Past Rides
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Sat Apr 1st 2017
| 3* Saturday Afternoon Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Nick Stokell |
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.Repeat of last September's ride, but hoping for some better weather this time! Ride out to Southrop just West of Lechlade visiting some of the country lanes and villages in the area. This is a largely flat ride of 72 km with a tea stop at Lechlade Garden Centre after 39 km. Nick Mob 07582 483315 (for queries on the Friday evening/Sat) or nicknpbmd@aol.com |
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Riders:Barry StantonJason Jones Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Louis Hall Nick Stokell Phil Ward Sara Ward Riders = 8 Weather: Report:The gods looked down favourably and the forecast showers never arrived. Instead we enjoyed sunny spells, great views and zero mechanicals. Everyone seemed to be in good shape. Thank you for your company! | ||
Distance:71.60 km (44.49 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/13692243 | |
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/16023725" | ||
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Tue Apr 4th 2017
| Tuesday Off Road Evening Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 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. For winter, we'll start Outside Lord Nelson pub, Lark Hill, Wantage |
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Report: | ||
Distance:32.00 km (19.88 mi) | ||
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Tue Apr 4th 2017
| Tuesday 2* Evening Ride | 2* |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description: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 (unless we count the Denchworth Road railway bridge. Which we don't...) Lights essential. |
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Riders:Barry StantonBethany Tranter Brian Hipwell David Jackson Eddie Little John Culverwell John Tranter Karl Blake Kirsten Smith Lorna Swanton Mike Bailey Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Tim Parr Riders = 14 Weather:Report:A glorious spring evening and a great turn-out. A particular welcome to John C making his debut with us. Also good to see a few returnees brushing off the cobwebs!All went according to plan until Kirsten succumbed to an unexpected puncture between Hanney and Southmoor. This gave an opportunity for both a nice rest and a bit of practical puncture repair practice. Otherwise it was a nice, mellow ride with a glorious sunset and some final gathering gloom. Thanks to all for a fun evening! | ||
Distance:24.14 km (15.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/13752782 | |
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| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8410848" | ||
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Tue Apr 4th 2017
| Tuesday 3* Evening Ride | 3* |
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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. |
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Riders:Adrian WestCarrie Kembleton David Talboys Des Higgs Jane John Jenny Gower Jo Little John Groves Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Kirsten Smith Martin Hook Mike Cooke Nick Dunton Nicole Pethybridge Sara Ward Sharon Bedford Terry Penn Ursula Hallam Yvonne Bird Riders = 21 Weather:  Report:A large group of 21 cyclists braved to cold to begin the season. The riders were split into two smaller groups with Dave leading the first group and Jon leading the second.The cold and the approaching dusk meant that we kept up a stiff pace of 24kph to get back to Grove before the light failed. | ||
Distance:36.46 km (22.66 mi) | ||
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/19848099" | ||
Comment on this ride | ||
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Written by : Karen T Posted on : April 5, 2017 at 10:20 AM |
I picked up something that appeared to have fallen off a bike/out of a pocket on the ride just out of OMH. Give me a call on 07768066413 if you have lost anything. |
Tue Apr 4th 2017
| Tuesday 4* evening ride | 4* |
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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.The first 4* ride of the season will be shorter than normal With a requirement for lights as sunset is around 19:44. We will head out via Denchworth,Charney Bassett,turning right before church along sandy lane . Regrouping 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 ! |
