Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Tue Apr 6th 2021

Tuesday evening 2* Ride C	2*

Leader: Jon Townsin	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. This route is a clockwise version of the Early Season 2* to avoid bunching along the way.
Riders: Gareth Smith Jane John Jon Townsin Val Smith Yvonne Bird Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Woo Hoo !!! Firstly a courageous decision by all to give a try... We got as far as the turn off to Goosey before a virtual snowstorm hit (only a slight exaggeration!). Little persuasion was needed to confirm an early return to base. Our decision was justified when we saw the WMP 3* group heading for home too! Well done to everyone for turning up and giving it a go Next week has got to be better weather ... hasn't it ?
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35596632"
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Tue Apr 6th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride A	2*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly. It is very exciting to be back in action! We will start gently in order to ease people back into group riding. A classic Vale loop via Denchworth, West Hanney, Southmoor and Charney Bassett. 16 miles and nice and easy.
Riders: Graham Butler John Tranter LeeAnn Norris Richard Ashford Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Goodness me. Blizzard conditions at the start did not inspire confidence. Much discussion between leaders before we decided to head out anyway and hope for the best. Actually, compared to the other groups we didn't do too badly. Bitterly cold, but only a couple of flurries and we were rewarded with a glorious sunset to finish the ride with. Great to welcome Graham on his first ride with us who remarkably still turned out and rode well. Also great to welcome Richard back after a few years away. Thanks for your company!
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/65053403
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29569339"
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Tue Apr 6th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride B	2*

Leader: Karen Townsin	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: Des Higgs Gerry Jones Karen Townsin Karl Blake Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Well that was fun A fair bit of 'should we, shouldn't we?' in the car park, then we set off. A minor blizzard on the road to Southmoor, but we could still see the group ahead, so it wasn't a complete white out! Glad that we'd pressed on, the sunset and pink skies were as beautiful as the snow covered Ridgeway as we headed for home. Memorable
Distance: 26.00 km (16.16 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/65053454
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29569339"
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Tue Apr 6th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride A	3*

Leader: Roger Postbeschild	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Not hilly. CURRENTLY ONE SPACE LEFT. LIGHTS ESSENTIAL!
Riders: Andy Pixton David Jackson Katherine Boyce Roger Postbeschild Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Well, that was an experience! A bit of a blustery headwind until we got just north of Charney Bassett when a snowy squall blew in that made progress slow and not entirely safe. A meeting was convened and we agreed to cut the ride short and come back via Stanford and Park Lane. Having done this, of course, the sun came out and it became quite pleasant....... Despite the improved conditions, I found when I got back to my shed that I still had snow deposits on my helmet! Still, it WAS good to be out again in a small group and we managed an average 21kph.
Distance: 24.05 km (14.94 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/65052435
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836121"
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Tue Apr 6th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride B	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text your name to Eddie Little 07512645320, no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR LIGHTS!!
Riders: Eddie Little Jan McCabe Jo Little Joy Arthur Roger Turnbull Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Well that was the shortest ride I’ve ever led! Unfortunately we got caught in a heavy snow blizzard between Grove & Denchworth, so we made the decision to cut the ride short & head for home!
Distance: 15.45 km (9.60 mi)
3* Wantage road crew. First club ride for 2021 & it snows.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35601584"
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Tue Apr 6th 2021

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. 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 Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Riders = 3 Weather: Report: A ride in the snow! South via Letcombe to Fawley, then Bluebell woods and Betterton.
Distance: 28.97 km (18.00 mi)
A snowy evening off-road ride April 2021
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Thu Apr 8th 2021

Daytime Thursday 1*	1*

Leader: Diana Whidborne	Start Time: 10:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (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 ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader 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. Making a gentle start back on the Thursday rides to Ardington, stopping at The Grocers chef tea room for refreshments at 11. O clock. We will head out to Wantage Lockinge the return route will be Lains Barn route.
Riders: David Jackson Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Stephanie Haddrell Susan Holdroyd Susie Turnbull Riders = 6 Report: A lovely start back to Thursday rides, more chatter than miles on this ride, nice to catch up and see friendly faces. Perfect weather and company.
Distance: 24.14 km (15.00 mi)
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Thu Apr 8th 2021

Cycle and meet up

Leader: Diana Whidborne	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: The Grocers chef Ardington
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. The start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish. Meeting for refreshments at The Grocers chef Ardington
Riders: Ernie Trimble John Groves Karl Blake Roger Postbeschild Tim Waite Riders = 5 Report:
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Sat Apr 10th 2021

2* Saturday Half Day Ride to Farmoor Reservoir B	2*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text ride leader) no sooner than the Monday before the ride. Half day ride (55k / 35 miles), with a picnic / refresment stop at Farmmor reservoir (cafe there is open for takeaway, although I will probably bring my own refreshments) at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). (If the weather is looking horrible, I might change the route for eg a 25 mile option and skip the picnic stop)
Riders: Gerry Jones Katherine Boyce Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 4 Weather: Report: How exciting - an afternoon club ride after such a long time - and such a great take up! The weather led to a few very understandable drop outs (great they called it so early and let us know) but four of us were the first group out. By the time we reached the A415 to decide whether or not we were going to do the longer or shorter of Jan's routes, the rain had eased a bit, the nagging headwind has abated somewhat and the grey skys towards our destination had lessened. So we decided to do the longer ride, without a coffee stop. On the one hand you could say we did the wrong thing having finished the ride very cold and wet an hour later than if we'd done the shorter route..... however we were all glad that we had done the ride, although the drop in temperature and increase in the rain during the last 10km or so, we could have done without! Great group to be out with, not a single moan or groan (except from me going up the hill to Cumnor!) and plenty of cheerful chat. Great way to spend a miserable Saturday afternoon Thanks Jan for all your organising.
Distance: 60.00 km (37.28 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/5103502059
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Sat Apr 10th 2021

