WVCC Cycleblog

I think I can still see Alan and Dave

2012-01-22T19:53:00.005Z

Alan S left on the short run announcing - we're off to Two Mills, the long run can go to Holt or anywhere else they want. We all looked at each other - I stupidly said we could go via Summertrees and the Candle Factory and then round the back way to Holt. Fine said Alan Kemp you lead, I had that sinking feeling of an Italian Captain falling into a life boat but decided to bluff it out. Ten of us set off toward Whitegate, Alan K, Dave Fearon (on a fixed!), Jon C, Kev C, Tim, Howie, Vince, John K and a friend of his who hasn't been on a club run for 25 years whose name I have completely forgotten but for the purpose of this tale will call Newie (sorry I'm getting old and forgetful)

Alan announced he had had a tough ride yesterday and was so tired he could hardly sit on his bike. Ha ha ha ha, suffice to say on the way home Howie came up beside me and said 'this has been great preparation for Llanberis, high winds, hills and a view of the back of Alan Kemp disappearing into the distance'. We went to Eaton, up Hollins Hill, down to Quarry bank, along to Willington Corner, up Chapel lane past Summertrees and back to Quarry bank. At this point my sanity and credibility were questioned as it dawned on some of the party that we had just been in a circle with a gratuitous hill thrown in. I got quite a lot of flack but I did my best Bernard Hinault impression and told them to go forth and multiply.

Then over to Burwardsley and Bickerton via Tattenhall for a couple more hills before a regroup. It must be said that Dave F is amazing, with his metronomic riding up the hills. How the hell does he do it on a fixed, if I could have caught him I'd have pushed him off.

We then regrouped and all agreed to pretend we were on a club run and keep the pace sensible and stay together. There was complete consent - yes you've guessed it as we set off Alan K and Jon C disappeared into the distance not to be seen again until Holt. A fine meal in a crowded restaurant and we all set off refreshed. A fairly uneventful return except Dave and Alan sat on the front the whole way back and talked. We were treated to everything from Alan's competing in the Peace race to Dave's early days of TT'ing as well as some interesting facts about early girl friends. It was better than a radio and apart from regular shouts from the rear of 'half a rev' they did a fantastic job in very adverse conditions.

All in all 65 miles of hard but enjoyable riding at this rate we'll be ready for Llanberis.

Despite what it says below - Posted by Kev

To Prees and back

2012-01-15T17:26:00.003Z

Sorry about the dark photos - young Titch is studying photography at Mid Cheshire so clearly we need to get him to take them in future! The reason the top one is so bad is because the sun was so bright and was directly behind us - so it doesn't give any idea as to just what a beautiful sunny day it was. We had a great ride today. Graham led us to Prees via Nantwich and Whitchurch, then back on a great route which took us via Malpas (where the photos were taken), the Peckforton Hills and then (to avoid the closed bridge at the Shady Oak) via Bunbury. It was icy on some patches but we took the descents carefully and there were no mishaps. We had a companiable group out today and our front riders set a sensible pace so we kept together most of the time. Our group included youngsters James (who did a big share of riding on the front for us) Titch (who is doing really well) and me (!), and then for the"grown ups" we had Graham, Jules, John Conboy, Alan K, Howie, Ady and Carol (thanks for goading me on up the hills Carol!) Paul joined us on the way out but dropped out with knee problems - Paul, we hope you're OK...

I had 69 miles on the clock at the end of the day, and felt that I'd worked hard.

18 to Allgreave

2012-01-08T19:16:00.004Z

A fantastic turn out this morning with what must have been nearly 50 riders keen to start their 2012 fitness campaign - and anxious to get the miles in before the Llanberis weekend. The short group set off first (let us know how you got on) and I went with the long group, led by Graham, out to the big climb up to the Hanging Gate pub and over to Allgreave. This climb is steep! I couldn't see the action from my lanterne rouge position but I gather Dylan and our climbers set a cracking pace over the hill, and then patiently waited at the top for those of us without the right gears/legs. It's good to see Howie back in action, and his battle with his 42/24 gearing was something to watch - as was some of the zig zagging and general cursing that was going on from other riders. The photo shows one of the last climbs on the sharp corner before the cafe - where Andy broke his chain - and had to manfully walk the last kilometre uphill to get his beans on toast.

Graham led us back via Wildboarclough and the climb over Macc. Forest - by this time the drizzle and mist rendered glasses useless, (and the photo I took of us all at the top of the Forest just came out as fog). The descent to the reservoir and through Langley was fairly hairy in the wet.

Despite the poor conditions this was an excellent run - thanks to Graham and everyone for setting such a steady pace and keeping us all together - we had 19 at the start and remarkably still had 18 at the cafe (John Keen turned off early) and we all stayed together on the return leg until I punctured at Siddington and Kev and I stopped to fix it.

Ticks go to Graham, Dylan, Alan K, Kev, Kris, Jules, John Conboy, Andy, Howie, Elaine and eldest son Paul, Kevin, James Risk, Derek, Carol, new rider (and great climber) Neil, and another new rider (only 16 and doing really well) Titch. Thanks for your company!

Dave Astles RIP: Memorial Ride December 27th 2011

2011-12-27T14:31:00.003Z

Here is Dave with Nick and Alan, when they had all won their categories in the TLI National Champs. He was so proud of that win - and this morning there can have been few more moving sights than that of his son Mark, wearing his Dad's national champion's shirt, leading out about 100 friends from WVCC and many other clubs, on a memorial ride. We rode in two groups, on a beautiful almost spring-like day, along the Cheshire lanes which Dave knew so well, to one of his frequent haunts, the Ice Cream Farm at Beeston.

Mark must be very proud of his dad. Quite apart from his prowess as a cyclist, Dave was the nicest man you could meet. Everyone today had a tale about Dave - of his humour, his charm, his stories, his interest in everyone, and the way in which he would encourage everyone, young, old, male, female, fast or less fast - whether he was offering tactical advice about racing or training, or helping new riders to work out how to hang on to the back of the bunch on a club run - or in my case, just a simple "come on Ellie" when he knew I was flagging.

On the return leg today we rode together at a brisk pace, a bit too fast for chatting - and somehow he seemed to be there with us, his eyes twinkling, willing us on, taking pleasure and pride in the fact that so many people had turned out on such a beautiful day, all for him. I feel very privileged to have ridden with Dave, and whenever I'm out on my bike in the future he will, I know, be there with me, encouraging me. Our thoughts I know go to his family, for their great loss, and we hope that in their sadness, they take some small comfort from today.

RIP.

Elaine cops it - and where was Julian by the way?!

2011-11-27T16:19:00.004Z

A lovely ride in mild, sunny (but very windy) Autumn weather to the very nice Lavender Cafe at Dunham and back. We had our share of stops, with 3 punctures (it's that hedge cutting time of year) and Elaine deciding that she needed to challenge Julian for the wobbly wheel prize at the club dinner, coming off rather spectacularly on the cattle grid on the road through Tatton. She grazed her arm and hip but luckily nothing seemed to be broken, and she valiantly continued with the whole ride, with not even a whimper (that's what they're made of North of the border!)

The best bit of the ride was coming back through Tatton helped by a tailwind, trying to chase Jed in his yellow submarine - the park was full of families out walking and they all stopped to watch - it was like being out with Lance Armstrong in terms of the attention he (and therefore we) received.

We had a good group out and Alan did his normal fantastic job of keeping everyone together which was quite challenging as we had some speedy sorts out. The following get their "tick" - Jed, Alan, Woody, Terry, Phil, Dave Astles, Derek on his trike, Elaine, Craig (congratulations Craig on your new Bonfire Night baby), Andrew, Steve, and new (and very strong) boys Rob (on a fixed) and Moz (on a cyclo cross bike complete with knobbly wheels). Sorry if I've forgotten anyone!!!

Also sorry about the rubbish photo, and for the fact that Woody, Rob and Dave had already peeled off by the time I took it...

And finally a message to Julian: we all hope you've recovered from your night out!

The hatch, match and dispatch ride

2011-10-30T17:15:00.006Z

What with Craig's imminent baby (still not there, but we were all a bit twitchy when his phone rang) - and tales of an apparent suicide off the Church Minshull canal bridge, that led to the road being closed - we had a ride featuring a birth (nearly) a death (apparently) but no marriage, so we ticked two boxes out of three. The whole of life (almost) on a WVCC club run.

I opted for the shorter ride today and we all enjoyed excellent company, gorgeous Autumn sunshine and quiet Cheshire lanes. We were a nicely sized bunch, with Woody and Craig doing most of the work on the front, and Alan, Ben, Chris, Steve, Andy and Martin all enjoying a good-paced ride out to Holt the direct way, then back via Tattenhall and Tarporley. Woody won the race to the cafe, and Craig to the Tarporley sign, both thanks to my lead outs I should say! Then at Little Budworth, a Jedmobile sighting, as he trundled his way out to Chester.

I haven't been out for a club run for ages because of mountain biking, cyclo cross, work and family, but today made me realise how much I've missed them, and what fun they are, especially on such a beautiful day.

"Pillow"

2011-08-28T19:21:00.003+01:00

"Why do people shout 'pillow' when they ride over a bump in the road?" asked one of our newer riders today. Good question - I racked my brain for some arcane cycling terminology that I hadn't yet learned, then finally realised what was going on. Pls. can people in future pls. articulate more clearly when they shout "below"!

An excellent ride today. We got soaked in the first half an hour but then the rain held off for the whole ride, which was a bonus. A nice route from Craig took us via Tarporley and Waverton, then through Chester on the Greenway, to Two Mills. Twelve of us set out but Kris was suffering from some sort of "highly trained athlete" lurgy and left us early on. It was good to see two newish riders Nigel and Tom, who both seem to have alarmingly strong legs! Chris won the sprint to the cafe. On the way back Nick set a cracking pace, and the race through the Forest was won again by Chris who cleary has the potential to take on Mark Cavendish.

After all the debate on the forum I should add that this was for me at least the perfect club run: beautiful Cheshire lanes, nice and sociable, and with enough fast stretches to keep the fast riders amused, but not so many as to leave us slowies behind!

Waterproof socks don't work

2011-06-12T17:13:00.002+01:00

Here are some very wet riders at the Prees cafe! There were 12 of us - Richard M, Ady, Kris, Tony, Jim, three Johns, Kev, me and Carol and Woody - I think it was their first outing on the longer ride. Garry and Jed joined us en route but when the heavens opened and they heard Kev say he was heading for Marple (he meant Malpas but that's Kev for you) they headed (very sensibly) for home. The rest of us just got very wet, the rain just didn't let up and it was the VERY WET variety of rain - you know the sort. Glasses were useless (especially as most people didn't have mudguards) and poor Ady ended up with a bad case of very sore eyes, thanks probably to the dilute slurry coming up off the muckier roads. Anyway we all stayed resolutely positive despite the adversity thanks to some very dodgy singing from various people and the odd motivational slogan along the "if you're not suffering you're not getting fitter" and "when the going gets tough, the tough get going" variety. Carol was particularly perky, somehow maintaining cheerful conversations up every hill and through every puddle!! We rode there and back at a swift pace - largely because we were all so cold we had to keep warm somehow - and the group stayed together nicely.
Four lessons learned: 1. put your waterproof on as soon as it starts raining (some of us waited too long, so got soaked) 2. waterproof socks don't work, they just fill up with (cold) water 3. if you've got a waterproof, bring it (this one is aimed specifically at Kris and John K!) and 4. if it's raining that heavily, you're best going for a mountain bike ride under the trees, or heading for the Trafford Centre!

Then there was one - a blog by Kev

2011-05-29T18:50:00.002+01:00

It must have happened before but I suspect not very often, that the run leader returns on his own. Well to be honest there were only five of us to start with: myself, Dylan, Julian, Chris Latter and John Chrystal. Dylan and Jules, both race fit, set what would be fair to say was a challenging pace, despite the tail wind. After about ten miles, Chris pulled alongside and said "the last time I was going this fast Fausto Coppi was up front" - he's older than he looks. About two miles later John said "where are we going today" - on explaining my detailed route plan including three major climbs finally arriving at the cafe above Bollington, he announced "I'm too fat for that, I'm on the wrong bloody run". Things were not going well, especially as I hadn't planned to lead the run and was not entirely sure which way to go.

I surprised myself by finding Alderley Edge and we set off in a sort of planned loop towards the hills. At this point Chris and John went striaght on at a turn and shouted back into the wind - "We're off to AJs" - then there were three.

With a bit of help from Jules we found Pott Shrigley and ascended the infamous Brickworks climb, then down into Kettleshulme and up the long climb to Oldgate Nick. Dylan did a very passable Contador impression flying up both hills with plenty of out of the saddle bursts. Luckily for Jules and myself his two and a half stone of muscle is not much use on 1 in 4 windy descents where he struggles to stay on the tarmac. One last tortuous ascent from Jenkins Chapel and we were at the café.

After the stop, a small climb, then a great long descent into Bollington, and Dylan said he wanted to go straight home and Jules volunteered to show him the way. I was keen to complete my ‘planned’ route via the Wizard home and wanted a few more miles so we parted company. I had my trusted no expense Garmin with me so what could possibly go wrong.

The Angel of the North statue is very impressive when you get up close and no matter what anyone says, Blackpool illuminations are a match for any of the wonders of the world. I arrived back alone and tired.

Statistics according to the Garmin 436 miles, 27,654 ft of ascent, average heart rate 24 bpm, and average speed 87.4 mph.

For sale one Garmin. Kev

Blaze Farm

2011-05-15T15:10:00.004+01:00

Sorry no photo today. Lots of people at the club today but only eight (Chris and Matt, Jules, Dylan, Graham, new rider Tony, Kev and me) opted for the longer ride. Kev led us (with a few helpful contributions from Graham!) and we took a direct route to the cross roads on the A54 then up over the Dunbars. It's a beautiful ride - with views into the Peaks, and spring very much in evidence. Everyone made their own way up the climb with Dylan leading the way. A brave group then did an extra loop down to Wincle and up out again - whilst I joined a smaller group who went directly to the cafe. I gather Tony managed to fall off his bike going uphill, because he hit some cow (or was it horse) poo and lost traction - he then had to go back down the hill again so he could clip in and get started, and ride up again - a good one for the club dinner, we thought!

Lunch was good, and we emerged to drizzle, so caped up and returned via the evil double arrow climb up and over the hill behind the Farm, descending past the Hanging Gate pub back into Sutton Lane Ends. At this point we ended up in a road works diversion and lost Graham and Tony, hopefully they got back OK. We rode back swiftly with Jules and Kev doing sterling work on the front and we were back home ready for an afternoon nap (otherwise known as watching the Giro)
How did the shorter group get on?
Posted by Eleanor.

TLI 3

2011-05-10T23:22:00.002+01:00

Great racing in the over 50s and 60s group - Nick got into a break with 6 or 7 riders (all from the over 50s group) and worked really hard, coming in a well deserved 3rd - Alan waited and watched his own age group, who formed a second break - Alan won the sprint, coming in 1st. Graham stayed with the pace with ease. As for me - I got caught out by the start when everyone set off at a brutal pace for the first mile and embarrassingly, I allowed the elastic to snap and got dropped. I joined in again on the next lap when the pace had settled down a bit and stayed on OK from then on. In the younger groups Julian stayed with the pace till the final sprint, despite having been poorly all weekend, and Dylan did really well this week, staying in the bunch and managing a big effort off the front only to be reeled in.

Two Mills

2011-05-08T17:11:00.004+01:00

A great club run - instead of splitting into a longer and shorter group, we all stayed together to ride to Two Mills, and we had well over 20 riders at the cafe. The ride there was VERY WET! We were on the new Chester Greenway when the clouds opened and Garry very sensibly suggested a cape stop - unfortunately some of us were too busy trying to keep up to stop. At some point Kev put the hammer down, and at this point we did end up splitting into two groups. The forecast had not suggested rain, so no-one had mudguards, and the uncaped amongst us arrived at the cafe looking like very dirty drowned rats.

The ride back was more civilised in terms of both weather and pace. The obligatory Forest race was interesting, with Carol going to the front, producing an intriguing reaction - our chaps won't let someone who rides a bike with pink bits go past lightly! So they set up the chase and I gather young Matt won (as he had done the sprint to the cafe) with Kev in second. We then rode back altogether (with a puncture stop in Norley which provided a nice opportunity for a bit of sunbathing).

Great to see so many riders out, including new and old, fast and less fast, all enjoying a good pace and staying together without difficulty.

Posted by Eleanor.

TLI races at Lower Withington - to ride or to race?

2011-05-03T22:05:00.005+01:00

Lots of WVCC members of both the "riding" (trying not to get dropped) and the "racing" (trying to win) species out today. I was riding (certainly not racing) in the over 50s and 60s group and it was HORRIBLE, it seemed much faster than last year - whether it was, or whether I'm just less fit than last year (having lost my one remaining fast twitch muscle somewhere in Australia) I don't know. Anyway I started to feel sick on about the fifth acceleration and then got dropped on the sixth and it was only Dave Astles who then kept me going - he joined me and said we might as well get some training done: so we took turns on the front for the remaining laps (Dave ensuring he was always on the front when we rode past the marshals!!) until we managed to join the rear of the overtaking over-40s race for the last lap and we hung onto them for a compensation sprint to the finish at the end. Anyway thanks to Dave's advice I finished feeling tired and much better than if I'd just dropped out, which is what I'd been planning to do, so thanks Dave.