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Riders:David SmithFrank Schroer Jason Jones Jerry Bird Phil Ward Ruth Fisher Simon Payne Riders = 7 Weather: Report:The 7 of us set out towards Farringdon via Littleworth in to fairly stiff headwinds but good group riding and sharing the load meant we made good progress. The leader briefly became the sweep on the short hill in to Faringdon where we regrouped. After crossing the A420 at the quietest I've ever seen it we heard the dreaded sound of a snapped chain, the urge to accelerate was clearly not the only thing that was strong!Phil "grease monkey" Ward quickly shortened Ruth's chain and we were off again with a reasonable tailwind. Frank "Monet" Schroer stopped to take photos of the Sunset at one point. A great evenings ride, thanks to everyone for coming. | ||
Distance:44.50 km (27.65 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/13752897 | |
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/19944591" | ||
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Sat Apr 8th 2017
| 2* Saturday Afternoon Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Karen Townsin |
Start Time:1:00 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:We will be following one of the routes from the Childrey Classic - an early Spring sportive.A tour of the Vale with a tea stop at Britchcombe Farm. A sharp but short climb at Compton Beauchamp and the usual undulating 'Spring Line' are the only bumps in an otherwise flat tour of familiar but still lovely local lanes. |
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Riders:Barry StantonGill Stansfield John Groves John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Mike Bailey Mila Yearley Roger Postbeschild Sharon Bedford Steve Boreham Riders = 11 Weather:  Report:Stunning weather for a relaxed afternoon through the Vale; bright sunlight reflecting off dazzling white knees and arms that were on display for the first time this season.We made excellent progress out through Hanney with the wind behind us and the beautifully smooth road making the cycling effortless. Everyone managed the hill at Compton Beauchamp with style, despite being nearly flattened by a Porsche Cayenne driver pulling out onto the road without looking; obviously isn't used to meeting any traffic. The tea stop at Britchcombe Farm was friendly and efficient, with the owner taking the trouble to speak to us and explain how she would be happy to open earlier for a large group if pre-arranged. A lovely ride with an equally lovely group. Thanks for making it very easy today; I enjoyed your company. | ||
Distance:55.00 km (34.18 mi) | ||
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| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13007361" | ||
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Sun Apr 9th 2017
| Harlequin Hack Audax Event | 3* |
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Leader:Jon Townsin |
Start Time:9:30 am |
Start Location:Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall - Uffington |
Description:110km cycling event starting from Uffington. Controls at WITNEY and CHIPPING NORTON, plus 1 information control.A modest excursion into the Cotswold hills followed by a gentle wander through the watery lanes of the upper Thames, the Evenlode and the Windrush. The ride starts and ends at the Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall in Uffington which has a village shop adjacent. Food and drink available at the start/finish and included in the entry fee. This is run under audax regulations and pre-entry is required. Please visit AUK website for further details and entry: http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-101/ |
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Riders:Adrian WestBarry Stanton David Smith Jan McCabe Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Karl Blake Louis Hall Lyn Taylor Richard Saunders Ursula Hallam Riders = 13 Weather: Report:What a fantastic day to cycle your first Audax ! Congratulations to Jo, Karl and Barry for each completing their inaugural Harlequin Hack. Amidst about 85 other riders, including several other Wantage members, the group rode a classic Cycling UK ride, encouraging, supporting and waiting, ensuring everyone finished the 109 kilometres together.The weather was absolutely beautiful, if a little windy on the return leg and the route took in fantastic views of the Cotswolds and Vale. The roads were mostly quiet and drivers were, mostly, courteous! Everyone took turns enduring the wind at the front and no wrong turns (of significance) were taken ! | ||
Distance:109.00 km (67.73 mi) | ||
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Written by : Jan Posted on : April 11, 2017 at 8:16 AM |
I turned up at the Audax not realising the Wantage group would be there, was lovely to join you and do the ride in great company, thanks |
Tue Apr 11th 2017
| Tuesday Off Road Evening Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 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. |
