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Sat Sep 2nd 2017

3* Saturday Afternoon Ride	3*

Leader: Jon Townsin	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. A trip to Bella's tea room in Ramsbury! Out via Chain Hill and a long, gentle descent down into Great Shefford before climbing out of the Lambourn valley at Eastbury. From there we drop down to Ramsbury for a well earned tea stop before our return route via Aldbourne and Lambourn. At 74 km this is longish ride with five climbs totalling nearly 800 m of climbing.
Riders: Andrew Layton Barry Stanton David Talboys Eddie Little Eusebio Bermejo Hugh Falkner Hugo Pile Jenny Gower Jo Little Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Karl Blake Nick Dunton Ray Wright Richard Saunders Robin Tucker Sharon Bedford Simon Atkin Terry Penn Riders = 19 Weather: Report: A fantastic late summer's afternoon brought out a bumper crop of riders for this lumpy trip into Berkshire. 19 riders including Andy and Ray from Oxfordshire and Eusebio (from Espania!) split into two manageable groups to brave the five climbs over the ridgeway and back. Richard's keenness to get at the climbs required a tug on the verbal leash to get him on the right (Chain) hill and the ride began in earnest! A sweeping descent into Great Shefford was rewarded by the second climb of the day, out of Eastbury and down the little used descent past the Boomerang stables and along to Cafe Bella in Ramsbury. It was nice to see Nicole, who had ridden out to see us and share a chat and a coffee. From Bella's we headed up Hilldrop lane for the day's third climb and a chance for Hugh (and everyone else) to get some mud on his new bike thanks to an even less used track over to Aldbourne. A fourth climb took us out of Aldbourne and down again to Lambourn before the familiar rise of Hackpen Hill delivered us back in the Vale and home. The lead group worked hard (at least I did!) to maintain an average of 23 kph and the following group also worked wonders to finish in good form. Thanks to Karen for leading the second group and to Robin and Dave for sweeping duties.
Distance: 74.00 km (45.98 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/24716285"
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Sun Sep 3rd 2017

Banbury Bumps	2*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Banbury Railway Station
Description: An awayday ride into North Oxfordshire starting from Banbury. A hilly 2-star ride of just over 40 miles partly following the old Oxfordshire Cycleway through ironstone country and the rolling hills known as the Banbury Bumps. This area has a very different feel from Southern Oxfordshire where we normally ride. We'll have lunch at the wonderfully named, The Gate Hangs High, just outside Hook Norton and an ice cream stop by the Oxford canal at Cropredy. Please let me know if you are thinking of coming to help me gauge numbers for lunch. There is a lot of parking in the centre of Banbury. Cherwell Council charge a Ã‚Â£1 flat rate on a Sunday in the long-stay car parks - I recommend Riverside to the north of the centre at the south end of Spiceball park. You can download a Car park map here. If you don't know Banbury you can find a map here.
Riders: Adrian West Des Higgs John Tranter Nick Portsmouth Richard Scrase Robin Tucker Steve Swanton Riders = 7 Weather: Report: Report to come...
Distance: 64.05 km (39.80 mi)
A welcome ice cream break on the Banbury Bumps ride. At Swalcliffe Great Barn - Banbury Bumps 3Sep17
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20492427"
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Mon Sep 4th 2017

Committee Meeting

Leader:	Start Time: 7:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Committee Meeting
Riders: John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Nicole Pethybridge Roger Postbeschild Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 7 Report:
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Tue Sep 5th 2017

Tuesday Off Road Evening 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.
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Tue Sep 5th 2017

