Well as El had got up at 6 and cycled to work, I felt guilty enough to turn up for my first Saturday training ride. I was wide awake anyway El doesn’t do anything quietly!
Six intrepid souls were there, Alan K, Andy P, Kev C, Jon Conboy, Jules and myself. In view of the frosty conditions it was decided that we would go toBangor on Dee.
I don’t know about you but when somebody tells me that a cycle ride is going somewhere I naturally assume that this is the destination and a suitable café will be supplied. You cannot imagine my horror on entering said destination to be informed that the café was at Two Mills! Cyclists are bloody weird and it is particularly difficult to go through and off whilst sobbing. Anyway a good pace was maintained and a casual observer may have thought we were a well oiled team in our matching kit and even though I say so myself good form as a chain gang.
All was going well until Kev C had an energy gel and then decided that we were being watched by Sky Cycling scouts and he would seize his chance to impress them. The pace went up considerably with him and Alan taking it in turns to lead, We entered the café wild eyed and covered in snot. All heads turned to look at us in horror and then like a Mexican wave the expressions on the faces turned to one of understanding and sympathy as they spied our leader. I even heard one of them turn to their companion and in a rather too loud voice say “ Ah – poor fools they’re with Kempy”
Good banter in the café whilst we waited for our food. Then back towards the forest and the inevitable race. Mention must be made of Andy Pool, not only does he ride to and from Sandbach to do the ride but he has a bike bag on his handlebars slightly bigger than Sherpa Tenzing’s rucksack and he still takes his turns on the front and drives the pace along.
Alan rode away with consummate ease through the forest as we all gathered behind Kev C for second place. Having let him lead to what I thought was to the 200m to go point, I showed my true character by trying to sprint away and steal the glory. I really must try and take note of where I am in theForestbefore I make rash moves, needless to say both Jules and Kev easily caught me in the half a mile left before the sign. Then back to Northwich, just over 80 miles in total – a great ride with great company.
Posted by Kev