Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Tue Jul 1st 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 required.
Riders: Alex Pethybridge David Brown David Yearley Riders = 3 Weather: Report: Arms and legs buzzing from nettles, brambles and grit. Mouth and nose filled with flys. All signs of a good ride. Our route took us out west via the canal, then the Letcombes, up Gramps hill and across the Ridgeway where we met the 2* road ride at the top of Hackpen Hill. We then set ourselves a little challenge to blast past the 2, cut through an off-roaded wooded track and re-join the road before the road riders caught up with us - it was close, but we just about made it. Then it was down Seven Barrows, where overgrowing trees, punctures and deep ruts slowed us considerably, but we still managed to make it down to the road just in front of the 2 ride again .
Distance: 28.97 km (18.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/160486708
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Tue Jul 1st 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Andy Pixton	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. (Well a bit hilly) Almost to Lambourn and back. Out to Wantage along the Denchworth Road, then along the Ickleton Road to Childrey crossroads. Left and up Hackpen Hill, then down towards Lambourn. Just before the village, sharp right, back up to The Ridgeway, then down Blowingstone Hill to Kingston Lisle, and down again to Baulking Lane. Then home to Grove, via Goosey and Denchworth. Lots of downhill and non-hilly bits.
Riders: Andy Belcher Andy Pixton Charlotte Styles Des Higgs Ian Howland John Stamp Steve Joyce Riders = 7 Weather: Report: A perfect evening for taking in the views of The Downs and The Thames Valley. A small group, we cheerily took on the climbs and descents at a leisurely pace. So leisurely we were chased down the hill from Sparsholt Firs by the off-road ride; our first of three encounters with them. The gentle climb back up to The Ridgeway didn't seem to phase anyone, and everyone managed to stop at the bottom of Blowingstone Hill. Once back in the vale, the temperature started to drop a little, so a chilly ride leader tried to up the pace a little. The group would not be coaxed, nor was there any Denchworth Dash, but Hey Ho, it wasn't a race, after all. Thanks to all who turned out, and to Des for sweeping; again!
Distance: 35.50 km (22.06 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5155031"
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Tue Jul 1st 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	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. Thought we'd pop out to Faringdon tonight, taking the lumpier route out and the flat one back. Plenty of warm up for the Denchworth Dash!
Riders: Adrian West Barry Farquhar Bryan Charleston Chris Walters Dave Martin David Smith David Talboys Janet Charleston Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Louis Hall Mark Austin Nicole Pethybridge Peter Greenfield Richard Preece Ursula Hallam Riders = 17 Weather: Report: We were way behind the other groups leaving, wanted to give Nicole a fighting chance of catching up after she'd sorted a puncture. Has to be a record, getting a puncture before the briefing . We then took up the challenge of finding the 2* group, accomplished just beyond Windmill Hill. A slight pause for a chain replacement before sweeping through Kingston Lisle and on to Faringdon. We picked up Nicole before the group started to gather for the Denchworth dash. And what an epic dash it was. Those giving it a miss could only look on in awe as the group looked record breaking. All within the bounds of a 3* ride of course! Thanks to Louis for ensuring no one was lost. Great group to ride with.
Distance: 40.00 km (24.85 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/160517311
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5093255"
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Tue Jul 1st 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: Steve Boreham	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1 - 1.5 hours rides at a riding pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph). Not likely to be hilly. Tonight, out via Charlton, then Route 44 to Lockinge, Ginge, and West Hendred, before heading back via Ardington and past Lains Barn Distance of about 12 miles
Riders: Barbara Lambers Brian Hipwell Edith Hipwell Kerry Tucker Michael Tayler Sarah Dore Steve Boreham Steve Burr Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Wondered at first how many were "one star" ing. Number mounted to six then I put my list away and it swelled to eight!. Comparatively hilly ride was planned tonight. Set out via Wantage at a gentle pace, using the ride leaders' surprise cut through the estate. Plan was originally to end up at West Hendred, but along Route 44, was suggested, and agreed, that we just cut down directly to Ardington, therefore cutting out the longest hill. This, we did, enjoying the nice views before descending to Ardington. Pace a but varied due to the hills, but you go down as well as up in this game and we enjoyed a couple of nice descents. Seems we were the first group back, so would like to think we were speedy(!) Very enjoyable ride on what was a perfect evening, with glorious sunshine.
Distance: 16.09 km (10.00 mi)
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Sat Jul 5th 2014

