Day five - overview

Today was a relatively easy day, particularly compared to 'the day that shouldn't be mentioned (day 3)'.  The boys followed the path alongside Lake Garda and took lots of opportunities to stop for cold drinks and to take in the wonderful view of the Lake and surrounding areas.  The day was relatively quiet - no-one got stuck in any toilets, no-one fell off their bike and the only excitement was Kyle's birthday present of a pair of extra-special Italian speedoes being proudly worn in the group photo at the start of the day (not sure that the blog readers are ready to see this in print).

Adrian:  another easy day – only 68 miles with a Stewie special waiting for us at the bottom in Lake Garda (nice hill - ed.).  I’m unsure if I can afford the therapy required to remove the image of Kyle wearing his new budgie smugglers from my mind!

Stu:  Day 5 today:  it was everything that I wanted it to be – sunny, relaxed, one real climb at the end and only 67 miles from start to finish.  The views were stunning as we made our way along the edge of Lake Garda.  Bring on the big climb tomorrow!

George's lungs are still working (hurrah says his wife, and the GP in Chorleywood).  He's enjoying Paul's inadvertent comedy act, which keeps everyone's spirits up.  He's also promised to bring his wife back to visit Lake Garda (he doesn't know this yet - his wife has just decided this).

Jamie:  Day 5: Lake Garda to Trento (68 miles) – We were surrounded by phenomenal views, cycling round Lake Garda today. At lunch, Paul  and I went for a swim while the other lads worked on their tans before hitting the bikes and powering through t

o Trento. We are now at the foot of the Alps and have two very difficult days ahead of us with stupid amounts of climbing. Thanks everyone for your support so far.

Paul managed to get through the day without getting stuck in any more public toilets and enjoyed the ride along the lake.  His comedy road-show rolls on - he'll be looking to get some dates at the Apollo Hammersmith on his return to the UK.

Steve: is getting into the swing of things and is loving the Italian food.  He's getting a bit fed up of George's bad jokes, but that's to be expected.

Tomorrow brings the next big climb.  The mountains can be seen in the background of one of two of the photos from today's cycle - lurking and calling the boys on... bring on the Alps!