Club Runs Diary - January to June 2008
Sunday 29th June
Fifteen turned up at the Pond House with the weather promising a changeable ride. They were Alan Church, Tim Brass, Ian Carswell, Pete Clifton, Derwent Jeffery, Dave Lambourne, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Per Porter, Mike Mills, Jeremy Monk, Anthony Snyman, Jerome, Sean and Darren.
We set off through Cookham and Bourne End heading north for the Chilterns. Through Loudwater and the backroads to High Wycombe where Darren failed to get his foot out of the pedal in time and fell of as we turned left onto the A40. Fortunately it was only his pride that seemed to suffer! Soon we were starting up the Hughenden Valley and the ride split as the gradient took it's toll and the faster riders duelled for the honour of first to the top. Needless to say Jerome led the way and was closely followed by Martin and Sean.
We passed several members of the Willesden CC and some poor souls on MTB's - when will they learn! A nature break was called at the top and of course all the riders we had passed came past us, with smug looks on their faces, as we waited for the slower climbers in the group. Dave and Jeremy turned for home at this point and the rest of the ride carried on down the hill and past Chequers. Mike led the charge down the next descent to Butler's Cross until several riders came past after sheltering behind Mike's muscular frame! Per recorded 43 mph on the descent.
Straight on at the cross roads and the long drag up to Thame where we stopped to make sure Darren, who was on his first club run, had enough to eat and after downing a banana donated by Tim, we headed on to Chinnor. We turned right to head towards Watlington, but knowing we were going to turn left up the climb to Stokenchurch on the A40. Again it was Jerome, Martin and Sean who led the way with Per and Mike not far behind.
We decided to drop down past the windmill above Turville and on through Fingest and Frieth for the race down Platt's Hill into Marlow. For some reason several people wanted to take the ascent up Quarrywood Hill rather than the flatter route back through Bourne End and who was I to deny them that pleasure! All that remained was the last few miles back to the Pond House.
We covered 57.5 miles at an average of 16.6 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 22nd June
Alan Church, Jeremy Monk, Dave Lambourne, Robert Majewski, Anthony Snyman and Shaun Caven.
Just six of us - we waited until 10.15 am but decided everyone else must be riding mega long sportives, so with Robert having to get back early, Jeremy just back after his A levels, Dave with a back injury, it was decided a shortish flat ride was in order. We welcomed newcomer, Shaun Caven.
So with a strong head wind we turned out and headed for Twyford, when just past Waltham St Lawrence we noticed that every time Shaun changed gear there was a minor explosion from his rear mech and we expected to see it fly into bits. So a stop was made and after due examination, Dave found the top roller was making contact with the sprocket, due to the chain being too long. Shaun had just received the bike back from having it serviced and they had fitted a new cassette and chain!!!/p>
So on we proceeded with Shaun riding on the big ring which seemed to solve the problem. So out to Sindlesham, Swallowfield and Riseley, returning via Farley Hill, where a stop was made to regroup. Trouble was - it was too pleasant standing in the sunshine at the top of the hill and we eventually moved off to ride those darned bikes!/p>
An uneventful ride back, not even any irate motorists! Robert won the final sprint. 44 miles 17.5 mph average.
DWL
Sunday 15th June
A number of absentees this week as "Sir" called the register...
1 at the Windsor Triathlon, 1 leading his office chums on the London to Brighton (bet they don't make it half way before a Pub stop) & 4 in Italy at the Grand Fondo...
"hurrah" we cheered - "no hill training required today!"...
And so it was: Pete, Per, Mark, Jerome, Robert & Tim set off for Silchester...
Dave was out as well but quickly headed home - still suffering with back problems and Paul also appeared...but he was faced with the choice of riding his bike on a glorious sunny day around beautiful countryside in blessed company...or staying home to revise UNIX-techno-babble...exam pressure got the better of him...
A small fit group meant for a fast start despite the headwind...Walthams, Hurst, ArborfieldCross, Swallowfield, Beech Hill all whizzed by before a bio-break pit-stop was requested.
After Bramley it was down to "The Sherbournes" then back up past Silchester. We slowed dramatically due to freshly laid pitch & gravel...& then stopped. A workman was U-turning all cars...but advised that we "should be OK to get through" & radioed ahead...
We gingerly rode onwards - it was unpleasant trying to stay upright in all the loose chippings. Having passed the tar lorry we did at least have the option of riding on the right hand side of the road. This had not yet been resurfaced yet so it was just a matter of avoiding the oncoming traffic.
We escaped the main road ASAP, much to everyone's relief.
The pace picked up again as we headed back, with Robert leading the charge. We raced on down a narrow lane having just missed a sharp left turn & so had to backtrack a little. More roadworks at Spencers Wood, but these did not pose a problem. After the Winnersh crossing, Jerome put the hammer down on the front - leading us almost to Twyford at speeds approaching 30mph! An easier pace followed as we headed through the Walthams, then split to go our separate ways home.
59 miles at 18.4mph (if you ignore the roadworks)
TCB
Sunday 8th June
With the sun shining and the temperature already rising, eleven riders gathered outside the Pond House for the run out to the Living Rainforest for tea and cakes! They were Tim Brass, Alan Church, Pete Clifton, Dave Lambourne, Robert Majewski, Mike Mills, Mark Nathan, John Nicholls, Per Porter, Abe Sharp and Jerome.
