Past Rides

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Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A 50 mile route with a tea stop at Filkins Mill. Some climbing, but nothing too steep. Pace will be normal 3*.
Riders: Barry Gills Chris Walters Christopher Whitworth David Smith David Talboys Frank Schroer Louis Hall Peter Cowan Richard Preece Stephen Quartermain Ursula Hallam Riders = 11 Weather: Report: Dare we hope that this was the start of the better weather? It was certainly a lovely day and lots of you came out to enjoy it. There was some fairly strong gusts in a couple of places and the wind did seem to change direction with us but that’s cycling! I hadn’t ridden the route from Highworth to Filkins before and it turned out to be really pleasant, quiet, well surfaced roads. Filkins was excellent as usual and luckily quiet when we arrived en masse. The ride home via Bampton & Buckland was enjoyable and we all arrived back at Grove without any technical incidents or punctures which is always a bonus! Average speed 14.1 and 388m of climbing, a great way to spend Saturday afternoon. Welcome to Chris Whitworth & Peter Cowan on their first 3* with the club, hope to see you again soon.
Distance: 77.80 km (48.34 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1224954
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2278542"
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Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 2. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: David Brown David Yearley Richard Anstis Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Riders = 5 Weather: Report: At start time it was good to see the road riders out again after a wet and very long winter. I think we all benefitted from the last couple of weeks being without rain - although there was a little on the morning of the ride, it managed to dry up in most places. As a result, the off-road riding was a little bit easier, and we explored some routes we haven't seen for a while. We started along Crab Hill and then Goddards Brook. Then headed off the back of the Ridgeway down 'Ice Valley' and for a change along the road a few hundred metres before climbing back up to Scutchamer's Knob. We decided to chance the East Ginge descent for the first time this year. It had dried, but with a heavy mottling of hoofprints. As a result, it was quite a boneshaker of a ride down. I was missing full suspension as I'd chosen to stick with the hardtail, but even the fully-suspended David Y felt it! Then, back along the road/Sustrans to Wantage and as it wasn't too bad, Crab Hill. We finished surprisingly early - about 8:30. A month ago, that trip would have taken an extra half our at least!
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)
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Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A simple starter to the season - out via West Hanney to Southmoor and back via Charney Bassett. Please bring lights as it's likely to be dusk on arrival back in Grove.
Riders: Andy Pixton David Smith Des Higgs Katherine Boyce Lorna Swanton Maurice Bawden Michael Tayler Nicole Pethybridge Richard Preece Sara Smith Steve Burr Steve Joyce Steve Swanton Ursula Hallam Riders = 14 Weather: Report: It was a great turnout for the first Tuesday ride of the season. The weather forecast had been threatening rain, but it stayed dry if a little chilly. It was a good ride for catching up with people you hadn't seen for a while and having a pleasant cycle.
Distance: 27.12 km (16.85 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2313569"
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Please Note 2pm Start time. Our Annual Spring Ride aimed at those who haven't been cycling much over the winter and want to get out on the bike again. Friends, families and newcomers very welcome. This will be a gentle ride of about 2 hours around the quiet lanes of the Vale of White Horse visiting the villages of Lyford, Charney Bassett, Stanford and Denchworth. We'll stop regularly to catch our breath and take in the views and we'll a stop by the shop in Stanford-in-the-Vale for refreshments (or ice creams) about 2/3rds of the way round.
