Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Sat Jul 4th 2009

Saturday afternoon ride 3*	3*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This ride will cover 55-65km and may be hilly, fast, challenging, or a combination of all three! It will also include a tea stop during or at the end of the ride.
Riders: Chris Walters Dean Douglas Derek Boutle Des Higgs Ginny Henderson Nick Dunton Olly Swadling Steven Rogers Tony Smith Riders = 9 Report:
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Sun Jul 5th 2009

Easy to Uffington (*)	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: An easy-paced ride across the Vale to Uffington for tea and cakes at the village hall, by way of Charney Bassett, Gainfield, Hatford and Fernham, back via Baulking and Goosey. ~20-mile round trip. Ride with us or meet us there at 3:30pm, back before 5pm.
Riders: Colin Brown John Talbot Lorna Swanton Marion Jones Richard Preece Steve Swanton Riders = 6 Report: A lovely afternoon saw 6 of us heading out to Uffington. Welcome to Colin and it was good to see Marion out too. We travelled at a relaxed pace into a slight headwind and enjoyed a brief stop at Hatford to look at the church (although being locked we couldn't go in). Surprisingly, despite cycling through Uffington many times, neither Colin nor John knew of the teas, which were something of a revelation. Trade was booming (they even had to put up an extra table for us) and the cakes were delicious as usual. Fortified by cake and now with a tailwind, we fairly sailed back to Grove with Lorna leading the way. Back just before 5 after an enjoyable afternoon and between 20 and 23 miles depending on whose computer you believed... Steve
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Tue Jul 7th 2009

10-mile Club (*)

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: An easy-paced social ride of 10-mile-or-so at 10mph. Tonight we will be heading to Betterton - this will involve a steady but gentle climb through Wantage and following Regional cycle route 44 through Lockinge with a 1/2-mile stretch of off-raod track. From Betterton, there's a great long descent to Ardington, then a second climb up to the Lain's Barn X-roads and then a second great descent into the vale before returning to Grove. About 10 miles.
Riders: Riders = 0 Report: Our first washout of the season and it would be the day we had invited Suzanne Kelsey from What's on in Wantage to ride with us... Torrential rain between 6 and 7 kept everyone (very sensibly) at home... Steve S
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Tue Jul 7th 2009

Tuesday Evening Rides

Leader: Colin Appleton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: We will have two rides leaders for 2* and 3* options. Colin's leisurely ride will have some steady climbs, heading to the Letcombes via Denchworth, A417 and Childrey, returning via Wantage. Maurice's more sporty (3*) ride will be a flat 20-miler heading to Southmoor by way of a zig-zag route through the Hanneys and Lyford, on to Hinton Waldrist, Pusey and Stanford-in-the-Vale. Back via Park Lane, Asti stud and Denchworth.
Riders: David Ryan Maurice Bawden Riders = 2 Report: First washout of the summer, with torrential rain hitting Grove just before 6pm. Full marks to Maurice and David who cycled in from Southmoor and Stanford only to run into the storm as they neared the start. Mike, Bob and Clive drove over from Didcot and Lambourn having left home in sunshine. 5 of us huddled under the shelter of the porch to OMH looking at the rain and puddles for a while before heading our separate ways home. Steve S.
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Sat Jul 11th 2009

Extra Ride - New Forest tour - 2/3 on-road 80km	2*

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Cadnam, New Forest
Description: A special "away" ride which will be run at a 2/3 pace (18-20km/h, 12-13mph) , meeting at Cadnam. The route (http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=8227) covers 80km of the nicest lanes in the New Forest, with a lunch stop along the way. Please contact Chris in advance if you plan to join the ride - it will not be run without support.
Riders: Chris Walters David Bridge Dean Douglas Des Higgs John Talbot Riders = 5 Report: The weather forecast was pretty good right up until the morning of the ride... we set off in a drizzle, and it continued to drizzle most of the way. Out through Ashurst, Beaulieu (where we had a brief stop) and Brockenhurst, we continued on along the ornamental drives at Rhinefield and Bolderwood, before dropping into Linwood for a very speedily served lunch at the Red Shoot Inn at Linwood - complete with its own little microbrewery. Suitably refreshed, we continued on through Frogham and Hyde, chickened out of the 25% descent and took the long way around as it was still raining, and headed up Deadmans Hill up to Nomansland. It sounds bleak, and it was with the drizzle coming down! Just outside Newbridge and almost within sight of the finish, Des succumbed to the puncture fairy, and had lot of grey brake slurry all over him to show for it. After a brief dry down, we had a quick coffee at the Sir John Barleycorn pub to wind down. A good days riding, with some nice (not too steep!) hills and some fantastic descents!
Distance: 81.64 km (50.73 mi)	Ride Details: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/8624461
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Sat Jul 11th 2009

