Club run reports - 13th January

Category 5 ride led by John Farnham

A windy but otherwise fine winter’s day drew ten Wheelers to the start line at Allenburys. Our destination of Mill End Nursery, being north west of Ware, meant that the outward leg into a strong north westerly wind proved to be a bit of a slog in places, especially from Barwick Ford up to the old A10 and from Buntingford up to Sandon. The Cat 3 mob came surging past us just north of Buntingford, only for us to leapfrog them twice on the way to Sandon, as they coped with mechanical gremlins. Eventually one of their number defected and came with us to Mill End. The nursery café was full of Wheelers as the Cat 6 mob were still in situ, slurping their teas and coffees, but contrary to popular rumour had not eaten all the cake. Sarah and guest Dave also joined us, having ridden out directly from home. The mainly wind assisted return leg through Ardeley, Great Munden, Latchford and Barwick Ford proved to be a lot easier, although the final run into Ware past Fanhams Hall was a bit trying. 44 miles. No punctures, one chain derailment and no tumbles, although two of our newer members tried their best to make a close inspection of the tarmac near Great Munden.

Category 3 ride led by Tony Howard

A good turn out on a blustery day for the Cat 3 ride to Farrowby Farm, Hinxworth! Twelve riders assembled at Allenburys, but did they all finish? The riders headed for Cold Christmas. This is where Peter B decided to stop and pull a couple of Christmas crackers, or was it to fix a puncture! We then navigated across Barwick Ford, some via the footbridge and others through the water; I don’t think John got wet feet in the Velomobile! 

On to Puckeridge and through various road closures, this is where we lost our first rider. The Velomobile took a diversion to avoid said roadworks and we never saw the machine again until the cafe stop. After a couple more minor mechanicals and the inevitable stops, we were overtaken by the Cat 5 group several times! Shortly after this a certain Tony fellow (not me) decided perhaps the Cat 3 was too fast, and headed off to catch the Cat 5 group who were heading to Mill End Plants. 

Onto the Cafe at Farrowby Farm. A few turns before we arrived Graham K left us to catch a plane to Scotland to view the newest addition to the family - congratulations again, grandad! Alex P also continued on his own. The 8 riders were reunited with John H, making 9 for beverages and food which was served in good time and tasted great.

Food and drinks consumed, a quick dash home was in order, but the hills stopped it being quick! 54 miles, averaging around 14 mph, caused mainly by 3300 ft of elevation, (more than I planned). As always good company, and the weather was OK.

Category 6 ride led by Bob Brown

An uneventful but breezy ride out to the popular Mill End Tearooms for their usual fine selection of freshly baked cakes, and today sausage or bacon sandwiches! Would have been perfect, but for the large Cat 5 group turning up just as we were going to pay and leave - we had to wait 10 minutes or more while they ordered their food! Must speak to the proprietor about changing their payment arrangements!