Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Tue Aug 4th 2020

Tuesday Evening 2* A	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. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. I'm looking forward to re-starting club rides again! Details of the ride can be found in the map below. Please bring lights with you as the sun will be not far off setting as we return to Grove.
Riders: David Jackson Des Higgs Diana Whidborne John Tranter Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Really great to be back! Everyone said how strange it was to be back doing 'normal' things that we took for granted just a few months ago. Thanks to a great group for riding carefully with the new rules - it felt good to be out and reassuringly safe. An uneventful loop around the west Vale, via Goosey and Fernham to Hatford and Gainfield. We took a group decision to then take a short cut back to Charney just to keep us to a reasonable time. And - Des even found his lost GPS unit safe and sound back in Millbrook Square!
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
Gathering at the start. Return to group rides August 2020
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836254"
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Tue Aug 4th 2020

Tuesday Evening 2* B	2*

Leader: Jon Townsin	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. N.B. This is an updated route. This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Riders: Jon Townsin Karen Townsin LeeAnn Norris Matthew Luker Michael Tayler Sarah Lewis Riders = 6 Report: WOO HOO !!! IT'S GOOD TO BE BACK!!! Thanks to all riders for a very enjoyable first ride out of the season! We welcomed Sarah Lewis for her first ride with the club and Matt who has ridden just a few times before covid closed down the opening of the season . Anyway, it was a nice trip out to the Ginges and Steventon and back via the Haneys , where we saw Sara Ward. We passed Jan and Des heading homeward so our slightly slower pace meant we weren't first back - but we did beat the off roaders back which has got to count for something! Lovely social chats at both ends of the ride and that's what its al about!
Distance: 31.00 km (19.26 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33589764"
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Tue Aug 4th 2020

Tuesday Evening 3*A	3*

Leader: Jan McCabe	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. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 3* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Riders: Andy Pixton James Bosley Jan McCabe Riders = 3 Weather: Report: It was great to be back out with the club after months of solo riding. With a small group, and pre-booking it made the logistics very easy, and no problem keeping suitably distanced A flatish ride out via Childrey and uffington, and then a climb out of Fernham
Distance: 41.80 km (25.97 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945468
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945468"
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Tue Aug 4th 2020

Tuesday Evening 3* B	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours ride at a riding pace of 25-29km/h (16-18mph). May be hilly. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 3* ride STARTING FROM WANTAGE MARKET PLACE. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below, this was updated Sunday morning to take account of the Wantage start and to avoid the aggressive Red Kite. PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE LIGHTS AS THE NIGHTS ARE DRAWING IN ALREADY!
Riders: Chris Bailey Joy Arthur Karen Froud Katherine Boyce Sharon Bedford Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Great to be back doing club rides after such a long break. Some incredibly patient, cautious drivers on the Springline section down to Childrey Hollow Bit of a headwind out. Interesting having to not just cycle down all of Hackpen Hill to the Sevenbarrow turn, but had to drop the gears to make the pedalling easier Lovely ride, lovely group, fingers crossed this is the return of some sort of cycling normality
Distance: 37.58 km (23.35 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/3865050832
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33615251"
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Tue Aug 4th 2020

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: David Brown Frank Schroer Lily Shepherd Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Vincent Shepherd Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Two new riders and a rare off-road showing from Frank brought us to a total of 6 for this first official post-lock-down off-road ride. The weather was great: sunny and mild, with a bit of breeze from the southwest. We'd started from Grove so Crab Hill was our first section. I'd not ridden this since winter and it was in good shape, a bit rutty and grassy but rideable, we climbed the slope and entered Wantage. Past the Nelson and on the to cycletrack out of town - we made use of the wiggly side path. Then it was up the the Ridgeway along Goddards Brook, first a gentle climb , then a steeper section. A brief pause at the top to gather our selves and we were ready for the final section of climbing - first a bumby section by the gallops and then turning left to climb up through Bitham Woods. At the top we had a discussion about which way to come down - there are so many good options! We settled on the 'Ginge descent' and rode ease on The Ridgeway with the wind behind us. Down the hill - the track was dry if a bit bumpy and a definite highlight! Then it was the journey home. We had a brief inspection of the works on the new cycle bridge across the Ginge stream, which looks to be going well, and headed west on a rutted track. A bit more woods, and back on the cycle track, Crab Hill again and we were back in Grove. 14 miles in all and no major events!
Distance: 22.53 km (14.00 mi)
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Thu Aug 6th 2020