2* Saturday Half Day Ride (part way) to Farmoor Reservoir C	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text ride leader no sooner than the Monday before the ride. Half day ride (55k / 35 miles), with a picnic / refresment stop at Farmmor reservoir (cafe there is open for takeaway, although I will probably bring my own refreshments) at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). (If the weather is looking horrible, I might change the route for eg a 25 mile option and skip the picnic stop)
Riders: David Jackson Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Karl Blake LeeAnn Norris Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 6 Report: Well by comparison to the first Summer ride of the season it was positively Mediterranean! The hardiest of groups with 6 committed riders all making it to the start, however with persistent rain forecast for the afternoon we opted for the shorter route planned by Jan but in reverse. Heading out to Lyford and Garford we went on to Marcham Tubney and returned via the bridge meeting Jan's group just outside the White Hart- shame it wasn't open! We then went onto Southmoor, and back via Charney and Denchworth. 23.7 miles in total. So lovely to be out riding with good friends and great company, let's hope the weather improves next week.
Distance: 38.14 km (23.70 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35662898"
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Sat Apr 10th 2021

2* Saturday Half Day Ride - (Part way) To Farmoor Reservoir A	2*

Leader: Jan McCabe	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text Jan (07818 041362) no sooner than the Monday before the ride. Half day ride (55k / 35 miles), with a picnic / refresment stop at Farmmor reservoir (cafe there is open for takeaway, although I will probably bring my own refreshments) at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). (If the weather is looking horrible, I might change the route for eg a 25 mile option and skip the picnic stop)
Riders: Jan McCabe Jo Little Lisa Footner Steve Swanton Riders = 4 Weather: Report: It was great to see such a high level of interest in the first Saturday ride after lockdown eased! The ride was fully booked before 9am of the day bookings opened, but with Steph and Kath very kindly volunteering to lead extra groups, we soon had a total of 18 and one reserve! To help ensure we stayed as 3 groups of 6, decided to have three slightly different start times (12:50, 13:00, 13:10), and pre-assign riders to a given start time (not sure if i'd recommend this approach in future, it did achieve the objective, but meant it harder to be flexible and rearrange things if numbers changed). Many thanks to everyone who signed up; Those who choose not to ride (which was perfectly understandable in the weather) let me know in plenty of time, those who were riding all turned up promptly and all 3 groups left on time. Weather at start was constant rain, but not too heavy and not too cold. I had 2 options for my group, the original ride planned to Farmoor with a coffee stop, or a shorter option with no stop, both routes started out the same way, so decided to wait until the junction with the A415 before making our decision. The weather seemed to have stayed constant up to our decision point, constantly wet, cool, but not too bad..... however we decided to opt for the shorter option, as we thought the weather was only borderline ok, and not picnic weather! Just as we left Fyfield and before we got to the A420 underpass we met Steph's group who were doing the same route in the opposite direction, so paused briefly to say hello! Shortly after this the weather seemed to deteriorate, the rain got heavier and the temperature dropped, we were definately pleased we had opted for the short choice! Arrived back in Grove shortly after Steph's group, so were able to wave to them again, before heading home to warm up!
Distance: 35.00 km (21.75 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35659122
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35659122"
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Tue Apr 13th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* C	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Pretty flat, this is a nice straightforward 20 mile loop around the north Vale, taking in the lovely villages of Longworth and Hinton Waldrist. NB: we will do the loop anti-clockwise to minimise clashes with the other groups. LIGHTS ESSENTIAL.
Riders: Chris Bailey John Tranter Joy Arthur Mike Cooke Nicole Pethybridge Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Wonderful to be out in the evening sunshine and a great group to be riding with. Everything was quiet and peaceful and the ride went very much according to plan. Arrived back nicely coinciding with sunset. Thanks to all for making such a great group!
Distance: 33.80 km (21.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/65443505
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35680223"
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Tue Apr 13th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* C	2*

Leader: Karen Townsin	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: Gareth Smith Karen Townsin Richard Ashford Sarah Bowen Steve Swanton Val Smith Riders = 6 Report: This was the reward for last Tuesday and Saturday. A beautiful evening ride through the vale ending with the sun setting behind us. It was a lovely vibe back at OMH too, with riders chatting as the groups arrived back in the last the daylight. Thanks all for your company; it's great to be back.
Distance: 27.00 km (16.78 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/65443219
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29627938"
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Tue Apr 13th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride A	2*

Leader: Jon Townsin	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: Des Higgs Gerry Jones Jon Townsin Karl Blake Michael Tayler Tony Clark Riders = 6 Weather: Report: No snow?! Instead, a beautiful evening’s ride with good company. No mishaps and returned in good light - an all-round good ride Thanks to all for nice evening.
Distance: 27.00 km (16.78 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29627938"
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Tue Apr 13th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride B	2*

