Club Runs Diary - 2009
Sunday 6th December
Waking up to heavy rain, a club run seemed like an unenticing prospect. But as 10AM approached, the weather suddenly cleared away to bright sunshine, helped by a strong westerly breeze! It was enough to lure nine riders to the Pond House for December's introductory run: Per Porter, Abe Sharp, Andy Brown, Mark Merriman, Jim Alexander, David Lambourne, Andy Broadbent, and new faces Chris (recently migrated to Bray from inside the M25) and Suzane (from Brazil, via Slough). With Mike confined to his sickbed, Per was appointed run-meister, and the wet-weather route was decreed.
Champing at the bit, Per and Abe led the group away from the Pond House at a (slighly too) lively pace, but after Woodlands Park we hunkered down into the headwind and settled in for the long haul out to the south-west. Through Shurlock Row and Hurst, and then a few minutes' respite at the traffic lights in Winnersh. At the mini-roundabout just after passing under the M4, Dave and Andy turned for home. The rest of us carried on through Arborfield Cross to Swallowfield. A quick loop around some narrow and splashy lanes brought the wind to our backs and we prepared to enjoy a quick blast home, which indeed it turned out to be. The idea of a cafe stop was briefly considered, but with Chris having optimistically promised to be home by 12.30 to entertain friends over lunch, and with not too many miles to go, we just kept rolling!
Up over Farley Hill and left onto the A327. A slight deviation from the standard WWR, past Arbofield Garrison and Barkham, kept the 'regulars' on their toes! Then we retraced our tyre tracks through Winnersh, bypassing Hurst at a steady wind-assisted 25mph to fetch up all of a sudden at Twyford station. From here, the route back via Waltham St Lawrence, always a good'un with a tail-wind, was chosen. Per left us at White Waltham, and Jim at Woodlands Park; the remaining five headed back to the Pond House. Andy took off down the A4 and comfortably got their first; we were all back at a time that should have comfortably prevented Chris from getting into too much trouble!
Distance covered 40 miles at an average of 16.4 mph. No stops, no cakes, no punctures!
A.S.
Sunday 29th November
A very wet day indeed and just two riders at the Pond House, namely Mike Inder and Dave Lambourne. No suprises that the numbers were diminished, so off we set to the wet weather route. Conditions were most wet from beneath until we got to Winnersh were Dave turned for home leaving Mike to solo it somewhere!
Deciding to track back via Twyford, Crazies Hill and Henley for a return home via Marlow, where the heavens really opened. A day to stay indoors!
Distance covered was 45 miles at an average speed of 18 mph.
M.I.
Sunday 22nd November
Nine brave or foolhardy riders gathered under threatening skies as the sun disappeared behind the grey clouds in the car park of the Pond House. They were Andy Brown, Mike Mills, David Lambourne, Per Porter, Martin Porter, John Nicholls, Paul Redman, Andy Sykes and Mark Merriman. As a couple of riders had to be home early and the threat of rain was increasing we decided that we would use "The David Lambourne Wet Weather Route". As we left Maidenhead the drizzle started and we were soon splashing through the Walthams and Shurlock Row!
At the end of Hungerford Road we turned right towards Ruscombe and Twyford for a short while before turning left into Hinton Road and then School Lane. From Hurst we rode on towards Winnersh where we splashed across the A329 by Sainsburys. Not long afterwards David decided that his legs were too sore to carry on the ride and turned for home. The ride splashed on past Nirvana and as we got to the roundabout by Arborfield Cross Per,Martin and Paul also turned for home and other commitments.
Heading straight over the roundabout and down the hill we soon got to the Blackwater River bridge which was looking slippery due to lots of fallen leaves! At Swallowfield we turned left and Mike had to stop to put his chain back on before carrying on to Risely where we turned left and left again down the lane back to the bridge over the river. Up Bungler's Hill to Farley Hill the ride briefly split, but was soon reformed and we carried on to the A327 where we turned left back towards Arborfield Cross.
With Mark on the front the pace went up and this continued all the way back to Winnersh where, fortunately,the traffic lights were at red! Mike asked if a cafe stop was wanted, but as everyone was soaking wet we decided to pass on drinks and cake - DOH! As we got to Hurst and turned sharp right Mark misheard and we had to wait whilst he turned round and caught up! This was to be repeated as we got to Hungerford Road as despite a loud "Left" from Mike Mark went straight on and yet again we had to wait. Still,any excuse to slow down was welcome!! Before long we were turning on to the A4 and a less frantic than usual sprint ensued up Punt Hill with,of course, Andy being first into the car park!
Distance covered was 40 miles at an average speed of 17.5 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 15th November
Although there had been rain and the roads were wet, the sun was shining as eight riders gathered at the Pond House. They were Andy Brown, Ruth Martin, Martin Porter, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Ian Carswell, Mark Merriman and Michael Pinchen. Hoping the good weather was going to last we set off for the Chilterns and a cafe stop. Through the Walthams and on to Ruscombe and Twyford where for a change we got a green traffic light! Needless to say the traffic at the Wee Waif roundabout on the A4 brought us to a halt before we could carry on to Sonning. Up until now the ride had held an orderly formation of which Coach Lambourne would have almost been proud, but as we started up Playhatch Martin suddenly came to the front and was soon chased by Andy,Mark and Michael!
After regrouping at the green we turned left and along the lanes we played Dodgems with a Sunday morning idiot driver - much to John's annoyance. At the Bird in Hand pub we crossed over the road from Sonning Common and then turned right to head towards Gallowstree Corner where we turned left. As we rode up Lazy Hill Martin thought we were going to turn right towards the Maharajah's Well, but instead we carried straight on and then right at the T-junction! Shortly after that we turned left at the sign for Goring and after a long uphill drag we turned right for Woodcote. By the village hall we turned left and started down Cat's Brain Hill and were soon enjoying a fast descent until we were slowed by a van giving way - DOH!!! This meant we lost all the momentum just as we neared a hill and you could hear the gears being crunched or the struggles of those who chose to stay on the big ring!
At the Pangbourne road we turned right towards Benson and the cafe, but Andy decided to delay us with a puncture! Fortunately the sun was still shining as we waited for the repairs and of course he was nowhere as fast as Jim Alexander. On our way again and the speed increased as we got on the fast road towards Benson with Michael on the front, but Andy had missed what ever had caused the puncture and we were soon standing at the side of the road again as puncture number two was fixed!
Meanwhile Michael had the bit between his teeth and not realising he was on his own disappeared up the road and only noticed when he got to the cafe! Just as we started off again Michael reappeared and we all made our to the cafe where we gathered outside in the pleasantly warm sunshine with coffee/tea and cakes - no ham sandwich for Ruth this time.