As for the other WVCC riders and racers, they did just great. Graham, Nick, Alan and Ewart rode in my race: Alan came in second and Nick and Ewart were both close behind him; and John Conboy and Gareth looked very comfortable in their race. Jules rode his first TLI race and looked completely in control so we're expecting to see him going for it in future rides; and hats off to young Dylan for riding his first race - I gather he was mixing it at the front for the first couple of laps and then paid the price - what did we tell you Dylan - try a bit of wheel-sucking next week and you'll be there in contention for the final sprint!

Cheshire Cat

2011-03-27T19:22:00.003+01:00

Thanks to Julian for this picture. Here we all are, in the B and Q car park at Crewe, about to start on the Cheshire Cat - well done Woody for getting us organised. From left: Dan, John Keen, Adrian, Elaine, Carol, Woody, Andrew and James Risk, me and Kev. Also riding but not in the picture was Dave from the Wednesday Wrinklies, and I think Chris Latter, Andy and Roger were somewhere out there too. Hopefully everyone will put a post on the forum (under Calendar) to let us know how they got on. The organisation was dreadful - lots of queuing at the start and finish - but once out on the ride I had a great time, latching onto various groups and I got towed round the whole route by faster riders. The first third was hilly (and pretty, over Mow Cop and the Bridestone, then through Danebridge and Wincle) and then from there on it was flat and fast, across the Cheshire Plain to Tilston then back towards Crewe. I'm not sure of my time - we'll see what the results said - but I was out for almost exactly 6 hours, having stopped at all 3 feed stations - I felt good, I think the Llanberis weekend has done its job! Posted by Eleanor.

Two Mills

2011-03-20T16:09:00.003Z

A swift and uneventful ride to Two Mills today with a good size group. The outward trip started in the rain but this eased after an hour or so. We rode through Tarporley, Tattenhall, Churton then up through Chester, onto the old train track to Saughall - the return trip was direct through the Forest. With us were new riders Roger (who did a fantastic job on the front for long sections) and Kev, along with triathlete Andy, Graham, John Conboy, John Keen, Vince, Chris and Matt, Chris Latter (who kept saying he was going to cut the ride short and return to Bunbury but somehow never did), Kevan and me. Dylan was with us till Beeston then peeled off.
We met Keith and Dave Astles at the cafe and they joined us for the return leg, much of which was fast and singled out. A big bunch stayed together through the Forest then young Matt raced off the front for an excellent sprint win to the sign at Hatchmere.
I finished with 66 miles and an average speed of 17.4 mph on my clock.
Posted by Eleanor.

Llanberis 2011

2011-02-27T17:47:00.006Z

Another excellent weekend. Well done and thank you to Graham and Ann for organising and providing transport and en route support - to Steve for driving and for his enthusiastic encouragement - and to Dave Hinde for providing a big black van and much-appreciated mechanical assistance.

Kev and I had a great ride out and back with no major incidents, and for most of the way we felt strong.

Best bits:

The endless descent from the top of the Sportsman into Betws y Coed, on day one
Catching a group then going over the top of the forest on day two, with a spectacular and fast descent into Ruthin
Watching the club's five teenagers doing so well: well done James, Dylan, Matt, Jack and Connor (and they look good at pool, too) - and well done to their Dads for trying to keep up with them!
Admiration for Dave Fearon who rode the whole thing on a fixed 78" gear (speaking as someone who spent most of the weekend in my 32" granny ring) - he might be crazy, but he's also clearly very fit
Noting that John Conboy has stepped up a league since his last Llanberis trip - first WVCC rider into the hotel we gather, and clearly mixing it with the best of them - well done John!
For me, seeing another female rider complete the ride in both directions - well done Anna, great riding girl - and come and join us on a few club runs, you'll have a great time!
A neat innovation at the craft centre at Ruthin on day two - we got to use their education room, with soup, sandwiches, tea and cake laid out ready for us: saving the usual delays
That warm feeling now after a bath, a sleep and a few cups of tea - and a nice glow of tiredness and achievement.

Summertrees and lots of climbing...

2011-02-13T14:50:00.006Z

Above - the best bit - lunch at the cafe! WVCC takes over Summertrees cafe...

Well ever since I started riding with WVCC I've been persuaded that if I want to be a good bike rider I've got to learn to love hills - so with some trepidation I agreed to go on the longer ride to Summertrees - which we were warned would involve some hills. But I also remember being advised that once you've gained height, don't lose it. Well we did plenty of that, up and down then back up again, all round Kingsley and Frodsham, then over to Delamere Forest, then up the Keld and round the back of Kelsall to reach Summertrees via Chapel Lane. And to be honest, despite the fact that my legs were dead (mountain biking yesterday) and I was at the back of the group for most of the ride, I did really enjoy it - even though the weather wasn't great this is a beautiful part of Cheshire and none of the hills are that bad really (well at least not in retrospect). We had a bit of a contretemps where Dark Ark Lane meets the road through Delamere Forest and somehow both Julian and Keith came off their bikes at some speed, but they were both unhurt thankfully.

Seventeen of us made it to Summertrees: Chris, Matt, Ben (for the first time on the longer ride, and he looked very strong), Jed, Graham, Ewart, Keith, Julian, Max (back from Oz), Dylan, Richard Munro, Alan, Peter, Kev and me - Craig and Kevin C. got there but didn't stop. Great riding from teenagers Dylan and Matt, but we're getting used to that!

We then split, with Alan taking a group out via Tattenhall and the rest of us straight home via Cotebrook - it was raining heavily by this time and we were glad to get home for a welcome bath, tea and cake, and in Kev's case, the rugby!

Thanks Graham for leading the ride.

Posted by Eleanor.

Well we didn't quite make it to Bangor on Dee - a report from Jed

2011-02-06T16:40:00.003Z

Another good turn out today and a choice of Audlem for the shorter ride or Bangor on Dee for the longer. I (Jed) took sixteen riders on the longer run following a route I’d ‘muddled out’ using Google maps and the little orange man who can actually help you view the roads (as they were last summer probably!)

A lively pace was established by Dylan and Graham as we made our way through Whitegate, Utkinton, Waverton and into Chester. That’s when the fun started as we fought our way along the banks of the Dee out towards the foot bridge near Saltney. The wind was immensely strong and coming from our left which resulted in some rather crazy angles of lean and some very dicey moments. I was riding with Dylan near the back of the group, one moment he was on my right, the next, gone! I was convinced he’d been blown away across the fields. In fact he’d stopped to wait for Connor. Dave, Connor’s dad (on his exceedingly pretty and fully restored Mercian fixed) had already decided that he and Connor would make their way to Eureka and expressed his surprise when I outlined my planned route to Bangor. I found this a little worrying.
One thing I’d failed to do whilst planning this route was to estimate the distance and this would prove to be a stumbling block later.

As we reached the footbridge across the Dee, Dylan and Graham joined up with the Fearons as the rest of us clawed our way across the bridge and headed towards Saltney, Lache and Pulford.

I think Craig left us around Saltney and he was replaced by a stranger we picked up a little further on.

As we neared Pulford, mutterings were heard amongst the group as a few were wondering how much further was it to Bangor on Dee. I had no idea but 14 miles sounded like a good number so on we went until the signs for Holt were seen. That did it and that’s where we ended up, at Holt Garden Centre. 36 miles from Hartford.

The trip home didn’t turn into the usual frantic dash. It was quick but civilized and helped by a welcomed tail wind. We went via Saighton, Waverton, Oscroft and Kelsall. I bid my farewells at Kelsall whilst the group set off towards Delamere and home.

An excellent effort by all riders today including Eleanor who’d been out on her mountain bike yesterday and Kevan who was suffering some serious back pain following a recent prang. I was particularly impressed by the teenagers who are really coming on great guns and the relative ‘new boy’ Jules who is also riding very well.

It was nice to have Andy Howard and John Keen back with us again after a fairly long break.

Today’s riders:Dylan, Graham, Connor, Dave F, Craig L, John Keen, Eleanor, Kevan,
Kevin, James, Matt and dad Chris, Ewart, Andy H, Jules and me (Jed).

Report submitted by Jed - thanks to him for an excellent - but arduous! ride

Loggerheads direct

2011-01-30T17:38:00.005Z

Once again a huge turnout at the club - must have been 40+ riders. I set off with the long group to Loggerheads - we didn't get very far till Gareth punctured in Delamere Forest and the shorter group went past us, never to be seen again.

Graham led and up through Kinnerton advised us to stop at the main road (he was planning to cross it and take us on a roundabout route) but the riders at the front got into "head down" mode and went up the hill on the main road, by which time Graham decided time was ticking and we'd better get to the cafe, so we set off to Loggerheads reversing the normal return route from Llanberis, and were up the hill past the Rainbow in no time. A large group of twenty of us made it to the cafe at Loggerheads, which is very classy - their beans are "proper" beans not Heinz - but we didn't stop long as we didn't want to get caught out in bad light.

As you can see from the photo above the sun was shining and we had a lovely day of it but it was VERY cold and we encountered quite a bit of ice on the minor roads which Graham used to take us home, reversing his intended route from this morning, via Soughton and New Brighton.

We had a nice civilised phalanx down the hill from Kinnerton when Gareth punctured (again - your wheels are clearly too skinny Gareth!). Then things got stupid (well it was bound to happen) on the A56 out of Chester when various riders with a surfeit of testosterone decided to up the ante: those of us who'd been further back (and in my case at least with less testosterone) ended up killing ourselves to get back onto this group but we did manage it although at some cost to our legs! And so back through Delamere Forest with the normal race, I gather Ewart won and Kev came second and I was pleased with myself for hanging onto the second group with Keith and Kevin. It was good to see Elaine Kay at Hatchmere but by this time there was no sign of our run leader Graham so we hope he's OK?

A quick word of praise for our two juniors James and Dylan who were amazing, staying in the front groups for the whole ride and taking their turn on the front. They looked like they could keep going for ever!

Kev has a new Garmin so here are the basic facts (for Kev at least, I didn't work as hard as him!): 78 miles, 3196 ft elevation gain, 17.1 mph average speed, 4.31 hours moving time, av. temp 33.5F, and the best bit - calories 2739!!! Now that last piece of information is a reason to go cycling isn't it! Mind you I presumably have to halve that as I spent the whole ride hanging onto other people's wheels and hiding from the wind - but even then I now feel I can treat myself to one of those nice apple cream turnovers in Tesco's! Posted by Eleanor

Hip wiggling and pelvis rotating = freewheel success

2011-01-23T16:59:00.003Z

We rode out of Hartford in a huge group: I didn't count but there were well over 30 riders. We looked pretty impressive, with the majority of riders in club kit, although some drivers were probably rather less impressed with us than we were with ourselves! Some of us get tetchy (understatement) with car drivers, but we must be quite intimidating - it would take nerve and confidence to overtake. Unfortunately some drivers don't have either and just get cross. The roads were FULL of cyclists today, all trying out their Christmas presents now the weather is (very slightly!) warmer.

Anyway we rode through Tatton Park over to Siddington for the club freewheel championships. Steve Thomas kindly organises this, armed with zip ties to stop us pedalling. I was useless and nearly ground to a halt 200 metres from the start when a car at a junction caused me to brake and I only just kept moving. Garry Brown showed us how it was done and was looking like a winner till Steve managed to creep, with much Elvis like hip wiggling and pelvis rotating (can't wait for the club dinner - is there a disco?!) about 2 metres past Garry's winning point.

Most riders then rode up to AJs whilst a small group of us went to the hills, seeking some miles pre-Llanberis. Kev and I ended up at the cafe in Allgreave with Ewart, Alan Kemp, John Conboy, Mark Astles and Peter, (and a huge Liverpool Mercury contingent), Gareth having turned round earlier. The ride home was fast and I was quite relieved when Ewart punctured so we got to stop. We got home about 4 p.m. as it was becoming dark, with 69 miles on the clock and 900 metres of climbing.

An'ice ride to Prees

2011-01-09T16:59:00.002Z

There were loads of riders at Harford, all attracted by a sunny if cold day and their New Year's resolutions to get some miles in. One ride went to Holt, I went with the longer ride to Prees.
We were slightly disorganised to start with, but things did settle down eventually and we made a nice neat crocodile of riders making good progress on Cheshire lanes - until we hit the Peckforton Road, where we hit a big patch of ice and no fewer than seven riders hit the deck. We think this is probably a club record and we also think (hope) no-one was hurt too badly: although Ian looked sore and a few WVCC tops looked less than clean.

At that point we split as some riders decided to head to Holt rather than risk further ice; and we rode to Prees via Malpas in good time. The cafe at Prees is amazing - Kev and I had beans on toast + cheese + 2 cups of tea each + cake for £8. I don't know how they do it - I suppose that's called "stacking it high and selling it cheap" catering.

Then back home at what felt like a fast pace via Wrenbury and Wettenhall. It was a beautiful afternoon - there was a clear blue sky, and the sun had some warmth in it, which is a rare treat at the moment. I managed to keep up OK until the final hill into and then out of Whitegate when a race was declared and my legs went on strike. I'm not sure who won.

Thanks everyone for your company - making it to the cafe were navigator Graham, front rider Kev, Kevin, Ewart, Nick (amazingly, keeping up fine on a hybrid), Vince, Adrian, Peter, Alan, Simon, if I've left anyone out apologies, and let me know!

Club run to Two Mills

2010-11-21T16:11:00.002Z

The WVCC Allstars team at Two Mills. (What will it take to get Chris, Keith and Graham into club kit?!) (Craig you're allowed - for a bit anyway - because you're new: the others have no excuse!)

Lots of people at the Royal Legion this morning - most decided to go with Alan on the short ride to Beeston and about ten of us went on the longer ride to Two Mills. Graham led us on a circuitous route through the Forest, left up the hill towards Kelsall (allowing Kev to think we were going straight on, thereby catching him out in the wrong gear tee hee) and then on flatter terrain through Waverton, past Chester Zoo and through Backford and Capenhurst for a sprint finish to the cafe - Kev got his revenge on Graham with a well-timed jump past a tractor, which left the rest of us stranded 100 metres behind him.

Ian, Lou, Dave Astles, Kev, Graham, Richard Munro, Chris Latter and new riders Craig and Pete made it to the cafe where we met Keith (and Paul who'd diverted off from the shorter Beeston ride). We legged it back, with Keith putting in the odd acceleration to upset us all, and then a race back through the Forest with Kev pipping Keith to the finish. My computer showed 58 miles and an average speed of 16.6mph at the end. It was hard work but through judicious wheel-sucking I survived OK.

Posted by Eleanor.

The great WVCC mudguard challenge...

2010-10-31T19:12:00.003Z

Well Kev and I turned up at the Royal Legion at 8 a.m. (having intelligently put the clock forward not back) thinking it was 10 a.m. - and couldn't work out why there was nobody else there. Maybe they'd started at 9.30 - so we set off like bats out of hell towards Prees to catch them up - then at the top of the hill at Whitegate realised we'd got it badly wrong!! So we rode home, had a cup of coffee, consoled ourselves for the missed opportunity of a lie-in and made it back to the Royal Legion at 10 a.m., with a vague feeling of deja vu and much ribaldry from various club members who questioned how on earth we manage to hold jobs down. Good question I say!

The long ride was to Prees and a group of 15 made it all the way - Julian, Adrian, Chris, Gareth, Derek, Dennis, Garry, Jed, Kevin, Chris Latter, Nick B, Dave Astles, John Conboy and Kev and me. Apologies to anyone I've forgotten!

The ride out was fast and the roads very muddy, which challenged those of us with the new slimline crudcatcher mudguards - mine kept clogging up with mud which created a ridiculous amount of resistance, not that anyone had any sympathy: I think the general feeling was that this was a good thing as it kept me quiet!

The ride back got a bit silly along the Peckforton road as the racers decided to go for it - unfortunately Jed got caught in a melee when an approaching car caused a sudden
de-acceleration - he had a bad fall and ended up with an injured shoulder, hand and knee. He was also concussed - which affected his short-term memory (he couldn't remember the incident at all) but not his speed - we were all carefully nursing him back home at a nice steady pace when he decided he'd had enough of going slowly, got to the front and established a cracking pace, leaving us all breathing out of our ears. I hope you're alright Jed, do let us know.

Anyway this was a good run, I found it very hard (not just because of the crudcatchers, I'm just not fit enough having missed several weeks of club runs). Kev and I did 79 miles at an average speed of 16.6mph, but that includes our unnecessary early morning mileage too!

Posted by Eleanor

Autumn Road Race - cyclists defy floods!

2010-10-03T16:52:00.002+01:00

Well races don't come much wetter. Unlike those soft golfers in South Wales, our cyclists weren't prepared to throw in the towel (although a towel might have come in quite handy) - and 40 brave souls battled through flooded roads and torrential downpours today, to compete in the BC regional "B" series Weaver Valley Autumn Road Race.

The heavy rain led to the race being re-routed after two laps, to avoid a badly flooded stretch of road at the base of Acton Cliff. At this point the race was neutralised by the chief commissaire, when he realised that the flood waters were too deep for the officials’ cars, let alone the cyclists – and having brought the riders to a halt, the race was then re-started, using smaller laps, on an adapted loop, along the A49 and through Weaverham village.

