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Past Rides

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Sat Jul 2nd 2011
Saturday afternoon ride from Grove 3*
Leader:
John Talbot
Start Time:
1:00 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
60-70km (38 - 45 miles) ride, with a tea stop, riding pace of 20-22km/h (13-14mph). Likely to visit distant destinations. Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing likely.

I've got two choices for this ride.

1) A fairly flat summer afternoon jaunt in the Vale of White Horse. As it's so flat we'll up the miles a bit and aim for a bit over 50 miles (80km). Tea-stop at Aston Pottery. Route One

2) Something a bit different going eastwards via Abingdon and over Sandford Lock to Garsington and through the Baldons. This one is a bit hillier and 48 miles (77km). Tea stop at Notcutts Garden Centre near Clifton Hampden. Route Two

Which do you prefer? There's only one way to find out.... Doodle Poll! Choose from the link below.

http://www.doodle.com/sbx6ccnepg92fssv
Riders:
Adrian West
Andy Newell
David Smith
James Wigmore
John Talbot
Nick Dunton
Ursula Hallam
Riders = 7
Report:
The overwhelming winner was the route to Garsington so that's the way we went.

The start was slightly delayed as I arrived late after a minor mechanical issue cycling to Grove. Thanks for waiting for me!

After the boring bit to Steventon we headed through Drayton and Sutton Courtenay and the first time over the Thames at Sutton Bridge. And second time at Abingdon. We kept a good steady pace up throughout.

After Abingdon town centre and Radley we crossed the Thames again at Sandford Lock. It was tempting to join the hoardes in the pub for a drink!

Oxford United had their open day today but Grenoble Road was quiet. This is a nice wide, well surfaced road for pretending to be taking part in the TdF sweeping around the roundabouts!

My pre-arranged flypast by the Red Arrows wowed everyone as we headed along the B480 towards Garsington.

The first and steepest hill of the day was up into Garsington and then along the ridge towards Wheatley. Really pleasant undulating lanes through Cuddesdon, Denton and the Baldons.

A short stretch of the A4074 and a rather average teastop at Notcutts, a limited, tired looking and expensive cake selection.

Some excitement after the break cycling into Clifton Hampden when several yelps came from behind in the peloton. A wasp had flown into Andy's shirt and as he frantically tried to swat it, control his bike and remove his shirt it stung him twice and flew off! Ouch!

We crossed the Thames for the 4th and final time at Clifton Hampden and headed through Long Wittenham and Appleford and through Sutton Courtenay again. We all voted to do the extra loop after Featherbed Lane through Ginge and Lockinge. This took us over 50 miles for the afternoon as we went down past Lain's Barn.

A great 3* afternoon ride, perfect weather, good group, good pace, half century. Excellent.

Who said it always rains when I lead?!
Distance:
83.40 km (51.82 mi)
Ride Details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/96296196
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Sun Jul 3rd 2011
Sunday afternoon ride from Grove 1*
Leader:
David Smith
Start Time:
2:00 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
A gentle tour around the local lanes with refreshments at the church in Uffington.
The route is Denchworth, Gainfield, Shellingford and Fernham and back via Baulking, Goosey & Denchworth to Grove. Approximately 21 miles in total.
Riders:
Brian Hipwell
David Smith
Edith Hipwell
John Vandore
Lorna Swanton
Richard Preece
Steve Swanton
Ursula Hallam
Riders = 8
Report:
A lovely warm afternoon ride with a strong group. Plans were changed slightly when Brian & Edith said they were leaving us at Uffington to head to Woolstone for tea and cakes at the open garden event in aid of the church. The group decided that we would go with Edith & Brian as well, this turned out to be a good decision as the church in Uffington were not doing teas this Sunday and instead a sign pointed us to Woolstone.