Saturday afternoon ride from Grove	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Time for another Oxford special! This ride will combine some interesting routing into and around the centre of Oxford with a tea stop in a beautiful city centre church and a nice testing hill climb in the second half. What's not to like?! We head out via Hanney and Southmoor to Appleton and Cumnor. Down Cumnor Hill to Botley, then a cunning cut through to the lovely road around the top of Port Meadow to Wolvercote. Then into town via Woodstock Road and Jericho. Pick up some of the best coffee and cakes in Oxford at Cafe Loco before consuming them in the comfort of the beautiful St Aldates church. Then out of town south to Kennington, across towards Sunningwell and the big test of the day - the mighty climb of Bayworth Lane up to Boars Hill. Rewarded with great views back to the dreaming spires and an equally big descent to Wootton. Back through the Vale via Tubney, Fyfield and Charney Bassett. 45 miles at a good pace - 13mph or so.
Riders: Barry Gills Chris Walters John Tranter Mark Austin Martin Purling Nicole Pethybridge Richard Pethybridge Richard Preece Richard Saunders Riders = 9 Weather: Report: The weather was definitely not encouraging at the start. Dark clouds surrounded us as we set off. But it got better! All went according to plan and we arrived in Oxford on schedule. However, it took us a while to navigate through the tourists and the general melee to our tea stop at St Aldates. Time was pressing slightly as we continued though Kennington to Sunningwell. Therefore we took the slightly sad decision to cancel the hill climbing aspect of the ride and just head for home. Thanks to all those who fought off the multiple distractions of Le Tour de Yorkshire, the tennis and the Silverstone Grand Prix practice sessions (not to mention the dodgy weather) to join the ride. It was fun!
Distance: 70.81 km (44.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/users/310968/activities
Proposed Route: http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/455918980"
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Sun Jul 6th 2014

Betjeman Ride	1*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: The Betjeman Park, Wantage
Description: This is a special ride organised in collaboration with the Trustees of the Betjeman Park as part of the Wantage Summer Festival. No discernible hills (unless you count the Denchworth railway bridge, and frankly you shouldn't!). A leisurely pace of around 10mph. Honestly - anyone who can ride a bike without falling off will be able to do this ride! 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 Cowan Brian Hipwell Charlotte Styles John Tranter John Vandore Stan Cowan Val Smith Riders = 7 Weather: Report: A lovely afternoon for a leisurely ride out to Denchworth and back. Thanks to John Vandore for organising the event from the point of view of Betjeman Park. We had three brand new riders with us, including Freddie aged 8. Stan Cowan was our other youngster. Both managed the ride extremely well. All went according to plan, with a minor glitch as we arrived at Uffington church ahead of schedule, causing a bit of a rush for the caterers to set up for us. The cake and tea made that well worth it. Thanks to all - a very pleasant ride!
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
Proposed Route: http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/456047738"
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Tue Jul 8th 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 Brown David Yearley John Davies Riders = 3 Report:
Distance: 25.00 km (15.53 mi)
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Tue Jul 8th 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Heading for the secret villages to the east of Wantage tonight. Out of Grove past Williams, up and over Lains Barn hill and down the other side to Ginge. Then through Lockinge and the Ardington Estate to West Hendred and (weather permitting) a cunning cut through to East Hendred. Then Featherbed Lane and a nice swoop down Steventon Hill to Steventon. Back over Cow Common to Hanney and then familiar roads home via Denchworth. 21 miles at a nice steady pace of around 12mph.
Riders: Barbara Lambers Charlotte Styles Chas Boshell Des Higgs Ian Howland John Tranter Jon Townsin Steve Boreham Steve Joyce Riders = 9 Weather: Report: What a wet night! It looked pretty dicey when we set of, with black clouds all around, and I'm afraid your leader's optimistic assessment of the prevailing wind direction proved to be very much over-optimistic. If anything, the rain cloud appeared to be actively following the ride along! At one particularly saturated moment near Ardington we almost turned back, but then there was a brief interlude and we decided to plough on regardless. The ride proceeded on the planned route, but with regular soakings. However, good fun was (I think) had by all. Welcome to Chas on his first ride with us. Between Hanney and Denchworth, your leader had to stop the ride for a fairly life changing phone call. That was unexpected! Get in touch if you want to know the cryptic secret!
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
Proposed Route: http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/459534624"
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Tue Jul 8th 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A little longer than normal and lumpy in places, we will head out to Wantage and up Manor Road and take the left at Woolley towards and through Brightwalton to cross the B4494 and take the short sharp hill to Peasemore. From there we head via Stanmore, the Ilsleys and Farnbrough to Chain Hill and the return to Grove. I will be setting off promptly at 18:30 due to the length of the ride.
Riders: Andy Pixton David Smith David Talboys Jason Jones Karen Froud Katherine Boyce Louis Hall Peter Cowan Peter Greenfield Phil Stubbings Rachel Bennett Ursula Hallam Riders = 12 Weather: Report: Well, that was fun wasn't it! Numbers across all rides seemed reduced for some reason tonight, maybe the heavy showers about 18:00 had something to do with it. In the end 11 3* riders set of with increasing sunshine and warmth towards Wantage and Manor Hill. We made great time up Manor Hill and all enjoyed the descent to the Cross at the turn to Brightwalton where we all regrouped again. After the drop down to and ascent up from the cross roads before Brightwalton the heavens opened and the group took shelter under several trees. As we all stood waiting for the rain to stop Pete Cowan came up the hill behind us to meet up with the rest of the group. He mentioned that there was a large bus shelter in the village and half of us decided to head for that, but I'm not sure it was a great idea as the rain then turned to hail! We all eventually regrouped at the bus shelter as the rain stopped and the sky started to lighten. After some debate, OK not much debate, we decided to call it a ride and head directly back to Chain Hill and Grove as people were wet and cold. Initially this didn't seem like a good choice as the weather continued to improve, but as we reached the B4494 and headed for Chain Hill the heavens opened again and a strong headwind came out of the North, I'm sure I heard someone say winters coming! We made it to the top of Chain Hill and then most of us had a slow and cautious descent down through the rivers of white chalk wash coming of the fields. Most of the group went their separate ways home from the bottom of Chain Hill and a small group of 3 returned together to Grove. Thanks to Louis for being an excellent sweep and to everybody for braving the elements and giving it a go! I will put the full route on again at some point, possibly during a drought.
Distance: 29.50 km (18.33 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/2968904
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5204428"
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Tue Jul 8th 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: John Stamp	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This week's ride is generally on the flat, about 14 miles but does include over 1 mile on bridle path. Riding pace 8 - 10mph. The route is Grove to Denchworth, then Charney Bassett, out on the Buckland Rd and take the bridle path to Pusey. Then along the B4508 back to Buckland Rd and return to Charney Bassett. The return to Denchworth will be via Lyford. Aim to be back in Grove for 8.30.
Riders: Carin Tranter John Stamp Val Smith Riders = 3 Report: There were black heavy clouds except in the direction the 1* ride took and for most of the ride we enjoyed sunshine & good views. However it did turn 'wet' on the Lyford leg. The route needed modifications as the farmer had padlocked a gate across the track; but undeterred another off road route was found to bye pass the closed off section of track. Arrived back at 8.20, average speed 9.2mph & apparently 8 g of fat was burnt off.
Distance: 23.34 km (14.50 mi)
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Sat Jul 12th 2014

