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Sat Sep 1st 2018

Isle of Wight Special	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 8:00 am	Start Location: Lymington
Description: UPDATE 5th August: there has been so much interest in this ride that we are going to do 2 groups with a maximum of 12 riders for each. Currently there are a maximum of 5 places left. One group, led by Katherine Boyce will catch the ferry at 0740. The second group will be led by John Tranter and leave at 0840. Katherine is setting up a Whatsapp group for the ride. If you have asked to go on the ride and haven't got whatsapp, Katherine will contact you with details of how to join. If you are joining after this date, Katherine will add you. As we need to have even numbers in the 2 groups, you may have to be given a group if they need evening up Based on the ride that John Talbot did for many years, this uses what I think was the nicest of the rides he did. Although this is just over a 100km riding with just shy of 1400m of climbing, done at the right pace, this is a very accessible ride that takes in the best of the Isle of Wight. Glorious views, swooping hills and a ferry ride at Cowes (Ãƒï¿œÃ¯Â¿Å“Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£1), what more could you ask for . PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO COME NUMBERS ARE LIMITED TO 12 We will catch the 08:40 ferry from Lymington Pier (SO41 5SB). We will travel as day return foot passengers (Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£16.40 for adults and Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£12.30 for 60+, tickets can be bought online in advance or at the ticket office before sailing), bikes are carried free of charge. The crossing takes 40 minutes. There is a pay and display car park at the ferry terminal (Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â£6.70 for 2-16hrs). Bring enough change for the machines or alternatively you can use Ringgo up to 3days before to pay for your ticket, see here http://www.wightlink.co.uk/go/isle-of-wight-ferry-routes-destinations/lymington-yarmouth-ferry/. You must arrive at least 30mins before the ferry to allow time for parking, buying tickets and boarding. Boarding commences 15 minutes before sailing. We will car share as much as possible. There is limited food on the ferry (tea, coffee, cakes, toast) but there is a cafe at the ferry terminal if you want to arrive early enough to grab some breakfast! We'll stop at the Old World Tea Rooms in Godshill for a late morning cuppa/comfort break. Lunch stop will be at the Toll Gate Cafe next to the harbour in Bembridge. We'll aim to stop for an afternoon tea/ice cream and comfort break at Cowes dependant on the time. Return ferry will either be the 17:05 or 18:05 from Yarmouth. I've provided last years route below, this may change in the coming month.
Riders: David Talboys James Bosley Jane John Jenny Gower Jerry Bird Joy Arthur Julie Haynes Katherine Boyce Sharon Bedford Terry Penn Yvonne Bird Riders = 11 Weather: Report: With 19 riders wanting to ride round the Island this year, we did 2 groups, this is the early group report and hopefully John Tranter (who led the later group) will report too (see second ride entry) . 11 of us assembled at the ferry, 8 of us having seen the sun rise over the Ridgeway and 3 cycling from stays in Lymington. There wasn't much traffic on the ferry and we soon were on our way - the early roller coaster to the stunning views of Allum Bay and Old Harry's Rock in Dorset. That set the tone for the day - beautiful views, fantastic tarmac, blue skies and a happy group. Not a peep about the niggling headwind or the steep initial climbs. The steepest climb at Black Gang Chime was conquered and then a glorious swoop and potter through the lovely little villages that are such a feature of the Isle of Wight. Being early we could not use the usual cafÃƒÂ© at Godshill, instead we found Worsleys - the consensus was this was even better than the normal place despite not being able to sit outside - excellent service and wonderful cakes . It seemed a very short hop to Bembridge and lunch - the views at the Tollgate CafÃƒÂ© as good as ever. There was even some paddling undertaken. With a short sharp climb straight after lunch, the legs were soon warmed up. The spectre of the A3055 struck again and Dave had a small mechanical, soon sorted. The Cowes Floating Bridge was running (unlike last Saturday when it broke down) and thanks to Sharon, we all had the right money ready. A lovely ice cream stop watching the boats on the Solent and then we were on the final stretch and reached the ferry with plenty of time - by going in to the port the wrong way, we got led to the right spot by an employee in a golf buggy - the Pied Piper of cyclists who luckily only led us to the ferry . Doing this ride after the Bank Holiday was very successful - far less traffic and quieter stops. Another great ride with a lovely, supportive group.
Distance: 108.70 km (67.54 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/1813254258/
Obligatory Ice-cream IoW2018 Early Group Where have all the rides gone - IoW 2018 Early Group
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/20630717"
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Written by : Karen T