We set off through the Walthams and round towards Twyford where for once the traffic lights were green! At the Wee Waif we crossed the A4 and on into Sonning where, of course, the lights were red! Up Playhatch the ride split as the faster riders, led by Jerome, left the slightly slower climbers behind.
After regrouping, we went through the lanes until taking a right for Gallowstree Corner and then the lane up to Stoke Row. We passed through Checkendon and then Woodcote where Per, Robert and Dave turned for home.
Down Catsbrain Hill at a fast pace and then left towards Goring. At the lights Jerome showed us all how to do a trackstand as we waited for the lights to change before turning left to head for the climb to Upper Basildon. John led the way up the climb until it steepened and several riders went past. After turning right to head for the top of Streatley Hill and then a left we were almost a the cafe stop and the thought of tea and cakes raised the speed! Abe's wife joined us at the cafe and for some unexplained reason the thought of riding home proved too much for Abe and his bike almost jumped into the waiting car on it's own!
On the return journey we decided to descend Streatley Hill as going down a 17% hill seemed too good to miss! The excitement had hardly subsided before we were at the bottom of the climb out of Goring up towards Woodcote and in desperation Mark's bike spat the chain off twice before the climb had really started! As we got to Woodcote Pete got cramp which wasn't a surprise as he had already started to drop off the back any time gravity reared it's head! We stopped at a shop in Sonning Common for some water and then back through the lanes to descend Playhatch and back through Sonning. At the A4 the Windsor Chapter headed straight on for Twyford and home, whilst Alan, John, Mike and Pete headed for Maidenhead at a leisurely pace to suit Pete's energy level - in other words SLOWLY!
Distance covered was 66.5 miles at an average speed of 16.6mph.
Sunday 18th May
Out today: Pete, Graeme, Tim, Ian2, Dave, Alan, Abe, Paul, Jerome (K.O.M) & Gordon.
With "Mike-the-map" absent sportive-ing we chose to go in an Amersham direction.
Abe led the way out through Burnham Beeches to Fulmer, and then it was up to Gerrards Cross & beyond. Jerome left us all behind on the hills (both on the ascents & the descents) as we cleared Coleshill & dropped down into Amersham. After taking the lesser climb through the town we regrouped at the top - a few guys called into a shop for water. It had turned out nice - a cool northerly wind but it was now bright & sunny.
Dave turned back as his back was aching & the rest of us carried on. Down towards and through Great Missenden & up along the Hampden Bottom Valley. The group split up here - rather too much, so Tim ordered a slow down. Taking it at a slower pace it was up & over Longdown Hill. Not to be outdone by the Archer GP sportivers we took a left & climbed Whiteleaf hill - a shock to some amongst us. After a well earned rest at the top we pushed onwards but soon realised we had lost Alan. Somehow Alan had missed a right turn. We waited for 5 minutes, then sent out a search party but could not see him. (A phone call verified he had made his own way home OK).
The usual route back now - High Wycombe, Wooburn, (Paul turned off) Bourne End, Cookham (Tim turned off) & back to the PH for the remainder.
Approx 57 miles at 16.2 mph.
TCB
Sunday 4th May
Abe Sharp, Paul Redman, Martin Porter, John Nicholls, Mark Nathan, Jeremy Monk, Mike Mills, Robert Majewski, Ian Lowe, Dave Lambourne, Derwent Jeffery, Alan Church, Gordon Brown, Tim Brass and Paul Mahon set off from the Pond House for the last ride before the Fred Whitton and so Mike had planned a hilly route as a warm up for the Lake District.
We headed out through Cookham and Bourne End and turned right up Winchbottom Lane and climbed up the hill under the Marlow bypass. At the top of Burroughs Grove we turned left and took the fast descent past Marlow Bottom and on into Marlow itself. Then right up Platt's Hill and on to Frieth and a regroup at the top of the hill where Mike discovered that his front brake was rubbing - so that's what was slowing him up! On to Fingest and right for Turville, but not for the usual climb up Windmill Hill. This time would be up the steeper climb that is just after the village and brought groans from those that knew it and after the the hill ramped up at the end brought groans and gasping from everyone! Right at the top and back down Windmill Hill with Ian's warning of the pot holes ringing in our ears.
Right at the bottom and then a left for the climb up the hill to Turville Heath and on to Christmas Common. At the A40 we turned right for Stokenchurch and then left to Radnage for the plunge down in to the valley and of course that meant a climb up the other side. More groans as we started up Spriggs Holly Lane on to Bledlow Ridge after the quick, partial descent of Chinnor Hill and a rapid right turn with lots of big ring effort for the short climb from the junction. Left down our old friend Rubbish Dump Hill with the usual race to be first to the bottom being won by Paul. Left for Chinnor and then a quick stop at a garage for water and a nature break before the big climb up Kingston Blount back to the A40.
Ian and Derwent left us for home and some others had peeled off at various points. The remainder turned right down Stokenchuch Hill and left towards Watlington where we turned up another old favourite, namely Watlington Hill! Paul lead the way (as usual) with Mike a distant second, Martin not far behind and the rest following on! This left two climbs to go, but first we had the pleasure of a fast descent of Pishill and the race to the juction with the Oxford/Henley road.