Daytime 2* Ride Series	2*

Leader: Diana Whidborne	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16km - 19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. ***************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. This ride will start at Grove go to Lains Barn across the park, to Lockinge, Ginge, Hendred, Steventon. We will have our coffee stop and meet up with any body riding independently at the Bakery at Steveton at 11.oclock
Riders: Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 3 Report: A lovely ride through the villages, to our coffee stop and meeting place at Steventon Bakery. Unfortunately the cafe wasn't open just the shop, so unable to get a coffee, we decided to make our way back to Grove via the road to Hanney Denchworth and home. We stopped to have a coffee and snack at Parslows in Grove before departing.
Distance: 32.00 km (19.88 mi)
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Thu Aug 6th 2020

Cycle and Meet Up

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Steventon Bakery
Description: This is an event where a destination (usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. Meet at Steventon Bakery at 11am. NB: the start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish.
Riders: Carin Tranter David Bridge Martyn Wigmore Patrick O'Leary Riders = 4 Report:
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Sat Aug 8th 2020

2* Saturday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: Jon Townsin	Start Time: 1:00 pm	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. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Ride Details: Up and over the Ridgeway via Hackpen Hill, a meander along the Lambourn Valley, with a possible stop at the excellent Priscilla's Kitchen in East Garston. Then back through Brightwalton and down Chain Hill. 54Km, 500m of climbing.
Riders: Eddie Little Jon Townsin Riders = 2 Report: Well, it was certainly warm enough! Eddie and I enjoyed a swift 2* ride through Oxfordshire and Berkshire, enjoying a nice cake stop at Priscillaâ€™s cafe at East Garston and an unscheduled stop chez Townsin to investigate a suspicious truck parked outside! Gals e alarm and off to Chain Hill for a glorious descent to Ridgeway cycles to pick up a pair of new tyres for me and bottle carrier for Eddie!
Distance: 55.00 km (34.18 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33628009"
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Sun Aug 9th 2020

3* Sunday Half day ride	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Half -day touring ride (60-70 km / 38-45 miles), at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Weâ€™ll head out across to Denchworth, then weâ€™ll pass through West Hanney, SouthMoor, over the A420 via the bridge. Then weâ€™ll have a nice gentle decent passing over the Thames at Newbridge. Weâ€™ll then turn onto some lovely quite lanes, passing through Northmoor, Stanton Harcourt, Yelford, Cote & Aston. Optional / social distance stop at Aston Pottery, the weather is looking fine, so we may be able to sit in the garden if itâ€™s not to busy, Or there is an takeaway option, you can also bring your own drink & snack if you prefer! Once we are all refreshed, weâ€™ll make our way through to Clanfield & back over the Thames at Radcot. Weâ€™ll then have the only two climbs of the day, Faringdon & a small part of Coles Hill. Then we will have a small descent to Great Coxwell, passing back over the A420, then onto Little Coxwell, Fernham, Baulking, Goosey, Denchworth & finally arriving back in Grove for around 13:30hrs. If you have any questions ref this ride, please donâ€™t hesitate to contact me, email edlittle157@gmail.com or message me on 07512645320. Ride distance = 71.00km / 44.3mi. Elevation gain, 1,414.2 ft.
Riders: Andy Pixton Clare Hazell Eddie Little James Bosley John Tranter Katherine Boyce Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Six of us set off from Grove on a very cool & cloudy morning. No real dramas to report on the first half of the ride. The roads were very quiet, which was nice. We arrived at Aston Pottery for 11:10am. The cafe was very quiet indeed, just a few other cycle clubs enjoying some beverages. Service was as normal excellent, we all enjoyed our drinks & some scrumptious cakes. The second half of the was nice & quiet. The ride leader suffered a rear blowout, this was soon fixed & we made good headway for Grove. We said goodbye to Katherine at Goosey, as she wanted to get some more miles in, getting ready for her 100 Mile ride on Thursday. We arrived back in Grove in good time. Thanks to everyone for your company, a lovely group to lead! Hope to see you all very soon.
Distance: 71.00 km (44.12 mi)
The new normal for a cafe stop?? Great Coxwell Tithe Barn selfie. Sorry, James... Cruising through Little Coxwell Cruising through Little Coxwell
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30390848"
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Tue Aug 11th 2020

