Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Sat May 3rd 2014

Saturday afternoon ride from Grove	3*

Leader: Louis Hall	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Monthly 60-70km (38 - 45 miles) afternoon ride, with a tea stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Likely to visit distant destinations. Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing likely. It's been a while since I visited Café Bella in Ramsbury, so ... Flat through the vale for the first 15k to Uffington. Then a bit of the spring line road to Ashbury and up the hill. We can enjoy the long descent to Lambourn, before going out via Aldbourne to tea in Ramsbury. After tea we will ride along the Kennet before Stag Hill (not that I've ever seen a stag there, and not much of a hill either). A brief second stretch on Ermin Street before we cross to East Garston and on to Great Shefford. Then it's the steady ride to the top of Manor Hill that the Tour of Britain will take in September before descending into Wantage and back to OMH. We should be back around 5:00 pm.
Riders: Andy Newell Barry Farquhar Chris Walters David Smith Hugo Pile John Tranter Louis Hall Phil Stubbings Richard Saunders Ursula Hallam Riders = 10 Weather: Report: Most of the riders gathering in the sunshine at OMH had ridden there, including some from Newbury. We set off in the sun, which was warm enough for shorts and bare arms for the hardy. By the time we reached our first climb, up from Woolstone to the spring line road, all of us were well warmed up. After pausing to take in a great view of the White Horse we pushed on, regrouping at the top of Ashbury Hill. We spread out a bit on the long run into Lambourn and then again climbing the Baydon road. The descent into Aldbourne was fun and then we pressed on to Cafe Bella, where we took tea in the sunny gardens. Refueled, we whizzed to Chilton Foliat and took Stag Hill in our stride. As we turned off Ermine Street towards the Goodings we bade farewell to the Newbury contingent. En route we stopped to appreciate the bluebells before our last ascent: up the A338 from Shefford. Did I mention clouds? None evident!
Distance: 78.60 km (48.84 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4449837"
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Tue May 6th 2014

Tuesday Evening Off-road Ride	2*

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 stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride.
Riders: David Brown Richard Pethybridge Riders = 2 Report: Only a few of us out tonight, and as we were making good time we put in an extra down and up hill section to bring us out to Red Barn. We returned via Sparsholt Field - a favorite chalky downhill track where many a Strava battle has been fought. After that it was largely road through the villages back to Denchworth with the exception of the bridleway between Childrey & West Challow. For a bit of fun at the end we powered up the railway bridge, posting some pretty decent times for mountain bikers on the Railway bridge Mountain Strava segment.
Distance: 33.15 km (20.60 mi)
Proposed Route: http://www.strava.com/routes/314358"
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Tue May 6th 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Adrian West	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. This week's ride will be at the easier end of the 2* guidelines to encourage riders to try a higher ride than they normally might do. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. A change to the originally published route. In keeping with the easier theme for this week's 2* ride we will head north in a figure-of-eight ride via West Hanney to Southmoor returning via Charney Bassett. Options to cut short if required. I intend on leaving the ride at Denchworth as I may be parking my car at the pub, so if anyone wants an escort back to Grove please let me know an hour or two in advance and I will park at Old Mill Hall and ride back with you. Alternatively you can join different groups of riders setting off from the pub at different times and you can join them back to Grove.
Riders: Adrian West Charlotte Styles Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Michael Tayler Olivia Pile Steve Burr Riders = 7 Report: Welcome to Karen, John and Olivia on their first ride with CTC Wantage. The thunder clapped and the peacocks cried as I set off from the Fox to meet everyone at OMH. This was going to be a very wet ride! We made it a couple of miles and then the heavens opened and then they opened some more! Even with the rain the ride was very enjoyable and the speed was pleasant too, leaning toward the slower end of 2* No mishaps just good conversation and a comedy dismount by Steve toward the end. The Fox at Denchworth was a welcome end from the weather for most of us.
Distance: 24.80 km (15.41 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/138208270
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4638205"
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Tue May 6th 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This week's ride will be at the easier end of the 3* guidelines to encourage riders to try a higher ride than they normally might do. A hilly start to the ride: out to Uffington via East Challow and the Letcombes, returning via Baulking and Park Lane. Hopefully giving those new to 3* evening rides a taste of hills with a chances to stretch our legs on the flat second half of the ride. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride for the monthly social.
Riders: Barry Farquhar Chris Walters David Talboys Hugo Pile Katherine Boyce Mark Austin Nicole Pethybridge Riders = 7 Weather: Report: It was a wet start for those of us parking in Denchworth and riding to Grove, it really was not looking good for a dry ride. With rain, lowering clouds, distant thunder and lightening between 6 and half past, it showed great optimism by those that turned out. And the weather gods were obviously in our favour as we missed all the rain racing around the Vale! There were spectacular views of the heavy showers over in the distance as we descended into Childrey, along with a partial rainbow. Chris coped with a rabbit trying to commit suicide under his wheel between the Letcombes. Mark was a star dealing with my puncture just after Fawley Hill. Once again the new whistles proved useful in alerting the front that there was an issue at the back. With reports of floods around Stanford-in-the-Vale, we avoided Park Lane and returned via Goosey. Those of us that had removed our rear mudguards were wet and muddy but all were glad to have avoided the rain.
Distance: 32.00 km (19.88 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/138410277
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4580713"
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Tue May 6th 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: Steve Boreham	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. Tonight, we head out via Stockham and East Challow, along the bridle track to Childrey, then up to Goosey, and to Denchworth, before heading back to Grove. It can be chilly in the evening shadows along the lanes in Spring, so an extra warm layer and gloves are recommended. There will be an optional stop for a sociable drink with riders from the other groups at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride.
Riders: Joy Arthur Steve Boreham Riders = 2 Weather: Report: A mixture of some rain shortly before, plus other commitments, resulted in a very select little gathering of two of us for tonight's ride. "Debate" at the start as to who would be happy to be sweep! Agreed we would share the role and between us we would handle it! Nice amble round, at, it must be said, a slightly faster than "1 star" pace. Early on, a tractor with dung went past, reminding us in no uncertain terms that we were in the country! Nice trip down hill from Childrey, in fresher air - our good pace allowing a short break, before adjourning at the Fox for a drink, being joined by others from the other rides. Then, for the short hop back to Grove,with two others joining us, making four for the home stretch. Thanks to Joy for an enjoyable ride.
Distance: 19.31 km (12.00 mi)
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Tue May 6th 2014