Riders: Brian Hipwell John Tranter Judith Agnew Kerry Tucker Lorna Swanton Matthew Quartermain Phil Jeffery Richard Preece Robin Tucker Stephen Quartermain Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 12 Weather: Report: Despite the forecast for rain, there was a good turnout of 12 (hardy) riders for this years BoYBR. Sadly no newcomers this year, but Kerry did claim to be getting back-on-her bike due to all the recent wintry weather. It was raining only gently when we started, and although the rain persisted throughout, was never too heavy (and unlike last year, no hail and it wasn't cold). We rode the route as planned, taking a brief rest sheltering under the trees by the church in Lyford and an enforced rest for a puncture stop just entering Stanford. This was my first puncture in something like 3 years. ... We had already decided that rather than stop at the shop we would continue to the Fox for refreshments in the dry. However, it was something of a surprise to find the pub closed (now from 2pm on both Sat and Sun). So we continued back to Grove and several came back to our house for tea - thanks to Robin and Kerry for the lovely cakes purchased from the bakers. Thanks to everyone for coming and making it such a convivial ride. Roll on the Spring! Steve
Distance: 24.94 km (15.50 mi)
Sheltering under the trees in Lyford Smiling despite the rain
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Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Greenham Business Park by Greenham Common, Newbury
Description: *** UPDATE 13/04 17:30 Ride definitely on. Forecast fair. Entries accepted on the day ☺ *** A moderately hilly ride taking in the scenic views from Combe Gibbet and Watership Down with a tea stop in Whitchurch - approx 60km. Starting at Greenham Common we will head across and out of Newbury via the back roads to climb the Combe Gibbet hill (twice!) before descending to Hurstbourne Tarrant and along to Whitchurch for a tea stop. From Whitchurch a gentler climb (or two!) takes us to the top of Watership Down from where we can then cruise into Kingsclere, along the foot of the Down and back to Greenham. Standard 3* pace, taking the hills at your own pace and regrouping to catch breath/admire views/wait for me at the top. Meet at Greenham Business Park in the car park by Greenham Common - free - postcode RG19 6HX. The business park can be found on the A339 out of Newbury towards Basingstoke. Directions to the car park from the entrance can be found here. You have to use the main entrance to the park at weekends, then follow the signs to Venture West / English Provender. We will start by crossing the common on the smoothly gravelled track (not shown on the route below) - actually in better shape than some of the pot-holed roads at the moment ☺ Please let me know if you intend to ride by the Saturday lunchtime.
Riders: Chris Walters David Smith David Talboys Frank Schroer John Tranter Phil Stubbings Richard Pethybridge Ursula Hallam Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Today’s dilemma was what to wear! Would it be cold or hot, well it turned out to be hot! A great turnout for an away-day, 8 of us set of across Greenham Common and successfully navigated the Tescos roundabout before settling in to the ride proper. The roads were surprisingly dry given the rain yesterday and we were sheltered from the wind for the first 10 miles, which luckily included the 2 big ascents of the day. We really started to feel the strength of the wind as we regrouped at the top of Walbury Hill for the descent to Hurstbourne Tarrant and on to St Mary Bourne where Frank got us all to pose for a group photo in front of the picturesque cottage with dove cote in the garden. The next few miles were quickly dispatched and we were soon in H’s Coffee Shop in Whitchurch for refreshment and a good chat. The climb to Watership Down starts literally from the café door which is a bit of a shock to the system after tea and cake but it is a fairly steady climb with a few bits of rolling downhill to keep the rider going. We soon seemed to be at the top of Watership Down admiring the view over Newbury and Greenham Common in the distance. There’s then a fantastic downhill section to Kingsclere to enjoy before more rolling hills back to Greenham and the cars. Thanks to everyone for making the effort to come out and I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.
Distance: 61.30 km (38.09 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1239125
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2265690"
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Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 2. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: David Brown David Yearley Richard Anstis Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A very pleasant evening and we set off to go a bit further than usual. We went via Crab Hill to the Ridgeway, climbing Goddards Brook then down the other side, and up again - but only 2/3 of the way up the hill before turning left. About here 2 of us had punctures in quick succession - hedge trimmings being the prime suspect. Then we carried on along the field edge and down a fast track to the road into West Ilsley, where we turned left and slogged back up to the Ridgeway. Our final big descent was the Ginge singletrack - regrettably still in washboard from having dried out with many hoof impressions in the mud. Still, we all retained most of our teeth. Back to Grove in the dark and starting to get a little cold. A great ride even with the enforced stops!