Posted on : September 2, 2018 at 8:36 AM

Thanks so much for all your efforts in organising this. I know it was a bit of a headache logistically, but I had a brilliant day and all your plans/decisions seemed to work out perfectly. Well done. :D

Sat Sep 1st 2018

Isle of Wight II	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 7:30 am	Start Location: Lymington
Description: The second wave
Riders: David Bridge Eddie Little Jan McCabe Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Karl Blake Riders = 8 Weather: Report: This is the report for the second group on the road. It was actually quite a fun idea to be the chase group - it was interesting to wonder how we were doing and whether we might just catch each other at some point. But, it wasn't to be, although we were told in Bembridge that we arrived at the cafe 15 minutes after Group 1 had left! Echoing Katherine's words, it was a glorious day which began well with moody mist over the Ridgeway and just got better. The route was as good as ever, with that strange feeling that you are stepping back in time when you get to the Island. The headwind was a niggle for the first half, but not too much of a problem. We were able to use the Old World Tea Gardens in Godshill and the cream teas were as good as ever. The service was efficient and we were soon on our way for the hop to Bembridge for a good lunch. Cowes was quirky but fun as always and the ice cream stop was chosen over a possible (but optimistic) option of racing for the earlier ferry. It was definitely the right choice, as we were able to enjoy the last few miles and not stress over timing. Thanks to all for a most wonderful day out.
Distance: 109.00 km (67.73 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/27316559
Isle of Wight 2018 Isle of Wight 2018 Isle of Wight 2018 Isle of Wight 2018 Isle of Wight 2018 Isle of Wight 2018 Isle of Wight 2018 Isle of Wight 2018
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Tue Sep 4th 2018

Tuesday evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: All too soon our last Tuesday evening ride of the season. With limited daylight, we will finish with a flat ride around the Vale visiting Lyford, Charney Bassett and Goosey before returning via Asti stud and Denchworth. A round trip of about 11 miles. Aiming to be back in Grove by sunset, but lights are required in case of any delays. Our leisurely and sociable 10-mile club rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of about 10 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way.
Riders: Carin Tranter Diana Whidborne Douglas Gunn John Hogston Kirsty Gunn Lorna Swanton Martyn Wigmore Steve Swanton Riders = 8 Weather: Report: A cooler evening with a breeze and a slightly autumnal feel for our last Tuesday evening outing of the season. Eight regulars were keen to make the most of it and we did. After brief stops in Denchworth, Lyford and Charney Bassett, we continued on to Goosey green where Martyn led a small group over to the church to admire the weather vane. As the evening light faded, bike lights were required for the last stretch home. There was a distinct drop in temperature too. Back at OMH just before 8 after an enjoyable spin. Thanks everyone. Our 1* rides do of course continue throughout the year - please keep an eye on the website for details. Hope to see you all again soon.
Distance: 19.15 km (11.90 mi)
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Tue Sep 4th 2018

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. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. UPDATE: OK, apologies but I have changed my mind. I think without full sunshine, a 2* pace to the White Horse and back is going to get us back in too much darkness. So - we will end the Tuesday 2* season with a nice mellow ride around the north Vale. Out to Charney Bassett, through Pusey, Hinton Waldrist and Longworth before taking the bridge over the A420 to Southmoor and back down everyone's favourite smooth road to Lyford or Hanney (depending on time) before heading home via Denchworth. We shouldn't be out in total darkness, but it will definitely be getting dark so good lights will be essential. 19 miles.
Riders: Brian Hipwell Clare Hazell David Jackson Des Higgs Gareth Smith Jan McCabe John Tranter Karl Blake Michael Tayler Olga Meadows Roger Postbeschild Stephanie Haddrell Steve Joyce Susie Turnbull Tony Clark Val Smith Riders = 16 Weather: Report: An enthusiastic and large group gathered for the last Tuesday 2* ride of the season. A big welcome to Olga riding with us for the first time (although it seems there were some nice cross-over connections from the running club!). Thanks also to Roger for leading a second group on those sections of the route that warranted it. Everything went very smoothly, except for an encounter with a very aggressive motorist north of Pusey. We took a little detour into the centre of Hinton Waldrist and (just) managed to resist popping down to Duxford ford or taking the bridleway across to the back of Littlemore - we'll save those for another time! The crossing of the A420 bridge at Southmoor was nice and easy and we enjoyed the smooth tarmac down to West Hanney before heading for Grove in the gathering gloom. A very enjoyable end to the Tuesday season!
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/27421839
A great big 2* selfie at the end of the Tuesday season.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/21888665"
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Tue Sep 4th 2018