After the re-start, a group of 11 riders soon established a significant gap from the main bunch and stayed away for the rest of the race, which was eventually decided on the uphill A49 section of the last lap, when four riders rode away from the bunch. The final winner, Steve Stoneman from FP Mailing, sprinted away on the final straight, winning by a clear margin from second rider Peter Ware from St. Helens CRC. Chris Diggle (Kuota Spinergy GSG) and Anthony Allan (Macclesfield Wheelers) came in 3rd and 4th, with our very own Dave McKay showing off his fast twitch muscles by winning the bunch sprint for 5th place.

WVCC's Andy Newby put on a particularly brave performance: he was caught out by the
re-start and, finding himself stuck in the second group, with the lead group racing away, decided to attempt to bridge the 200 metres gap - which he did successfully, resulting in an excellent 9th place and some much sought-after BC points. Kevan did well too, riding strongly in with the second group until they were pulled out by the race officials on the final lap - whilst Nick Butterworth said that he just couldn't get warm, and sensibly headed for an early bath! It was good to see Garry Date, ex Weaver Valley, also in the race.

Hats off to all those of you who braved the wet and cold to help out - WVCC is a fantastic club, in terms of the support its members demonstrate for events like this - so many people were involved in so many different ways - drivers, officials, signing on, doing refreshments, marshalling, first aid etc etc - many thanks to you all for making an event like this possible.

Loggerheads - the way club runs should be!

2010-08-08T18:14:00.006+01:00

This photo was taken during a very long cow stop on the way home from Loggerheads. But we were all bushed, so the stop (for about 1001 cows all walking very slowly) was very welcome.
This was one of the best club runs I've done, with a baker's dozen making it to the cafe - Vince, Kev C, Kev U, Keith, Chris, Julian, Jack, Martin, Dylan, Jed, Ian, Karl and me. (Craig and Chris L peeled off on the way there.) It was a long and hilly route but despite a mix of fitness, age and experience, we all stayed together all the way there and all the way back, which is exactly how club runs should be - and a great day we had of it: good riding, beautiful quiet country roads and good chats (at least on the flat bits!) We rode out via the route we normally do on the Llanberis weekend, (Chester, Higher Kinnerton, Penyffordd and the big hill up from Pontblyddyn), but then taking a right at Rhydtalog onto a fabulous 5 mile descent towards the cafe. On the way back Ian turned right at the Rainbow and introduced us onto lovely (but undulating, with lots of gratuitous height gains and losses) minor roads and eventually (after some navigational debates and reference to GPS) back down to the welcome flatness of the Cheshire plain, and so home via Holt, Tattenhall and Tarporley. We got back at 4.45 and I had 96 miles and an average speed of 16.4mph on my computer, which wasn't bad going considering all the hills. Thanks to everyone for a great ride and great company, and a mention in dispatches to Dylan who shows incredible stamina, speed and strength for a 14 year old.
There was quite a crowd at the British Legion this morning - one group rode to Summertrees, I don't know how they got on, maybe someone will post a comment or a thread on the forum. Once again, it was great to see so many new riders getting stuck in. (Carol how did it go?!)
Posted by Eleanor.

Alan's Guide Dog ride

2010-08-01T21:45:00.004+01:00

Over 30 riders including lots of new adult riders, and (probably) a record turn out of ladies and lots of youngsters. And somehow Alan managed to keep everyone together and everyone entertained!

There was a hill climb, a sprint and one 4 mile road race for the youngsters and another for the adults. The winners were Kev, Graham, James and Kev respectively - well done them. And a few other well dones: to Alan for his organisation and encouragement; for everyone for joining in and raising money; to Andy who somehow managed to keep up with everyone despite being on his mountain bike with his 2 year old lad on the back; to young Liam who at only 10 coped brilliantly with the ride and had a nasty fall but rode on and kept smiling; to Jed who kept us all entertained scooting past in his yellow rocket; and in fact to all the youngsters who showed such enthusiasm and tenacity in keeping up. It's great to see how our youngsters are coming on with their Sunday rides and visits to the track - they're looking dead fit and have learned to ride really well in a group. And I gather we raised over £300 for the guide dogs - not a bad day out!

Posted by Eleanor.

Kids rool...

2010-07-01T22:34:00.002+01:00

Sun 27th June:Kids run to Two Mills - thanks Claire for this report...
Only six of us set out today, including Connor, Robert and Elinor. We quickly felt the heat as we climbed through Kingsley and over the top at Newton towards Mickle Trafford, bound for Two Mills. We took a new part of the cycleway from Guilden Sutton to Shotwick, and it was great to see how much it had expanded and improved. As we made our through Woodbank to Eureka Cafe, we were passed by Dylan and three other riders. This meant that there was a good crowd of Weaver Valley members to have a long coffee stop together. The children were joined by James, who had arrived with another group, so five of them sat under the shade of a tree, well away from their parents! On the way back, we took the railway path at Capenhurst, and travelled towards Dunham and Manley Mere. It would not be the kids run without a few minor falls – you know who you are! The final part of the route home was pleasingly quiet, as most people were by now watching the England football game. Thank you Dave for leading the kids on one of the most popular club routes, and one that avoids traffic for much of the way!

Wednesday Wrinklies Wriding to Wrexham

2010-07-01T22:31:00.002+01:00

Wed 23rd June: Wrinklie Run to Wrexham - thanks to Claire for this report..
A group of 16 riders rode to Chester on a hot, sunny day. We took the route used by the Countess of Chester Hospital Midnight walk down Dee Banks and Sandy Lane into Handbridge. Having crossed over the stretch of water where the swim took place in the Deva Triathlon on 6th June, we then followed the triathlon bike route through Eccleston, Pulford and Rossett. When we detoured around the foot of Marford Hill, a couple of us were flagging, and were glad not to be going up to Gresford. The relaxed lunch stop was a Garden Centre between Borras and Holt, and the service was excellent, with free coffee refills. With great timing, we were joined by Dave Astles. The route back took us to the picturesque river crossing at Farndon, and to the charming hamlet of Coddington, along a route that that I last took on a freezing day in early February when there were snowdrops under the trees. Thank you to the riders who gave me a push or a wheel to follow, or gave me words of encouragement when I had to dig deep! Thank you also to Jed for leading a really interesting and enjoyable run.

Oulton Park 2

2010-06-18T22:05:00.003+01:00

Lots of WVCC folk out this week, on a warm sunny evening.
I have only a vague idea of what happened generally because I was too busy chatting (what's new I hear you say). That's apart from my own race when I was far too puffed to chat. Alan went off the front after 3 laps or so and no-one had the courage to try and get across to him, so he time trialled in glorious isolation to an excellent win. Behind him various people tried, but no-one managed to get away and I managed to stay with the bunch and even had a (rather pathetic) attempt at a sprint finish. Notable in the sprint was a 16 year old Jess Crampton (sister to Matthew Crampton), who looked great in pink and came in third - well done girl - one to watch. Other riders out tonight (sorry if I've missed anyone) were Dave Astles in my race, Garry Brown, Ewart, Max, Les and Kev in the over 50s, John Conboy and Richard Munro in the over 40s and Gareth, Craig, Derek, Chris Cain and Andy Newby in the youngsters' race - Chris Cain got into a good-looking break but I think that got swallowed up. Lots of WVCC talent involved in running the event including Martin on crutches with a bad knee, and an impressive contingent from the Wednesday Wrinklies - and even more WVCC talent amongst the supporters, including the junior Conboys demonstrating that they have inherited their father's natural turn of speed, on their scooters. Great atmosphere, good racing and it's nice to ride on smooth tarmac for once!
Posted by Eleanor.

John Boote Memorial Senior Road Race 13/6/2010

2010-06-13T18:45:00.003+01:00

An excellent race today - exciting to watch, the weather held up well and everyone got back safely. Graham had a full entry of 60 plus ten reserves, and lots of people who turned up on the day in the hope of an entry on the line, so there was a full field, of mostly 2nd and 3rd cat riders. A Crewe rider tried to go off on his own and survived for a couple of laps before being caught - then a well organised breakaway of 16 or so created an unassailable gap - we marshals were delighted to see that Dave McKay made it into this group. In the meantime Kev, Craig and Nick were safely in the main bunch, although Nick succumbed to cramp towards the end of the race. The breakaway group split up in the last few laps and the race was won by Dave Hitchen from New Brighton (he was second last year apparently) - Dave got into the first 20 but I'm not sure of his exact position - then Craig just beat Kev on the line, as they finished along with the remnants of the bunch.
Great organisation as usual from Graham, Alan Silver and Gary, with lots of support from WVCC members. There's a grumpy letter in Cycling Weekly this week, that says riders nowadays won't take on organising or marshalling races - this certainly doesn't seem to apply to WVCC, where everyone seems happy to accept this occasional (and enjoyable) responsibility.
Posted by Eleanor.

Pickmere TLI

2010-06-04T18:52:00.003+01:00

Alan warned me it would be fast and it was! Apparently there were a lot of good riders out. An interesting format tonight, where the over 55s were set off 2 minutes ahead of the under 55s and it was a handicap race. I managed to stay with my lot - just - then the young 'uns caught us on the 5th lap at which point everything speeded up significantly - I was hanging on for grim death but the elastic snapped just after the last corner on the last lap. Alan was in a breakaway but they didn't organise themselves as well as he would have liked, and got caught by the main bunch on the back straight of the last lap. Alan competed for the sprint and I gather did well (6th or 7th I think?) Nick, Kev and Andy Newby did well too, coming in in that order. I did 24.9 av mph and 32 miles - one of the hardest races I've done so far, a good proportion of it was flat out in top gear, there was very little sitting up tonight. Posted by Eleanor

Juniors ride to AJs - thanks Claire for the report

2010-06-04T18:50:00.005+01:00

There were 11 riders, including 6 children, in this group today - Dave, Caroline and Connor Fearon, Claire, Robert and Elinor O'Brien, Derek and Claire Heine, Steven Shields, and also Dylan and Phil Sharrock. After the heavy rain the day before, it was a relief to have some sunny weather, even if it was accompanied by some strong, gusty wind at times. We headed for 'AJs' at Henbury through Davenham, Withington Green and Siddington. Dave has taken up the challenge to find routes that I haven't done before, and so we found ourselves off-road again on a trail that cut a corner off Booth Bend Lane. It really was a lovely route past Jodrell Bank and Redes Mere, along some of my favourite roads. Lunch was a lively affair on the children's table! Then we took a stretch of road to Vardentown that I hadn't taken before, and then followed a picturesque road at Windmill Wood that Robert and I had ridden on the Jodrell Bank Cyclosportive. The road from Alderley Edge through Mobberley to Ashley was interesting but slightly marred by some bad driving, with fast cars overtaking very closely. We had a welcome stop at Tatton for an ice-cream, and the sun came out from behind the clouds to provide a real bank holiday atmosphere. At Knutsford, Connor suffered a puncture, and some of the riders elected to cycle slowly to Great Budworth leaving the main group to catch up. I was with the group that opted for another ice-cream at Great Budworth before finishing the ride at 50 miles. We didn't see the faster group until the end, but I gather that they cycled 55 miles, detouring through Neumanns Flash and Marbury. There was a tumble in each of the groups, probably because the children were getting a bit tired by now, although nothing worthy of a prize at the Christmas Dinner, thank goodness! Everyone finished tired, but happy with their achievement! Thank you Dave for leading us on another enjoyable kids run! (Special mention should go to Dylan, who cycled to and from Winsford in addition to the club run, and who was still fresh as a daisy!)

TLI Macclesfield

2010-05-25T22:13:00.003+01:00

I really enjoyed this one, a longer circuit than the Lower Withington race and a few more hills but nothing too scary. Alan won his race, Nick and Kevan ended up in the break on their race and came in 8th and 9th so did really well, and other WVCC racers strutting their stuff were Andy Newby, Ewart, Graham, Dave Astles and Mark Thomson. I ended up in a chasing group of nine in my race and we did through and off for the second and third lap - it was good to be organised for once, as the other TLI races have mostly involved large bunches and no-one working together. Then I displayed a complete lack of tactical judgement by being at the front at the bottom of the hill before the finishing straight - but at least Mark said he appreciated my lead out (I was Greipel and he was Mark Cavendish) and he ended up winning our bunch sprint!
Posted by Eleanor

2nd Kids' run to Nanney's Lock - report from Claire

2010-05-24T19:53:00.006+01:00

There were 12 adults and kids today setting off for Nanney's Lock Marina between Church Minshall and Nantwich. We passed the riders from the Nantwich triathlon that was taking place at the same time, and for which I had a number! Dave Fearon wore some very fetching 'faded denim'-look shorts from the 1980s to complete his retro-fixie image! We were joined by Chris Graham and Andy, until after lunch, because they lost their group whilst looking for Andy's odometer that fell off. The rest of us included Elinor and Robert O'Brien, Caroline and Connor Fearon, a new boy Dylan, Steven, and Alison and Claire Heine. Having assured everyone that there were no hills, we ended up going through Whitegate on the 'out' and back up the road from Church Minshall to Winsford! We took a very steady pace, and rode about 26 miles in the blazing-hot sun. Tucking into a tuna pannini, with a lovely view of the narrow boats, I did not regret skipping the nearby Cheshire Triathlon at all! Dave decided to liven things up nearer home, by taking us off-road between Nova Scotia and Sandiway, on a trail parallel to the Whitegate Way. A couple of riders took a spill in the sand but no harm done! We passed Andy in the long grass at Gorstage acting very suspiciously, but he was actually still looking for his odometer! We all had a terrific time and agreed to do a ride again next week. Thank you Dave for leading us on a great ride! (Andrew and James Risk were on the last day of their C2C today, so I hope that went well too!) Claire ('The kit lady')

A hilly time trial - report from Kevin Campbell

2010-05-19T20:39:00.002+01:00

Tyneside Vagabonds Mountain Time Trial 2010, was the 55th running of the event since it started in 1947. In the last few years Paul and Nick have been regulars, taking the opportunity to renew old acquaintances, and ride on roads where they began their cycling careers. This year I joined them, and at approx 14:15hrs on the Sunday, was actually pleased I did.

With typical meticulous planning Paul had managed to submit all the entries, book the overnight accommodation, and ensure that our start times were close enough together so that we were scheduled to start and finished at around the same sort of time, give or take 10mins

We set off at lunchtime Saturday, and after a café stop in the Brief Encounter in Langwathby (highly recommend) arrived at the Bay Horse, Stamfordham at around 17:30. The Bay Horse is a B&B, cum pub, cum restaurant, and sells a range of real ales as well. The food in the restaurant was fantastic, with portions so large that it was impossible to finish. Highly recommended, and if you are anywhere near it is worth a detour.

The morning started off very cool, and overcast, and it was difficult to know how many layers to put on. The start sheet was impressive, but Kevin Dawson was a DNS, and the favourite was Chris Newton. The wind direction was in the main a head wind on the way out, tail wind home

The course itself is a challenge, constantly undulating for mile after mile, and occasionally rising very steeply. There were some tricky descents to negotiate, however due to the head wind, maximum speeds were not as high as they could have been. There were also long stretches where you had the opportunity of putting it in the big ring and picking up some speed. It was a real mixed bag. In the main the rain held off apart from one sharp shower and a drop in temperature. Along the way there was a timed ascent on one of the climbs, which added interest to the ride. By far the most memorable part of the circuit though was the final 7.5 miles or so. Turning left onto the A696 and heading for home on good roads and with a tail wind. After 40miles, big chain ring, small sprocket, down on the tribars, and clocking up speeds on the flat of over 35mph!!

The winner on the day was, as expected, Chris Newton, coming in at just over 1h 50min, a truly remarkable time. The HQ after the event was crammed full and the spread that was laid on by the host club was impressive also and a very friendly atmosphere.

Paul managed a PB, Nick fighting his way back from illness was pleased with his time, and I was also happy having managed not to get caught by the other two.

The return home was finished off by a café stop at the Brief Encounter for tea and cake, and a promise to have another go. As far as results go, there were 18 teams and 86 finishers. Weaver Valley finished 14th, Paul was 46th (2.27.19), Nick 51st (2.28.40), and I finished 73rd (2.38.57).

TLI 4 - a lesson in futility unless your surname is Kemp

2010-05-18T22:32:00.004+01:00

A brief report tonight I promise. Gareth and Andy Newby had a go off the front in the young 'uns race but didn't get anywhere. Nick had a go off the front in the over 40s race but also didn't get anywhere. Mark Thompson had a go off the front in the over 60s race but he didn't get anywhere either. I hid at the back in the same race so wasn't ever going to get anywhere anyway. Alan Kemp, hobbling and in pain with a very bad back, had a go off the front in the over 60s race and won. You've either got it or you haven't I suppose!
Kevan and Richard M marshalled and Dave Astles and Chas provided welcome vocal support.
Eleanor.