Tuesday 1* Evening Ride	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. Sadly, our last 1* evening ride of the season. We'll make a tour of the Vale, heading out through Denchworth to Lyford and Charney Basset with a possible detour to Goosey on the way back if the light holds. Lights are recommended and you may need them for your ride home.
Riders: Andy Cowan Carin Tranter Clare Hazell Emma Hazell John Hogston Lorna Cottrell Martyn Wigmore Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 9 Weather: Report: 9 riders for our last outing of the season on what started off as a fine evening - the weather icons tell the story! It was great to see Andy Cowan back on his bike and a warm welcome to Lorna on her first ride with the club. All was fine as we made our way out to Lyford, then as we turned towards Charney we could see a large bank of grey cloud gathering ahead, which had hidden the sun. Everyone was wearing their optimists hat ("No, it's not going to rain", so we went for the Goosey detour despite the fading light (importantly everyone had good lights). As we passed the Asti stud turn and continued into Goosey, there was light rain in the air. We pulled off the road for a breather and shortly after the rain came on in earnest. Fortunately, there was a convenient hole in the bushes for shelter. After a few minutes, the sun came out from beneath the cloud and a rainbow could be seen to the East (sadly we have no icon for this!). Quickly the rain passed and we set off back towards Denchworth with a fine trail of reflected red lights on the road and the setting sun behind us. After some respite on the ride back to Denchworth, alas amongst the deepening gloom, a further shower caught us and it really was quite wet for the final 2 miles home. Riders peeled off as we came into Grove calling out their goodbyes as they headed off. Thanks everyone for your good humour in the face of the changing conditions. So a soggy end to the Tuesday season, but don't forget that our monthly Easy Saturday rides continue throughout the year to which all are welcome. See you soon...
Distance: 18.51 km (11.50 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/17505691
1 Carin sheltering in the bushes - Tues 1* Sep17
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Tue Sep 5th 2017

Tuesday 2* Evening Ride	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: 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. The final 2* ride of the Tuesday evening summer series. Where to go? White Horse Hill was of course tempting, but I have decided to be kind and go for the classic ride up Hackpen Hill, down the other side and back via Nine Barrows to the great descent of Blowingstone Hill, Kingston Lisle and back through the Vale. 24 miles / 38km at our usual pace of 12-13 mph / 19-21 kph.
Riders: Brian Hipwell Des Higgs John Tranter Karl Blake Robert Treadgold (deceased) Steve Joyce Susan Holdroyd Susie Turnbull Val Smith Riders = 9 Weather: Report: A good group and an optimistic route planned. All went well to start with, and Holborn and Hackpen Hills were dealt with quite swiftly. Sadly, as we headed over the Ridgeway and towards Lambourn the heavens opened and we had some pretty serious rain and cross winds to deal with on a very exposed road. Karl had gone on ahead, but we took a group decision to turn back towards lower and safer roads. We dropped down to Sparsholt and then worked our way to Denchworth and home. It was good to see Karl waiting for us at Millbrook, having also turned back on a different routing. Bedraggled, damp but happy - I think this sums it up! It was a great group and summed up the really good team spirit we have seen on the Tuesday 2* rides all season. Thanks to all for making it such fun.
Distance: 30.58 km (19.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/17469248
Conquering Holborn Hill Conquering Holborn Hill Conquering Holborn Hill A lovely sunset and torrential rain at the same time.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/24764416"
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Tue Sep 5th 2017

Tuesday 3* Evening Ride	3*

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. As this is the last Tuesday road ride of the season, we'll take a trip out to visit White Horse hill, one last time. With the exception of the emblematic climb the 37km route is as flat as a flat thing (apart from a bit of the Springline!) - out via Childrey and Westcot and back via Uffington and Goosey . The nights are shortening so lights are essential for the latter part of the ride.
Riders: Adrian West Alex McGregor David Smith David Talboys Eddie Little Hugo Pile Jane John Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce Nicole Pethybridge Roger Turnbull Sharon Bedford Ursula Hallam Yvonne Bird Riders = 16 Weather: Report: A seemingly mild September evening brought out the crowds for the last Tuesday ride of the 2017 season. A group of 16 riders suggested an early split into two groups, so thanks to Karen, Katherine, Jane and David for volunteering for second ride / sweeping duties. A brisk trip to White Horse Hill seemed an appropriate way to end the season and all was going fine until we reached our destination - which was shrouded in drizzle (a portent of what was to come!). As the first group reached the bottom a glimmer of sun appeared on the horizon - but too late to enjoy (the second group got the full benefit I'm told). On the homeward stretch through Uffington, the wind got up, the clouds gathered and the rain began to fall. The second half of the ride was focused on 'getting back' but not without the chance to chat and enjoy the company - thanks to everyone. All arrived back safe and sound with no mechanicals - just a bit cold and wet!!! Roll on next summer....
Distance: 37.00 km (22.99 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/24893484"
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Tue Sep 5th 2017