Saturday morning off-road ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Crowmarsh Gifford C of E Primary School
Description: Off-road ride of about 20 miles at a moderate pace. Rides for a well-maintained mountain bike with knobbly tyres rather than a tourer. See the CTC Oxfordshire website for details (link below).
Riders: Barry Gills Catherine Wainwright David Brown Louis Hall Nick Stokell Robin Tucker Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Eight of us riding on the edge of the Chilterns, on a warm summer's day. (In addition to those listed: James Baker and Patrick Hardiman). We set off first along Grim's Ditch - marvelling once more about the prescience of the Vikings in building a wonderful piece of singletrack. From there the ride was defined by the slope on the western edge of the Chilterns, with three big ups three big downs joined up by various bits linking them together: * Up at Hailey * Down to Well Place (Being surprised to find a stream had appeared in the track. And having a look at Rowan Atikinson's new house now under construction) * Up on the road from Well Place and over to Checkendon * Down at Hammond's Farm. Steep and rocky - fun or nerve-wracking! * Up past Brazier's Common, then left and north by road to… * Down through Mongewell Woods Then back along Grim's Ditch, now knowing what to expect. Excellent riding, excellent weather, excellent company.
Distance: 28.32 km (17.60 mi)
Proposed Route: http://www.ctcoxfordshire.org.uk/rides-and-events"
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Sat Jul 12th 2014

CTC Oxfordshire Pot Luck Supper

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 7:00 pm	Start Location: Robin and Kerry's in Steventon
Description: Come along for a sociable evening with members from all the local CTC groups; families welcome. Please bring a bottle and a dish for the pot-luck buffet - savoury, salad or sweet to cater for 4 people per person coming. (If you think you'll be late, please bring a sweet.) Please let Robin and Kerry know you are coming by Thursday 10 July.
Riders: Andy Belcher Barbara Lambers Ben Paine Brian Hipwell Carin Tranter David Bridge David Paine David Yearley Edith Hipwell Ellie Paine James Dawton John Stamp John Tranter Kerry Tucker Lorna Swanton Mandy Wassell Margaret Stamp Mila Yearley Nick Tucker Robin Tucker Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 22 Report: The gazebo has landed! It didn't rain, but CTC Oxfordshire's new acquisition ensured that all was prepared in case it had. Must admit, I hadn't expected it to be quite that big! Many thanks to Kerry and Robin for hosting a most enjoyable evening. 25 members of the club and their families came along, including James and Rosey from Oxford. The pot luck supper worked out very well and in particular, the desserts were lovely - thanks to all of the cooks.
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Sun Jul 13th 2014