Over the Thames at Henley with Mark muttering something about coffee at Starbucks and up Remenham Hill with traffic rushing past as Mike and Martin chased Paul - yet again! Down the fast descent into Hurley and a newly reconstructed junction fooled Mike for a moment. We turned round and turned up Honey Lane for the final climb of the day - one in nine to finish off some tired legs!
Martin left for the back way to Windsor whilst the rest of us headed for Maidenhead on the A4 and though we said that Paul was awarded the honour of the fianal sprint and that we need not bother some people had other ideas! Gordon shot past Paul, Mike and John to provoke a sprint even though he knew he would fade before reaching Punt Hill! All of a sudden Abe hit the front and grabbed the honours of being first back to the Pond House with Paul just behind him!
Distance covered was 63 miles at an average speed of 16.3 mph and 10 climbs of varying hardness.
Sunday 20th April
Tim Brass, Alan Church, Graham Giggs, Derwent Jeffery, David Lambourne, Mike Mills, Mark Nathan, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Anthony Snyman and Ian left the Pond House under grey clouds, but very little wind and headed out through Cookham to Bourne End. Just after Little Marlow we turned right up to Winchbottom and the first climb of the day to the top of Burroughs Grove! Down the fast descent past Marlow Bottom and right at the mini roundabout we managed to lose Dave as he took his usual cautious descent due to a van getting too close.
Once regrouped we turned right up Platt's hill and the ride split a bit due to different climbing abilities, but it gave some a chance for a nature break and we met up with Paul, who had been out with us before. On to Fingest and a right turn up "Windmill Hill" brought a few groans from the ride, but the summit was soon reached and as we waited for the slower climbers we were joined by Paul Mahon. As we reached the M40 at Stokenchurch, Dave and Anthony left us to head for home and we headed east until the turning for Radnage.
Having descended the steep hill into Radnage the only way was up! Left up the steep and bumpy Spriggs Holly Lane brought us to the top of Chinnor Hill and just after the start of the descent we turned right along Bledlow Ridge. With Paul leading out the ride we turned left to start down our old friend Rubbish Dump Hill - much better than riding up it! At Bledlow we turned left for Watlington and as we got to the bottom of Stokenchurch Hill (the A40), Alan and Ian left us. Paul Mahon turned left for home as we turned right to head round to Ewelme with Graham starting to feel the pace a bit! Once through Ewelme we started up the lane to the start of Sliding Hill which everyone was overjoyed to see rear up in front of them!
Martin and Tim led the way with Mike a little way behind. Martin managed to find a bench to rest on whilst waiting for the rest to catch up. We turned right towards Henley and then right again just past Nettlebed to head for Shepherd's Green and finally drop down into the town centre. We turned left over the Thames and then right towards Wargrave, but then turned left up to Cockpole Green and finally back on to the A4 where Tim, Martin and Mark left for the lanes back to the Windsor area.
This left the Dynamic Duo of John and Mike to wend their weary way back to Maidenhead. The usual sprint from the Thicket roundabout did not materialise, but Mike could not resist passing John up Punt Hill to be first back to the Pond House.
The distance covered was 68 miles at an average of 16.4 mph.
Mike M.
Sunday 30th March
Another good turn out of fourteen for the club run gathered at the Pond House. They were Alan Church, Pete Clifton, Derwent Jeffery, Dave Lambourne, Robert Majewski, Mike Mills, Jeremy Monk, Mark Nathan, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Abe Sharp, Erin and two newcomers Ian and Jeroen. After Derwent requested more hills in preparation for the Fred Whitton, Mike thought up a route to take in some of the Chilterns and a lap of the Great Milton race circuit. We headed out through Cookham, Bourne End and as we approached Marlow Robert had the first puncture of the ride! After a quick tube change we were off again, but not for long as Dave pinctured at the bottom of Platt's Hill. Not content with one tube change Dave ripped the valve out and had to start again from scratch as the ride stood about in the sun - makes a pleasant change to rain!
The pace up the hill was lower than usual thanks to legs being a bit stiff after the stop. We carried on through Frieth to Fingest and then turned right towards Turville with John thinking that we had missed out the harder climb than the one we were approaching. Mike soon reminded him that this was not the case and he soon realised his error as we started up the steep and narrow ascent to North End! At the top we regrouped and soon arrived at Christmas Common where we turned left down the hill towards Watlington with a reminder that anyone not exceeding forty mph was a cissy! Dave immediately started talking in a high, squeaky voice! After a couple of miles we got to the race circuit at point where you turn off for Clare Hill. The idea was to check the roads and to let Erin get an idea what to expect when she rides the race. As usual the wind was blowing in our faces from the turn off of the A40 onto the A329 and the pace was steady - thankfully! After the roundabout in Stadhampton the pace rose noticeably and a split occured until we had to stop at the bottom of Clare Hill for the third puncture to be mended.
On reaching the A40 again we turned right and at Postcombe had a break at the garage to empty bladders and fill bottles before the climb up the hill to Stokenchurch! At the top we turned right for Christmas Common and Pishill. Alan and Pete left us to head for home at this point. The usual race ensued down Pishill with Jeremy, John, Jeroen, Derwent and Mike off the front until we regrouped at the turning for Henley. Over the bridge and right for Wargrave, but not before some of the riders tried to turn off for the climb to Cockpole Green and had to be called back - they should have listened when Mike said where we were going! At the A4 the Windsor crew turned right to go through Twyford and Jeremy left us as well. The pace was steady along the A4 until we neared the Thicket roundabout and then those with any energy raised the speed in preparation for the sprint up Punt Hill.
