Club run reports - 4th September

Category 6 ride led by Tony Dos Santos

With the Bakewell tart beckoning, it was decided to start at 9 o’clock. 
This was the week before L2B,  and I expected a large turnout. I wasn’t disappointed, as 13 turned up at the start. I got the usual text from Daniel, confirming he couldn’t make the start time (more like he couldn’t get out of bed), and he would meet us en route. 
Carolyn rocks up with her new pink little number, very very nice. Good to see Martin Phillips as well. Lisa decided to come and spy on the 6’s in return for my spying on the 4’s the week before! 

I made this a longer route of 42 miles, with some lumps and bumps as the majority of us were doing the L2B next week. We set off towards Fanhams and Alex then joined us. Nice to have you along. At Much Hadham Daniel was waiting at the bus stop. We were now 15! Amazing. We rode through Ferneux Pelham - apparently it’s pronounced “Fernux”! 

We got split as someone (not going to mention any names) decided they (see I’m still not mentioning any names) needed to go wee wee. Said person went behind a bush and by then we had lost the “Tête de la Course”, which apparently was led by Lisa who advised, and I quote, “when I stepped in and led an elite group of riders into Mill End!!” 

We arrived at Mill End Plants after 28 miles and the “Elite” group was already eating the Bakewell. While waiting for our food order who should turn up but  the real “elite” group, yes, Chris Boulton, Laura and Kev O’Shea. I was hoping the Bakewell had run out, as last time they “stole”, yes, stole my Bakewell! After some lovely banter with them and great food, we decided it was time to move on. 

Only 14 miles to ride back to Ware, fully fed and watered. Apparently, according to David Smith, I should have been in the “mega-gastronomy finals by consuming both a large sausage baguette and a portion of Bakewell tart with no apparent effort”. I can assure you, it took some effort. I’m not going to mention what he said about my post food ciggie. 

Most of the banter was about London To Brighton (L2B) next Sunday and the  excitement level rose. Lisa said she could get Daniel’s bike to the hotel the day before. I then asked Daniel, “do I still have to take you to the hotel after dropping his car in Brighton”. Daniel’s response was so decisive: “Yes, no, yes, no, yes”! Lisa and I are still none the wiser. 

We arrived in Ware, full of anticipation for a 6.30 start in Clapham Common next week. Unfortunately Ian wasn’t here this week - obviously he will  be sleeping all week to be able to wake up in time for this early start next Sunday.

Not a single mechanical or puncture and the weather was just perfect for cycling. Thanks all for coming. 
Obviously, written on the throne. Love and kisses. Tony.