Before long it was back on the bikes and on to the B4009 through the village of Benson and then Watlington where you could see the apprehension on some faces in case Mike had planned turning right up the steep hill to Christmas Common. Luckily for the ride we carried straight on and then turned right on to the A40 and began the climb up Stokenchurch Hill. At the top we turned right towards Christmas Common and then left for a blast down Pishill and Andy's Third puncture of the day!!! After repairs we carried on to Henley where Ruth had to stop and buy some food.
Martin and Ian left us at the bridge to make their own way back and the rest of us rode up Remenham Hill and then turned right to cut through to the A4 at Knowl Hill. Back on the A4 the pace slowly increased as we neared Maidenhead and John managed the traffic better at the Thicket roundabout to lead the way for the sprint up Punt Hill. Unfortunately his tactics didn't work as Andy,Michael and Mike went past on the hill and Andy was first back to the Pond House.
Distance covered was 60 miles at an average of 16.5 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 8th November
After last week's washout ten brave souls gathered at the Pond House under very threatening skies! They were Andy Brown, Dave Lambourne, Ruth Martin, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Abe Sharp, Henry Tapper, Mark, Paul and Michael Pinchen - the last two had not ridden with us before. We decided to ride the "Dave Lambourne Wet Weather Route" in case the rain put in an appearance. Mike and Andy led the way and the rest seemed reluctant to leave the car park - must have been Dave's chat holding their attention! Finally we all formed a neat column of pairs as we headed out through the Walthams and round to Ruscombe where we turned left over the railway and then left at the roundabout to go down the hill past the winery and right into Hinton Road.
Hurst came and went and we were soon on the road to Winnersh where we crossed the A329 by Sainsburys. As we got to Arborfield Cross it was almost 11 am and we all dismounted and joined the Remembrance Day service that the Arborfield Royal British Legion was conducting. After a moving service we remounted and made our way through the traffic that had halted for the minutes silence and headed down hill towards Swallowfield and crossed over the Blackwater River. At the T-Junction Mike decided that as the rain was holding off we would add the extra loop out to Mortimer onto the ride. Due to traffic and the front of the ride forgetting to wait there was a gap with three or four riders off the back, but the others had to wait at the next turn - that'll teach 'em!
We raced down Beech Hill to Mortimer and this was where Dave turned for home. As we left Mortimer we had to stop for Ruth to open a reluctant energy bar and Henry grasped the chance for a fag - will he never learn! Down the hill and through Burghfield with Mike on the front trying to inject some pace we were halted by an over zealous plastic policeman who thought we needed far more room to pass some traffic,near a church,than we really did! For a change we all got across the A33 and started up the hill though Three Mile Cross and then retraced our route until we got to Risely where we followed the narrow lane back to the narrow bridge over the Blackwater River.
At this point Henry started asking,in a plaintive voice,"How far to the cafe?" and Mike said it was about 10 miles or so! His disappointment was added to when we got to Bungler's Hill and a race for the top ensued - Andy won that! Back to Arborfield Cross and on towards Winnersh where Mark had the only puncture of the day - and out came Henry's fags again!!! Fortunately we were only slowed down for a few minutes and were back on our way to the cafe at Dinton Pastures for tea/coffee/cake and Ruth's ham sandwich.
All too soon we were back on the road for home. Back through the Walthams the pace picked up as we neared the A4 and Abe went for a very long one,but to no avail! Three or four riders shot past him and Andy(I think - too far behind) was first into the car park.
Distance covered was 54 miles at an average of 17.4 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 25th October - Hertfordshire Dusk to Dawn
True to form this writer was the last of the 11 riders to arrive at Beaconsfield for one of the Velo's occasional long-ish rides, this one being a hilly route planned into Hertfordshire. In attendance: Mike Mills, Jim "short sleeves and bare legs" Alexander, Andy S, Ruth, Derwent, John, Andy B, Ian "The Map" Carswell, Henry and Tim. The weather was forecast to be sunny and breezy from the south-west, which proved true of the latter but the early cloud refused to dissipate and seemed to look a bit too threatening at times. Out via Seer Green, Chalfont St. Giles with the wind on our backs and the pace steady we headed North East, taking in Latimer, Flaunden and Feldon where Andy Sykes was suddenly seen at the side of the road inspecting his frame from an upside-down position (the bike, not Andy). Not happy with some creaks and groans he decided to head for home, reducing the group by one to 10.
We headed onwards and upwards (a common theme) to Potten End, being passed by the Hemel club run, Ruth itching to take them on and prove who was fastest up a hill ... steady girl! Puncture 1 of 4 was at Water End courtesy of Henry, Ian wisely deciding to press on and wait at the TOP of the hill. Duly sorted, progress was halted not 100 yds further from the same rider and wheel. After much discussion and pocket searching, it was found that the same inner tube had been replaced at the first puncture. Only 20 miles in and Ruth was already muttering of caffeine deficiency, not to worry we said - just another 30 miles to the stop! A few more valleys came and went, with a few extras thrown in thanks to going off course in rather a large way (south instead of north) at Kimpton. No matter, it was head down and press on in an attempt to make up time.
Puncture 3 was Jim this time, fixed in no time but again stopping all too soon afterwards as offending flint had not been removed from the tyre. Oh dear! Lunch was now beckoning and a few of us could obviously smell the coffee as the pace lifted and the group stretched/split. At a key junction the front boys turned left without checking behind - leaving a few heads to be scratched and a few more expletives uttered from the distanced riders. Luckily they made the right choice and we all made it safe to Church Farm Ardeley. Jim had plenty to say on the etiquette of the club ride and several riders were left to eat ample portions of humble pie prior to the feast of fruit scones, cake and coffee laying in wait. Sorry Jim! The four punctures had eaten right into any contingency time left for dawdling as we now were faced with 50 miles in 3 hours back over the hills into a headwind, with tired legs, to make it back before dark! A challenge indeed.
Navigating around Stevenage and Knebworth proved worthwhile as we made up a bit of time, but the wind was really not playing ball and at one point was joined by a sharp shower - nice! Retracing our steps at a steady pace to keep the group together proved a challenge as the fitter ones were keen to still contest the hills. We got into a good routine though, of easing off at the tops to allow a regroup. As we got closer to home the need to navigate via map lessened but the sun was dipping a bit too fast towards the horizon. Ian had been craftily pacing himself all day and was seen to be whizzing up the climbs with aplomb - nice one.
At Feldon, during one of our regroups, Tim was evangelising Jelly Babies so we all took his advice and helped ourselves. A few had run out of supplies so a few handouts were also issued. A bit of main road lining out was required between Chenies and Little Chalfont, but the elastic was stretching a bit too far, with 2nd wheel Ruth yelling at Mike I to ease off. With the light fading fast the last climb of the day was a narrow single track affair with pot-holes aplenty which certainly put the bike handling skills of Andy and Ruth to the test who almost clattered into each other.