Tuesday Evening 4* Ride	4*

Leader: Andy Cowan	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This will be a 1.5 - 2 hours ride at a riding pace in excess of 24km/h (15mph). May be hilly. These occasional 4* rides are for athletic riders who can safely ride above the 3* standard. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. A hilly one to start,but no one will be dropped,and I can`t descend so there will be plenty of catch up points if we need them! Briefly,up Manor Hill, on for a few downhill miles until a sharp turn right towards South Fawley where the lumps start but some fantastic views,skirt Lambourn ,head for Wantage,down Hackpen,carry on left through Childrey,cross the main road and a flat few miles to the Fox .25 miles. All welcome don`t be put off by the carbon and lycra
Riders: Andy Cowan Andy Pixton David Smith Frank Schroer Janet Charleston Paul Jarvis Phil Stubbings Ursula Hallam Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Well it poured down at 6pm but Wantage CTC are a hardy crew and 8 4* riders set off to be rewarded by a dry run. Mr Stubbings joined the 3* after the hardest bit up Manor and the Magnificent 7 set of on possibly the best road in the area for a blast until the turn and re-grouping at the South Fawley turn. It was the hilly bit next and the liberal abuse of the leader for the condition of the surface!Still we were rewarded by some great views,every farmyard creature going,a rainbow,bluebells and only one car,what more could you want!? Lambourn next and the long climb to the top of Hackpen where most wizzed down,bearing left,through the village and to the Fox. It was tricky trying to keep together on a hilly route,next time we`ll do a flatter one to give us the chance of a quicker,tighter run out.Hope to see you all on that,thanks for coming and thanks to Paul for sweeping beautifully. We did find the whistle a bit impractical with the hills and unanimously thought a couple of iphones would be a better use of club funds.When`s the AGM?
Distance: 42.50 km (26.41 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/138254842
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Sat May 10th 2014

