|
Club Rides 2005 |
||
|
Club Ride Sunday 18th DecemberRhys Fights Back The weather was kind to us again, with about twenty riders taking starter's orders. Most noteworthy was the eagerly awaited reappearance of Jon Butt, back after an autumn of idleness, injury and sloth, and still trying to sell his 2005 racing licence. There being little resistance to the idea of revisiting the chocolate factory at Mullion, we headed off towards the Lizard. Goldsithney and Millpool soon passed, then a little detour to Germoe, before taking in Godolphin, Sithney and Coverack Bridges. At Wendron, the fairies from Cyclelogic, looking for some smooth tarmac, were thwarted and forced to do some Paris-Roubaix down the back lanes to Pemboa. Heading south from Gweek, there was some big talk about extra hills, but that's all it was, just talk. By the time we reached Trelowarren, some had turned back, so missed the flat bit across Goonhilly Downs. At Mullion, the usual people headed on home and the usual people headed for the cafe. Rhys, fearing a bonk, stopped at the shop and doubled their weekly profits. Undeterred, he joined us at the cafe and reasserted his authority in the eating department - bright new eating star Matthew being firmly put in his place. Steve and Chris could only look on with envy, realising what they'll be missing in France next season. Phil paid for his own food for two weeks running. Afterwards, Mark took so long in the loo, that we became concerned for his safety, but luckily nothing unpleasant had happened to him and we all made it up Poldhu Cove hill. Helston passed without incident, but unfortunately, on the sharp bend after the descent from Wendron, Phil's wheels slid away from under him, and he ended up on the road with numerous grazes, cuts and bruises. It was then a matter of helping him to limp home via Black Rock. Hope you're feeling a bit better by now, Phil. All that remained was to avoid doing some extra miles with Steve and Chris, not too difficult as decisions go! [21/12/05] Club Ride Sunday 11th DecemberRhys Thrashed by Newcomer Matthew at Smokey Joe's A brilliant morning - sunny and no wind - with 15 riders taking up the challenge. Tonks was late as usual and took some verbal stick from the rowdier elements present. With Lloyd plotting the route we set off eastwards. From Marazion we dawdled across to St Erth and Hayle, before reccying the Boxing Day '10' course at Leedstown - scene of Steve Lampier's memorable thrashing last year. Then on to Praze, and an unusually sedate climb up to Black Rock, before sampling the delights of Four Lanes and Lanner Hill. As we reached Bike Chain, the relentlessly slow pace began to tell - Stuart had mechanicals, and him and Andy used this as an excuse to miss refreshments. Even worse, Rich succumbed to the temptations of nearby home, which meant that Phil would have to buy his own grub at the cafe for a change. At Smokey Joe's Cafe the real hardmen got stuck in. Normally consistent glutton Rhys thought he'd easily maintain his domination of cafe training when he ordered four rounds of toast, but I have to report that he was totally and utterly eclipsed by Matthew who consumed the most enormous baguette and followed it up with two rounds of toast. Even Alan Jones would have been impressed. The cooked breakfasts looked enormous, but then so too did the peole who were eating them! However, there seemed to be some support for the idea of a special Xmas breakfast ride - watch this space, it could be an epic. Back outside, Mark had to overcome some back wheel sabotage by the two remaining gay Cyclelogic boys, before we could head back down the north coast. Matthew managed to keep everything down up Portreath Hill and the sun was still shining as we meandered home. [12/12/05] Club Ride Sunday 20th NovemberWish I'd Gone to Wadebridge A bloody freezing cold start to the Cycle-logic club ride from Camborne and finger freezing hour ride down to our PZW chums at Longrock. Surprised to see so many riders out considering the big race at Wadebridge, must have been 20 riders, didn't know the wheelers could muster such numbers (they must have dragged out some of the old boys). The big group took a slow ride up the main rode to Helston, Layton was red carded on the climb to Ashton but Tonks selective myopia was missing the big splits. After the descent from hilltop garage we took a left to go up the main street, I say we because only 5 riders took this route, the back seat drivers taking the easier route. The elite squad was born (Eddie, Dave, Andy, Bob and I) and headed off to Bissoe up any major col we could find, the character building route was carefully selected to include every 42x21 hill I could think of because Andy was struggling with a jumping 42 ring which forced him to be a real hardman and climb on the big ring (you should have seen the shapes he was throwing). I forced a cafe stop upon the squadra as I needed to quieten down my hang-over and to allow Andy to fix his punctured Amardildo, the talk was of the big mileage training of yesteryear when men were men but we all went slower. I dutifully obliged and headed home via the Devoran, Point loop including that knee breaking climb out of Point. We then headed over to Porthtowan prior a stirring rendition of Jerusalem on the climb out of Portreath and then the big adios amigos at the top, Andy and Ed going home via Illogan. The remainder taking in the vistas of the North Coast road including a sighting of Wendy Houvandangle, a chick on a bike whatever next, no wonder there's so much crime up the line. A big 5 hours riding deposited into the bank of hardmen, all at an average speed of above 18mph and some very puffed