At Woolstone we were greeted by a string quartet and a vast array of home made cakes. After refreshment some of the group had a look around several of the open gardens while the rest of us relaxed in the sun.
Distance:
37.66 km (23.40 mi)
Ride Details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/96698181
Proposed Route: http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=265835"
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Tue Jul 5th 2011
Tuesday Evening 3* Ride 3*
Leader:
John Talbot
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Long, hilly, quick - or any combination! - 35-45km

Time for some hills. Out through Wantage to Letcombe Regis and up Court Hill. Along to the monument and up and over Woolley to Brightwalton. Then Catmore, West Ilsley, Farnborough before the descent down Chain Hill back to Wantage.
Riders:
Riders = 0
Report:
Shouldn't have mentioned the R word on my last report....

With the rain lashing down and only a couple of riders willing to attempt the 3* this evening we decided to join forces with the 2* ride tonight.
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/506771"
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Tue Jul 5th 2011
Tuesday Evening 2* Ride 2*
Leader:
Edith Hipwell
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Enjoy an easy-paced ride around the local lanes. 25 - 40km. May be hills on some weeks

The ride will be slightly harder tonight to allow those that want to try a 3* ride to build up to it.
Riders:
Adrian West
Andy Belcher
Andy Cowan
Brian Hipwell
Des Higgs
Edith Hipwell
John Talbot
Paul Jarvis
Paul Macintosh
Paula Tansley
Richard Preece
Riders = 11
Report:
A wet evening tonight 2*/3* joined for a ride this evening a quick dash around the vale lead by Adrian.
Distance:
27.04 km (16.80 mi)
Ride Details:
http://ridewithgps.com/trips/303114
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Tue Jul 5th 2011
10 Mile Club 1* 1*
Leader:
Steve Swanton
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
This will be our longest ride of the season and is designed to be a slightly harder ride for those who would like to try an easier 2* ride next week.

We will head north via Charney Bassett to Southmoor, returning via Lyford, a distance of about 16 miles.

These rides are designed to be sociable and leisurely at a riding pace of about 10 miles per hour, suitable for newcomers to cycling, irregular cyclists and families and for those who just fancy a gentle ride . We'll stop to admire the scenery and anything that takes our eye, and no-one will be left behind. All are welcome although U-13s should be accompanied by a responsible adult .
Riders:
John Stamp
Lorna Swanton
Luke Smith
Steve Burr
Steve Swanton
Val Smith
Riders = 6
Report:
Despite the damp conditions there were 6 of us game enough for this evenings ride, including newcomer Steve Burr.

And as we set off towards Denchworth in the rain it was really quite miserable. At Denchworth we decided we were all wet and that we might as well continue. As we reached Charney the rain eased and while resting outside the Chequers it briefly stopped. After an indecisive show of hands to decide whether to continue on to Southmoor or cut the ride short and return via Lyford, we decided to compromise and take the first right after Charney past Sheephouse Farm. Ominously the rain returned but shortly after it finally stopped for good. Phew.

From then on it turned into a enjoyably mellow evening ride. The air was fresh and the roadside verges were filled with flowers. With conditions improving we continued to West Hanney, returning by road via Denchworth.

Thanks to all for your company on an enjoyable ride
Distance:
19.31 km (12.00 mi)
 
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Sun Jul 10th 2011
Cotswolds ride 3*
Leader:
Des Higgs
Start Time:
9:30 am
Start Location:
Guildenford car park, Burford
Description:
A Cotswold magical mystery tour, taking lunch at Broadway Tower, by way of Bourton on the Water and Snowshill. Returning to Burford via Bibury, where a nice tea shop awaits.

This will be a hilly 80-100km ride, variable on the day to suit the group, but is still a 3* ride.

Please let Des know if you're planning to come.
Riders:
Chris Walters
Derek Boutle
Des Higgs
Frank Schroer
Iain Kent
Ian Lambourne
John Talbot
John Tranter
Nick Dunton
Paul Jarvis
Steve Swanton
Riders = 11
Report:
A very enjoyable brisk ride, weather excellent, lavender in full bloom (memories of grannies linen cupboard). Unable to see mountains in Wales from Broadway Tower Hill as it was a little to misty.