CTC Oxfordshire BBQ

Leader: Mavis Rose	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Lambourn
Description: At Mavis and Lou's in Lambourn. Tickets from Steve S, or contact Mavis directly:
Riders: Carol Altmann David Bridge Des Higgs Glen Savegar Helen Beane Henk Altmann (deceased) James Dawton Jan McCabe Julian Gough Kevin Fairs Lorna Swanton Lou Rose Mavis Rose Neil Warner Pat Hurt Richard Divall Steve Swanton Sue King Tom Millar Riders = 19 Report: Despite the early drizzle and later rain, Pat and Neil did us proud on the barbecues. Many thanks to them, Mavis, Sue and the other cooks who provided such excellent fare. Despite the poor weather, it was a convivial evening. Some of us sheltered under Mavis's large sun shades, while others retired indoors to eat. A good number had cycled over, 3 camped and others took advantage of Rose Towers B&B.
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Tue Jul 14th 2009

10-mile Club (*)

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Something revolutionary for Bastille Day... An easy-paced social ride of 10-mile-or-so at 10mph. Following last week's washout, we'll try again for Lockinge, Ardington and Betterton. Some steady climbing, a 1/2 mile stretch of track along Regional cycle route 44 and two great descents to enjoy.
Riders: Amelia Preece Lorna Swanton Richard Preece Sara Smith Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 6 Report: Welcome to Sara, on her first ride, and Steve B on his first Tuesday. It was a lovely evening when we set off, despite the showery forecast. Millie was on her new bike tonight. As it was a little heavier and needed getting used to, she and Richard rode with us as far as the track to Lockinge and then decided to do their own ride. The remaining quartet continued as planned to Betterton and after a brief rest to take in the view, sped down the hill to Ardington. As the evening was young and we'd all enjoyed it, we decided to do it again! It was only as we approached Betterton again that we could see the big grey clouds looming to the south and west. Would we get back to Grove in time to avoid the storm? By the time we reached the bottom of Grove Park lane it was getting very dark; as we turned onto the A338 we could feel the first spots of rain and by the time we reached Oxford lane it was hard and cold. We arrived back at the green at the same time as Gareth's 2* group. We split our separate ways in School Lane to dash home. But we'd all enjoyed it. Steve S
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Tue Jul 14th 2009

Tuesday Evening Rides

Leader: Gareth Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: We will have two rides leaders for 2* and 3* options.
Riders: Andrew Robertson Bryan Charleston Chris Walters Colin Appleton David Ryan Des Higgs Gareth Smith Gordon Bissell Janet Charleston Jo Bindloss-Gibb John Talbot Maurice Bawden Paul Ryan Paul Sanders Peter Busby Philip Thornton-Evison Sorrel Williams Susan Holdroyd Val Smith Riders = 19 Report: 3* ride route and details here: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/8789088. Thanks to Gareth for leading for the first time on the 2* ride this evening. The group took a twisty route through all the small lanes by way of Lyford, Winter lane, back to Charney Bassett out to Gainfield and returning via Stanford, Park Lane and Asti Stud (the last bit in the rain). The 3* route was drempt up at short notice and led by Pete B. We went out past Lane's Barn and through Ardington, Ginge and down the hill to one of the Hendred's. After a regroup at The Hare we set off for Milton Trading Estate. The new lights at the A30 rounderbout broke up the group but we all then set off for Sutton Courtney. The stiff head wind was now giving some help but on the fast Steventon to Hanney section the rain was coming in so at Hanney decided to head down the main road but the heavens opened and with the wind back into our faces this last section was extremely hard. This was one of the few Tuesday rides that we got wet.
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Sat Jul 18th 2009