The last section from Seer Green back to Beaconsfield was run off in near darkness so we dispatched anyone with rear lights to the back and front lights to the .... front! Henry was the man at the front but pushed on a bit "too" much and sailed off into the distance. John and Andy turned directly for home, as did Tim. Derwent decided his Mum's was the best option nearby and the rest loaded bikes to cars.
Distance 106.6 miles from Beaconsfield to Beaconsfield. Unknown average.
Tim won the long distance award by stretching his ride to 128+ miles!!!
M.I.
Sunday 18th October
With grey skies and wind blowing the outlook was none too promising as eleven riders gathered at the Pond House. They were Andy Brown, Derwent Jeffery, Martin Lambert, Dave Lambourne, Ruth Martin, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Anthony Snyman (welcome back Anthony), Paul Todd and Mark. After a briefing from Coach Lambourne on how to change the riders on the front of the ride to give them a rest and make sure everyone shares the work, we set off.
Out through Cookham,Bourne End and into Marlow where Anthony turned for home as he missed a lot of riding and was being sensible. At Quoting Square we turned right to start up "Platt's Hill" where Mike managed to drop his chain between the two chainrings and had to play "catch up" for most of the climb! When he caught Dave up they rode to the top of the climb together and rejoined the ride. On to Frieth and Fingest where we turned right for our old friend Windmill Hill and Mike reminded John that this was the easiest of the four hills!
We stopped to admire the view of the valley below and then headed on to Stokenchurch and turned left onto the A40 where Dave announced he was going home via Christmas Common and thought we were going straight on and down Stokenchurch Hill - Wrong! We turned with him and the pace was noticeably higher than he had planned as we made our way to the top of Pishill. Dave turned left down the hill into the Stonor Valley whilst the rest of the ride turned right and then left to head for Cookley Green where we turned right for Ewelme. Someone realised that this was the hill that they had climbed on the club run on September 27th and got quite excited at the thought of going down Sliding Hill instead of up it!! The better descenders or braver riders led the way with Martin and Derwent at the front and were more than a little shocked to meet a car just as the descent steepens even more by Swyncombe Church! Everyone got safely past and then had to slow down for a horse and rider further down the hill.
A little further on we turned right and arrived at the picturesque village of Ewelme and the cafe stop at the village shop by the duck pond. As there was only one table outside(it's a small shop) the nine of us managed to fit on the eight seats and tucked into tea/coffee and various cakes. Apparently the flapjacks were rather on the dry side, but they still disappeared!
Back on the bikes we started up the road to Nuffield and the trio of hills soon had the ride strung out and even more so when Derwent stopped to take his jacket off! In Nuffield we turned right to head down past the Maharajah's Well at Stoke Row and then right to Sonning Common. At the boarded up Bird in Hand pub we turned left and along to Binfield Heath and down Playhatch hill to cross the Reading road and on into Sonning. Needless to say the traffic lights were at red, but we were soon sprinting up the little hill out of Sonning and on to cross the A4 by the Wee Waif pub.
After the lights in Twyford we forked right to Ruscombe and the pace went up as Andy and Martin led us round to Waltham St.Lawrence where Martin,Derwent and Martin headed for home. The pace eased a little, but not much and as we got to Woodlands Park Paul left us. Turning on to the A4 Mike hesitated as a learner driver looked as if she was going to pull out and this gave Andy,John and Mark a small lead. Mark didn't know about the sprint up Punt Hill and was caught by Mike, but John had sat on Andy's wheel and to his surprise managed to lead into the Pond House car park! Mike,Mark and Ruth followed the duelling duo up the hill and admired John's tactics.
Distance covered was 56 miles at an average speed of 17.2 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 11th October
Eleven riders gathered at the Pond House under grey and cloudy skies which threatened rain. They were Jim Alexander, Tim Brass, Andy Brown, Pete Clifton, Dave Lambourne, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Per Porter, Henry Tapper and Paul Todd. After a brief discussion of the bike show at Earls Court and welcoming Paul back from his injury we set off through Cookham, Bourne End and Loudwater in a neat row of paired riders. At High Wycombe we turned north up the Hughenden Valley and the ride broke up as a few of the faster climbers led the way up the climb.
We gathered at the top where Henry turned for home as he had a game of golf to play and Dave said he would also leave,but not until we had dropped down the hill. At the junction of the Missenden road we turned left and headed past Chequers and then on to the fast descent to Butler's Cross where Jim admonished Pete for a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre on a blind bend!
After Butler's Cross we started the long drag up to Thame where we were glad to get out of the drizzle and into the cafe for tea/coffee and various cakes. The rain had got heavier and so it was on with rain tops as we got back on the bikes and headed for Princes Risborough.
Paul was feeling the pace as he had been off his bike for four weeks because of his cut hand and so the pace was slightly lower than normal, but only just! From Princes Risborough he rode on Mike's wheel as the rest of the ride pulled away until we regrouped at the garage on the roundabout by the A40. We splashed back through High Wycombe and retraced our route via Loudwater,Bourne End and at Cookham only Paul, Jim and Mike turned right to struggle across the Switchback to Maidenhead.
Due to computer error I think the distance covered was 56 miles. (Editor's note: the average of all mileage suggestions received for this hotly-disputed club run was 57.87855)
M.M.
Sunday 4th October
With patchy sunshine and a chill wind blowing ten riders gathered at the Pond House. They were Ruth Martin, Jim Alexander, Pete Clifton, Ian Carswell, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Per Porter, Steve and Paul. We set off for Dave Lambourne's Wet Weather Route as it was the Newcomer's Ride and Paul had turned up to ride with us for the first time, but it was soon obvious he was more than capable of staying on the pace!
Out through the Walthams with Martin and Mike leading an orderly ride or so I hoped as we were on the front until we got to Arborfield Cross! Over the Blackwater River and right towards Spencer's Wood and then left for Mortimer and all the while cycling into a strong head wind. Down Beech Hill at a good rate of knots until someone dropped their chain and we all stopped in the sun whilst the chain was put back in place and a few energy bars were consumed. Up the hill to Mortimer the pace was a little too high for Steve as his heart rate was in the 190's!
After a brief rest we persuaded Steve to carry on and assured him the pace would be more relaxed and surprisingly this was the case! At the roundabout to cross the A33 the usual traffic caused a split and the ride took the climb up the hill from Three Mile Cross at a sensible pace to let the stragglers catch up. By now there were a few plaintive cries of "How far to the cafe?" to which Mike assured them "Not far" which was almost true! Ian nearly missed the left turn for Farley Hill as he was off the front, but just heard the call to turn before going past the junction. As we got to the bottom of Bungler's Hill Ruth hit the front until Paul and Per went past. We slowed up to let the slower climbers catch up and then Mike led the way down the other side to the A327 where we turned right towards Eversley and then turned left to head for Finchampstead and Crowthorne.