Leader: Jan McCabe	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: David Jackson Ian Howland Jan McCabe Jane John Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 5 Weather: Report: After the recent weather, we were blessed with a lovey sunny evening for tonight's ride. Headead out through the Letcombes and had a pause at the top of the hill (Thanks to Jane for the great photo) before descending through Childrey to the A417 and then a few miles around the vale before returning to Grove just as the light started to fade
Distance: 25.00 km (15.53 mi)
View from top of Holburn Hill
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29627938"
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Tue Apr 13th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride A	3*

Leader: Roger Postbeschild	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Pretty flat, I have modified the original route slightly to use less of the A417 and take in Hinton Waldrist and Longworth villages. LIGHTS ESSENTIAL. Currently fully subscribed. We may however put on additional rides.
Riders: Eddie Little Graham Butler LeeAnn Norris Nick Dunton Roger Postbeschild Yvonne Bird Riders = 6 Weather: Report: What a difference a week makes! Last week we shortened the ride due to a gusty blizzard. This week, light winds, much warmer and sunshine! A great group, some claiming to be a little ride rusty, nice flat route - we got round without incident, meeting John Tranter's group going found the other way just outside Longworth. Average speed 22.7kph.
Distance: 32.80 km (20.38 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35627626"
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35627626"
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Tue Apr 13th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride B	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. To ensure we are back in plenty of time before dark, the previous ride has been adapted for a Wantage start and finish. DO NO FORGET YOUR LIGHTS
Riders: Jo Little Karen Froud Katherine Boyce Lisa Footner Sharon Bedford Riders = 5 Weather: Report: At last a ride without snow, rain, cold or head wind. Yay. None of us are yet over the excitement of riding with more than 1 other and it was just delightful to be able to catch-up . It was also good to have a quick catch-up with Richard and wave to Robin as the off-roaders gathered for their ride! Slight route change towards the end to avoid another group (couldn't see whose) and as if by magic we were back in the square having said goodbye to Karen at the bottom of Harcourt Road. Fingers crossed its sunshine all the way to the end of the season now! Thanks all for a cracking ride.
Distance: 36.84 km (22.89 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/5121827160
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35651664"
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Tue Apr 13th 2021

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. 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 Apr 15th 2021

Daytime Thursday 1* ride B	1*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 10:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description:
Riders: Carin Tranter Diana Whidborne Michael Tayler Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 4 Weather: Report: The report is the same as Des's for the A ride.
Distance: 22.50 km (13.98 mi)
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Thu Apr 15th 2021

Daytime Thursday 1*	1*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 10:30 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (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 ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader 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. Ride out to Stanford in the Vale for a coffee stop.
Riders: David Bridge Des Higgs Ernie Trimble Karl Blake Riders = 4 Weather: Report: Thanks to Steph for leading the second group and apologies for starting quite fast but my legs were cold! The two groups soon settled to a very enjoyable 1* pace with all admiring the views and the blossom. When the two groups arrived at the coffee shop at Stanford there was enough seats and tables for all outside. Roger was there waiting for us. Brilliant service of cake and coffee (strongly recommend the lardy cake!) A very nice relaxed ride with a very good couple of groups and no problems. Thanks to all for coming.
Distance: 22.50 km (13.98 mi)
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Thu Apr 15th 2021

Cycle and meet up

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 11:15 am	Start Location: Coffee shop at Stanford
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. The start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish. Socially distanced refreshments outside at Stanford in the Vale cafe. No more than 6 per group.
Riders: Roger Postbeschild Riders = 1 Report:
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Sat Apr 17th 2021

1* Saturday Afternoon Ride	1*

Leader: Des Higgs	Start Time: 2:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Monday before the ride. Monthly 16-32km (10-20 miles) family and social afternoon rides, usually with a tea stop, at a riding pace of 13-16km/h (8-10mph). Occasional short or gentle climbs.
Riders: Des Higgs Ernie Trimble Karl Blake Nick Portsmouth Riders = 4 Weather: Report: A very steady ride to Southmoor and back. We were able to enjoy the weather and the scenery. We had to buy our coffee from the shop as the cafe was shut (obviously doesn’t adhere to the opening times published on their website - no problem). A very enjoyable afternoon out with excellent company and no mechanicals. Thank you all.
Distance: 26.55 km (16.50 mi)
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Sun Apr 18th 2021