Tuesday 4* Evening 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. *Officially the final ride of the Season * A shorter ride distance due to reduced light However still plenty of climbing 528 metres over 43k We tackle Easton lane climb then descend Hackpen, through the Letcombes up Court hill across to Chain hill for the final descent into Wantage and home.
Riders: Frank Schroer Jason Jones Nick Fisher Paul Jarvis Peter Cowan Riders = 5 Report: The CUK 2017 Season final 4ride Yours truly was running late so thankfully the riders waited happy to have a chat. We set of at a steady pace passing the 2 and 3 before Challow, quickly dispatched Eastmanton lane climb re grouping then descending Hackpen through the Letcombes climbing Cort hill. By this time the sky darkened, wind picked up and the heavens opened ! Here comes the rain again ,Falling on my head like a memory, Falling on my head like a new emotion ( Eurythmics ) Back to the report It was everyman for themselves I was well and truly dropped but somehow managed to be ahead descending Chain hill !However I was soon passed by all in the heavy rain and reduced light A enjoyable if in grim weather conditions Thanks all who ventured out tonight and throughout the season Hoping to see you all next year Happy and safe cycling to all
Distance: 43.00 km (26.72 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/1170026893/
Proposed Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/10025060"
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Thu Sep 7th 2017

Thursday Evening Pub Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: The return of the sociable pub rides takes us on a gentle 2* trip out to a local pub, the identity of which will be revealed only on arrival. A drink and a meal will fuel the return journey but don't forget your lights and a lock!
Riders: Des Higgs Karl Blake Riders = 2 Report:
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Sat Sep 9th 2017

Tour of Britain 3*	3*

Leader: Louis Hall	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: A visit to see the Tour of Britain pass through Charlbury. The route follows many of the lanes of the Harlequin Hack ridden earlier this year. Given the fairly flat nature of the outward leg we will expect to cover the first 50 kms to Charlbury at a healthy 24kph at the top of 3*. That should give us plenty of time in Charlbury to forage for lunch and see the fast guys whizz past. After Dyers Hill, straight out of Charlbury, it's mostly down hill. Democracy in action (and success finding lunch) will determine whether we fuel up at the ubiquitous Aston Pottery before the bump up to Buckland and run back into Grove.
Riders: Andrew Small David Smith Eusebio Bermejo John Vandore Joy Arthur Louis Hall Ursula Hallam Riders = 7 Weather: Report: It should have been simple - 7 well matched riders zipping along to Charlbury to see the professional peleton and nipping back before the afternoon showers. As it turned out, there were a few variations. The ride leader had not loaded the route onto his Garmin and went off track before Stanton Harcourt - fortunately a mixture of David's Garmin and the ride leader's back up paper cue sheets allowed steady progress. It rained! Some of us turned into trembly cocktail shakers waiting for the delayed peleton. However, we soon warmed up on the hill out of Charlbury. The ride leader (him again) got his chain trapped between the big cogs. We were just about to use David's spare link, yes him again, when the ** ride came by and Eddie magically produced an Allen key that fixed the problem. Don't get me wrong, it was an enjoyable ride.
Distance: 97.00 km (60.27 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/23540437"
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Sat Sep 9th 2017

Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Crowmarsh Gifford, outside Primary School OX10 8EN
Description: We'll start along Grim's Ditch - a brilliant mile of singletrack built by the Vikings (Grim is a name for Odin). Then we'll hammer up the hills like Thor and ride down like Valkyries. Or something. Actually, this may be a bit more of an IKEA ride, because I will assemble it as we go along depending on the group and weather to maximise the enjoyment for all General description: Monthly off-road ride for those who like their rides bumpy and (sometimes) muddy on second Saturday mornings. The rides will be about 20 miles, mostly off-road, and aim to finish in time for a late lunch (whether together or heading for home). We adjust the ride to suit the riders and the weather, but in general the terrain will be rough, so a mountain-bike in good condition and with knobbly tyres is recommended.
Riders: David Brown Katherine Cook Robin Tucker Riders = 3 Weather: Report: Wow, what a ride! We saw some great parts of the Chilterns but it was quite muddy in places. As promised, we started and ended with Grim's Ditch - always a favourite! Then a bit of road and a big climb up to Cookley Green. From there we ran downhill on a gentle sloped twisting trail for a good 2 miles! Of course, we paid in climbing partly in advance and partly afterwards, so we decided to stop for coffee and cakes at The Field Kitchen in Nettle bed. Yum Then we set off of the second half of our loop, a bit muddier than the first, but we kept going! It included the excellent run down through Hammond's Wood just north of Woodcote. A few drops of rain, just as we returned on Grim's Ditch. All tired, all smiles
Distance: 41.84 km (26.00 mi)
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Sat Sep 9th 2017

Tour of Britain ride 2*	2*

Leader: Karen Townsin	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: A visit to see the Tour of Britain pass through Charlbury, following much of the Harlequin Hack route, ridden earlier this year. This is a long ride - approx. 94km/58miles - but it is lovely route with just a few easy climbs, and with a planned stop at Cogges Manor Farm for tea at 30km/18 miles and the stop at Charlbury to watch the race fly by at 46km/28 miles, it is manageable for any confident riders who would like to ride further than normal at 2* pace. We can also plan to stop on the way back at Aston Pottery at approx 70km/43 miles.
Riders: Barry Stanton Des Higgs Eddie Little Jo Little Karen Townsin Karl Blake Nigel Hughes Robert Treadgold (deceased) Riders = 8 Weather: Report: This is the first time we've run two different group rides to the same destination, so it was great to see it well supported. After picking up Rob in Charney Bassett, the group made excellent progress to our early stop at Cogges Manor Farm - shame the service wasn't quite so speedy! Then the roads became a little more undulating as we approached Charlbury; in fact our group roused a tongue-in-cheek cheer and applause from the gathering crowd as we raced up the hill into the village. We found a great spot taking in the slight rise and the sharp bend - a spot we (I) fiercely defended! It was all done in good spirit and the atmosphere and banter between cyclists and spectators made the time pass quickly. As we peered anxiously down the hill for the arrival of the breakaway group, we could see menacing clouds approaching and sure enough, a sharp shower drenched us and the plummeting temperature took its toll. It was worth it though to see the TOB riders finally rolling through. All too soon, the cavalcade had passed and it was time to get the legs moving again on what was the lumpiest section of the ride. Everyone managed the lumps and bumps well, only stopping to lend a hand with Louis's trapped chain using Eddie's nifty allen key. As we approached Aston, the heavens opened again, so it seemed a good time to stop and warm up/dry out at Aston Pottery. The final leg was accomplished easily and without incident. Thanks all for your company and strong group riding, and congratulations to Rob on completing his longest ever ride.
Distance: 91.00 km (56.54 mi)
3* group arriving for TOB in Charlbury Motorcyclist announcing imminent arrival of TOB riders Posing in Charlbury for TOB 2017 The Sky Train - Tour of Britain 2017 Orica Scott with Caleb Ewan =- Tour of Britain 2017 Charlbury Cav in Charlbury - Tour of Britain 2017
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/23540437"
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1

Written by : Edmund

Posted on : September 10, 2017 at 10:41 PM

It was good to meet you all!