Offroad from Lambourn - 2/3	2*

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: Lambourn car park - SU 325 788
Description: Circular offroad ride along the Ridgeway, via Sheepdrove, Uffington Hill fort and Upper Lambourn (refreshement stop at the Malt Shovel). Route is here: http://www.bikehike.co.uk/mapview.php?id=10578 Please contact Chris by 20:00 on Thursday 16th July if you plan to join the ride - it will not be run without support. Should take us 3 hours or so. A few strenuous but short climbs. Mountain bikes or very rugged hybrids required.
Riders: Chris Walters Frank Schroer Geoff Neill Mila Yearley Olly Swadling Riders = 5 Report: We counted ourselves lucky to only see a few spots of rain The climb out of Lambourn up to Sheepdrove was a bit of a rude awakening, but soon we were on tracks rather than tarmac. We continued upwards to the Ridgeway and then went due west, into the wind, past the mast at Segsbury and on to Uffington Hill Fort. After admiring the view and a quick circuit of the fort we dropped down (great downhill!) and then turned off for Upper Lambourn, where a sustaining drink at the Malt Shovel helped to restore energy. The ride route is here: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/9113528. A very enjoyable afternoon - thank you one and all for your company!
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Sun Jul 19th 2009

Regular Wantage Ride	2*

Leader: Glen Savegar	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: An all day 2/3 ride covering 80-100km. This months planned ride will head north to Woodstock,taking in Stanton Harcourt and Church Hanborough. Lunch stop most likely close to Woodstock,but still to be decided. Return journey by way of Eynsham,Farmoor,Wootton,(with optional short loop to Boars Hill),Cothill,(tea stop at Millets farm),and minor roads back to Wantage.
Riders: Glen Savegar Steve Swanton Riders = 2 Report: Well the weather forecast promised heavy showers and it certainly didn't disappoint. Hard to believe at 9.15am sat beside King Alfreds statue with the sun shining brightly. The gentleman approaching from Mill street on the hybrid looked like a possible addition to the group,but swiftly headed into the newsagents and re-appeared with the Sunday Telegraph tucked under his arm,then cycled off home! It was good to see Steve,and the two of us set off on a "abridged" version of my original planned route,pushed along by the strong south westerly breeze. Steve needed to be back early for a lunch appointment,so we decided to ride for a set period of time and then return,with Eynsham seeming like a sensible point to begin the homeward leg. Stopping for a short break beside the pond at Cumnor village,we continued our journey now donning waterproofs as the promised showers drifted our way. Our return followed the national cycle network as far as Appleton,before heading south to Fyfield,and then home via Lyford and Denchworth,accompanied by a very impressive horizontal rain storm!... A very enjoyable(if a little soggy !)mornings cycling. Thanks Steve for your excellent company! Glen S
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Tue Jul 21st 2009

Tuesday Evening Ride / Fast and Furious

Leader: Edith Hipwell	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: We will aim to have two rides leaders for 2* and 3* options.
Riders: Angela Sanders Edith Hipwell Frank Schroer Maurice Bawden Michael Tayler Sorrel Williams Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Riders = 9 Report: Given the damp conditions, it was perhaps not surprising that only 9 riders were up for a ride this evening. Nevertheless it was good to get out and for the 2* group turned into a bit of an adventure... They probably won't ask me back to lead a 2* ride again.... Given the unsettled conditions, we decided to keep the ride simple and fairly close to Grove. So we headed out to Charney Bassett, made a circuit of the village and continued on to Lyford. The weather was ok and everyone was doing fine, so we continued on to West Hanney. Here we made the decision to add a few miles by cycling on to East Hanney and back. Before the crossroads with the A338 we turned north and continued through a very picturesque part of the village to the mill at the north end. Surprisingly perhaps this was even new to Edith! Here the road turns into a track, which I know from previous off-road rides can get sticky. I hadn't intended to continue. However, there was a definite vibe to give it a go, so we agreed to proceed cautiously and see how it went. Fine for the first few hundred yards, but gradually the top surface became stickier and slippier. I suddenly realised that my tyres and mudguards were caking up with mud and reaching a large muddy depression called a halt. Edith had already caked up and had to stop at the back of the group. Woops! (Michael and Susan had fared better without mudguards). I ventured on on foot to see whether it was worth pushing on to the end of the track, but the surface remained sticky and the distance was too far, so about we turned and pushed or rode back to the mill. Fortunately everyone took it in very good humour. After some rapid degunging, we eventually got back on the road and headed back to West Hanney and home. We passed Maurice heading home on the way back to Denchworth. Here Steve B realised that the road was feeling a bit bumpy - due to two rather flat tyres. A quick inflate helped as far as the railway bridge but by then it was clear that it was mend or walk, so Steve decided to walk while the rest of us carried on got back to Grove. With my apologies to all for the necessary bike cleaning, we headed our several ways after what had been a surprisingly fun evening. Steve S
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Tue Jul 21st 2009

10-mile Club (*)

