Ride Reports

Sunday 5th. June

Dave Siswick
Medium Plus Ride

A grey start to the day, but the twelve riders who lined up for the medium plus were bright enough – Barbara, Monica, Debbi, James, Steve, Margaret, Mike, Peter, Andy, John and not pictured Maris and me.

Two groups formed to follow Route 26 on road to Spofforth then off road to Walton and from there up the Roman Road (Rudgate) to Whixley, swerving off route to stop at Tancred Farm Cafe. Although a chance of rain had been forecast it was still dry when we emerged so we took the longer way back via the Dunsforths and Boroughbridge. We did become fragmented as the pace varied, but all twelve riders appeared at Sandy Banks about the same time and from there various routes home were taken.
Thanks to all for making it such an enjoyable ride – 45 miles, 1590ft of climbing at an average speed of 12mph. Tim (T2).

Medium Steady Pace Ride

My previous efforts to lead a ride had been foiled by weather; snow, ice, wind and or rain! Even on this June day there was a cold wind and threats of thunderstorms.

Four volunteers joined me at the show ground Alison Sally Steve and Dave. We exchanged mobile numbers just in case and used the traffic free paths to Hornbeam. Steve led the way as we avoided the worst of the potholes then back on the published route to Beckwithshaw. Sally then took the lead going so well that we had to stop while Dave removed a layer and I was tempted to find out what she’d eaten for breakfast! I managed to get the KoM points at the top of Norwood Lane but I needed to catch my breath so suggested we admire the view. How lucky we are to live where we do.

The route was pretty straightforward but the roads weren’t too busy, the busiest it got was when we turned downhill towards Darley and the river Nidd and a lot of cyclists with numbers on their handlebars came the other way. A second reminder of the day that the challenge rides are approaching with distances to suit all tastes, the first reminder from Tim at the show ground.

As planned Sally and Alison headed for home at the top of Stripe Lane. Cafe options are limited on this route especially on a chilly day when being out of the wind is desirable. We opted for the Brimham Rocks adventure farm, not the greatest prospect but they have hot food and drink, including that cyclists’ staple baked beans. It was good to be in the warm and the noise from the children’s play area didn’t affect conversation. Outside at the picnic table will wait until warmer weather. We talked of challenge rides and I was full of admiration for anyone who is taking a ride further or higher than their previous best, good luck Steve! I was with a new bunch of cyclists who couldn’t say they’d heard my jokes or anecdotes before or know to remember they needed to be elsewhere. I was aware of the potential for rain so kept it shortish, by my standards.

There were spots of rain in the air as we set off but that was the worst it got. Once past Brimham Rocks the ride home was a delight, decent roads mostly downhill and past the Drovers with a helpful wind. We used the Greenway to get back into Harrogate parting company at Bilton Lane. An enjoyable if chilly day in excellent company and finally I have lead a club ride, this one 33 miles.     Chris B

 

Short Ride
Sue T, Martin, Debbyand Liz P set off from the Showground and were soon joined by Justine, continued who left us at the bottom of Brackenthwaite Lane. At the top, Sue T went R while the remaining 3 went left and continued through Rigton and past Almscliffe Crag. We then turned left down to Huby and on to Weeton and Kirkby Overblow. Here there was an inviting sign in the pub so we stopped for coffee and a good chat, once we found a table that was not reserved though the pub was otherwise empty. We then continued over the bypass and back to the Showground. Just over 19 miles and 1, 846 feet. Liz P.