Tuesday Evening 3* 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. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. OK, for the last of these season's Tuesday evening rides we will head out to White Horse Hill for one last sunset (hopefully!). Due to light and time pressures we'll take the shortest route out via Denchworth, Goosey, Baulking lane and Uffington, returning pretty much the same route in reverse. At 35k this should get us back before 20.00 shortly after sunset. However, lights will be essential in case of delays to the return.
Riders: Andy Pixton David Talboys Eddie Little James Bosley Jane John Jon Townsin Joy Arthur Julie Haynes Louis Hall Mike Cooke Paul Bentley Roger Turnbull Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 14 Report: A group of 14 of us turned out for the last Tuesday 3* of the season on a cooler but nice riding evening. A little too big for one group, we split into two for a fairly fast (24kph) first leg to Uffington. All riders in my group, kept up a good pace whilst managing to maintain healthy conversations ! Thanks to Eddie for leading the second group. The groups merged on the ascent of White Horse Hill with a fight for the polkadot jersey seemingly between James, Andy and Louis - I was too far back to see who claimed it! The sun was visible on the climb only to disappear when we reached the top. That didn't stop stem the enthusiastic mood as the photo demonstrates! A swift return the way we came along Baulking Lane and back to Grove as the light was beginning to fade. A lovely way to round off the season. Thanks to all.
An enthusiastic arrival at White Horse Hill
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28513197"
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Tue Sep 4th 2018

Tuesday Evening 4* Ride	4*

Leader: Nick Fisher	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. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours ride at a riding pace of 25-29km/h (16-18mph). May be hilly. Still keen to stretch out the evenings, so a slightly longer route, but with no significant hills. So we'll aim to maintain a good pace in the early part of the ride through the lanes, giving us a buffer later on. Lights will be needed for the latter section, so please come prepared!
Riders: Andy Cowan Frank Schroer Jason Jones Nick Fisher Peter Cowan Philip Ingles Sian Mitchell Riders = 7 Report: Last ride of the season, and a wonderful group to spend it with. We stuck together well, holding a steady pace through the villages north of Wantage, before climbing up through Boars Hill and then down the other side into Sunningwell. Through Abingdon and the exposed section of the ride through Culham to Clifton Hampden, but we all tucked in and made short work of it. Darkness was drawing in by the time we came off the Wittenham Clumps, and we took it upon ourselves to escort back to Didcot a cyclist who was under-prepared in the illumination department (and possibly planning/common sense). Back via Hagbourne Hill and Harwell Campus, then a final run into Wantage via Ardington. Thanks all - keep the legs primed over the winter, ready for spring!
Distance: 72.42 km (45.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28467307"
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Tue Sep 4th 2018

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: David Brown	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any 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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Thu Sep 6th 2018

Committee Meeting

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 7:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description:
Riders: Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Sara Ward Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 6 Report:
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Sat Sep 8th 2018

