Past Rides

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Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: Wyevale Garden Centre, A4, Nr Twyford - RG10 9SW
Description: The plan is to cycle from Twyford to Hampton Court via Windsor, Staines and Sunbury, coming back through Weybridge, Chertsey and Winkfield. We will find suitable stops along the way - the route is on-road with a couple of Thames-side paths for variety. Sights along the way include Windsor Castle, Runnymede (Magna Carta), Hampton Court and Virginia Water. The ride is a touch over 100km, but should be achievable by 2* riders who regularly do 3 to 4 hour rides. Please contact Chris by Wednesday 29th May if you intend to come.
Riders: Chris Walters David Yearley Jasmine Talbot John Talbot Michael Tayler Mila Yearley Paul Watson Richard Preece Tracey Talbot Riders = 9 Weather: Report: Despite a little panic at the start when the advertised garden centre no longer wanted our company (despite agreeing it the day before), we found the nearby Hare Hatch Sheeplands garden centre to be very welcoming to cyclists, and well worth a visit! Setting off then, with a few 100km virgins in our midst, we made good time to the cafe at Runnymede, and even saw off the nasty and aggressive drivers on the gyratory at Old Windsor. After that, the urban sprawl hotted up, through Staines and down alongside the Thames at Laleham, before heading past the delightful sewage works (and their attendant midge clouds) just before Bushey Park, where the deer roamed freely. The trip round the back of Hampton Court and into Kingston took us to lunch time, and we had the choice of many things including zebra, ostrich, Bratwurst, Mediterranean fayre and the obligatory Greggs. On our way again through built up areas, we had a bit of a communication error when the Talbots managed to get to the front of the group and the rest of the group thought they'd gone the wrong way, and hence waited for them... in the meantime, the Talbots were creating a huge breakaway. Comms restored, the peloton gave chase through Chertsey and eventually reeled in the breakaway at Virginia Water. The rest of the trip was uneventful, save for missing the cafe closing time at the end of the ride. Well done to everyone who completed their first metric century - it was a great day to do it!
Distance: 104.40 km (64.87 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1398189
Runnymede cafe Runnymede cafe David Bailey (Yearley) on a model shoot Team Talbot, no doubt plotting the afternoon's breakaway... Lunch in Kingston Rest in the sunshine near Virginia Water Another Talbot breakaway?? Approaching 100km for the first time
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4781313"
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Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 1:30 pm	Start Location: Wallingford Market Place
Description: 24 miles East of Wallingford at a moderate pace. We'll head out to Ipsden and Stoke Row, stopping for breath at the Maharajah's Well. Then on to Nuffield, Cookley Green and Ewelme. We'll stop for tea at The Waterfront at Benson before riding the last few miles back. Wallingford is a great place for a bike ride, but has not recently had many rides for the local leisure cyclist. To put this right, CTC Oxfordshire has organised a series of 5 rides for the Wallingford cycling community over the spring and summer. These are based on the popular format of 25 to 40 miles on a Sunday afternoon with a stop for tea and cake. Even if you haven’t done much cycling recently, 25 miles can be surprisingly easy to cover with good company and a suitable refreshment half way. These rides will be at at sociable rather than sporty pace, about 11-13 mph on the road. Some hills are inevitable, but they will be kept to a few. The rides will be led by experienced leaders, and follow CTC guidelines to be safe and enjoyable for everyone. Non-CTC members are welcome, but we ask that you join the CTC if you intend to ride more than 5 times with us. The rides will start from Wallingford Market Place, just outside the Tourist Information Centre at 1:30pm on the first Sunday of each month. (The nearby Goldsmiths Lane car park is currently free on Sundays.) They will normally arrive back at 4:30 to 5pm. (Thanks to CTC Wantage for hosting this page while the CTC Oxfordshire website is being redeveloped.)
Riders: David Bridge Judith Agnew Phil Jeffery Robin Tucker Steve Swanton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Summer arrived right on schedule for this 'second of a series' ride from Wallingford! We followed the 24 mile 'Chilterns' route in one of the leaflets produced by Sustainable Wallingford. By 1:30, 19 of us had assembled in Wallingford Market Place - a great mix of riders and bikes of all types, even a couple (Judith and Phil) on their tandem. After a briefing, we set off East - as ride leader I was slightly nervous about getting this number through 2 sets of traffic lights and across the bridge, but it was of course fine! We then angled right and went up the first hill of the day, Wicks Hill, and after a brief pause to admire the group, down the other side. Then down through Ipsden and left for the big climb of the day: Garsons Hill. Unfortunately the tandem dropped its chain forcing Judith and Phil to walk up, while everyone else who had made it admired the view. The road then flattened out, though we had to navigate a very rough surface into Stoke Row, where we took a breather by the Maharajah's Well. After a break, we looped down through Bassett Wood and back up through Ipsden Wood where the bluebells were still in good form - unusual for them to make it to June. We continued to Nuffield, and up to the B481. Here we spilt into groups of 6 to allow traffic to pass more easily, and regrouped at Cookley Green. Now we got the descent in reward for the earlier climbing - down past Swyncombe Church, long and (if you wanted) fast, though with some gravel and walkers to avoid on the way. Through Ewelme, past the watercress beds, Benson and arriving just after 4pm at our tea stop: the Waterfront at Benson. A few people headed off here, the rest of us enjoyed tea and cake in the sunshine by the river. Eventually, we decided it was time to get back, so we took the quiet road through Preston Crowmarsh and followed the cyclepath back in to Crowmarsh Gifford and back over the bridge into Wallingford. Lots of smiling faces at the end, so I hope we'll continue the good turn out (and good weather!) on future rides.