out riders, we are none the wiser as to where the B stream went but in the words of my PE teacher they 'must try harder'. [Stuart Pickering 7/11/05] Club Ride Sunday 13th NovemberBrief Report Thirteen riders, shower delayed start, sun came out and stayed out, Golsithney, Godolphin, Nancegollan, Black Rock, Stithians, Perranwell, Bissoe, 5 stopped for cakes, Chacewater, Mike punctured, Portreath, hill(!!!), Hayle, and dispersal. Sorry, no time for details. [14/11/05] Club Ride Sunday 6th NovemberCyclelogic Cafe Police Defeated Again The gales roared and the rain pounded down all night, but this did not deter the real hard men of West Cornwall - Bob, Phil, Rich, Stuart, Andy, Mark, John Morse (who sent me a copy of Don Hutchinson's account of their epic Roscoff-Nice ride earlier this summer see News page), Tony, and 'Tonks', back from his Australian exploits. Nine riders had reluctantly prised themselves out of bed and cycled to Long Rock, accompanied every now and again with a blustery shower, secretly hoping that no one else would turn up, so that they could scuttle back home for an early breakfast. The fact that a quorum was established and that there was no escaping a ride, led to indecision about the route. This was ruthlessly exploited by Stuart, who led us away from Godrevy Cafe into the depths of the Penwith hills. After an hour we emerged again at the Trevescan Cafe, but the true club riders and cake eaters were prevented from stopping and forced to endure another hour of muddy lanes back to Penzance. Fortunately, the weather improved and three cafe police headed home while the six true clubmen found a new watering hole by the harbour which served excellent coffee and cakes. I'll leave you to work out who stopped and who didn't. Then we continued east through Gulval, Crowlas, St Erth and Hayle. Mike went home and missed out on the through-and-off to Leedstown, but then so too did Phil and Mark who were conspicuous only by their absence from the front. The final split was made at Leedstown - Mark obviously learned something from last week: he sneaked off towards Goldsithney while I wasn't looking![7/11/05] Club Ride Sunday 30th OctoberWheelers Have Difficulty Coping with Global Warming and Time Change Another Sunday forecast wrong! Warm, sunny and humid - despite the strong wind - and an extra hour in bed. Only six riders though - Mark, Stuart, Bob, Phil, Richard (Goulden) and me. We decided to head westwards again, into the wind. Those with expensive Assos thermal winter gear on, soon started to regret it as we hit the first hill out of Mousehole and over-heating became a problem. After slithering down the little used steep descent into Lamorna, Bob decided to head for home feeling a bit under the weather. Richard and Phil were looking frisky on the front, as we managed to avoid Treen hill. It was only 10.00am as we approached Trevescan, and incredibly Stuart seemed to be the instigator of an unprecedentedly early cake stop. Undoubtedly there will have to be an independent inquiry on behalf of the Cyclelogic cafe police - a resignation would not at all surprise me. The chocolate cake consumed by Phil and Mark was obcenely copious and sticky and Mark had to be reprimanded for enticing the cafe dog into cattle-worrying activities. With a following wind the pace became alarmingly fast, with Richard (I-have-not-raced-enough-this-summer) prominent on the front. As we headed around St Just, Phil became rather over-exited by 'dogging' signals from passing cars, and I fear that this sapped his strength for the challenges still to come. The pace continued to be brisk through Pendeen, and we nearly stopped for more refreshments at Geevor! By the time we reached the climb up to 'Eagle's Nest' Phil and Richard were beginning to pay for their earlier impetuousity, but we eventually sped down to Lelant and regrouped for the finale. Richard turned for Penzance and the remaining four conquered Connor Downs before dispersing at Carnhell Green. Mark, how did you get on with that final climb up to you van at Breage? Tee hee![31/10/05] Club Ride Sunday 23rd OctoberGeevor - A Ride of Two Groups Dubious forecast didn't seem to deter twelve riders, who were rewarded by a fine morning. Winter bikes and gear more in evidence this week. Dave looking tanned after a week in Mallorca, Bob very smart in his new PZW top, Tom squeezing in another club ride between time trialing in France and racing in South Africa, guest reappearance by Mel after successful racing season 'up country', Rhys still on racing machine after unsuccessful attempt to revive winter bike, Steve made it from Falmouth after recovering from disgraceful episode of previous weekend, Layton obviously surviving married life, Lloyd ramping up training for Boxing Day '10', Mark taking a break from serial DIY, Stuart still without mudguards, Phil fresh from not enough racing this season, but still no Jon Butt. After two weeks heading east, there was only token opposition to a trip out west. An initial loop through St Erth was followed by some cyclo-cross in Lelant, an exchange of greetings with the golfers, exploration of back lanes around St Ives, before hitting the hills of the north Penwith coast. Tom showed us how to ride up to Eagle's Nest in the big ring, some riders sneaked off just after Zennor, and seven of us eventually sampled the delights of the cafe at Geevor. Return route was more direct, over the moors, round the back of Penzance to Crowlas, across to St Hilary, then down into Praa Sands so that Phil could scrounge some Barlowworld kit from Tom. Mark picked up his van at Breage. Final dispersal at Nancegollan. [24/10/05] Club Ride Sunday 16th OctoberMullion - A Ride of Two Halves Overcast, damp but warm morning. Nine riders assembled with a hopeless mixture of winter and summer bikes and clothing. After delaying tactics, Mullion was selected as the destination. The route out saw us safely negotiate Goldsithney, Godolphin, Sithney, Helston, Trewennack, Gweek, Goonhilly and Mullion. Five of us stopped at the cafe and the others trundled on. The coffee, cakes and beans on toast were up to the usual standard. Then the rain started and only Rich had mudguards, so it was either scrambling for his wheel or hitting the front. Then the rain became torrential and everyone got very wet anyway. The wetter we became the faster we went, to keep warm. Rich kept saying how much he was enjoying it - must be something to do with cyclo-cross. Glad to get home. Bike needs cleaning yet again. [16/10/05] Club Ride Sunday 9th OctoberBissoe and Dung Club ride reports have been in short supply since Jon Butt went into mid-summer hibernation. Where are you Jon? You're in danger of loosing your sprint crown, and we miss dropping you on the hills. Anyway, sunny morning with about 12 riders, including GB World Championships rider Tom Southam. Funny how there was a curious absence of sprints and uphill surges - I wonder why? Standard route to Stithians, through Millpool, Sithney, Coverack Bridges, Wendron and Rame. After Stithians, a moment of collective weakness saw us influenced by Stuart and led down the only wet and s--t covered lane in Cornwall. By the time we reached Ponsanooth everyone's bike was thoroughly concreted with fresh dung. Thanks a bundle Stuart. Then another unexpected deviation at Perranwell saw the peloton widely dispersed, with some of us paying an unexpected visit to the tip at United Downs. Thankfully, everyone safely regrouped at the Bissoe Cafe. In memory of Jon Butt, we took the usual route home via Chacewater, Portreath Hill (eat your heart out, Jon, see what you're missing), Hell's Mouth, Hayle, St Erth and Goldsithney. Steve Lampier explained that he might not be able to make some of the Sunday rides due to pressure of work at Trelawney's and fear of not being able to keep up. I tried to reassure him that we'd wait for him if he got dropped. [10/10/05] Club Ride Sunday 26th JuneLizard Rock 9 riders turned up on an overcast but very warm morning. Another new rider, Stuart (no sign of his namesake - after his report of the SAW 10 probably a good thing!). Others included Steve, Dave, Phil, Ed, Mike, Bob and Richard. Good start with at least 50% of riders stating time they had to be home by, I think the bidding stopped at 10 o’clock Headed through the lanes to Godolphin, Sithney and Helston, Richard fresh from his Italian job turned back at Hilltop - not enough hills and maybe the pace was the wrong side of 15mph for him. Dropped down into Helston with Dave and others once again struggling to keep up with Jon Butt’s super fast 40mph+ downhill sprint. Dave turned back soon after! Good climb out of Helston with Steve pulling out a good gap, with reactions from Phil and Bob. Regrouped at top of hill and Phil had a call from home so headed back home. Remaining group headed past Culdrose and over to Mawgan, Steve once again attacked on the hill - is he the new club climber? Stuart was starting to wish he had brought some food, so we headed across to Kuggar (sprint victory number 2 for Jon) and Kennack Sands in search of a shop, sadly the only thing Kuggar could offer was Rock - which he declined, of course. Nice run across to the Lizard and Tonks decided to go for the sprint with 3 miles to go, of course Jon Butt came blistering past to take yet another flat out sprint (3 out of 3) Tea and cake stop at the Lizard was good. Headed straight back to Helston, good pace past Culdrose, climb out of Helston saw Tonks take some risks at the round about to open up a good gap at the bottom. Bob and Jon took the bait, with Bobs ‘standing up legs’ going half way up the climb (has Bobs climbing crown been knocked of by Steve) - Jon surged past him to catch Tonks at the summit (although there was a small dispute afterwards as to exactly where the top of the hill is!) Group headed back across to Leedstown with Ed putting in the attack of the day to take Leedstown with about a 5 minute gap - group split at Leedstown. Another good ride, just tipped 60 miles when I reached St Ives, average speed 16.5mph. [Jon Butt 27/6/05] Club Ride Sunday 19th JuneHayle for Leather!!!! Seven riders turned up on a very misty, foggy, wet morning. New rider from Hayle (sorry I’m hopeless with names!). With several riders moaning about the proposed route, Mike Tonkin took control of the situation and suggested we head for a factory/warehouse type café stop (was he looking for some new leather gloves). We headed across to Hayle, up to Connor Downs, across to Praze and up over Black Rock, Simon turned back at the lower part of the climb as Bob started to put the hammer down - the summit was reached and Jason Ball surged ahead to take the prime. Although the mist was so bad I’m taking his word for it as I felt the urge to stop half way up the climb to take in some interesting Fauna on the roadside. We continued down to Redruth with some confusion at the traffic lights, the natural pull downhill towards Portreath won the argument, Jason led a brisk ride to the factory shop at Bridge. Not the best Café stop - poor selection of jaffa cakes, and a long walk through the store, past some interesting leather goods. After a brief stop the group headed up and over Portreath hill (Jon Butt complaining as usual) - after regrouping at the top (thanks for waiting guys) we saw a brief spurt along the flat section by Bob and