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
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Leader: Steve Swanton	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. This evening we'll head out westwards through the Springline villages of East Challow, Sparsholt and Westcot to Kingston Lisle, returning through the Vale via Goosey and Denchworth, a distance of about 16 miles. We'll use the bridleway from East Challow to Childrey - alternative road route for those on skinny tyres. Lights recommended (sunset 20:04).
Riders: Adrian West Andy Belcher Brian Hipwell Edith Hipwell Michael Tayler Mila Yearley Nicole Pethybridge Paul Watson Richard Delacour Sara Smith Steve Boreham Steve Burr Steve Joyce Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 15 Weather: Report: It was a lovely evening to be out on the bike. Good to see some familiar faces out again after the long winter. Sadly Steve J suffered a burst tyre shortly after the start, but fortunately close to home. There were no further incidents, and it was just great to be out riding. There was something of a westerly breeze as we headed out, turning into a good tail wind on the way back. We saw the 3* group several times including passing them heading in the opposite direction near Childrey. We all enjoyed the sweeping descent from Kingston Lisle and as we headed back to Goosey the evening light was gorgeous. For those who looked there was a lovely sunset from the railway bridge. Back in Grove just after 8. Thanks everyone for an enjoyable ride.
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)
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Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Long, hilly, quick - or any combination! - 35-45km South through Grove and Wantage to the Letcombe Road. Up seldom climbed Windmill Hill to the B4507. Along to Sparsholt and the B4001 to Challow Station. Goosey, Charney Bassett, Lyford and Denchworth Dash on the way back. 28km but options to cut shorter if required. Please bring lights as it will be dusk towards the end of the ride.
Riders: Andy Cowan Andy Pixton Barry Farquhar Chris Walters Christopher Whitworth Frank Schroer Geoff Covey John Talbot John Tranter Louis Hall Maurice Bawden Peter Cowan Phil Stubbings Richard Preece Riders = 14 Weather: Report: A lovely evening for a ride despite a niggly headwind for the first half. A good turnout of 14 riders including new rider Barry (Baz). Unfortunately Phil suffered a puncture on Windmill Hill and decided to repair and turn back. On the undulating B4507 Maurice managed to take a wrong turn so we weren't sure where he had gone but hoped we would pick him back up in Childrey! We passed the 2* group going in the opposite direction in Sparsholt and had a lovely quick ride down to Challow Station. A short stretch on the A417 which was quiet (in fact all the roads were quiet tonight) to Goosey. We set a steady and sociable pace through Charney Bassett, Lyford and Denchworth. It was nice to catch up with friends not seen over the winter. Several of us went for it on Denchworth Dash which was fun and a good end to a very pleasant ride. Thanks for coming along! PS Maurice followed us back and arrived in Grove at the same time as the rest of the group. PPS Phil's spare tube was also punctured so he had a long walk back from Letcombe
Distance: 28.00 km (17.40 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1244850
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2355781"
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Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: Cerney Wick - Cotswold Outdoor store
Description: From the Cotswold Outdoor shop in Cerney Wick into the Cotswolds. Not quite fulfilling the criteria for hilly, this is very definitely at the top end of lumpy. Most of the climbing is in the first half as we ascend onto the Cotswold plateau before finding the source of the River Coln, the following it all the way down to Fairford before a final flat stretch back to Cerney Wick. We will stop for coffee if there is demand, probably at Bibury. Please bring fuel for a 4 hour ride. 81km with 795m of climbing, we will run this at a pace that should be fine for regular 3* riders, as well as 2* riders who've been working hard on their fitness over the winter (if it's ended!).