Distance: 38.62 km (24.00 mi)
Heading out of Wallingford 020613 Heading out of Wallingford 020613 The view from Garsons Hill, Wallingford ride 020613 Top of Garsons Hill and still smiling! 020613 Maharajah's Well - time for a breather. 020613 It goes down two Nelson's Columns you know. 020613 Tea at the Waterfront. Wallingford ride 020613
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2329410"
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Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: Betjeman Park, Wantage (next door to Parish Church
Description: This is a special ride organised in collaboration with the Trustees of the Betjeman Park as part of the Wantage Summer Festival. We are inviting all those interested to start with a tour of the Park and then join us in a gentle 10 mile ride out to Uffington, where John Betjeman lived in the 1930's and 40's. St Mary's Church in Uffington will be providing tea and cakes and there will be the chance to visit Tom Brown's School Museum next door. This will be the end of the formal ride, but we will escort riders back to Wantage and Grove afterwards.
Riders: Andy Belcher Charlotte Styles John Stamp John Tranter John Vandore Steve Boreham Riders = 6 Weather: Report: A really nice ride on a really nice day. Great to see four new riders (all ladies) challenging themselves to do the ride - and managing it with no problems at all! A great introduction from John Vandore with the story of the Betjeman Park and then all went according to plan, including a delicious cream tea at Uffington Church.
Distance: 35.41 km (22.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/456047738
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Leader: Steve Boreham	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A longer but flat ride this evening through the Vale to Stanford. We'll head out via Denchworth, Charney Bassett and Gainfield returning by a single track road called Park Lane. A round trip of about 14 miles. There will be an optional stop for a social at the Fox in Denchworth towards the end of the ride. Our leisurely and sociable 10-mile club rides are 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. Newcomers and returnees to cycling, and accompanied children very welcome.
Riders: Alvaro Rey Beth Mindham Charlotte Styles Edith Hipwell Ian Howland Isabelle Barber Janet Hammonds Kerry Tucker Lorna Swanton Sara Smith Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Fletcher Watts Tracey Oakden Val Smith Vyvyan Hazell Riders = 16 Weather: Report: A nice sunny evening, resulting in a fabulous turn out of sixteen riders - a record for a Tuesday 1* ride. This included new faces - welcome to Beth Mindham & Charlotte Styles. A lovely leisurely pace, enjoying the sunshine, including a stop at the Church Green in Stanford in the Vale, where we were almost treated to the ride leader's "knowledgeable " spiel about the church(!), but this was avoided at the last minute (much to the relief of many), just making time for the "register" to be taken to ensure got all riders listed! Being prompted that the drinks were waiting at the pub, we moved on to complete a very pleasurable ride, with about half stopping at the Holy Grail, aka The Fox in Denchworth, to join riders from the other groups Thanks to all for an enjoyable ride
Distance: 23.64 km (14.69 mi)
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Leader: David Brown	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. Optional pub stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride.
Riders: David Brown John Davies Richard Anstis Riders = 3 Weather: Report: Crabhill, Larkhill, cut across to Manor Road, up, right onto the Ridgeway, along, and for a change, left at the top of Gramp's Hill to cut across to Sheepdrove farm before working our way back to Denchworth via Sparsholt, Childrey and West Challow on road. So, a fairly typical pub-night route which no doubt we've done before, but thanks to the changing seasons no ride is ever the same. Tonight the trails were bone dry and baked hard in places, a total contrast from last week, and a world of difference from the spring and winter. Vegetation had also sprung up from whence there was only mud but a few weeks ago, thankfully little of the nettle variety.
Distance: 30.90 km (19.20 mi)
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Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: The sun is shining - finally time for the odd 2* hill! Nothing too awful, just Hackpen Hill. So - around Wantage to the Letcombes, up the aforementioned minor challenge and then back down the exhilarating descent to Sparsholt, along to Kingston Lisle, down one of the two available hills (depending how frisky we are feeling) and then back through the Vale the usual way. Optional pub stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride.
Riders: Andy Belcher Brian Hipwell Conrad Ashby Des Higgs Fiona Ashby Gareth Paterson John Stamp John Tranter Maurice Bawden Michael Tayler Paul Watson Richard Shackleton Sarah Shackleton Steve Joyce Vicky Fox Riders = 15 Weather: Report: A great group, including some new and returning riders. Perfect weather. All went according to plan. John Stamp pretended to suffer on the hills, but we all knew he was only fooling.
