Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Sat Apr 2nd 2016

Saturday Afternoon Ride from Grove	3*

Leader: Nick Dunton	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. An old favourite. Heading north for an arc round Witney and dipping our cleats into the Windrush and Evenload valleys. A mix of small country lanes and some larger roads where we can stretch our legs. A few hills as we flirt with the fringes of the Cotswolds – plus the climb from Tadpole Bridge to Buckland – but nothing serious. Small section of bridle path. Tea stop at Aston Pottery. 78.4km. Back c. 5.30 Route: Grove, Denchworth, West Hanney, Southmoor, Appleton, Cumnor, Farmoor, Swinford Bridge, Enysham, Cuckoo Lane, East End, Ashford Bridge, Wilcote, Delly End, Hailey, Priest Hill Lane, Crawley, Curbridge, Aston, Great Brook Lane, Tadpole Bridge, Buckland, Charney Bassett, Denchworth, Grove. Nick 01235-848580/07774-838310
Riders: Alan Gale Chris Walters Jason Jones John Groves John Talbot John Tranter Matthew Bray Nick Dunton Phil Stubbings Richard Saunders Riders = 10 Weather: Report: What a pleasure to ride and not feel cold! Was this the first day of spring cycling? A good turnout with varying degrees of white flesh on display. An uneventful ride with a good pace maintained throughout. A southerly wind was evident on the return leg but didn't hindered us too much. Welcome to Matt on his first CTC Wantage ride. Thanks to Richard and John for sweeping duties.
Distance: 78.40 km (48.72 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/7985382"
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Tue Apr 5th 2016

Tuesday Evening 2* and 3* Rides Restart

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Our popular Tuesday Evening cycle rides will start again on Tuesday 7th April through to September. There will be led rides of 15-40+ km, starting promptly at 18.30, from Old Mill Hall, Grove. We will have 2, 3, 4* and off-road rides each week to cater for all abilities. In addition, the Tuesday evening rides will include a 1* "10 Mile Club" starting on 19 April, offering relaxed and easy ride of about 10 miles at 10 mph to enjoy the countryside and get some exercise. We have a lot of riders out on a Tuesday evening; please follow instructions from the rides leaders to ensure we get away promptly and safely.
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Tue Apr 5th 2016

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. First 3* of the season and following a change of plan we're off to Uffington across the Vale. You must bring lights as sunset is still early.
Riders: Adrian West Andy Pixton Chas Boshell Chris Walters John Groves Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Mike Cooke Nick Dunton Nicole Pethybridge Roger Turnbull Ursula Hallam Riders = 12 Weather: Report: A rain shower greeted us as we gathered at Old Mill Hall for the opening night of the summer cycling season, swiftly followed by a rainbow. Setting off after the 2* riders going in the same direction was not the best of starts but before Denchworth railway bridge we had passed the other riders without losing any of our group. Being the first ride of the season, we took it easy and had more stops than usual. The A417 was safely crossed and we were on our way to Uffington. A quick reminder on traffic etiquette and we were on our way to Baulking for a leg stretch. With the light fading we arrived back at Old Mill Hall before the sun had fully set. . Thanks to Nicole for being back marker and for everyone for contributing to an enjoyable ridel
Distance: 33.20 km (20.63 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/539507692
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12945285"
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Tue Apr 5th 2016

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	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 straightforward start to our Tuesday 2* season. Out through Denchworth and West Hanney, up to Southmoor and back down via Charney Bassett. 16 miles / 25km. No hills at all! Lights essential.
Riders: Andy Belcher Bryony Stott Chas Boshell Claire Postbeschild Gareth Smith John Tranter Karen Townsin Mike Bailey Roger Postbeschild Steve Joyce Steve Swanton Sue Duncombe Susie Turnbull Tony Clark Val Smith Riders = 15 Weather: Report: What a wonderful start to the Tuesday 2* season! The great big black cloud sat above Grove at the start was a worry, but sure enough it drifted away and left us with a perfect sunny evening. A really nice group assembled - great to see familiar faces from last year back with us again, and also particularly good to welcome Claire, Bryony and Sue on their first rides with us. The ride went as planned without any problems. The group stayed together well and everyone seemed happy as we got back to Grove in the gathering gloom. Thanks to all for a very enjoyable ride!
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8410848
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12819041"
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Tue Apr 5th 2016

