Tuffs on Tour Majorca April 2022

Brilliant time, brilliant friends, shattered legs!

Back in 2021, Michael Barrett put forward his desire to go on Tuff Training Camp. After various comings and goings, eventually 11 Intrepid Tuffs embarked on our epic Tuffs on Tour Majorca trip.

Judging by the number of great reports and the discussion already of next year’s trip and which villa to book, the trip was a huge success.

More images and videos can be found here.

Oh yes – sorry for filling your Strava feeds last weekend…

Michael Barrett

Pre-Trip get together dinner was organised post Frosty

As we juggle organising, Jenny was quick to take lead and organise us and a few of the key issues we faced, car hire, bike hire, pool access, routes and stuff. The WhatsApp group was sorted and plenty of chat flowed.

Pre-Flight phone call

With Covid still nibbling we organised a group call for everyone, we ran through the itinerary and what had been organised, including how we would get to the airport.

Wednesday Morning

My alarm was probably the first at 4:30am, Got to Jon’s house for a 5:30 taxi to the airport which was taking 8 Tuffs. The others: Dom, Alice and Susan had different arrangements.

Gatwick was busy but not as busy as previous years. With breakfast and coffee on the agenda we set off to group up.

Smooth flight out, a mixture of hand baggage only and hold luggage all worked well. No bikes as these were being hired out there. And, with Bike helmets strapped to backpacks just about knocking every passenger and staff going out of the way, we arrived in Majorca.

When we landed, to give an understanding how much fun we had as a group, we roared with laughter when, one by one we turned around to watch Jenny foot tapping the water station in the airport and, as the foot tapping continued (for some time) we soon began to realise that she was pumping her water bottle with Hand Sanitizer. We did laugh… and it still makes me laugh now.

Waiting, with our Tour Guide and Captains name on his board was our booked taxi driver. A short 35 minute journey and we arrived at Tuff Tours.

We couldn’t have asked for more as the newly refurbished villa was perfect including a short 12 meter cold salt watered pool. With the boys down one end and the girls upstairs above the Olivers, all were happy. The boys proceeded to be as messy as they could and Jon was officially christening the toilet. While I looked after my room mate with coffee and he mentioned that he was a bit sore from the Brighton Marathon.

Iris was in charge of the shopping and set about sorting us all out with food and drink.

A few tested the pool while a few of us went to the edges of a planned run route to see if the sea could be seen. A short 5k loop or 10k out and back which turned into 12k after a few wrong turns.

Evening meal was prepared and we all sat around chatting, Dom mentioned the Brighton Marathon, and we went on to discuss our planned and changeable itinerary, a short while later after an early start it was time for bed.

Thursday Run Day

Thursday’s plan was fluid, RunSmartOnline by Jen and Adrian (now branded as JenAde), then Iris stepped up with a strength and conditioning class, followed by some light yoga by Alice. Next up was group breakfast, the weather was windy and chilly not ideal, our plan was to run to the beach, about 8k and then swim; followed by lunch and then a gentle run back. The run out was steady at 6 minute/kph pace and was ideal for the runners while a few others took the car.

At the beach, one glance at the sea and our sea swimming expert Susan and Nicole backed us out, it was a surfers paradise, not a swimmers delight so we proceeded to find a restaurant for a spot of lunch! Paella! And (duly noted) a couple of beers were ordered! The heavens opened and it poured, the sea looked angrier and we all got cold! Then as if ordered by Adrian and his Weather App the weather broke and we were back running at a very slow 7 minute pace. A smaller group as a few runners were offered a lift which worked perfectly. Well done Iris on doing both legs of the run at 16k in total and to young Sam who last ran in 2021. (And a nod to Jon, Adrian and Dom, we held back a little as Dom was telling us he was sore from doing the Brighton Marathon).

Back now at the villa and pool dipping

Dinner was being prepared and the talk quickly turned to the delivery of bikes for tomorrow and where and who is going with who. Dinner, Beer, Wine, Gin and Tonic and Desperado was high on the consumption. Question of the day was born! And Claire became our Queen!