Tuesday evening 2* A	1*

Leader: Jan McCabe	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. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Riders: Jan McCabe John Tranter Jon Townsin Riders = 3 Weather: Report: As it had been so hot during the day (approx 34C) we decided that we would cut our hilly ride slightly short and enjoyed the views. Climbed through the Letcombes up to Sparshot firs, then rather than the original planned route down towards the seven barrows road we took the descent to westcot, an intersting moment was had as we flew around a bend only to meet a tractor that was full width of the road, but were able to safely come to a stop and it sorted Jon's squeaky brakes!
Distance: 30.90 km (19.20 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33733284
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836142"
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Tue Aug 11th 2020

Tuesday Evening 2* B	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	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. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31803934"
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Tue Aug 11th 2020

Tuesday Evening 3* A	3*

Leader: Andy Pixton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 3* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Two spaces left for this ride... Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Riders: Andy Pixton James Bosley LeeAnn Norris Roger Postbeschild Riders = 4 Report: It was a very hot evening for a ride, though the four of us turned up, as booked. We were a compact group for most of the ride, spreading a little only on the odd hill. Having averaged a fairly brisk 3* pace, the ride leader slowed us all down, picking up a puncture on the farm track to Ginge. The group loyally chose to stay and wait for the repair, even though we were close to home. The last leg was pleasantly cooler, with sufficient twilight. Thanks to all for a very pleasant ride.
Distance: 43.88 km (27.27 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945531"
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Tue Aug 11th 2020

Tuesday Evening 3* B	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 3* ride STARTING FROM WANTAGE MARKET PLACE. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below NB Route changed Thursday night and is now going to Faringdon PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE LIGHTS AS THE NIGHTS ARE DRAWING IN ALREADY!
Riders: Chris Bailey Joy Arthur Katherine Boyce Lisa Footner Sharon Bedford Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Lovely ride to Faringdon via Uffington. Still very hot but being on the bike created enough of a breeze to prevent overheating! Hope everyones enjoying these relaxing evening rides as much as I am
Distance: 41.00 km (25.48 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/3899095776
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945468"
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Tue Aug 11th 2020

RIDE CANCELLED - Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: David Yearley	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: RIDE CANCELLED - Sorry but no regular off-road leaders are available this week. We'll be back on the 18th as usual. - 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 Aug 13th 2020

Daytime 2* Ride Series	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16km - 19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. ***************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. This ride will start at OMH and head out to Faringdon,
Riders: Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Karl Blake Patrick O'Leary Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 5 Report: Five riders set out in very persistent drizzle but this had stopped by the time we got to Goosey. A very good easy ride with good company
Distance: 40.00 km (24.85 mi)
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Thu Aug 13th 2020

Cycle and Meet Up

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Faringdon Coffee Shop in the square
Description: This is an event where a destination (usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. NB: the start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish.
Riders: David Bridge Riders = 1 Report:
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Sun Aug 16th 2020

3* Sunday Half Day Ride	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: Half -day touring ride (60-70 km/38-45 miles) possible tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. PLEASE BE AWARE THAT I HAVE MOVED THIS RIDE TO SUNDAY 16th AUGUST. RIDE DEPARTS 09:30am FROM WANTAGE MARKET PLACE We'll head out of Wantage & make our way to our first climb of the day Hackpen. From this point we'll use the fantastic Sheepdrove road, which will take us down through the Lambourn Valley. We'll ll then have a nice ride along some quiet lanes, ending up in the market town of Hungerford. This is where we'll have our Tea Stop. A nice choice of cafes to choose from. Eliane, The Tutti Pole & Honesty. There is also a nice Bakery which sells excellent pastries & coffees /teas for takeaway, which we could eat on the Common, free choice! Once we are all refreshed, we'll make our way over Hungerford Common, passing through Kintbury & over the Kennet & Avon Canal, Wickham, Boxford & Leckhampstead. We'll then enjoy the wonderful decent of ChainHill, arriving back in Wantage for 13:30 pm. Ride Distances, 41 mi / 66km. 826m of Climbing. Route Checked. 11:8:20
Riders: Andy Pixton Eddie Little Jan McCabe Lisa Footner Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Four of us set off from Wantage Market Place on a warm & cloudy morning. Swapping the ride to this morning was certainly the correct thing to do. As we reached the Letcombe’s Andy warned me of the Red Kite that likes to attack walkers & cyclists. We nervously approached the area where the Red Kite haunts fortunately the coast was clear. We made our way up to Hackpen where the view from the top was rather hazy. From that point we enjoyed the ups & downs of the beautiful countryside, through to the market town of Hungerford, where we all enjoyed an amazing tea stop at Eliane of Hungerford. Once refreshed, we all set off across Hungerford Common, which is an amazing place for cycling. We passed over the Kennett & Avon Canal, which was fairly busy with narrow boats. Just before Boxford, the ride leader suffered a rear puncture. The second in two weeks This was soon fixed & we made our way towards the decent of the day, the mighty Chain Hill. Where we all enjoyed the wonderful decent back down to Wantage. Thanks to everyone for your company. A really nice group to lead
Distance: 66.00 km (41.01 mi)
Taking a breather. 3* Sunday ride, August 2020
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/54140217?privacy_code=L44mUjB0c0dEOKTh"
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Sun Aug 16th 2020