As we climbed the hill up to The Ridges the ride split again and unfortunately Jim and Steve didn't see us turn right for Crowthorne and carried on to Wokingham (a small reminder that if you remember to look behind you and check on any stragglers as the ride makes a turn we can avoid losing people). The remaining seven riders arrived at the cafe stop just after Crowthorne railway station and on the same side as Cycle Zone. As we settled down with tea/coffee and cake it dawned on us that we were short of a few riders and then Jim phoned to ask where we were? "We are at the cafe" was the reply as well as an apology for losing him and Steve! Martin took a photo of the ride as we discussed all manner of things and consumed our refreshments.
All too soon we were back on the bikes and heading for home via Wokingham where Per and Martin turned for home. This left the Famous Five to ride back through Shurlock Row and the Walthams to the A4 where Ian left us. Yet again traffic at the roundabout caused problems as John was the only rider to get out on to the A4 without having to slow down. Pete was not far behind and the two soon had a lead over Ruth and Mike that was to big to close despite their best efforts! Pete caught and passed John on Punt Hill despite John's attempt at an early sprint and so yet again was first back into the car park at the Pond House!
Distance covered was 54.2 miles at an average of 16.8 mph. Route below:
M.M.
Sunday 27th September
At the Pondhouse this bright and sunny morning were Derwent, Per, James (disguising himself in a non-Saxobank jersey), Mark (out with us for the first time, welcome Mark), Tim, Dave, Jim, Ian (sporting a shiny new chain), Pete, John, Alleyn (arriving by the wrong pub and a bit of a search up and down the A4) and Martin. Dave gave us the grim news that it was going to be an all male group this week. A bit of a discussion followed with Dave's wet weather route eventually (on the grounds it was not wet) losing out to a plan to head to Benson.
From Maidenhead, Dave directed the doughty dozen out through the Walthams to Twyford and Sonning. Once over the Thames, Tim turned back leaving the electric 11 to head up Playhatch Hill. Your correspondent had marked James's wheel as the one to follow but he was in relaxed mood, not fazed by Pete's disappearance into the distance. In the event only Pete and Martin competed this climb.
At the top it was left past Dunsden church and on to Gallowstree Common where Dave pointed us in the direction of the climb to the Maharajah's well and headed back.
The tremendous 10 took the climb up towards said well with Derwent setting such a high pace that Jim had to puncture to get a breather. 'Now', Mark was advised, 'watch and enjoy the Maestro in action. No one can fix a puncture like Jim. It is poetry in motion.' (Editor's note: Alleyn told me he was so excited by this prospect that he neglected to unclip either foot when stopping to watch, and rapidly assumed a horizontal watching position). With bare hands and in a trice Jim replaced his punctured tube with.another punctured tube. Offers to assist flooded in as we inspected, inflated, deflated and then presented Jim with his quality assured substitute tube. With tyre effortlessly pumped up to desired pressure, chain fearlessly grabbed by bare hands and oil licked off, we continued the ascent to Stoke Row where we turned left, passed another church and a golf course then left again onto the fast descent of the A4130 to Wallingford. The 40 mph speed of the front group of descenders made any suggestion of a turn out of the question so we continued to the roundabout and took a right onto the other main road up to the riverside cafe at Benson.
We enjoyed a cake or two, basking in the now warm sunshine watching the river traffic float by. Eventually Derwent drew attention to the time and we headed enthusiastically off in no particular direction on the road towards Watlington before Per took control to steer us up Ewelme hill for the biggest climb of the day to Cookley Green. James easily made it to the bench under the tree first.
As we regrouped to consider our options, Mark produced a map which induced us to turn left, to Derwent's confusion, so as to take the descent down Pishill. John, Pete and James led the charge with Per 'inconvenienced' by a 4x4 pulling past him only to slam on his brakes because of oncoming traffic. Regrouping at the bottom we headed on to Henley where James left us in search of a few more hills.
This departure left the final sprint wide open so tingling with anticipation the nifty nine took the final climb up to Cockpole Green and pressed on to the A4 for the final dash East. Martin led at a sedate pace with John's first jump occurring on the roundabout coming into Maidenhead. Turned out he was acting as lead out man for Pete who took the sprint from Per.
52 miles at 17.5 mph. Elevation Gain 987m. The route:
M.P
Sunday 20th September - Fanny's Cafe ride
The day of our eagerly anticipated annual pilgrimage to Fanny's Cafe dawned fine, calm and dry. As the hands on Windsor Central Station clock moved towards 8.00, 18 riders descended on Queen Victoria's statue from all points of the compass, lured by the promise of distant cakes. Chairman Mike's call to duty had been well answered: Mike Inder, Mike Mills, Tim Brass, Jim Alexander, John Nicholls, Pete Clifton, Andy Brown, Martin Porter, Derwent Jeffery, Amanda Balcombe, Alan Church, Ian Carswell, James Long, Tony Geraghty, Debbie, Steve and Alleyn (colleague of James and Abe) were champing at the pedal as the designated time of 8.01 came and went; a 'wardrobe malfunction' caused your apologetic correspondent to hold everyone up by another 10 minutes!
Without further ado, Mike led the group past the Long Walk and into Old Windsor. In only a couple of minutes, Crimp Hill was rearing up before us: a reminder that the route between Windsor and the far side of the North Downs was not going to be a flat one! However, the excitement of the unknown lands ahead seemed to give everyone a boost; the level of conversation barely subsided as the hill was dispatched, and we turned left and headed through Englefield Green. It was easy going as we bypassed Virginia Water and bowled along Kitsmead Lane to Longcross; the first 10 miles fell away quickly, when the shout came up from the rear of the group - a broken chain, just before the 10-mile mark! Ian Carswell was the unfortunate victim. 20 minutes' worth of Jim's ingenuity got Ian mobile again, at least to the point where he felt able to get home unaided. Meanwhile the rest of us milled around outside the Old School Cafe (sadly, but probably for for the best, closed), taking advantage of an unexpected chance to eat a snack and explore the bushes!
Back under way again, we headed up Accommodation Road, left and right through Ottershaw and (after a very smoothly executed whole-group U-turn) into the outlying suburbs of West Byfleet. It was here that Martin's sat-nav first proved its worth, getting us back on track as we meandered from one leafy avenue to another!
On through Pyrford to the picturesque village of Ripley. The giant ruins of Newark Priory provided a fine distraction off to the left for several minutes as we curved around them. A quick nip across the A3 to West Horsley, and that was the end of the easy cruising - the steep climb up to Ranmore Common suddenly appeared round a bend, making Crimp Hill look like a mere speed hump, and provoking gasps of anguish! Regrouping at the top, it was noticed that we were a couple short; James had spied a couple of other riders up ahead, and decided to chase them down, and Mike went after him to get him back. Up on top, as we rode across Ranmore Common towards Westhumble, the sun really came out in force. It was turning into a great day for a long ride.