Riders: Chris Walters David Smith Des Higgs John Talbot Louis Hall Nick Dunton Phil Stubbings Ursula Hallam Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Spring has finally sprung! A fantastic ride today as eight set out, but Des turned back not far out of Kemble as his knee was playing up. We managed to find the top of the river Coln and followed it down to Whelford, via a very pleasant outdoor tea stop in Bibury. The Garmin (or was it the leader?) gave a few odd directional instructions, but all was well in the end. Back through Fairford, we had a couple of spirited sections on the run into Cerney Wick, where a very nice outdoor lunch was taken. Delightful.
Distance: 84.10 km (52.26 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1252435
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2290994"
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Leader: Glen Savegar	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: 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. This month we will head out to Lechlade, taking in the Letcombes, Childrey, Sparsholt, Kingston Lisle, Fernham, Coleshill, with a lunch stop at the Black Cat Cafe. Our return will take us a little north of Lechlade before diverting onto Bampton, Aston (option of a tea stop at the pottery), Buckland, Charney Bassett, Denchworth, Grove, Wantage. Mostly level route with one or two hills, but nothing too testing, and a leisurely/moderate pace. Now spring has finally arrived we should be in for a treat! Approx 80 km (49 miles)
Riders: Adrian West David Talboys Glen Savegar Mila Yearley Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Well!...The nice weather from Saturday had certainly carried on into Sunday, and we enjoyed a fine day on our bikes. Poor Adrian however was unlucky enough to suffer a series of bike malfunctions in the space of just a few miles. (1) Puncture at Letcombe Bassett. (2) Loss of half a rear mudguard at Fernham, and finally (3) Water bottle abandoned ship approaching Coleshill. Things could only get better from now on, and he was advised to consider a less stressful hobby such as golf (or maybe bowls ?)... A top lunch at the Black Cat Cafe...Soup, bacon butty, jacket spud, and sandwiches. The sun shone beautifully, so we enjoyed a convivial hour sitting in the garden. Onwards, taking in the villages north of Lechlade, assisted most of the way by the chill breeze making for a brisk pace to Aston Pottery . Buckland hill provided an opportunity to burn of the tea break calories, followed by a final stretch home on quiet roads. Thanks everyone for your excellent company! Glen S
Distance: 80.00 km (49.71 mi)
Welcome Break, Kencot Village! Cyclists and Spire! David, Adrian, Mila, Aston Pottery!
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: Abingdon Market Square
Description: The fourth annual Abingdon Spring Cycle Festival is going to be bigger and better, and this year there really is something for everyone. There will be even more (free) rides so there will be something to suit you, whether young, old, beginner or seasoned cyclist - just turn up and ride! This years programme includes: Led road rides of 10, 27 and 50 miles; led off-road rides of 10, 15 and 25 miles, beginners rides and an Audax ride (which has a small entrance fee). Things kick off from 9:00am, with led rides starting throughout the morning through to 12:00. You'll need to register for your chosen ride, so please arrive in good time. Please click on the link below for more details and to download a copy of the itinerary for the day. You can also find route maps for a number of the rides. The weather forecast is looking good. So if you are free on Sunday, why not join in this unique local event.