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Report:Excellent start to the spring season with fine weather and five of us out to enjoy it.Crab Hill was mercifully dry - although Richard did try a bit of puddle swimming, must be an Ironman thing. Then it was up to The Ridgeway via Goddards Brook and Bitham Woods. The top had a few puddles left, but nothing that was going to stop us. We enjoyed the grassy blast down to Lands End, and the climb back up to Scutchamer's Knob. It was too nice not to go down Ginge descent, so we did. But we weren't ready for the 'bridge of doom' so we nipped through the woods to Ardington and back to Grove. | ||
Distance:25.75 km (16.00 mi) | ||
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Tue Apr 11th 2017
| Tuesday 2* Evening Ride | 2* |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description: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! |
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Riders:Eddie LittleJohn Culverwell John Tranter Mila Yearley Roger Postbeschild Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Susan Holdroyd Tim Parr Riders = 9 Weather:Report:Another beautiful spring evening, and we set off with high hopes of a puncture free evening - not to be! John C unfortunately suffered a pinch puncture from a pothole just after Denchworth so that makes it 2 out 2 for puncture-hit 2* Tuesdays. Hopefully this is not a trend! John decided to go with the "phone a friend" solution and we carried on into the Vale.The group stayed together very well, even with a stiff headwind in places, and all went well. We were rewarded towards the end with a really lovely sunset. Thanks to all for a great ride. | ||
Distance:27.36 km (17.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/13889199 | |
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| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/8490311" | ||
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Tue Apr 11th 2017
| Tuesday 3* Evening Ride | 3* |
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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. |
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Riders:Andy PixtonBarry Stanton David Smith David Talboys Jan McCabe Jo Little John Groves Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Mike Cooke Nick Dunton Sharon Bedford Terry Penn Riders = 15 Weather:Report:Having decided to split the fifteen riders into two groups, with Katherine primed to lead the other one, it was a surprise to see the ride divide exactly by gender. Andy led the men out, into a cool breeze. It's definitely April, despite the sunshine. The wind would be intermittently irritating all the way to Fernham, but it didn't stop us maintaining a good pace throughout. The group stayed together comfortably, with no one complaining. Once we'd reached Uffington, the wind made the return home more relaxed, arriving at Old Mill Hall before sunset. Ten minutes later the women joined us, having been very chatty and sociable, I'm told! Thank you everyone, for an enjoyable evening's rides. | ||
Distance:33.90 km (21.06 mi) | Ride Details:https://www.strava.com/activities/938058360 | |
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12945285" | ||
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Tue Apr 11th 2017
| Tuesday 4* Evening Ride | 4* |
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Leader:Nick Fisher |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Tonight's planned route is a ride of two halves! Heading through Denchworth and Childrey, then onto the Letcombes. Turning right in Letcombe Regis for the first climb up Court Hill, regrouping at the top, then right on to Manor Road and a rollercoaster few miles heading towards Great Shefford. Then turning left up Buckham Hill and Hangmans Stone Lane, left again on to Common Lane, then eventually joining the B4494, giving those who enjoy descending the chance to blast down Chain Hill.Regroup at the bottom, then back through Wantage and onto to Old Mill Hall in Grove. Hilly and fast ride to test the legs - lights will be required |
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Riders:Frank SchroerJason Jones Louis Hall Nick Fisher Nick Stokell Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Phil Ward Ruth Fisher Riders = 9 Report: | ||
Distance:49.00 km (30.45 mi) | ||
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20186089" | ||
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Sat Apr 15th 2017
| Back-on-your-Bike Ride 2017 | 1* |
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Leader:Steve Swanton |
Start Time:2:00 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description: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 or Easter eggs) 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. |