Within minutes, the scenery had changed, to that of the colourfully graffitied underpass beneath the A24 in Dorking! Off-road around the barriers and into Mickleham; Ryker's Cafe, popular with motorcyclists on account of its ginormous burgers and bucket-like milkshakes (unaccountably, not many cyclists hanging out there!) passed by on the left, and then we were turning right onto the double-hairpin ascent of Box Hill. We weren't alone - jostling for road space with numerous members of London Dynamo and the odd impatient (but heavily outnumbered) motorist, we broke out of the trees and were able to enjoy the far-reaching views across the North Downs. We quickly colonised the viewpoint for another team photo and a quick sunbathe. By this point, Fanny's cakes were almost within sniffing distance, but within minutes of leaving Box Hill, another stoppage - this time for a slow puncture on Jim's bike. A small but appreciative audience gathered to observe his tyre-lever-like fingers make short work of the repair.
Then it was down off Box Hill, over the bridge to inside the M25, and a fast, bone-shaking arrival into Walton On The Hill (anyone fancy an extra levy on club membership fees to help Surrey Council sort out their roads?). Up into Tadworth, a quick blast back down the A217 dual carriageway and left up onto the slope of the North Downs again. A few minutes' more meandering down some leafy lanes, and all of a sudden, a giant Paddington Bear made of hay bales leapt out of the bushes to our right. We were at Fanny's Cafe!
Fanny and her team were ready and waiting, with novelties in store for the eye as well as the stomach (I'm still having nightmares about the pair of legs sticking out of the bit metal tub of plants, and some of the strangley-shaped pumpkin-like objects piled round the shop door). Naughty Nell (Fanny's granddaughter I think) provided us with plenty of cake, pots of tea and mugs of coffee, and we relaxed outside in the sunshine enjoying cake- and weight-related banter. Waterbottles refilled and group photo taken, it was off again - no rest for the wicked - on down the hill under the M25, through Merstham, to Redhill. Once out of the Redhill/Reigate conurbation, we made fast, uninterrupted progress back to Dorking along some good roads, then back through Westhumble (and another ruined church) again. Here we stayed North of our original route, going to Effingham and then up an Effing great 20% climb - Mike addressed us from his direction sheet up at the top, and it was proposed that we hold the AGM there and then!
The rest of the ride back went by (just) without incident. We briefly picked up the outward route again at Ripley before deviating back inside the M25 once more (more so than we intended, at one point, but yet again Martin's sat-nav saved us from being condemned to eternally cycle round and round leafy middle-class roads!). After picking our way through the traffic lights and junctions of Addlestone and Chertsey we enjoyed a very scenic stretch alongside the Thames at Laleham. Then it was back to Windsor via Staines, Wraysbury and Datchet - Tony heading off towards Old Windsor here. James threw down the gauntlet for a quick sprint along King Edward VII Avenue, but everyone else was in chilled-out warm-down mode, and John was obliged to give a tour bus driver a few tips on safe overtaking, after being almost driven onto the pavement! With the group successfully reassembled back at Queen Victoria's statue, a few minutes were taken to reflect on an excellent day's ride, before people dispersed, some to satisfy their appetite for food and others for yet more miles!
Total distance: 90.1 miles at average 15.6 mph.
A.S.
Sunday 13th September
Twelve riders gathered at the Pond House under cloudy skies and with a brisk north easterly wind blowing. They were Amanda Balcombe,Tim Brass,Pete Clifton,Derwent Jeffery,David Lambourne,Ruth Martin,Mike Mills,John Nicholls,Henry Tapper,Steve,Tony Geraghty and Dean. We set off for the Chilterns through Cookham,Bourne End and Wooburn Green in a very orderly line of paired riders with Tony and Mike on the front. As we passed through Loudwater we turned left under the M40 and went past Wycombe rugby club and on to the bottom of Ski Slope Hill where some complete maniac in a flat bed truck tried to overtake with almost disastrous results as he tried to pull in for the bend!!! How he never knocked John Nicholls off his bike is only down to sheer luck!!! Tim shook his fist and shouted at him and then invited him to come and try his luck when the driver threatened violence, but the driver thought better of it when he realised the size of the group of riders - what a moron!!!!!!
We carried on along the narrow lane and then on to the A40 until turning right for the Hughenden Valley where Tony led the faster climbers and the rest of the ride followed on to regroup at the top and watch a rather large farm vehicle turn into a field. Tim turned for home as he was under very strict orders to be home by 1pm - OR ELSE! David had said he was only doing a short ride and would leave us after descending to the Great Missenden road,but was still with us after we passed Chequers. Mike jumped away at the top of the descent to Butler's Cross, but Tony was on his wheel as was Pete and thanks to a compact chainset Mike ran out of top end gears to try and match their speed!!
As we regrouped at the cross roads it was noted that yet again David was descending faster than usual and was not the last to arrive - well done David! Unfortunately there is an old adage that once you have gone down a hill you usually have to go up a hill and this was indeed the case as we turned right towards Wendover. The ride split again,but due to the front group not knowing the route and Mike waiting for the slower riders they had to wait at the roundabout just past Wendover station.
I had told them that we would be stopping at a cafe in Wendover and that it was called the Little Cafe, but as they didn't speak French or didn't notice, Le Petite Cafe was just metres away to their right! The place was empty and after some rather slow service we settled down to tea/coffee and cake or in Henry's case Red Bull! As we left we turned right to head towards Amersham and then joined the A413 with a large increase in speed until we reached the bottom of Gore Hill where David said he would ride up it at slower pace,but not as slow as Mike as his chain came off as he changed down off the big ring - DOH!! With greasy fingers he chased the others up the hill and we headed on to Beaconsfield and the A40. Just before Holtspur Hill we turned left for Burnham Beeches and Taplow. Just before the top of Berry Hill Derwent left us and a car slowed the ride through the S-bend at the top, but we still managed a reasonably fast descent to the traffic lights where John and Pete turned left for home. Amanda and David peeled off at various points through Maidenhead and Tony led Mike,Ruth and Steve up Castle Hill to the Pond House car park.
Distance covered was 47 miles at an average speed of 17 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 6th September
With a cloudy,grey sky overhead it looked like a good idea for the twelve riders that gathered at the Pond House to be doing the "David Lambourne Wet Weather Route"! They were Jim Alexander, Amanda Balcombe, Tim Brass, Ian Carswell, Pete Clifton, David Lambourne, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Paul Todd, Steve and Dennis. We set out through the Walthams towards Ruscombe where we turned left over the railway bridge and then left at the roundabout to take us to the right turn into Hinton Road and the village of Hurst. At the junction we turned left and then immediately right into School Lane and up past St.Nicholas church.
On past Dinton Pastures to Winnersh where we crossed the A329. As we neared Arborfield Cross the ride split up the testing hill and "Easy" was called to let the ride regroup before taking the Swallowfield exit off the roundabout, but not before Tim had circled it several times - serve him right for going off the front!!!! Back into a neat formation of pairs as we made our way to cross over the Blackwater River and then a left towards Risely where we turned left and left again to take us round the back of Wellington country park.