On the return journey it was decided to take a comfort and icecream stop in Northleach.
Good ride, weather and, above all, company. Special thanks to Derek (if it was not for him we could still be there now).

Total of 98k (sorry 2k short).

Distance:
99.14 km (61.60 mi)
Ride Details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/98172930
Snowshill Lavender
Snowshill Lavender
Our Intrepid Leader(s)
Our Intrepid Leader(s)
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Tue Jul 12th 2011
Tuesday Evening 3* Ride 3*
Leader:
Chris Walters
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
The ride will be slightly easier tonight to help riders from the 2* group that want to try a 3* ride.

We're going to head out via Lains Barn and Ardington to Steventon, across Cow Common and back either straight down the A338 if we're pooped, or a slightly longer version through Hanney and Denchworth. A few hills (nothing too bad though) to start, then flat, and the longest it will be is 22 miles.
Riders:
Andrew Johnson
Chris Walters
David Smith
Des Higgs
Jenny Williamson
Phil Stubbings
Philip Thornton-Evison
Tim Judkins
Ursula Hallam
Riders = 9
Report:
It was a bit of a disappointment that we had no upgraders from 2*, so we took the opportunity for a quicker ride instead. Due to the resurfacing of Lains Barn, Plan B was enacted and we went on a circuit via Fyfield, Hinton Waldrist, Pusey and Charney Bassett. It was a bit of a struggle outbound due to the headwind, and we had a much better return leg with warmed-up muscles and a slight tailwind.

Although the pace was pretty good, the group stayed together well, and many thanks are due to the kind souls who took turns on the front to spread the work - a great team effort!

Distance:
33.67 km (20.92 mi)
Ride Details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/98757762
Proposed Route: http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=168464"
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Tue Jul 12th 2011
Tuesday Evening 2* Ride 2*
Leader:
Edith Hipwell
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Enjoy an easy-paced ride around the local lanes. 25 - 40km. May be hills on some weeks

The ride will be slightly easier tonight to help riders from the 1* group that want to try a 2* ride.
Riders:
Andy Belcher
Brian Hipwell
Edith Hipwell
Liz Buckle
Michael Tayler
Paula Tansley
Riders = 6
Report:
A quick spin around the Vale out in the direction of Denchworth , Charney Bassett Stanford in the Vale back home via Park lane . Made good time back before 8.oopm.
Distance:
26.23 km (16.30 mi)
 
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Tue Jul 12th 2011
10 Mile Club 1* 1*
Leader:
Steve Swanton
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
A hillier but pretty ride this evening heading up to Betterton and continuing on to Ginge following Sustrans route 44. There is a great descent down to West Hendred, where we'll stop briefly to look at the medieval church. After a mile stretch along the A417, we'll retun to Grove via Ardington and Wantage. 13 miles. (Slight change of plan on the way back as the Lains Barn road has just been re-gritted.)

These rides are designed to be sociable and leisurely at a riding pace of about 10 miles per hour, suitable for newcomers to cycling, irregular cyclists and families and for those who just fancy a gentle ride . We'll stop to admire the scenery and anything that takes our eye, and no-one will be left behind. All are welcome although U-13s should be accompanied by a responsible adult and U-18s require parental consent.
Riders:
John Stamp
Lorna Swanton
Lucy Heneghan
Luke Smith
Steve Swanton
Riders = 5
Report:
A cooler and breezier evening than expected. We followed some back routes through Grove and Wantage en route to the Nelson and Route 44. We saw the off-roaders ahead of us and surprisingly caught them up at West Lockinge. We cycled together for all of 50 yards before they veered off through the stables on their way up to the Ridgeway.

We climbed steadily up to Ginge and after a brief rest by "Ginge International" (as John calls it - they fly microlights from the farm) continued over the crest and down the hill into West Hendred. The wind was against us, so it was not as fast as usual.

We stopped by the church in West Hendred and had to make do with peering through the windows as the door was locked.