Tue Sep 12th 2017

Tuesday Off Road Evening Ride	2*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15-20 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders. 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 Brown Richard Pethybridge Riders = 2 Weather: Report: Just two intrepid MTBers out this evening, with a rare appearance by Richard P to accompany regular Dave B. With inclement weather forecast the route was out via the canal to Childrey and then Sparsholt. A climb to the Ridgeway followed up to Collett Bush, and then as the heavens opened we followed the Ridegeway as far as Gramp's Hill. A carefully swift descent down a soaking and rapidly darkening road followed, before we returned to Grove via the Letcombes and Wantage. Just over 15 miles but discretion was definitely the better part of valour with 40mph winds forecast.
Distance: 24.78 km (15.40 mi)
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Sat Sep 16th 2017

Easy Saturday afternoon ride from Grove	1*

Leader: Steve Boreham	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. This afternoon, plan is to head out to Goosey, via Denchworth, the curl round via Challow Station, up to Childrey. Here we can recharge ourselves by the pond before heading across the track back to East Challow to Wantage. Here, a possible stunning cut through to the Route 44 to West Lockinge & Betterton before up over the hill and down to Ardington for the well-earned tea stop. I time-honoured Autumn fashion it is then a short hop back to Grove past Lains Barn. Round Trip of about 15 miles.
Riders: Andy Cowan Karl Blake Lorna Swanton Martyn Wigmore Michael Tayler Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Tony Botto Riders = 8 Weather: Report: Jury was out re the turnout after mixed weather reports. In the end, 8 riders, including new rider Tony Botto (Benvenuto Tony) set out and were rewarded with sunshine & outside tea stop! Having called the cafe with numbers & E.T.A., we set out. Leader conscious that we may be pushed to meet tea stop, so pace was stretched a little, early on. The initial one star "pause" in Denchworth was skipped. We did, however, stop and relax by the pond in Childrey - with the obligatory photo or two. Moving on, we enjoyed stunning view from the track back to Challow, before passing through Wantage - giving the cafe revised E.T.A.!!, and on to route 44. The sun continued... with time pressing we skipped the dogleg via Betterton - taking the shorter cut from Lockinge to Ardington. We were "relegated" to sitting outside, but was good news as the weather stayed good, and the service was excellent, with a table for 8 - perfect! Good discussions over tea, with good debate about cycle helmets!. Then a very relaxed last 4 miles back to Grove, just as it began to rain (phew). A lovely afternoon out. Thank you all.
Distance: 28.16 km (17.50 mi)
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Sun Sep 17th 2017

2/3 Midsomer Murders Ride	2*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 1:30 pm	Start Location: Wallingford Market Place
Description: This is a themed local ride of around 35 miles visiting a number of locations that will be familiar to any of you that don't hide behind the sofa for "Midsomer Murders". The ride will leave Causton (Wallingford) Market Place at 13:30 and as no episode would be complete without a killer, so this ride will feature the killer climb of "Angel's Rise". We'll stop for refreshments about half-way round, but as with all good mysteries, the plot (route) will gradually unfold. Expect a riding pace at the top end of 2/low end 3 but with a number of location stops along the way. Our guide and ride leader will be Peter Wood from CTC Wallingford. However, please let Steve know if you are planning to come to help gauge numbers. The ride will start from the Market Place outside the Tourist Information Office. The nearby Goldsmiths Lane long-stay car park (OX10 0DS) is free on Sundays.
Riders: Andy Ellis Brian Hipwell Christine Ellis Nigel Hughes Steve Swanton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon's riding with the Wallingford group.
Distance: 54.00 km (33.55 mi)
Ride briefing in Causton Market Place - Midsomer Murders Ride Sep17 Heading for Angel's Ride -Midsomer Murders Ride Sep17 Brian atop Angel's Ride, Midsomer Murders Ride Sep17 Cream tea stop at The Fox & Hounds, Christmas Common "Causton" Library - Midsomer Murders Ride Sep17 The Cricket green at Wrborough features regularly - Midsomer Murders Ride Sep17 ... as does the Six Bells - Midsomer Murders Ride Sep17
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Tue Sep 19th 2017