Barbury Bash	3*

Leader: Nick Dunton	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: Milton
Description: For anyone who enjoyed the Blowingstone audax and wants to try another, Didcot Phoenix is running the Barbury Bash on the above date. Start is in Milton. Course is similar to Blowingstone [i.e. very hilly!], crossing the Vale to ascend to Barbury Castle, then through Ogbourne St George, Great Shefford, Farnborough and West Ilsley, finishing with an adrenalin-rich 400m down the A34! There are also 160 and 200km rides which start earlier [warning – these are very tough!]. Pre-entry required through the AUK website.
Riders: Andy Pixton David Smith Hugo Pile Katherine Boyce Nick Dunton Ursula Hallam Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Several CTC Wantage riders tackled the 100km version of this ride (Nick riding on Saturday as he was manning one of the controls on Sunday). Bryan Charleston rode the 160km version and John Talbot rode the 200km version.
Distance: 107.50 km (66.80 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/478561"
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1

Written by : Katherine Boyce

Posted on : July 14, 2014 at 7:10 PM

Silly question but why aren't you and Brian credited with your rides?

Tue Jul 15th 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.
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Tue Jul 15th 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Glen Savegar	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. A personal favourite short ride, containing a little of everything the vale has to offer in just over 18 miles. Outline- OMH, Denchworth, Goosey, Kingston Lisle, Westcot, Sparsholt, Childrey, Letcombes, Wantage, OMH. A couple of climbs, but taken at a comfortable pace to suit all with time to enjoy the surroundings. Distance- 18.4 miles (29.7 km)
Riders: Andy Belcher Charlotte Styles Emma Gilbert Glen Savegar Ian Howland Steve Joyce Riders = 6 Weather: Report: A "textbook" summers evening saw 6 of us head off around the vale. The temperature had dropped nicely to make for a very comfortable ride, with bags of time to enjoy the surroundings. Even the Buzzard perched high up on the telegraph pole as we approached Kingston Lisle, seemed happy to casually observe us as we passed by. Climbing now done, we were rewarded with a gentle descent of Holbourne Hill and a zig zag through the Letcombes, with a very noticeable drop in temperature passing the cooling waters of Letcombe Bassett watercress beds. Thanks everyone! Glen S
Distance: 29.70 km (18.45 mi)
The Summit, Kingston Lisle.
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Tue Jul 15th 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Time for a flat and relatively fast 3* ride, I am thinking. This is an extended version of a loop we used for the winter night rides. Out through Denchworth and Hanney, across to Garford, a brief section of main road A338 / A415 before cutting across to Fyfield. Back road through Hinton Waldrist to Pusey, Stanford-in-the-Vale, then Park Lane to Denchworth and home.
Riders: Alex Pethybridge Andy Pixton Barry Gills Chris Walters David Talboys David Yearley Des Higgs Jane John Janet Charleston John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Mark Shepley Nicole Pethybridge Olivia Pile Richard Pethybridge Richard Preece Ursula Hallam Riders = 19 Weather: Report: Wow! This may have been the most perfect summer evening ever. Many of us were commenting that it felt like we were riding on air - a remarkably effortless 3* experience. A large group which kept together well and also split into smaller groups for the occasional A road sections. Great ride, great company - thanks to everyone for coming out.
Distance: 40.23 km (25.00 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/3014055
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5295587"
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Tue Jul 15th 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: The Hanney Explorer. Tonight we'll head out to the villages of West and East Hanney to investigate some of their hidden corners. On the way back we'll tackle some rougher but easy sections of bridleway. On the second section between West Hanney and Denchworth, we'll stop to take in a wonderful panorama of the Vale from what seems like the middle of nowhere. Apart from the Denchworth road railway bridge, no substantial ups or downs; a round trip of about 12 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: Alvaro Rey Barbara Lambers Brian Hipwell Carin Tranter Edith Hipwell Ellie Paine John Stamp Joy Arthur Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Weather: Report: What a wonderful summer's evening to be on the bike. The sunshine brought out 10 riders - our largest 1*group of the season. We made steady progress on the road as far as East Hanney where we stopped for a rest by Dandridge's Mill and to take a look at the Archimedean screw generator (well worth a look if you are passing that way). Then on through Hanney passing pretty cottages and then left down Hall's Lane, passing the manor house to reach Lower Mill. Here started the first of our two stretches of off-road. Edith elected to give this a miss and retraced her steps to meet us at the other end, while the remainder gamely followed. Starting off as a broad track, the bridleway gradually narrowed into a stretch of well-grown single-track; slightly lumpy in places, but otherwise straightforward. I had said in my briefing that I had found no stinging nettles growing over the track when cycling it the day before. But funny how many more there seemed when cycling in the other direction... Everyone made it through unscathed. After regrouping we rejoined the road and continued on to West Hanney to take the second track across to Denchworth. This has really smoothed out over the last year; the rubble that was put down a few years ago has become completely absorbed into the surface and only at the Denchworth end does the surface become more bumpy . We stopped at the top of the rise 2/3rds of the way across and took our time to enjoy the views. This really is one of my favourite spots in the vale . We eventually continued on to the road and returned back to Grove in the late evening sunshine. One of those rides to store in the memory. I think everyone enjoyed it and it was a pleasure to lead. Thanks everyone.
Distance: 19.31 km (12.00 mi)
10-mile club riders at Hanney Lower Mill, July 2014 On the wide track from West Hanney to Denchworth, July 2014
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Tue Jul 15th 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. Nice and flat through Denchworth,Fernham and Shrivenham to warm up before the sharp climb up Ashbury Hill and the fast drop to Lambourn where we`ll wait for me; climb out towards the Hackpen decent,wait for me again,Sparsholt and home. We`ll take it easy,share the lead and try to keep together as much as possible aiming at an av.speed of 16.5/17 mph.Come along ,no-one will be dropped of course.About 33 miles.
Riders: Andy Cowan Bryan Charleston David Smith Frank Schroer Geoff Covey John Talbot Louis Hall Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Peter Greenfield Phil Stubbings Riders = 11 Weather: Report: We had the best 4* turnout so far with 11 setting off. There was a confidence wobble with a few at the start when Geoff, Frank, Bryan and Peter Cowan turned up but after a few miles riding together at a good strong pace we were all fine, conditions were perfect, the sun was shining and we had 4 lead out men, happy days. We did do a little experiment with the "leader" at the back and with so many experienced riders this was fine and probably the reason we averaged 18.3 mph. Fernham and Shrivenham were soon dispatched and although we had a traffic light induced standing start at Ashbury Hill no-one had any problems. The descent into Lambourn where we regrouped long enough for Mr Jarvis to puncture, was quick. Half hadn't realised and headed off out but it was great to see that everyone had waited at the bottom of Hackpen. All we had to do then was blast back to Grove. Thanks to everyone for coming, John "the new diesel" Talbot for keeping count and a warm 4* welcome to Bryan and Peter. Mssrs Walters, Jones, Talboys and Ms Boyce next time please!
Distance: 58.70 km (36.47 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/166394960
The 4* peloton Climbing Ashbury Hill Descending towards Lambourn Andy wonders why Paul hasn't taken the wheel off first
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Sat Jul 19th 2014

