow came I started to live by the mantras of ‘when in doubt, let air out’ and ‘there’s no shame in walking’.  We must have had February’s average snowfall in 48 hours after a week of sleeping in a bivvy and cycling in Arctic conditions pushing my bike through the snow downhill resulted in toys being ejected from my pram. 

It was me that let the bike down, aside from a snapping the chain a couple of times which required a conversation to single speed for the last 40miles it coped magnificently.  My aim was to make right decision under pressure, finish the event I’d started and hopefully find the chunk of my self-confidence that had gone AWOL.  But was it hiding in the Yukon?

I surprised myself and coped well in situations where I thought I’d struggle and where I’d assumed there wouldn’t be a problem I managed to find one and as previously mentioned threw a load of toys out the pram.  It was though real marker as to where my recovery is at and in the two months since I’ve made further progress and gained a new skill – juggling.  As we’re now outnumbered in the kiddie department with three, so there’s been a tactical move from man-to-man to zonal marking.

Enjoy the programme. 

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Comments

  • Hi James. Your determination and ability to push your body beyond what is considered possible is rare and inspirational. To even commit to that race within a few months of your accident shows that your Olympic spark is there, if a little supressed at the moment.
    I am interested to know what mental preparation you did before that race, as the film mainly shows the physical. Did you consider self hypnosis? Or using New Code NLP to build in new powerful mental triggers or reactivate old ones? The mind is far more flexible and resilient than people often realise and you have a lifetime of experience to prove it. For instance; I think that the reason your pain threshold has always been high is because your mind has been so focused on the tasks at hand that there is no attention left to experience pain. If you did it before you can do it again! I look forward to seeing you excel at your next challenge. www.salamander.me.uk
    David Saville
  • Well Done James please can you tell me where i can buy your D.V.Ds as i want to send them to my Son in New Zealand
    across America and the coldest place on Earth Thank you
    Anne Dennis
  • You are a true inspiration, one in a billion.
    God speed with the rest of your recovery.
    Sam McConnell
  • You have had me glued to my seat, watching all of the 3 programs, and they were brilliant, though a little disappointed with sky with the "cropping" at the end. Your mental stamina and your physical fitness is out of this world, and have never seen anyone who can push themselves so much! You have inspired me get out there and do something! I wish you all the best in your recovery, and hope to see you soon on another amazing adventure! Congratulations on your new arrival to the Cracknell household
    Jocelyn G
  • You are a true legend and inspiration, epecially to those suffering with head injury. My brother watched your Race Across America and found some parts reminding him how far he has come and how life is for him also. He suffered his injury after a Kite Surfing accident and his dream is to cycle around Australia. I just hope after watching you he too can be inspired and one day full feel his dream and maybe kite surf again........ Absolutely Fantastic Viewing!
    Sue Flewitt
  • Amazing and inspirational and so pleased to see you are recovering, and I wish you all the best in continuing to recover well. Many congratulations on the birth of Trixie too. You are always giving me a strong incentive to seek out new challenges - am currently taking up fell running and its exhilarating! One challenge in the future that I thought may appeal to you is the Bob Graham Round? www.bobgrahamround.c o.uk.
    All the best, David U
    David Unterhalter
  • James you are an absolute inspiration to a 37 yr old ageing want to be sportsman. What you do forces me to get up and do what I can manage always knowing that however bad I feel doesn't come close to the legend, Cracknell.
    Jamie McHugh
  • I honestly cannot believe how incredible your mental strength is. The physical strength is amazing, but the programme has provided a glimpse into your mindset. Your willpower is inspirational and shows why you are a double Olympic champion.

    The physical side is truly awesome but I know that many people can train hard, however there must be a minuscule percentage of the world who can condition themselves to be as mentally strong as you are: to really really never give up. Your recovery will be another challenge and I'm sure you will defy logic once again.