Saturday Morning Off-road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Goring, Manor Road
Description: The first of our monthly off-road rides for those who like their rides bumpy and (sometimes) muddy. These will be on the second Saturday of each month at 10am from various locations. The first few will work their way up the western edge of the Chilterns. They will be about 20 miles mostly off-road and aim to finish in time for a late lunch (whether together or heading for home). The terrain will be rough, so a mountain-bike in good condition and with knobbly tyres is recommended. See Oxfordshire website for details (link below).
Riders: John Davies Robin Tucker Riders = 2 Weather: Report: Despite the forecast, we managed to avoid any rain - in fact it was mostly sunny, if a bit blowy at times. A very pleasant morning winding through the woods around Woodcote.
Distance: 27.36 km (17.00 mi)
Proposed Route: http://www.ctcoxfordshire.org.uk/rides-and-events/road-ride-goring"
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Tue May 13th 2014

Tuesday Evening Off-road Ride	2*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Control Tower Car Park, Greenham Common
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. This is a special away-day MTB ride around Greenham and Cookham Commons. The start is at the normal time of 1830, but will be at the Control Tower Car Park at Greenham Common (Grid Ref SU499652). The route is about 20 miles and should take 2 hours. Nothing too technical, but some decent single track and one very nice downhill blast.
Riders: David Brown David Smith David Yearley Richard Pethybridge Ursula Hallam Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Well, this turned out to to be rather more eventful than expected. Five riders met at the designated car park, only to find that it closed at 8pm which necessitated a brief transition to one that didn't. Once that was complete the group set off around the edge of Greenham Common, following some nice fast, twisty, muddy singletrack. Unfortunately this proved too technical for Ursula who decided, having struggled womanfully for the first couple of miles, to enjoy herself rather more on the less technical aspects of the Common - hopefully she had a much more enjoyable ride as a result. It is quite possible that David Brown wishes he had joined her, as not long afterwards he suffered a catastrophic gear hanger failure which also damaged his chain. Despite some on-trail maintenance and a transition to a temporary single speed set-up, the chain was just not tight enough and subsequently came off on virtually every bump. Bearing in mind that the incident happened about 1/3 of the way into a Strava section called "Peckmore Copse Best Rooty Bit" this was not ideal, and so after completing the section David too headed off. Judging by his subsequent Strava report the tracks around the edge of the Common proved somewhat less taxing on his new drivetrain and he did at least manage to get some miles in. The remaining three then managed to avoid any further mishaps and enjoyed a super ride around Greenham and Cookham Commons, before dropping down via the East Field Copse bridleway (where the cow parsley made the descent "interesting" to the K&A canal. A final climb back up to the Common from just west of Thatcham and a blast back down the main runway brought us back to the start.
Distance: 25.11 km (15.60 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/140779812
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/users/269496/routes"
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Tue May 13th 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Nicole Pethybridge	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. If you enjoyed your taste of a 2* ride last week join us again. This week's ride remains flat taking in the local lanes. Out through Denchworth, round West Hanney and Charney Bassett to Stanford in the Vale before returning back to Grove. Just under 18 miles at a pleasant pace. Please bring lights - just in case!!
Riders: Andy Belcher Brian Hipwell Charlotte Styles Ian Howland Nicole Pethybridge Susan Holdroyd Riders = 6 Weather: Report: After the threat of rain we all stayed dry to enjoy a meander around the lanes. A good pace by all enjoying a pleasant view of the vale and wonderful cloud formations. 17.9 miles and home at 8pm
Distance: 28.70 km (17.83 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4687535"
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Tue May 13th 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Flat ride tonight out via Steventon and Abingdon, and onwards to Frilford Heath returning via Fyfield.
Riders: Adrian West Chris Walters David Talboys Des Higgs Hugo Pile John Carr Olivia Pile Phil Stubbings Richard Preece Riders = 9 Weather: Report: Nothing much to report really. The showers failed to materialise and the evening turned out to be splendid enough to extend the ride by a little at the end, just because we could. We did have a new rider tonight - welcome John. And well done to Olivia on her first 3* ride - you did really well!
Distance: 42.80 km (26.59 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/140794324
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1821669"
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Tue May 13th 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	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. This evening we'll be heading to Charney Bassett with its picture-postcard green and returning via Lyford, a slightly longer but flat ride of about 12 miles.
Riders: Barbara Lambers Joy Arthur Lorna Swanton Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: 5 riders on the 1* ride this evening. We managed to avoid the scattered showers and enjoyed a leisurely and sociable ride following the route as planned. Steve
Distance: 19.31 km (12.00 mi)
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Sat May 17th 2014