Tuesday Off Road Evening Ride	2*

Leader: David Brown	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 - 20 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 Brown John Davies Riders = 2 Report:
Distance: 24.14 km (15.00 mi)
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Sat Sep 23rd 2017

2* Saturday Afternoon Ride	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. Thinking about cafes we haven't visited lately, Saddleback Farm was one that sprung to mind, so we'll head out through the Letcombes, over Hackpen into Lambourn. From there we'll follow the Lambourn Valley to Boxford, then begin the climb back up the escarpment through Leckhampstead and Brightwalton. After tea, at 50km/30 miles, we'll head down Chain Hill and back to Grove. This is a hilly ride with in excess of 500m/1600ft of climbing over 58Km/36 miles, with the familiar Hackpen Hill being the longest and steepest.
Riders: Brian Hipwell David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith Jo Little John Groves Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Karl Blake Nigel Hughes Stephanie Haddrell Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 13 Weather: Report: A baker's dozen (well, we were cycling past the 'home of the bake-off') set off from OMH in unexpected, warm sunshine. So warm in fact that we were soon discarding layers/regretting clothing choices as we made our way through the Letcombes and up Hackpen Hill. The annoying headwind meant that we had to pedal down some of the descent into Lambourn, before turning along the valley road. After a pause in The Swan carpark we pushed on through Boxford, Leckhampstead and Brightwalton. Tea at Saddleback was perfect as we were able to sit outside and watch the deer in the distance, who were enjoying the sunshine as much as us. Service was quick too. A last blast down chain hill and a cut through Wantage (new to me; thanks Steve & Des) brought us back to Grove by 16:45. Thanks everyone for an enjoyable ride and thanks Jon and Steve for sweeping duties.
Distance: 56.00 km (34.80 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/17909951
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/25377302"
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Tue Sep 26th 2017

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: David Yearley	Start Time: 7:00 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: *Please note revised start time and place* Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 - 20 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 Brown Robin Tucker Riders = 2 Report:
Distance: 27.36 km (17.00 mi)
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Fri Sep 29th 2017

Weekend France Tour	3*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 8:15 pm	Start Location: Portsmouth Docks
Description: The club will be organising a repeat of last year's very successful weekend trip to France at the end of September/beginning of October, taking the Friday evening ferry across from Portsmouth to St Malo, arriving early on Saturday morning. An outline route follows the coast eastbound before turning inland and heading up for an overnight stay in Vire. On the Sunday the route goes via Caen down to the coast and the return ferry from Ouistreham. Full details are as follows: Fri 29 Sep - Depart Portsmouth 2015. Cost - Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£80 for 2 people, plus Ãƒï¿œÃ¯Â¿Å“Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£55 for a twin berth cabin. Free parking will be available in Portsmouth courtesy of the Royal Navy! Sat 30 Sep - Arrive St Malo 0815. Ride to Vire. Distance approx 120km, with approx 1,000m of climbing. Stay overnight in Vire. Potential hotel accommodation in the Hotel Saint-Pierre at approx Euro 68 for a twin/double room Sun 1 Oct - Cycle to the coast via Caen (and hopefully the Cafe Gondree at Pegasus Bridge, for D-Day aficionados). Distance 80km, with approx 750m of climbing. Catch the 1630 ferry to Portsmouth, arriving 2115. Again about Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£80 for 2 people, cabins Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£21. Anyone interested in going is requested to contact Richard Pethybridge (07875 456521 or pethybridgera@yahoo.co.uk) as soon as possible so that he can make an assessment of feasibility. Travel and accommodation is the responsibility of individuals, and early booking is recommended as it will be cheaper. Accommodation is limited, and early responses would be much appreciated. Outline routes are as follows for those interested : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/21849909 https://ridewithgps.com/routes/21849919
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/21849909"
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Sat Sep 30th 2017