Easy Saturday afternoon ride from Grove	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Monthly 16-32km (10-20 miles) family and social afternoon rides, usually with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph). Occasional short or gentle climbs. Update 11:30am: there appears to be a good chance that the storms will miss us, so planning to go ahead with a ride. Given the forecast for storms on Saturday, we'll take a weather check in the morning about whether to go ahead with a ride. Please keep an eye on the website and give me a ring or drop me an email at steveswanton@easynet.co.uk if you are thinking of coming. Plan A, is to head northwards to Duxford, the lowest ford on the Thames, where we'll stop for a paddle. There is a short climb back into the Vale after visiting the ford, but this is on a very quiet road (cul de sac) which everyone can take at their own pace. We'll stop for a picnic tea either at the ford or by the church in Hinton Waldrist. Please bring something to sit on as the ground is likely to be wet, and refreshments. Round trip about 20 miles. If weather is damp or looking dodgy, we will stay closer to Grove and improvise a route on the day.
Riders: Andy Belcher Andy Cowan Barbara Lambers David Paine John Stamp Judith Agnew Kevin Hazell Laura Stow Mandy Wassell Phil Jeffery Stan Cowan Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Vyvyan Hazell Riders = 14 Weather: Report: Theme of this month's easy Saturday ride - water and lots of it!
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
The ford on the Thames at Duxford Team Cowan went for a paddle None of us braved cycling Dux-ford Here comes the rain! Picnic stop at Hinton Waldrist , July 2014 Storm over, the sun came out, Hinton Waldrist, July 2014 Approaching flash flooding on Lamb Lane, July 2014 Stan and Andy leading the group through Lyford
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Sun Jul 20th 2014