The distance covered was 70 miles at an average of 17.1 mph.
M.M.
Easter BH Monday 24th March
It was forecast to be bright and sunny so Martin, Mark, Alan and Dave duly gathered in the falling snow at the pondhouse (Dave was a little late as he had been on the 'phone trying to make good a promise of female company which had enticed us there but we forgive him). The bad weather and salted roads had been too much for Mark's front mech which decided to disintegrate leaving Mark committed to the big ring. A flat route was therefore called for and Dave led us out through Arborfield to Farley Hill and Swallowfield. Unfortunately Alan had been off the bike for a while with bronchitis and his lungs were still suffering. After a stint at the front his lungs told him to turn back. The trio carried on and Dave filled us in on the history of Thames Velo and how to sprint for the line in a race. Time and snowflakes flew by and soon there was a parting of the ways at White Waltham where Mark and Martin turned off towards Windsor. There was a further parting of the ways at Paley Street when Martin realised he was heading away from home and headed sharp right. Today was possibly not a good day for long detours.
My computer showed about 60 miles at about 17 when I got home.
MP
Good Friday 21st March
Heeding our coach's call for a Good Friday club run, Derwent, Erin and Abe ignored the wintry weather forecast and met up with Dave L at the Pond House at 9.30 AM (or 9 in Derwent's case, having a seeming aversion to his bed). Nobody complained when Dave proposed the wet weather route, and we headed out of Maidenhead, taking the B3024 through Waltham St Lawrence to Twyford. As we struggled against the howling right-hand side crosswind like a file of drunken ants, Dave emphasised the need to leave a good gap between oneself and the kerb as a safety zone. The pressure eased as we turned south through Hurst down to the crossroads at Winnersh, where Abe insisted on an early comfort break in the warmth of Sainsbury's (lucky for them, they provided dedicated facilities for the purpose!).
We carried on through Arborfield Cross and Swallowfield to do the loop around Wellington Country Park at Riseley. Despite the relentless wind, the sky had cleared, it was dry, bright and sunny and a good time was being had by all, even to the point of pitying the rest of you at home. Everyone was taking turns on the front for about 10 minutes apiece and we were cracking along at 20+ mph. However, a few stops at this stage of the ride for navigational and coaching reasons meant that we were overtaken by the same pair of mountain bikers 3 times. On each occasion, we had to discuss serious cycling matters in loud voices to make it very clear that we weren't just resting!
Approaching Farley Hill on the return leg, Dave had us ride all the way up in the big ring and middle cog on the back, while remaining in the saddle, to excercise special pain fibres. Everyone survived and we headed back the way we'd come, gritting our teeth as we came hard on the wind heading north out of Winnersh, fully exposed on the bridge over the A329(M). We ducked south of Hurst along the quiet country lanes to join up with the B3018 near Twyford. After Twyford, Derwent set sail straight back for Windsor, and the remaining three headed for home via Hare Hatch and the Walthams, gently drifting into the Pond House car-park at 12.45.
Distance covered was 42.8 miles at an average speed of 17.4 mph.
AS
Sunday 9th March
Yet another good turn out gathered at the Pond House despite the forecast of rain and wind! The riders were Per Porter, Martin Porter, John Nicholls, Mark Nathan, Jeremy Monk, Mike Mills, Robert Majewski, Dave Lambourne, Derwent Jeffery, Elaina Franklin, Pete Clifton and Erin. We set out through the Walthams to Twyford and crossed the A4 at the Wee Waif where surprise,surprise two cars gave way,even though they had the right of way! Through Sonning and on to the bottom of Playhatch hill where Dave had us do some high cadence training by spinning up the hill in bottom gear. Straight across at the Bird in Hand pub and on to Gallows Tree Corner where we stopped for a nature break and for Dave to adjust his cleats. This lead us to the narrow lane that emerges at Stoke Row by the Maharajah's Well and as we waited for a couple of stragglers Mike noticed air bubbles coming from his front tyre, but hoped against hope that it wasn't a puncture! Of course it was, but the tyre didn't go flat until we had reached Checkendon. After a reasonably quick repair we set off again, but only to stop again as Mike's tyre wasn't seated properly and of course this meant pumping up the tyre a second time! At Woodcote we started down Catsbrain Hill with a bit of a race between Mike, Per, Derwent, John and Pete to see who was bravest or fastest on the descent - honours shared!
At South Stoke we turned left and headed for Goring where we crossed a very swollen River Thames and at the lights we turned left for Pangbourne. You could almost hear the sighs of relief for those who had realised that straight on was Streatley Hill - all 16% of it! At Pangbourne we followed the A340 south until we reached the A4 and turned right towards Newbury, but only for a short distance until the sign for Sulhamstead where we turned left back down a quiet lane. Soon after we started to climb up towards Ufton Nervet and Dave suffered a bout of cramp in his legs and had to get off and walk until the cramp subsided. We passed through Burghfield Common and Grazeley Green and crossed the A33 at Three Mile Cross where we stopped at the local shops for supplies and for Mark and John to use the garage toilets - what's wrong with a bush Martin asked? At Spencers Wood we turned north through Arborfield, Winnersh, Hurst, Shurlock Row and White Waltham.
