Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Ride

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Sun Jun 18th 2023

Summer Solstice Ride	3*

Leader: Sharon Bedford	Start Time: 4:15 am	Start Location: Beacon Car Park
Description: Please pre-book for this ride by contacting the ride leader. This is a rewarding touring ride starting with watching the sun rise from the Ridgeway. We will then following the traditional route to Avebury (48k) where we will stop briefly to admire the stones. Then onto Marlborough (61k) to hopefully coincide with the opening of Cafe Nero (7.30am) for breakfast. From there we will make our way back to Wantage. Riding pace of 18-22km/h (11-14mph). Not suitable for irregular riders.
Riders: Barry Stanton Jo Little Paul Smith Sharon Bedford Yvonne Bird Riders = 5 Report: A group of 5 experienced (and a little bit mad!) riders met in Wantage at 4.15am for the annual Summer Solstice Ride. Unfortunately there were a few clouds over the Thames Valley so despite climbing up to Sparsholt Firs we didn't get to see the sunrise. The sky was still spectacular though. We couldn't really complain about the weather as it was lovely and warm (there can't be many mornings in the UK when you can be out so early in shorts and a short sleeved top) and the threatened showers stayed away. Its a hilly ride and having a broken sleep pattern plays with your head / energy levels adding to the toughness - but the group certainly rose to the challenge. Cafe Nero breakfast stop in Marlborough was definitely needed - so grateful it opens at 7.30am and with such great service.
Distance: 108.00 km (67.11 mi)
Proposed Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43238068"
Comment on this ride

Written by : John Tranter

Posted on : June 18, 2023 at 10:36 PM

Absolutely epic effort! Well done to all concerned.

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