2* Sunday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: Jon Townsin	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Half day ride (45-55km / 30-40 miles), with a possible 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. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained.
Riders: Gerry Jones Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Sarah Lewis Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Quite a still, warm and slightly muggy day turned out to be perfect for a 2* half day ride. We welcomed new rider Gerry to the group who coped well with the pace and Sarah, on her second club ride also managed well . It was good to be out cycling in the vale again and we had to make do with a snack at Ashbury as they don't open on Sunday but we made it back in good shape. Lovely to see so many riders out on the roads and so few cars by comparison ! The road down from Knighton was still very pleasant, in contrast to the similar descent from Kingston Lisle which is cutting up a bit. Thanks to Karen for sweeping and to Gerry and Sarah for their company.
Distance: 55.00 km (34.18 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30290849"
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Tue Aug 18th 2020

Tuesday Evening 2* A - CANCELLED	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: CANCELLED - TOO MUCH STANDING WATER AFTER THE STORM. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. This will be a nice mellow ride around the north of the Vale of White Horse featuring a lovely tour of the seldom seen fancy end of Longworth and a cunning cut through to Hinton Waldrist. No discernable hills! Details of the ride can be found in the map below. Please bring lights as the nights are drawing in.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30889160"
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Tue Aug 18th 2020

Tuesday Evening 2* B - CANCELLED	2*

Leader: Jon Townsin	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: CANCELLED - TOO MUCH STANDING WATER AFTER THE STORM. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. *************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below. ++++++++++NOTE NEW ROUTE+++++++++++++++++
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31677162"
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Tue Aug 18th 2020

Tuesday Evening 3* A - CANCELLED	3*

Leader: Andy Pixton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: CANCELLED - TOO MUCH STANDING WATER AFTER THE STORM. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 3* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945736"
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Tue Aug 18th 2020

Tuesday Evening 3* B - CANCELLED	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: CANCELLED - TOO MUCH STANDING WATER AFTER THE STORM. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. ************************************************************* This is a pre-bookable 3* ride STARTING FROM WANTAGE MARKET PLACE. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below. PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE LIGHTS AS THE NIGHTS ARE DRAWING IN ALREADY!
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31958156"
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Tue Aug 18th 2020

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and good lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders and have spare lights available to borrow if you let me know. Dark, cold and wet - we'll ride in any two. But please let me know if you are coming so I can tell you if I decide to cancel due to really bad weather.
Riders: Robin Tucker Sally Bensoussis Sarah Bowen Riders = 3 Weather: Report: All the other rides were cancelled due to weather, but the off-road goes on! Most of our regular riders were off today, but we had two new riders over from the road side today. The good news is that the last rain passed over at about 5pm and the sun even came out a few times on the ride. There were plenty of puddles around and the wet ground made a few sections a bit slippy, but we took it gently and had no major problems. Our route took us out of Wantage on the cycle path west and up to the Ridgeway at Knights Farm. We enjoyed the views as we headed east to Harwell and then took the grassy descent to the corner of the campus - great fun even when a bit damp. At this point I realised that we'd started in Grove not Wantage, so had covered more distance than planned, but being where we were and in good form, we still extended the route through the woods round the campus - it's great fun! Then it was back on the Sustrans route and we opted for the cycle track to Grove rather than get muddy again.
Distance: 28.97 km (18.00 mi)
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Thu Aug 20th 2020