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: An easy-paced social ride of 10-mile or so at 10mph. A return trip to Childrey this evening, heading out via Denchworth and Goosey returning via West Challow and Denchworth. Two sections on the A338 with right turns. We'll take the bridleway out of Childrey towards East Challow and descend Silver Lane.
Riders: Riders = 0 Report: Due to the drizzly conditions there was no separate 10-mile club ride this evening. We joined up with the "leisurely" 2* group instead.
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Sat Jul 25th 2009

Saturday afternoon ride 2*	2*

Leader: David Bridge	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Our newly titled 2* ride, covering 45-55km including a tea stop. Covering a fair amount of distance, the pace will be more relaxed with plenty of time for chatting on the way. The ride will travel through; Denchworth, Standford in the Vale, Hatford, Sandy Lane (a brief trip on the A420)Thrupp, Radcot Bridge, Bampton, Aston Pottery for tea, Tadpole Bridge, Buckland, Gainfield, Charney Bassett and Grove.
Riders: David Bridge Geoff Neill John Talbot Neil Mowforth Phil Wray Richard Divall Steve Swanton Riders = 7 Report: Report: Ride 25th July 2009 Route: Denchworth, Standford in the Vale, Hatford, Sandy Lane (a brief trip on the A420), Thrupp, Radcot Bridge, Grafton, Langford, Calcroft Lane, Clanfield, Bampton, Aston Pottery for tea, Tadpole Bridge, Buckland, Gainfield, Charney Bassett and Grove This was the advertised route extended by about 6miles by a loop via Grafton and Langford with agreement of the group. The tea stop was fine and so was the weather. A good afternoon's ride. Back about 17:00 hrs Distance 36miles
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Tue Jul 28th 2009

10-mile Club (*)

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: An easy-paced social ride of 10 miles or so at 10mph. Newcomers very welcome. Garford. A flat route tonight into the Vale heading to Lyford and on to Garford returning via West Hanney and Denchworth - about 14 miles.
Riders: John Hogston Steve Swanton Vanessa Simonite Riders = 3 Report:
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Tue Jul 28th 2009

Tuesday Evening Rides

Leader: Edith Hipwell	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: We will aim to have two rides leaders for 2* and 3* options.
Riders: Andrew Robertson Angela Sanders Baz Munday Brian Hipwell Colin Appleton David Ryan Des Higgs Edith Hipwell Frank Schroer Jo Bindloss-Gibb Maurice Bawden Olly Swadling Peter Busby Philip Thornton-Evison Steve Boreham Steve Joyce Riders = 16 Report: Report for the 3* ride. Lead by Pete B was iitially clased a Fast and Furious but we all know that I am not up to that. We started with 11 but imeadiatly the lead group was informed that Jo had a puncture and that she and Philip were turning back. For this reason we didn't wait. The route was flat out to Denchworth,Charney Bassett, towards Hatford where Angela and Andrew took over the point from Peter and Frank. Turning right towards Pusey we had a good tail wind which aided us through Hilton Waldrist and Longworth. Andrew was just starting to wind it up even more but was slowed down by Olly falling behind. It transpired that he was just playing with us. In Fyfield we took the track parallel to the A420 and came out in Tubney. Various people took the point to keep a decent pace which was managed by all until Garford where the leader, who was doing so well leading from the rear, got dropped due to the strong head wind. Just before Lyford we caught up with the 10 miler's have a break, a chat and a mars bar. This was ~20 miles covered in just under 16 mph average so a fast pace. Half the group went off on their way home to leave 4 returning via Denchworth. The head wind spoilt the figures in the end with an average of 15.2 over the 24.5 miles. Thanks to all who took the point to allow others to have a bit of a rest. 2*ride led by Edith did a quick loop.out through Charney Bassett stanford in the vale and back to grovelovely ride.
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Ride Filter

Start Locations: WMP
Wantage Market Place; OMH
Old Mill Hall, Grove

Categories: 1* - Suitable for irregular, social, beginner or family riders, pace will match the slower riders. Not hilly or long. Expect rides up to 3 hours. Gentle exercise.; 2* - Suitable for regular riders who prefer to cover some distance but at a more relaxed pace. Likely to be half-day rides. Solid exercise.; 3* - Suitable for experienced riders, may be hilly, long, quick, or any combination! Likely to be half or full-day rides. Challenging exercise.; 4* - Suitable for athletic riders who can ride safely above the 3* standard. Quick rides for the fit.; More Information

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