Historic churches ride	2*

Leader: Gareth Smith	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: This Saturday sees the annual Oxfordshire Ride and Stride event in aid of the Oxfordshire Historic Churches Trust (further details can be found at: https://ohct.org.uk/ride-stride/ ). On the day over 500 churches and chapels in Oxfordshire are open to welcome visitors and the idea is to either stride or ride (awheel or ahoof) to visit as many as you like. It is a great opportunity to visit some of our local historic churches, some of which are rarely open to the public Many provide refreshments. Having led a ride from Grove with friends (including members of the club) for a number of years, this year Steve Swanton and I thought we would run it as a club ride. So the plan is for an all-day ride at the easier end of 2* with (obviously) a lot of stops. Some will be brief and some longer depending on particular points of interest and the temptation of refreshments. We plan to start as per usual at 9:30 from OMH with our first stop at the small church in West Challow. From there we'll climb to the springline to visit Childrey, Sparsholt and Kingston Lisle before dropping down to Uffington, where there will be refreshments in St. Mary's church all day. From Uffington, we plan an anti-clockwise tour of the western Vale and its historic churches. We can pick up refreshments on the way with a possible lunch stop at the Rose and Crown in Ashbury. If we complete the whole route, we can visit up to 23 churches, but there are a number of short-cut options. Although participants are encouraged to seek sponsorship, we normally make a donation. This is split between the OHCT and a church you can nominate. Please contact Steve (07857 527990) or Gareth (07817 701644) for more information. It's an interesting and fun day out and a very social day awheel. Do join us for some or all of the day.
Riders: David Bridge Eddie Little Gareth Smith John Hogston Mike Bailey Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 7 Report: As advertised this was an unusual ride which made use of the opportunity to visit many churches in the Vale as part of the "Ride and Stride" event. Steve Swanton had come up with a good route which meant that participants could do all or part of the ride -which was what happened. We made good use of the opportunities to look round the churches which often had people present who could point out the interesting features. One highlight was a chance to go up the church tower at Shrivenham. Lunch was had at Woolstone and drinks and biscuits were available at most of the churches - I will have put on significant weight despite a day's cycling. The main group got as far west as Hinton Parva and the time spent looking round the churches meant we didn't get back until around 7pm. This event is one of my favourite days of the year - and this years ride and company didn't disappoint. Even the weather stayed pretty dry - the forecast rain didn't appear.
Distance: 70.81 km (44.00 mi)
At Woolstone Church
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28504807"
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Written by : Eddie Little

Posted on : September 8, 2018 at 10:39 PM

Thank you Gareth & Steve for a very memorable day!!

Sun Sep 9th 2018

Easy on a Sunday morning Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: Regular off-road rides for 2018 we are toning these down and keeping them closer to Wantage. Free parking at The Beacon, and meet at Wantage Market Place, by King Alfred. The rides will be 15-20 miles, on quiet local tracks through the woods, and maybe up to the Ridgeway. Pace equivalent to 2*, best on a mountain bike, but a cyclocross bike and if dry a robust hybrid will be fine. Call/email Robin if you would like to know more.
Riders: Amanda Seddon Barry Baker David Lynch Richard Ashford Robin Tucker Riders = 5 Weather: Report: After a very wintery winter and our extraordinary summer heatwave, it has been pleasant to start autumn with seasonally appropriate, but not extreme, weather. It was a little bit breezy, colder â€“ but only until the first climb, and there were some grey clouds around â€“ but they didnâ€™t actually drop any rain on us, as we rode out from Wantage to a little beyond Harwell and back. The dry weather and occasional rain have put the trails in top condition: firm, with hoofprints mostly smoothed out. With five of us out who had all ridden more than a few times over the summer, I slightly extended the ride to go down the back of the Ridgeway for an extra descent (and climb). We started up Lark Hill and Bitham Woods, then dropped down 'Ice Valley' to Lands End. Almost straight away, we were climbing again back to Scutchamer's Knob - Amanda calls this one 'Puddles' but thankfully there were none. Then we turned East and the wind turned out to be more southerly than westerly (so a side wind) as we headed along the Ridgeway and eventually under the A34. After this, we turned down another nice descent, then picked up the trail into Chilton, past Harwell Campus and with a diversion through the woods, back to Wantage. We clocked a total of 21 miles. Checking afterwards, the series seems to have achieved its aim of providing some gentle and sociable off-road rides to contrast with more â€˜hardcoreâ€™ options.
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)
Off-Road Easy on a Sunday morning Sep 2018
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Tue Sep 11th 2018

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
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.
Riders: Bruce Winney Jason Jones John Davies Robin Tucker Steve Legate Riders = 5 Report: First ride since the road rides stopped and we switched to Wantage Market Place. And the first where we really needed proper lighting on the route. It was also a bit mizzly for that proper autumn feel. But we came down Ginge descent just the same while the trail is still dry. The beer afterwards tasted extra good!
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)
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Sat Sep 15th 2018