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Riders:Alvaro ReyBarry Stanton Carin Tranter John Culverwell John Tranter Karl Blake Linda Baines Lorna Swanton Naomi Merritt Nick Portsmouth Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 12 Weather:Report:Despite the forecast, the sun shone for this years Back-on-your-Bike Ride, adding some welcome warmth when out of the nagging north-easterly breeze. Good to see a number of riders back on their bikes and a warm welcome to Linda on her first ride.In usual 1* fashion, we had a number of stops along the way. In Denchworth we inspected the Calvary and village Roll of Service and Honour on the wall of the Fox. And in Lyford we visited one of my favourite dead-ends in the Vale, resting awhile by the church and very dry manor pond. We enjoyed the lovely road surface up to Southmoor and I'm pleased to say that everyone was game to ride the full route. So after the gentle climb up to the village, we had a longer break beneath the cherry trees in the sunshine by the village store. Once we turned south again, we not only had the gentle downhill but the wind behind us and wide views to enjoy too. After the obligatory photo stop on Charney Bassett green, we continued back to Grove to finish a lovely mellow ride. Well done to all those back on their bikes and see you again soon. | ||
Distance:24.94 km (15.50 mi) | ||
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Tue Apr 18th 2017
| Tuesday Off Road Evening Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 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. |
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Report: | ||
Distance:25.75 km (16.00 mi) | ||
Comment on this ride | ||
Tue Apr 18th 2017
| 10-mile Club - 1* Evening Rides Restart | 1* |
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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. |
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Riders:Alvaro ReyBrian Hipwell Carin Tranter Edith Hipwell Lorna Swanton Mandy Wassell Naomi Merritt Nicky Clark Sheena Arnold Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 11 Weather:Report:A great start to our 1* season with 11 riders on a sunny but chilly evening. Great to see Edith, Mandy, Nicky and Sheena out again. We enjoyed a nice gentle ride out to Goosey and stopped for a rest by the small picturesque church on the corner of the village green. Several riders took the opportunity to take in the view of the Downs from the back of the churchyard.We returned by the same route in glorious late evening sunshine with the setting sun casting long shadows in front of us as we rode home. Lovely. Thanks everyone for coming and see you next week. | ||
Distance:13.52 km (8.40 mi) | ||
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Tue Apr 18th 2017
| Tuesday 2* Evening Ride | 2* |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:A favourite route to the east this time. We head down the cycle path to Wantage and then take the tracks and lanes to Ginge and across to East Hendred. Up past Q Gardens and a lovely descent into Steventon. We will then head back to the Hanneys and back to Grove.There are a few sections on bike tracks but the surfaces are generally not too bad and should be suitable for all bikes (unless you've gone a bit crazy with the carbon bling). 18 miles with what feels like more downhill than uphill (I know that can't actually be right, but trust me on this...) |
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Riders:David JacksonEddie Little John Tranter Malcolm Peck Olivia Pile Stephanie Haddrell Tony Clark Riders = 7 Weather:Report:A cold but bright spring evening - could have been a lot worse!A good group of returnees, nice to see everyone re-emerging. It was a fairly quiet ride traffic-wise, which is always good - presumably the school holidays had something to do with that. The ride was uneventful, quite peaceful and very enjoyable as a result. Thanks to all for your good company! | ||
Distance:30.58 km (19.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/14031419 | |
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| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/7955611" | ||
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Tue Apr 18th 2017
| Tuesday 3* Evening Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Nicole Pethybridge |
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.A very straightforward evening run around the vale. Out through the Letcombes, over to Uffington, Standford-in the Vale and home Please bring lights even though we will aim to be back by sunset |
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Riders:Barry StantonDavid Smith David Talboys Jan McCabe Jo Little John Groves Joy Arthur Karl Blake Mike Cooke Nick Dunton Nicole Pethybridge Sara Ward Sharon Bedford Steve Joyce Terry Penn Ursula Hallam Riders = 16 Weather:Report:A very straightforward but enjoyable run around the Vale. A clear night that did turn a little chilly as the sun started to set but a good early year ride, starting with a hill out of the Letcombes before a circular route through Uffington. A good turn out that split into small groups for the spring line road and any traffic but otherwise managed to stay together on quiet roads.19.9 miles at an average of 13.8 mph a very steady 3* ride, thanks to everyone | ||