Tuesday Evening 4* Ride	4*

Leader: Paul Jarvis	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5-2 hours ride at a riding pace of 25-29km/h (16-18mph). May be hilly. The first 4* ride of the season will be shorter than normal With a requirement for lights as sunset is around 19:40 We will head out via Denchworth,Charney Bassett,turning right before church along sandy lane . Re grouping and turning left onto A420 for half a mile before turning right into Littleworth & Thrupp at next junction turn left climbing towards Faringdon through the town and again crossing A420 towards Fernham , decend and at junction turn left on to B4508 through Shellingford ,Hatfield turning right Buckland road Homeward bound Charney Bassett ,Denchworth to Grove !
Riders: Andy Cowan David Smith Frank Schroer Jason Jones Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Riders = 6 Report: The season opener headed off with six old faithful riders setting a good pace against the wind with Frank leading the way,sorry guys I had forgotten my Garmin so had no idea what speed we were doing ! We kept as a tight group and had the opportunity to hold an odd chat as we progressed along. With the wind behind us for the first time heading from Fernham towards Shellingford, Jason took up the lead. not bad for a man who's bike hasn't been ridden since September. it was so clean it looked new ! Frank and the rest of the group soon caught Jason up and rode together putting the hammer down . Arriving back in Grove in 1.35 for 45 k Not bad for the season opener.
Distance: 45.00 km (27.96 mi)
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Tue Apr 5th 2016

Tuesday Evening Off-road Ride	2*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	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 two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather. First ride of the new season.
Riders: David Brown John Davies Richard Pethybridge Riders = 3 Weather: Report: A glorious rainbow (see photo) greeted a much larger group of cyclists to the Old Mill Hall car park this evening, as the MTBers were joined not only by the night road riders but the rest of the club members at the start of a new season. A simple clockwise loop for the mud-pluggers this evening, out via the tracks and lanes to Harwell, up the chalky climb to the Ridgeway, and along to the Monument. A dive down the Jolly Green Giant and Goddard's Brook and a final slither along Crab Hill lane brought us back in familiar darkness to an empty car park.
Distance: 27.00 km (16.78 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8406423
Rainbow greets the new season
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Sat Apr 9th 2016

Off-road Afternoon Ride (Cancelled)	2*

Leader:	Start Time: 10:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Cancelled due to no leader - we are all off on holidays or other things! The first weekend off-road ride of the season will be the 'Novices' ride on 24th April.
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Sun Apr 10th 2016

The Harlequin Hack	3*

Leader: John Talbot	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: Uffington
Description: Now organised by CTC Wantage this popular audax starts and ends at the Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall in Uffington. A fairly gentle 100km ride through the edges of the Cotswolds to Chipping Norton and back. This is run under audax regulations and pre-entry is required. See http://www.aukweb.com/events/detail/16-101/ for full details. UPDATE 3rd Apr :- I will accept entries on the day although it makes the paperwork easier if you do it in advance via PayPal.
Riders: Andy Pixton Bill Flockton Chris Walters Hugh Falkner Hugo Pile John Tranter Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Louis Hall Nick Dunton Nicole Pethybridge Richard Pethybridge Riders = 12 Weather: Report: A fine but chilly morning greeted the 39 starters (plus 2 who rode the day before). All got round safely in the time limit most mentioning the nagging headwind back from Chipping Norton. A massive thanks to Nick Stokell and Des Higgs for manning the controls. Tracey Talbot, Jasmine Talbot, Nick Dunton and June Dunton for helping to run the HQ. Katherine Boyce and her chums from Flexicare for preparing the food for the arrivée. Without these guys and gals giving up their Sunday the ride couldn't have happened. A very generous bunch of riders donated a considerably sum of money to charity too. Thank you to everyone who rode for supporting the event. Same again next year?!
Distance: 109.00 km (67.73 mi)
Just before the off John briefs the riders Off they go! Off they go! Off they go!
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/11631422"
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1

Written by : Karen Townsin

Posted on : April 10, 2016 at 7:25 PM

Thanks John for an excellent route and to all the helpers and food&drink providers. A very enjoyable day out.

