B group ride report Wednesday 23rd July 2025

It’s great when a plan comes together isn’t it? And that is what happened yesterday; perfect cycling weather, great group dynamics, nice scenery, and an excellent pub with a most hospitable landlord. Pete B and Paula had kindly agreed to sublead so we were all set. Groups departed after excellent 11’s served by the very cheerful (and patient) ladies at the Dorking Christian Centre.

From Pete:

This area has always been a favourite of mine and when the chance of sub leading arose I jumped at it.

I was asked before our departure from Dorking :- Are there any hills Pete? No I replied but I could always add a few if you so wish. But sadly, my kind offer was declined, can’t think why!!

Anyhow, on our approach to Weare St I diverted my group into Ockley Farm shop where I and one other stocked up on a few goodies.

To my surprise when we arrived at the little pond halfway down Weare St we came across the 2nd  group in the middle of a photo stop which we subsequently photo bombed. All done in the best possible way.

All good fun.

Then it was on to Warnham for a lovely lunch.

There was no call for afternoon tea so it was up the Zigzag and home.

All in all a most enjoyable ride.

Thank you to you all.

From Paula:

Paula’s group of eight set off second and had a very lovely ride with no mishaps or diversions. We stopped at Holbrook for a photo with Fixie’s friend the goose when Pete’s group (who set off first) turned up after a detour to buy jam. Which led to this mass photo (Fixie was rude to his friend so he had gone swimming instead!)

Sue’s report:

No offence to the riders in other groups  but I really felt we were the elite team out on the road on Wednesday. Our peloton of 6 ( Terry, Grant, Fixie, Paul, Tim C and myself) flew through the lanes to Warnham. The only thing that could have impeded our progress was a large branch that fell onto the road literally seconds before we approached and would surely have brought down a rider. Anyway the cycling gods were watching over us and we emerged  unscathed.

A delicious lunch was served quickly at the Sussex Oak and we were soon on our way again. There were a few KOM points available on the Col du Rusper taken by Mr Court who swooped up past me so Polka Dots to him. Some good sprints from Paul J so  the Green jersey is his. Yellow jersey to Terry who managed an amazing ride given his recent recovery from surgery. Combative rider award goes to Grant and, whilst I realise I am possibly straying into difficult territory here, Best Young Rider, to Fixie who can polish off a plate of fish and chips like a teenager. 

An excellent day out. Thank you all. 

Sue F 

Directeur sportif