Distance:31.84 km (19.78 mi) | ||
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20191918" | ||
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Tue Apr 18th 2017
| Tuesday 4* Evening Ride | 4* |
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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.I had planned a fast, flat ride through the vale. Then Phil told me he'd already put a similar route up for the following week! So we must suffer some more hills, most notably Blowingstone, with an anti-clockwise loop through Kingston Lisle, Letcombes, up Windmill Hill and then a blast through Wantage on the A417, and down past Lain's Barn and Williams. Lights needed. |
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Riders:Allen StaceyFrank Schroer Jason Jones Nick Stokell Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Phil Ward Richard Saunders Ruth Fisher Simon Payne Riders = 10 Weather:Report:Good fast group with plenty of enthusiasm meant that the ride became a series of short time trials, which I guess usually happens with an up and down route like this. Felt like more than 400 m of climbing (cf 520 m last week) so it must have been a good work out! | ||
Distance:41.50 km (25.79 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/14031704 | |
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20244946" | ||
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Sat Apr 22nd 2017
| Campaign Ride - the Oxford Special Series | 2* |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:12:15 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:An afternoon ride at 2* pace to Oxford to help in the campaign to 'Create a Space for Cycling'. Convening with other cycling groups and supporters at County Hall in Oxford at 2-2.30pm.NB: SORRY ABOUT THE EARLY START TIME, BUT THIS IS NECESSARY FOR US TO GET TO COUNTY HALL IN TIME FOR THE GATHERING. This is a 2* ride that has pretty much everything! We head out via Charney Bassett and discover the nifty Southmoor footbridge - the safest way to cross the A420. Then we follow the quiet road parallel to the A420 all the way to Cumnor and swoop down Cumnor Hill. Then the real fun begins with my most cunning bike track and riverside route into the centre of town. After a stop at County Hall for a political lobbying photo opportunity, we will continue to my very own St Cross College for a VIP coffee stop. You can only get in if you are a friend of the Bursar, with catering from the fine cafes of St Giles. From there we head north through Jericho to Wolvercote and a lovely circuit around Port Meadow before a super cunning bike-safe transit of the A420/A34 Botley junction. Then we climb Cumnor Hill and head for home via Wootton, Tubney and Fyfield. It is a long ride for an afternoon, but we have a few short cut options in the final section which we can use if necessary. I don't expect to be back before 5pm. Having said that, there are very few hills and we will stick to a steady 2* pace. |
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Riders:Barry StantonBrian Hipwell David Talboys Eddie Little Jackie Peck Jo Little John Tranter John Vandore Joy Arthur Karl Blake Mike Bailey Mila Yearley Olivia Pile Sharon Bedford Steve Swanton Riders = 15 Weather:Report:What a glorious spring day and what a great group! Despite the odd start time and the threat of political complications en route, a lot of people still seemed to like the idea of an Oxford ride.We made good time to Cumnor Hill, Botley and the North Hinksey start to the secret riverside route into Oxford. It is almost more remarkable these days when you pop out alongside the enormous new Westgate shopping centre development. We made it to County Hall just a few minutes after the event kicked off. About 130 people there to hear our very own Robin Tucker introduce a series of prospective councillors from across Oxfordshire, many of whom had cycled in from places like Faringdon and Witney, all giving support to the Space for Cycling initiative. We moved on to our VIP tea stop at my own St Cross College and enjoyed the sun trap that is the Blackwell Quad. It was an effort to get moving again, but we did and we successfully negotiated North Oxford, the lovely loop around Port Meadow and back up Cumnor Hill. We then decided to cut the ride a little short as time was pressing and retraced our steps to Appleton, followed by a short cut via Fyfield and West Hanney back home. Thanks to all for a very fun ride! | ||
Distance:67.59 km (42.00 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/14106790 | |
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| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/19850755" | ||