Thurstaston - then there were two

2010-05-16T23:06:00.005+01:00

Not sure where the shorter ride went, but the longer ride, led by Jed, went to Thurstaston (not easy to say if you have a lithp). It was like 8 green bottles. We started with a nice, companionable and conversationally-compatible bunch of 8 and set off through Crowton and beyond on a pleasantly-roundabout route to Delamere Forest (including a steep hill up to near Hatchmere, which I'd not done before), where Craig left us, and then there were 7. Graham and Dave McKay left us just before we got to the A56 and Andy Poole at Chester, by which time there were only four: Jed, John Chrystal, Kevan and me. We rode out along the river into a strong headwind: it must have been tough on the front - I stayed as close as I could to whichever wheel was in front of me! Having ridden to within 100 metres of Two Mills, Kevan and I wimped out and left John and Jed to get to Thurstaston on their own. Did they get there? That's the question. Maybe one or other of them will post a comment on this blog to let us know. Knowing Jed, he will have persuaded John to ride out to New Brighton for a 100 miler!
Posted by Eleanor

Fred Whitton - a report from Gareth

2010-05-12T21:20:00.002+01:00

For those of you who haven't heard of the Fred Whitton ride, its basically 112 miles over most of the Lake District passes, ascending some 4000 metres at gradients of up to 30%. Last Sunday Derek and myself gave it a go. Starting at the sports centre in Coniston we set off at just after 8am. It was a cold start but the sun was shining and as long as it stayed dry we would be happy. So off we headed for 14 miles to the base of the first climb of the day, the Kirkstone Pass. But before we even arrived the route kicked up straight out of the centre and instantly we were warmed up and feeling slightly overdressed and apprehensive of what was to come. Always in the back of our minds were the monster climbs of Hardknot and Wrynose that we would arrive at after 100 miles. The Kirkstone Pass was then tackled and with our legs and minds now warmed up we headed towards Keswick. We were riding together at a reasonably brisk pace when a quick glance rearwards on the A66 would reveal that we were about to swallowed up by the Wheelbase team and all those who were also out to set a fast time for the day. So we seized the opportunity and slotted into the group of 30 or 40 so riders for about the next 10 miles and enjoyed a slight respite, even though it did feel somewhat like a road race. People were cheering from the sides of the road, and there was a great atmosphere and buzz within the group. We then arrived en masse at the base of the Honister Pass where the party would end as off shot the semi-pros to leave us mere mortals to tackle the near 30% incline. Unfortunately it was at this point an ambulance made its way past us to attend to a crash on the descent, reminding us to take things easy. The roads are extreme at the best of times and after a hard winter weren't in great condition. Once back at lower levels we stopped for lunch in Buttermere at the feed station having completed 50 miles. Our backs were aching from the climbs and strangely so were our arms which reminded me that I really must do some exercise other than cycling! Straight out of the feed station came the Newlands Pass, another relatively steep climb before we headed over to Whinlatter. The climbs were more steady on this side of the Lakes and I think we were both settling into a good pace and not feeling too tired. The scenery was quite different too with the mountain ranges giving way to moorland and costal views. A brief stop at Calder Bridge for some more refreshment and a quick stretch saw us complete just over 80 miles. And then the apprehension returned as we knew the infamous Hardknot and Wrynose passes were not too far away. Again we set a good pace and headed for the base of Hardknot, crossing the cattle grid at the bottom and being wished good luck and well done from bystanders. At the first hairpin bend, and 30% incline I heard a cry of "cramp!" from Derek. I laughed, (sympathetically of course) as I plodded my way up. I thought I was doing quite well with my 39-25 gearing until I reached the second hairpin bend about two thirds of the way up when my head gave in and I had to climb off defeated. I pushed a few hundred metres before climbing back on to the top and then down the tricky descent to the valley below. On reaching Wrynose I wasn't going to give in this time, and dug deep up the steep section past many other weary looking cyclists to reach the top. Pleased with myself, if only for saving my cleats a little I then descended quickly and enjoyed the fast run back into the centre, averaging what must have been about 25mph. I crossed the line just after 4pm with Derek only a few minutes behind. Back at Dereks camper van we bumped into Gary Date with all his usual enthusiasm before enjoying our "Wilfs cafe" chilli and a well earned pint of San Miguel. I would recommend the ride to anyone, especially of you enjoy climbing. I've never seen roads so steep, but the sense of achievement and stunning scenery definitely made it the most epic ride I've ever done. Next, the Dragon Ride in South Wales...

TLI 3

2010-05-11T21:48:00.003+01:00

Richard M, Andy Newby and Nick competed in the younger race - Nick got into a fast breakaway and managed to stay with them till the end. Kev, Mark T and I rode in the older race. Kev was determined to get into the "break that mattered" and tried to latch onto anything that looked promising, only to miss the key move! He still hasn't quite mastered this tactics thing. He then tried to ride off the front again with a mile to go, only to get caught by the whole world and his wife - literally in this case - the first time I've beaten Kevan at anything apart from table tennis! A nice ride tonight and thankfully no crashes this week. Eleanor.

Three rides in one day

2010-05-09T19:40:00.003+01:00

Here is a picture of our junior ride enjoying the sunshine...

Three rides today - one longer one, one shorter one, and one for juniors and beginners - an excellent idea, and judging by the numbers at the British Royal Legion, one that is proving v. popular. Dave Fearon led this ride, Alan took the shorter ride to Nantwich Marina and Kev and I joined the longer ride to Prees, led by Chris Latter. We were joined by a small but well marked group including Martin, Lou, John C and Max and enjoyed a brisk ride out via Peckforton and Gallantry Bank - beautiful (but chilly) spring sunshine showing Cheshire off at its best. All v. uneventful until a pile up when Chris punctured and Lou and Martin went into the back of him - which must have looked fairly apocalyptic to the passing car driver - but all was well and they were back up quickly. Soon after Kev and I turned back home as we had a rugby match to watch that afternoon.
It would be good to hear how our ride finished and about the other two rides, if you want to let us know, post a comment on this blog.
Eleanor.

TLI 2

2010-05-04T22:02:00.002+01:00

Another good night's racing. Andy Newby, Chas and Gareth rode in the youngsters' race - sorry I don't know how they did, maybe one of them will post a comment - I know Andy said he worked hard in various efforts to get off the front but was frustrated that there was no organisation and he didn't manage to get away.

Graham, Kevan and I were in the oldies race. After riding the first kilometre at snail's pace the race suddenly picked up on the A535, and then one rider fell badly, which split the peleton - I ended up behind the crash so had to burst a blood vessel to get back to the main group, and a few riders behind me were dropped at this point. Then a break of 3 got away, followed by another break of 2 - Kev left it too late to follow them, and then tried really hard to reach them but he was on his own - he got within 20 metres at one point but he had no support and ended up coming back to the group, which failed to make any headway, largely because of a lack of organisation.

I enjoyed being in the bunch, trying to keep up with the constant change of pace and frequent moves at the front, most of which involved Kevan. All the time this was going on, Graham was keeping his counsel at the back of the bunch and both Kev and I were convinced he'd do his normal trick of sprinting past Kevan on the line - instead Kev went off the front of the bunch with a good kilometre to go and held the gap, coming in first of the bunch and 6th in the race - Graham and I finished in the bunch.

Vital stats from my bike computer (which includes the 1km slow ride in at the end): 28.2 miles (we only did 5 laps because it was getting dark), average 21.3mph, max 34.2 mph, riding time 1.19 hours.

As normal it was good to see lots of WVCC support: Nick, Dave A and Alan were marshalling, Richard was supporting and Martin and Mark did their normal great job as organisers.
For anyone who's dithering about entering, the fact that there's great home-made cake afterwards might entice you!
Eleanor.

Thanks to Chas for these TLI pics...(report below)

2010-04-30T18:16:00.005+01:00

It's racing time

2010-04-27T23:10:00.004+01:00

Well I'm feeling very virtuous having raced twice in three days! On Sunday I entered the National Women's Series Road Race in Weaverham - it was a fantastic race, and was described by Paralympic gold medallist Sarah Storey, who came second, as the best women's race she's ever ridden in the UK. For more details have a look at http://new.britishcycling.org.uk/sport/article/roa20100425-Report--Cheshire-Classic-Women-s-Road-Race-0
The elite and first cat riders set off at an incredible pace and it was eyeballs out stuff for the rest of us. After one and a half laps of relentless chasing I found myself with a group of 12 or so who'd been shelled out of the main pack (in the meantime a fast group had ridden off ahead so we were now the third group). I managed to keep up with this group for a couple of laps, but it was flat out through and off-ing and I knew I'd struggle to maintain the pace for ten laps. There was just no let up at all. Anyway to cut a long story short I was dropped from my group after about five laps, rode on my own (a royal tour, waving at all our lovely marshals) for a bit, then got pulled out when I got lapped by the leaders - and was chuffed to bits to find I'd still got placed - 42 out of 44 finishers, but there were over 50 riders so I didn't come last and given that most of the girls were of the serious athlete variety I was quite happy with my day. As normal, brilliant organisation from Terry and the WVCC team.

Then tonight, back to the TLI series at Lower Withington. Richard M and Gareth rode in the young chaps' race and both did well, finishing safely in the pack. I rode in the old chaps' race which was really a "mark Alan Kemp" event - lots of sprinting to close down breaks and then easing up till the next attempt. At one stage I found myself in a well-organised chasing group and I worked hard to do my bit - forgetting the rule that you don't chase down a leading group if a club member is in the group! Sorry Alan! Alan was completely unperturbed and despite being closely marked all race he still managed to win the sprint - amazing. I had a great time and finished safely in the first half of the pack which I was happy with.

Anyway if anyone's wondering if they should enter they should go for it - TLI races are well organised, friendly and welcoming. Eleanor.

A ride through Sandstone country to Erbistock

2010-04-18T20:49:00.005+01:00

Carl, Kevin, Richard, John, Chris and Kevan enjoying spring sunshine at Erbstock..

A good turn out at Hartford - the shorter group set off for a circuitous ride to the ice cream farm whilst I joined the longer group, setting off to Bangor on Dee and led by Richard Munro. There were nine of us, some of whom were dressed for a cold winter's day. As we rode through Whitegate the mist cleared and the sun shone, and by the time we got to the top of Harthill on the Peckforton ridge we had some very hot riders! This was spring cycling at its best, past a succession of chocolate-box villages and old sandstone churches, with hedges greening up, trees in blossom, lots of daffodils and even primroses along the verges. Graham, Dave Astles and John Green turned off for Holt and the rest of us continued on to Bangor, at which point Chris came up with the idea of extending the ride to Erbistock - a pretty hamlet next to the River Dee - pretty enough to make the price of the posh (but minimalist) "open sandwiches" tolerable!

Kevan rode most of the return ride on the front, with Carl, Chris and John nipping out of the slipstream to up the ante and race up every rise/hill, so the pace inevitably picked up. We didn't hang about - and also didn't stop once between the cafe and home which must be some sort of record - no mechanicals, no red lights, and no calls of nature - and I found myself riding up hills in my big ring, which made me feel like a proper cyclist!

Thanks Richard for a great ride, and thanks John for the welcome push just as we approached Whitegate - you obviously spotted that my legs had finally given up!

Eleanor.

Spring has sprung

2010-03-28T17:20:00.004+01:00

Well it must be spring, because we're setting off at 9.30 on Sundays now. I know the "old" diary says 10 a.m. and it said 10.30 in the Guardian but they're all wrong and we were right. This confusion might explain the lower than normal numbers out for a ride today - probably 12 or so of us and a very nice civilised group we were, with no-one sprinting off the front or mixing it, much to my relief.

Richard led and as you'd expect from Richard, as the ride was listed as going to Two Mills, he set off in the opposite direction and took us via Oulton Park to Beeston for a few extra miles - then on a circuitous route round Chester and along a very windy river where we had a master class in riding in echelons.

Anyway eventually we made it to Two Mills where we met Dave Astles, Gareth and Emma, Keith and Jed, all of whom had ridden there under their own steam. And then home the direct way, with Jed zooming past us periodically in his Quest, only for us to then overtake him on the hills. A special mention to young James with dad Andrew who last week rode the furthest they'd ever ridden (60 miles) and this week rode even more, 70 miles - James looked remarkably fresh even at the end whilst Andrew was looking a little more weary - but that's fatherly devotion for you! All good training for their planned Coast to Coast ride in May. Thanks Richard an enjoyable ride and it was especially good to see John Crystal out again.

Eleanor

Llanberis 2010

2010-02-28T17:50:00.004Z

An amazing weekend! Somewhere between 40 and 50 cyclists made it to Llanberis and back in weather that was considerably better than the forecast and infinitely better than the Acopalypse of two years ago. So we had a tailwind on the way out and nothing much to worry us on the way back other than a bit of sleet at the top of Pen y Pass. I did 183 miles, and cycled for 11 hours 30 minutes at an average speed of 15.9 mph, aided I should say throughout by my personal domestique, who let me sit close on his wheel the whole way - hats off to the rest of you who didn't have the same protection! The worst bit: probably the ride back from Chester through the Forest, by which time anything more than a 5% gradient meant I had to resort to ticking uphill in my very easy granny gear (30x27). The best bits: riding up to the forest before Ruthin on the way back, and being passed by four groups (it's always nice to say hello to other riders) then finally by a large group of ten or so - we somehow managed to find the energy to attach ourselves onto the back of this group with whom we then stormed over the summit and pelted down the long (7 mile?) descent into Ruthin, hoovering up 3 or the 4 groups on the way - descending that fast in a group was incredibly exhilarating (and a bit scary, especially when we encountered a stretch of road full of hedge cuttings). Anyway I don't know about everyone else but my legs are now 100% dead. Many thanks to Graham for a great weekend, excellent organisation, and for forgoing his own riding to the greater good of the club, to drive the van for us. Also thanks to Steve Thomas, Alan Silver and everyone who helped with the driving.
Eleanor.

"Just to Two Mills..."

2010-02-09T00:02:00.000Z

Well how hard can a ride to Two Mills be, I thought to myself as 11 of us set off from Hartford? I should've known as soon as Alan Kemp decided to take the lead and direct us over towards his favourite training grounds. Down to the ice cream farm and already we were down to 10, some more hills later it was 9. Kevin Underhill then had a mechanical on the way over to Summertrees so then we were 8 before 3 others decided the relentless pace and hills were enough after their ride the previous day (which Alan and Ewart were on too). So the remaining 5 of us, including Ewart, Dane and Max pushed on up to the Kingsley mast before finally heading over to Two Mills. If I'd known it was going to be so tough I would've brought more provisions or eaten more for breakfast but as it was I could've nearly eaten the escapee cow we passed at the side of the road! After collecting a recovered Vince from Two Mills a "gentler" pace was taken back to Northwich to finish off what was for me an 88 mile ride. Thanks to Alan for leading a great ride, showing me more Cheshire roads I never knew existed and pushing us to work that bit harder than we normally would. I feel like I've been to Llanberis early this year!

Thanks for that Gareth

Well at least some of us managed to get some miles in

2010-01-31T23:38:00.002Z

Well at least some of us managed to get some miles in, despite the covering of snow and post-club-dinner-hangovers! Kev and I had a great ride on our mountain bikes up past Vale Royal Abbey, along the Whitegate Way (the dinky bits of singletrack along the side of the main path) then through the forest to the cafe - where whom did we meet but Jed and Derek, with five wheels between them. They announced they were the entirety of the club run and said that the roads were fine, no ice at all (it had thawed by then I think). On the way back we saw 1. Kevin, his son Jack and John Conboy then 2. Ross then 3. Nick - so WVCC was well represented on mountain bikes if not on road bikes! Maybe we should have a default arrangement that if it's snowy or icy, those of us who have knobbly tyres should meet and do an MTB club run instead?

It was wet but at least we were out...

2010-01-25T23:50:00.002Z

Well at least we managed a ride, after all that snow and ice, but it was of the very wet variety, the sort where you don't want to be either 1. the rider without the mudguards because everyone tuts at you or 2. the rider behind the rider without the mudguards because you get diluted slurry in your face, nostrils, ears - OK I won't go on, to protect the squeamish.

As it happened the ride was a good one, if character building. There was a good turn out and we rode in one group to Two Mills. Well when I say one group, we did manage to splinter into three groups somehow, but we were all happily reunited at the cafe. The ride back was uneventful other than the usual race through the Forest: Giles (who hasn't been seen on a club run for four years I gather, but he's clearly been doing some riding) rode away from Kevan for the sprinter's trophy.

Anyway we did about 60 miles in all at a reasonable pace, which all helps: although many of us expressed nervousness about not being ready for Llanberis.

Club dinner on Saturday, by the way - see the news page for details - you need to let Graham know asap if you want to come. Eleanor.

A message from Alan...

2010-01-06T20:09:00.001Z

Hello All,
Due to the continuing bad weather Sunday runs will be decided on a weekend by weekend basis.
Sunday 10th may not go ahead if it looks bad then chances are it is!, I can't commit to taking a ride for someone to come off and get injured, Sorry about this situation with Llanberis looming but I hope you all understand. Best thing at the moment is to give me a bell Saturdays before so I can make the decision as late as possible.

Many Thanks
Alan Silver

01606 352268
07976770431

2010-01-05T18:35:00.002Z

Hi Everyone

Happy New Year.

If anyone is interested in going to a talk by Emma Davis at Audlem on the 20th January contact Ian Middleton on ianmiddleton@uwclub.net for details or call him on 01270781223.

Sounds like it could be an interesting evening.

Punctures rule....