Riders: Chloe Tucker Eve Thornton Frank Schroer Kerry Tucker Lorna Swanton Mandy Wassell Robin Tucker Steve Boreham Steve Burr Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Report: Freewheeling certainly succeeded in putting on a bigger and better event than ever this year. The sun shone, hundreds turned up to cycle and there was a great atmosphere in the market place all day. Congratulations to Peter Burgess and all the team at Freewheeling for putting on such a wonderful event. Quite a few Wantage regulars took part in the rides and 4 of us helped to man the information desk - my thanks to Eve, Robin and Steve Boreham for their help. If you were there and I've missed you off the list on the left, please let me know. Update 25/4 - I understand from Peter B that some 370 people registered for the rides on Sunday, and there were quite a few more that tagged on to the groups as well. Amazing. Steve S
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
Abingdon Market Place full of activity as the 2013 Spring Cycling Festival got under way Robin and Eve helping to man the information stall Oh Yeah! - Roll up for an off-road ride... Abingdon Spring Cycle Festival 2013
Proposed Route: http://groupspaces.com/AbingdonFreewheeling/pages/spring-cycle-festival"
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Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 2. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: Barry Baker David Brown David Yearley John Davies Richard Anstis Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Riders = 7 Weather: Report: Warm and sunny - I haven't said those for a while! And it was great to have our numbers up to 7 due to the return of Barry and the new appearance of John. We took the classic Crabs Hill route out of Grove. Apart from a couple of deep muddy puddles on the bit near the canal, this has now dried out, though is still very bumpy. Then past the Nelson and along the cyclepath and on to Ardington. North a bit, west a bit to the Ginge brook and we climbed up zig-zag hill via the track opposite the stables. I'm not sure this particular track was a great idea of mine as it was very bumpy - a common feature of trails at the moment. From the top, we had a great view in the lowering sunshine and Richard P insisted we get some photos - which I have to say are well worth it. We then headed east along the Ridgeway, squinting into the sun a bit, until we got to the top of the descent. The first bit, contouring through a small woods was great fun and much faster than when it's wet and slippy, and the main stretch down to Goddards Brook was fast, flowing and terrific. We reassembled at the bottom and made our way back via Charlton and Crab Hill once more. No punctures and lengthening evenings meant that our lights were almost un-needed.
Distance: 22.53 km (14.00 mi)
Spring finally arrives on the Ridgeway 2013 The Magnificent 7 ride into the sunset (if you include Richard P who took the pic!)
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Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This week we will do some light climbing and some fun descending. Out via the Letcombes, up Hackpen Hill, back across on the Seven Barrows road, down Blowing Stone Hill and down Kingston Lisle Hill, before a good blast (hopefully with a tail wind) through Goosey and Denchworth and home. Around 22 miles / 35km.
Riders: Andy Pixton Ashley Brown Barry Farquhar Cathy Brown John Tranter Nicole Pethybridge Richard Delacour Richard Preece Riders = 8 Weather: Report: A great ride, in beautiful conditions. All went according to plan. It was great to meet Ashley and Cathy, out with us for the first time on their tandem, although they clearly had an unfair advantage downhill! A fun evening!
Distance: 37.01 km (23.00 mi)
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Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: The first of our occasional faster/harder Tuesday evening rides. These rides will be at the limit of what the club will offer in terms of speed and/or effort. Average speed will be 25-30kph (16-19mph) on flat rides. Flat and fast route in the Vale with options to go a bit further if we're making good time. Please bring lights as it could be dusk towards the end of the ride.
Riders: Andy Cowan Chris Walters Christopher Whitworth David Smith Frank Schroer Geoff Covey Janet Charleston John Talbot Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Phil Stubbings Riders = 11 Weather: Report: Our first ever 4* ride (aka Frank's 40th Birthday Ride). A good sized group of 11 on a fabulous evening, sunny and warm. Legs were out for the first time in 2013 We maintained a strong pace of 30kph outwards into the wind to Uffington. After a quick breather at Longcot we blasted back across the Vale with the wind behind us at upwards of 40kph! We made good time so we extended the ride via West Hanney. The usual excitement of Denchworth Dash saw the group splinter a little but overall great group riding at a fast pace. Well done everybody Overall average was 28.7kph which is spot on what I expected for a flat 4* ride.
Distance: 43.40 km (26.97 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1261837
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2383595"
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: The first of our leisurely and sociable 10-mile club rides of the season, designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of about 10 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. This week we'll head out via Denchworth to the village of Goosey with its large green and pretty white-washed church. We'll return by the same route, a round trip of about 8 miles following quiet country lanes. Please bring refreshments and an extra layer to keep you warm (as it can get cold in the lanes towards dusk). Newcomers to cycling and accompanied children very welcome.