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Sun Apr 23rd 2017
| Bike Maintenance introduction |
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Leader:John Tranter |
Start Time:2:00 pm |
Start Location:Evergreen, Main Street, OX12 7JF |
Description:A lot of people have asked for a taster session on the basics of bike maintenance. This is it!We will gather around a couple of workshop stands in my garden and take a look at the most essential items for maintenance attention: tyres/punctures, brakes, gears and bike cleaning. This is not intended to be a lecture - we will look at any issues that people raise and also get your bikes up on the stands and take a look at real issues as worked examples. Let me know in advance if you have particular questions or specific issues you want us to look at. There is plenty of space for parking cars or bikes on our drive. We will have refreshments available during the session. We will plan to go on until around 4pm. |
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Riders:Barry StantonBethany Tranter Brian Hipwell David Smith Eddie Little Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Karl Blake Nick Portsmouth Riders = 10 Weather:Report:Fortunate with the weather once again, a good group gathered on the driveway to fiddle about with bikes. As I had hoped, there was lots of interaction and lots of swapping of hot tips.We found ourselves with a focus on drive chain maintenance and brake adjustment and ran out of time to look into the details of gear adjustments. Thanks to all for a fascinating and thoroughly worthwhile afternoon. I know a few people were interested but couldn't make it, so we will plant to do this again later on the season. Thaks to Roger P for the loan of a spare work stand and particular thanks to David S for co-leading the session. | ||
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Tue Apr 25th 2017
| CANCELLED Tuesday Off Road Evening Ride | 2* |
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Leader:Robin Tucker |
Start Time:6:30 pm |
Start Location:OMH |
Description:Sorry, this ride is cancelled because all of the regular ride leaders are away. You are welcome to go for your own ride of course, or join the 1* or maybe 2* road ride.Or, you could say that this ride has moved to Newport, South Wales for a 230 miles 6 day ride to Bangor, on the North coast of Wales. Over 10,000 m of climb, and I don't think we have enough stars for that! 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. |
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Tue Apr 25th 2017
| Tuesday 1* Evening Ride | 1* |
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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.This week, we go out via Denchworth, to Lyford, then curl round to West Hanney, before heading back via Denchworth, where there is an optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride, as it is pub night., or amble straight back to Grove for those who can resist the pub. Total distance of around 9 miles. Lights recommended. |
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Report:A "swifter" 1 star ride today - a "select" group due to the cold and threat of rain, which resulted in fewer stops.At the first "pause" in Denchworth, it was suggested that the leader took a wrong turn as the pub was "the other way". Nice thought - but we resisted the temptation (and it WAS a temptation) with the proviso that the first rain would turn us back. We could see rain to the left and to the right, but managed to dodge it completely - somehow... On arriving at the pub, all felt virtuous for the effort. Drawback - for those of us cycling back to Grove - a very COLD ride back(!) Well done all - it will be warmer next week.........(!) | ||
Distance:17.54 km (10.90 mi) | ||
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Tue Apr 25th 2017
| Tuesday 2* Evening Ride | 2* |
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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.Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. This is a bridging ride at the upper level of the range to allow riders to gauge their pace and gain confidence to step up to the next star level. A longer loop in the West Vale. Out through Charney Bassett, down all the way to Fernham and back through Uffington and Goosey to the Fox. A bit faster to test the legs a little. |
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Riders:Bethany TranterDes Higgs Eddie Little Jane John John Tranter Malcolm Peck Olivia Pile Patrick Leavey Rafe Aldridge Riders = 9 Weather:Report:Not ideal cycling weather but we soldiered on. The hardest part of the ride was between Charney and Gainfield cross roads. After that it was plain sailing with a tail wind from Uffington to Denchworth. We saw evidence of heavy rain but fortunately we seemed to follow it but not riding into it. Well done all of you. A good ride on a very cold and windy night.Des. | ||