2009-12-07T22:35:00.002Z

Thanks to Alan Silver for this run report...
A good turn out lead by Alan despite the cold & damp 19 in total All set off in the same direction but within 4 miles the first of many punctures ,Dave Astles the first victim and in heavy rain, Kevan,Alan Kemp,Kevin Campbell,Dane & Dave Fearon had a more pressing appointment with the hills so carried on with their ride. After a short distance our group caught the 5, yes one had a puncture Dane i think, but the other side of the forest they appeared again, so there was a group of 19 again but as speed & age kicked in the gap got bigger & bigger therefore after collecting Gary Brown at the junction of A556 at Aston the short group carried on to The Blue Moon on the Dee at Chester. Plenty of room in a nice warm cafe and the service was fast gave way to a hasty return home but the long way via the river & Conners Quay cycle way & old railway line cycle path that Ian had tested for us a while ago. This is when more trouble started ,Jedd with what we thought may have been a broken rim but no! then me with a puncture, then Ian with a puncture so after all the stops the tail wind was a good advantage as the short ride that normally gets home around 2-3pm ended the day 3.30 onwards.

WVCC Festive Season Walk and Lunch Jan 3rd...

2009-12-07T22:32:00.000Z

Weaver Valley CC Festive Season Walk & Lunch 2010
The Foresters Arms, Tarporley
(view from the walk)
Sunday 3rd January
If participating in the walk meet by the bus stop on Tarporley High St outside the Tarporley Community Centre from 1030hrs for a 1045hrs start.
If you only wish to attend the lunch then meet in the Foresters Arms just accross the road from the Community Centre at 1200hrs.

Please park at the Community Centre or on the High Street if possible, you are free to use the pub car park but it is quite small.
Boots or wellingtons are essential for the walk and a change of footwear for lunch would be advisable.
The walk should take about 1 hour.

I have booked lunch for 15 people provisionally but will be phoning the landlord
with a more precise number on Monday 28th December.

Please e-mail me at paul9.lawson@virgin.net or text or call me
on 07950 912004 before 1200hrs on the 28th if you wish to attend the lunch.

Merry Christmas
Paul Lawson

A hilly ride to the ice cream farm

2009-11-26T23:56:00.000Z

A good group met at Hartford and split into a longer and a shorter group. John Conboy led the longer group which I joined. We rode out of Weaverham via Acton Bridge and a succession of short poky hills up to Kingsley, then over to Delamere Forest, and up the Yeld to Primrose Hill and then on through Tarporley. I risked my summer bike which I was glad about on those hills. We had a new rider with us - Dane - a bit of a racing snake - he rode up everything without breathing but even he, when confronted with the sight of the Yeld up ahead, said "oh blimey" or something similar anyway. Eventually the fast riders got fed up of waiting for the rest of us and John Green sensibly suggested those of us who had mislaid our fast twitch muscles might do better forming our own group - which is what we did and we enjoyed the ride into the cafe at a more sensible space than the fast boys up ahead. Kev and I had to ride back early so I don't know how everyone else got on. A nice ride through some new quiet lanes in good company and with reasonable weather - thanks John for leading.

A post from Nick...

2009-11-15T20:40:00.001Z

Thanks to Nick for the following run report...
Alan Silver took one group and Paul Lawson led the rest of us (about 18 to start with) along the lanes through Nantwich and Wybunbury to Dagfields for an early lunch. 12 of us enjoyed beans or the local delicacy; Staffordshire oatcakes, gallons of tea and victoria sponge. Just as well I had the extra cake, as a steady short ride out was made up for with a brisk, circuitous ride back past Cholmondeley Castle, Bickerton and Beeston. It was good to get out on a clubrun as I don't make many, to catch up with people and meet some of the new/returning members - I don't think the club has ever been more vibrant. Lovely sunshine and a helpful tailwind made it all the more pleasant - thanks Paul, you know the Cheshire lanes as well as Ross knows the Delamere singletrack!

A message from Gary Date; and a confession.

2009-11-01T19:22:00.004Z

Gary Date sends the following message from the Lakes: I am going to start getting ready for the Fred Witton ( I wanna get sub 9 hours) I know I am already entered, plus my flat is a good base point for training loops etc. I'm sure we all wish him well...

And an Underhill confession: were we the only ones who heard the wind and rain driving on our bedroom windows at 9 a.m. this morning and decide to bury a bit deeper under the quilt and pretend it wasn't a club run morning? By 10.15 the rain had stopped and then we felt guilty about not having gone out on the club run (well I felt guilty, Kevan doesn't do guilt because he's a man). So in lieu of 3 x Our Fathers and a Hail Mary we went to Llandegla, where despite 40mph+ winds the car park was almost full, and we did the black run, which was great fun. If anyone turned up for the club run, hats off to you: tell Richard or me about it and we'll post a report on the blog.

Eleanor.

Allgreave, Blaze Farm from above!

2009-10-25T18:57:00.002Z

Aah the perils of the "grapevine". 9.30 start? or 10.00 start?
Well if your not sure best to try both! As some of us did who believed the website!
There were about half a dozen of us who were very cold by the time we set off at 10.05 having hung around since before 9.30!

Moral of the story....................believe the website NOT heresay. Sermon over.

So about 40 minutes after we arrived we set off for Allgreave knowing there was no way to get there without going up some pretty serious hills. The group was a healthy size as we rode east towards Macclesfield but mysteriously the closer we got to the hills the smaller the group became, not sure why?
We were left with a smaller group of hardy (spelt "Stupid") souls who were committed to the full experience. They were not disappointed and were soon rewarded with soaring heartrates, asthma, hot flushes, high blood pressure, cramping muscles and self doubt.
Richard was determined to debunk the myth that you can only get to Blaze Farm up a big hill so a new route was used. This involved riding up Wildboarclough then taking a long steep climb up to the Buxton road. The beauty of this approach was that we rode DOWN to Blaze farm for a change, much less tiring.

A shortish lunch break ( must tell them to be slower in future!) allowed us to resume our efforts to defy gravity on the climb back over the Dumbers and then the shoosh down to Bosley Crossroads. From here we took the usual route through North Rode, least that was the plan but a runaway train completely missed the turn for Marton.
Eleanor and Richard waited for them but to no avail. Then there were two.

Richard had been looking forward to a wheel back home but was now faced with an agonizing decision. Should he sit on Eleanor's wheel? No, he was too much of a gentleman for that so he took the lead and Eleanor dutifully tucked in. The problem then is you can't just "potter" can you? You have to demonstrate that you are easily capable of riding at 20mph into a fierce headwind and be manly about it, so with soaring heartrate we "cruised" back to Byley where we parted company and I took a well earned break (no hard feeling Eleanor).

The heads-down brigade have not been seen or heard of since North Rode but they are all big boys so we assume they got home OK.

A good day out, stayed dry and no punctures.

An apology, Claire in Cycling Weekly and other miscellaneous items...

2009-10-20T21:57:00.005+01:00

It appears not to have gone unnoticed, that since I've been in full employment again I've not been keeping the blog up to date: so I thought I should post an apology to regular fans (or otherwise) of this column, and provide at least a brief update on WVCC life as I've known it over the last few weeks...so here goes.

1. The main reason there have been so few updates is that there have been so few club runs - because we've all been marshalling etc. - what with our cyclo cross race, hill climb and BC road race in the last month, many of us have been busy judging, waving flags, making tea and standing getting cold on corners! All races went v. well and I think we should be really proud that WVCC can stage such excellent events. Having organised the road race myself for the first time this year, I can pay tribute to the strength and depth of WVCC expertise - there's a fantastic team in the club who (luckily) know what they're doing when it comes to race admin, judging, convoy driving, marshal organising, sign erection, refreshment preparation, risk assessments, radios/kit provision etc. etc. etc. Many thanks to everyone involved in organising and marshalling! I think we should consider setting up a Pro Tour team. Bags be Directeur Sportif.
2. Another reason why there have been so few updates is that I've been riding cyclo-cross races - Kev and I are trying to do the necessary 10 events to get a place in the North West league. It's great fun and great training so if you fancy doing one yourself, come and join us.
3. Who saw Claire O'Brien in this week's Cycling Weekly, on the cover and a massive picture of her inside, sporting her WVCC top! Well done Claire for a great ride and for promoting WVCC!
4. And of course we've had a track session which was called off because of paint fumes - Dave Fearon is now organising these so if you want to know more give him a ring or e mail him on Tel:01606 74577 Mob: 07989 382344 e-mail: nofearon@hotmail.com

Incidentally if I'm not riding the club runs on Sunday then please let your club mates know how you got on by sending a report to me on the.underhills@tesco.net. I'll post it as soon as I get it.

Zip ties rule...

2009-09-13T18:01:00.007+01:00

Lots of souls at Hartford this morning but most opted for Alan's shorter run - including two tandems courtesy of the Fearons and the Gregorys. Once it had been announced that the longer group was heading for the hills there was a notable lack of take-up and eight of us set off. Five minutes later we had to stop whilst Kev (having suffered a terminal mechanical) nipped home to change his bike, and the shorter group went past us with much "hare and tortoise" type ribaldry. We resumed our ride to Gawsworth where John Conboy and Lou left us - and then there were six. Kev took us up the left hand fork by the Leather Smithy in Macc Forest - you know the one, with the 25% gradient. Much smugness was expressed by those of us with triples. Our new (or rather returned after 20 years) rider John Keen struggled up on 39/23 only to hit a gutter and collapse into the banking on the side of the road - and broke his saddle/seatpost. He somehow still made it to the top of the hill at which point a "thank heavens for zip ties" fix was effected (see pics) and he rode off back to Macc to find a bike shop. So then there were five: Kev, me, Max, Keith and John Green. We rode up from Bottom of the Oven to the tea rooms above Rainow - can't remember the name - and to our horror found they were shut. There's nothing worse when you're psyched up for a stop. "I'm not 'appy" said John G as he delicately manouevred his expensive wheels back up the farm track across rubble and cattle grids. Kev then suggested a "short detour" to the Peak View Tea Rooms via Jenkins Chapel (25%+ gradient), down the other side, and up the Goyt Valley. More grunting, gear changing and zig zagging but we all made it and the views were stunning. We felt we deserved a nice long cafe stop and then returned swiftly, aided by the beans and a tailwind. Vital statistics: 69 miles, av 14.7mph (not bad considering the hills), max speed 41 mph (down from the cafe to Bottom of the Oven: my front wheel developed a wobble in the wind which was a bit scary) and we were riding for 4 hrs 37 mins. And now the dog needs walking, the family wants feeding and all I want to do is sleep.

Posted by Eleanor.

Two Groups, One Destination....

2009-08-31T07:36:00.005+01:00

30 August 2009

Lots of riders turned up for this one. I don't know if it was due to Nicks PR recently but we had quite a few new riders, plus returnees. With the racing season drawing to a close as well, Alan Kemp, fresh from his success at the LVRCC Nationals, was also there. What a remarkable season he has had!! Two groups left Hartford, but the destination was the same, Two Mills. The pace was brisk and the banter good. Not much else to report on the way out apart from the hazard patches of newly surfaced roads around the Christleton area created. Both groups arrived at Two Mills at the same time - almost, and we were joined by even more Weavers. The return journey proved slightly more eventful on the Chester Cycleway. Alan's cassette came loose and jammed in the rear forks, Max had a seatpost failure which gave us the opportunity to divert to the Bike Factory. Sad to report they could not help out, at which point Max went off to see if he could find a man who could. Finally, Graham had an altercation with a Tesco carrier bag which decided it was going to wrap itself around his rear cassette. Then it was back through Delamere culminating with the dash for the Hatchmere sign. A ride of approx 64 miles at a good pace. There is no ride planned for next week remember. It's the Cyclo Cross Time, and so helpers and riders required, and then its the Hill Climb on the 27.09 just to round the season off!! If any of you fancy a go at more riding on knobbly tyres, check out the BogBlog for up and coming events.....

Time travel, opiates and fit gits...

2009-08-23T15:28:00.004+01:00

Only 15 or so riders today. We all stayed together till Waverton, then one group set off for the ice cream farm and another rode to Holt Garden Centre, into a strong headwind. The cafe conversation was entertaining, as is to be expected when Jed and John are sitting on the same table. We had just covered time travel and opiates, (with Jed revealing a disquieting expertise on the latter), when Dave Astles arrived covered in cuts - he'd ridden to Holt on his own and on a quiet lane a car had driven up (slowly) alongside him and the passenger had wound his window down and gently shoved Dave in the back, pushing him into the bramble/hedge. Unfortunately Dave was so shocked he didn't get the number of the car. Where do these idiots come from?

We split into two groups on the way back - I ended up with Garry and Dave Astles for a direct return, which, encouraged by a tailwind, got a bit silly and fast - and even sillier and faster when Keith turned up and joined us. "That's all we bl**dy need" said Garry at this point "a fit git joining us". And he was proved right as Keith upped the ante and we managed to prove the point that was made at lunch, i.e. that time travel is possible, if you're in a big ring with a tailwind, and trying to keep up with Keith! Posted by Eleanor.

Results and racing news from Dave Astles...

2009-08-23T15:23:00.003+01:00

Alan Kemp won for the 18th time this season at Darley Moor on Sat 15th August,also riding was John Conboy, Conboy riding in the younger age cat and to his credit finished in the rapidly diminishing bunch, the strong gale force wind doing the damage.
Kemp took his race by the scruff of the neck and with just 3 other riders able to hold his wheel, took off: and this 4 strong group stayed away to sprint out the finish, Kemp taking the verdict easily.
The 12hr National championships took place on Sun 16th August on a course based around Whitchurch,70 riders started the West Cheshire event including W.V. rider Dave Fearon,a hard day to ride for 12hrs and Fearon's distance has yet to be confirmed but was estimated to be a very creditable 241mls finishing in 18th place overall. Defending champ Andy Wilkinson who in 1996 set a new record of 300mls,started last man off at 7-20am and with a fantastic ride set a new record of some 302mls ! This record was set in far from ideal weather conditions and will stand for some time I am sure.

Hot off the press today (Sunday 23rd August) - TLI race at Siddington, Nick Butterworth and John Conboy finished in the pack in their race. Kevan did well in his race - he got into a breakaway, but this split, with one group going off the front. Kev stayed in the residual bunch and won the uphill sprint to get 5th overall and 2nd in his age group.

GUARDIAN Cup - The Final Fling....

2009-08-15T16:59:00.003+01:00

And as the season draws to a close, the final event of the Guardian Cup took place on Wednesday night. Quite a large field assembled for the 10 mile "dash". A number of new riders were attracted to take part, as well as those keen to do well and in with a chance of winning. There was Dennis and Alison competing on their Tandem Trike as well as Gareth on his knobbly tyres. Never one to miss an opportunity, Craig was there with a car boot crammed full of club clothing. It was the "new" riders who came under pressure first on the start line . Do short sleeve skin suits really give you 2 mins over 10 miles??

And when all the riding was done and heart rates back to normal it was everyone back to the Crown for a pint and to hear the final "scores on the doors" It had been a memorable year, declared the Results Master. A year in which over 40 different riders had crossed the start line. Some never made it round the distance. We hope Martins recovery is going well, and some missed the second turn and ended up doing a "25" instead. Some would have liked to have rideen more but were victims of accidents that have cut their seasons short. Our commiserations go out to Andy Poole and Rich Munro, lets hope they have better luck next year. Ah yes, ther's always next year........

Winner on the night was Dave Fearon, who declared he had ridden what turned out to be one of his best times on an 82" fixed gear!!! It was a closely run competition, but it was Chris Cain just edged it and he was declared the Guardian Cup winner for 2009

A big thank you, and a bottle of red went to Ann Gregory, who counted us all out, and counted us back again for al her hard work and meticulous time keeping. Finally lets not forget the results master himself, Steve Thomas, for all his efforts on the laptop and making sure our points were totalled up, and numbers collected at the ned of the races!

Advice from Baz..

2009-08-11T20:10:00.003+01:00

From Claire..I asked Baz what he did when he was younger to get fit? He said " I used to cycle 100 miles up the Cheshire Cat to work, put in a 42 hour day then cycle home again with flat tyres because I couldn't afford any air, and all this on one fish supper a week"!

A ride with Kev and Lance...

2009-08-11T19:28:00.007+01:00

Here we are at the Tour along with our mate Lance! We had a great week in the Alps, staying in a chalet just above Bourg St. Maurice, owned by Sam and Andy - http://www.vanillaski.com/Alpine_etape/ - if anyone's interested in staying there, we'd thoroughly recommend it. Sam used to cook for the British Cycling team so the food was fantastic and Andy is a great guide, and took us on some amazing routes, which included the Col d'Iseran and the Col de St. Petit Bernard amongst others. We watched the Tour from the top of the latter, at a great vantage point above a series of switchbacks where we watched several small groups coming up over a twenty minute period, so we got a really good look at the riders. We watched the depart the next day and Kevan jumped over the barriers to join the press pack - and got really good pics of Lance and Alberto. Rob Jones and Sue drove all the way from Dijon (5 hrs!) to watch the end of the race in Bourg, and arrived 5 minutes before the first rider came through - they then stayed overnight with us, watched the depart the next morning and then Rob went off to ride Alpe d'Huez on the way back, thus fulfilling a lifetime ambition...

Some racing results from Dave Astles...

2009-08-09T21:59:00.002+01:00

Thanks to Dave for the following report on various events - well done Carl, Dave and Mark, as well as all our TT riders!