After a brief mechanical, we returned along the A417 which was still rather busy at 7:45, pulling off to the peace and quiet of Ardington. Then back to Grove via route 44 and Charlton. An enjoyable ride.
Distance:
20.92 km (13.00 mi)
 
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Tue Jul 12th 2011
Offroad ride 2*
Leader:
Robin Tucker
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Knobbly tyres required. About 15 miles up to the Ridgeway and back down again.
Riders:
Adam Stay
David Yearley
John Tranter
Louis Hall
Robin Tucker
Riders = 5
Report:
Dark clouds over us this time, but again the off-road ride stayed rain free.

This time we made our way to West Lockinge and up Goddards Brook. Up to the Ridgeway and East (unusually against the wind) past Scutchamer's Knob and down the steep, chalky and washboardy descent to the corner of the Harwell campus.

Then back west on the Byway and across Ginge Brook on the 'bridge of doom'. No doom here yet actually, but 3 rode it and 2 walked. Back through the Lockinges and Wantage to get back to OMH about 2025.
Distance:
27.04 km (16.80 mi)
Ride Details:
http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/a495/832c/4e1c/001d/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110712-1833.kml
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Wed Jul 13th 2011
CTC Oxfordshire Midweek Audaxes 3* and 2* 3*
Leader:
Start Time:
10:00 am
Start Location:
Witney Rugby Club, Hailey
Description:
Audax rides of 106km and 60km through the Cotswolds organised by the CTC Oxfordshire Midweek Group.
106km, starts 10:00, Entry fee £5
60km, starts 10:30, Entry fee £4.50

You can enter directly online through the Audax website where you can get further details:
106km: http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/11-718/
60km: http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/11-340/

Or contact John Bridgman on 01993 881688.
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Sat Jul 16th 2011
CTC Oxfordshire Pot Luck Supper
Leader:
Steve Swanton
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
Grove
Description:
6:30 for 7pm at Steve and Lorna's in Grove - 3 minutes from Millbrook Square and the bus stop for Oxford and Abingdon.

Come along for a sociable evening with members from all the local CTC groups; families welcome. Please bring a bottle and a dish for the pot-luck buffet - savoury, salad or sweet to cater for 4 people per person coming. Potatoes and bread will be provided. There will also be a quiz and raffle in aid of Whizz-kidz.

Please RSVP to Steve and Lorna by Thursday 14 July if you plan to come. Tel 01235 764257.
Riders:
Andy Cowan
Brian Hipwell
Carol Altmann
Chloe Tucker
David Bridge
Des Higgs
Edith Hipwell
Ginny Henderson
James Dawton
John Bridgman
Kerry Tucker
Liz Buckle
Lorna Swanton
Lou Rose
Matthew Quartermain
Mavis Rose
Michael Tayler
Peter Hallowell
Robin Tucker
Ros Hallowell
Stephen Quartermain
Steve Swanton
Riders = 22
Report:
Who'd of thought, given the heavy rain on Saturday morning, that the sun would come out and we'd have such a lovely summer's evening? Fine it was and we were out in the garden until well after 9pm. 26 came and enjoyed a thoroughly convivial evening. Peter H again won the "Oxfordshire" quiz and Mavis won three times on the raffle - £54 raised for Whizz-Kidz. Thanks to everyone for their generosity, their good company and for bringing such excellent food.
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Sun Jul 17th 2011
Regular Wantage Ride 3*
Leader:
Robin Tucker
Start Time:
9:30 am
Start Location:
WMP
Description:
Plans below.
80-100km all-day touring ride, lunch and possibly tea stop en route, riding pace 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable.

Route plan:
Wantage (Market Place), Steventon, Drayton, Sutton Courtenay, Appleford, Long Wittenham, Brightwell, Wallingford, Crowmarsh, Hailey, Well Place, Stoke Row, Checkendon, Woodcote, B471 up hill and right before B4526, Goring, [Streatley, Up the Big Hill (!), 1st left Wood farm, A329 back to Streatley, Goring,] A4009 north back into Wallingford for lunch, S Moreton, Fulscot, Didcot, Steventon, East Hanney, Grove, Wantage

The bit in square brackets is optional - wimps can stay in Goring!