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/456042770
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Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Long, hilly, quick - or any combination! - 35-45km. Optional pub stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. Enough daylight now to get to Boar's Hill on a variation of one of my favourite Tuesday evening routes. Out to Garford and a short stretch of the A338 to Dry Sandford. Wootton and up the quiet road to Boar's Hill before going down the fantabulous descent of Foxcombe Hill. Back via Fyfield and Charney Bassett. Other than Boar's Hill this is a flat ride so we can keep a decent 3* pace up over most of the 46km. Those who wish can stop at The Fox at Denchworth for a social with the other groups. If you do please bring lights for the return to Grove.
Riders: Barry Farquhar Bryan Charleston Christopher Whitworth Frank Schroer Geoff Covey Janet Charleston John Talbot Louis Hall Nicole Pethybridge Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Peter Greenfield Phil Stubbings Richard Delacour Riders = 14 Weather: Report: Almost summer !! Shame about the strong NE wind but the route was planned with this in mind so we had it in our faces for the first half of the ride. We made good progress to Wootton and the back road up Boar's Hill, several riders had never been this way up the hill before. It's not as steep but in a big group it's less stressful than the normal hill when you have cars coming down towards you! After we caught our breath at the top it was full speed ahead for the descent of Foxcombe Hill. And with the wind behind us for the return we were going at a good lick. Chris had a flat after Fyfield which he dealt with and still managed to catch the group up again before Denchworth! Some of us stopped at the pub for a drink and a natter whilst others went back to Grove.
Distance: 46.40 km (28.83 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1379655
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2617696"
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Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Bury Down car park (South/East one), just off A34
Description: Off-road ride of about 20 miles at a moderate pace. This ride will head south to Hampstead Norreys, then North-east to Streatley, and West along the Ridgeway back to the start. This ride will be towards the gentle end of the scale - We'll go up and down some hills, but all of them can be tackled at a gentle pace. Even so, this is a ride for a well-maintained mountain bike with knobbly tyres, rather than your tourer. Please let the leader know if you are coming in case the ride needs to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. There is an option to nip down to the pub at West Ilsley after the ride.
Riders: Catherine Wainwright David Bridge David Brown John Davies Nick Stokell Robin Tucker Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Our ride today started already up on the Ridgeway, on a fine, but slightly cool and windy day. 6 of us came, including 3 who aren't off-road regulars with the CTC. We headed East on the Ridgeway for about 2 miles, before turning South and working our way down to Hampstead Norreys. On some parts, the nettles are growing rapidly and we got a few stings, in a few weeks it could be more painful. We took up the road for a few miles past The Living Rainforest and then into the woods near Ashhampstead. The sun dappled its way through dense foliage and here we met the only real mud on the journey - one puddle and few patches of 'mostly dry but churned by horses'. The descent from the woods was down a narrow, fairly steep and slightly slippery singletrack - excellent fun! Unfortunately, shortly afterwards, Cath discovered she had a puncture. David B and I volunteered to help and had her sorted out in 7 minutes, having extracted a long thorn (and then remembering to reattach her brake!). Back on the road we worked our way to Streatley, including 2 great descents - the 'hidden' one just to the south of Streatley is a particular favourite. After Streatley, it was up the inevitable hill. Then back along the Ridgeway to the car park at just after 1pm.
Distance: 37.01 km (23.00 mi)
Off-road with a few newcomers on the Ridgeway 080613
Proposed Route: https://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?msid=218197750862335524250.0004db7e63bff4652b5eb&msa=0"
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Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: Culham Lock
Description: An alternative to the Tri-Vets ride for those under 50 or who didn't get on that ride. Starting from the large FREE car park at Culham Lock. The entrance is on the left just after you cross the Thames if travelling from the south. IMPORTANT :-The entrance to the car park has a 6'8" height barrier, if you are using a roof carrier remove your bikes before entering!! We will go via Wallingford onto the Chilterns Cycleway and mostly follow that to Princes Risborough with a lunchstop just beforehand at The Plough at Cadsden. We'll use the Phoenix Trail (good surface suitable for all bikes) past Thame and then through small villages on mostly small lanes back to the start. Options for a tea-stop at Waterperry Gardens or Notcutts if required. Route is 107km (67 miles) and fairly hilly. Most of the hills are before lunch. We'll take a steady touring pace (not fast). Expect around 5-6 hours cycling time. Please let me know if you wish to ride.