3* Half Day Ride B. Winterbourne/ Snelsmore Common/ via Eling Way.	3*

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 9:30 am	Start Location: Wantage, Market Place.
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader on 07512645320 no sooner than the Monday before the ride. This is a half day ride, (60-70km/38-45 miles), possibly with a tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. We’ll head out through the Letcombes towards our first climb Hackpen. We can then enjoy the descent through the Lambourn Valley passing through Great Shefford, Welford Park, Boxford & Winterbourne, stopping at The Snugg Cafe Snelsmore Common for our tea stop. A full range of hot & cold drinks/food/cakes is available + takeaway. Also Toilet/wash room facilities. Once refreshed we’ll head out through the villages of Curridge & Hermitage. From this point we’ll turn onto the Ealing Way Cycle Path which will lead us through to the village of Hampstead Norreys, then heading back onto small country lanes passing through Worlds End, Beedon Common, Peasmore & Brightwalton. Finally we can enjoy the descent of Chain Hill arriving back in Wantage for around 01:30pm. Update. Saturday 17th April. This ride/group B has space left for one rider!! As this is the first 3* half day ride of the new season, I’ll aim to lead the ride at a slightly lower 3* pace! Distance/ 41.7mi/ 67.2km.
Riders: Hugo Pile Jane John John Tranter LeeAnn Norris Yvonne Bird Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A perfect spring day for a long ride and a perfect group to share it with. Thanks to Eddie for a really great route - we loved it! We had a lovely run to Snelsmore and then enjoyed the stop with a really good cafe. Suitably refreshed, we pressed on, got slightly lost in Hermitage, found the newly refurbished track to Hamstead Norris and set off towards Peasmore only for your leader to have a puncture. Always good to have puncture repair practice... The rest of the route was fun if a lot of up and down, and we got back to Wantage safe, happy and feeling that we had a serious workout. Thanks to the group for great company!
Distance: 69.20 km (43.00 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/65715822
fixing a puncture... Great cafe stop at Snelsmore Common Lovely run along the Eling Way from Hermitage to Hampstead Norris
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35659937"
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Sun Apr 18th 2021

3* Sunday Half Day Ride A. Winterbourne/ Snelsmore Common/ via Eling Way.	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 9:00 am	Start Location: The Beacon, Portway, Wantage.
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader on 07512645320 no sooner than the Monday before the ride. This is a half day ride, (60-70km/38-45 miles), possibly with a tea stop en route, at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Not suitable for irregular riders. Climbing almost inevitable. We’ll head out through the Letcombes towards our first climb Hackpen. We can then enjoy the descent through the Lambourn Valley passing through Great Shefford, Welford Park, Boxford & Winterbourne, stopping at The Snugg Cafe Snelsmore Common for our tea stop. A full range of hot & cold drinks/food/cakes is available + takeaway. Also Toilet/wash room facilities. Once refreshed we’ll head out through the villages of Curridge & Hermitage. From this point we’ll turn onto the Ealing Way Cycle Path which will lead us through to the village of Hampstead Norreys, then heading back onto small country lanes passing through Worlds End, Beedon Common, Peasmore & Brightwalton. Finally we can enjoy the descent of Chain Hill arriving back in Wantage for around 01:30pm. Update Saturday 17th April. Group A is full. Group B has space left for one rider!!! As this is the first 3* half day ride of the new season, I’ll aim to lead the ride at a slightly lower 3* pace! Distance/ 41.7mi/ 67.2km.
Riders: Andy Pixton Eddie Little Jo Little Lisa Footner Sharon Bedford Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Wow! What a beautiful day for our first half day ride of the new season. Five of us set off from Wantage towards the ups & downs of the beautiful Berkshire countryside, enjoying the very quiet country lanes. It was so nice to meet so many other cyclists enjoying the glorious weather. We stopped at Hampstead Norreys Community Shop/Cafe for our well earned coffee & cake. The cafe was reasonably busy with cyclists, but the service was fast & efficient, serving up excellent coffee & an amazing range of cakes & savoury’s. It was really nice to catch up with a couple of our old club members at the cafe for a chat, Peter Cowan & David Brown who were out on an mountain bike adventure. Once refreshed we headed out towards the second part of the ride which was slightly flatter then the first half of the ride. We all enjoyed some more fabulous countryside & the decent of Peasmore Hill & Chain Hill. The ride was completely trouble free with no mechanicals. You were all an amazing group to lead! The longest & hilliest ride for most for a very long time. Kudos one & all
Distance: 65.98 km (41.00 mi)
Quick selfie at the top of Hackpen. 3* half day ride Eling Way Hermitage.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35659937"
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Mon Apr 19th 2021

Annual General Meeting

Leader: John Tranter	Start Time: 7:30 pm	Start Location: On Line
Description: Meeting will be held over the airwaves using Zoom. Please pre-register for the meeting (as numbers are limited) via the link below. Registration requests will be accepted up to 24 hours before the meeting start time. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAof-6pqD0oE93lAQk6Q9QcOku0MYLtk2N4 Successful registrants will receive an email containing joining instructions.
Riders: Andy Pixton Carin Tranter David Bridge David Jackson David Smith Diana Whidborne Eddie Little Gareth Smith Jan McCabe Jo Little John Tranter Jon Townsin Karen Townsin Katherine Boyce LeeAnn Norris Lizzie Hardingham Lorna Swanton Nick Dunton Nick Portsmouth Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Roger Postbeschild Sharon Bedford Steve Boreham Steve Swanton Terry Ryland Val Smith Yvonne Bird Riders = 28 Report:
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Tue Apr 20th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride C	3*

Leader: Jerry Bird	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader 07748402015 no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly.
Riders: Jerry Bird LeeAnn Norris Lisa Footner Roger Postbeschild Riders = 4 Report: see ride A.
Distance: 38.30 km (23.80 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836142"
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1

Written by : Roger Postbeschild

Posted on : April 21, 2021 at 3:34 PM

Jerry, many thanks for leading and for your understanding when I trotted off the front to make my quiz. Quizzes now moved to Wednesdays!