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16km - 19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. ***************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. This ride starts at the earlier time of 9.30am from Old Mill Hall. The ride will go out via the Letcombes, Childrey, Sparsholt and Kingston Lisle. The ride will meet the independent riders at 10.30am at the cafe in Stanford. Return via Park Lane.
Riders: Carin Tranter Diana Whidborne Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 3 Report: A lovely ride out via the Letcombes and Childrey and on to Westcott where we enjoyed a brief chat with Lizzie Long who was tending her garden. We then went on to Kingston Lisle and were very lucky to find that road closures on the A417 meant that we sped along to Stanford. We had a few hitches and were slightly delayed and were delighted if a little suprised to be greeted by a throng of regular cyclists, at the cafe. Here we enjoyed a fair share of the usual banter and some excellent refreshments, before returning home via Park Lane and Denchworth.
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
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Thu Aug 20th 2020

Cycle and Meet Up

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 10:30 am	Start Location: Cafe at Stanford in the Vale
Description: This is an event where a destination (usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. NB: the start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish. We will meet at 10.30am at the cafe in Stanford in the Vale.
Riders: David Bridge John Groves Karl Blake Martyn Wigmore Paul Bentley Roger Postbeschild Riders = 6 Report:
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Sat Aug 22nd 2020

2* Saturday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: Karen Townsin	Start Time: 1:00 pm	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. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Thought we should head out North this afternoon. Largely flat ride along mainly quiet roads. Possible stop at Aston Pottery. I haven't been there since before lockdown, but other groups have, and it sounds like they're pretty well set up. One climb up Buckland Hill on the way home, but as always, we'll take it at our own pace and regroup at the top. 50km with 256m climbing
Riders: Gerry Jones Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Roger Postbeschild Sarah Lewis Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A lovely afternoon's ride. Great weather, and not too many problems caused by the wind. Roger's bridleway diversion from Standlake was one I'd always wanted to try. A back wheel (where else?) puncture was dealt with quickly and efficiently, with matching gloves, and the tea stop at Aston Pottery was civilised, despite the wasps. Thanks to Jon and Roger for sharing back marking duties and well done to Sarah for conquering Buckland Hill with ease. It was great to return to OMH at the same time as a couple of Birds, and as further evidence of the wealth of experience and knowledge of Wantage riders, as if any were needed, Roger left the carpark with Sarah to try and fix her seat post. . Hope it was sorted Sarah.
Distance: 50.00 km (31.07 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/54810466
Gerry : "You know when you've been tangoed"
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33804802"
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Sun Aug 23rd 2020

3* Sunday Half Day Ride	3*

Leader: Andy Pixton	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: Half -day touring ride (80-100km / 50-65 miles), possible tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. A ride out to the south-west along the springline road, stopping at the Three Trees cafe in Chiseldon, then returning via Aldbourne, Baydon and Lambourn. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained.
Riders: Amanda Seddon Andy Pixton Jan McCabe John Tranter Katherine Boyce Sharon Bedford Riders = 6 Weather: Report: It was nice to have a full house of riders on a grey and windy morning. We set off along the undulating springline road, into a headwind. After initially being spread out by it, we regathered, and worked well to stay together, all the way to our morning coffee and cake, at The Three Trees in Chiseldon. Having carbed up, we headed south to Ogbourne St George, then up our biggest climb of the day. The reward was a wind assisted freewheel, all the way to Aldbourne. What goes down must go up, however, but with a tailwind home, the remaining climbs were softened. Rain, which started at the top of Baydon hill, threatened to accompany us all the way home, but came to nothing. Thanks to everyone for making it an enjoyable ride.
Distance: 63.99 km (39.76 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33844532"
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Tue Aug 25th 2020

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Keeping our eyes on the weather. At the moment it looks like it will have finished raining, but be very windy. If we have to cancel, I'll post it here by 5pm Tuesday. NB: Last week at OMH - next week at Wantage Market Place Off-road ride around local tracks, usually about 15 miles. Knobbly tyres and 'get you home' lights required. We are keen to welcome new riders 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: Chris Gray James Bosley Robin Tucker Steve Legate Riders = 4 Weather: Report: After a morning of rain, the skies had cleared but it was ferociously windy. The road rides had shifted to Wednesday and I was wondering if anyone would turn out. As it happened, three did - all people who hadn't ridden with us since Covid, and all with new bikes in the last month! We did them justice and got them muddy! Up Chain Hill for warm-up and Lark Hill to test traction and Chris certainly found that his full-sus 29er was gripping better than his old 26er hardtail ever did, more comfortable over the tractor tyre prints too. Then we turned right and up the field by Chain Hill and left at the top to catch the wind. We tested out the down-hill abilities on Jolly Green Giant, and it was a flyer! Then back up Bitham and along to Ginge descent - first time James had done the twisty bits which surprised me. We inspected the bridge works over the stream, there are concrete plinths emerging and the stream is back, plus steel steps on the west side - I wonder if there will be a small footbridge or if this is for reaching the stream to paddle? Then it was up along the rutted rooty bit and Chris' new bike didn't save him from the slippery roots there! But we got back to the bike track to Wantage and then Grove ok. It was darkening a bit by the end, so you'll need moderately good lights from here on. NEXT WEEK - WANTAGE MARKET PLACE
Distance: 24.62 km (15.30 mi)
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Wed Aug 26th 2020