Mike. Past a very nice Café at Hells Mouth and a fast run down through Gwithian, past another very nice Café - the climb out of Gwithian, saw strong man Mark pushing our new friend from Hayle past the rest of us - not Marks best tactic for the sprint for Hayle as he was soon to find out! Jon Butt easily took the super fast flat out sprint for Hayle with the other riders struggling to keep on his wheel - a true club run sprinter, despite the comments on http://pzwheezers.com The group then split in Hayle with Mark continuing his marathon ride back to Falmouth closely followed by Bob. Home in time for lunch, 50 miles on the clock and average speed of 16.5mph, plus more importantly extra points in the bag for the sprint - a good ride, despite the poor choice of Café[Jon Butt 20/6/05] Club Ride Sunday 12th JunePoor Richard It was 5 who arrived at Long Rock on a bright morning. Your participants on todays jolly were, Jon Butt fresh from watching laps 29 and 30 from yesterdays Portreath Crit, Rhys fresh from watching laps 9 through 30!!, Stuart Pickering looking for excuses never to race again and Andy Ellis (more of his success later). Richard Goulden, looking forward to The Grand Fondo Campagnolo next weekend, clearly was ready for a solid ride to polish his Italian preparations. He surveyed the assembled riders and would have thought that a reasonable ride was in the offing. How wrong first impressions could be...... His face dropped further and further as one by one the excuses poured out before we set sail on a direct course for Mrs Miggins. "But I wanted to get some miles in was his only reply". John was the only rider looking to have a spring in his pedalling took a magnificent "Caution!! road narrows" sign sprint. Yes dear reader we were in the tea shop before 10.15 a club record of that I have no doubt. While sampling the bakewell tart,carrot cake and a more modest cupcake Stuart made his feeling towards the French absolutely clear, even if he is partial to the odd french rim!! and pored scorn on Richard and Rhys who it seems support the whole of the Britsh cycling press. From the tea shop enthusiasm plummeted and we set off virtually straight for St. Ives. Rhys was dropped on every hill/slight incline and turned off at St Erth for the slow slog back to Long Rock. I expect that Richard continued on a vast Penwith epic but have no doubt that it would be a solo effort. Good luck next week. In all I reckon a grand total somewhat shy of 25 miles. I can't wait for the true racing season, that will be October and November then!! [Rhys Ellis-Davies 12/6/05] Club Ride Sunday 29th MayThe Elusive Cake Stop A fine sunny day, light winds, warm enough to see exposed arms and legs! The group included Mike, Steve Cox, Bob, Stuart P, Alan(?) myself and a long absent Jon Moore. News of an 'epic' that had left Camborne police station at 7.30am that morning for Wadebridge and Padstow returning on the north coast road begs for a report from one of the hardmen who undertook this route. We, meanwhile meandered around the lanes towards and away from 'Mrs Miggins' for the best part of 3 hours before finally being allowed to stop. I couldn't say for sure which roads we took because lots of them were very new to me! An enjoyable ride at a very steady pace. Congrats to the testers on there various sub hour pb's. [Richard Goulden 30/5/05] Club Ride Sunday 22nd MayDodging Showers Ten riders. Ben down from London, Mark back from Spanish training, Richard building up for grand fondo, Jon practicing for Ventoux, Rhys preparing for Iron Man, Alan getting fitter, Paul and Steve miss out on cakes, Bob doing Pantani impression, and me longing for summer. Discount cakes was priority of day - Goldsithney, Millpool, Bal West, Ashton, Porthleven, 'Hill Top' Garage, Lowertown, Wendron, Gweek, Goonhilly, cakes and coffee, 'through-and-off', Kuggar, Ruan Minor, Helston, numbers dwindling, 'Hill Top' Garage again, Leedstown, Rellubus, Goldsithney, and final split. No sprints, some fast stretches, plenty of 'craic'. Wonder how Cyclelogic's closet testers coped with a sporting '16'. [23/5/05] Club Ride Sunday 15th MayOnly Hard Riders Need Apply - 2 Versions Rain, wind, cold. More like January than May. In other words, the sort of weather that separates the men from the sheep. The roll-call at Long Rock: a mere four. This was soon reduced to three before a pedal was even turned. Rhys, having spent so long acquiring tough-rider status, saw this reputation crumble in an instant, getting back into his nice warm car and choosing not to mix it with the real cyclists around rain-sodden Penwith. A spectacular fall from grace. So it was that Bob, Lloyd and Mike gritted their teeth and set off, making their way through Penzance and Newlyn to Mousehole. By Paul, things were starting to warm up, and with a following wind they made their way to Drift and then up to Sancreed. Here they encounterd Terry and Chris Mappin going in the other direction. It was then across the moors to St.Just, Bob applying the pressure as usual. Through Botallack and Carnyorth, the caff at Geevor was soon reached, Mike's mudguard bringing him to a halt nicely as it jammed itself between wheel and fork crown. On the return journey, Lloyd and Bob continued along the north coast in the mist, while Mike turned at Pendeen. Sean Kelly eat your heart out. [Lloyd Peters 16/5/05] Saturday night: get bike and stuff ready for the ride down to Penzance Sunday Morning @ 6.20am Make coffee, look out of window, thinks "bugger this I'll drive down" Sunday Morning @ 6.24am Back in bed Sunday morning @ 8.00 am Coffee number 2, bike in car Sunday morning @ 8.20 am Driving down to PZ. Sunday morning @ 8.55 am Long Rock. Thinks thank f##k for that no one else has arrived. Bob arrives, then Lloyd. A decision is made (Weather1 Wheelers 0). Just then Mike turns up and insists that he needs to do 20!!!. My mind was already made up and its back up the A30 for me. Sounds like a big wimp out but I did manage an 17-18 mile run so all was not lost.