2

Written by : Nicole Pethybridge

Posted on : April 11, 2016 at 12:55 PM

Great day out. I recommend it to more club riders next year. The start and finish at Uffington worked really well

Tue Apr 12th 2016

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: David Talboys	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.
Riders: Andy Pixton Chris Walters David Talboys Jane John John Groves Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Mike Cooke Nick Dunton Nicole Pethybridge Ursula Hallam Yvonne Bird Riders = 14 Report:
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Tue Apr 12th 2016

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	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. Continuing the early season theme, this ride will be flat and fairly short. Out through Denchworth to West Hanney, then Lyford and Charney Bassett, down to Stanford in the Vale, finishing with the nice quiet Park Lane cut through back to Denchworth and home. A distance of 17 miles / 27km at a steady speed of around 12mph / 19kph. This should bring us back to Grove by 8pm at just about sunset. Lights essential!
Riders: Adrian West Bryony Stott Claire Postbeschild Des Higgs John Stamp John Tranter Lorna Swanton Roger Postbeschild Sara Ward Steve Boreham Steve Joyce Steve Swanton Sue Duncombe Val Smith Riders = 14 Weather: Report: Another perfect spring evening and another great group of 2* riders gathered. Really nice to see Sue, Bryony and Claire back again after their debuts last week. The ride went according to plan. Steve and Lorna peeled off for a slight shortcut and various riders left us to head home as we got towards the end. Many thanks to all for a lovely ride on a lovely evening!
Distance: 27.36 km (17.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8490311
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12820005"
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Tue Apr 12th 2016

Tuesday Evening 4* Ride	4*

Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5-2 hours ride at a riding pace of 25-29km/h (16-18mph). May be hilly. Straight forward route out to Ashbury via Uffington and Shrivenham, then back along the spring line to West Challow, Denchworth and back to Grove. Lights are required as sunset is around 19:58.
Riders: Andy Cowan David Smith Jason Jones Nick Fisher Nick Stokell Peter Cowan Phil Ward Richard Kembleton Richard Saunders Riders = 9 Weather: Report: Good strong ride out to Ashbury with a bit of an unwelcome headwind in places. The group got a bit spreadout along the Spring Line Road which is not unusual along there. At the Challow turning off the Spring Line, 5 of the group continued in to Wantage and home, which left 4 of us to continue on the route. Andy had a pucture near the railway bridge just before Denchworth and urged the rest of us to carry on without him, as he may be some time... Phil left us in Denchworth to head back to Hanney, so Richard & I were the only ones to arrive back at Old Mill Hall.
Distance: 48.60 km (30.20 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8491193
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/4518847"
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1

Written by : Phil Ward

Posted on : April 12, 2016 at 10:17 PM

Nice ride chaps & a good route too, thanks David.

Tue Apr 12th 2016

Tuesday Evening Off-road Ride [CANCELLED]	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: There will be no off-road ride tonight. Normal service resumes 19th April.
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Sat Apr 16th 2016