Tue Apr 20th 2021

Tuesday Evening 1* Rides Restart	1*

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. After a gap of a year, a welcome return for our Tuesday evening 1* rides. These are leisurely rides designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, and those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of about 10-14 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. Please be aware that it can get quite chilly in the lanes in the before sunset, so do bring an extra layer and gloves to keep warm. While we aim to be back to Grove before dusk, lights may be required for your ride home afterwards.
Riders: Carin Tranter Diana Whidborne Liz Buckle Martyn Wigmore Riders = 4 Weather: Report: This was a fun easy ride to begin the season for 1*. We rode out to Goosey, poked around the church yard (looking for owl pellets and at the grave stones) and cycled back to Grove. Welcome back to Liz who hadn’t ridden with us for a while.
Distance: 16.09 km (10.00 mi)
First Tuesday 1* of the 2021 season - Goosey church First Tuesday 1* of the 2021 season - Goosey church
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35461412"
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Tue Apr 20th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride A	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: David Jackson Des Higgs Gerry Jones Karl Blake Stephanie Haddrell Terry Ryland Riders = 6 Report: A beautiful summers evening for a ride, so lucky. Des and Karl even had their legs out, may account for why they wanted to keep the pace up! Stay warm buddies. A very enjoyable ride with great company thanks all.
Proposed Route: : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/7457756"
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Tue Apr 20th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride B	2*

Leader: Gareth Smith	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: Gareth Smith Ian Howland Michael Tayler Susie Turnbull Tony Clark Val Smith Riders = 6 Report: A great evening for a ride - lovely conditions. We set off a few minutes after the "2* Ride A" group as we were doing the same route. Shortly before we reached Hanney a hot air balloon landed in the field beside us. This warranted a short extra stop - and the chance for a photo.
Distance: 27.20 km (16.90 mi)
Balloon landing near Hanney
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/7457756"
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Tue Apr 20th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride A	3*

Leader: Yvonne Bird	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader 07748402015 no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. We leave Grove and skirt round the outskirts of Wantage before heading out to the Letcombes. Then its up Holburn & Hackpen Hills followed by a glide along the Lambourn downs from which we descent to take the sharp turn at the bottom along Seven barrows. Hopefully with the evening sun and wind behind us we will climb through the seven barrows before decending Blowing Stone Hill and STOPPING at the junction with the B507. We then make our way into Kingston Lisle village before swooping down the back to join the Baulking road along which we travel until we meet the A417. A short stretch on the 417 before we turn left and head towards Goosey. The route is mapped to take us back to Denchworth by the slightly longer loop but if the light is fading we may well take the slightly shorter route via Cow Lane. Then it the normal stretch back to Grove. PLEASE BRING LIGHTS
Riders: Jan McCabe Jane John Jon Townsin Roger Turnbull Yvonne Bird Riders = 5 Report: For rides A & C After Jerry Bird offered to lead a third group, we split into a 5 (A) and a 4 (B). It was a prefect riding evening, dry and still with some warmth from the sun. We had rather long hold up at the newly installed 4 way traffic lights at the Mably way roundabout and a slight delay at the top of Holburn Hill while we tried to help a young cyclist with a broken spoke and buckled wheel. We were unable to help but were able to pass the issue onto group C and Roger Postbeschilds tool kit. Once we had tackled Hackpen Hill the rest of the ride was glorious particularly the descent down from Kingston Lisle with the sun setting on left.
Distance: 38.30 km (23.80 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31836142"
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Tue Apr 20th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride B	3*

Leader: Richard Pethybridge	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: Update AM 15 Apr - the ride is full with one reserve. I have tweaked the route to make it slightly shorter due to sunset, but lights will still be required. The link is the correct route. This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader on 07875 456521 or by email no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly.
Riders: Jo Little John Tranter Joy Arthur Mike Cooke Richard Ashford Richard Pethybridge Sharon Bedford Riders = 7 Weather: Report: The one where the leader couldn't count... The eagle-eyed amongst you will notice that this ride went ahead with seven riders, after I managed to get my numbers wrong. All concerned were entirely happy with this oversight, however, and as it was still within the rules we went ahead with gusto. Roadworks in Letcombe Regis meant we diverted past Childrey before climbing up Hackpen. Always hard work, but rewarded by the glorious swoop past the gallops en route to Lambourn. The reverse side of Blowingstone is always much easier than the scarp slope version, with the added benefit of allowing the more kamikaze riders to hit 45mph+ on the descent. The other advantage of this route was that once at the top all the climbing had been done, with only the run through the Vale left to complete. All in all a great ride with great company.
Distance: 35.41 km (22.00 mi)
John and Jo on the climb from Sevenbarrows Joy and Richard climbing up from Sevenbarrows
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35708434"
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Tue Apr 20th 2021