Wednesday Evening 2* A - CANCELLED	2*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: RIDE CANCELLED, in order to balance up the numbers on the other rides. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. ***************************************************** Now on WEDNESDAY - rescheduled from our usual Tuesday evening slot due to the high winds forecast on Tuesday evening. A classic 2* loop, out via the Hanneys to Steventon and back via East Hendred and Ginge. Some moderate climbs on the return. This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below. Please bring lights as the evenings are drawing in and we will be returning along tree-lined roads.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28228596"
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Wed Aug 26th 2020

Wednesday Evening 2* B	2*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. ***************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Riders: David Jackson Des Higgs Gerry Jones Karl Blake Sarah Lewis Steve Swanton Riders = 6 Report: We had a full complement of riders as Steve Swanton joined us from the other 2* ride. A very enjoyable relaxed ride with no problems. Both Sarah and Gerry are reasonably new to the club and both were very good riders and very good company. Thank you one and all for a great ride and thank you to Steve for being a very good sweep.
Distance: 30.00 km (18.64 mi)
Proposed Route: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/5963856"
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Wed Aug 26th 2020

Wednesday Evening 3* A	3*

Leader: John Tranter	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. ***************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 3* ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. A classic route suitable for this time of year as the nights continue to draw in. Some reasonable climbing rewarded by some swooping descents. it will be fun! Details of the ride can be found in the map below.
Riders: Eddie Little James Bosley John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Roger Postbeschild Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Compared to the howling gales of 24 hours before, this was a super pleasant evening. After a bit of group shuffling at the start, we ended up with a full complement of six riders and it turned out to be a well-matched group. The climbs of Holborn Hill and Hackpen Hill were dealt with smoothly and we then enjoyed the long descent towards Lambourn before heading for home (with a tailwind) via Seven Barrows and the big drop down Blowingstone Hill. Thanks to all for great company on a lovely evening.
Distance: 37.01 km (23.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/55056173
Tuesday 3* heading home.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31945783"
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Wed Aug 26th 2020

Wednesday Evening 3* B	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. ***************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 3* ride STARTING FROM WANTAGE MARKET PLACE IN FRONT OF MARMALADE. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Wednesday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. Details of the ride can be found in the map below, a bit of scrappy editing, but it will give you the idea of our route to White Horse Hill PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE LIGHTS AS THE NIGHTS ARE DRAWING IN ALREADY!
Riders: Andy Pixton Katherine Boyce Lisa Footner Sharon Bedford Riders = 4 Weather: Report: The niggly headwind on the way out was not in the same league as the winds on Tuesday night but reinforced the rightness of postponing last nights ride! The others very patiently did my pace on undulating springline before setting off at their own paces up White Horse Hill. Lisa made short shrift of her first cycle up the hill. Quick photo at the top and then off again, racing against the sunset. With the wind behind us we were back in Wantage with light to spare (just!) Great ride thanks all
Distance: 34.06 km (21.16 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/3970126029
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29892551"
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Thu Aug 27th 2020