Back-on-your-Bike Ride 2016	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Update 16 April - weather is clearing after a wet start, but it will be a little chilly. Please wrap up warm! We may stop at the Lamb & Flag for coffee rather than the shops for ice creams! Our Annual Spring Ride aimed at those who haven't been cycling much over the winter and want to dust off their bike and get the pedals turning again. Newcomers will be very welcome and it's an opportunity for club members to bring family and friends. Please note that children need to be accompanied by a responsible adult. This will be a gentle ride around the quiet lanes of the Vale of White Horse visiting the villages of Denchworth, Lyford, Southmoor and Charney Bassett. We'll stop regularly to catch our breath and take in the views and we'll a stop by the shop in Southmoor for refreshments (or ice creams) about half- way round. The full route will be about 16 miles but there are several short-cut options for those who would prefer a shorter ride.
Riders: Constance Gicquel David Bridge Erin Brady Karen Townsin Karl Blake Kevin Brady Lindsay Glover Lorna Swanton Marcia Griffith Richard Kidd Sarah Dore Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Riders = 14 Weather: Report: It was decidedly chilly as we gathered in the car park. But the forecast was for better later, and despite the conditions 4 new faces and 14 riders in all for this year’s BoYBR. A warm welcome to Marcia, Lindsay, Kevin and his daughter Erin on their first rides with us and welcome back to those out for their first rides of the season. We followed the route as planned to Lyford, where we stopped by the church, and then on to Southmoor. We allowed the ride to split into a number of groups each with experienced riders in support so that riders could go at their own pace. We stopped every few miles to regroup. Due to the temperature, nobody fancied an ice cream and we headed to the Lamb & Flag for a hot drink. Alas, it was shut!. However, the sun came out and we all enjoyed the gentle downhill run to Charney Bassett, where we found the Chequers to be open. At this point the group split into 2 with 5 of the ladies deciding they would prefer to continue home, while the remaining 8 (Richard had already left us at Southmoor) stopped for a drink. Despite already having ridden her furthest ever on-road, Erin was up for the longer loop back. So, suitably, refreshed and in by now very pleasant afternoon sunshine, we continued, taking the road to Goosey and returning to Denchworth and Grove via Asti Stud. There were beaming smiles all round at the finish. Well done to Erin on completing her longest ever ride. We look forward to seeing all our newcomers again when time allows. Thanks everyone for an enjoyable afternoons ride. A photo to come.
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)
Wrapped up warm for the 2016 Back-on-your-Bike Ride
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12390432"
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Sun Apr 17th 2016

Regular Wantage Ride	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: Monthly 80-100km (50-65 miles) all-day touring ride, lunch and possibly tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. Thought we could go to the delightfully named Engineman’s Rest Café at the Crofton Beam Engine complex for lunch. Few hills to get there: Hackpen just out of Wantage and Spring Hill coming out of Ramsbury being the 2 big ones. Over the A4 to Froxfield and then following the Kennet and Avon to Crofton. After an early lunch we take in the edge of the Savernake Forest before a short stretch on the A4. We then follow the River Kennet before making our way to Ogbourne St George. Then on to a tea stop at The Three Trees at Chisledon, before taking the Ridgeway Road to Fox Hill and finally picking up the Springline road back to Wantage. Those of you that know me, know that I do not climb hills fast, so please don't be put off by the hills Please let me know if you are planning on coming so I can let the café know for lunch - it can get busy. Update 12 April: had a tip off that I was trying to take us down bridleways after lunch (thanks Chris) so I have amended the route slightly between Axford and Ogbourne St George.
Riders: Andy Pixton Jon Townsin Katherine Boyce Mike Bailey Nick Stokell Pam Stokell Richard Kidd Richard Pethybridge Steve Swanton Riders = 9 Weather: Report: What a great day to be out on the bikes, sunshine, little wind and a bunch of cyclist up for an undulating ride into Berkshire . We were slightly late leaving the Market Place because we took so long working out who had the most accurate timepiece, this gave time for the last arrival. Of and up to the Ridgeway via Hackpen Hill where a patient Mike was waiting for us. A swift round of introductions and with the temperature continuing to climb from the overnight frost, layers started to be removed. Onwards into Berkshire and before we knew it we had paused at the bottom of Spring Hill to ensure everyone knew what was coming. We paused at the top for triumphant photos before continuing on to Crofton. Luckily Richard P steered us away from the tow path to the front of Crofton where we arrived before 12. Which was lucky as more and more people turned up for lunch. Yet again the Engineman's Rest Café came up trumps with some great food. The views and scenery continued to get better. Delightful valleys, swooping downhills, dappled woodland, interesting rivers and characterful villages, we had the lot! We caused chaos at the Three Trees café - but we all ended up with what we'd ordered, including an enormous cream tea for Steve Then up and over Fox Hill and we were back on home territory. Nick decided he hadn't done enough hills so popped up White Horse Hill, the rest of us didn't feel the need to join him! We started to say goodbye to people as they peeled off. Determined to ensure we did the full 100kms, we took the long way back to the Market Place. The end of a great days riding. Thank you all for being such great companions for the day.
Distance: 100.00 km (62.14 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/548643511/
Spring Hill conquered (April 2016) Small cakes at Three Trees (April 2016)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12934147"
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1