Riders: Isabelle Barber Janet Hammonds John Stamp Kerry Tucker Lorna Swanton Steve Swanton Susan Fletcher Watts Riders = 7 Weather: Report: A perfect evening for our first 10-mile club ride of the season. Seven riders set off from Grove following the usual 1* practice of avoiding the Main St traffic by taking the Mary Green shared use path as far as Waylands Road, and then on to Brereton Drive. There was something of a light headwind on the outward leg and we enjoyed the tailwind on the way back. We stopped briefly in a sunny spot by the Fox in Denchworth and then for a longer break by the church in Goosey. As everyone was doing well, we extended the ride by a couple of miles by continuing past the Asti stud turn and on to the Charney-Denchworth road, where we turned right back towards Denchworth. Although it was cooling off in the lengthening shadows towards the end, the sun shone throughout. we were back in Grove just before 8pm A warm welcome to Isabelle and Susan, and welcome back to Janet on her first Tuesday evening ride.
Distance: 16.09 km (10.00 mi)
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Leader: Glen Savegar	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: 45-55km (30 - 40 miles) afternoon ride, with a tea stop, at a riding pace of ~18km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. This month we will head in an easterly direction calling through many of the villages on route to Aston Tirrold, followed by a tea stop at Blewbury or Chilton. One or two hills, but taken at a comfortable pace to suit the group, with time to enjoy the surroundings! Route outline...OMH, Denchworth, Hanney, Steventon, Drayton, Sutton Courtenay, Appleford, North & South Moreton, Aston Tirrold, Blewbury, Chilton, Harwell Campus following cycleway to Ginge, Ardington, Lockinge, Laines Barn, OMH. (Approx 55 km)
Riders: Andy Pixton Brian Hipwell David Talboys Des Higgs Glen Savegar Katherine Boyce Michael Tayler Richard Preece Stephen Quartermain Steve Boreham Steve Burr Steve Swanton Riders = 12 Weather: Report: The Met Office were spot on with their timings, and sure enough by 1300 hrs the skies north of Grove were looking very grey indeed! But it's only a drop of rain surely?...No!...in fact it's quite a bit of rain!...better head for cover! A couple of false starts later and we were eventually away, only to be hail stoned between Denchworth and Hanney! A fine day from then on, with Michael and Steve Q joining us at Steventon. Once clear of the busy Steventon/Drayton stretch, we were soon enjoying quieter roads and a well earned water break above Long Wittenham. Onwards now through the Moretons to Aston Tirrold, skirting Blewburton Hill with its Iron Age Hill Fort. My plan had been to stop at the Style Acre Tearoom Blewbury, but because of the group size opted to carry on over the hill from Upton to the larger Chilton garden centre. I wish now I'd chosen the former...but the break was welcome and it made for a comfortably short ride post tea. The cycleway from Harwell to Ardington was a joy in the lovely spring sunshine. Thanks Steve (S) for leading the group through the Harwell Campus diversion. The final few kms remained as we passed by Laines barn. How far can you freewheel downhill? Quite a distance actually! We were back to OMH for about 17.15 hrs. A very enjoyable afternoon with excellent company! Thanks everyone! Glen S
Distance: 60.35 km (37.50 mi)
The Gathering Storm! Spring Has Finally Arrived!