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. 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 Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Sarah Bowen Steve Legate Riders = 5 Weather: Report: A lovely evening, sunny and day. We decided to stretch the ride over the other side of the Ridgeway. We went up Lark Hill then right and up Chain Hill, then east with the breeze and across the track to Farnborough. Then a great blast down the trail by the water tower and down to Lands End. Up to the Ridgeway again and down at Ginge. Then back via the new Icknield Way, which is improved and fine for mountain bikes, but it wouldn't be good on a road bike! I had to peel off at Ardington, but the others continued back to Wantage.
Distance: 27.36 km (17.00 mi)
Shoes matching the sunset - April 2021 Dusk. Climbing back to the Ridgeway - April 2021
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1

Written by : Eddie Little

Posted on : April 22, 2021 at 10:36 PM

I’m pretty sure I came on this ride! 😳

Thu Apr 22nd 2021

Daytime Thursday 1*	1*

Leader: Susie Turnbull	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sociable ride of 22 miles - very flat at a pace of 16-19km (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 ride will go from Grove to Millets Farm for coffee. This is a pre-bookable ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader no earlier than 9:00am on the Friday before the ride. You will receive confirmation or be advised that the ride is fully booked. There may be an A ride and a B ride if there are sufficient numbers
Riders: Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Eddie Little Gerry Jones Karl Blake Stephanie Haddrell Susie Turnbull Terry Ryland Riders = 8 Report: A beautiful sunny day. We set off in 2 groups from Grove. Susie leading the A ride and Diane kindly leading the B ride. We were 8 in total. Easy flat ride through the Vale, arriving at Millets Farm Shop and cafe after an hour. Cafe well organised and plenty of outdoor searing. We were there for about an hour before returning to Grove. Lovely morning outing
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35711929"
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Thu Apr 22nd 2021

Cycle and meet up

Leader: Susie Turnbull	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Millets Farm
Description: This is not a led ride. Please come and meet the ride at the outdoor café at Millets Farm . The start time above is the time scheduled for meeting at the venue. Make your own way there and back as you wish.
Riders: Eve Thornton Lizzie Hardingham Roger Postbeschild Riders = 3 Report: We were joined at coffee at Millets by a few more members
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Sat Apr 24th 2021

Saturday half day Ride B	2*

Leader: Stephanie Haddrell	Start Time: 12:45 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Monday before the ride. 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. A ride out to Aston Pottery with a tea stop in the garden. For those who would rather not visit the cafe, there is a small green with a bench in the centre of the village. Please note that there are 2 short sections of bridleway/byway: one from Southmoor to cross the A420 via the bridge, the other to bypass some of the A415 around Standlake. More details to follow as rules become clearer.
Riders: David Jackson Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Jo Little Karl Blake Stephanie Haddrell Riders = 6 Report: A beautiful sunny day, perfect riding conditions and great company. A super route thanks Karen with some previously unexperienced tracks and quiet lanes which most of us thoroughly appreciated! Lovely to ride with Jo and Di and the stop at Aston was like old times. So grateful for the delicious carrot cake which fuelled us up the hill to Buckland. Des Karl and David were generally happy to ride at the back and provide support or was it banter at appropriate intervals.
Distance: 51.50 km (32.00 mi)
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Sat Apr 24th 2021

2* Saturday Half Day Ride C	2*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Monday before the ride. 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. A ride out to Aston Pottery with a tea stop in the garden. For those who would rather not visit the cafe, there is a small green with a bench in the centre of the village. Please note that there are 2 short sections of bridleway/byway: one from Southmoor to cross the A420 via the bridge, the other to bypass some of the A415 around Standlake. More details to follow as rules become clearer.
Riders: Eddie Little Gerry Jones Jan McCabe Lorna Swanton Sarah Lewis Steve Swanton Riders = 6 Weather: Report: It was a lovely bright and sunny Spring day but with a stiff easterly breeze that seemed to be more often than not in our faces making this a harder ride than the largely flat route suggested. With hedgerows coming into leaf and birdsong all around this did not seriously detract from the joy of being out. And on the occasions when we had both sun and wind on our backs, it was glorious. The off-road section at Standlake was new to most of the group and provides a nice alternative to the A415. As we regrouped at the end of the bridleway we spied a bike light at the other end ("that must be Roger". Sure enough Group A arrived at Aston Pottery just a few minutes after us, while Group B were already sitting out in the sunshine with their tea/coffees and cakes. The tea stop worked extremely well, the cakes were as good as ever, and we were able to shelter from the breeze too. Apart from a slipped chain and some tiring legs towards the end, the ride back went smoothly . It was nice to have a socially distanced catch up with the A-group who arrived back at OMH about a minute after us. A really nice group to lead this afternoon. Thanks everyone for your company and thanks to Karen for co-ordinating us all.
Distance: 50.53 km (31.40 mi)
April 21 - catching our breath after Buckland Hill
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Sat Apr 24th 2021