Riders: Angela Sanders Barry Gills Bryan Charleston Chris Walters David Talboys Janet Charleston John Talbot John Tranter Nicole Pethybridge Steve Sanders Thomas Charleston Riders = 11 Weather: Report: Eleven riders congregated at the start for this ride into the Chilterns. As forecast the morning started off rather dull and cool, it was tough deciding how many layers to wear when the forecast was for sunny and warm later. The NE wind was never too much of a bother as most of the outward route was sheltered. We quickly warmed up cycling to Wallingford before joining the Chilterns Cycleway. We had some fun and games on Swyncombe Hill as we encountered everything bar the kitchen sink coming down towards us! Mostly the participants in a 10km running race, some of whom were so concentrated on running they didn't see cyclists coming up the hill at them! Cars, horses, cyclists and ramblers followed on the way up. We encountered many groups of cyclists out on Sunday rides near Christmas Common, it's good to see two wheels hugely outnumbering four on the roads The next challenge was Radnage Hill which follows a lovely descent. This one gradually ramps up and gets much steeper towards the top. Probably the toughest hill on the route Near Saunderton a sudden bang heralded the only mechanical of the day as David's rear tube exploded. This was dealt with quickly and we were soon onto the third major climb of the day up the nicely named Pink Hill up Wardrobes Lane. This was a beautiful Chilterns climb, wooded with steep banks either side. The road was pretty steep too! One more smaller ascent (Langdown Hill) was climbed before the lunchstop which appeared suddenly on the left as we descended the other side of the hill, a few overshot and had to climb back up Unfortunately the promised Sun hadn't arrived yet but the garden was sheltered and food arrived quickly so it was pretty pleasant. After lunch the downhill into Monks Risborough was rather chilly. The back roads into Princes Risborough was unfamiliar territory so I took a couple of wrong turnings before we found the town centre and the route onto the Phoenix Trail. Thomas and Bryan left us at this point for a more direct route home via Chinnor. The rest of us negotiated the rather rough link (looking at the map I think this could be avoided if we went this way again) onto the Phoenix Trail where the surface was smooth if a bit dusty for the first few km. The route is tarmac through Thame and pretty quick cycling. We took a comfort break at Thame Leisure Centre before pushing on through Shabbington and Ickford. The Sun was now beginning to come out and arm and leg warmers were starting to be dismissed as we took a tea and cake stop at Waterperry Gardens. Chris decided to push on back to Culham but the rest of us enjoyed a very pleasant break in the sunshine The route back after tea took in the sharp incline out of Wheatley and the undulating road to Garsington but with the wind behind us we made good time. The final leg through the Baldons (and through the cricket pitch outfield) was also quick. That left us the much busier section to Golden Balls, Clifton Hampden (where the Sanders and Janet left to get home) and the A415 back to Culham. With the wind behind we made a good pace. Total cycling time was just over 5hrs, spot on my estimate and we were back in the car park at 4.30pm. Good going for a hilly 110km. It was nice to have an easy, social after lunch half to the ride with no major hills. Thanks for coming, I really enjoyed what was a very chilled and relaxed ride
Distance: 109.70 km (68.16 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1393479
Top of Radnage Hill Lunch at The Plough at Cadsden The Phoenix Trail near Thame The Phoenix Trail near Thame Teastop at Waterperry Gardens
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2383293"
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 8:00 am	Start Location: Islip village hall
Description: Update 16 May - The Oxfordshire ride is now FULL, and we are taking no further bookings. The CTC Triennial Veterans’ Rides (Tri-Vets) are 100-mile “Century” rides’ organised by CTC member groups throughout the country every three years for CTC members over the age of 50. CTC Oxfordshire is running one of the 17 rides this June (see page 14 of the Apr-May edition of Cycle magazine for the full list). Starting from the village hall in Islip to the north-east of Oxford (OX5 2TA, grid ref - SP 525 141), the route is a lop-sided figure-of eight, starting with a 20-mile circuit of Otmoor before an anti-clockwise circuit around Oxfordshire. Coffee at Weston-on-the green; lunch at North Leigh; tea at Steventon. Once again the catering at each of our stops is being provided by local WIs. The Tri-Vets ride is as much a sociable event as a test of endurance, and riders will be divided into groups of about 10-12 riders each with a local leader and sweeper. Groups start at 10 minute intervals from 8.00am through to 8.50am, so riders can choose whether they wish to join a slower or faster group. Certificates are awarded to all finishers and commemorative badges will be available. Any queries, please contact Eve Thornton on 01235 527628 or email mussieve@btinternet.com . Closing date for entries has now passed.
Riders: Brian Hipwell David Smith David Wynn (deceased) Eve Thornton Helen Beane James Dawton John Bridgman Louis Hall Maurice Bawden Pat Hurt Peter Hallowell Robin Tucker Ros Hallowell Stephen Lee Steve Swanton Riders = 15 Weather: Report: A great day out. Full report and photographs will appear on the CTC oxfordshire website soon.