[Rhys Ellis-Davies 16/5/05] Club Ride Sunday 8th MaySprinting and Bonking Eight riders assembled at Long Rock, knowing that this day, it was always going to be hard...to match the previous week's cake consumption. The first few miles proved deceptive: flat and with a following wind to Penzance, along to Newlyn and thence to Mousehole, picking up Tristan on the way. Just in case anyone had got complacent, we then struggled up Raginnis Hill, regrouping at the top. From here it was back in the direction of Penzance for a couple of miles, before turning left through Chyenhall. Things started to get interesting. First Chris came off on a corner, though not before making dog-walking lady leap 3 feet in the air. Just a minute or two later we all had to turn around in the road as we encountered the biggest tractor this side of the Wurzels 2nd album. It was then past Drift dam and on through Sancreed, climbing up steadily to emerge at St.Just. From here the route took us out to Nancherrow, where we turned right to follow the coast road to St.Ives. Village signs were proving just too much temptation for the sprinters in the peloton, John Butt in particular going for a long one through Pendeen. Strangely, he'd failed to inform us the sign he had in mind was one that read 'Milk from accredited fresians.' Perhaps this can be added to the list of legendary Penwith primes. As if following a theme, we were soon stopped in our tracks by more bovine intervention - a herd in the road at Gurnards Head. It was here that Simon and Tristan turned for home, or was it that they were following the cows a little too enthusiastically? Getting my excuse in early, I contrived to lose my chain just before Zennor, the effect of which was to put a gap between myself and the main group before the climb to Eagle's Nest. Using local knowledge, John then led us into St.Ives, promising all and sundry a battle royal for another sprint prime sign he was sure was located in the vicinity of Carbis Bay. We descended to Lelant where we tirned towards Hayle, picking up Jim Payne on the way, who appeared to have stopped to admire the view of the printer's. The goal was soon reached - Godrevy café. Despite having to queue, it proved a good choice, especially the fruit cake. John regaled us with his pre-war racing stories and we all played sofa squash. Afterwards, Rhys, rapidly becoming the mile-eating hardman of the Wheelers, turned for Newquay, accompanied by Tony and Chris. Myself and John had the equally arduous trek back to St.Ives. Well, there was a headwind.[Lloyd Peters 12/5/05] There's eye witness testimony that Rhys succumbed to a serious bonk between Portreath and Cubert. Photos for Page 3 please - large cash reward. [13/5/05] Club Ride Sunday 1st MayA Dream Come True - A Trip to 'Mrs Miggins' With an elite road race squad in South Wales (send us a report lads), the PZW Crit races yesterday (send us a report someone), and competition from the randonee at St Agnes (a report would be nice), it was not surprising that only eight riders assembled at Long Rock. It didn't take much for Lloyd to persuade us that the main focus of the ride should be quality cakes, so we left it to him to plot a devious route to Sithney. A leisurely pace and the emergence of the sun encouraged plenty of 'craic' as we wended our way through Millpool, Godolphin, Nancegollan (new rider - sorry don't know your name turned for home here), Releath, Black Rock (Steve Cox headed back to Falmouth here), the lanes behind Troon, Barriper, Carnhell Green, Nancegollan (again - I told you it was a devious route), and finally Sithney. The warm welcome from our hosts and the sumptuous selection of home-made cakes played havock with the feeble willpower of the six remaining riders, necessitating an extended stay and extensive sampling and re-sampling activities, strictly in the interests of carbo replacement from yesterday's exertions of course. Although I'm not sure what Mike Tonkin's excuse was - DIY bathroom activities perhaps? The speed was distinctly sluggish as we headed towards Godolphin (again), but surely faster than Stuart, who we encountered travelling in the opposite direction. Did he manage to resist the cakes? At Townshend, Mike split for Penzance, at Hayle Lloyd and Mark peeled off, Rhys was escorted to his car on the way to Gwithian, and Bob (in his remarkably realistic Marco Pantani look-alike costume) was abandonned at Connor Downs. Just after Carnhell Green (again), I encountered Layton, who was having trouble holding his Dad's wheel! [2/5/05] Club Ride Sunday 10th AprilBlown Down South Well eleven riders turned up on a good morning, a little breezy but dry. The group headed through the lanes to Gulval and Heamoor, turning right to climb up through Madron (!!!!) Daves new lightweight racing machine came into its own at this point, but the boys were good and waited at the top for him. Nice decent down a very narrow lane to Newbridge and across the lanes heading towards Sancreed, where we saw the first Blow out of the Day - Brendan , you really need to have some bicycle maintenance lessons mate, as 20 minutes to change a tube is not good (okay he had to do it twice and there was several people helping, or rather laughing) - anyone remember Monty Python’s Bicycle Repair Man? Once sorted out we headed through the lanes to Drift and straight across to