Easy Saturday afternoon ride from Grove	1*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This will be a pleasant amble around the Vale of White Horse. We will head out via Denchworth and Goosey, then to Baulking and Uffington, before looping back via Shellingford and Stanford in the Vale. There will be a shop stop in Stanford for ice creams (or whatever the weather might indicate). We will ride at a gentle pace of around 10 mph or 16km/h and cover 20 miles. No known hills!
Riders: Carin Tranter David Bridge Jane Pearson Janet Hammonds John Tranter Liz Buckle Lorna Swanton Mandy Wassell Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Weather: Report: What a perfect day for a bike ride! Sunny, warm, light breeze, beautiful! A good group of 10 riders set off across the Vale. Lorna is still recovering from illness so wisely turned back at Goosey - great to see her out and riding strongly though. A big welcome back to Liz, after a year or so away. Thanks to everyone for their company - a nice ride.
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/456010998
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Sun May 18th 2014

Blowingstone Audax	3*

Leader: Nick Dunton	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: Uffington Village Hall
Description: CTC Wantage have resurrected the old audax event we used to run many moons ago. Nearly following the original route to Marlborough and back. Start: Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall, Uffington, SN7 7RA [OS 174 GR 306894] – ample car parking available – park on road outside if full. Sunday 18th May 2014. Start time = 9.30 a.m. Light refreshments will be available at the start, cakes and sandwiches at the finish. 106km cycling event starting from Uffington, re-instated after several years off the calendar. Control at Marlborough [numerous refreshment facilities] and four information controls. Organised under Audax UK regulations. All distances are approximate and in km. Information controls require you to write the answer to a simple question on the Brevet Card you will collect at the start. Remember to take a pen! The route is named after the Blowing Stone - a perforated sarsen stone that can be made to ‘sound’ if blown correctly - that is situated close to the route. Blowingstone Hill is one of the major climbs on the route to ascend to the Ridgeway. Uffington White Horse – a ‘real’ Bronze Age artefact rather than a Victorian copy – is also close to the start. The horse is used as a logo on the CTC Wantage cycling jerseys. The halfway point – Marlborough - is a charming town with many opportunities for coffee and lunch. The control café is quite small, so it may be preferable to seek an alternative for refreshment, rather than endure a long wait. There are numerous pubs en route, some of which are highlighted on the route sheet. The route traverses Coate Water Country Park which has a miniature railway that will be running on the day of the ride - http://coatewaterrailway.webs.com/ The route includes many small lanes with uncertain road surfaces that can get muddy and slippery in wet conditions. There are also two short stretches of bridle path. Be prepared for potholes and punctures. Mudguards are advisable - especially in wet conditions - as a courtesy to other riders and our café control. Full details are available. Prior entry is required via the Audax UK website.
Riders: Adrian West Andy Pixton Chris Walters David Smith Hugo Pile John Talbot John Tranter Katherine Boyce Kevin Fairs Louis Hall Mark Shepley Matt Chambers Michael Brooke Nicole Pethybridge Rebecca Broadbent Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Steve Swanton Ursula Hallam Wenfeng Yang Riders = 20 Weather: Report: As I didn't ride the event owing to injury, I feel a fraud writing this report! Sixty-one riders participated in the new-look Blowingstone audax. Fastest home were an impressive father and son combo from Kent who were back in Uffington at 1.40 p.m. – pretty impressive time for a 16-year-old! The majority of riders completed the 106 km course within 5-6 hours. Nineteen CTC Wantage members participated, admittedly some of whom we haven’t seen for a while! Despite the challenging hills, often poor road surfaces, and two diversions off-tarmac, most riders seemed to enjoy the day. We had a great team of helpers at the Uffington HQ and Marlborough control: thanks again guys! The weather was about as perfect for a day's cycling as can be imagined. We have some great photos taken on the Blowingstone and Spring Hills, thanks to John and Chris: no doubt we will see some of these on the website soon. The event was run under Audax UK regulations and it was good to introduce some members to the joys of audaxing. We’re hoping to run the event again next May – come and try it! See all the photos from the event.
Distance: 106.00 km (65.87 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/142156059
CTC Wantage riders before the start Ursula leading the way Riders lined up at the start Spring Hill There is no shame in walking up Spring Hill Marlborough café control The peleton tackles Blowingstone Hugo takes Blowingstone in his stride Steve S still smiling on Blowingstone Completion validation CTC Wantage riders at the finish
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3741761"
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Written by : Mark Shepley

Posted on : May 18, 2014 at 6:58 PM

Awesome day on the Blowingstone Audax, many thanks to all those who organised the day.