Distance: 162.54 km (101.00 mi)
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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 Gareth Paterson John Davies Richard Anstis Robin Tucker Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Some rain earlier, but dry for the actual ride. Richard brought a strange, bastardised bike - not a racer, not a cross-bike, not a mountain bike. And the weirdest bar-ends you've ever seen. It did of course throw its chain in the first mile through the houses! After dark mutterings, Richard managed to keep it together for the rest of the ride - I think by avoiding first gear! Needless to say, with Richard having limited gearing and no suspension, I picked the hilliest bumpiest route possible! We went up Lark Hill, then west and up Manor Road to the Ridgeway. Then headed east, pausing to admire the view in the sunshine at the Baron Wantage memorial. Onward to the Ginge singletrack descent, already signposted for Saturday's Uptonogood. I'm glad to say that the surface has improved in recent weeks and it is now lots of fun if you have a little suspension. (And, as Richard proved, teeth rattling if you don't!) At the bottom, we turned right, meeting the 3* ride just before the 'bridge of doom'. We all made it across - Richard a bit more nervously than usual! Then back through Ardington and Charlton, and it was still daylight on our return at about 8:30. All told, a very pleasant ride. Having dried, the tracks are hard and speedy compared to earlier in the year.
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)
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Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Enjoy an easy-paced ride around the local lanes. Well, as the 2* group seemed to cope admirably with Hackpen Hill, how about this week we tame the Dragon? Out along the base of the Ridgeway with a few undulations to prepare for the main event. If you don't think you'll make it up the hill don't be put off - if you can get up Hackpen, you should make it up to the top, and it's well worth it for the views. Return via Woolstone, and whichever route takes our fancy - the marked route says Fawler Hill, but we can choose on the night.
Riders: Adrian West Andy Belcher Chris Walters David Smith Fiona Ashby John Tranter Katherine Boyce Lisa Ryan Mark Austin Maurice Bawden Michael Tayler Nicole Pethybridge Paul Ryan Richard Preece Richard Shackleton Robert Ryan Sarah Shackleton Steve Joyce Ursula Hallam Riders = 19 Weather: Report: It's always a nice problem to have to sort out when you've got 19 riders, even though the ride is up the most feared local hill! Thanks to JT for leading a group and Ursula and David for being sweeps. It was also great to see another permutation of the Ryan family out tonight, mum being dragged out by the boys, and doing very well! Out through Wantage then, we singled out and re-grouped at various strategic points to allow the traffic past and also to catch breath at hill tops. Remind me not to race lads respectively 50% of my age and 25% of my age, and in total weighing less than me, and especially not up a hill! Most of us made it up to the summit of White Horse Hill taking in some rather stunning views, before the plummets through Woolstone and again through Kingston Lisle after an ascent of Fawler Hill for the brave. The flatlands gave us an opportunity to rev it up a little for short stretches on the run back in to Grove, with the young (and, ahem, the not so young) having a bit of a thrash. A glorious evening and a thoroughly delightful group - thank you all!
Distance: 35.60 km (22.12 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1401102
Mark on The Hill Richard beating Steve in the hilltop sprint Nicole on The Hill Michael beating Adrian in the hilltop sprint Adrian on The Hill A pair of Shackletons on The Hill Katherine on The Hill Chairman JT on The Hill Enjoying the view from White Horse Hill Chris on The Hill Richard on The Hill
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2629798"
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Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Long, hilly, quick - or any combination! - 35-45km Lumpier 45km ride this week. Going eastwards to Steventon and Harwell and up Hagbourne Hill. Back via Rowstock, West Hendred before descending past Lains Barn.
Riders: Andy Pixton Frank Schroer Geoff Covey Janet Charleston John Talbot Ken Pelton Louis Hall Peter Cowan Phil Stubbings Richard Delacour Riders = 10 Weather: Report: After a rather dull and drizzly day we were lucky to have a bright and warm evening for the rides. This is a route I've led a few times but it conjured up some new hills for several members of the group. We had a nice blast along the Hanney Road to Steventon and soon despatched Steventon Hill. The main attraction was Hagbourne Hill which is a surprisingly tough little climb where there ought to be no hill! We were well organised and pre-arranged stopping points so the group could get together again after each climb. This system worked well until West Hendred when I stopped to have a brief natter with the offroad group we bumped into on the way up and discovered I had been dropped by own ride In future please wait for the leader to catch up The group reconvened at the top of the drop past Lains Barn and with the Sun setting and the shadows lengthening we made our way to Grove. Several of the group went back up the hill to Wantage, the rest of us went back to OMH. A quick 3* ride with an average speed of 25.1km/h which is a lot faster than it should be, especially considering the hills!
Distance: 44.20 km (27.46 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1400870
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2637754"
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Update 14/6 - as the weather forecast is for a strong westerly breeze, we'll go out through the Vale and return via the sheltered lanes through the Spingline villages. There'll be a short tour of the sights of Steventon on the way. Please note 2PM start. This afternoon we are welcoming members of Isis Cyclists, the women's cycling group from Oxford, who will be joining us from the start. We'll be heading East following Sustrans route 44 (with some easy off-road tracks) through the springline villages of Lockinge, Ginge and East Hended to our tea stop at Q-gardens Farm shop, Milton Hill. We'll return through the Vale via Steventon, the Hanneys and Denchworth, a round trip of about 20 miles, at a leisurely pace of about 10mph. We should be back in Grove by 5pm. All welcome including accompanied children. This will be the first of our rides during Bike Week.