pick up the Newlyn to Porthcurno road, a couple of riders including Dave turned back to Penzance, while the rest of us headed towards St Buryan, at which point Brendan and a few others turned back. Suddenly there was only 5 riders left - so we headed across to Sennen and St Just (another rider headed back to PZ) eventually stopping at Geevor - Bob was getting ‘Pedal Happy’ by sprinting out of corners so by the time we stopped we were all pretty knackered. Spotting a quick route home to St Ives that would have been a pleasant solo ride was soon dampened as we split in Pendeen when Mike and the lad from Falmouth (I’m hopeless with names - sorry) both headed back to Penzance, but Bob decided to accompany me back to St Ives - which I have to say was a low point in my cycling career - despite eating plenty of cake at the café I managed to blow big time at Bosigran, with Bob waiting for me each time the road got lumpy, the only way I could shake him off was by dropping back and pretending to make an unscheduled toilet stop - and not remounting until he was out of sight. Just under 50 very lumpy miles, average speed still in double figures (just!) made full use of sofa in the afternoon, now working out how to sell my BCF racing licence - one careful owner, never raced - any offers?.[Jon Butt 18/4/05] Club Ride Sunday 20th MarchWales Win Grand Slam Once again we hit the magic figure of 20 riders, bolstered by the appearance of up-country member Ben Pochee, who finished just behind Steve Lampier in the recent Perfs Pedal Race, training partner Mark Mackay, winner of many top level races in the 90's, and second claim member Mel, who won a recent women's race on the Hillingdon circuit. Also, club capitain Lloyd made a welcome reappearnace after a frustrating time with a back injury. Unfortunately, we also had to face Rhys, brazenly sporting his Welsh jersey, to celebrate a lucky win in the Six Nations. Unbroken sunshine encouraged us to head in the direction of the Lizard peninsula via Goldsithney, Newmills, Godolphin, Sithney and Helston, where early leavers started turning for home. A rare detour to Mullion allowed us to squeeze in a couple of extra hills, although Richard deliberately punctured so the we could all recover before enjoying the climb out of Poldhu Cove. Stuart, fresh from his 3rd placing in an up-country road race last weekend, showed us an interesting new lane from Mullion Holiday Park to Kuggar, although disappointingly it did miss a good climb. Stuart then led us briskly across the Downs, fragmenting the peloton nicely before the cafe stop at the Goonhilly Earth Station, where ten of us enjoyed good value for money. Even Stuart stopped! On the return, Phil and Richard split at Helston, Stuart at Sithney, Rhys started getting frisky on the hills, Lloyd and Jon headed off at Townshend, and the rest of us dispersed at Marazion. Another really good ride. [21/3/05] Club Ride Sunday 13th MarchAnother Record Day of Thrills Spills and Portreath Hill! Smaller group than usual turned up at a damp start in Longrock. Group started heading through Mazazion and instantly Bob moved to the front (!) heading across to Leedstown via Relubbus Hill (last time we saw Lloyd) Bob still going strong and looking forward to climbing Black Rock and suggested the hillest route possible to, yes you guessed it Bissoe, Falmouth Steve pointing out which section of the climb hurt the most - and he was right it is the bit just after the corners. Brendan turned back for Newlyn at Four Lanes. After that straight forward run into Bissoe, Tea and Toasted Tea cakes all round for the remaining five. Headed towards Blackwater then onto Cambrose - where we saw the first of the days struggles with these modern clipless pedals Neal managed to fall quite heavily at a T junction - perhaps using the brakes to stop may be more conventional. After a short break dropped down into Portreath, with the usual moaners complaining about having to climb Portreath Hill, the five of us turned the sharp bend half way up and Neal decided a gear change would be a good idea during which he managed to push the rear mech into his wheel break the chain and fall off yet again this time in a rather comical way finally ending up on his back - look pedals still firmly locked onto his shoes with the bike in a vertical upside down position - during this time Bob and the guy from Falmouth (sorry forgot your name) must have seen an opportunity to attack - never to be seen again. Neal phoned for a lift home (hopefully got back okay) while Jeremy (Down From London) and Jon Butt (still complaining about Portreath Hill despite having a break half way up) started to continue up the remaining part of the hill, Jeremy managed to mimic Neal by falling of whilst pulling away - slightly more graceful than Neal but still very entertaining. After that we continued along the coast road down to Hayle Causeway to go separate ways. 3 falls in almost 60 miles, is that a record for the Wheelers? [Jon Butt 14/3/05] Club Ride Sunday 6th MarchTonkin Feeling Frisky Still no report from last week. Lazy bastards. Time is short. Sunny, but chilly. Roads a bit frosty in places. 