Written by : Jon Townsin

Posted on : April 17, 2016 at 8:31 PM

Excellent route Katherine and the timing was exquisitely planned so as to arrive at Compton in time for breakfast!
Thanks for a great day😀

Tue Apr 19th 2016

10 Mile Club 1* Rides Restart	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Details to come
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Tue Apr 19th 2016

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: David Smith	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. An old favourite, out over Hackpen Hill, down to Lambourn and back via Seven Barrows, Lingston Lisle, Goosey and Denchworth. Light still required.
Riders: Andy Pixton Chris Walters David Smith David Talboys John Groves John Tranter Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Froud Karen Townsin Mike Cooke Nicole Pethybridge Olivia Pile Richard Kidd Ruth Fisher Sara Ward Ursula Hallam Riders = 17 Weather: Report: Despite a navigational moment near the start the ride went well and according to plan. A big group, we split in to 2 until we reached the turning to the Letcombes. Holborn and Hackpen Hills were quickly dispatched, but the descent to Lambourn was slower than expected because of a headwind. The ride along the Seven Barrows road was enjoyable as usual and the descent of Blowing Stone quick! The group then made good progress back to Grove, with various people dropping off along the way as the neared home. Thanks to everyone for coming along and making it an enjoyable ride and for Andy Pixton for sweeping.
Distance: 37.40 km (23.24 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8593738
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13103572"
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Tue Apr 19th 2016

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	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.
Riders: Adrian West Andy Belcher Bryony Stott Des Higgs Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Steve Boreham Steve Joyce Susan Holdroyd Val Smith Riders = 10 Weather: Report: Great ride, great weather and everyone enjoyed it.
Distance: 38.20 km (23.74 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13224843
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Tue Apr 19th 2016

Tuesday Evening 4* Ride	4*

Leader: Phil Ward	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5-2 hours ride at a riding pace of 25-29km/h (16-18mph). May be hilly. A predominantly flat 43km loop out to the North tonight. Lanes to Garford, a short stretch of A338 to Tubney cross-roads, then right up to Cothill, Dry Sandford. Crossing North of the A420 at The Greyhound, Bessels Leigh to turn for home at Eaton. Passing through Appleton & Longworth before recrossing the A420 onto the Charney Road from where it all becomes routine. Aiming to bed in good group riding habits of consistent pacing & clear communication (holes/obstructions/turns/mechanicals etc). Lights essential please, aiming to be back at OMH before sunset but if gloomy or delayed they will be required.
Riders: Andy Cowan Frank Schroer Jason Jones Nick Stokell Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Phil Stubbings Phil Ward Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Rough Traders: Bouncing over mud-ball strewn lanes, pock marked with some monstrous holes and gullies made negotiating our outward leg to Garford quite challenging. All survived intact, avoiding 'The Fall'. We spun happily through Cothill and Dry Sandford looking in vain for 'Blue Orchids' before turning straight into the lowering sun towards Besselsleigh. The top turn at Eaton left us a glorious long downwind and downhill easy all the way through Longworth where bizarrely amongst other topics, bands of the 80s were discussed. A comfort break enabled 'This Charming Man' to set us off on the fast swoop through Charney in fine style & once over Denchworth railway bridge the sandbagging ended and 'Inflammable Material' in the form of 3 whippets were unleashed on "The Dash" - I am told Mr Jones emerged triumphant. Chapeau Sir! We made it back to OMH in rapidly cooling evening light at 8:05, highly satisfied with 42.7 km in 1hr 30. Thanks Gents, a very convivial evening awheel.
Distance: 42.70 km (26.53 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12960729"
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Tue Apr 19th 2016