Riders: David Bridge Ellen Lee Jane Pearson Janet Hammonds Judith Agnew Lorna Swanton Phil Jeffery Richard Preece Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Weather: Report: At 1:20 the heavens opened and it wasn't looking good. But as we arrived, the rain was stopping and I was very pleasantly surprised to find a group of 20 riders assembling in the car park. We had a nice balance too, with 9 Wantage riders, 9 from Isis plus 2 of their partners. I was just starting my briefing when the rain resumed, so we made quickly for the porch of OMH. But we could see blue sky approaching and by the time we set off the rain was just light. There was a stiff breeze against us as we headed out on the Denchworth road, but soon we were in sunshine and it was feeling decidedly warmer. Another shower caught us en route to Hanney but with a short break under the trees by the church in West Hanney it had soon passed and then it turned into a lovely afternoon. We had a great tailwind across Cow common, but after our rain delays we were running a little late for tea and so had made only a shortened tour of Steventon. Everyone climbed Steventon hill ok, and we were soon at Q-gardens for our tea and cake stop. As ever the service was very efficient, orders were taken and refreshments delivered in very good time. Three riders headed back to Abingdon and Oxford after tea while the rest of us headed up Featherbed Lane into the strong headwind. Once we reached East Hendred, it was more sheltered and we all enjoyed the prettiness of the village as we climbed through it up to route 44. As we set off along the Ginge farm track, the wind seemed to whip up in our faces and it was hard work across to Ginge. But thereafter we were in sheltered lanes again back to Wantage, and even enjoyed a tailwind along the cycletrack to Grove Back at Old Mill Hall about 5:20pm, with everyone saying how much they'd enjoyed it, and Isis members hoping to host a reciprocal ride in the future. It was great to meet the Isis ladies and to make new cycling friends. Thanks to everyone for making the effort to come despite the earlier inclement weather.
Distance: 30.58 km (19.00 mi)
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Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: 108km day ride out to Chipping Norton where we will lunch somewhere or other (there are a number of options) - riding pace 18-22km/h (11-14mph). The outbound is Eynsham and Charlbury, and return via Minster Lovell and Bampton. Not suitable for irregular riders. Although not overly hilly there are some notable bumps going into Chippy and at Minster Lovell, and I would describe the ride as undulating in the afternoon.
Riders: Chris Walters David Smith Des Higgs Louis Hall Steve Swanton Ursula Hallam Riders = 6 Weather: Report: 6 turned up at the start, which was quite good, given the weather situation the previous day and the recent forecast. The forecast for the day was cloudy and dry. We managed a good pace through the Vale to Eynsham and then up to Chalgrove. It was somewhat disconcerting to have crowds lining the route, cheering us on our way up to this point - we managed to share our route with the Ride for Respect which involved two wheels and engines. We just beat them into Eynsham, and the ride became much quieter. Lunch at Chippy was a little earlier than planned, reflecting good progress. The Old Mill Coffee House is a great place to have nibbles, and hugely welcoming to cyclists - do pay them a visit if you're in the area! Refreshed, we restarted in spotting rain, which was not what the forecast said. Down though (and up!) Minster Lovell, we were still making good progress (despite heavier rain) past Brize Norton, so a coffee stop at Bampton was in order, before taking the well-worn route up through Buckland and finally back to Wantage for 4pm, where it seemed to be a little brighter. Steve noted that the pace may have been a little elevated for the last few km... I'm sure it might have been
Distance: 107.30 km (66.67 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1414397
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2617637"
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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 Richard Anstis Robin Tucker Riders = 3 Weather: Report: Lovely weather and long evening, so we went a little further than usual. Up to the Ridgeway the normal way, then right up by Baron Wantage, over the road and the next byway on the left. Then we recrossed the road and did the diagonal that was horrendously muddy when we last rode it in April (I think). It wasn't muddy. But it was stuffed full of nettles for about half a mile! Ouch. We then headed into Farnborough, and headed Southeast, almost down to Catmore before turning north and down Hernehill Down. Then up 'Ice Valley' and back home. Great trails, great ride, great deal of nettle-rash!
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A flattish ride at the easier end of the 2* range to enable those who are confident at 1* to try a 2* ride. We'll head north via Lyford to Fyfield and Netherton, returning via Southmoor and Charney Bassett, a distance of about 18 miles, taken at a steady pace of 12mph.
Riders: Beth Mindham Brian Hipwell Charlotte Styles Fiona Ashby Ian Howland Lorna Swanton Sara Smith Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Val Smith Vyvyan Hazell Riders = 11 Weather: Report: 11 riders on the 2* ride this evening, including 3 trying a 2* for the first time. Conditions started sultry as they had been all day, then just after 7pm the sun broke through and it turned into a lovely bright evening. We followed the route as planned as to start with. After a short stop in Fyfield by the church and manor house, we continued on to Netherton and then turned left to Longworth. Here I decided to continue past the Harris's lane turn to take the next right before Hinton Waldrist down to the A420. For most of the ride we had been climbing very steadily. Now we had the reward of easy pedalling down the long gentle descent to Charney Bassett. We all regrouped at the Goosey turn and as everyone was facing that way, the suggestion was made and accepted to take it and continue down to Goosey. We arrived on the village green to find the meadows, as yet uncut, a sea of yellow flowers and tall grasses. Stunning. After admiring the views for a few minutes, we retraced our steps to the Asti stud turn and returned to Grove via Denchworth. And yes, there was a warning call of "peacock" in Denchworth as we passed the Fox (made a change from pothole!). Back in Grove at 8:30 at the same time as the 3* group, after a lovely mellow ride. Everyone kept together and coped well with the higher pace and longer distance of a 2* ride.