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Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: Northmoor Village Hall
Description: UPDATE :- The organiser will accept entries on the line. Please arrive in plenty of time to do the necessary paperwork. UPDATE 2 :- If you would like to go in a group from OMH please let me know before Sunday. I'll be cycling to the start from home via the Hanneys and Kingston Bagpuize to arrive at 9am but can divert to Grove if required. Otherwise I suggest we make our individual way to the start and convene there. There is some parking at the start if you want to drive but get there early as it is limited. This Audax is right on CTC Wantage's doorstep. I will be riding this event. If you would like to experience an organised event and the relaxed nature of Audaxing then join me! "A modest excursion into the Cotswold hills followed by a gentle wander through the watery lanes of the upper Thames, the Evenlode and the Windrush." We won't be riding hard as the idea is to complete the course and not race it! Although categorised as a 3* ride this is for distance and duration, the ride will actually be ridden more at a 2* pace. It isn't amazingly hilly but there are a couple of climbs to take note of. You will need to enter the event beforehand via the Audax UK website. It will cost £5 for CTC members or £7 for non-members. I will likely cycle to the start from home aiming to arrive at Northmoor at 9am to sign in but I can coordinate a ride via OMH to and from the start. Contact me if you're interested in riding the Audax as part of a CTC Wantage group.
Riders: Adrian West David Wynn (deceased) John Talbot Louis Hall Neil Talbot Nick Dunton Richard Ronan Steve Swanton Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Great ride in cool cloudy conditions. This had everything Audaxes are famous for including lots of cake and a few wrong turnings. Two new riders for CTC Wantage, welcome to Richard who rides with CTC Oxford City and John's brother Neil who joined us for the ride. After the usual chaotic first few km, we settled into a group and headed to Chipping Norton. Louis took a wrong turning in Witney and as we waited the group split into two (this is fairly typical of audaxes, groups of 2-4 riders form, split, rejoin etc.). The leading group went wrong in Charlbury and the following group caught up so all together again to Chipping Norton. We discussed whether to go to the café in the town but decided it was a bit early and Steve had the brilliant idea of getting to Aston Pottery for lunch another 20km further. Nick and Louis pushed on ahead at this point. After the long ascent to Leafield it was plain sailing to lunch (David decided to go the long way after missing a turn!). Sustenance was definitely required by then and a hearty lunch was taken. We caught up with Louis at Aston and he rejoined the main body of the group from here. Nick and Richard decided to forego lunch and headed for Uffington and home. After Buckland Hill we had a nasty headwind from Hatford to Fernham and the pace dropped considerably. Cake and doughnuts was consumed in the village hall at Uffington and then we flew with a tailwind to the finish and more cake. A good pace for a 110km Audax so thanks for the company and making it a very enjoyable day!
Distance: 109.20 km (67.85 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1274532
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2200409"
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Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 2. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: David Brown John Davies John Talbot Richard Anstis Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Another glorious evening. Six of us headed for the Ridgeway via Crab Hill and Goddards Brook. We had a long, fairly smooth, ride along the ridge with the wind at our backs. Great views. We headed down at Harwell, a fast sweeping descent to the corner of the campus. Then left and back West picking up the Sustrans to East Ginge where we headed North then down to - ta da - The Bridge of DOOM! (Actually I don't know anyone who has suffered real doom here, but is certainly tricky when wet.) Tonight the track was bone dry though, enabling a bumpy line on the left to be used, and with a bit of rear sliding we all made it to across the bridge. Four of us had a go at getting back up the slope , but only made it about 2/3 of the way - it's really tricky, but maybe one day. Then we continued West, via Ardington, picking up the cyclepath into Wantage and back along Crab Hill. It felt a fair bit longer than last week's ride, but the computers agreed on about 16 miles.
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1281146
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Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Just short of 35km, tonight, we'll be heading up Lains Barn to Ardington and then via Ginge and Featherbed Lane to Steventon, Hanney, Lyford and back through Denchworth. There are a few hills on the route, nothing too long or steep though. The pace will be according to the group, but if you've not been on your bike much since the Autumn, this one will definitely test your legs! Lights are recommended.
