May Bank Holiday, so off to the Isle of Wight to ride the Randonnée. This year was the best for a while, with blue skies and warm sunshine all the way, and almost no wind. We had a grand ride - our fastest ever. (Not by much, but you take what you can get, at our age.)
There have been some changes to the event, reflecting the growing popularity of cycling. The ride has previously alternated direction around the Island, which gives quite a different experience. From this year the direction is fixed as clockwise in order to avoid bike jams on the Chain Ferry, where you see Maggie above. Entry has also changed. Previously you could just turn up and sign on on the line. Growing numbers have meant that it is now online entry only, with numbers capped at 2000. It was fully subscribed weeks before the start, so if you fancy a ride next year be sure to get in early.
67.9 miles, 4,389 feet of ascent and a rolling average of 11.9mph, all on the magnificent Flying Gate - Prince of Tandems.
Our thanks to the IoW Wayfarers for another great event, and for the Mums and PTAs at the schools around the Island for the cakes.
Mark
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