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
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Leader: Louis Hall	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Long, hilly, quick - or any combination! - 35-45km A flattish ride out into the Vale at the easier end of the 3* range to enable those who are confident at 2* to try a 3* ride. We'll go out via Denchworth to Uffington and Longcot and then come back through Shellingford, Hatford and Stanford in the Vale. A bright and breezy 24 miles!
Riders: Adrian West Andy Pixton Barry Gills Chris Walters Des Higgs John Tranter Louis Hall Mark Shepley Maurice Bawden Mila Yearley Richard Preece Steve Joyce Riders = 12 Weather: Report: A dozen riders set out on a lovely evening through the vale. The humidity gradually fell and the sun shone on us gently from Uffington onwards. We made steady progress at 3* guideline of 14 mph. Then, on Park Lane, just as we were starting to crank up the pace, Des's economy pedal broke. Seven of the group went on, while four of us accompanied Des and his one and a half effective legs back to Grove.
Distance: 39.75 km (24.70 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2700331
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2700331"
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1

Written by : Chris Walters Posted on : June 18, 2013 at 11:41 PM

Well done on leading your first ride Louis!

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A ride for Bike Week 2013 A slightly longer 2* this month to make the most of the longest days and hopefully the weather. This ride is 64km, but pretty much flat, save for the sharp rise at Cumnor on the way home. We'll go out via Buckland , Old Shifford and Stanton Harcourt to the tea stop at Eynsham Emporium, returning via Cumnor and Fyfield. Expect to be back at Grove between 5:30 and 6:00.
Riders: Chris Walters David Bridge David Talboys John Tranter Mark Austin Richard Preece Steve Burr Steve Swanton Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Driving over the Ridgeway, it was clear that the weather was not going to be suitable for the ride - high winds, and a view into the Vale that looked like all hell was breaking loose. Undaunted, I sat in my dry car in the car park, clouds bursting all around, convincing myself that nobody would be stupid enough to ride today. Then David turned up, followed by Nicole, who stayed in her nice warm car too, also having seen the view on her drive over from Newbury. With the ride duly cancelled, and Nicole dry and heading back towards Newbury, by 13:05, there were 8 riders raring to go and the rain eased, so under duress, the ride was uncancelled. Sorry Nicole Not much to report in the first half other than being blown along the Great Brook by the wind, and a slight detour to Charney Bassett caused by ride leader inattention. The Eynsham Emporium lived up to its' normal standards, other than the clouds gathering ominously as we sat outside. Setting off again, there were a few spots of rain, but they went as soon as they came. Steve S left us at this point to do a much longer training loop in preparation for next weekend's 200 miler - I did wonder why when the rest of us were tucking into cakes, Steve was wolfing down a more substantial lunch... The hill from Farmoor to Cumnor seemed easier than we were all expecting, so the only remaining drama was to fight the wind back through the Vale - well done to Steve for persevering. What had looked to be a washout turned into a pretty good ride!
Distance: 65.40 km (40.64 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1430254
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2520016"
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Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Our leisurely and sociable 10-mile club rides are 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. Newcomers and returnees to cycling, and accompanied children very welcome.
Riders: Caroline Talboys David Smith Deborah Lyon Steve Burr Tiffany Burr Riders = 5 Weather: Report: What a beautiful evening for a ride. The leader was familiar with about half of the route previously and the other half proved to be just as pleasant. The hills up to Childrey and along the B4507 proved challenging but enjoyable and there was a great view at the top. I hadn’t ridden the old canal path before and thoroughly enjoyed it. Welcome to Tiffany on her first ride with the club.
Distance: 20.40 km (12.68 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1439949
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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 Talboys John Davies Peter Cowan Robin Tucker Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Two new people trying out the off-road ride tonight: Dave and Pete. A lovely evening and once more we set off for the Ridgeway. Unfortunately, the happy mood didn't last long: Dave had a puncture in Charlton. We found the cause quickly enough, a sharp nail-like piece of metal about 3cm long. But Dave had left his kit behind and no-one else had a 29 inch inner tube. So we tried my instant patches - 2 of them because the nail-thing had gone through both sides of the tube. That seemed to work and we set off again. But, half a mile later his tyre was soft again. We weren't sure if that was the patches coming loose or a hole we hadn't found. Dave decided not to chance getting stranded on the Ridgeway, and returned. The remaining 3 of us headed up Goddards Brook, and across to the Ginge descent. The descent was running fast and smoother, though I did have the advantage of full suspension. Lots of insects in the air though - we had to keep our mouths closed! We came back over the 'bridge of doom' and back the 'normal' way.