As we neared the A4 again, with everyone preparing for the sprint, Dave punctured. John and Mike were unaware of this as they concentrated on who might be waiting to pounce at the bottom of Punt Hill! John tried to maintain as high a pace as he could, but with tired legs was no match for Mike. Both had expected either Erin or Robert to come by at the last moment, but thanks to Dave's cunning plan to avoid the sprint this didn't happen!
Distance covered was 63.5 miles at an average speed of 17.4 mph.
Sunday 2nd March
Fourteen riders gathered for Mike's Mystery Tour outside the Pond House on a sunny, but windy morning. They were Pete Clifton, Elaina Franklin and her friend Anna, Derwent Jeffery, Dave Lambourne, Robert Majewski, Mike Mills, Jeremy Monk, Mark Nathan, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Abe Sharp, Tom Woolgar and Erin, who had travelled down from London.
Jim Alexander was on hand for a pre-ride chat and on the way back to riding, but not able to stand up for hills, after tearing an achilles tendon - OUCH!
The ride headed out of Maidenhead towards Cookham which surprised many of the riders as they were expecting to head south of the A4, not north! At the top of Cookham's main road we turned right to head back along the river road to Maidenhead and the confusion deepened even more! Just after rejoining the A4, we turned left and headed for Bray and then along the Windsor road to the turning for Fifield where Elaina and Emma left us, having already done an hour and had a prior engagement.
From Fifield we passed through Maiden's Green and followed signs for Bagshot with no one but Mike knowing that he was making the route up as we went along! Abe turned for home at this point and not long after we turned towards Bracknell on the A422 which was very busy and so we singled up until we reached the roundabout at the start of Nine Mile Ride near the Lookout (full of riders from The Dark Side - MTBers!). This meant turning into the wind along the rolling road and it certainly increased the effort needed to maintain our average of 17-18 mph! Erin and Mike led the way until a few of the others took pity and came past, but not everyone had the legs! Just as Mark thought we were turning for home, Mike turned the ride south again and down a winding lane until we saw signs for Eversley.
The pace started to rise on the straight road and one or two felt the strain, but fortunately John found a roundabout for everyone to ride completely round until the stragglers caught up! At Arborfield Cross we turned north for the usual route through Winnersh, Hurst and the Walthams. As we approached the railway bridge just after White Waltham someone let out a pained scream of CRAMP and abruptly stopped by the traffic lights!
After a few minutes we set off at a slow pace to rejoin the A4 and turned right for Maidenhead. The pace was quite restrained and Mike thought the usual sprint was postponed due to Dave's cramp. He should've known better as the ride was just itching to go for it - and when Dave mentioned the word 'sprint', mayhem ensued!They had not forgotten the other week when Mike showed them a clean pair of heels up Punt Hill and as he tried to accelerate they all came past! Erin made her move and just seemed to float past everyone up the hill and was first into the Pond House car park.
The distance was 52 miles at an average speed of 18 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 24th February
Easy report today - same route as 20th Jan (without getting lost).
THE END:
OK, OK - here's a bit more detail for those who are interested:
It was a fine spring-like morning, despite only being February & out came John, Robert, Pete, Martin, Alan, Derwent & Tim. The Chief Coach was absent today but had sent training instructions on ahead along the lines of "Go faster, avoid hills!"
No-one had planned a route so we decided to do the Silchester run of a month ago, only this time we hoped it would be free of calamities.
Out through the Walthams into an indecisive breeze with everyone taking turns on the front. The pace was a little too high to sustain for long & John rightly pulled us over near Twyford for a team-talk. We set off again & settled into a much steadier controlled pace which pleasingly continued for many many miles. Arborfield Cross, Swallowfield, Beech Hill all passed effortlessly by as we meandered down through Strathfield Saye, Brambly & onto Sherbourne St John. After passing the Silchester ruins we retraced our route through Beech hill. The wind was with us & the pace picked up but we still needed to keep it steady as legs were starting to tire. Robert & Tim raced up a hill-ette but as they slowed for the others to catch up another small group of riders came past. They were going quite a pace - we all gave chase but managed to miss our right turn. After a minor detour & a regroup we had a chance to take a breather - Tim got a rear wheel puncture (serves him right for riding a tyre with a gash in it!). Quickly mended, we turned off the busy main road by the church near Arborfield Cross, then made our way back towards Twyford. Derwent turned for home after WhiteWaltham whilst the rest of headed back to the PH.
TCB
59 miles at 17.1 mph.
Sunday 17th February
Another good turn out on a sunny Sunday outside the Pond House saw twelve members turn up. They were Andy Broadbent, Gordon Brown, Alan Church, Pete Clifton, Derwent Jeffery, Dave Lambourne, new member Robert Majewski, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Abe Sharp and Anthony Snyman.
A shorter, but faster run was the order of the day as Dave reckoned it was time to increase the average to avoid becoming used to riding at one speed. We set out through the Walthams on what is usually The Wet Weather circuit heading south through Hurst and Winnersh where we crossed the A329. With regular changes on the front of the ride the pace was nudging an average of 18 mph which was a little over what Dave had suggested, but was quite managible. As we approached the little bridge over the Blackwater River we saw ice at the side of the road and were reminded that although the sun was shining it was still only February!