Daytime 2* Thursday Ride	2*

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Uffington Village Hall
Description: Sociable rides of 24km - 40km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16km - 19km (10-12 miles) per hour. Please check website on the morning of the ride if the weather is poor as the ride may be cancelled or the start time changed. ***************************************************** This is a pre-bookable 2* ride. To book your place, text your name to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. This is an awayday ride from Uffington Village Hall at 10am going in the direction of Shrivenham via Ashbury. Coffee stop tbc
Riders: Carin Tranter Des Higgs John Tranter Karl Blake Patrick O'Leary Riders = 5 Weather: Report: This ride was a surprise birthday event for Des. Everybody knew we were meeting at Des's house for coffee, cake and bacon rolls except Des of course! We met in cloudy weather at Uffington Village Hall and went along past the Woolstone turnings and up to Knighton and onto the Springline road, through Ashbury, Bishopstone to Bourton and Shrivenham. At Shrivenham Des wanted to stop for coffee so we had to confess all that we were going to Longcot for our coffee stop. We had a lovely time, our 5 riders joined 5 other Thursday riders who had ridden out independently, plus members of Des's family. The entertainment was provided by Des's 7 year old grandson and the two guinea pigs! The only damper on the event was the rain which started earlier than expected and made for a cold ride home.
Distance: 28.97 km (18.00 mi)
Thursday ride heading for Knighton Hill Thursday ride heading for Knighton Hill Des gets the news that there is a surprise 70th birthday party coming up!
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Thu Aug 27th 2020

Cycle and Meet Up

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 11:30 am	Start Location: Coffee stop venue tbc
Description: This is an event where a destination (usually a cafe) and time is set and riders make their own way to meet with friends to enjoy a socially distanced coffee and chat. This is not a led ride. NB: the start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish. Please contact Carin for the coffee stop venue.
Riders: David Bridge John Groves Lorna Swanton Martyn Wigmore Paul Bentley Riders = 5 Report:
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Sat Aug 29th 2020

2* Saturday Half Day Ride	2*

Leader: Karen Townsin	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: +++++++NOTE CHANGE OF DAY TO SATURDAY+++++++ 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. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. A repeat of a ride led by Jon a few weeks ago. We'll head south into the Lambourn Valley with a tea stop at Priscilla's Kitchen in East Garston. Then it's a meander back up the gentler side of the escarpment before a fine descent down Chain Hill. 54km with 500m of climbing
Riders: David Jackson Eddie Little Gerry Jones John Tranter Karen Townsin Stephanie Haddrell Yvonne Bird Riders = 7 Weather: Report: Standing in the carpark in a cold 13Â°C, a bike ride suddenly seemed a very silly idea. Anyhow, since there were 6 other riders prepared to be silly (new CUK guidelines now allow up to 15 riders), we decided to give it a go. Sure enough, by the time we reached the top of Holborn Hill, everyone was feeling a lot warmer. We'd also passed Sharon, just finishing her morning run. As ever, we took the hill at our own pace and regrouped at the top before the lovely swoop down to Lambourn with the wind on our backs. Priscilla's did us proud; hope the bacon bap was worth the wait Ed . Things then got a bit tougher as we turned into a nagging headwind just out of Boxford. Thanks to Yvonne and John for doing turns on the front. A stop to admire the view to Hampshire was required, along a road that no-one in the group claimed to have ridden before, always pleasing for the ride leader . All that remained was the glorious descent of Chain Hill, except that it wasn't particularly glorious. Swirling, blustery winds added instability and hard work. A fun morning's activity, quite hard but a great feeling. Thanks all for your company and Ed for sweeping without even being asked. .
Distance: 55.00 km (34.18 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/55198848
the massive Eton Mess cake at Priscilla's Kitchen 2* cruising through East Garston 2* cruising through East Garston 2* team nearly home!
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33628009"
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Sun Aug 30th 2020

3* Sunday Full Day Ride	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Full day ride (100km / 62 miles), with a lunch stop, riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Likely to visit distant destinations. Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing likely. ****************************************************** This is a pre-bookable ride. To book your place, text your name and preferred ride to Jon Townsin on 07780 676051 no earlier than 9.00am on the Monday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. A reserve list will be maintained. PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOW AN ALL DAY SUNDAY RIDE STARTING FROM OMH Details of the ride can be found in the map below. We're going out via Witney for lunch at the Milk Shed before retracing our steps slightly to return home via Islip and Eynsham. Few hills but nothing much to speak of.
Riders: Andy Pixton Chris Bailey Katherine Boyce Lisa Footner Sharon Bedford Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Great to be back doing all day rides Quite a headwind for the first half of the ride, but a great return after lunch. First trip I've made to the Milk Shed with a group ride, very well organised and covid safe, with really excellent food. What more could you ask for, well bigger coffee portions!!! Don't go for the coffee but do go for the food. Route worked well, we all got to stretch ourselves at various points and we skipped OMH on the return as we were all Wantage bound! Thanks everybody for being such a great group to lead.
Distance: 112.20 km (69.72 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/3988053373
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31901452"
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Ride Filter

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

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

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