Similar to previous Wednesdays, chilly at the start of the day, leading to sunny and warm weather all day and so we had 18 B riders gather for their usual cuppa and chat with fellow riders. The warm and courteous welcome at the RBL is always something to look forward to before a ride.
The first group (Alan C, Brenda B, Dave C, Martin C, and Mick A, back-marker), left promptly at 10.30am followed by Tim G’s group (Alan I, Sabina, Bernard, Margaret M, Jane F and Peter Bt back-marking) at 10.45am and lastly John A’s group (Martina, Julie B, Grant and Terry L, back-marker), 15 mins later.
The morning ride, in terms of time, was probably one of the longest we’ve had for some time, at 2 ¾ hours. Though a reasonable 21 miles to lunch, the long climbs up High Barn Lane and Green Dene and the off-roads through Bookham Common and Drovers road, added to the time. But the rewards I’m sure outweighed the slog up the hills. The vista at Newlands Corner over the South Downs, takes some beating as does the wonderful 100m long wattle fencing at the top of High Barn Lane. Combined with empty sun dappled lanes, fresh air and jovial company, it was a beautiful day to be cycling.
Team GB at Newlands Corner
... and in action up High Barn Lane
Team Francis (minus Mick A, our official photographer)
A deserved rest and a hearty thai lunch at The Barley Mow pub, managed to revive the legs and spirits.
Just 8 riders headed to tea on the short 12 miles route to Garsons Farm while the rest all dissipated homewards for a long soak in the bath, no doubt.
Well done to everyone on the ride and a special thank you to my subbies Tim G and John A for their diligent leadership and their back-markers for keeping everyone safe on the route.
~ Francis
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for your comment. Comments are occasionally sent to the admins for approval so your comment may not appear immediately.