    You have a wonderful wife, family friends who clearly believe in you as much as you do. Good luck & keep strong.
    Stuart
  • What an amazing story and programme. Is it safe to assume the challenge of the coldest ride on earth was completed? The programme ended abruplty without showing completion or any reflection on it, which left the viewer in complete suspense of what happened.
    David
  • I have just watched the programme an feel like so much now makes sense. My partner suffered brain injury after an attack last June, he keeps pushing against his injuries an wont accept defeat in any way. Other people look in & think nothings changed because we both smile and just deal with it-I recognise that life doesnt feel quite real anymore. I cant even explain how much its changed but it certainly has. Hes awaiting skull replacement but after watching I feel I understand what hes really going through and I also feel hes broke the odds so far like you and now I have more insight into what he needs to do for himself -like I said he doesnt complain just pushes forward with a determination I cant even grasp. Cant believe you did all that so soon you might never be exactly what you was before but you will get where you need to be, I hope you realise how much respect you deserve- you certainly have mine .
    Karen
  • You are an inspiration, truly - and never let yourself tell yourself any different! Best wishes with your recovery, your family, and whatever mad, mad thing you decide to test yourself with next.
    Karen
  • James, an inspirational achievement, well done.So many out here need your support and inspiration as they get to undersatnd what you can achieve if you put your mind to it, irrespective of the state of mind...well done, congrats on new addition.
    geoff
  • Unbelievable viewing. You are a true inspiration - your strength of character in the face of aspiration is amazing. I can only hope that my three children look to someone like you as a role model.
    caroline stradling
  • What happened at the end of the 3rd show? Sky TV footage cut out before the end.
    Andrea Hood
  • well done man.. dunno How you can fight the pain that well.. but makes me think that I wonna stop crying over some pain in my shoulder or knee and keep training .. the thing I love the most! thatnks for sharing and good luck!
    FrancescoItaly
  • You are without doubt one of the most insperational people to come out of the UK for many years. Its been amazing sharing your imense challenges through the shows and I am certain that you will be back to 110% and as strong as ever in every way soon. Congratulations with new arrival. JB
    JohnB
  • Thanks for sharing your journey with us. I feel more motivated to get out there and push myself harder, life is too short. We do need more positive role models like you in the country, here's to your next adventure !!! Take care Steph
    Steph Towers
  • what can i say, James Cracknell, what an absolute inspiration you are!!!!! watching you withstand the physical and mental pressures like you did has inspired me to try and achieve as much as i can!! keep it up James - amazing.
    justin cross
  • Saw parts 1, 2 and just seen part 3 and quite frankly you amaze me. Yes you probably have changed since that accident, at least a little, but anyone who received such an instant glimpse into their own mortality in the way you did would be a fool not to realise what they stand to lose. Please don't lose spirit, give it time and you will re-discover your old self but with an extra better, stronger element to you too.
    Dai Power
  • ATB for the new family addition! Watched 3/3 last night & your priorities/driving thoughts for this trip compared to the first 2 was obviously different because of the accident & time away from family....
    What you went through mentally is not weakness due to your accident, it's prioritisation & realisation of what we must all go through (tho magnified), in that no one is 'immortal' & we can't be @ our peak forever. Njoi your family & friends & you won't find a richer man James.... you are an inspiration for many (in particular a lazy 39 old who should know better).
    Nothing but joy to you & yours.

    Rob
    Rob Tomlinson
  • Hi James,
    I just like to tell you that you are a LEGEND!! What you can put your body through is truly amazing, your like a real live Superman! Congrats to you and Bev on the new family member! I wish you and your family all the best in the future.
    Micky J Donnelly
  • Hi James,
    You sounds like a nutter.... an awesome nutter! I am currently on my cancer journey following my diagnosis of a brain tumour in November last year. I am trying to keep myself busy with fundraising and blogging as I adjust to life in the chemo-lane. The next big charity event is a walk from Portree of the Isle of Skye to clinic in Glasgow.

    I was wondering if you fancied participating in a bit /it or send a quote which may help with media coverage and fundraising support.

    Thanks in anticipation.