Friday bike delivery day

RunSmartOnline by Jen and Adrian (now branded as JenAde), then Iris stepped up with a strength and conditioning class, followed by some light yoga by Alice; Breakfast

Ride to pool, check we can leave bikes in Pool area

Ride back to the villa

Get changed

Captain Faff, get’s his name after a double puncture

Ride back to the pool

Swim

Ride back to the villa

Ride out to the coast with Alice

Tapas (Jon asks Mike to order, Mike turns to the waiter, one of each please, Mike and Jon wet themselves laughing)

Double beer ordered and we learn from Alice what the American say when you have a two beers in your hand!

Then a fast beer fuelled return leg to the villa

Dinner, Beer, Wine, Gin and Tonic and Desperado was high on the consumed, Question of the day, ohhhh the lies people say! And the laughs.

Saturday

RunSmartOnline by Jen and Adrian (now branded as JenAde), then Iris stepped up with a strength and conditioning class, followed by some light yoga by Alice; Breakfast

Our tour guide had predicted bad weather and was he was ready to start faffing before we convinced us to join us as the four amigos and we set off to conquer a 5000m mountain, the others hung around the villa and were later taken by Alice to the coast for Coffees; Our mountain ride was all about the switch backs, with the first part being without traffic it was beautiful, the weather had changed and we sailed up. We regrouped before we hit the road which provided a much easier route up as the switch backs were longer and less steep. At the top a café was found with, I think the best coffee of the trip. Adrian and Dom found cake. Dom told us about his Brighton Marathon.

A raucous evening meal with lots of chat about the misadventures today and with beer running out to be replaced by wine, it fuelled a conversation that somehow had me waking up panicking because Dom and I had managed to convince the whole group to ride our switch back mountain.

Sunday was penultimate day

RunSmartOnline by Jen and Adrian (now branded as JenAde), then Iris stepped up with a strength and conditioning class, followed by some light yoga by Alice; Breakfast

We took the group to switch back mountain with a vision to get back in time to swim, and then complete a half marathon to support some of the Tuffs at home. To our delight the weather was good and we set off at a very leisurely 14kph pace , at the foot of our switch back as the group, ladies included, offload fluid!! Ready to climb. No not that sort of water!

And with Adrian at the back looking after Nicole the group began to spin, up and up we went, Dom led us up closely followed by Alice, I nursed Iris and Sam through the first part before catching up with Jon. At the half way point we regrouped and a few of us came back down to support Nic who was already virtually at the top. Everyone was up and the hard bit done! Ready for the next bit, a little less challenging on the main road. Off we went only to be passed by one car! Yes just one car, as the faster riders grouped at the top and taking in the views… we spun round to the sounds of Iris whooping and a massive grin, not far away was Sam, and then closely followed by Claire,  Nicole and Adrian. I don’t think they stopped grinning all day.

A coffee and cake stop, with Iris two coffees, Sam befriending a cat, Nic and Claire still smiling … it was time to get us back, the easy bit. With long sweeping switch backs and smiles on everyone’s face we all arrived safely at the bottom.

The group split and the faster riders with Claire in tow set off…. Arriving back at the villa it was a quick change and those wanting to ride to swimming set off into a heavy head wind whilst the rest of the group drove.

Arriving at swimming all aching it was a mild and poor attempt by some of us at swimming lengths in the 50m pool

Riding back after lunch and a beach pano photo opportunity , the wind had switched and we headed back to the villa into another head wind. I grumble.

As we all arrive back at the villa we gather our thoughts on the previous evening plans of a half!!! With leg and shoulders burning it was agreed that we’d make it a steady 10k, 5k out and back! The four amigos grouped at the entrance and with Dom wearing his Brighton Marathon t-shirt (which he earned just by telling us he’d done the Marathon) we set off. Dam it hurt, ouch ouch ouch the first 2k was tuff! But this is what we came for, a moderate pace was being set by Jon and Dom at 5:05 and as we turned at the 5k point it was relief that the wind was at last in our favour. It was hot and steady at a similar pace back.

Relief as the Tuff Towers came into view and we were done, and par-tay… cold beers and feet dipped in the pool, Claire departed through the Tuff Tunnel of love and a whole bunch of kudos, and new friends for life.

The rest of us well… Monday was spent recovering from beer, wine, sangria and the previous day. Jon with hangover somehow proceeded to run 5k around the grounds of the villa. Iris did her workout on her own!

Did Jon throw up? What goes on tour stays on tour!

I know one thing, when I set this trip up, little did I imagine how successful it would be, how beautiful the people who came were, and how true friends can be, it was an absolute pleasure for me to be part of this trip. An adventure full of positive memories. It leaves me to say there is now only 11 months left till we go again! And I can’t wait.