France Tour day 1	3*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 8:00 am	Start Location: St Malo
Description: The club will be organising a repeat of last year's very successful weekend trip to France at the end of September/beginning of October, taking the Friday evening ferry across from Portsmouth to St Malo, arriving early on Saturday morning. An outline route follows the coast eastbound before turning inland and heading up for an overnight stay in Vire. On the Sunday the route goes via Caen down to the coast and the return ferry from Ouistreham. Full details are as follows: Fri 29 Sep Depart Portsmouth 2015. Cost Â£80 for 2 people, plus Â£55 for a twin berth cabin. Free parking will be available in Portsmouth courtesy of the Royal Navy! Sat 30 Sep Arrive St Malo 0815. Ride to Vire. Distance approx 120km, with approx 1,000m of climbing. Stay overnight in Vire. Potential hotel accommodation in the Hotel Saint-Pierre at approx Ã‚Â¬68 for a twin/double room Sun 1 Oct Cycle to the coast via Caen (and hopefully the Cafe Gondree at Pegasus Bridge, for D-Day aficionados). Distance 80km, with approx 750m of climbing. Catch the 1630 ferry to Portsmouth, arriving 2115. Again about Â£80 for 2 people, cabins Â£21. Anyone interested in going is requested to contact Richard Pethybridge (07875 456521 or pethybridgera@yahoo.co.uk) as soon as possible so that he can make an assessment of feasibility. Travel and accommodation is the responsibility of individuals, and early booking is recommended as it will be cheaper. Accommodation is limited, and early responses would be much appreciated. Outline routes are as follows for those interested:
Riders: David Bridge Eddie Little Jan McCabe Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Neil Bridge Nicole Pethybridge Richard Pethybridge Riders = 10 Weather: Report: After a pleasant night on the ferry that was bouncy for some but calm for others the group arrived in St Malo as the sun was rising. French immigration was a little chaotic but the group was soon making its way across town and heading for the coast on the other side of the peninsular. As we followed the coast we enjoyed a light wind from behind, clearing clouds and increasing sunshine, and occasional glimpses of Mont St Michel to keep us motivated. Timing proved perfect at the coffee stop, with us arriving just as the cafe owner was opening up. Refreshed by delicious cafe creme and some lovely patisserie from the blue laundry next door, we made our way towards the first of the "Voies Vertes" green routes. Crossing the Couesnon river we turned north towards the Mont. Unlike last year the causeway to the island was closed to cycles and so we had to put up with a more distant but no less impressive view. Heading east again we followed the coast before turning inland for lunch. That turned out to be something of an adventure, as the planned restaurant was closed and we had to find an alternative. That involves an extra hill but "Les Martinaises" proved to be an excellent alternative with a very tasty and good value Plat du Jour. The afternoon saw more voies vertes following some old railway lines, and much more climbing. Some slippery mud and some narrow gaps interacting with wide panniers caused a couple of tumbles, but luckily no injuries. John T takes the prize for the best roll from a falling bicycle. With the weather becoming greyer we were all pleased to see Vire when we finally arrived. The hotel was as welcoming as last year and with excellent bike parking. The day finished with a most convivial and highly tasty meal at "Le Robbery" restaurant.
Distance: 123.92 km (77.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://runkeeper.com/user/RNVasco/activity/1062392346?activityList=false&
On the ferry from Portsmouth Ride start in St Malo Sunny cafe stop in Cherreuix Along the Eurovelo 4 route Towards Mont St Michel The group at Mont St Michel More "Voies Vertes" towards Vire Jon enjoying a well earned beer! Dinner in "Le Robbery"
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/21849909"
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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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