    Vicky Galbraith (a.k.a. Vix)

    My blog's not quite as swanky as yours but proves to be very cathartic....
    http:// vixbigstuff.wordpres s.com/
    Vicky Galbraith
  • What a fabulous programme. When you see James in action and the quality of programme he has produced, you realise what utter toss is being shown on TV elsewhere. Keep it up James, you're truly an inspiration.
    Gary
  • Thought the programme was a rare insight about coping with head injuries and the recovery process which isn't as well documented as it should be. Had a less serious head injury 6 years ago so was really interesting to see how I must have appeared to other people. Am now fully recovered and after watching your efforts, reasy to set myself another challenge or two. Good luck with the recovery.
    Amanda
  • Congratulations James and Beverley, we are just awaiting our 1st son (now 36 hrs into labour). All these adventures...should be plenty for another great book to spur us all on with our own adventures. A real inspiration for us 'semi-pro' athletes.
    Colin
  • Congratulations on the safe arrival of Trixie. James I have found your journey on this last challenge, again to be inspirational, I was working last night and watched this with my daughter (13) about 9:30 this morning.

    I have been posting on Facebook or as I like to call it PussJotter, comments on the whole series of Unstoppable and I genuinely believe you are one of Britain's greatest athletes. I love the fact that this series showed warts and all (although didn't need the camera to show your ass..bit much), this has also inspired me to get out running more and I ran 16.5 miles last Friday following the showing of Race across America on the Thursday. I am 38 years old and the most i have ever run is a half marathon (2003), my running style isn't very good, I am a bit of a plodder, but all I could think of was the word Unstoppable. It has also been commented by my mates that they have now watched Unstoppable (first two) and they can understand why I have been banging on about it.
    Russell Copeland
  • Congratulations to you and Beverley. You may never know how many people you inspire, James, and in how many ways. I'm a 63 year old grandmother who had a load of electric shocks in mental hospital at eighteen. Something was lost, James. I know it. But I've learnt that the heart is bigger,stronger and more important than the brain. I still need inspiration from people like you. Good luck for your continuing physical and emotional journey. Brilliant programmes. Thank you.
    Maggy Rengert
  • Really inspirational! Hope everything is getting better. I'm sure you will reach you're peak again soon.
    Zach
  • Well done James, the 3 programs were very inspirational in many different ways, good luck with your continued recovery. Love to Bev and your family and congratulations with the new addition. Maybe the next challenge could be a swimming race against Bev, I'm sure she's still a class act.
    Jamie
  • Inspirational - Superb. I'm not sure the blister plasters were such a good idea though! The world needs folk like you to motivate, if only I had your determination. Good luck and thanks for an enjoyable series.
    Piers
  • great episode, not many insprirational figures in the uk these days but James C, LEGEND!!!
    you could definately see the mental torture suffered in the winter challange!!!
    hope the health has improved since, also the interview on radio1 with vernon kay was a good listen!
    defo a respected fella! top work james!
    dave in coventry
    Dave howard
  • i think this man isthe most inspiring guy i have ever seen im only 11 but due to watching race across america i hope fully will be able to complete it u are amazing and keep it up
    ewanparry
  • Awe inspiring - had not heard about your accident, but just watched the coldest race on earth and am astounded by your determination and strength. Good luck with your recovery James
    Meestar
  • You are an inspiration. You can keep going, you can achieve.
    David McG
  • Hi James
    I cant find the words, an inspiration is perhaps one Im looking for . Dont ever give in but appreciate your limits and enjoy whatever you do, this series has been an emotional pain to watch without thinking of what you went through. Take it easy my friend, enjoy your family and your next adventure. SR.
    Stuart R
  • Congratulations on the new addition! It has been immense watching you in these programmes. You are such an inspiration, I sincerely hope you continue to recover well. I'll look forward to the James Cracknell book! Be a dman thick book, but an amazing read. Good Luck James.
    Richard Wyeth
  • Congratulations on the birth of Trixie.
    Watched all 3 programmes and what an inspiration it has been!! An amazing athlete,physically and mentally.
    Thank you for sharing the experience with everyone.
    chris creedy
  • Very inspirational viewing
    Robbie Freeman
  • the 2nd show was toooooo much
    stu

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