Wye and Severn	3*

Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: Gloucester
Description: Monthly 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. urple">* Can you let me know by email or text if you are planning to ride so I have an estimate of numbers please. Thanks. * An away day for this month's touring ride. Starting from Gloucester exploring the Wye and Severn valleys including the Forest of Dean, Tintern Abbey and a crossing of the iconic Severn Bridge. Parking will be at Castlemeads Car Park (£2 all day). Please note that Google has an error with the location of this car park if you search for it. It's actually on the A430 near the docks (https://goo.gl/maps/WcuWP. We will head westwards adjacent to the A40 and then for a short distance on the A48 before heading on quieter roads into the Forest of Dean where we will stop for elevenses (Kaplan's Café in Coleford). This section will be undulating with a couple of climbs until we get into the Wye Valley. This glorious section of road runs adjacent to the river past Tintern Abbey to Chepstow. I've arranged for lunch to be at the National Diving & Activity Centre with amazing views across the diving quarry. This will involve a short detour off the route from Chepstow but I hope it's worth it! After lunch we cross the Severn Bridge (hope you have a head for heights!) and return to Gloucester via the flatlands of the Severn valley. Option for an afternoon tea-break/ice cream at the canal-side Black Shed café near Slimbridge. Please note there are two short sections of well-surfaced towpath alongside the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal, road bikes will be fine though. The total distance is about 120km (75 miles) but a large portion of it is completely flat with all the climbing early on. This is a touring ride so we won't be going flat out and there will be opportunities to stop and take pictures, take in the scenery etc. This is going to be a special scenic ride. Hope you can make it!!
Riders: Adrian West Andy Newell Barry Gills David Talboys David Yearley Des Higgs John Talbot Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Louis Hall Mark Austin Mila Yearley Richard Pethybridge Riders = 13 Weather: Report: Great turnout for the first running of this special ride. I was a bit nervous as I hadn't ridden all the route before and I hoped the stop strategy was going to work OK! Weather was fab, warm and sunny all day We had a bit of excitement on the NCN route onto the A40 right from the off when a steep incline caused a stall in the bunch and a mass falling of riders, Andy N tumbling down the embankment! No harm done and lots of laughter. We had to cross the Severn to get on the right side which meant a few km on the A48, not too busy and a good surface. We were then onto small lanes until we got to the first real test of the day climbing up into the Forest of Dean. A long and pretty tough climb up through Littledean, but everyone took their time and their own pace and we regrouped at the top. This was followed by a fast descent and some undulations in the forest before the second big climb up to Broadwell, this was a fab climb, nice and steady with no interruptions. We then had a fast sweeping descent into Coleford and brunch at Kaplan's Cafe, a proper cycling venue and a real gem of a find. After sustenance it was one small climb before we dropped into the Wye Valley and the lovely and pretty quiet road alongside the river. We stopped for photos at Tintern Abbey before the long draggy climb up away from the river before plunging down into Chepstow. I tried to keep it secret when we went down the steep High Street that we would have to go back up it after lunch and I was hoping the lunchstop would be worth the detour. It was. Great views over the quarry watching the zipliners. After more food the return through Chepstow wasn't so bad and the last big climb of the day was done before we dropped down to the Severn Bridge. We took the crossing leisurely, enjoying the views in the sunshine and the exhilaration of cycling so high above the water. One of my favourite cycling roads, this was my 4th crossing. I promised no more hills after the bridge and I don't think the initial undulations in the Severn Valley went down too well! But we were soon onto very flat, windy, narrow, hedged lanes through small villages and past farms. There was some concern that the afternoon stop was not approaching quickly enough and we passed an open cafe in Berkeley unseen by me. I was sure the Black Shed Cafe wasn't too far away. It took a bit longer than expected to reach it and I pushed the pace a bit as I was getting worried it might be closed. But it was still open and it was a very welcome and needed break. Eating our ice creams and cream teas watching the swing bridge being opened to let the boats through. After even more food we attacked the slightly rough and overgrown 2.5km of towpath to the next swingbridge which we had to wait for as it was open. More small lanes took us towards Gloucester and a final much better surfaced towpath alongside the canal took us into Gloucester Quays and back to the cars. We took 6hrs cycling time for 130km which was pretty good going considering the early hilliness but everyone seemed to enjoy the ride and praised the route. It had a huge amount of variety, hills, wooded river valleys, abbeys, bridges, lanes, canals. It might become a regular ride on the CTC Wantage calendar Thanks to all the riders for coming along and your fantastic company, it was a very friendly and chilled ride. Thanks to Des, Richard and David for sweeping at various times.
Distance: 131.00 km (81.40 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/168585256
Tintern Abbey National Diving and Activity Centre, Chepstow Watching the boats on the Sharpness canal Black Shed Cafe, Slimbridge Kaplan's Cafe, Coleford The Forest of Dean The Wye Valley Crossing the Severn Bridge The Gloucester and Sharpness Canal
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4925285"
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Tue Jul 22nd 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.
Riders: David Brown David Yearley Frank Schroer John Davies Richard Pethybridge Riders = 5 Report:
Distance: 30.00 km (18.64 mi)
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Tue Jul 22nd 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 that tonight we could amble up to Lockinge and through to Wantage before doing a small bit of the Springline then crossing the a417to arrive back in Grove via Goosey and Denchworth.
Riders: Adrian West Andy Belcher Andy Cowan David Gore Des Higgs Katherine Boyce Louise Gore Simon Payne Stan Cowan Steve Boreham Steve Joyce Riders = 11 Weather: Report: A very pleasant evening for a ride. 3 new riders, welcome to Simon, David and Louise. We ambled over to Wantage via Ardington and the Lockinge path. Nobody was upset that i'd forgotten to mention the slight off-road element in my briefing! Despite the horrendous road surface on the Ickleton Road in Wantage, we all made it through. A pause at Letcombe Bassett for a few technical hitches to be sorted and then up the last big hill before descending into Childrey. We said goodbye to Steve and everyone else was very polite at me forgetting that we were meant to go to Sparsholt rather than Childrey . An uneventful return to Grove via Goosey and the road resurfacing between Denchworth and Grove. Thanks to Des for doing a sterling job as sweeper.
Distance: 30.90 km (19.20 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/169693882
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5314331"
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Tue Jul 22nd 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Another longish route along the spring line road to Ashbury. over to Lambourn and return to Grove via Hackpen Hill and the Letcombes.
Riders: Andy Pixton Barry Farquhar David Smith David Talboys Hugo Pile Jon Townsin Mark Shepley Nick Dunton Olivia Pile Peter Greenfield Phil Stubbings Ursula Hallam Riders = 12 Weather: Report: A good turnout for the ride and we were making good progress out of Grove until the leader punctured near the skate park. Andy Pixton kindly "volunteered" to lead the group onwards while the leader fixed his puncture and then tried to catch up with the group. I gather that the spring line road was as challenging as ever to the group. Ursula & I caught the group up as they ascended Ashbury Hill. I think everybody enjoyed the descent down to Lambourn where, after a short rest by the church, we climbed to the top of Hackpen Hill and the return to Grove via the Letcombes. Thanks to Nick for sweeping and Andy for picking up the lead duties to Ashbury.
Distance: 47.20 km (29.33 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5204556"
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Tue Jul 22nd 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: A return to Childrey this evening, taking an anticlockwise route out via Denchworth to West Challow and up into Childrey via the metalled bridleway. We'll return via the track to East Challow, with great views across the Vale, and then drop down to use some of the old concrete roads around the edge of the old Grove airfield. We'll return to Old Mill Hall by a devious route... about 11 miles in total. There will be two short stretches along the A417 with right turns. 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 Caroline Talboys John Stamp Steve Burr Steve Swanton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: The golden summer continues, with another glorious evening to be out on the bike, this time with a pleasant cooling breeze. A select group of 5 riders tonight and a warm welcome back to Caroline on her new bike. We stopped in Denchworth as usual and then on the bridge over the railway by Circourt farm (hill #2 as Caroline put it) to enjoy the panorama across the Vale to the Downs. Then on to West Challow where we picked up the metalled bridleway to Childrey. Here we encountered the first stinging nettles of the evening, and I could hear a found "ouch!"es from behind as we ascended. As Steve put it later, there can be some advantages in having hairy legs...
Distance: 18.83 km (11.70 mi)
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Sat Jul 26th 2014