We looped round the back of the Wellington Country Park and started to retrace our route. Mike realised that the ride was going faster than planned and that we would have to add on a few miles or we would be back in Maidenhead far too soon! Taking to the narrow lanes around Hurst and Binfield the time was stretched out and an impressed Robert wondered how Mike remembered all of the roads we had cycled - too many hours spent cycling instead of being at home with the family! Back past White Waltham airfield and up to the A4 saw the ride split a little as some of the ride prepared for the sprint from the Thicket roundabout back to the Pond House.
John, Robert, Gordon, Dave and Mike led the way and with speed that belies his age (Happy 69th. Birthday) Dave closed up on the four in front. Mike timed the sprint to perfection as we got to the bottom of Punt Hill and went past everyone and much to his surprise no one came past before turning into the car park!
We covered 51 miles at an average of 17.2 mph in a time of three hours.
Sunday 10th February
With almost a summer sun rising in the sky and despite it being cold the ride promised to be a good one - apart from the hills! Tim Brass, Andy Broadbent, Alan Church, Elaina Franklin, Derwent Jeffery, Dave Lambourne, Mike Mills, Jeremy Monk, John Nicholls, Martin Porter, Anthony Snyman and Robert set out from The Pond House through the Walthams and on to Twyford.
We crossed the A4 at The Wee Waif roundabout and headed on to Sonning where the traffic lights stayed red for what seemed ages and encouraged Andy to try and track stand until they changed to green - didn't work! Up the hill to Playhatch and Dave made a brave effort to stay with the younger riders, but had to settle back in to his own pace. Derwent had turned for home citing an engagement that he dare not miss! The ride re-grouped with John and Mike on the front which caused Andy to comment "You oldies have got too much stamina!"
At Binfield Heath we turned left and descended the narrow, gritty hill that lead us on towards Sonning Common or would have if we had not turned right for Harpsden! Martin said we were about to descend a "technical" hill - it had a bend in it! Mike jumped from the middle of the ride to the front and lead the way down the hill and on into Harpsden and then Henley. We headed out of Henley for the Stonor Valley and surprise, surprise we rode at what can only be described as club pace for most of hill! As the hill steepened the ride split with those that had more miles in their legs leading the way!
At the top of Pishill we stopped to regroup and enjoy the sunshine for a couple of minutes decide who was going to cut their ride short. Andy turned right with the intention of going home via Marlow and getting there in under eight minutes - no chance! At Cookley Green John, Martin, Mike, Alan, Tim and Anthony turned right and the rest headed for home. As we picked up speed near Swyncombe Church Anthony passed Mike and as the gradient steepened down the damp hill, a car came up the hill towards us! Anthony slowed until Mike shouted at him to speed up as the thought of braking downhill on a damp road brought visions of disaster, which fortunately was averted!
At Ewelme we turned left towards Benson and when we reached the Wallingford Road, John's eyes lit up when he spotted the cafe by the river, but to no avail as Tim is on a diet and time was getting on! At South Stoke we turned left up the long climb to Woodcote where we stopped to wait for Alan and Anthony who were running out of energy.
At Checkendon we turned right and headed for Sonning and the A4. This week we didn't have to head into the wind - much to everyone's relief! Martin left us to head for home by way of Twyford and the rest of us turned east for Maidenhead. Anthony needed a helping push from John as he was suffering from a groin strain and fatigue, but we finally got back to the Pond House with the final stats reading: distance covered 61 miles, at an average speed of 16.2 mph.
M.M
Sunday 3rd February
A massive turn out of 14 riders for this week's run gathered at The Pond House - some later than others! They were Simon Benge, Per Porter, Martin Porter, John Nicholls, Dave Lambourne, Derwent Jeffery, Jeremy Monk, Graham Giggs, Alan Church, Elaina Franklin, Mark Nathan, Mike Mills and two prospective members Robert and James.
We started the ride the same as last week by heading out of Maidenhead towards Cookham and then on to Bourne End where we turned right at the roundabout and headed for Wooburn Green. We passed Anthony Snyman who had arranged to at High Wycombe, but began to worry we were not coming and decided to start searching for us! With the ride now numbering fifteen we took the usual route through the narrow lanes past the rugby club and then onto the A40 and through High Wycombe heading west.
Several riders wanted to turn right and head for the Hughenden Valley but Mike had other plans! As we were about to turn right at West Wycombe's Hell Fire caves we spotted Paul Redman on the Quest Reliability Trial. This confused several people and for a moment we had to stop, but were soon on our way for the first climb of the ride. This being the hill we usually descend off of Bledlow Ridge, but to Dave's horror we were ascending - quell e horreur! The 16% gradient soon broke up the ride as Jeremy, the club whippet, took off and was chased up the hill by the stronger riders. As the stragglers caught up Derwent decided it was time for the first puncture of the day and we had to wait in a cold wind for the repairs to be carried out!