Eating plan:
Pause for elevenses at Stoke Row (bring a snack). Stop for lunch in Wallingford Park (bring a sandwich or buy something in deli). Possible tea and cake stop on the way back (by popular vote).
Riders:
Andy Cowan
Derek Boutle
Des Higgs
Phil Stubbings
Robin Tucker
Riders = 5
Report:
I'll start with the confession: we didn't go up Streatley hill.

It was a cool and showery day and by the time we got to Goring, we all felt we'd done a good half a ride. Unfortunately, we hadn't reckoned on the head wind that was on us all the way home - worst on the Hanney Road. But we made it!

For lunch, we first tried Pierreponts by the river in Goring. It does great food and cakes, though it's not at the cheap end. But we just missed the last big table, so we headed back to Wallingford and went to Bloc Brazilian - and were very happy with that.

Despite the lack of Streatley Hill there were plenty of smaller but still steep hills that we had tackled East of Wallingford. With that and the headwind, none of us felt short-changed for cycling effort!
Distance:
88.51 km (55.00 mi)
 
Comment on this ride

1

Written by : Andy Cowan

Posted on : July 18, 2011 at 10:09 AM

Just a thank you to Robin for organising everything,I found it demanding to about the limit of my capability so really enjoyed the route, but why didn` t Des mention he had joined the 400 Club ?

Tue Jul 19th 2011
Tuesday Evening 3* Ride 3*
Leader:
Chris Walters
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
The plan is to do the old "Fast & Furious" route, a flat 46km figure-of-eight that goes out through the Vale to Shrivenham - out via Uffington and back though Shellingford. It will only be as quick as the riders on the night, so don't be put off by the route name!

Expect hills the following week....
Riders:
Adrian West
Chris Walters
David Smith
Des Higgs
Iain Kent
Jenny Williamson
John Talbot
John Tranter
Paul Jarvis
Phil Stubbings
Robin Tucker
Tim Judkins
Riders = 12
Report:
I can't believe it didn't rain! After the deluges less than 90 minutes before the start of the ride, I was most surprised to see a good turnout.

Planning to do the Fast and Furious route at whatever pace we could muster, we set out on quite a still evening. Past Goosey, Adrian decided his legs weren't up to scratch so he headed back towards Wantage, and we maintained a good pace through to Uffington. Under the railway bridge south of Longcot there was a "moment" which saw our erstwhile Chairman on the ground after his front wheel got tramlined on the concrete seam under the bridge.

We were soon on our way again with more injury to pride than body (which is always a good thing!), but decided to cut out the Shrivenham loop and headed back to Grove more directly.

A really nice evening for a blast around the Vale - thanks everyone for sharing the load out!

Distance:
38.76 km (24.08 mi)
Ride Details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/100514373
Proposed Route: http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=6038"
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Tue Jul 19th 2011
Tuesday Evening 2* Ride 2*
Leader:
Edith Hipwell
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Enjoy an easy-paced ride around the local lanes. 25 - 40km. May be hills on some weeks
Riders:
Andy Belcher
Andy Cowan
Brian Hipwell
Edith Hipwell
Geoff Neill
Ginny Henderson
Michael Tayler
Philip Thornton-Evison
Ursula Hallam
Riders = 9
Report:
The evening turned out fine and dry. The 2* ride headed out to West Denchworth, Lyford , Southmoor, over the A 420 bridge, Longworth, Hinton Waldrist. Back across the A420, past Pusey House, left back to Charney Bassett, Denchworth and Grove. A good pace arriving back before 8.00 oclock. 18.4 miles.
Distance:
29.61 km (18.40 mi)
 
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Tue Jul 19th 2011
10 Mile Club 1* 1*
Leader:
Steve Swanton
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
An easier ride this evening with a gentle climb and some off-road- about 11 miles, with possibility of a 3 mile extension if it's a nice evening and the group is game.