Distance:33.00 km (20.51 mi) | ||
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20524206" | ||
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Tue Apr 25th 2017
| Tuesday 3* Evening Ride | 3* |
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Leader:Jon Townsin |
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. This is a bridging ride at the upper level of the range to allow riders to gauge their pace and gain confidence to step up to the next star level. Tonight's ride takes us out past Lain's Barn, Ginges, Steventon and back via East Hanney and Denchworth for an optional bite and pint. It is 32km to Denchworth (35km to Grove) and we will be riding at the upper end of the 3 star range (24 KPH). Please bring lights with you - especially if stopping at the Fox and cycling back to Grove - which I will be doing! |
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Riders:David SmithDavid Talboys Jo Little John Groves Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Mike Cooke Sharon Bedford Terry Penn Ursula Hallam Riders = 12 Weather:Report:The weather gods provided a perfect environment to ride a little harder than usual this week! A cold evening with a noticeable breeze meant that it was vital to work hard in order to stay warm.The group worked well up the incline, past Lain's Barn and onto the Ginges, despite the glowering clouds over the Ridgeway that looked like they might drench us at any time. Fortunately (!?), as we turned north to head for Steventon, we exchanged the clouds for a brisk headwind which created a split in the group along the Haney Road. After a re-group and a chance to take on liquid, we battled onward past Lyford and through Charney Bassett toward the Fox at Denchworth (for some). At a pace of 23.4 kph in the wind I think we deserved what turned out to be a very convivial evening with riders from other the groups. Thanks and well done to all  | ||
Distance:35.40 km (22.00 mi) | ||
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20427597" | ||
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Tue Apr 25th 2017
| Tuesday 4* Evening Ride | 4* |
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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.Optional stop at The Fox in Denchworth at the end of the ride. This is a bridging ride at the UPPER level of the range to allow riders to gauge their pace and gain confidence to step up to the next star level. Given the dictat above  , in a tribute to Musical Youth (1982) and their hit "Pass the Dutchie 'pon the left hand side" I will venture to suggest that a compact and predominantly lowland route lends itself to a few "through and off" rotations once we have warmed up and the traffic has calmed? I can hear the cry of "Hup Hup" already emanating from the House of Orange  ... I'm aiming for a compact & at times rapid group ride with as few stops (for turns / traffic) as possible... as the song said "It a gonna burn"  Needless to say there is a clear necessity for functional lights and suitable gear for the weather - CURRENT FORECAST: a cold Northerly wind with a chance of a wetting. The return route will END (at 49km circa 8:10 pm depending on efficient progress) at the Fox in Denchworth for quenching purposes  . Onward journeys from there are therefore your own business  |
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Riders:Frank SchroerJason Jones Jerry Bird Louis Hall Nick Stokell Paul Jarvis Phil Ward Richard Anstis Ruth Fisher Riders = 9 Weather:Report:“Sup up your beer and collect your bikes,There's a ride going on down near Grove….” and so with apologies to The Jam, beneath threatening skies and with the mercury already falling fast, nine set out on a ride North to Eaton designed to promote a brisk and uninterrupted tempo (all good preparation for Richard’s forthcoming Ironman ). “Hello-hurrah, what a nice day, for the Eaton riders…” don’t ask me how, but we emerged 50km later, bang on a 29kph average speed without having taken a drop of rain but “refreshed” by a keen North-Westerley that showed little sign of abating, even toward dusk. “Hello-hurrah, there's a price to pay, by the Eaton riders…” bustle from the tables of the Fox greeted us, indicating prior arrival of 2 and 3 Star groups. A happy surprise of finding Le Patron, Andy Cowan stationed at the bar, keen to hear a few Tales of the Big Chain Ring set the tone and a combination of collegial warmth inside and an evening chill still to be braved made for a fine social occasion. My thanks to all for making it such an easy ride to lead whilst maintaining an undeniable accent on achieving some exercise. I conclude with the following offering from Mr Weller: “Though some of the lads said they'll be back next week…” albeit for a steadier ride of a totally different hue, lumpy leafy lanes to The Power Station, ”Some like it hot” I’m told…. | ||