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. Our first ride will follow an out-and-back route via Denchworth to the village of Goosey with its large open green and picturesque church, a total distance of about 8 miles. It can be chilly in the evening shadows along the lanes in April, so an extra warm layer and gloves are recommended.
Riders: Bill Flockton Clare MacPherson Ellie Goulding John Stamp Joshua King Larry King Lorna Swanton Marcia Griffith Nicky Clark Sarah Dore Steve Swanton Tony Clark Tony Hetherington Riders = 13 Weather: Report: A lovely sunny evening and a great turnout for our opening 10-mile club ride of the season. A warm welcome to Nicky, Larry, Josh and Ellie on their first outings with the club, and welcome back to Tony (H) and Claire. We followed the usual back route of Mary Green path, Waylands Road and Brereton Drive out of Grove to avoid Main Street and cycled out to Denchworth in the sunshine. We stopped by the Fox PH to check that everyone was ok, before continuing on to Goosey, where we stopped for a rest (and photo call) in the middle of the green. It was decidedly chillier on the way back in the shade but the evening sunshine was beautiful and we cast long shadows onto the road in front of us as we rode back to Denchworth. We stopped again by the pub on the way back to look at the old village cross (it used to be in the centre of the Grove road junction until hit by a lorry and relocated in 1989) and were then pleased to see the village peacock with his three albino peahens walking by. We were back in Grove by 7:45 before sunset. Well done everyone, we look forward to seeing you again next week.
Distance: 13.52 km (8.40 mi)
10-mile club riders on Goosey Green, 19 Apr 2016
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Tue Apr 19th 2016

Tuesday Evening Off-road Ride	2*

Leader: David Yearley	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 two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather. 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 two. 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 John Davies Richard Anstis Riders = 3 Report:
Distance: 28.16 km (17.50 mi)
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Sat Apr 23rd 2016

Saturday Afternoon Ride from Grove	2*

Leader: Karen Townsin	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). Not likely to be very hilly. Might be a struggle for new or irregular riders in winter months. The plan is to follow the route of the Childrey Spring Classic, taking in the quiet, flat lanes of the North and West of the area, before heading back via the spring line and the villages of Sparsholt, Goosey and Denchworth. There is one sharp climb at Compton Beauchamp, but it's short enough to walk up if you want to. Tea will be at Britchcombe Farm.
Riders: Adrian West Brian Hipwell David Bridge Des Higgs John Groves John Tranter Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Karl Blake Mila Yearley Nick Dunton Nick Portsmouth Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Riders = 15 Weather: Report: Despite a chilly North wind, it was a fantastic turnout, with more and more riders appearing as 1pm approached. The wind was a little troublesome on the way to Southmoor, but it made for lovely clear views of the Ridgeway as we headed back South. The ride progressed pretty much as planned, with the scouts staying up on the hill and giving us a clear run at the Teapot at Britchcombe Farm. Thanks everyone for a sociable, enjoyable ride.
Distance: 56.00 km (34.80 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8646500
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13007361"
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Sun Apr 24th 2016

