A group ride and freewheel competition 8 October

I felt somewhat underprepared for the ride even though the organisation had taken longer than usual but in the event it turned out to be a lovely day with gorgeous autumnal colours that hadn’t been present even a week ago, excellent food at The Star Inn in Rusper and very good coffee and cake at Betchworth Post Office. Given the bread pudding at Dorking I can’t be the only one who feels the need to do another 50 miles to achieve equilibrium in calories in vs calories out. In between all that, the A’s had a very successful freewheel competition.

We left Dorking and took the most direct route to the start of the freewheel competition in Tilehurst Lane. This was a rapidly rearranged venue as Clive had discovered on Monday that Old School Lane in Brockham would be closed. 

Peter S was victorious in the men’s competition, with Ged coming in 2nd. For the ladies, Sue C came first by a long way with Fiona second. Newly designed trophies were awarded to the winners and inner tubes to those who came second.

After the competition, my group comprising Fiona, Patrick, Brian, Peter S and Clive set off for the 10 miles to Rusper but decided we’d be slightly early so added a loop (and a hill) by turning right just before Rusper. When we arrived at the Star Inn, Steve D’s group was very happy to see us as they’d been told their food wouldn’t be served until everyone had arrived. Fortunately, despite a small wait the food was plentiful and excellent.

Back on the bikes we headed South to put in a few miles before turning towards home just before Horsham. Nearing Betchworth Post Office I stopped the group to say that the Post Office now had a cafe and as a group we decided that in the interests of research we should stop and investigate the coffee and cake. All agreed that both were first class. Steve’s group spotted us and also stopped and joined us.

After that it was homeward bound via Leatherhead, the original end of the route.

It was a lovely day out in mild autumnal weather. A fun competition then cycling in good company with excellent refreshments. My thanks go to my group and in particular Peter for back marking, and to the organisers of the freewheel event.

Thanks also to Steve D for sub leading the second group. I’ll publish Steve’s report when received.