To our surprise they had been resurfacing the potholed lane and what a difference smooth Tarmac made! All too soon we were back on the road back to the Blackwater River bridge and the usual holes and bumps! At Bungler's Hill up to Farley Hill the ride split again as the better climbers led the way before regrouping. Dropping down the hill to the A327 we turned left and then right at the roundabout for Barkham and then on to Wokingham where we got caught at the level crossing and had to wait for several minutes! Dennis showed us a short cut to avoid going through the town that brought us out on the A321 a mile or so from our cafe stop at the Farm Cafe in Forest Road. Martin Porter had to be home early and so had to pass on tea/coffee and cake - unlucky Martin!
Before long we were back on the bikes and heading for home - DOH! Back through Shurlock Row and then left into Smewins Road for the drop down to the cricket pitch with an increase in pace as we passed White Waltham aerodrome. Jim and Paul turned for home as the rest of headed under the railway arch and on towards the A4. Pete,John and Mike led the way with the sprint in mind and all was well until Mike was delayed by a car at the roundabout on the A4 which let Pete and John get a head start! Despite every effort Mike couldn't close the gap and Pete led John into the Pond House car park.
Distance covered was 40 miles at an average speed of 17.2 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 30th August
With less than promising skies overhead thirteen riders gathered at the Pond House. They were Amanda Balcombe, Tim Brass, Alan Church, Pete Clifton, Graham Giggs, David Lambourne, Ruth Martin, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Andy Brown, Martin Porter, Steve and Paul.We set out through Cookham,Bourne End and Marlow where we turned right at Quoting Square for the climb up "Platt's Hill" towards Frieth and Fingest where we turned right for Turville.
Instead of the usual ascent of Windmill Hill we went straight on through Turville and not a sign of the Vicar of Dibley! As we neared the long,narrow climb up to North End and Christmas Common David,Ruth,Graham and Steve turned for home. At Christmas Common we took the road for the fast descent down Watlington Hill with Mike leading the way and Andy right behind! After regrouping we left Watlington on the B4009 for the cafe on the Thames at Benson, but due to a left turn too soon we added a few extra miles until Mike regained his bearings! Although it was overcast and a bit windy we settled at a table overlooking the river for tea/coffee,cakes plus chat.
All too soon it was time to head for home and as we left the cafe it was struggle into a headwind which gave us a reason to take it easy until our legs had warmed up. After a mile or so we turned left towards Henley and then as the road bore left we took the lane off to the right that heads up to Nuffield with a three nice little leg warmers thrown in for good measure! At Nuffield we turned right for the fast road to Stoke Row past the Maharajah's Well where we turned right to head for Peppard and Sonning Common. The descent of Playhatch was made harder by a stiff wind which seemed to be blowing up the hill. As usual the traffic lights at Sonning were red and stayed that way for far too long!
We crossed the A4 at the Wee Waif and on into Twyford then right to Ruscombe where the pace went up as we followed the road to the Walthams. At Waltham St.Lawrence Martin left us and not long after Paul turned off as we neared Cox Green. As we turned right onto the A4 the pace increased even more as the sprint for the pub car park neared. Tim led the way with Mike sitting on his wheel and John and Pete right behind until traffic at the mini roundabout. Mike was the only one to hesitate and the poor Mini driver had people passing on both sides!!! I think Pete led into the car park with Tim,John and Andy not far behind.
Distance covered was 61 miles at an average of 16.8 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 23rd August
On a sunny but windy morning fifteen riders gathered at the Pond House. They were Amanda Balcombe, Ian Carswell, Pete Clifton, Derwent Jeffery, Martin Lambert, David Lambourne, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Per Porter, James(soon to be a member), Dean, Steve and Mike. We set off through the Walthams in a very orderly line of two abreast riders, but soon had to have a word of advice from Coach Lambourne about maintaining formation! The odd rider or two was switching lines and not taking their turn on the front - not that I could see from the middle of the ride! We passed through Hurst and then crossed the A329 at Winnersh before passing by Nirvana - not an all day cake stop! The little rise just before Arborfield Cross split the ride,as usual, until we regrouped on the other side of the roundabout on the road to Swallowfield.
At the next T-junction we turned right and then the same again further at Swallowfield towards Spencer's Wood. Just before the village we turned left towards Beech Hill and Mortimer where the hill up to the village had the ride spread out. Just after Mortimer where we normally bear right we turned left and then right to head towards Padworth and today's Cafe Stop. This was at the Aldermaston Wharf visitor centre/cafe which is on the bank of the Kennet and Avon canal and was a suggestion of Chairman Mike (it's open 10 am until 4 pm daily). Dean and Mike had to be back early and left us as had Per and Derwent earlier in the ride. After a very pleasant half hour or so we dragged ourselves away to start the rest of the ride back to Maidenhead. This meant climbing back up a hill away from the A4 to Padworth Green and you could see the stiff legs and refreshments had taken their toll!
As we were about to turn left towards Burghfield Common a Sunday Driver shot past us and we were nearly witnesses to a collision due to his failure to notice an oncoming car - DOH! Mike M reminded John that would soon be back on familiar roads, but with his legendary ability not to know where he is going, was none the wiser!! The pace went up as we raced down the hill through Burghfield Common and on to Three Mile Cross where the roadworks (still) made crossing the A33 a real pain.
At the top of the hill through Spencer's Wood Dave pulled up with the return of his cramp problem and so we slowed down in the hope of avoiding further discomfort. Unfortunately it wasn't long before Dave told us to leave him to pedal at his own pace as he didn't want to hold the ride up and he even had to get off and walk for a while after we left him! Back through Arborfield Cross and on to Winnersh where some kind soul shared his awful taste in what I believe is called music as we waited at the traffic lights to cross the A329!!
Through the lanes of Hurst and the Walthams,where the Martins left us,the pace started to gradually increase as the thought of the sprint up Punt Hill brought the usual suspects to the front of the ride. As we left the traffic lights by the railway bridge Amanda hit the front, but thought better of it and let James,Andy,Pete and Mike take the lead as we turned right onto the A4. As was expected James led the way with Pete on his wheel and even a lead out from John left Mike M in third spot until Pete changed down a gear(Why?) and he followed James into the Pond House car park.
Distance covered was 59 miles at an average speed of 17.4 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 16th August
15 strong at the Pond House: Tim Brass (who turned up sporting a spare tub around neck and riding a Colnago from the dim and distant past hastily assembled due a mechanical on his regular steed), Alan Church, Dean (NOT on a mountain bike), Pete Clifton, Mike Inder, Derwent Jeffery, Martin Lambert, Dave Lambourne, Mike Mills (expecting cold weather adorned in long sleeves), John Nicholls, Daniel Olver, Martin Porter, James (the young looking lad who has a propensity for darting from the back of the group to the front and away whenever the road goes up!), Peter (who was very quiet all day and insisted on riding most of the day in 53x11 .... or at least that's what it looked like) and Amanda Balcombe (eventually! Winner of the last to arrive award, usually reserved for Dave).