2* Saturday Half Day Ride A	2*

Leader: Karen Townsin	Start Time: 1:00 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Monday before the ride. 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. A ride out to Aston Pottery with a tea stop in the garden. For those who would rather not visit the cafe, there is a small green with a bench in the centre of the village. Please note that there are 2 short sections of bridleway/byway: one from Southmoor to cross the A420 via the bridge, the other to bypass some of the A415 around Standlake. More details to follow as rules become clearer.
Riders: Jane John John Tranter Karen Townsin LeeAnn Norris Roger Postbeschild Yvonne Bird Riders = 6 Weather: Report: What a great afternoon's riding. It was so good to be out again, congregating at OMH - 3 groups socially distanced of course- managing a cafe stop at Aston Pottery, and again seeing the other groups, and finally back at OMH after the ride. The small group gave everyone the chance to have a really good chinwag, and the cafe stop was surprisingly quiet, but still with plenty of cake left. We all agreed on how important the social side of our club is, and that felt particularly so today. So thanks you everyone, especially those who led or offered to lead. It was a real pleasure.
Distance: 51.00 km (31.69 mi)
2* group sweeping through Shifford 2* group sweeping through Shifford 2* group sweeping through Shifford
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/54810466"
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Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday Evening Off Road Ride	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: WMP
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. 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 Richard Pethybridge Robin Tucker Steve Legate Riders = 5 Weather: Report: After weeks of dry, tonight was when it turned. Richard spotted it and sent a warning message on our WhatsApp group 'Bring your rain jackets' We started off from WMP dry enough, and climbed up Goddards Brook, then descended Ice Valley and made another climb the other side. Going through the bluebell woods, in full flower, it started to drip. By the time we'd crossed another field it was certainly rain and the jackets went on. We continued with our plan though - it was refreshing to feel the rain after so long. At least, that's what I thought, and I was ride leader. We went down 'Twisty gnarly' - I confess I wasn't riding my best, climbed back to the Ridgeway and headed west, staying on the top as there was hardly any wind.
Distance: 32.19 km (20.00 mi)
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Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride C	3*

Leader: Jo Little	Start Time: 6:15 pm	Start Location: The Beacon, Portway, Wantage.
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place text the ride leader on 07900295322 no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). Maybe hilly. Please remember your lights.
Riders: Gerry Jones Jo Little Joy Arthur Mike Cooke Nick Dunton Riders = 5 Weather: Report: We all arrived early so were able to quickly set off, which was very lucky as that meant we avoided the worst of the rain later on. We all enjoyed being out for a ride - with lovely scenery, lambs and calves Thanks to Nick who took the headwind for me for a while and a special well done to Gerry for his first 3* ride. He coped with my slightly erratic pace setting along the spring line, so hopefully will return for more. Thanks for being a good group to lead.
Distance: 36.21 km (22.50 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35778687
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35778687"
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Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday evening 1* Ride B	1*

Leader: Lorna Swanton	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: Our leisurely and sociable 10-mile club rides are designed specifically with adult newcomers to cycling and youngsters in mind, or those who just want some relaxed and sociable exercise. We cover a distance of about 10 miles at a gentle pace of 8-10 mph, following quiet country lanes and the occasional easy off-road track. We stop regularly to catch our breath, to take in the views and anything that takes our interest along the way. Please be aware that it can get quite chilly in the lanes in the before sunset, so do bring an extra layer and gloves to keep warm. While we aim to be back to Grove before dusk, lights may be required for your ride home afterwards.
Riders: Carin Tranter Diana Whidborne Lorna Swanton Riders = 3 Weather: Report: The main 1* ride was fully booked, so Di and I arranged to meet informally and set off at 6.15. But for club statistics, it's now Ride B. Carin joined us for a leisurely ride and chat, following Martyn's route. Our detour to West Hanney church and long pause there meant that the main ride arrived back before us! Notable sights along the way were: a hare loping by the road to Lyford, Kathryn's group speeding past us shortly after that, and lots of beautiful blossom. A few spots of rain, but we were back at Old Mill Hall before it came down more heavily.
Distance: 17.70 km (11.00 mi)
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Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday Evening 1* Ride	1*

Leader: Martyn Wigmore	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. 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. Please be aware that it can get quite chilly in the lanes in the before sunset, so do bring an extra layer and gloves to keep warm. While we aim to be back to Grove before dusk, lights may be required for your ride home afterwards.
Riders: Clare Sparrow Des Higgs Karl Blake Martyn Wigmore Terry Ryland Riders = 5 Report: Nice steady ride with a few spits of rain, slight incident at the roundabout coming back into Grove but no harm done. Very wet from Grove back to Wantage.
Distance: 16.09 km (10.00 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27469877"
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1

Written by : Martyn Wigmore

Posted on : April 27, 2021 at 9:38 PM

Nice steady ride with a few spots of rain at the end.

Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride A	2*

Leader: LeeAnn Norris	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: David Jackson John Tranter LeeAnn Norris Stephanie Haddrell Steve Swanton Riders = 5 Report: An enjoyable ride with some hard core and supportive riders who were willing to brave the changing skies and some challenging hills early on in season as well as a new ride leader with a brief navigational mistake to begin the ride. The weather was warmer than expected at around 14 degrees celcius, but as we made our way around the route the winds picked up and by Sparsholt, it had started to rain. The rain then picked up making the next few descents a bit challenging. We all arrived a whole lot wetter than we started but still with smiles on our faces so what more could you ask for. Thanks group for your understanding. Not realising that this image upload was successful (despite the message at the top of my screen), we were such a happy group that I loaded the image 3 times. Thanks Steve for the amo. Lee Ann
Distance: 27.52 km (17.10 mi)
The smile before the storm The smile before the storm The smile before the storm
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34657569"
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Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday Evening 2* Ride B	2*