Claire, you are my Queen of the trip, the way you rode the mountain, you swam and you ran, you are my legend and my friend.

Jon, I knew you a little and now I feel like I know you a lot, I feel I can be honest with you and you’d treat me with confidence. Thank you!

Sam, you arrived a boy and it felt like you went home a man, a challenge on it’s own with a dad in tow, but you and your Dad’s relationship meant you became just another member of the team and it was a pleasure spending this time with you.

Dom, my roomie for life, a rock, my riding partner and also confidence, I’ll never get tired of hearing about the Brighton Marathon.

Susan, the dark horse, the quiet spoken lady from the North, the group will always have your stories and life adventures with us.

Nicole, you came and you conquered, you did it, I absolute adore your company and chatting.

Iris, could’ve, should’ve, would’ve, and you did… You ran and you swam and you too rode that mountain. And if you’re not doing nothing, then you’re doing something. Thank you for shopping and organising everyone and for finishing and translating my sentences.

Alice, move to Worthing so we can see you more, it was an absolute pleasure spending this time with you, don’t give up the Triathlon and make sure you come back next year.

Jenny, thank you for everything, the organising and backbone to our group without you we’d have fallen apart. Big hugs.

Adrian, saving the best to last. What can I say that hasn’t been said. Our Captain Faff, the Duracell bunny with an on and off switch; the holiday was good, but you made it great!

I think this will become an annual road trip and, whilst Tuffs will come and go, we will always be the first and we will share this life long memory forever. I for one, feel I’ve made friends for life. Love to you all.

Michael

Clare M

“The chatter on the WhatsApp page seemed to increase which must mean that the time was getting close.

This tour has been in the planning for quite a while and the names changed as some couldn’t make it, but in the end 11 Tuffs went on tour.

We arrived at the airport and managed to find each other in time to have breakfast before the flight and with a smooth transition we were soon all seated and ready for take off. The flight was short and soon we were in Palma airport and in the taxi. A short ride and we had found the villa and what a great choice it was too. Greeted by the landlord we were shown around and told how to use things. We all found our rooms and settled in.

It was then a run or car drive for a sea swim, which unfortunately did not happen as we were greeted with 6ft waves and the rain had started. We were lucky enough to find a nice cafe were we had food and drinks watching the rain and thunder and making plans for the rest of the trip.

For 11 people who didn’t really know each other that well we all got on well and each had skills that made all the housekeeping tasks easy. Ladies taking turns to cook, men loading the dishes and providing drinks. Michael on the morning egg routine and Iris doing the shopping. There were laughs from all corners of the villa.

Our daily routine was strength and conditioning, Iris’s personal training plan and some yoga stretches with Alice then breakfast. This was followed by either a swim or bike ride and sometimes a run. Everyone had the opportunity to say what they wanted to do and we managed to include everyone’s abilities. Once plans were set different groups went off on their merry way and returned to enjoy an evening meal and Michael’s question of the day.

I have got to know everyone so much more and it has been lovely. There has been some great coaching tips shared, some good group riding and I have enjoyed every minute.

Thank you for coming up with the idea and allowing me to be part of it and I can’t wait for the next one.”
Claire

DOM AMEY

The Tuff Mallorca training camp was a fantastic mini break, it was so good to get away to smooth quiet roads (and considerate, bike friendly drivers), a beautiful 50m outdoor pool and mild, (mostly) dry weather conditions.

Excellent accommodation and fabulous Tuff friends new and old.

I’d thoroughly recommend it to anyone considering it for next time, some structure if you want it but total flexibility if you don’t, although the final night dance off was not to be missed 🙂

Dom

IRIS B

I’m not really sure where to start but the holiday began early on Wednesday morning as we made our way to the airport. Jon kindly offered me some luggage space to save me being charged £36 for excess luggage. A smooth flight into Palma and short transfer we arrived at our villa, which I have to say surpassed my expectations. It was amazing and suited us very well.

I was apprehensive about how ‘tough’ I was going to find the training and whether I had booked myself onto the wrong holiday, but I needn’t have worried. The day started with stability and strength followed by breakfast and a lunchtime activity. Running back on paella was not the greatest of ideas! The days went so quickly that dinner was fairly late and daily promises of no drinking and an early night were futile!