Off to Wycombe via The Switchback and a near disaster was somehow averted when the front of the group decided to stop without telling anyone else and ensuing tyre slides and brakes applied saw a great comedy moment whereby Dave couldn't stop and rode straight through the middle of the pack and out of the front like a popped cork!
Puncture No.1 at Loudwater was courtesy of Martin L, which was sorted quickly. Through Wycombe and out to Hughenden, the group were directed left off the usual Hampden climb with shouts of "LEFT??????????". The group split on the climb to Loosely Row, allowing the grimpeurs free flight with a nice steady pace being set by messrs Mills and Inder in the grupetto behind.
Down to Risborough, Longwick, Kimble and Marsh with the terrain a most agreeable flat, roads very quiet and to round things off, tailwind assisted.
Puncture No.2 was courtesy of Pete, to which Dean set about a record breaking attempt to fix - impressive stuff indeed. Derwent had turned back at this point with a BBQ to attend to (his!) and Dave was found to still be with us - resolute in his plan to ride the full day.
Off again, we headed to the tea stop at Wilstone via Weston Turville and Aston Clinton. Tea, cakes, more cake and jam sandwiches (Dave!!) were consumed in the sun and shelter of the cafe with Puncture No.3 detected as we were about to set off - again attributed to Pete.
The route back was to be a hilly affair, with Hastoe Hill, the climb to get us back on top of the Chilterns. After regrouping at the top we ticked off the villages of St Leonards, The Lee, South Heath and Hyde Heath before descending to the Wendover road and the next climb at Little Missenden. By now Dave was suffering and decided to call it a day and opt for BHR (Betty's Home Rescue). We think he just fancied a pint at the Red Lion back down the road.
After a bit of a delay the group got going again and sped along Penn Bottom and the last climb at Knotty Green. We were close to home and as Beaconsfield came and went the pace was picked up at the front. However, Dan was feeling the mileage and was off the back so the two Mikes and John dropped back to assist and set a comfortable pace. The rest disappeared up the road fast and were never seen again (tsk tsk!!). All back safe we assume, as Mr Chairman left for home at Hedsor.
Distance covered 70 miles at average speed of 16.6 mph.
M.I.
Sunday 9th August
Fourteen riders met at the Pond House with the promise of some sunny weather for the club run. They were Amanda Balcombe,Deb Parkinson,John Nicholls,Jim Alexander,Dave Lambourne,Pete Clifton,Derwent Jeffery,Mike Mills,Martin Porter,Alan Church,Tim Brass,Ian Carswell,Dean and Steve(for the second time). We set off for the Chilterns by way of Cookham and Marlow and were soon on Platt's Hill where the pace was at first quite reasonable! Then Martin shot off the front with Tim,Mike and Derwent not far behind. We regrouped at the top and Dave reminded us that Paul Redman was STILL waiting for replies about the 4 man TTT in September.
We headed on through Frieth to Fingest where we turned right to climb "Windmill Hill", amidst groans and surprised looks when Mike said that this was the easiest of the hills around Fingest/Turville! At the top we waited for stragglers to catch up and admired the view of the valley below before continuing on to Stokenchurch where we turned left on to the A40. Dave left us to head for home via Christmas Common and Pishill where he met some of the DNA riders and stopped to talk to them. The rest of the ride raced down the hill and followed the A40 until we turned right towards Thame and this weeks cafe stop!
As we pulled up at the back of the cafe we found that there was another group of cyclists occupying the alfresco seating area and so we took up three tables inside. What some of us had failed to notice was that Chairman Mike was with the other riders and he was surprised to see the Thames Velo ride arrive. Mike Mills told him that we have been stopping for refreshments for the last three weeks. After tea,coffee and cakes were consumed and we talked about all things cycling we remounted and headed for Princes Risborough. New guy Steve was feeling the pace as he only rides a relatively small distance due to work and had also been on holiday for two weeks. So Mike let him sit on his wheel along the Aylesbury Road until we reached the A40 again and then on through Wooburn Green,Bourne End,Cookham and finally back to Maidenhead. We told him that everybody has suffered like this until they are used to riding longer distances and not to worry about slowing the ride up.
Distance covered was 55 miles at an average speed of 16.5 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 2nd August
On what promised to be a sunny day twelve riders gathered at the Pond House with eager anticipation or dread if Mike's route was going to be hilly! They were Amanda Balcombe, Cathi Foale, Jim Alexander, Pete Clifton, Graham Giggs, John Nicholls, Martin Lambert, Martin Porter, Mike Mills, Dave Lambourne, Alan Church and Derwent Jeffery. They need not have worried as it being "Beginner's Day" Mike had decided to use the same route as last week, but with the loop out through Mortimer to add on some more miles, if there were no new comers - and there were none to be seen! This involved turning right towards Spencer's Wood instead of left towards Risely until we reached Back Lane and then left on to Beech Lane where Dave announced he was turning back and John managed to drop his chain as he tried to change gear front and rear - DUH!! There were a few questions as to why Dave turned back after descending Beech Hill, but I'm sure it was all part of a cunning training program!
Before long we came to the A33 and we had to play dodgems with all the Sunday motorists amidst the road works to get across and climb up the hill from Three Mile Cross. This time we followed the road to Risely and then down the narrow lane behind the Wellington Country Park and back over the Blackwater River. Up Bungler's Hill the ride split a little and "Easy" was the cry to let the stragglers get back on. At the A327 we turned right towards Finchampstead by way of Fleet Hill and on to Crowthorne where we went through where Amanda lived at one time. John asked how far it was to the promised Tea Stop and almost immediately we were there at the arts and craft centre in Heathlands Road. The eleven gathered around two tables in the sunny courtyard and all manner of refreshments were consumed. Jim made some remarks about Lattes being more like a dessert than a coffee and as he was drinking a Grande Americano(black coffee without sugar) who could argue! Martin Porter had two cakes,as usual,whilst Cathi and Amanda shared a very chocolatie and yummy looking cake!
All too soon it was back on the bikes and time to head for home. Graham left us to head through Wokingham on the A329 and we turned right towards Hurst and Twyford where Cathi turned for Woodley. The two Martins left us just after Shurlock Row and not long after Jim turned off at Woodlands Park, but not before having upped the pace! The remaining five riders passed under the railway bridge and up the long drag to the A4 with Pete leading the way. Mike knew Pete was getting ready for the sprint and sat on his wheel until the roundabout at the bottom of Punt Hill where,for some strange reason Pete changed on to the inner ring! Not needing a second invitation to hit the front Mike shot past Pete and was waiting in the car park almost before Pete got past the roundabout at the top of the hill or so it seemed!!