Saturday afternoon ride from Grove	2*

Leader: Chris Walters	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: 56km ride, flat to start and hillier towards the end. Out via Steventon, Drayton, Appleford, the Moretons, and stopping for tea at Savages garden centre in Blewbury. Back up the hill to Chilton and via the A417 before descending Lains Barn. Will suit the fitter 2* riders.
Riders: Adrian West Alistair Deans Brian Hipwell Chris Walters David Bridge David Talboys David Yearley Emma Gilbert Nick Portsmouth Simon Payne Stephen Quartermain Riders = 11 Weather: Report: Welcome to the newer riders Emma, Alistair, Nick and Simon! Sweltering hot, but we made it. The classic "Tour de Didcot" took on a new poignancy, as this was to be the last club ride with all 6 cooling towers standing - the demolition is due in the darkness tomorrow morning. No dramas on the ride whatsoever. The tea stop at Savages was excellent as ever, and we had a few stops to take team pictures.... We even lengthened the ride to come back via Ginge, but for most of us, the heat was pretty limiting, so it was with relief that Grove loomed at the end. Well done to those who have a new "longest ride" to brag about!
Distance: 61.00 km (37.90 mi)	Ride Details: http://www.strava.com/activities/171188104/overview
The end of an era The end of an era
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5174213"
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Tue Jul 29th 2014

Tuesday Evening Off-road Ride	2*

Leader: David Brown	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: It's pub night, so a fairly short (15 mile) route at a relaxed pace on good trails with a couple of decent climbs and descents thrown in for good measure. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride, so remember to take a set of lights so you can be seen on the road home from the pub to Grove.
Riders: David Brown David Yearley Riders = 2 Weather: Report: We sat outside at The Fox and consumed , chili-burgers and chips. I guess we must have got to the pub via a MTB route that took us up to the Ridgeway and back via Denchworth but the makes me forgetful...
Distance: 24.14 km (15.00 mi)
Proposed Route: http://www.strava.com/routes/683800"
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Tue Jul 29th 2014