17 riders and 2 old gits. Marazion, St Erth, Lelant. Richard G. punctured. Bit of sunbathing. Halsetown. Riders started peeling off from here - Mother's Day. Hills, Zennor, more hills. Mike off the front! Had to give him a severe talking to. Cafe at Geevor Mine. No toast for Rhys. St Just. Mike takes alternative route. Land's End, Treen. Meet up with Mike again. Mousehole, Penzance, Long Rock. 2 old gits get in some extra miles to Hayle. Good ride. [9/3/05] Club Ride Sunday 20th FebruaryHail and Sunshine We did our best to leave Rhys behind at the start and managed to hang on to the 'Burger Boys' this week, but the 20 plus riders were soon depleted as the 'Wimpy Weaklings' headed for home when faced with a hail storm between Long Rock and Marazion! Luckily it soon stopped and the rest of the ride was blessed with sunshine and nothing worse than a cold breeze. From Praa Sands we hit the lanes, through Germoe, Godolphin, Nancegollan, Releath, and Four Lanes. Down the narrow lane towards Stithian Reservoir, Neil - freshly kitted out with his new clipless pedals - executed a two-way skid with double twist to avoid an approaching car, but miraculously managed to stay upright. Shortly afterwards he was not so sucessful when we stopped for a discussion about route choice. Paul's laughter at this misfortune was short-lived - he joined him on the tarmac! Fortunately, only pride was damaged, so we were able to continue through Perranwell and the Devoran Valley to the cafe at Bissoe. Although numbers had dwindled to nine by this time, we were given a real boost when even Stuart stopped for refreshments today. As a result of some determined lobbying and a lot of wimpering, we avoided Portreath hill on the way back through Chacewater, Illogan, Tehidy, tail-gating a tractor and trailer all the way down the North Cliffs, and finishing by the usual route through Hayle, St Erth and Marazion. Five of us made the final dipersal. [21/2/05] Club Ride Sunday 13th FebruaryHard Men or Breakfast Club? Twenty plus again, despite gale force winds - the ride from Porthleven to Long Rock took me 10 minutes longer than usual! Luckily I saw the tail-enders disappearing towards Penzance. Unbelievably, three so-called road racers immediately headed for breakfast at MacDonald's - or so rumour has it. An explanation is required by the club committee, names might have to be named. The rest of us battled through Mousehole, where Bob was the first to turn for home, and westwards, wrestling with the elements. John Butt punctured just before Treen, an John Payne was able to demonstrate the efficiency of his formidable mini-pump. At Trevescan we were hit by an almighty squall - sleet, rain, gusting wind. After cowering in the shelter of a hedge for a few minutes and resisting the temptations of the nearby cafe, off we went again. Heading northwards towards St Just, we hit the worst of the wind and started losing more riders. Although heartfelt, Rhys's expletives had no effect, but made him feel better. The cafe at Geevor was a welcome relief, but one had to pedal down the steep approach hill to make progress against the wind. After the break we split into two bunches, one heading inland to try to avoid the wind, and the other taking the traditional coastal route through Zennor and hoping that it would come around behind us. It did eventually blow us up to Eagle's Nest, down to Lelant, back through St Erth, and deliver us to Marazion for the final split. [14/2/05] Club Ride Sunday 6th FebruaryBissoe Again Time pressing - brief report - contributions welcome. Difficult to believe the rumour that Chris Opie preferred a 3 hour turbo session to a PZW club run! Twenty plus other riders thought otherwise. Outward route: Goldsithney, Millpool, Godolphin, Nancegollan, Releath, Black Rock, Penmarth, Burncoose, Pulla Cross, Frogpool and Bissoe. A record 13 riders enjoyed refreshments. Return route: Chacewater, Blackwater, Portreath, hill climb, team time trial, Hayle, St Erth, Marazion - still loads of riders for a change. Really enjoyable ride. [14/2/05] Club Ride Sunday 30th JanuaryWhat Happened to the Training Bikes? Big turn-out again - stopped counting at 21. Most seemed to come on the long ride. Did anyone go on the short ride? Lots of expensive race machines being given some exercise! Was it the dry roads or the scent of competition in the air? Rumour had it that the Lizard cafe was open from 11.00am, and we needed a change anyway. Steady pace through Goldsithney, Millpool, Bal West, Godolphin, Sithney, Trannack and Wendron. Then a taste of Paris-Roubaix to rough up the race bikes a bit. Good view of a fox here. Then more Paris-Roubaix before emerging at Pemboa near Flambard's. Next was Gweek. At this point it seems that the 'Capitain' was becoming the object of some piss-taking by some of the less disciplined elements in the peloton, so a quiet plan of retribution was hatched, and the trouble-makers were 'conned' into making the steep climb up to Mawgan, instead of the more leisurely route enjoyed by the rest of us. At Garras, a group turned for home, leaving about 13 of us to do some brisk through-and-off over Goonhilly Downs, culminating in a sprint at Kuggar. Straight on, for a change, at Ruan Minor - just to capture an extra climb and a bit more distance. Chris Opie was disqualified from the sprint at the Lizard - illegal and unsporting use of traffic lights. Cafe just opening as we arrived. Rhys broke all existing records by ordering 4 rounds of toast - and he ate it all himself! Back on the road, gentle through-and-off all the way from the Lizard to Helston. Small group turned for Penzance here. Rest of us headed north - Coverack Bridges, Releath (some tired legs now) and Black Rock. Redruth mob split here. Remnants descended to Praze, then Carnhell Green, Connor Downs, Hayle and St Erth, with riders peeling off for home one-by-one, until there were only two of us left at Marazion. What a great ride. [31/1/05] Club Ride Sunday 23rd JanuarySun Glorious Sun Blue sky and sunshine - almost forgotten what it's like. Too many riders to count. About 19 started the long ride. Not sure how many did the short ride. Comebacks by Sam and Ben. Bissoe was the destination. Up the main