Distance: 22.53 km (14.00 mi)
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Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This week we will enjoy some of the hidden and beautiful villages to the east of Wantage. From Grove to Wantage on the bike track, through Charlton and then the track to Lockinge and across to Ginge. We will then find a secret route from West to East Hendred, before taking Featherbed Lane to Steventon. Then we cross Cow Common to the Hanneys, Denchworth and home! All the tracks are suitable for all bikes. About 20 miles, with the added bonus of one fun downhill and no discernible uphill. How does that work?
Riders: Brian Hipwell Charlotte Styles Des Higgs Edith Hipwell Fiona Ashby Isabelle Barber John Tranter Mark Austin Maurice Bawden Steve Boreham Steve Joyce Steve Swanton Val Smith Vyvyan Hazell Riders = 14 Weather: Report: A big group, with quite a few challenging themselves with a first 2* ride. Lovely weather - pretty much the perfect evening for a bike ride. The route worked out largely fine, although it could be argued that the track between the Hendreds was less than smooth. Apparently Maurice didn't fall off, he fell with. This is an important distinction... Great company and a good fun ride!
Distance: 30.58 km (19.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/456039988
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1

Written by : Isabelle Posted on : June 25, 2013 at 10:13 PM

Many thanks for a great ride! Perfect for a newbie 2* rider. I don't understand how you manage to plan the with apparently more downhills than uphills - but I'm all in favour! It was a great evening for a fabulous ride - more like that please! See you next week.

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Long, hilly, quick - or any combination! - 35-45km
Riders: Adrian West Andy Cowan Barry Farquhar Barry Gills Chris Walters Janet Charleston Katherine Boyce Ken Pelton Louis Hall Nicole Pethybridge Peter Greenfield Richard Preece Ursula Hallam Riders = 13 Weather: Report: What a perfect night for a ride - warm, still, very few cars and a pretty well-matched group, which was great considering it was 13 of us! Wheels seemed to roll almost effortlessly tonight. No incidents save for the usual unreasonable cut-ins from hurrying drivers. It was going so well we all agreed to add 10% on to the ride and continue on to Pusey, coming back via Charney Bassett. Overall the pace was excellent, a bit above what we expect for 3*, but everyone stayed together really well and we even had a little left for the Denchworth Dash, for which I have to thank Barry for his awesome lead-out Oh, and for the plane-spotters tonight, it was pretty good in this department too... early arrivals at OMH were treated to the throaty roar of a P-51 Mustang circling Grove, we glimpsed 3 Italian Air Force Tornadoes, with their support refuelling tanker, the ever-present Merlin was practising whatever it practises high over the Vale, and back at OMH we had conversation interrupted by a cross between a hovercraft and a paraglider. Why can't the weather be like this for all rides?
Distance: 48.20 km (29.95 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1439810
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Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 4:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Two hundred miles in 24 hours! Following the Oxfordshire county boundary roughly following the old Oxfordshire Cycleway route in clockwise fashion. A challenging, but do-able ride for anyone who rides regularly or enjoys the longer club rides such as the 100 milers and fancies they can do more. The ride will not be fast, nor will it be a race. The challenge however is to complete the route within 24 hours. The ride should be very enjoyable with the usual group ride camaraderie. There will be plenty of planned stops for natural breaks and food, these are planned to make the ride comfortable enough without wasting time and causing our legs to get stiff etc. The planned stops are roughly every 25 - 35 miles: Burford (Cake Stop, riverside car park) 31m Hook Norton (pub meal, Sun Inn) 53m Banbury (McDonalds 24 hour, rest stop) 80m Cherwell Valley Services (Meal) 98m Bicester (shop stop - 24hr Tescos) 124m Panshill Fishery Cafe nr Murcott (breakfast) 138m Stonot (coffee, The Quince Tree cafe) 164m Wallingford (snack/coffee, if needed) 184m The ride starts at 4:00pm from Old Mill Hall in Grove and ends there the following afternoon. Lights will be essential (we'll be riding in the dark for up to 6 hours) plus the usual tools/ tubes for punctures etc. Please make sure you have the right gear/ clothing to do a 24 hour ride, it will be mid summer with only a few hours of darkness but it can get cold at night. We'll expect to see the sunrise (04:51) somewhere around the 115-mile mark (near Marsh Gibbon).
Riders: David Smith David Talboys Pat Hurt Peter Hallowell Richard Preece Robin Tucker Steve Swanton Riders = 7 Weather: Report: At 3:23pm on Sunday, six weary, relieved but elated riders turned into School Lane to be greeted by cheers from Adrian and Ursula . We'd done it. 201 miles in 23 hrs 23 mins. A great ride and a real team effort to get us around. Full report and pictures to come... Thanks to David Smith for the route followed and stats below.
Distance: 323.40 km (200.95 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/1456354
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2762513"
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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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