Off-road Morning Ride - for Novices	1*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: 97 The Causeway, Steventon OX13 6SJ
Description: A special ride for those beginning off-roading, with a 'teach in' and a short but pleasant ride. This was well received last year, with some important learnings about tyre pressures. (And Dave Talboys demonstrated how to fix a puncture!) We'll start at my house with a bike check, and check out tyre pressures and suspension settings. (There should be enough car parking on my drive). Second we'll do a 2 mile loop up Steventon Hill and back down, which provides a chance to learn the key off-road skills for climbing, descending and going down singletrack in the woods like a Jedi. Third, we'll ride a 10-mile loop up to The Ridgeway and back to sample a bigger climb and a bigger descent and put all those skills into practice.
Riders: Robin Tucker Riders = 1 Weather: Report: I was joined for this ride and teaching session by the Goulding family of 5. We started by learning how to make sure your bike is in good order with the 'M-check' and then checked our tyre pressures to ensure they were not too hard or soft. We first rode up Steventon Hill off-road to the Trig point, making sure that we used all of the gears right to the lowest one, and sitting at the front of our saddles. Then it was down through the Copse, practising keeping our pedals level, and either sitting back a bit, or standing on the pedals. On the twisty tracks in the Copse, the important thing was to look well ahead. to see where the track was going. The girls really enjoyed this downhill and twisty bit. After this, we did most of the same thing again, climbing to the top of the Copse and back down. Then we took the flat track out to the solar panel farm and back. All in all, a very pleasant morning, learning a few things and putting them straight in to practice.
Distance: 7.24 km (4.50 mi)
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Tue Apr 26th 2016

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride	3*

Leader: Andy Pixton	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. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride.
Riders: Andy Pixton Chris Walters David Smith David Talboys Jane John Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Mike Cooke Nicole Pethybridge Roger Turnbull Yvonne Bird Riders = 13 Weather: Report: A very grey, threatening sky, finally let loose with squalls and sleet as we passed through Denchworth. One or two confessed afterwards that they had considered turning back at that point. Thankfully we all persevered, and apart from the odd occasion when we turned into the wind, we managed to dodge the worst of what we could spy in patches all around us. We even managed some warm sunshine for a time. A compact group, with no-one complaining about the pace, we all arrived back in Denchworth before dark. Some came to The Fox for food and refreshments while others returned directly to Grove. Thanks to all who turned out, and particularly to Katherine who swapped ends with me, for a change .
Distance: 38.40 km (23.86 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/557591796
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13347154"
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Tue Apr 26th 2016

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. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. A nice flat ride north this week to the cunning shortcut under the A420 at Fyfield. From Grove we will ride up the A338 to the Hanneys and then take the quieter back road to Garford. We then ride on the A338 again for a short while turning off at Tubney a short distance away from the fore mentioned shortcut at Fyfield. The route then heads south to Charney Basset and onto Denchworth. I will be leaving the ride at Denchworth for our regular social evening at the Fox. For those not stopping at the Fox Grove is only a short distance away and there should be plenty of people to guide you back if you aren't familiar with the route which is very simple.
Riders: Adrian West Des Higgs John Tranter Karl Blake Steve Joyce Susie Turnbull Val Smith Riders = 7 Weather: Report: Not a particularly nice night for a bike ride. Freezing wind and snow showers dogged us from the start making us take shelter under a hedge a kilometer or so into the ride on the A338. Once the initial shower subsided we decided to cut the route short and miss the underpass at the A420. We were the first group back to the Fox for the monthly social which was very pleasant.
Distance: 24.80 km (15.41 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13224684"
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Tue Apr 26th 2016

Tuesday Evening 4* Ride	4*

Leader: Nick Stokell	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5-2 hours ride at a riding pace of 25-29km/h (16-18mph). May be hilly. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. Heading South this week, up Manor Road to warm up, then a fast run down towards Shefford followed by a short sharp climb up towards RAF Welford, turning N and the gentle climb through Brightwalton. The celebrated descent of Chain Hill is followed by "the usual route" to the Fox at Denchworth, where the led ride ends. Lights necessary.
Riders: Andy Cowan Jason Jones Nick Stokell Paul Jarvis Phil Stubbings Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Only five brave souls ventured out - not surprising given the cold and wind! Once at the top of Manor Road the Northerly wind drove us South at great pace. Heading North was a different matter and we all felt short of a couple of layers of clothing. Still, good to get out on an evening like that and get 500 m of climbing in.
Distance: 41.50 km (25.79 mi)	Ride Details: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/8706184
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/13210143"
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Tue Apr 26th 2016