Alan turned for home as the rest of us began the fast descent of Rubbish Dump Hill. Mike and Per led the way with Per recording a maximum of 46 mph and the slightly less daredevil Mike managing 42 mph. At the bottom of the hill we regrouped and some decided that they wanted a shorter ride, but as Dave dislikes the fast Bradenham Road back to West Wycombe we all turned left for Watlington. As we passed through Chinnor Mike wondered if the ride might like to ride up Chinnor Hill, but took pity on them and continued on to the turning for the Stokenchurch climb on the A40. The fourteen became six as the ride split between those wanting a shorter ride and those who were on for the full distance. If only Anthony, who was suffering a bit due to lack of miles, had realised what was to come I think he would have turned for home whilst he still could! When we got to Watlington Graham decided to take the road up to Pishill and the the rest of us turned right towards Britwell Salome and Ewelme.
It was about then that it dawned on those that didn't know Mike's plan that they had to ascend Sliding Hill and you could almost see the pain on their faces! Anthony was fading fast and only having a 23 on the back was forced to stop for a breather. We stopped and re-grouped at Cookley Green and Anthony left us to head for home via Christmas Common and the A40. Martin, Mark, John and Mike headed on to Park Corner and turned right and then left by the golf course near Nuffield. We carried on and then turned right at Stoke Row and made our way to the top of Playhatch with the intention of a fast descent, but due to a strong head wind we had to pedal hard down hill!
Thankfully the traffic lights at Sonning were red and we could have a short rest. From Twyford we took the slightly longer route under the railway bridge to Waltham St. Lawrence where Martin turned for home and shortly after Mark followed suit. John and Mike were the only two to ride back to The Pond House. Scores on the doors: 61 miles at an average of 16 mph.
M.M.
Sunday 27th January
On a bright, but chilly morning Martin Porter, Abraham Sharp, Mike Mills, John Nicholls, Pete Clifton, Tim Brass, Dave Lambourne, Anthony Snyman and Per Porter gathered at The Pond House. After the usual chat and banter we were just about to leave when Per announced that he was not feeling 100% and was going to head home.
The rest of us then headed out of Maidenhead with Anthony and Mike on the front until we got to Cookham. We met a lone rider at the traffic lights on Cookham bridge and Dave started to chat to him as we headed for Bourne End. We stopped briefly for Dave to give him a Thames Velo card, but unfortunately Dave had run out of cards! Fortunately John had a pocket full and one to the prospective new member. We turned right at the roundabout in Bourne End and made our way to Wooburn Green and Loudwater. Pete was doing his usual of riding off the front and wasting energy which he would need later. High Wycombe was busy as ever and caused a delay as we had to wait for people to catch up after getting caught in traffic. We were soon heading up the Hughenden Valley with the ride mostly together at the start of the climb, but little groups formed and Dave, who was turning back at the top, charged past the middle group only to be passed again.
At the top we waited for the stragglers and discussed the forth coming Easter road race. John complained of the cold, but Mike assured him that there would soon be a hill to warm him up! With Dave gone we descended the hill and turned left towards Chequers and John and Mike managed to draft a police van until it turned off to keep a eye the PM's country residence!
We had stopped at the top of the next descent to let Pete and Anthony catch up as both have been off their bikes for some time and Anthony called it a day and headed for home. Mike led the dash down to Butler's Cross with Pete just behind. We went straight over at the crossroads and headed towards Princes Risborough and then under the railway bridge near Little Kimble and left on the straight road towards Chinnor - which meant heading into the wind all the way!
Martin and Tim took big turns on the front until we reached the bottom of the climb up to Stokenchurch - which was greeted with mixed emotions! Abraham, Tim, Martin and Mike led the way with John and Pete riding at a more sedate pace. As the climb progressed the leading quartet split with Abraham and Tim off the front then Martin and Mike each a couple of hundred yards behind. After a food stop at the top we turned right towards Christmas Common and then left down Pishill.
The usual race ensued with John,Martin and Mike leading until we passed the Crown pub where everyone caught up. The pace was hovering around the upper twenties until a herd of deer decided to cross the road through the little gap that had opened up between the duo of Tim and Abraham and the rest! With all momentum lost the chasing quartet took it a bit easier through Middle Assendon and Assendon to the junction where Tim and Abraham were waiting. We made our way through the traffic in Henley and turned right along the Wargrave road until the left turn for the climb up to Cockpole Green.
Poor old Pete was struggling up the hill as we all knew he would pay the price for his earlier efforts and thelack of miles. We turned left at the A4 and Martin left us to take the more scenic route back to Ascot. The usual charge along the A4 failed to happen until Tim hit the front near The Shire Horse pub and the pace went up for the last mile or so! John decided to play chicken with the traffic at the Thicket roundabout in an effort to catch Tim and Abraham and soon wished he hadn't as hit the front and ran out of steam!
Up Punt Hill Mike almost caught John after he was a bit more cautious at the roundabout with Pete bringing up the rear.
We covered 56 miles at an average of 16.5 mph.
Sunday 20th January
How to describe today's ride? Hmm, well it wasn't the most fluent of trips - lets just say it was eventful - not in an exciting way, but 3 punctures, a snapped chain, a bout of cramps, & some dubious navigation (by yours truly).
It all started off so promisingly too - 13 came out to play today on a mild & almost dry day: John, Martin, Per, MikeM, Dave, Jezz, Tom from Marlow (first-timer), Dean (Happy Birthday), Derwent, Tim, Steve, Graeme, & Mark. Tim suggested a new route - out into the wind in the direction of Silchester - not too hilly & with the option for some to turn back early if they wished.