We'll head out to Goosey and after a short stretch on the A417 to Challow station we'll climb up to Childrey. The option is an out-and-back to Sparsholt. We'll return to Grove via the bridleway and track to East Challow with lovely views across the Vale and then back to Grove via the Wilts & Berks canal towpath (or if damp, the old airfield roads).

These rides are designed to be sociable and leisurely at a riding pace of about 10 miles per hour, suitable for newcomers to cycling, irregular cyclists and families and for those who just fancy a gentle ride . We'll stop to admire the scenery and anything that takes our eye, and no-one will be left behind. All are welcome although U-13s should be accompanied by a responsible adult .
Riders:
Barbara Lambers
Lorna Swanton
Lucy Heneghan
Luke Smith
Sara Smith
Steve Burr
Steve Swanton
Riders = 7
Report:
6 of us set off from Grove, following the route as planned, meeting Barbara at the bottom of the climb up to Childrey. As it was a pleasant evening and as everyone had warmed up and were up for a longer ride, we took the optional detour to Sparsholt.

John S has been telling us about the church here on earlier rides; the church was open, so we took the opportunity to have a look. And much there is to see - 5 minutes didn't really do justice.

We retraced our steps to Childrey and carried on along the bridleway to East Challow. Here we dropped down the hill to pick up Woodhill lane, the old access road to Grove airfield. The old concerete road is badly broken up in places and where we turned off towards Stockham, a 50 yard section is missing completely. But as everyone had widish-tyres this didn't pose undue difficulties and we carried through to Crown, Cork & Seal. Riders then began to peal off as we headed back to Grove, arriving back about 8:20.

Another enjoyably mellow evening ride with good company, and covering new ground for everyone (bar me). Steve
Distance:
22.53 km (14.00 mi)
 
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Sat Jul 23rd 2011
Saturday afternoon ride from Grove 2*
Leader:
David Smith
Start Time:
1:00 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
A Hillier ride to Hermitage!

37 miles (59km) afternoon ride with a tea stop at Hilliers Garden centre in Hermitage, at a riding pace of 11-13mph. There are some hills on the route, particularly on the way to Hermitage, but the pace will be very easy to compensate, no one will be left behind. There is also lots of descent on the way back to compensate!
So come and try something a little different on a July Saturday afternoon.
Riders:
Andy Newell
Brian Hipwell
Chris Walters
David Smith
Des Higgs
Guy Yeates
Jan McCabe
John Talbot
John Tranter
Richard Preece
Steve Boreham
Ursula Hallam
Riders = 12
Report:
An excellent turnout for what turned out to be a tough 2* ride!

Unfortunately one of us had to retire on Court Hill due to a serious mechanical problem, hope you didn't have to walk all the way home! Court Hill was just a taster for what was to come, a particular highlight was the short sharp climb from the B4494 towards Peasemore. After a pleasant tea stop at Hilliers (fantastic selection of cakes, luckily most of the hills were behind us!) we headed north to Beedon, Stanmore and back to the B4494 for the quick descent down Chain Hill.

Apologies to those that couldn't access the route via Bike Route Toaster on Saturday morning, not sure what happened, but it was probably my fault. :)
Distance:
57.78 km (35.90 mi)
Ride Details:
http://ridewithgps.com/trips/326307
Top of Court Hill
Top of Court Hill
Top of Woolley Hill
Top of Woolley Hill
Hermitage Teastop
Hermitage Teastop
Proposed Route: http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=278803"
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Sun Jul 24th 2011
Sunday afternoon ride from Grove 1*
Leader:
David Smith
Start Time:
2:00 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
A slightly tougher route this time, just under 20 miles (30km) with a tea stop at the very popular Q Gardens in Steventon. There's a reasonable climb up from East Hanney to Q Gardens and there is the option of further hills on the way from East Hendred to West Ginge if the group feels like it. The pace will be very gentle as fitting a 1* ride, but do come and try your legs on a few hills.
Riders:
Brian Hipwell
Chloe Tucker
David Smith
Jasmine Talbot
John Talbot
Matthew Talbot
Richard Preece
Robin Tucker
Tracey Talbot
Ursula Hallam
Riders = 10
Report:
A great turnout with plenty of young riders. The weather was warm if a little overcast but we had a great ride to Q Gardens. Steventon Hills was definitely no pushover and the traffic on the short section of the A4130 particularly busy, however the cakes, tea and, erm, bouncy castle were worth it!
The ride back to grove was along much quieter roads but still had one or two hills to keep the interest of the younger riders.

