B group ride 13th May

 It was with trepidation that we set out from the YMCA Hawkers Centre in Kingston to The Ashley Park pub in Walton on Thames. The weather was not too promising. The first group set off in a heavy rain shower at 10:40 led by Mick A who had kindly volunteered to lead a sub group comprising Tony H (who left us in Bushy Park), Fixie Dave, Tim G, Jane  F  and Paul J.

After a littlle debate about the weather, my group was reduced to 3 riders, Gill F, John A and myself, we followed Tony's sinuous route via Bushy Park, Thames Ditton, Claygate and Esher to our destination. In Claygate during another heavyish shower John decided to call it a day. I also was having second thoughts, and Gill decided to carry on to the pub alone. After showing John a way back to Ewell, I had a change of heart and decided I should carry on a more direct route to the Ashley Park, where I met up with the rest of the group. 

 

We had a good lunch at the pub and five remaining riders set off to The Old Moat for tea. Unfortunately I punctured in Hersham, this was soon repaired with the help of Paul with his electric pump. I then discovered that the replacement tube was also deflating slowly, but was able to continue with a few stops to pump and dash.

Overall the weather was kind to us, with quite a few moments of bright sunshine. Thanks to Tony for the route out and too all for your company on a somewhat trying day, especially Mick who stepped in to sub-lead at short notice.

Following is Micks report: 

Keith had kindly agreed to take over lead of the ride as Tony could not do so.  He lead the 10:50 group with Mick sub-leading the 10:40 group.

 

The 10:40 left on time in freezing rain.  Myself, Tony, Fixie Dave, Jane, Paul J with Tim G backmarking.  As we looped round into Bushy park the rain subsided and the sun came out, the rain was back later.  As usual Tony had devised an interesting route on quiet roads and paths.  Although he was not able to do the full ride he communicated the route through RwGPS/gpx which Mick was able to follow with the help of the group. 

 

Six of us reached the pub where the remainers of the other group Keith, Gill F and Don E joined us. After lunch Gill and Don and Jane headed for home so Mick, Fixit Dave, Paul, Tim G and Keith set off towards the Old Moat.  Keith punctured but Fixie Dave was at hand to hold a pump so it was partially fixed.  Keith still had a slow puncture so he, flanked by Dave setoff for home.  Mick, Paul and Tim were the only three to make the Old Moat.