Former W.V. rider Carl Ruebotham,won the Welsh national 100ml time trial championships on Sun, in a stunning time of 3hrs-44mins-23secs,not sure if this is a personal best. The course was hilly and the weather humid: if it had been windy it would have been a lot slower. Ruebotham's time today has moved him from 4th in the Best all rounder competition to 3rd and should move his team into 1st place so a very well done from all at W.V. we wish him well.
Two veteran road men, Mark Thompson and Dave Astles both went to Gent, Belgium to ride the World age related road race championships, these champs are raced on 10yrs age band and are much sought after. Both riders rode 2 events as prep for the Sun worlds. A very promising start for both riders at Beveran on Friday saw both in good form. From 70 starters, Thompson finished 10th and Astles 11th at half a length.
Sat both started the hilly crit at Aspelara. Astles felt his efforts from Friday and climbed off leaving Thompson to continue and finish in a very creditable 17th place.
The temperatures had been in the high 20s, sunny and warm, but Sunday brought a big change in the weather: both riders were aghast at the heavy rain, which was at the start and continued for 4hrs, Astles was out of contention as early as the 3rd corner on the 1st lap when a pile up of riders went down and the bunch was split in 2. Thompson was lucky and was in the lead group of some 40 riders, Astles and the rest of the others set about catching them but were unable and to Astles' credit kept going and won the bunch sprint for 54th place.Thompson was active in the lead group and finished strongly in 26th place, in the still pouring rain. The rain did eventually stop for the 40yrs-49yrs and the sun came back out, to everyone's relief. On the way back to the ferry at Dunkirk both riders started the Destelburgan crit and again Thompson finished in the top 20 in 17th place, whilst Astles finished in the main bunch. 4 races in 5 days plus the travelling left both riders very tired but after a few days' rest should see both riding at Seighford on Tuesday night.
The Guardian cup leader has changed hands after Wednesday's result with new comer Nigel Woodacre taking the lead from Mark Chapman. Fastest on the night was Dave Fearon with a fast time of 23mins-41secs,pb followed by Matt Hornby 24mins-29secs,with 15 riders started and 9 p.b.recorded the series is proving just as popular as ever.

Dagfields Danger Ride

2009-08-09T15:59:00.002+01:00

The long run to Dagfields was beset by a number of "unplanned incidents" which added spice to and otherwise ordinary Sunday run. The group of 18 set off in glorious weather which managed to last all day which made a pleasant change as we are so often caught in showers at some point in the day.
Unplanned incident 1. Puncture at the bottom of Cinder Hill in Whitegate Village. The clever ones took the opportunity to cruise slowly up to the top of the hill thereby avoiding the first "rush of blood" typical of all runs which go out this way.
Unplanned incident 2. The whole group was stopped by a tractor reversing into a field and upon setting off Garry Brown became Garry Down when he caught Chris Latters wheel at about 5 mph whilst setting off. Not the sort of thing you would expect from an experienced four man time trial teamster! He was a bit bruised but picked himself up and rode on. Well done Garry.
Unplanned incident 3. Chris Lamb tried to cut inside "man mountain" Ewart Howkins, not a good idea. Remarkably Chris managed to bring Ewart down along with himself and the two ended up chewing hawthorn hedge and nettles on the ground. Apart from grazed nuckles and a few puncture wounds they both seemed to be OK and once the siamese bike had been seperatd they rode on seemingly unaffected.

All this before we had even reached the cafe. Of course there were the usual close encounters with lorrys, cars and tractors along the way as well.

Lunch was taken al fresco and then we returned via Haslingdon and Middlewich back home.

A Good ride with just a few casualties all walking at the end of the day, result!

Thanks to Ian for leading (most) of the route.

Regards

Richard

London to Edinburgh and back - Audax madness

2009-08-08T22:53:00.003+01:00

Read on to find out about Audax Derek's adventures - an amazing feat by any standards - Rebecca Romero eat your heart out!

There And Back To See How Far It Is

Some thoughts on my ride from London to Edinburgh and back.
Firstly the registration on Saturday was a little worrying at 3 hours- this took longer than the drive to the start and provided my bald head with more sun than it would see at anytime on the ride. If this was to be repeated at each check point it would have been a bit of a drain on time. However, things as they say got better.
On Saturday night I failed to get to sleep before the ubiquitous YHA snorer and so only managed about 4 hours kip. Got away to an 8.30 start on Sunday and as the euphoria kicked in the pace was brisk. By about 10 had hitched up with Ferdinand from Vermont and that was the way it stayed until the end. I am sure that company was the reason we survived.
En route met a local audax rider wearing rubber gloves at Thorne. Not sure if he was doing the washing up or had volunteered to apply chamois cream !!! A fine example of the many sterling volunteers that kept us fed watered and woke us when needed. After a rather spicy goulash continued taking advantage of the wind ( nature’s not bean power) and driven by the fact that my bag drop was 50k further than intended, rode to Coxwold 411k and had ½ kip. Suitably refreshed rode to my bag at Middleton Tyas 463k ate and slept for 3hours.Then on again.
The leg from Barnard Castle to Alston provided the first taste of an unhelpful breeze and was the start of the lumpy bits. Many of you know how I climb!! Ploughed on through Alston and through to Eskdalemuir 633k. The fire here proved too much of a temptation and another ½ was spent inspecting eyelids. Then it was the run into Edinburgh. Arriving in just under 48 hours and spurred on by porridge and a wee dram dished out at the Traquair control crew.
Arrived Edinburgh in just under 48 hours as planned, average ride speed turned out to be Edinburgh 26Kph . This left 67 hours to get back. Ferdinand’s wife was at Edinburgh as a volunteer, got our food quickly then went for a 3hour kip in a nearby church. This proved to be a little mistake as the weather turned. The climb out of Dalkeith was into the once helpful wind and boy did it blow. On the run over to Innerleithen we were pedalling downhill whilst those still going north sat up, spread their arms and free wheeled up! It was round about here my chain started to slip on the top 3/4 rings on the rear block but I had sufficient low gears to keep going. Only 500k of irritating shifting.
Later Tuesday the rain then arrived. It was bouncing off the road. So we were battering against a gale force wind in the rain, what joy!! My aim was to get back to Barnard Castle for a decent rest but after a feed in Eskdalemuir it was apparent that would be too far and Alston became the target. Those hilly miles in the dark, battling against the wind were the hardest I’ve done. The control at Alston was a welcome sight at 1.30 am but it was full to overflowing. The stalwart helpers were dealing almost hypothermic riders, every space that could be used for sleeping was.
Another 2 hour kip and then over Yad Moss where the rain did ease slightly but the wind refused to give up. Grabbed lots of food at Middleton Tyas and more sleep at Coxwold on the return. Onward to Thorne and the rubber glove man, who was dishing out some banter. Even said we were looking in good shape- must be those rose tinted specs he wears. Pork casserole was superb- ate slept and ate again before leaving. From there on it was the point at which the ride was in the bag but the ks clicked by slowly, especially any with a gradient, and the route saved one beast just before the finish. Arrived back 11.20pm Thursday- 6 hours to spare, had beer, showered and was the unbiquitous snorer!!!
Return ave 18kph. Unlike Claire my dress size went up!! I put on weight, not wishing to bonk, I ate at every opportunity.

Final time 110 hours 40 mins - 6 hours to spare on time limit total distance 1428Km

If you wish to join the wacky world of audax riding you may find the following training tips useful.
1. Train on rollers going up hill
2. Have someone turn a hose on you
3. Adopt the following mind set Eat-apply cream- cycle- eat -sleep-eat- apply cream- cycle and repeat as often as necessary whilst chanting the mantra "Every k above 12kph is 5 mins off the bike at a control"

Will I do another? I might consider PBP 2011

Derek

Thank you from Alan Silver...

2009-08-05T19:19:00.001+01:00

Hello All,
Just to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who turned out for the Charity Ride yesturday(23).The feeling I got was it went well and all who attended enjoyed it,well done to Craig winning the King of the Mountains event,Graham for the 1st Sprint and Dave Daynes for the 2nd Sprint appreciated the prize money being put back into the sponsor pot. Believe it or not Guide Dogs members collected £157 on the day at The Ice-Cream Farm plus my sponsorship from you all should take us up to £350> when all other monies are gathered. There should be the group photo in the Guardian & Chronicle shortly so once again THANK YOU.

Chapeaux Claire!..

2009-08-05T19:17:00.003+01:00

Here's Claire's account of her successful London to Paris ride - well done girl!

I made it to Paris!! It turned out to be quite an adventure! You can read the whole story on my just-giving page http://www.justgiving.com/claireobrien2. I will send you some piccies later today! I had plenty of time as I pedalled the miles, to think of the Weaver Valley Wrinklies and all the good times! I am so looking forward to getting back to our Wednesday runs in September! By the time I got to Paris, I had dropped a dress size - in 4 days! Unfortunately, by the time you next see me, I will probably have put it all on again! It was a great feeling riding into Paris with 605 other cyclists, and having a swig from a bottle of Champagne under the Eiffel Tower with my family! I can say that 'I was there' when Bradley Wiggins won 4th in the GC, and when Mark Cavendish powered his way to a 6th sprint win on the Champs-Elysees! After Paris, we went for a week to Deauville where I rode along the promenade on Pashley's with the kids! Ok, they were rusty ole push-bikes, but never let the truth get in the way of a good story! Although the bikes were all stuck in one gear, the family rode the hilly 40k to Honfleur and back! I was very proud of 8 year old Richard who has never ridden on a road before! On Sunday, I am at the velodrome to try to get my accreditation! I have never tried riding behind a derny before, so that should be fun!

An ode to Danny McAskill

2009-08-05T19:16:00.002+01:00

Thanks to Claire for this ditty...

Ode to Danny MacAskill
- if you haven't heard of him have a look at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z19zFlPah-o

You can ride your bike with no handlebars.
You can do bunny hops that leap four feet in the sky.
You can sail down a steep flight of concrete steps
Or just jump over them instead.

You can balance precariously on metal spikes
And never get impaled or skewered.
You can do wheelies that last forever,
Then disappear over the street furniture.

I can do none of those things.
My feet are firmly planted on the clodded earth.
But I have you to enthral me,
And you can ride your bike with no handlebars.

Claire O’Brien

Handlebars and Seatposts..

2009-07-26T09:33:00.002+01:00

The Saturday ride of the 25th July set off from the Three Greyhounds in Glorious sunshine heading for Holmes Chapel en route for Mow Cop, Knypersley Reservoir, and The Cloud. In what turned out to be a memorable ride, not for "killer" climbs, only 765m in 42 miles, or for the great views from the top of Mow Cop, more for the lessons to be learnt from two mechanicals. With one climb and one decent out of the way and on the way to Knypersley reservoir we encountered our first "mechanical". Note 1:- Make regular checks of handlebar clamping screws if using carbon wrapped aluminium bars!!!!
With Bars firmly secured, we set off to complete the remainder of the ride including 11's at Hollands Garden Centre. With Live Tour coverage starting at 1:00pm we were not wanting to hang around. Heading back through the lanes around Goostry and Lach Dennis we encountered the second "mechanical". Note 2:- Beware of buying £170 carbon seat posts off Ebay for £30!! It could be a painful experience. However, it did provide for some useful muscle building exercise for the forthcoming hill climb events. Returning to the seated position was no longer an option.. All in all a great loop to do if you only want to be out for a few hours.

A message from Claire...

2009-07-15T09:32:00.002+01:00

Claire's sent this message through for the blog...I know we'd all like to wish her well, I'm sure those miles with the Wrinklies will stand her in good stead!

Pls can you thank everyone on the Wednesday run for training me up for my L2P bike ride? Without their help, I would not have got as fit, learned new bike skills, and seen the miles pass by so easily and cheerfully! The Wrinklies runs have just got better and better! Secondly, could you please mention my just-giving page http://www.justgiving.com/claireobrien2 ? I have a target of raising £2000 for Leukaemia Research!

Peak View Tea Rooms

2009-07-13T00:07:00.000+01:00

A wonderful ride - lots made it to Macclesfield and then nine of us made it to the cafe - Graham was the run leader, then Lou, Ewart (who said he had swine flu and I wasn't sure whether to believe him), Kevin, Kevan and I (all with sore legs after yesterday's mountain biking), Gareth, Audax Derek and Craig. We were led by Graham on a great route through Pott Shrigley, up three significant climbs: up past the brickworks, down to Kettleshulme, up past Windgather Rocks and over to the car park below Shining Tor, down to the Goyt Reservoir, up to Derbyshire Gate, up again to the Cat and Fiddle, and onto Peak View Tea Rooms for a very welcome stop. The weather held and we somehow managed to avoid any rain, despite occasional black brooding clouds appearing from nowhere. Back home via Macc Forest and Gawsworth, with Gareth and Kevan taking it in turns to set a brisk 20mph+ pace which meant the rest of us were singled out and conversation-less. I did 68 miles at an average speed of 16.4 mph, not bad considering the hills. Thanks to Graham for a great ride.

When I'm 64...When I get older, losing my hair, will I still be riding my bike as fast as these fellas?

2009-07-01T17:20:00.009+01:00

A perfect hot day and 13 of us set off to the Lock Cafe at Whitchurch. Nine of us got there. We worked out that excluding me and Jed (we're the relative youngsters) the average age was 64. Amazing. The normal quality of banter was enhanced by Richard Heywood's return to the fold. Richard, removing hair is depilating not dilapidating, I know because I've just looked it up in the dictionary. And you're right, those nuns are scary. On the way back Jed undermined the normal work ethic of a WVCC clubrun by suggesting not only a second stop at Marbury for a cold beer (see above); but also a third stop for an ice cream at the Venetian cafe - I was the only one to agree to this last stop as the others clearly felt, with some justification, that if they stopped once more they wouldn't be able to get going again. A hot day, a brisk ride, and Cheshire (and Shropshire, which we rode through too) looked truly beautiful. Once again, commiserations to you lot in offices. I'll be joining you soon, so I intend to make the most of my last few weeks of freedom! ...posted by Eleanor.

Two reports - a long wet ride and a less long sunny ride...

2009-06-28T21:23:00.004+01:00

Thanks to Kevin and Claire for reports on today's rides...it's interesting to note the different weather conditions on each ride, both on the same day. The pics below are views to illustrate Kevin's ride.

From Kevin...
With the promise of glorious views, sunshine, and the first climb of the day after 3 miles, five of us set off from the Derwen Centre for a ride around the Tanat Valley and Lake Vyrnwy, Paul, Craig (surprisingly fresh from his exploits in the 4up), Gareth, Dave S, and Kevin C. It was to be a ride of around 75miles, the majority of which was completed in rain/drizzle and with capes on, but the air temp was warm, and when the sun actually managed to break through it was very warm.
The Puncture Gods were not smiling on us again They obviously have a problem with those of us who believe Race Pro tyres are the best, but the delay was only short and we were soon back on the road.
A large portion of the ride was on the Oswestry Paragon Hilly 17 TT course, and with in excess of over 1500 feet of climbing, and descending, there were a few tricky moments for us all.
The last major climb of the day the day at the head of the Tanat valley, gave Dave S the opportunity to test himself before he leaves these shores to tackle the Etape, and we wish him well for that. The descent, and numerous cattle grids providing added spice, and ride along the Lake side road to the cafe stop was brisk.
An excellent ride, around roads not normally tackled on a Sunday, and thanks to Paul for keeping us going in the right direction, again!!

And now from Claire..
Another beautiful, sunny day was enjoyed by 17/18 club riders who went as one group to Two Mills. My presence ensured that the pace was fairly relaxed, and Elaine provided some female company! Any hangovers from the night before were soon dispersed with the morning mist, and Eureka Cafe was packed with riders enjoying the sunshine who had come from Manchester and Macclesfield, as well as a big contingent of Seamons Club members from Altrincham. Lets hope that the rest of the summer is full of golden days like this!

The devil takes the hindmost...an epic tale of WVCC drama at the Warrington 4Up

2009-06-26T15:09:00.009+01:00

Two caption competitions on the go here -
1. For the story. The caption above is Craig's. John Conboy has suggested "you may feel a little prick" but I've decided that this fails the decency filter!
2. For the picture below. If you ask me, Dave looks like he's enjoying Craig's attention rather too much...
Anyway an energy bar from me to the best suggestion...

This is the epic story of our WVCC 4up team, told first by Craig, and then a fuller report from Richard Munro.

First Craig:
It was devil take the hindmost at Warrington RC 25 mile 4-up TT last night. Dave McKay, Nick Butterworth, Richard Munro and myself were competing for the club. Down to 3 on the last lap along Seven Sisters Lane, after Rich was tailed off, first Nick then Dave punctured leaving just yours truly to record a time of just under 57.30. But of course with the time taken on the third rider to cross the line (-Nick who repaired his puncture in double-quick time) our official time was just over 1hr 4 mins. Special mention goes to Dave for his Herculean turns on the front but if cycling is a test of both legs and bike then of course I “won”. A long 56 was on the cards was our considered consensus. “We could have been contenders.”