Leader: Jan McCabe	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 hour rides at a riding pace of 18-20km/h (11-13mph). Not likely to be very hilly.
Riders: Gareth Smith Ian Howland Jan McCabe Mila Yearley Sarah Bowen Val Smith Riders = 6 Weather: Report: The 6 of us left Old Mill Hall, and was lovely to have Mila joining a club ride again for the first time this year. We skirted around Grove to the aeroplance roundabout, onwards to the camel roundabout and up through the Letcombes, we'd paused and rested at the top of the climb up Holbourn hill as the next group arrived, so we continued onwards and upwards, each going at our own pace up Hackpen Hill and regrouping at the top, Sarah arriving first had time to take some photos as the rest of us arrived and just before the rain started! With the climbing now done, and with the other group approaching, we started our descent to the cross the springline road, and contine through Sparshot down to A417 and onward to Goosey, Denchwoth and back to home, by which time the rain had truely set in, but it had failed to dampen our spirits! As we entered Grove my group all peeled off to their respective homes, and the other group caught up, so as I entered Old Mill Hall car ark it looked as if i had returned with a different group
Distance: 28.00 km (17.40 mi)	Ride Details: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34657569
Regrouping at Top of Hacken before the rain began (Thanks Sarah for the photo)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/34657569"
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Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride A	3*

Leader: Katherine Boyce	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: OMH
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly.
Riders: Jane John Katherine Boyce Richard Ashford Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 5 Weather: Report: With everyone gathered, we set off slightly early, but not as early as the 1* groups, it was lovely to get to say hello to one of them . Uneventful ride mainly. Amended the route to remind us how easy the route under the A420 is when its not flooded! We then had a smooth traffic free crossing from Fyfield. A pause before Charney Bassett to allow for all lights to be switched on and raincoats donned ready for the threatening rain. As the rain started a decision made to do the most direct route, this meant we came across one of the 2* group, we settled behind them with a decent gap, with another group in front of them and the weather setting in, it was not the night for overtaking! Lovely ride, despite the cold damp ending. Hopefully next weeks ride will be less damp!
Distance: 39.62 km (24.62 mi)	Ride Details: https://www.strava.com/activities/5203974362
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31958156"
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Tue Apr 27th 2021

Tuesday Evening 3* Ride B	3*

Leader: Eddie Little	Start Time: 6:30 pm	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: This is a pre-bookable ride only. To book your place please text the ride leader on 07512645320 no sooner than the Wednesday before the ride. Weekly 1.5 - 2 hours at a riding pace of 20-24km/h (13-15mph). May be hilly. Please remember your lights! Update Monday 26th April. Space left for one rider.
Riders: Chris Bailey Eddie Little Jon Townsin Lisa Footner Roger Postbeschild Riders = 5 Weather: Report: Five of us headed out of Wantage enjoying the ups & downs of the spring line. As we were cycling along the bottom of Dragon Hill we spotted a large herd of fallow deer which was really nice to see, one of the many benefits of cycling! We paused for a brief rest & selfie at the Knighton junction, then we all enjoyed the decent of Knighton Hill. As we reached Uffington the heavens started to open up & you could just tell that we were going to get really wet for the rest of the ride!! As we were cycling through Goosey Des came cycling past in the opposite direction heading for the hills of Longcot. He certainly wasn’t hanging around! As we approached the junction for Denchworth & the Circourt Rd we waved goodbye to Roger who speedily headed for Grove via Denchworth, leaving the four of us to head back to Wantage via the A417. As usual a very nice group to lead! Thanks all for your company.
Distance: 35.89 km (22.30 mi)
Fallow Deer 3* evening ride bottom of Dragon Hill Time for a quick stop Knighton Hill.
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35778687"
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Thu Apr 29th 2021

Daytime Thursday 1*	1*

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: OMH
Description: Sociable rides from 24km-40 km (15-25 miles) at a pace of 16-19km (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 ride. To book a place, text your name to the ride leader 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. We will be going out to Southmoor via Hanney, Fyfield Wick, and Kingston Bagpuize. Return via Charney Bassett. Stopping at Munch Cafe in Southmoor, you can buy refreshments at the cafe, at the shop next door or bring your own.
Riders: Carin Tranter Des Higgs Diana Whidborne Nick Portsmouth Stephanie Haddrell Terry Ryland Riders = 6 Weather: Report: Although there were 8 riders booked onto this ride, with Des as the second leader (thanks Des), by 10.10am David and Ernie had not shown up, so we set off as a group of 6. The weather was supposed to be dry but we did have a a few drops of rain on our way up on the Hanney - Southmoor road. At the cafe 6 more riders turned up including Ernie and David, as they had not noticed the start time correctly. Eve, Gerry and Karl set off on their own way home, but the rest of the cafe riders returned with the led ride back through Charney Bassett as two groups, the second one led by Des. A good steady ride with good cake, sandwiches and coffee at Munch Cafe.
Distance: 28.97 km (18.00 mi)
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Thu Apr 29th 2021

Cycle and meet up

Leader: Carin Tranter	Start Time: 11:00 am	Start Location: Munch Cafe at Southmoor
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. 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 Munch Cafe at Southmoor at around 11am
Riders: David Bridge Ernie Trimble Eve Thornton Gerry Jones Karl Blake Patrick O'Leary Riders = 6 Report:
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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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