Distance covered was 58.5 miles at an average of 17.7 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 26th July
Ten riders met at the Pond House under a cloudy sky and all hoped that there was no rain waiting for them! They were Pete Clifton, Henry Tapper, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Tim Brass, Amanda Balcombe, Dave Lambourne, Alan Church, James and Steve. As the final stage of the Tour De France was on TV later and because of a proposed cafe stop we opted for the "Dave Lambourne Wet Weather Route". After a quick reminder from Coach Lambourne about NOT riding off the front of the ride we set off through the Walthams in a very orderly line of paired riders!
At Ruscombe we turned left over the railway line and then left at the roundabout to drop down past Stanlake Park and then right into Hinton Road. At Hurst we turned left and immediately right into School Road and up the little rise past St.Nicholas church and on to the road leading to Winnersh where,needless to say the traffic lights were red, we crossed the A329. Just before we reached Arborfield Cross we had to climb Ellis Hill and the usual suspects were off the front, but waited just after the roundabout where we headed for Swallowfield and the loop around Wellington Country Park.
Retracing our route we made our way towards Farley Hill and the climb up Bungler's Hill and down to the A327. At the roundabout by Arborfield Barracks we turned right towards Barkham and on towards Wokingham. On to the A321 towards Twyford until we turned right into Forest Road for a couple of hundred yards and then right into the garden centre with our thoughts set on food and drink at the cafe!
After refreshments and social banter we reluctantly remounted our bikes and headed back through Shurlock Row and the Walthams to the A4. Any one interested in the usual sprint had made their way to the front of the ride. Tim looked eager to lead out from the roundabout but was beaten to the jump by James! Pete,John and Mike tried to follow, but had no answer to the speeding duo who lasted until reaching the car park of the Pond House!
Distance covered was 40 miles at an average of 17.2 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 12th July
After a Saturday evening of solid rain, it was good to wake up to clear-ish skies and dryish roads. Per Porter, Mike Mills, Pete Clifton, Paul Redman, David Lambourne, John Nicholls, Martin (not Porter), Cathi Foale, Tony Geraghty, Abe Sharp and his work mate James, and second-timer Andy met up at the PH. After a quick briefing from Dave on the horrors of crashing, we headed out to Marlow via Cookham and Well End.
Still following last week's route, we turned right at the garage in Marlow and climbed up to Moor End - James getting stung by a bee who thought that he could do with some extra pain. Once out of the shade up at the top, it was hot, and a panting and subdued group stopped for a rest when the hard work was over. Mike cheered everyone up by telling us that the warm-up climb was finished, and we carried on, this week going straight over the crossroads towards Fingest. A right fork here and first right, and the road suddenly reared up into some distant trees - time for the small gears again! Another rest at the top, this time with fine views to the south-west across the Chilterns to enjoy through steamy shades.
With no more hill above us, Ibstone and Stokenchurch were dispatched in short order and before we knew it, we were piling down Stokenchurch Hill and back at the bottom again, except on the other side of the Chilterns. From here, we headed in tight formation and at a great pace along the B4009 towards Benson, slowing up only briefly for Watlington, and barely noticing a brief downpour. A couple of miles before Benson, we took a left onto a narrow country lane to the pretty village of Ewelme; left again pointed us straight back up to the Chiltern ridge through Swyncombe. Up on the top at Cookley Green, Dave left us to head straight home via Henley; the remaining 11 picked up the exact route used on last week's run, with a non-stop blat to Nuffield and Stoke Row, descending quickly to Rothfield Peppard. Cathi briefly toyed with the idea of dropping off to head home at a more gentle pace, but after being told by Mike that abandoning club members in the badlands north of Reading just wasn't the Thames Velo way, stuck with the group, and had no difficulty doing so.
Then followed Playhatch, Sonning, and Twyford, where the only puncture of the day struck Tony. We headed for home via the Walthams and Woodlands Park, at a less frantic and more conversational pace than last week, and losing Per and Martin somewhere along the way. After the usual skirmish on the A4, first into the PH car park was either James or Tony (I just saw a couple of blue dots darting over the distant roundabout....)
Distance 58 miles at average 17.4 mph.
A.S.
Sunday 5th July
The weather looked like it was storing up some little surprises as another good turnout of 11 met up at the PH. Bright patches of sunshine shone through rolling grey clouds, and a brisk westerly breeze promised to help or hinder us. Mike Mills, Per Porter, Tim Brass, Derwent Jeffrey, Martin Porter, Alan Church, Abe Sharp, Cathi Foale, Amanda Balcombe and John Nicholls were joined by new prospect Steve, along for the first-of-the-month trial run. Mike promised to take him to where the hills were....
With that aim in mind, we headed towards Cookham. Numerous numbered cyclists heading the other way stopped to admire the tight-knit blur of the Velo peloton as it flashed over the Thames (or so I fondly imagined) and we wondered where they were off to. Through Well End and on to Marlow, then right at the garage on the long climb towards Frieth, we found ourselves now going in the same direction as the motley throng - actually riding in Bike Events' London to Oxford charity ride. After a short break at the top, we turned right at the crossroads and emerged in the centre of Lane End. It was promised that all the serious climbing was over and done with!
Turning left onto the B482, Martin and Derwent towed the group along at a fine pace. Amanda U-turned for home at Cadmore End, and Derwent and Alan left us at Stokenchurch under gathering clouds and a few drops of rain. The remainder of the group continued on the A40, but rather than heading down Stokenchurch Hill we delayed our gratification and turned left on the road to Christmas Common. It was here that the weather dished up a full-on 10-minute drenching, and in a cloud of spray we passed some more L-to-O riders huddled under the trees. At the end, Mike ignored the temptations of Pishill, and directed us onto the B481 towards Nettlebed, before turning right towards Nuffield. Straight after a quick right-left over the main road between Henley and Wallingford, we took a sudden break as Tim acquired a puncture - unplanned, but good timing for drying off and eating snacks. Barely 4 miles after that, at Stoke Row - puncture again! Steve this time, and a more difficult one to fix. The ensuing break was sufficiently long for the conversation to turn to the molar mass of helium, the ideal gas law, and swine flu jokes.
Once back under way, we were soon rewarded with a twisty descent to Rothfield Pepperard. Then across the B481, left to Sonning Common and Binfield Heath, and down Playhatch. A yelp of pain from Martin as a wasp took exception to his presence at the traffic lights in Sonning. After Twyford, the westerly wind finally came into its own and propelled us speedily back through the Walthams (the two Porters left us here). At Woodlands Park, John threw down the gauntlet for a sprint by jumping off the front, and the charge down Bath Road was closely contested between John and Tim, with Tim being first into the car park.
Distance covered was 50.5 miles at an average of 17.6 m.p.h. Punctures 2, wasp stings 2
A.S.