Around 20+ riders turned out today. The long run headed off to Prees, but ended up at Audlem…
The remaining 10 of us headed off to the Mills for a straight short run. We set a healthy pace, and two took a different (and probably more sensible route), leaving 8, then one of our number peeled off to leave 7. Expecting a dry day, we met with a nice band of rain as we headed along the greenaway. We passed Port Sunlight Wheelers sheltering in a tunnel and continued(!) Well prepared, without mudguards and winter gear, we kept the pace reasonably high just to stay warm! Despite onset hypothermia, and delaying the jump for the sprint to the cafe, our Chairman accelerated to take the honours. We met up with direct route-two at the Mills.
With some of us wet and shivering, the brews and food were most welcome. Dave’s fingers were so cold, he even opted to buy some new gloves for the ride home!
The rain had stopped by the time we left the cafe, and we headed back by the usual route – back through Mickle Trafford, where, as we turned off, Bruce decided to try his hand at off roading, by avoiding a pot hole and unceremoniously pedalling into the verge and dismounting his steed! Unhurt (apart from his pride) he remounted and ventured on.
date then took the lead and gave us a more ‘direct’ route with a short sting of Cob Hall Lane/Sugar Lane/School Lane. Onto Manley Road, I left the group as they turned right into New Pale Road to head for home.
A varied, fairly short day, with some valuable miles in the bank. 🙂
Not cold at all, no.