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The awful weather at 08:00 gave way to glorious (by comparison) weather by 09:00.  So to those who chose not to come out - "yah, boo, sucks!"  Twenty-five turned out over the four rides with four fasties, six med\fasties, six meds and nine easies.  There was no need for rainwear as there was no rain.  Although the wind was still strong, it did not seem quite as violent as it has been and the only problems seemed to be puncture related.

The unpleasant weather didn't seem to deter many as there were over thirty out today.  A bright start gave way to a wet, dismal afternoon.  The journeys out were fairly quick but the return headwind and rain soon put paid to an early finish.  Peter also put paid to an early finish for the led meds by not keeping up, either on the way to Gt Bardfield or on the return.  The group of nine got smaller and smaller as the others got fed up with waiting.  However a highlight of sorts was seeing cars driving around RichardF's helmet after it parted company from his head as he was riding.  Not seen

As expected a large group arrived at Ware to make their choice from the three rides originating there.  What was unexpected was that so many chose the medium led ride to Clavering Lakes.  Must be Steve's charm, sex appeal (maybe not) or expertise in guiding a large group at a good medium pace.  Fifteen followed him and made good time with just the one puncture and seemingly no other problems.  A smaller group took the easy option and cleared off to Stortford and an even smaller slice followed Route C.  The weather was good - ie it wasn't overly cold provided that you were well wrapped up, a

Ten riders set out on the pre-lunch appetiser.  The route went out north of Ware and then returned to make it a round trip of about twenty miles.

Well over thirty riders congregated at Ware for the easy and two medium rides.  The masses managed to split into three roughly equal groups and each set off for its own grand tour.  The led meds took an elongated route to Hatfield Heath passing en route the fast meds who had stopped for a breather just outside Much Hadham.  On arrival at the cafe there was just enough time to say goodbye to the easies and thanking them for leaving the seats warm.  It was a fairly wet but not too cold day - a bit slippery in places.

The initial trial of four rides was very successful.  It managed to split those medium riders into two smaller, more manageable groups.  Now we've got to work on the easies, but it can be hoped that some of them now try to ride the led medium.  Over thirty were out today, the largest group being the puncture-beset easies.  However they did make their destination eventually.  The led meds went to Saffron Walden with Peter continually dropping off the pace.  After stopping to take some painkillers and being found (saved!) at the roadside by a fair maiden (thanks Sarah), he eventually got to t

Sunny morning.  Not too chilly.  Good time to ride.  Over 30 out.  What's not to like.

In amongst the recent downpours, a small oasis of sunshine.  And this was reflected in the turnout.  About forty riders set out, either on the easy or medium.  Twenty-one started the easy and rode out to Mayfield Farm.  Fortunately the pleasant weather enabled everyone to sit outside as the place was a tad packed due to a car show.  Seventeen set off on the medium but the venue was changed as Tapps Tea Room had intimated that they couldn't deal with more than eight at a time.  So the group made its way to the Silver Ball instead.  However two (who claimed a 09:30 attendance - but missed see

Despite eight riding the Emit Audax there was still a sizeable turnout for the clubruns with twenty-two taking to the roads.  A very strong wind made heading east fun, as long as you remembered the effort required for the return. Fourteen took on the easy option to Bps Stortford and eight made the journey to Blackmore.  A few punctures but no major issues involved.

At 9:00 most of the county was sinking under the weight of the torrential rain that was being dropped upon us all.  Many thought *** it, rolled over and went back to sleep.  Sadly the ride leaders can't do this and have to turn up anyway......

Atrocious conditions for the Hill Climb & morning club rides.  Much better for the afternooners.  The hill-climbers had to struggle to get a decent grip on the road as it was so wet and leafy.  Then two made their way through puddles\lakes\rivers to Whitwell where they met up with the four easies who had started in Hertford.  Despite the conditions there was only one puncture.  In the afternoon seven went on the "Come & Try".  The conditions by then were fairly benign although there was still time for a puncture\crash\faulty pedal.

Twenty-one took on the easy and went to Hatfield Heath.  Fortunately the cafe was empty for a change and all were able to get in and get served.  Meanwhile four others had an easy ride out to Wheathampstead after "getting the TT sorted and out of the way".  This group were accompanied by four of the Southgate who had turned up to take part in the Cole Green TT.

After the Road Race five riders went on a short afternoon jaunt from Whitwell to Wandon End.  

On a dreadful day with gales and torrents Dave Scales and Emma Hindmarch were first to the top.

Paul and Barry win the "Scrubbers" and "Restricted" titles.

Vince Divine came home first in the 50th edition of the Herts Wheelers "Last Chance Points Grabber" road race.
The full report. photos and and results sheet are now online .

About twelve each on the easy and medium rides.  The easies took a slightly longer route to Bps Stortford, whilst the mediums trip to Royston took in all the major climbs possible.

Many looked at the weather forecast and saw that the predictions for the early afternoon weather was dire.  Therefore it was no great surprise that on six took part in the Thaxted to Castle Hedingham trip.  Those that opted out missed a good ride.  This left more than usual choosing the easy pacer.  Unfortunately it was to Emily's, not the biggest fastest-serving cafe in the world.  And twenty turning up at the same time overloaded the system.  Nine immediately took the hint and left whilst the remainder spent the rest of the morning queuing.

Such a great turnout for the Road Race.  Thanks to all those who helped out at the HQ and at various points on the course  Many rode out and back making that their club run for the day.  There was one "official" ride after the TT with four people joining JohnF on a round tour to Wandon End GC.

Barry Page is the new Revenge Cup winner after beating Tony & Chris.  Barry's 1:01:24 eclipsed Tony's 1:01:34 and Chris's 1:15:08.