Easy Saturday Afternoon Ride	1*

Leader: Steve Boreham	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Out west this week. Via Wantage and the Letcombes before descending to Childrey and on to Sparsholt and Kingston Lisle. A well-earned break at Kingston Lisle for refreshments! Then back via the Baulking road to Goosey, Denchworth and home. *Optional extension post tea stop if people are energetic - via Uffington. Do please bring own refreshments, if you wish in case the pub does not have what you would like.* Total distance of around 15 miles, or up to 20 with extension. Some hills but all manageable. Monthly 16-32km (10-20 miles) family and social afternoon ride, usually with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph). Occasional short or gentle climbs.
Riders: Anthi Demetriou David Bridge Diana Whidborne Marc Razzell Nick Portsmouth Paul Penfold Steve Boreham Riders = 7 Weather: Report: A lovely afternoon for a ride - weather glorious (Indian Summer??). Seven of us assembled. Very warm welcome to Marc on his first ride with us. As his bike was being worked on - hiring a bike to join the ride - very keen - dedication from the start! Also, welcome again to Anthi on her second ride with us. Lovely and relaxed as usual. We had a couple of steep hills early on to test the legs, but these were both pre tea stop while we were fresh(!), taking the required rests at the top of each one. Arrived at the "tea" stop on time - The Blowingstone Inn. Had spoken with the pub at the start of the ride with numbers and an ETA. They had freshly made Battenburg cake for us - all very nice, some had with alcoholic "tea"...... We all sat outside in the sunshine. The small extension to the ride - via Uffington - was taken up, with the exception of David who had to leave us to get back. So all felt virtuous... Back at Grove around 4.30pm. Thanks all for a lovely ride, and thanks to Nick for sweeping duties, and for adding the ride route with the link.
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/27794379
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Sun Sep 16th 2018

Regular Wantage Ride	3*

Leader:

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.

***RIDE CANCELLED***

Due to the popularity of the Childrey Spring Classic, which coincides with this ride, the Regular Wantage Ride is cancelled for this month.

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Tue Sep 18th 2018

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: David Yearley	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
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.
Riders: Bruce Winney David Brown David Yearley Jason Jones John Davies Steve Legate Riders = 6 Report:
Distance: 28.00 km (17.40 mi)
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Fri Sep 21st 2018

France trip	3*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 6:00 pm	Start Location: Whale Island, Portsmouth
Description: I will be leading a repeat of last year's very successful weekend trip to France this weekend, 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 on the appropriate day sections.: We will depart Portsmouth on Friday evening, at 2015 (8.15pm). 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. 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. A core group has already formed, but there is still a little bit of space for late-comers. Anyone interested in going is requested to contact me (Richard Pethybridge - 07875 456521 or pethybridgera@yahoo.co.uk) as soon as possible. Travel and accommodation is the responsibility of individuals.
Riders: David Bridge Eddie Little Jan McCabe Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Neil Bridge Richard Pethybridge Riders = 9 Weather: Report: The rendezvous worked well, secure parking was secured, seasickness tablets imbibed and the ferry embarked. As plan executions go, this one was well and truly nailed.
Distance: 1.00 km (0.62 mi)
Queueing for the ferry. Ready to sail into the sunset.
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Sat Sep 22nd 2018