And now from Richard:
The official results when they are published on the CTT web site will show WVCC recording a time of 1hr 4 min and coming in second last. However, but for some very bad luck the team would have made a long 56 or short 57 (for the uniniated a long 56 would be over 56'30" and a short 57 would be between 57' and 57'29"). I was initially asked to be the first reserve, but when Kevan said that he didn't really want to do it I jumped at the chance to be in the team along with Nick Butterworth, Dave McKay and Craig Lee. Nick organised it and asked the team to aim for a 57, which sounded ambitious to me but would have been achieved but for the bad luck. We set off very fast and, although I have been improving I knew straight away that I was going to struggle to keep up. I knew that Dave was very good from the times he has achieved, but once you ride with him you soon realise just how stong he is. I kept in the group for the first 6 miles or so, but then I started to miss my turns on the front and allowed small gaps to open at the back. I managed to get back on again briefly and go to the front again for a couple of short stints, but half way down the A50 I was dropped. It was very tempting as we passed the entrance to turn back into the HQ, but I decided that I might as well complete the course as it would be good training if nothing else. Turning into the dreaded Twemlow Lane with a direct head wind was not good for morale, but once I reached the end of that I perked up a bit and realised that I could still make a reasonable solo time. The stretch from Chelford to Ollerton was fast and turning into Seven Sisters Lane I felt quite good. Half way down Seven Sisters I saw a WVCC jersey furiously pumping a tyre up. I saw it was Nick and I offered him my bike to complete the course, but he told me to ride on and try and get a time. I knew then that my time would be important as I was going to be the third rider home and that is the time that goes against the team. I gave it all I had from that point and got to the finish in just over 1hr 2mins, which was a pb for me on that course. On reaching the finish I then learned that Dave had also punctured and had been picked up in the car by Garry Brown and so didn't have a time at all. The team time was then resting on Nick, who having repaired his puncture was third man over the line. Craig did a fantastic ride, recording about 57'20" which was a pb and was first man home, but, unfortunately it didn't get onto the official record. I think that we should enter more than 1 team next year and I think I would be better in the B team. With either Dave Fearon or Rob Kilby in the A team and a bit better luck WVCC will be up there with the other top clubs.

A minimalist post

2009-06-24T15:18:00.002+01:00

About 12 of us rode to Audlem. A perfect day: sunny and warm, a cloudless sky, good company, brisk riding. Our sympathies went to all those of you out there who were stuck in an office!

Oulton Park 3

2009-06-23T23:03:00.002+01:00

This will be hard as I was a bit too busy chatting to take in much of what went on, (apologies) but here goes...lots of WVCC riders in the action...

It was a warm night with a thunderstorm threatening - we had a few drops of rain as we started but it never developed into anything, thankfully...

1. Race 1 was 50s to 60s - Graham, Derek and Gary Brown were riding in this one, and Alan and Matt raced for the first time and both did really well. Graham was first WVCC rider in.

2. Race 2 was 60s and over - I rode this one (I get an age handicap as a female, one occasion when I'm only too happy not to insist on gender equality!). It was much harder this week because the bunch was smaller - we spent most of the time singled out behind Alan! Alan tried several breaks which got closed down but he needn't have bothered because he won the sprint with apparent ease. I was pleased to stay with the pace and finished with the bunch (well actually I turned back on the final straight to see to a bloke who'd had a nasty crash - bit pointless really as the ambulance was there before me).

3. Race 3 was under 40s - Dave seemed to be keeping up nicely. Gareth came in first WVCC rider in the sprint. Craig and Chris Cain (first race this year) were also both in the reckoning.

4. Race 4 was 40s to 50s - Kevan rode this one because he arrived too late for his own race and finished first WVCC rider in the sprint and was in the first ten. Richard Munro, John Conboy and Steve Thomas did well too. Nick crashed on the last lap but seemed to come out of it OK - only a graze on his elbow - not sure what happened.

If I've forgotten anyone, apologies. Once again lots of WVCC folk in the ranks of organisers and supporters. Eleanor.

A touch of romance...

2009-06-21T14:21:00.003+01:00

Romance was in the air this week. The long group did a fabulous ride direct out to Algreave, up the Dunbars. Reaching the cafe were Kevan, Andy, Dennis, Kevin, Craig, and two new riders. This is where Romance Number One comes in - our two new riders, Sian and Dan, have just come back from their (mountain-biking!) honeymoon, having got married two weeks ago! Some of you might remember Sian from a couple of years ago from the track - she's Faith Murray's daughter: I know many club members remember Faith from her riding days. Anyway Sian and Dan are v. strong, and with a few more clubruns in their legs there'll be no stopping them - Sian used to be a rower, so she has Rebecca Romero as a role model. As for Romance Number Two - as we rode up to Allgreave, Dennis pointed over to the Matterhorn-like peak of Shutlingshoe, and told me that he'd proposed to his wife Marie up there. What a great place to propose - it's a beautiful spot with a fantastic view - I'm not surprised Marie said yes! We rode back up and over Macc. Forest. We got back before 2 p.m. having ridden 60 miles, average speed 17 mph which isn't bad considering the hills we climbed. Andy (recovering well from his accident) and Kevan took it in turns to set a relentless pace on the way back (into the wind) and we were singled-out and conversation-less all the way from Gawsworth.

p.s. best wishes to Alison Hornby if she's reading this, for a speedy recovery from her broken leg

p.p.s. does anyone know why the Dunbars is called the Dunbars? There's no mention of the name on the OS map so I'm intrigued.

A wet Wednesday...

2009-06-20T23:08:00.001+01:00

Thanks to Claire for this report...

This Wednesday the rain fell and continued to fall. Only 8 intrepid riders ventured forth, and all agreed that they had pressing business and could only make a short run! I wonder why? Only Dennis had a cast iron excuse ( no pun intended) as he had to take his daughter Alison to hospital. You will be sorry to hear I am sure, that she has broken her leg in a mountain biking accident. Get well soon, Alison! On the other hand, Malcolm who has been recovering from a broken collar bone, came out for his first club run since his accident, and looked as if he had lost none of his fitness at all! Welcome back, Malcolm - we have missed you! We went to Beeston Ice Cream Farm, which has been newly extended and refurbished. The varnish was still wet on the wooden fixtures and fittings! It all looked very nice, with proper cycle stands outside and very efficient and helpful service service. I got a big teapot to myself, so I'm giving it a 10! Going home, we were all soggy and cold. A mucky day, but I'm glad to have gone out if only to catch up with friends!'

Oulton Park 2

2009-06-17T09:00:00.003+01:00

Another phenomenal turn out. This week we were split into three races, with the "oldies" going first. Dave Astles, Kevan and Graham all made their presence known at the front of the pack on various occasions but missed the decisive break of four riders which got away with about 4 laps to go and stayed away: they were v. well organised. Gary and I stayed in the bunch, wisely conserving our energy for the final sprint. Steve Thomas was out for his first race of the summer but couldn't contest the placings, as technically he should have been in the younger race. I'm not sure how we all did but I know that Graham was the first WVCC rider home, beating Kevan by a few centimetres: Kevan doesn't set out to be Graham's lead out man but seems to fulfil the role admirably!

The second race was split into two because of numbers, with the over 40s setting off first. It was good to see Derek racing for the first time. Nick joined an excellent break away who through and off'd v. effectively: they managed to catch the under 40s bunch, at which point however they were effectively neutralised as they got mixed up in this bunch. Dave McKay tried a big effort at the start of the last lap but he got swallowed up by what was now an enormous pack. Nick, despite his 12 hours of mountain biking at the weekend and his efforts in the break, somehow still managed to be first WVCC rider home, with Dave McK, Dave Swindells, Craig, Chas, Richard Munro, John Conboy and Derek all coming in behind them: sorry I didn't clock in what order, and sorry if I've missed anyone out!

As always there was lots of WVCC involvement in the organisation of the race; and within the ranks of supporters, with the junior Conboys and little Melissa shouting their encouragement from the stands.

Ruthin in the sunshine...

2009-06-15T21:26:00.002+01:00

Thanks to Kevin Campbell for this report on Sunday's club run - I was otherwise engaged (see Bogblog for details!)

On what proved to be one of the nicest days of the summer so far, a large group of over 20 gathered at the club house. It was especially good to see Andy P making a return from injury, and hopefully he will back to full fitness very soon, and also Dave F who was able to make a full day of it for the first time in a while.
With the short run going to Holt, and the long one switched to Ruthin (Llangollen was going to be packed, and cafe selection limited), we all set off together at a brisk pace. I must admit, when we arrived at Holt and the group split I was surprised to find that there was only four of us who carried on to Ruthin, Paul (leader), Dave, Derek and me. The ride to Ruthin turned out to be a gem. We crisscrossed the usual route via Wrexham, Llandegla, lots of other hilly places in between, and finally entering Ruthin by descending the Bwlch. The choice when we got to Ruthin was “new” or “old”. Another good call was made, because the “old” cafe knocked the socks of the “new” one for both speed and choice. It was also full of other cyclists.
The journey home was just as varied as the trip out. Avoiding the climb back up the Bwlch in favour of the back lanes, and by the time we had climbed out of the valley (only 3.8 miles, but it felt a lot more) the views were fantastic, and I don’t recall seeing any traffic al all. At one point Dave pointed out the Ponderosa in the distance. The final climb of the day was up the Griffin, and then via Holt, Farndon, Willington, and Hatchmere to Hartford.
Well done to Paul for navigating without any GPS and proving that when the sun shines anything is possible.

A "pub stop"

2009-06-10T20:42:00.003+01:00

Only six of us out today, probably because of the vile weather forecast - as it happened it rained on the way out to Hatchmere, but from there on it was dry and quite pleasant. As most people couldn't be out for long Jed suggested a pub stop: a fairly radical concept in clubrun culture! We headed out through Delamere Forest, down to Helsby and down the A56 out towards Chester, at which stage Paul S and I had to head back, so I'll leave someone else to report on the rest of the run and the relative advantages of pub stops v. cafe stops. On the way back Paul and I passed Martin W. and Gary going in the opposite direction so I don't know if they caught the main group.
Eleanor.

And Claire tells the rest of the story...
'When we parted company at Mickle Trafford, there were only four riders left! (Was it something I said?) The other three galloped up the hill to chat to (probably) Martin and then waited for me. The weather improved, and instead of heading for Chester as intended, we were persuaded by Jed to venture as far as Connah's Quay. There we bravely entered a pub with doors hanging off, and an old tar in the corner. I thought that I'd entered the set of 'Pirates of the Caribbean' or something. They didn't do food anymore (not since 1950), so we were directed to a modern pub up the hill, with the best toilets so far (10), but slow service. We guiltily crept into this smart establishment, and hoped no 'hard man' cyclists of the Weaver would see us there. We had a small beer before going down the river in blazing sunshine to Chester. Lou showed us the very bollard where he had once come off, while looking up the Chester Walls for climbing holds. From our pub conversation, it appeared unfortunately that crashing while not looking where he was going, might be a bit of a theme with Lou! I was very impressed, since my eyes are firmly glued to the wheel in front at all times! We took the interesting canal route as far as Christleton, with short, sharp, cobbled and tiled climbs under the bridges up to the locks. If there weren't so many pedestrians, it would have been fun to race up them! Then time constraints forced us reluctantly leave the canal, to head through picturesque Christleton towards Ashton and home. I was an hour late home to pick the kids up, but I would not have missed such an enjoyable run, with such entertaining company, for anything!'

Oulton Park

2009-06-09T22:39:00.003+01:00

What a turn out! Both races must have had over 60 riders. And WVCC provided a good proportion of them. The first race featured Alan Kemp, Graham Gregory, Dave Astles, Garry Brown, Les Charnley, Mark Thompson, Kevan and me. The pace was brisk, the tarmac was smooth. Alan, Kevan, Graham and Dave all got involved in the odd attempt to create a break but were quickly chased down. On the last lap, just before the finishing straight, the pack inexplicably sat up (probably marking Alan) and I nipped round the inside and attempted a futile but glorious sprint off the front, which didn't last long but was very enjoyable! I haven't the faintest how everyone fared other than Alan who came second and Graham who just beat Kevan. Garry clocked an average of 25 mph.

The second race was even brisker (their fastest lap was about 5.45 apparently compared to ours at about 6.15) and featured Nick B, Chas, Richard M, two Daves, Craig and Gareth (who has finally given into everyone's nagging that he should race) and a welcome return from our own Lakeland hero Garry (fresh from his Fred Whitton achievement). This race looked very tough from where I was standing, with constant attempts at breaks being chased down, several riders dropped off the back, and an incident where two riders fell, having touched wheels. Anyway Gareth proved that we've all been right in nagging him by (I think) being first WVCC rider home.

Once again WVCC proved their worth in not only fielding lots of riders but also providing the core of the organising team, with Martin W, Alan and Matt Silver, Ann Gregory, Paul Lawson and Steve Thomas all involved, and plenty more providing support from the sidelines, including the most junior member of the club, 3 month old Melissa Lee - come on Craig, where's her WVCC shirt, not like you to miss a new market!

Apologies to anyone who I've missed, it's difficult to keep track of this cast of thousands!
Eleanor.

John Boote Memorial Senior Road Race

2009-06-07T15:15:00.003+01:00

Well done to Graham and Ann for the impeccable organisation - everything seemed to go very smoothly. It's amazing to see how everyone does their bit - a real team effort - there must have been at least 30ish WVCC members involved, in various capacities. Steve Thomas's role as motorbike outrider looks the most fun though!

WVCC were well represented in the race, too, with Dave McKay, Nick B, Craig and Kevan all competing. I managed to see most of the action from my vantage point driving the First Aid car at the rear of the race, and we could listen into race radio - where they announce which riders have got away and give time checks on breaks. A breakaway formed early on and gained about 30 seconds, a gap which fluctuated a bit for a few laps - then a second group formed and did really well, getting to within 15 or 20 seconds of the first group - creating in turn a big gap on the main bunch, so the gap between the second group and the bunch got to be unbridgeable. One rider, Graeme Norman (from New Brighton Cycling Club) managed to get across from group 2 to group 1 - which must have been a big effort - and then still had enough energy to ride off the front of group 1 on the last lap to win the race, without having to contest a sprint on Acton Cliff.

As for our blokes, Dave and Nick did brilliantly to stay in the main bunch - I'm not sure how they did on the final hill. In the meantime Craig and Kevan had done really well to hang on, but unfortunately - and cruelly - got spat out the back of the bunch just after the penultimate climb. Kevan said that he just lost concentration for a second, and what was a one metre gap quickly turned into something much larger, at which stage he just didn't have the legs to do anything about it.

I gather from our riders that the pace was really tough - they all looked bushed at the end -quite a few riders got dropped throughout the race, and there had been constant efforts throughout. Kev had an average of 24 mph on his clock at the end, and I'd clocked them going at 42mph on the stretch down the bypass. I would have expected Acton Cliff to be the killer, but Kevan said that hadn't been too bad - he said the worst stretch was the corner out of the Hazel Pear, when everyone put the hammer down.

Luckily the rain held off, and the riders, organisers, marshals and spectators were able to enjoy what was an excellent, safe and very competitive race.

A plea to anyone reading this, incidentally - I'm organising the autumn road race on October 11th, so please please can you keep the date free, to help with marshalling....or even better, to ride - we could do with a nice WVCC team of 8 or so riders, using some team tactics!
Eleanor.

Star struck at the track...

2009-06-05T15:32:00.005+01:00

And who did I meet this morning at the track? No less a person than Mark Cavendish, who was hanging around with his bike in full Columbia kit in reception. He recognised me immediately and told me how impressed he was with my recent form. I told him that my family and I are his biggest fans - and that we used to think flat stages were boring before he came on the scene. He said that yes, he could hear us shouting for him when he was sprinting. I said he made it all look really easy and he responded "believe me it's not". He looked wonderful in his yellow and white kit, almost as good (but not quite) as our own yellow and white Les Charnley. I was going to challenge him to a race on the track but decided not to as I didn't want to humiliate him. He was really nice, and was very tolerant and patient when I asked him for his autograph - I think he was going to ask me for mine but didn't: he probably didn't want to invade my privacy.
Eleanor.

TLI: WVCC success

2009-05-26T22:41:00.004+01:00

In the over 50s and over 60s race, Alan Kemp led a great breakaway of three off the front: they built an impressive lead of about a minute, but somehow the pack managed to whittle this down and eventually Alan and pals were swallowed up by the bunch...however despite all his hard work earlier on Alan still managed to win the sprint finish, to win the overall race and his age group. Kev was delighted to come fourth overall and second in his age group, and Graham and Dave Astles both did well too.

In the middle age group Nick also got involved in a breakaway, again of 3 riders, and they got a lead of about 30 seconds but Nick (paying the price for trying to keep up with Ross on the night-time mountain-bike ride at the weekend!) got dropped by the other two, and he ended up joining Chas in the bunch at the finish. As for the youngsters - from where I was standing it looked like a very well contested race and the pack split up with several riders off the front in ones and twos - Dave held on really well at what looked like a brisk pace, to finish in the bunch.

The rain held off, but it was quite breezy. Craig and I marshalled and I got cold despite wearing two coats and a pair of gloves! Eleanor.

Sunday 24th May: Dave Fearon's manhood is threatened...

2009-05-24T17:22:00.004+01:00

Well they say pictures speak louder than words so I'll let the pics do the talking!

Pic 1 - at Common Barn above Rainow, enjoying the sunshine and the views...12 of us made it

Pic 2 - at the top of the "2 arrows plus 1 arrow" hill above Langley Reservoir...