Thanks to everyone for coming along.
Distance:
30.53 km (18.97 mi)
Ride Details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/101515578
Bouncy bouncy.
Bouncy bouncy.
Q Gardens Teastop
Q Gardens Teastop
Proposed Route: http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=273102"
Comment on this ride

1

Written by : John Talbot

Posted on : July 25, 2011 at 12:26 AM

Thanks for leading this Dave. A great intro to club riding for the Talbot juniors. They thoroughly enjoyed their afternoon and soon got the hang of calling out "Car Up" and "Car Down"!!

Tue Jul 26th 2011
Tuesday Evening 3* Ride 3*
Leader:
Chris Walters
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Out through Steventon and Abingdon and back via Tubney and Fyfield - a flat ride tonight. Includes social stop at the Fox, Denchworth at the end of the ride.
Riders:
Andrew Johnson
Chris Walters
David Ryan
Derek Boutle
Des Higgs
Iain Kent
John Talbot
John Tranter
Paul Jarvis
Paul Ryan
Phil Stubbings
Robert Ryan
Riders = 12
Report:
A perfect night for a short, sharp ride. The group of 12 set off, and it was great to see all the Ryan boys out on our ride, and mum and dad on the 2*! It was also nice to see Derek out on a Tuesday evening ride, but he was only there because Des convinced him that it was the ride leaders' duty to buy all riders a beer.... I did wonder why it's been hard to get ride leaders for a pub evening! Needless to say, Derek was sorely disappointed.

The first speedy section (for those that fancied it!) saw a few calories expended across Cow Lane, and we then settled down to a more sedate (but still very acceptable) pace through Abingdon and out to Fyfield. The second dash of the evening kicked in from Fyfield Wick, and then we all came into Denchworth together, where about half of the group joined the other rides for sustenance at the Fox.

Well done everyone for working together well as a group, and for riding very considerately. The rolling average speed of 27.5km/h looks to be this season's best!

Distance:
37.80 km (23.49 mi)
Ride Details:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/101977501
Proposed Route: http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=125915"
Comment on this ride

1

Written by : Sorrel Williams

Posted on : July 28, 2011 at 12:50 PM

I think special mention needs to go to the female that led you all out along Cow Common avec grande vitesse and the youngest member of the group that led us all back through Denchworth!

Tue Jul 26th 2011
Tuesday Evening 2* Ride 2*
Leader:
Edith Hipwell
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Enjoy an easy-paced ride around the local lanes. 25 - 40km. May be hills on some weeks. Includes social stop at the Fox, Denchworth at the end of the ride.
Riders:
Adrian West
Brian Hipwell
Edith Hipwell
Geoff Neill
Ginny Henderson
Lisa Ryan
Maurice Bawden
Mel Westmoreland
Paula Tansley
Philip Thornton-Evison
Richard Ryan
Susan Holdroyd
Riders = 12
Report:
A fast ride with a hill at the beginning I was leading from the back and let Brian take the lead. We headed out of Grove through Denchworth turning left out over the Railway bridge heading out onto the wantage /Faringdon roadturning back left. Heading back toward Wantagewe turned right opposite the garage heading for silver lane up the hill to footpath for Childrey heading down the hill into Childrey. heading out in the direction for Sparshot,West cott,Kingston Lisle through the village and down common hill, back to the Fox at Denchworth in time to see the 3* riders arriving.
Distance:
26.39 km (16.40 mi)
 
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Tue Jul 26th 2011
10 Mile Club 1* 1*
Leader:
Steve Boreham
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
A gentle ride around nearby villages - all welcome! Includes social stop at the Fox, Denchworth at the end of the ride.