road to Ashton, dive down into Porthleven, back lanes to Helston, then Wendron, Carnkie and Stithians. New lane to Ponsanooth - Stuart determined to find some mud and cow dung - then Perran-ar-worthal. Up Carnon Valley to Bissoe. Biker's cafe in full swing. Camel Valley boys turned up. Some missed team photo - dallying in the loos too long. Meander through Chacewater and Blackwater, Can't miss Portreath hill. Some through-and-off and jousting down the North Cliffs. John Butt misjudges sprint at Hayle. Sam and Ben still impressively hanging on at St Erth and Marazion for final split. [24/1/05] Alternative Club Ride Sunday 16th JanuaryCamels Invade Penwith Alan led the shorter ride of some 32 miles from Longrock out through Gulval, Sancreed, St. Just, Pendeen, Zennor, Lelant and back to Long Rock via St.Erth. I joined my wife, Cara on this ride as she has only just returned to cycling after surgery on both her feet and full knee surgery. Consequently she suffered, but knowing Cara as I do, that will only push her and once again later this season she will be back on the Time Trial Circuit after a couple of years absence. That's if her feet cope as the surgery was not the success we hoped. The PZW were great not seeming to get too downhearted easing off for her on the hills. 7 riders in total (and sorry I cannot remember all of their names) but Caroline Chesterfield also rode strongly at the front after returning recently from a 4 week cycle tour in New Zealand. No coffee stop but the company was appreciated by us "outsiders" (Camels) and hopefully, we'll see you all again soon. The shorter ride is a great idea for the new and returning cyclists. Don't forget the Camel 30 mile Sporting Course starting and finishing from The Lizard village on Easter Sunday morning....27th March 2005. [18/1/05] Club Ride Sunday 16th JanuaryGo West Young Man Promising weather forecast, massive turnout - 21 riders, Rhys's race bike unleashed, Bob hung-over from his birthday party, and club ride 'capitain' Lloyd still laid low with a back injury - garden shed related, I think. Sixteen riders embarked on the longer ride and, despite Terry's absence, a small group materialised for the shorter ride (any news of this would be appreciated). Democracy and availability of refreshments dictated an expedition to the wild west of Penwith - nice hill up to Ludgvan (thanks Phil), Chysauster, New Mill, Heamor, various ramblings towards St Just, various ramblings away from St Just, then down to the cafe at Pendeen. Despite the usual 'refuseniks', a respectable number of 'sinners' actually stopped. Bob almost got deprived of the last chocolate flapjack and Rhys consumed an obscene amount of toast. Back on the road, after one or two had headed directly home, the breaks were going away on the Zennor road, John had scented Sunday lunch at his Mum's, and Mike started to feel the pace. A long swoop down into St Ives, then Lelant, with a surprising number opting for the extra distance of returning to Marazion via St Erth. At this point Phil scrounged all Rhys's spare food, then we had to stop at the Goldsithney shop so Richard and Chris could stuff their faces. Final dispersal at Praze - did you rise to the challenge of Black Hill, or did you wimp out? [17/1/05] Club Ride Sunday 9th JanuaryShorter Ride Kicks Off on Schedule Received email from Steve Cox (for those of you who don't know Steve, he's the one who cycles all the way from Falmouth before he starts the club ride!) explaining recent absence from club rides - he's got gout! Best wishes for a quick recovery from all of us Steve, but don't forget the doctor's note. Dire weather forecast, but didn't deter 20 riders. Dry, mild, stiff breeze at Long Rock. At last, the additional shorter ride materialised, thanks to Terry Mappin. Six riders opted for this - how did it go lads? Sixteen of us set out on the longer ride. Welcome to newcomer John Trott of Camel Valley. Intended to head for the Lizard, but temptation of cafe at Bissoe was too strong - Goldsithney, Godolphin, Sithney, Wendron, Porkellis, Carnkie, Stithians, Perranwell, then the cafe at Bissoe. Only three riders peeled off early and everyone else stopped for refreshments. Either the gods must have smiled on us or the Cyclelogic anti-cafe police are mellowing as they approach middle age. What's more, Stuart bought me a coffee. We returned via Chacewater, Blackwater, Porthreath (and the hill!), before the weather broke - the rain started and the wind picked up as we neared Hell's Mouth. Gwithian saw the first split, with one group heading towards Camborne. The rest of us dispersed at Hayle and Marazion. I had to slog back to Porthleven in the rain with Steve Lampier, trying to maintain a sensible conversation and pretending not to be knackered. [10/1/05] Club Ride Sunday 2nd JanuaryCoffee Drought Strikes Again Only time for a brief report. Showery and chilly at times. Twelve riders. Wheelers outnumbered by triathletes! Lots of hill dodging. Newmills, Gurnard's Head, Pendeen (too soon for cafe), St Just (cafe shut), St Buryan, Mousehole, Penzance (cafe full!), Gulval, Crowlas, St Erth, Hayle, Godrevy (cafe closed!), dispersal. Andy sneaked home after the airport, but was spotted by Dave Henderson lurking in the Penzance area, Stuart disappeared as soon as it looked as though he might have to buy me a coffee, Phil's starting to look fit, good to see that Mel has recovered from her fracture injury on a previous ride, Nathan suspected of extra training after dispersal, Bob's put in a big mileage over Xmas, Ben looking good after outstanding Etape exploits back in the summer, Lloyd rumoured to be on drunken spree in Dublin, and John AWOL again. [4/1/05] |