FranceTrip	3*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 6:00 am	Start Location: St Malo, France
Description: First day in France. We arrive early (having lost an hour on the boat) but will quickly make time across flat ground after leaving St Malo. We will take coffee in Cherrueix, followed by lunch in Ducey (a new restaurant this year). After lunch the climbing starts, along a mix of roads and old railway lines. We should arrive in Vire around 1700, with plenty of time for a rest, a spruce up, and a beer before dinner.
Riders: David Bridge Eddie Little Jan McCabe Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Neil Bridge Richard Pethybridge Riders = 9 Weather: Report: Only 9 riders for this trip, after Nicole sadly had to pull out at the last minute due to illness. We emerged from the ferry nice and quickly to be met with a rain shower. This had been predicted, but was nonetheless a little disappointing. John Tranter kindly decided to fit waterproof covers to his panniers, which caused the rain to stop and hold off for a decent period. The route out of St Malo proved to be a little challenging due to a couple of '"DÃƒï¿œÃ¯Â¿Å“Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â©viations" caused by roadworks and a closed lock bridge. But we were soon on our way along the Baie de la Seine coast road, aided by a brisk westerly wind. With perfect timing (Luck or judgement? Your call...) we arrived at our regular cafÃƒï¿œÃ¯Â¿Å“Ãƒï¿œÃ‚Â© stop in Cherrueix just as Monsieur le Patron was opening up. A very efficient delivery of coffee, and an equally efficient provision of patisserie from the shop next door fortified us in preparation for the next stage past Mont St Michel. Following the "Voies Verte" through fields we crossed the river Cousenon to head north towards the Mont. En route Richard suffered the first (and thankfully only) puncture of the weekend. Leaving the Mont in our rear view mirror (well, Karen's anyway) we headed towards a potential lunch stop. Booking had proven impossible, with every restaurant apparently closed. In the end we dipped in (naval slang for "got lucky" )with a most accommodating boulangerie in Pontorson and with the rain holding off (we'd had showers all morning) we ate on picnic benches by the river. More Voies Verte followed, before we ground our way up the first big climb to Reffuveille. The wind was now much more southerly, and the rain becoming heavier. A long road section to Juvigny-le-Tertre was a rollercoaster, with strong side winds almost causing the peloton to break into echelon formation. Luckily we dropped back onto the Voie Verte for the run up towards Vire, although by now the rain was getting more torrential. The final run down into Vire was completed in heavy rain with roads awash - a shame because it's a glorious quiet downhill road with great sight lines. The most kamikaze of us still made almost 60kmh on it though... After a last tricky drag up into the town centre, accompanied by the slightly bizarre piped music that plays on Vire's streets, the somewhat bedraggled group arrived at the hotel, tired, wet, but thoroughly chuffed with ourselves. Not long after, and fortified by hot showers and Grimbergen, we enjoyed another excellent post-ride meal at our favourite Vire restaurant, Le Robbery.
Distance: 125.05 km (77.70 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/1862254906
Outside the cafÃ© in Cherrueix. On the Voies Verte. Typical quiet Normandy back lanes. The group with Mont St Michel in the background. Passing Mont St Michel. Lunch at Pontorson. Lining up the shot! Dinner at Le Robbery. Dinner at Le Robbery.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28182893"
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Sat Sep 22nd 2018

2* Saturday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Half day ride (45-55km / 30-40 miles), 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. Bit more hilly than usual. Quite flat through the Vale and then uphill at Ashbury and lovely downhill stretch to Lambourn. Down the Lambourn valley to Great Shefford and then uphill northwards towards Wantage with a coffee stop at Sadddleback CafÃƒÂ© after approx. 30 miles. Down Chain Hill and back to Grove.
Riders: Des Higgs John Groves Karl Blake Lorna Swanton Nick Dunton Paul Bentley Steve Swanton Riders = 7 Weather: Report: The forecast was not looking good, but it was dry as we assembled more in hope than expectation for our Saturday 2* outing. Nevertheless it was disappointing to feel the first few spots as we passed the Bay Tree and by Denchworth all of us had donned our cags... Des had kindly picked up the ride lead in place of Suzy, but it was clear fairly quickly that he was out of sorts and at Baulking he decided to head back with Lorna (who had only been planning to ride this far in any case). So I took over the ride leading and we continued following Suzy's route through Uffington and on to Knighton where the short climb up to the B-road exercised our lungs. On to Ashbury and the first main climb of the ride up the eponymous hill. We regrouped by the Ridgeway at the top. By now the rain had set in steadily and the suggestion to stop in the cafÃƒï¿œÃ‚Â© in Lambourn rather than continue to Saddleback, rejoined by "and back over Hackpen?" was unanimously agreed. So after a damp descent into Lambourn, we welcomed the warmth of the cafÃƒï¿œÃ‚Â© and hot drinks. The ride back was just plain wet! The rain stung our faces on the fast descent of Hackpen hill and after the Letcombes we split to go our various ways. One of those days when it felt good to have been out but even better to get home again! We missed your company on the rest of the ride, Des. Best wishes. Steve S.
Distance: 48.28 km (30.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28575136"
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Sun Sep 23rd 2018