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, 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. It can be chilly in the evening shadows along the lanes in April, so an extra warm layer and gloves are recommended. This week, we will head out via Denchworth, to Lyford, the a curl round to West Hanney, before returning to Grove via Denchworth, to drop off the drinkers, before heading back. Total of about 9 miles. Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth for a sociable drink at the end of the ride. Lights will be required if you are riding home from the pub.
Riders: Joshua King Larry King Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 4 Report: Only a few weeks from midsummer's day - and, yes, sleet showers.... A select gathering of four - two fairly new riders, a stalwart and a leader. Perhaps all the others had warmer ideas... Shortly after leaving OMH, a convenient bus shelter was in order whilst the sleet passed over. After a short interlude, we were on our way again. Apart from the statutory "stop" in Denchworth to check all were OK, the usual "One Star pauses" were shunned in favour of moving to try to keep warm. Young Josh did brilliantly and we set a good pace - stretching the one star remit a little. On arriving back at OMH we found we had done from the bus stop all the way back in just an hour! Well we had to keep warm (ish!). Despite the cold, an enjoyable ride, and well done Josh!
Distance: 17.57 km (10.92 mi)
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Tue Apr 26th 2016

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 two. 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 David Yearley John Davies Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A shortish ride and then to The Fox!
Distance: 24.14 km (15.00 mi)
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Sat Apr 30th 2016

Oxford Special all day ride	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: NOTE: slight change of start time (so you can have a bit longer in bed...) PLEASE NOTE: to try to assess catering, could anyone planning to join this ride contact me to confirm? I don't need a 100% commitment, just wanting to get a feel for it. NB: start at Old Mill Hall, Grove. A re-run of a classic all day Oxford ride, this is a fairly gentle ride, only really designated 3* by the total distance (around 90km / 57 miles). We will go out via Hanney, Steventon & Sutton Courtenay to Long Wittenham, then cross the Thames at Clifton Hampden and go through the Baldons to Garsington and Wheatley. Then a super cunning cut through to Shotover and Headington, past the house with a shark in the roof, down Headington Hill, right into the heart of Oxford for some classic sightseeing moments (I am a College Bursar - I can give you the inside stories). Then we head north for a great lunch stop at the Plough pub in Wolvercote, before some lovely scenery around Port Meadow to Botley and Cumnor, followed by a gentle run home via Fyfield and Charney Bassett. Easy riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph).
Riders: Adrian West Alan Gale Brian Hipwell Carol Bidgood Chris Walters Des Higgs John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Lyn Taylor Matthew Bray Mike Bailey Mila Yearley Nicole Pethybridge Olivia Pile Richard Kidd Roger Postbeschild Riders = 17 Weather: Report: Wow - that was a big group! I guess it was a rare day without hailstorms. So 17 of us set off on a lovely sunny morning. There was good group discipline and the ride stayed together well. All went according to plan, the Wheatley-Shotover link track was fairly dry and the swoop down into Oxford was as exhilarating as ever. We couldn't resist a photo opportunity with the Headington shark. Oxford was swarming with students and tourists so fighting our way through the crowds was mildly challenging. We had a quick look at St Cross College's new building, tried not to look at the 60's horror architecture of University HQ in Wellington Square and were pretty impressed by the new Blavatnik School of Government building in Jericho. We were unimpressed by the scrappy bike path north on the Woodstock Road, but very impressed by the welcome and the food and drink at the Plough in Wolvercote. A bit slow on getting the food orders out, but worth the wait. A slight crisis when Richard discovered his lock was broken and he couldn't release it was solved with the help of the landlord's chisel - that's good service! The second half was uneventful and we successfully avoided a few apocalyptic looking cloud formations. Thanks to all for a great ride!
Distance: 93.34 km (58.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8740752
Photo opportunity with the Headington shark. How many club members does it take to open a lock? Hmm... If in doubt, ask the landlord for a chisel and hammer...
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/8165493"
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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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