All agreed, & we were off out through the Walthams, West End to Hurst. Somewhere around here Jezz (in some vivid but cool shades) punctured. Soon fixed, we continued through Winnersh to the Arborfield Cross roundabout: "Straight on" was called but half the group turned left! On track again & on to Swallowfield. Some indecision at a T-junction followed, before heading to Beech Hill. Dean turned for home to blow out the candles whilst the remainder pushed on into the headwind. After a bio-break we headed south to Bramley. John stopped to fix his little bag back on under his saddle, then "next left" was called ...& half went straight on ! Derwent's turn to puncture on route to Sherbourne St John, but again a quick fix.
Time to head homewards: As we picked up speed on route to Silchester we shed a few riders with tired legs. Another wrong direction enabled a regroup. Tim insisted we were not lost - just not on the official route! Back on track, passing the Roman remains of the Silchester settlement then onto Cycle Route 23 followed by... "puncture"! Graeme's turn.
We only managed a few hundred metres after this repair when there was a loud "crack" - Steve wobbled & stopped, leaving his chain behind. Martin was the only one with a chain tool & he had gone on ahead. Tim gave chase, then both u-turned. John & Steve made haste in repairing the chain whilst Per pointed out the plaque on the railway bridge where we had stopped. For any history buffs it read "Joseph Westwood & Co Engineering 1896". Judging by the rusty iron work we assume they went out of business sometime ago.
Off again but all too soon we lost Dave, John & Mike. Dave got bad leg cramp & pulled up, then started tweeking his saddle height!
The frustration was now showing - all around it was grey & damp, we were not progressing very quickly. A few guys were now going to be much later home than anticipated & were phoning to rearrange plans. Somewhat overdue, we now split up with 5 going on ahead. The rest of us continued at a steady pace...before splitting further, each taking their shortest way home.
Not perhaps the most fun of rides today, but definitely a route to try again in better weather.
Approx 60 miles at 16.0 mph.
TCB
Sunday 13th January
With Mike still confined to quarters, ten riders stood and chatted at the Pond House waiting for someone to suggest a route. Since there was a strong South-Easterly blowing (Per and Martin hardly had to turn a pedal on the ride over from Ascot), the consensus was to head in that direction and get blown back again. A plan!
So Abe, Jeremy, Dave, Martin, John, Elaina, Tom, Derwent, Mark and Per set off towards Bray. While discussing local eateries, the Velo encountered a ludicrously impatient motorist who decided to play chicken in the width restriction. Needless to say the riders carried on without blinking.
Turning left then right into Holyport, the wind really started to tell and speeds dropped. This pretty much set the tone along Drift Road and into North Ascot, but it was quite mild and the rain held off. We turned along the old mile at the racecourse and down Watersplash Lane into the Great Park, surprising at least one rider who didn't expect it!
Exiting the park at Blacknest Gate, Mark suggested a coffee stop at the (reopened) Saville Gardens. Most of the group seemed to be hanging on a bit, and this seemed like a good idea, so we turned around and rode up there past the Obelisk. Sadly our custom was not wanted there (something about health and safety - well you wouldn't want to meet us in the dark, would you), so we rode away again after Mark and Dave made the jobsworthy "manager" fully acquainted with all pertinent points about cycle facilities. We committed to find a cuppa in Ascot instead.
Riding round Virginia Water, we passed the Roman ruins (from Tripoli apparently) sited on the line of the Roman Road (Devil's Highway) to Silchester (as visited last year). Who says cycling doesn't teach you anything useful?
Dave, Jeremy, Elaina, Derwent and John turned right at the racecourse and were duly blown back to Maidenhead. The other four had a fine time talking the hind legs off beasts of burden in the cafe. I don't think we're quite ready for the big base miles just yet!
2 hours 25 mins, about 39 windy miles.
Best wishes to Mike for a speedy recovery. We're missing our runs leader!!
Sunday 6th January
It was a chilly & frosty start with a few frozen puddles to avoid...but the bright sun enticed out Martin, Abe, Ian, Paul (well done on the 3rd place at Hillers), Dean, Jez & Tim. With route-Master-Mike off sick we made a hasty decision to go on a well ridden route towards Amersham:
Left at Maidenhead Bridge & up through the lanes to Littleworth Common. It was hard to know if the shiny roads were just wet or whether they were icy - we took it steadily just to be safe. Just one stretch of road around Egypt Woods was very white & icy - but after a few slips & wheel spins we got safely through . On to Gerrards X, Chalfont St Giles & down hill to the A355. Paul forgot to unclip from his pedals & ended up on the tarmac. Just to prove he had only hurt his ego - he raced up the next climb to Coleshill.
It was Paul again who made the headlines after the climb up through Amersham - this time only a front wheel puncture. His replacement tube had a hole in it & so Tim provided another spare. This took a while to sort out but fortunately it was in a warm, sunny spot. Meanwhile Ian did some additional hill training & Dean turned for home.
Finally on our way again - it was out through Hyde Heath to Great Missenden, along the Hampden Valley, up, then dropping down Hughenden before a stop at the bottom for a munch break.
The sun was fading & we were feeling the chill. The banter stopped as Ian led the group through High Wycombe & then on the usual route through Bourne End, Cookham & finally back to the PH.
Just 49 miles at 16.5mph