France Trip	3*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 8:00 am	Start Location: France
Description: Day Two. After an early(ish) breakfast in the hotel we will start our journey back to the coast. The route is rolling (but not too steep...) through the Normandy countryside (La Suisse Normande), on quiet roads and tracks. We will crack on through and aim to have lunch in Caen, giving us plenty go time to enjoy it before the last few flat miles along the canal to Ouistreham and the ferry. Don't forget to bring decent lights as we will be disembarking from the ferry in the dark.
Riders: David Bridge Eddie Little Jan McCabe Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Neil Bridge Richard Pethybridge Riders = 9 Weather: Report: Day Two started with an early breakfast, accompanied by some anxious perusal of numerous different Smartphone weather Apps. The general consensus was that we were due to get wet, which proved to be a pretty accurate assessment. Once more we were aided in the early part of the day by a helpful tailwind, although the constantly changing weather (jacket on, jacket off) was slightly irritating. As we moved off the larger roads on the approach to Lassy a dog in the road (could it have been Lassie?) caused Karen T to take a nasty tumble as her front wheel slid under braking and she crashed. One cracked helmet and a very sore shoulder and left side later she clambered bravely back on her bike and we continued rather more slowly though the hills of La Suisse Normandy towards Thury-Harcourt. On the way we discovered the Voie Verte that follows an old railway line right to the coast had been extended beyond Thury-H and so we dropped onto it gratefully and trundled towards the sea. After a brief stop at Thury-Harcourt we decided that, due to the increasingly rubbish weather and a freshening headwind, we would crack on through to Ouistreham. That we duly did, arriving at the ferry drenched once more but hugely pleased to have completed the trip in fine style - and yes, John's manner covers were still in place, and very effective. Croques Monsieur, coffee, frites and other delicacies were consumed with glee before we embarked on the ferry for home. During the voyage it became clear that Karen was no longer in a position to ride her bike off the ferry. Brittany Ferries came to the rescue and moved her and the bike to the passenger terminal while the rest of us disembarked normally and picked up our cars from Whale Island before heading for home. Overall, despite the rather unfriendly weather, it was another excellent and very satisfying trip. Thanks to one and all for making the leader's life so easy (all I did was ride at the front) and for being part of making it so much fun. I plan to repeat the trip again next year, but with a slightly different route and theme. 2019 is the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, and so next year's ride will start and finish in Ouistreham. Day 1 will include a series of D-Day 'stances' along Sword, Juno, Gold and Omaha beaches before an overnight stay in Bayeux. Day 2 will continue via Caen and Pegasus Bridge among others. Watch the website for more details early in 2019.
Distance: 83.07 km (51.62 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/1862254884/overview
Leaving the hotel in Vire. "Cracking weather, Gromit" Drying off and refuelling in the ferry terminal. Waiting to embark while enduring a final rain shower.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28182974"
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Tue Sep 25th 2018

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: David Yearley	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
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.
Riders: David Yearley Jason Jones John Davies Robin Tucker Riders = 4 Report:
Distance: 42.00 km (26.10 mi)
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Sun Sep 30th 2018

Corallian Crusade Audax	3*

Leader: David Smith	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: Thomas Hughes Memorial Hall Uffington
Description: This new Audax is running very close to our area and will be a great opportunity to explore our patch in a new way! "A gentle exploration of the Corallian limestone escarpment which forms a low ridge between Oxford and Swindon. The distinctive yellow stone has been extensively quarried and used in many of the local buildings." Proceeds and refreshments courtesy of / contributing to Flexicare. As with all Audax rides prior registration is preferred follow this link to enter - http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/18-285/
Riders: David Smith Paul Jarvis Ursula Hallam Riders = 3 Weather: Report:
Distance: 105.00 km (65.24 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/17701700"
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Sun Sep 30th 2018

Uffington Church - Tea and cakes	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: To mark the last Sunday of the year when afternoons teas will be available at St Mary's church, a gentle ride out to Uffington. We'll head out via Charney Bassett, Gainfield and Fernham, returning via Baulking and Fernham. A round trip of about 20 miles. All welcome.
Riders: Brian Hipwell Diana Whidborne Lorna Swanton Nick Portsmouth Roger Postbeschild Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Riders = 7 Weather: Report: A cool overcast autumnal afternoon saw 7 riders gather for a leisurely outing to Uffington and the last chance this year to sample the tea and cakes on offer in the church (excellent as ever). With a group at the more experienced end of 1, we rode a little faster than usual 1 pace, fairly bowling along trying to keep up with a Di at one point! We had enjoyable detours to less visited corners of the Vale on our way out and back - the pretty village of Shellingford and the expanse of Baulking green. And after a headwind on our outward leg and some glowering clouds that threatened rain, we enjoyed the tailwind and some sunshine on the way home. A most enjoyable afternoon to mark the end of the Cycling Uk year. Thanks everyone for your company and a happy new cycling year!
Distance: 36.21 km (22.50 mi)
church adventures church adventures church adventures church adventures A detour to Shellingford church - 1* 30 Sep 18 The upper reaches of Baulking green - 1* 30 Sep 18
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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