Distance:49.20 km (30.57 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/14180070 | |
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| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20062260" | ||
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Sat Apr 29th 2017
| 5th Saturday Special | 3* |
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Leader:Nick Stokell |
Start Time:9:00 am |
Start Location:Woodstock 09.00 |
Description:A scenic, hilly 3* ride starting from Woodstock (Free car park by the Library on Hensington Road), based on Jack Thurston’s Lost Lanes Cotswolds route, and passing through Stow on the Wold, Slaughters, Bourton on the Water before entering the slightly flatter country of the Windrush Valley which is followed through to Burford and Minster Lovell before heading back to Woodstock.I’m deliberately avoiding stopping in Stow and Bourton which will be heaving; instead I plan an early re-fuel at Wyatts Garden Centre near the Stones (c 1030), before the lumpiest bits, and a late lunch stop at the delightful Sherborne Village Shop and Tea Room about 1400-1430. My GPS reckoned about 1300 m of climbing so it’s roughly similar in degree of difficulty to the Blowingstone Audax. Can you please text me on 07582 483315 or email me on nicknpbmd@aol.com by Wed 26 April if you plan on coming. |
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Report:Excellent company for a circuit in the Cotswolds past fields of yellow (rapeseed) and woods of blue (bluebells), with fine vistas, and some close encounters with buzzards and a fox. The roads were generally quiet outside the honeypots of Stow, Slaughters, Bourton and Burford. Just about warm enough to sit outside the Village Shop/tearoom at Sherborn for a leisurely lunch. | ||
Distance:108.00 km (67.11 mi) | Ride Details:https://RidewithGPS.com/trips/14250298 | |
| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20346275" | ||
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Sun Apr 30th 2017
| 3* Lite | 3* |
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Leader:Karen Townsin |
Start Time:9:30 am |
Start Location:WMP |
Description:This is the first in this season's series. The purpose of the 3* lite rides is to give confident 2* riders the chance to try out a 3* ride ride at the lower end of the 3* riding pace. There will be opportunities to experience riding at a faster pace on the flat and to attempt some hills. The atmosphere will be supportive and encouraging and there will be the opportunity to stop for a coffee and a natter at the end.All welcome. This week we'll warm up by riding out to Denchworth, then ascend the Ridgeway from Sparsholt. We'll return via Seven Barrows and Goosey. In all 45km/27 miles with 350m/1150ft of climbing. |
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Riders:Barry StantonDavid Talboys Jane John Jo Little John Groves John Tranter Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Karl Blake Susie Turnbull Yvonne Bird Riders = 12 Weather:Report:A late change to the route to create a complete circuit took us out through the Letcombes and threw in another hill. Nobody complained that we then lost all the height we'd gained by swooping down through Childrey before ascending the Ridgeway again from Sparsholt Firs.This was a first for some of the group and though we all agreed it was deceivingly challenging, everyone paced themselves well and reached the top in good spirits. The reward was the glorious descent towards Lambourn, before climbing back up the escarpment. The return journey through the Vale was made more testing by the string wind - an extra challenge for some who'd not been out on their bikes for a while. The group dwindled as we headed into Wantage, with 6 of us enjoying some welcome refreshment at The Bay Tree Cafe. Thanks everyone for an enjoyable ride and thanks too to Jon for sweeping.  | ||
Distance:39.00 km (24.23 mi) | Ride Details:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/14265026 | |
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| Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20212161" | ||
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- 1* - Suitable for irregular, social, beginner or family riders, pace will match the slower riders. Not hilly or long. Expect rides up to 3 hours. Gentle exercise.
- 2* - Suitable for regular riders who prefer to cover some distance but at a more relaxed pace. Likely to be half-day rides. Solid exercise.
- 3* - Suitable for experienced riders, may be hilly, long, quick, or any combination! Likely to be half or full-day rides. Challenging exercise.
- 4* - Suitable for athletic riders who can ride safely above the 3* standard. Quick rides for the fit.
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