Riders: Andy Belcher Brian Hipwell Chris Walters David Wynn (deceased) Des Higgs Michael Tayler Richard Delacour Sara Smith Steve Burr Riders = 9 Weather: Report: Very nice group this evening, even after Nicole defected to 3* at the last moment! The cobwebs were well and truly cleared on Lains Barn, and hills followed in quick succession out of Ardington and the (nicely resurfaced) Hendred dip. Steve was unlucky to have a visit from the puncture fairy on Featherbed Lane, but we quickly had him re-inflated. Steventon Hill was as much fun as ever to descend, and there were some spirited efforts just before Hanney before we settled into a lovely social pace and were joined by 3* just coming into Grove. Well done everyone for riding very competently, and putting some good efforts down!
Distance: 35.20 km (21.87 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1281174
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2399208"
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: The second of our leisurely and sociable 10-mile club rides of the season, designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of about 10 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. Tonight we'll be heading out through Denchworth to the villages of West Hanney and Lyford a round trip of about 9 miles. Please bring refreshments and an extra layer to keep you warm (as it can get cold in the lanes towards dusk). Newcomers to cycling and accompanied children very welcome.
Riders: Edith Hipwell Fiona Ashby Isabelle Barber Janet Hammonds Jeff Callan John Stamp Lorna Swanton Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Fletcher Watts Vyvyan Hazell Riders = 11 Weather: Report: We started with 8 and picked up 3 on the way - our largest 10-mile club group for a couple of years. A warm welcome to Fiona, Vyvyan and Jeff. Steve B arrived just as we were setting off, so agreeing that he'd catch us up, we set off towards Denchworth. In our usual fashion we stopped in the village ( a little beyond the T-junction) to check everyone was ok, and waited there for Steve. A cyclist in red with a blue helmet appeared at the junction behind us but turned left instead of right. We shouted after him to no avail. Newcomer Jeff kindly volunteered to chase him down and set off in pursuit...but had it been Steve? As we continued to wait, my doubts grew and eventually I set off after them both. Only to see Steve approaching from Grove as I passed the junction, and with Susan and Isabelle in tow who'd also arrived late. I then saw Jeff coming the other way, having lost the other cyclist... So numbers swelled , we continued as planned to West Hanney and then on to Lyford, turning into the village to stop by the church. As everyone was doing well and the sun was shining, everyone was up for an extension to Charney Bassett. So we enjoyed the longer ride back, returning to Grove just after 8 (although by then it was getting cold - gloves recommended if it stays cold next week!). Thanks everyone for an enjoyable ride. Steve S
Distance: 17.70 km (11.00 mi)
10x10-mile club riders at West Hanney
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Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A slightly longer route tonight at 30 miles (47km) but not intended to be “fast and furious”. Out to Abingdon via Denchworth and Steventon. Heading back to Grove via Frilford Heath, Fyfield, Hinton Waldrist, Gainfield, Charney Basset and Denchworth. There is a short section on the A420 near Fyfield. Lights definitely advisable. Please note the ride will be lead to the clubs 3* guidelines aiming to average 15 mph as the route is flatish.
Riders: Adrian West Andy Cowan Andy Pixton Ashley Brown Barry Farquhar Cathy Brown David Smith Frank Schroer Geoff Covey Joanna Houlston John Tranter Louis Hall Neil Mowforth Nick Dunton Nicole Pethybridge Peter Cowan Phil Stubbings Richard Preece Ursula Hallam Riders = 19 Weather: Report: With a very large turnout for the 3* it seemed sensible to split the ride in to 1 group of 9 led by David sticking to the original route and pace and a faster group of 10. The slower paced group had a very pleasant ride, there was quite a headwind crossing Cow Common but not enough to be a problem. We met several other groups of cyclist on the road, obviousely everyone geting out while the sun shines! We caught up with the 2* group just before the railway bridge between Denchworth & Grove and the group split as some people went for the traditional Denchworth Dash and others stayed to chat with the 2* group. More on the other group when I hear it.
Distance: 49.02 km (30.46 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1283367
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/724085"
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Month	All Nov 2024 Dec 2024 Jan 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2025
Category	All 1* 2* 3* 4* Event
Days	All Weekdays Weekend

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.

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