Tonight's ride will take us out of Grove, through Charlton, then along to West Lockinge, via the cycle track. Then on to East Lockinge, past Ardington and Lains Barn. Just a short hop on the A338, then through the Hanneys and back to Denchworth. Option to stop for that well-earned drink, (Lights recommended) or straight back to Grove if preferred

These rides are designed to be sociable and leisurely at a riding pace of about 10 miles per hour, suitable for newcomers to cycling, irregular cyclists and families and for those who just fancy a gentle ride . We'll stop to admire the scenery and anything that takes our eye, and no-one will be left behind. All are welcome although U-13s should be accompanied by a responsible adult .

Estimate 12 miles (19km)
Riders:
Chloe Tucker
Kerry Tucker
Liz King
Luke Smith
Maggie Humphreys
Robin Tucker
Steve Boreham
Steve Burr
Riders = 8
Report:
A good turn out tonight. Eight of us, including two new faces, braved the sunshine for a gentle ride. A couple of hills, but of course the nice long downhill past Lains Barn was also enjoyed.

A steady pace of around 11mph was maintained, (must of been the thought of a drink at the end for most of us...) Most stopped at pub for that drink with 2 & 3 star riders to round it off nicely.
Distance:
20.28 km (12.60 mi)
 
Comment on this ride

Tue Jul 26th 2011
Offroad ride 2*
Leader:
Robin Tucker
Start Time:
6:30 pm
Start Location:
OMH
Description:
Knobbly tyres required. About 15 miles up to the Ridgeway and back down again.

Will be calling at the Fox in Denchworth on the way back to meet up with the other club groups.
Riders:
Riders = 0
Report:
No takers tonight so cancelled and I joined the 1* ride.
Comment on this ride

Sun Jul 31st 2011
Boulters Bash 110km - away ride 3*
Leader:
Nick Dunton
Start Time:
9:30 am
Start Location:
Pangbourne
Description:
3* special starting in Pangbourne and following the route of the Boulter’s Bash Audax. 110km with three major climbs in the first half. Second half of the route is flatter, if less picturesque.

Start 9.30 a.m. in River Meadow carpark, Pangbourne [on B471, on right just before toll bridge, signpost “Shoppers Long-Stay”]; free parking Sunday.

Route: Pangbourne, Whitchurch, Goring Heath, Chazey Heath, Tokers Green, Kidmore End, Sonning Common, Bolt’s Cross, Greys Green, Bix, Middle Assendon, Skirmett, Frieth, Marlow, Winter Hill, Cookham, Maidenhead [lunch stop, Jenner’s Café, Riverside Gardens], Bray, Holyport, Moneyrow Green, Touchen-end, Paley Street, Shurlock Row, Winnerish, Arborfield Cross, Spencers Wood, Grazeley Green, Theale, Bradfield, Pangbourne.

Please call Nick [01235-848580] if you intend to participate: ride will not happen if no takers.
Riders:
Chris Walters
Ginny Henderson
Jan McCabe
Nick Dunton
Paul Jarvis
Robert Shaw
Riders = 6
Report:
Great weather: warm, sunny, slight breeze - possibly the best cycling day for weeks. Other than my inability to count the number of hills en route, no problems with ride. There was a sportive running in the opposite direction for some of the route - must have been more cyclists on the road than I've ever seen! Cyclists rule OK. Lunch stop at Jenner's Cafe, Boulter's Lock was good. Nowhere to stop for tea on return leg so we made it back to Pangbourne with empty bottles, for tea at Dippy Cafe [Ditty, surely, Ed].
Distance:
109.00 km (67.73 mi)
 
Comment on this ride

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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