Pic 3 - Dave Fearon collapses having climbed the above-mentioned hill on his fixed 74" gear bike. Lou, having himself climbed the hill at breakneck speed, just manages to come to a stop within millimetres of causing a nasty accident...

Superman

2009-05-19T20:27:00.002+01:00

Claire O'Brien has sent in this wonderful poem. Thanks Claire, keep them coming...

Superman

Fingers flex in gloves prepare to fight,
pedals fusing feet to wheeled machine,
helmet arrows bike to deco flight,
no brakes or gears to intervene.

Like actors in the Globe once tread the boards,
track cyclists, performers in their own theatre,
hear the same roar of crowded hoards,
as charioteers in a Roman amphitheatre.

Or like dice which roll in a Monaco Casino,
as they wheel their game of tense roulette,
the time recorded on a neon chrono,
wooden banking shiny with their own sweat?

But this is no game of chance! Such synchronicity,
so hard to grow from boy to man.
Train to be master of his own destiny,
to seize the winning moment while he can.

The planets spin their mystical trajectories,
perpetual motion pre-ordained since time began,
and blood is racing through veins and arteries,
the circle of life revolves around the sun.

When Icarus spread his wings in heavenly flight,
the gods looked down and frowned at his audacity.
When Achilles sprung his heels in fright,
he was punished for his perspicacity.

So Graeme Obree, with athletic ingenuity,
used laws of science to forge his Pegasus.
A Galileo, he defied authority,
and stretched his arms to fly the Universe.

Sunday 17th May

2009-05-17T18:10:00.004+01:00

After a long absence I finally got out on a Sunday run. The weather was not bad as I left Bunbury and cycled to Hartford with Chris Latter and I thought the summer bike and shorts was the right choice. As usual these days there was a good turnout and the long run to Chirk had no leader so I volunteered to take the fast/long group.

We went out through Whitegate and met Jed, in what looked like a formula one car with no wheels at the cross roads. We pottered on towards Oulton Park and once the road started to go a bit downhill Jed came past us all like a formula one car with his little yellow pennant straining in the slipstream. It didn't last for long, at the next junction he bade us farewell just as I was about to take him up the hill by Knockerbrook. That would have sorted him out, he is OK on flat earth society rides!

We pressed on towards Beeston, with some pressing on more than necessary. I soon put a stop to this foolishness by letting the culprits take a few wrong turns, that soon slows them down when they have to start playing catchup.

On towards Tilston and the gathering clouds, always a bad sign when you can't see the Welsh hills, it means it is raining. If you can see the hills it means it is going to rain! Sure enough the heavens began to open, capes were donned and talk turned away from Chirk and more towards Holt! The roads soon became sodden much like us and we all voted to go to Holt instead as most people were getting pretty cold.
Fortunately we arrived before the lunchtime curfew for cyclists and were able to order food and drink to warm us up. While we sat troughing the weather improved and when we left the sun was shining, but it was still very cold in soaking wet kit.
Everyone voted with their wheels and we headed straight back via Tattenhall and Beeston. I made my usual farewells at Beeston along with Chris Latter and we headed home for a hot bath, (not together!).
Hope you all got home safely and thanks for your company.

Richard

Weds 13th May - a French Letter

2009-05-13T14:49:00.004+01:00

A welcome birthday boy return for Richard Heywood: the title of this blog is his idea as he reckoned the repartee today was so good (obscure I know but that's Richard for you!).

Gary's under 7s joke: a man goes into a bar with a newt on his shoulder, and asks for a pint for himself and half a pint for his friend Tiny. The barman asks why his friend is called Tiny and the man says "because he's my newt".

About 12 riders today, we struggled out from Hatchmere out to Gawsworth in a strong headwind, with Jed doing a remarkable job at the front - and various other people taking turns trying to stay with him whilst he engaged them in conversation and they grunted their replies. Lunch at Gawsworth Garden Centre (food 6/10, loos 5/10), erudite conversation on my table about wind v. water v. coal v. nuclear power (yes come on a WVCC ride for an education) and then home, for which the primary power was wind, of the tailwind variety: we made it back in about 20 minutes, mostly at >25 mph (I'm never knowingly undersold in the exaggeration department). A good ride out and the rain just about stayed away.
Eleanor.

TLI Lower Withington Tuesday 12th May - with video!

2009-05-12T23:18:00.004+01:00

Thanks to Jed for the video, at the bottom of this article!

After rain on week 1 and a diesel spillage on week 2 (we found out this was the result of an accident involving Alex Ferguson's grandchildren), the only hazard tonight was a low sun and a strong wind - but no complaints, it was a beautiful evening and our reward was that we had to do the full 6 laps.

Once again I'm a bit vague about the results but I gather Nick did v. well in his race, getting into a break and coming in 4th. Craig's race was v. fast and hard and got strung out - he wasn't sure where he or Dave came. Graham came 4th (I think) in his - I wasn't that far behind him but I don't know where exactly. Other WVCC riders were Dave Astles who put in a great effort on the front on the last lap, Mark Thomson whose wheel I stuck to on the last couple of laps, and Chas who said he got dropped after trying to stay with breaks. Alan Kemp appeared from nowhere in the second lap, having arrived late, only to join a break which stayed away. In support were John C, Kevan, Kevin, Jed and Andy Poole who is recuperating.

It's difficult to describe how exhilarating it is for a relative beginner like me to join a race - the pre-match nerves, apprehension at the line up, relief when the pace is OK and all out concentration when it picks up, the focus on staying on the right wheel and trying not to get told off by the old hands in the pack, the turns through-and-offing on the front, the feeling that you're flying in your big ring, the amazing tow you get when you're in the right place in the pack, the fast sprints out of the corners, the desperation when you're trying to help bridge a gap, the excitement of the final sprint - and then the elation of finishing! And then the best bit, a well deserved cup of tea and FANTASTIC home-made cake.
Eleanor.

Sunday 10th May to Two Mills

2009-05-10T16:28:00.003+01:00

From Gary's under 7s joke book: I rang NHS advice yesterday because the guy in the desk next to me at work had just come back from Mexico, and I was worried about swine flu - but all I got on the line was crackling. As for my colleague, he's come out in rashers.

For all this and more, come and join a WVCC clubrun! Today we all rode out together - in good weather - to Saighton, where we stood and watched the LVRC road race with Kevan, Graham, Dave and Richard M representing WVCC - they all seemed to be doing fine when we saw them and I hope they appreciated our noisy support. Then we split and I ended up with a small fast group, with John, Keith and then Craig leading us at a good pace through Holt and Chester and then up to Two Mills - not sure who won the cafe sprint. We rode back together initially and I made the mistake of getting on the front with Jed: the trouble with Jed is that he glides along chatting without any effort whilst I struggle to keep up with him, let alone maintain what is usually a challenging and off beat conversation! Anyway unfortunately I got dropped just before we started the race through Delamere, so I struggled to keep up the pace on my own, till a tall dark handsome stranger picked me up (so to speak). He was riding back to Newcastle but was nevertheless keeping up an impressive pace. We rode together back to Weaverham where we met Paul and Jan who were making their own way back - and so home (I should clarify, without the stranger!).

Wednesday 6th May to Chester

2009-05-09T19:16:00.001+01:00

Thanks to Claire for this post....

The day began overcast and windy. There was no chance to sit in the bunch and nap, as our route took us over some draggy slopes through Manley to Mickle Trafford. After that, the ride settled down to a brisk ( for me!) but chatty pace, as we rode two abreast down the long, straight, tarmac path to Shotton. There was a gusty side wind to add a little interest. Several of us had not ventured that way before, and a fresh, new route is always welcome. We then turned down to the waterway, carefully avoiding dogs, bollards, and some other obstacles designed to keep vehicles out, and bikes and pedestrians in. The pace increased a touch despite the headwind, as we enjoyed another long, flat, uninterrupted stretch of riverside path, until we reached Chester. ( I love junk miles!) At Chester, the path was found to be locked for the races, and we reluctantly had to join the Sealand road. It led us past the race-goers walking towards the racecourse in all their finery, many on their mobile phones to check the latest odds! The Police cheerfully halted the traffic to let us ride up the narrow street along the castle walls above the racecourse, past the law courts, and over to the cafe (next door to the Blue Moon Cafe) by the river where we stopped for lunch. By this time, the sun had come out, and we were able to prop up our bikes against the railings, take off our outer layer, and sit outside, enjoying the fast-flowing river and festive atmosphere. ( Cafe got '4' Eleanor, for the nice view, and copious quantities of tea. Toilets were average ). After admiring each other's wheels, we re-mounted and cycled past the Bike Factory and Specialized Shop, resisting the temptation to pop in, and instead turned right to Littleton. This took us down some picturesque country roads, such as Guy Lane, Ryecroft Lane, and Willington Road, well away from the traffic, with gentle undulations and interesting bends. Then the road curved upwards, and we started to climb towards Utkinton. We climbed the steep road to the left of Tirley Garth to Willington. The road bent upwards and twisted around corners for much longer than I expected! It was with a real sense of achievement that we got to the top, and with the adrenaline still pumping, we bowled along through Eaton, Little Budworth and home. Several regulars riders were absent, so only about 9 riders started out on what proved to be a very enjoyable and entertaining ride. Thank you Jed, for leading us on a route with something to please everyone!

TLI Tuesday 5th May

2009-05-06T22:22:00.003+01:00

Another wet night, this week's numero uno hazard was a diesel spillage covered by lots of orange sand, not something you'd choose to ride over when trying to keep up with a bunch riding at >25 mph round a bend, but luckily this week no-one crashed. Another good turnout for WVCC, Craig and Dave riding with the young 'uns, Nick and Chas with the under 50s and John Crystal, Kevan, Dave Astles, Graham Gregory and me doing the oldies' race. Richard Munro, feeling bruised and battered from last week, still turned up to marshal, along with Alan Kemp; Jed was there in support, and Martin was signing on.

Nothing much to report - Chas led out his race on the final straight but said he got overtaken in the final 200m, Kevan came 4th in his race, I finished safely in the bunch and I'm not sure about everyone else - post a comment if you can add to this! The organisers restricted us to 5 laps because of poor light, which was quite far enough for me. Our race was much faster than last week and the pack had its work cut out covering various (futile) attempts at breakaways. One lad turned up and rode in running shorts and trainers, he seemed to attract the wrath of a few other riders: whether this was because he wasn't wearing the right kit, or because he wasn't holding his line, I'm not sure!

Everyone signed a card for Andy and we were all given an update on how he is - which isn't great apparently, he's damaged his ribs badly and will be off work for a bit - hopefully Andy you will take some comfort at least from everyone's good wishes, we're all thinking of you!

TLI Crash Update

2009-05-04T22:22:00.001+01:00

Thanks to Richard Munro for this update on Tuesday night's crash...

As some of you are aware, Andy Poole and I were involved in a crash at the TLI race at Lower Withington last week. Andy and I took part in the under 50s race which, on a wet and dark evening, was cut down by the organisers from 5 to 4 laps, much to the relief of the riders at the start. It was so cold and wet that nobody had the chance to warm up before hand - it would have achieved the opposite. The race was fairly fast, with an average speed of 24.5 mph recorded on my computer and it was soon all over with Andy taking 3rd place in the A category and winning £5. After finishing the race we saw other WVCC members Jed Taylor and Dave Astles watching near the finish and we decided to stay and watch the finish of the over 50s. We took a position on the grass verge at the side of the road to the right and about 20m before the finish line. Fairly shortly, the main bunch including Graham and Kevan came through and we turned our heads towards the line to see who got the places. All of a sudden there was an almighty clatter from the left hand side of us and Andy and I went to the floor landing on top of our bikes. Immediately, Andy was shouting about the pain in his back and he remained on the ground. I managed to get on my feet and realised that we had been hit by a rider leaving the road as he sprinted towards the finish, probably contesting around 20th place. The ambulance had been following the race and arrived on the scene straight away, giving attention to both Andy and the rider who had crashed. I didn't need any treatment from them, although I knew that I had several cuts and bruises and my ribs were sore. Andy took the full impact of the crash at 32mph, according to the rider's computer, and came out of it the worst. I am not sure if I was hit by Andy or the rider coming through. Andy's injuries are the most serious. He went to Leighton after the crash where they diagnosed a fractured rib. He was then in severe pain and went to his doctor on Friday who insisted on an x-ray and blood tests. The x-ray showed 2 cracked ribs and he has been given stronger pain killers. It is likely to take several weeks before it heels and will set his racing season back this year, which is sad as he has put in a lot of training over the winter and had been riding well as shown with his 3rd place. My injuries turned out to be a bit worse that I initially thought as well. I had decided to do more races and time trials this season in an effort to try and get a bit closer to the stronger riders in the club. As part of that I had my legs sugared for the first time a couple of weeks ago and, although new and shiny, they are now sporting a bold imprint of a chainring together with some very dark blue bruises. My worst injury, however, is not visible as my chest is now inflamed and I am in a fair bit of pain when I breath in too deeply. I have managed to ride a bit, but not very fast and my racing programme has been suspended, which is a bit frustrating but I am also thinking that I was very lucky when I see what happened to Andy. Full marks to the TLI organisers who have contacted me and were very concerned about it and thanks to all those who have been in touch from WVCC.

Wednesday Wrinklies to Malpas

2009-04-29T16:09:00.003+01:00

What do you call a mushroom at a disco? Fun guy. If you want to hear jokes as bad as this, come out on a Wednesday ride. If you don't, you're better riding on your own, or alternatively just don't ride next to Gary Brown!

17 riders, yet another lovely sunny day, beautiful spring countryside and quiet lanes through Beeston, up Gallantry Bank, then a road I've not ridden before past Egerton Green (with quite a long climb up to Hampton Post) and onto Malpas.

A nice cafe - food 7/10, cakes 11/10, toilet 6/10.

I ended up with Keith, Jed, Dave and Gary B (yes more bad jokes) on the way back, we enjoyed the fast section through Peckforton and then Jed, Keith and Dave left us to do a few more miles and Gary and I eventually called a truce 0n both the jokes and the speed front.

Man of the match to Keith for his accelerations up hills (not sure I should encourage him really) and woman of the match award to Claire who's getting stronger every week.

I'm not around on Sunday so if anyone would like to do a post pls. e mail it to Richard Calder or me.

Posted by Eleanor.

TLI Lower Withington Tuesday 28th April

2009-04-29T15:56:00.005+01:00

A horrible wet night: because of the conditions and poor light the organisers thankfully limited us to 4 laps. Craig, Andy Poole, Richard M and Dave rode in the youngsters' race, with Graham, Kevan and me in the over 50s, whilst Nick and Chas marshalled, Ann and Helen Gregory, Jed and Dave Astles supported and Martin W was one of the organisers, so WVCC were v. well represented. Sorry if I've missed anyone!

The race was hard, mainly because of the rain, the poor surface, large puddles, poor light and quite a few cars out on the course, so everyone was a bit twitchy and nervy. In our ride Graham came 4th and Kevan 5th and I finished in the bunch - not sure about the other race, I know Andy P did well, I think in the first three.

As it happens no-one was v. interested in the results, because of a nasty crash at the end of our race when one rider decided to take a wide route to the finish via the grass verge, causing a pile up, and crashing into spectators. Andy Poole and Richard Munro, having safely finished their race, had waited to watch ours finish: and both got caught in the melee, with Richard nursing sore ribs and Andy Poole ending up in Leighton A and E with a fractured rib - I understand he's back home in bed now, nursing his injuries. I gather Andy's bike also got caught in the cross-fire and was damaged. I'm not sure about the other riders.

Best wishes and commiserations to Andy and Richard, I hope they're not feeling too sore for too long.

Posted by Eleanor.

Racing to oblivion...

2009-04-26T18:47:00.005+01:00

Eleanor writes:
Much to my disappointment, when I pulled into Weaverham High School all the riders looked fit, whippet-like and young. I was hoping to see at least a couple of duffers with stabilisers, but no luck. Anyway I resolved to follow the only piece of advice Kevan gave me: get to the front at the start. Somehow however I immediately found myself at the back - on the start line. I don't know how that happened, I must have lost concentration whilst chatting. Well that was the last chatting I did for a long time: right from the start it was a question of concentrating hard in order to stay on a wheel, and trying to follow all the sudden accelerations. Despite my worst fears, the Acton Bridge hill wasn't that bad - the girls all changed down into their smaller rings at the bottom and I was able to keep up OK to the top - but that's when the fun started, when the leaders powered away over the crest and the group singled out, leaving us back-markers struggling to retain contact. Once safely round the corner by the Hazel Pear I could relax in the group, eat and drink something and conduct a detailed study as to how ponytails are best worn under helmets - I've clearly been doing it wrong, which may explain my poor performance. Anyway I kept going for six laps and was rather proud of myself for doing so, in such exalted company: but getting dropped twice, and having to work hard to regain the group, had left me knackered. At the bottom of my seventh assault on the hill I suddenly capitulated - in my brain more than my legs - a moment of weakness, and it was immediately too late to change my mind. Next time I'll try and be tougher, but to be honest I was only too aware that these girls are in a different league, and I knew that if I kept going it wouldn't get any easier.
So, it was a great experience, and I'm really glad I overcame my nerves to enter. Thanks for all the support, it was v. motivating to hear the shouts of "come on El" on every corner, it made a big difference and it was nice to think the other riders were all puzzling as to who this new girl was in their midst - clearly a major threat!