The 50m pool was a first for me and I actually loved it. I didn’t tire like I thought I would and it enabled me to get into a rhythm.

Cycling the mountain (yes, mountain) was epic. So pleased that most of us could be in a group ride and achieve the climb to the top. Very grateful to those far more capable for their support and encouragement. After a coffee, or two and cake we made our way back down. This was on super Sunday when swimming was next followed by a run for some and a trip to Porto Cristo and the beach for others!

As a group we had a lot of fun, question of the night became a thing as did hiding from mosquitos while trying to sleep!

Spending time getting to know the group, all with common interests was valued. The fact that getting back to normal life has been tough, I think is testament to the great time we shared.

Thanks to all that worked hard in the organising and booking and to all for being fabulous company.

Iris

NICOLE E

I had a great time with Tuffs in Majorca, everything was taken care of from beautiful villa, bike hire, swim to food and drink.

It was a super experience for me as I never felt any pressure to do anything I was not quite up for.

The company was amazing, lovely roomy and lots of laughs and fun all round.

Thank you to all who made it happen.

Nicole

SUSAN D

Not quite sure what I was doing on a Triathlon training trip considering I’m not a very good runner and haven’t ridden a bike for two years! At least I can swim a bit.

Unfortunately it was rather windy, so sea swimming was out, but luckily there was a 50m pool just down the road. I even cycled there once.

I wasn’t in the same league as the others on the bike and running, but was kindly supported on the outings I joined in on and not left behind.

Before the trip I had images of the Big Brother House going through my mind, but there was no Nasty Nick or dramatic exits. Actually it was a pleasure to spend time with and get to know my fellow Tuffs. We helped each other out, laughed a lot and drank a beer or two.

I’d definitely recommend this trip no matter what your abilities. Majorca was a lot greener than I thought it would be and also some lovely wildlife…I saw some flamingos!!

Susan

Susan kindly created a song playlist

Song Title	Artist	Tuff
Jonathan	D J Arafat	Jon
Iris	Split Enz/Goo Goo Dolls	Iris
Switchboard Susan	Nick Lowe	Susan
Jenny Jenny	Tommy Tutone	Jenny
Dominic The Donkey	Lou Monte	Dom
Mike-up again	Bag Only	Mike
Clare	Fairground Attraction	Clare
Samual	Circe Lahtinen	Sam
Nicole	Ash	Nicole
Adrian	Eurythmics	Adrian
Living Nextdoor to Alice	Smokie	Alice
Going Gets Tuff	The Growlers	Tuffs

JENNY O

What more can I say (or mime 😉 )?…

It was exciting to be picked up by the minibus for an early start and in my eagerness to chat above the noise of the engine I got off to a good start by losing my voice! Never mind, it came back by evening in time for Mike’s question of the day.

We had 3 swims at the Best Swimming Centre 50m pool. The pool was salt water and a nice temperature. It was a treat to swim with plenty of space and also to see talented youngsters in training. Alice used Adrian’s GoPro to film our stroke and could be seen seemingly endlessly hovering on the bottom of the pool as we swam by! Unfortunately we weren’t able to swim in the sea as there was exceptional waves, but it looked spectacular!

We hired bikes from a company called Papagayo (which means Parrot!). We were duly delivered with 11 quality road bikes with efficient and friendly support. As I experience breathing issues on exertion, I was uncertain how a group ride would work out. I needn’t have worried as on two days I thoroughly enjoyed rides based on Alice’s routes. A highlight was a long straight stretch drafting on Alice’s wheel which was a blast and of course café stops! The roads in Majorca were good and motorists were very considerate giving wide clearance. Shout out to Alice, Claire and Jon who made sure I didn’t completely fall off the back on the hills!

It was disappointing not to be able to join the mountain ride as riding the mountains in Chiang Mai is a fond memory, but there was still plenty of opportunities and I can reassure anyone who is nervous about having to ‘keep up’ that you will be looked after. A sweetener was a leisurely bike down to the beach with Susan to take in the seaside conservation area, flamingos, salt flats and the obligatory café.

The final evening and talking above the music I ended the trip as I had started with no voice!

So for the last word… a beautiful area, superb villa, fabulous food, amazing friends and brilliant activities – what’s not to like?!

Thank you to each and every one, and looking forward to next year’s adventures!

Jenny

ADRIAN OLIVER

JON BABBAGE