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Andy Pixton	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. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. This ride is a slight variant on one I led earlier in the season, only in reverse. We'll head out to Goosey, via Denchworth, then on to Baulking Lane and Uffington. From here we'll take the short climb up Fawler Hill to Kingston Lisle. After a short section of the springline road we'll head for Childrey via Westcott and Sparsholt, then up and left at the crossroads. From Windmill Hill we'll drop into West Challow and then back to Denchworth via Silver Lane and Circourt Road. I will stop the ride at The Fox, as it's The Club Social. There will be groups of riders returning to Grove periodically, but do come in for a coke and a chat first.
Riders: Andy Belcher Andy Pixton Brian Hipwell Charlotte Styles Emma Gilbert Ian Howland Michael Tayler Mila Yearley Val Smith Riders = 9 Weather: Report: A pleasant combination of warm sunshine and a cool breeze greeted us for Tuesday's ride. Initially it looked like there would only be two of us, but by the time we left the group had swelled to nine. The ride itself was fairly uneventful, with everyone comfortably staying together at a reasonable pace. Having done this ride in the reverse direction earlier in the season, there seemed to be more hills this time; just the way the climbing was distributed. In any case we all arrived, at exactly the same time as the 3* ride, at The Fox. Some stayed and some returned directly to Grove. Thanks to all who turned up, and particulary to Brian for sweeping.
Distance: 27.76 km (17.25 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5454981"
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Tue Jul 29th 2014

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Nick Dunton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: I thought it would be interesting to pass close by Didcot power station and view the effect of the demolition of the first three cooling towers, which is due to take place on the preceding Sunday. Fairly flat route of 42km, so aiming for a reasonable pace. Option to stop at The Fox in Denchworth for the social evening. Note: this route uses busier roads than the majority of our rides, so please avoid if you dislike riding in traffic.
Riders: Adrian West Chris Walters David Talboys Katherine Boyce Nick Dunton Olivia Pile Rachel Bennett Simon Payne Riders = 8 Weather: Report: An evenly-matched group, so a good pace was maintained throughout. After regrouping at the top of Lains Barn hill, we dodged the traffic along the A417, through Harwell and the outskirts of Didcot admiring new vistas minus three cooling towers. The railway bridge next to Foxhall carpark is now closed [three days earlier than advertised] which caused a confused leader to perform a 450-degree roundabout manoeuvre. The peloton disintegrated somewhat across Cow Common and through the Hanneys as the lure of The Fox strengthened breakaways’ resolve. A good ride: my first lead after the accident, so thanks all for making it such an enjoyable outing.
Distance: 42.00 km (26.10 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5394655"
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Tue Jul 29th 2014

10 Mile Club 1*	1*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1 - 1.5 hours rides at a riding pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph). Not likely to be hilly. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at 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.
Riders: Alex Purston Caroline Talboys Des Higgs Ian Mackay Joy Arthur Steve Burr Riders = 6 Weather: Report: 6 riders on the 1* tonight and a warm welcome to newcomer Alex Purston. All went smoothly following a route out to Charney Bassett, passing Shhephouse Farm, on to West Hanney and back to Denchworth for the meet at the Fox.
Distance: 17.70 km (11.00 mi)
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Tue Jul 29th 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 shorter route because of the Pub Night. So it's easy out past Frank's house through the Letcombes, up Hackpen, then right descending to the Ashbury road where we head out towards and up White Horse Hill, down and on to Ashbury. Then it's fast and flat to the Fox via Shrivenham, Fernham and the lanes to Denchworth. All welcome, no one will be dropped of course unless it's everyone if Adrian comes with his 83.5 kph descending!
Riders: Andy Cowan Geoff Covey Hugo Pile Janet Charleston Jason Jones Ken Pelton Mark Shepley Peter Cowan Peter Greenfield Riders = 9 Weather: Report: A good turnout,great to see some 4* debuts from Ken,Hugo and Jason who all did well.We seem to have quite a few regulars now and I m finding as a new leader all the rides take on a different personality.On this one with a fair range of fitness,experience and bikes we put the big boys on the front.I would like to say a big thank you on behalf of the group to Geoff who led from start to finish at a very considerate pace and kept a good eye down the line which was just what we needed. As far as the ride went there were no problems,we found our pace through the Letcombes and had a little conflab at the top of Hackpen where we split into 2 to give the quicker ones a blast until we regrouped at the top of WHH.Then on to Ashbury and home when we kept together at a decent pace thanks to a big effort from Janet and Hugo who will be feeling those thighs in the morning! Thanks everyone for coming. 34.5 miles Av speed 16 Oh ,my Steak and Kidney pie was lovely at the Fox by the way.
Distance: 55.52 km (34.50 mi)
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Ride Filter

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

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

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