Written by : Nicole Pethybridge

Posted on : May 20, 2014 at 9:45 PM

Great ride on a great day. Roll on next year

Tue May 20th 2014

Wallingford Off-road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:45 pm	Start Location: Wallingford Market Place
Description: The 3rd Tuesday of the month, so it is a Wallingford ride led by Dan Hart. Contact him through Rides on Air in Wallingford if necessary 01491 836289. Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and 'get-you-home' lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders. 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: Riders = 0 Report: No known Wantage riders on this one.
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Tue May 20th 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Tonight we'll head eastwards via NCN route 544 through Betterton to East Hendred then on by Featherbed Lane to Steventon. We'll have a short rest by the Causeway before heading back across Cow Common to the Hanneys and home via Denchworth. A distance of about 20 miles.
Riders: Andy Belcher Charlotte Styles Ian Howland John Stamp Michael Tayler Steve Joyce Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Setting off slightly later than the other groups, we followed the 1* group out through Charlton, eventually catching them by the start of NCN544. They then overtook us while we were admiring Best Mate in Lockinge. However, the yo-yoing then ended when they took a wrong turn (oops)... My concerns that the afternoon's rain might have affected conditions on the Ginge farm track proved unfounded - it was as dry as a bone. We were soon enjoying the descent into East Hendred. To keep everyone on their toes, I took a detour around some of the back lanes of this pretty village, before resuming the 'normal' route along the busier A417 and Featherbed Lane. After a fast descent of Steventon hill, we turned left into the Causeway and continued to the school where we stopped for a 5-minute breather. We made good time back across Cow Common and with lightening skies to the West, took the longer route home through the Hanneys and Denchworth. Although we hadn't had any sunshine, the ride remained dry and the verges and hedgerows are just about at their verdant peak. Thanks everyone for a mellow ride.
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
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Tue May 20th 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Adrian West	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Hopefully an interesting route tonight with a seldom ridden road and some more familiar roads taken from a less familiar direction. Not hilly, but there are some gradients. Out from OMH to Charney Bassett, Gainfield, Buckland, just over a kilometer of A420 (Please have good lights) then a nice pretty descent down quiet Barcote and Sandy lanes to Hatford - Something we don't do very often. From Hatford we ride to Fernham, Baulking, Goosey, Denchworth - Denchworth Dash for those who are up for it on the way back to Grove. Just short of 40km
Riders: Adrian West Barry Farquhar Chris Walters David Ryan David Talboys Des Higgs Janet Charleston John Talbot Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Ken Pelton Mark Austin Phil Stubbings Richard Pethybridge Ursula Hallam Riders = 15 Weather: Report: The roads dried nicely and the 15 strong group had a very pleasant ride at an above average pace for a 3* Tuesday evening. A couple of spirited sprints on the Baulking road and Denchworth Dash and no real hills. No problems apart from the ride leader forgetting part of the route which eventually turned out better than planned. A great Tuesday ride with great company
Distance: 38.50 km (23.92 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/143608416
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4731297"
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Tue May 20th 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

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.
Riders: Barbara Lambers David Smith Joy Arthur Susan Fletcher Watts Riders = 4 Weather: Report: A very enjoyable ride to Ardington via the cycletrack to Lockinge. We overtook the 2* group at the statue of Best Mate and after a wrong turn were soon back on track to the short, sharp, climb up to good views and down to Ardington. We were enjoying it so much we went back round a slightly different loop before heading down past Lains Barn and back to Grove. Thanks to everyone for coming out this evening.
Distance: 18.10 km (11.25 mi)
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Sat May 24th 2014

Saturday afternoon ride from Grove	2*

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Monthly 45-55km (30 - 40 miles) afternoon ride, with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). This one will be short (45km) but rather hilly for a 2*, with the tea stop at the excellent Saddleback Farm Shop. We will take the hills gently, stopping at the top to regroup and catch our breaths / rest the legs. Of course, climbing always means some nice descents too... Out up Court Hill before taking a meandering route around the villages on the south of the Ridgeway, including Chaddleworth, Leckhampstead and Peasemore before taking tea and then back to Grove down Chain Hill.
Riders: Chris Walters David Talboys Jan McCabe Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Mark Austin Rachel Bennett Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 10 Weather: Report: Anyone who makes decisions on whether to do an afternoon ride based on the mornings' weather would have missed out today (sort of). The skies did look rather ominous as a good group of 10 set out, with the ride leader promising dryness up to the tea stop (and trying to extort tea if proven correct). An early drama occurred at Letcombe, where a "not quite unclipping" moment provided some entertainment before we ascended Court Hill. After a bit of huffing and puffing we regrouped and then had to pedal the descent down to Wooley, as the wind was rather stiff in opposition. The next climb over towards Brightwalton yielded great views and a few red faces. The group was starting to get its' rhythm now and with less sever hills we kept together well through Chaddleworth, Lechkampstead and some new lanes around Peasemore. A late call from the ride leader (sorry) saw another unclipping moment unfold... Skies were darkening, and we made it to the tea stop nice and dry. Excellent cakes and very friendly staff made for a very relaxed stop while the threatened rain did finally arrive, so it was a damp descent back down Chain Hill into Wantage. Well done to everyone, but especially Val and Steve B, who worked really hard and rode well.
Distance: 44.70 km (27.78 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/145010114
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4635406"
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Tue May 27th 2014

Tuesday Evening Off-road Ride	2*

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 Yearley Robin Tucker Riders = 2 Weather: Report: A drizzly night, and only 2 of us on the ride. (All the other rides were well down on numbers too) We went up Crab Hill and Goddards Brook. We came back down to Betterton and by Lains Barn. The descent was great. Betterton is one of the more waterproof routes off the Ridgeway, but it was still slightly slippery in the wet. But we had great fun holding our line and our nerve on the way down!
Distance: 20.92 km (13.00 mi)
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Tue May 27th 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. Thought we would cross the A417 and venture to Fernham before returning via Baulking and Goosey. Just under 22 miles, with very little elevation.
Riders: Andy Belcher Charlotte Styles Katherine Boyce Val Smith Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Congratulations to those that braved such a miserable evening to go for a ride. But as Charlotte said, better than staying indoors! On the road between Charney and Gainfield we observed an aerial fight between a heron and a lapwing. The lapwing saw off the heron despite the disparity in size. Shortly after the drizzle became a downpour before reverting back to a drizzle. This was the weather pattern throughout the ride. But no one complained and a good pace kept up for the duration. A great group to ride with in trying conditions. Thanks for your company. I've included the strava link but managed to not set the timer running from the start, so it's not all there 😳
Distance: 33.79 km (21.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/146313618
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4390734"
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Tue May 27th 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: "The Lumpy One" Too many flat rides, so it must be time to tackles some hills. Out up Chain Hill, the swoop down to West Ilsley followed by a climb and drop over to Lilley, the climb to Brightwalton and then the climb over Wooley, and finally for dessert, the climb back up the A338. Simples. 36 km and 460m of climbing.
Riders: Chris Walters David Talboys Fiona Marshall Hugo Pile John Talbot Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Nicole Pethybridge Rachel Bennett Riders = 9 Weather: Report: It was wet. It was hilly. I'm not sure there are any other words to say here. Other than that everyone rode very well in pretty appalling conditions. Thanks to Nicole for sweeping tonight - not an easy job given the conditions. And the ride up the A338 into the wind and into the rain to finsh off with was "character building". Loved every minute of it.
Distance: 39.30 km (24.42 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/146302564
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4780652"
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Tue May 27th 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Change of plan due to the rain over the weekend - we'll do the Hanney Explorer later in the summer. Instead, we'll head out and back to Garford; out via West Hanney and back via Lyford. An essentially flat route of about 14 miles. 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.
Riders: Barbara Lambers Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 3 Weather: Report: Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Had I not been leading, I would probably not have ventured out this evening with rain still in the air after a shower at 6. But on reaching the car park there were over 20 cyclists evidently prepared to defy the weather including 2 takers for the 1* ride. Off we set in the drizzle, and because it was wet, we agreed not to stop either in Denchworth or at Lyford. However, the rain was steadily getting heavier and as we approached the cross-roads on the Hanney-Southmoor road, we decided to cut the ride short and head south towards West Hanney. And of course Hanney has a pub... and shelter.... Three pints and a packet of crisps (between the 3 of us) later, we realised we’d better head back. It was still raining, and with Barbara wanting to ride slightly faster than 1* pace, we rode back via Denchworth without a break at 2* pace, arriving back in Grove just as Katherine was putting her bike in the car. (Don’t mention the pub...) we’ve been miles said Barbara..., but I gave the game away. With smiles all around, we went our separate ways. Thanks to Barbara and Steve for a thoroughly enjoyable ride – we all agreed it had been worth venturing out. Steve S
Distance: 14.48 km (9.00 mi)
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Tue May 27th 2014

Tuesday Evening 4* Ride	4*

Leader: Andy Cowan	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This will be a 1.5 - 2 hours ride at a riding pace in excess of 24km/h (15mph). May be hilly. These occasional 4* rides are for athletic riders who can safely ride above the 3* standard. I ll post the exact(ish) route on Monday but we'll go for a flat one to Oxford with the aim of a 16-17mph average, so give it some oil, pump 'em up and shave those legs. It goes without saying no-one will get dropped, please bring at least a rear light and I look forward to seeing as many of you as poss on Tuesday. Apologies for the late route, no phone line/internet, sacre bleu! Anyway what we loose on the route we gain on a new Tuesday night destination. Straight forward route into Oxford, out past E Hanney, Frilford, Cumnor into the city along the Botley Rd, bit of a cicuit around the centre and straight back on the reverse route, only climbing is Cumnor Hill, time permitting we'll turn off through the Hanneys and back through Denchworth. Approx 31 miles in the evening sunshine !
Riders: Andy Cowan Barry Farquhar Geoff Covey Louis Hall Mark Shepley Paul Jarvis Riders = 6 Weather: Report: We picked up Mark and 6 of us ploughed into Oxford in the pouring rain, but with a top lead-out man,no other than 2011 Rider of the Year Mr Geoff Covey, manfully assisted by Barry we made good time, keeping together nicely. Oxford was busier than normal which dropped our average time a fair bit (any excuse) and we saw at first hand the benefit of riding a tight 6th wheel as Mr Jarvis defying all odds and form blasted up Cumnor dropping a couple on the way! Well we recovered from the shock and benefited from a good tail wind back to Frilford where we were ahead of schedule and detoured back through Denchworth. The sprint was a one man affair, Paul taking the honours and we were safely back. Thanks to Barry and Mark for joining us and Louis gets my vote for the fittest 59 year old in town! An enjoyable Tuesday night blast, see you all on the next one. Av speed 17.7mph.
Distance: 56.17 km (34.90 mi)
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Written by : Mark Shepley

Posted on : May 27, 2014 at 9:31 PM

Well that was a tad wet! Thanks for allowing me to meet up nr Williams roundabout - almost made it to Grove!

Written by : Paul

Posted on : May 28, 2014 at 8:52 PM

As sweep my right full place was at the back ! Andy forgot to mention he was well and truly dropped up Cumnor hill ! . A good ride in bad weather conditions made worse for those who wear glass and couldn't see for most of the ride ! Sweep

Sat May 31st 2014

Bike Maintenance Training

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: OK - so you ride your bike with the club. But do you know how to keep it running sweetly? Do you know your bottom bracket from your top gear? With very simple tools that you probably already carry in your saddlebag, we will demystify simple bike maintenance and give you the confidence to tackle the regular jobs and save time and money. Bring your bike and your saddlebag tools! The session will cover cleaning, safety checks, removing wheels/replacing inner tubes, drive train maintenance, brake and gear setup, replacement of cables and headset checking. Sign up for the 13:00 - 15:00 session here Sign up for the 15:00 - 17:00 session here
Riders: Andy Pixton Chris Walters Hugo Pile John Stamp Jon Townsin Katherine Boyce Olivia Pile Rachel Bennett Richard Preece Susan Holdroyd Riders = 10 Report: We came, we wrenched, we got dirty hands.
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Ride Filter

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

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