Eleven of us left the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre at 1100 sharp; John had phoned his apologies due to a failed washing machine which required urgent attention. Grey skies at first, and an air of doubt in the peloton - should I have brought my rain cape? But all was well, the sun returned and we bowled along through some fine countryside, with the temperature steadily climbing, reaching the point at Loxhill where the tar on the road had melted. We thought it had probably happened in yesterday's heat, but it was still quite a mess.
Not a hilly day, but Breakneck Hill promised some entertainment, though, in the event, the A Group is so hardened by the Surrey Hills that it was quite difficult to know which hill was Breakneck. No-one seemed to mind, and we arrived good and early at the Stag, a very nice pub where we ate well in the sunny garden.
Back on the road after lunch and the temperature hovered around 30C for the rest of the afternoon, comfortable enough while riding, but very noticeable if you stopped. Near Loxwood we lost Mike - despite the protestations of the corner marker he was obviously in the zone and flew past the turning. Steve spoke to him on the phone and he elected to carry on the way he was pointing, which seemed fair enough.
Onwards through more familiar lanes to Walliswood, where Steve and Dave left to take a direct route home over White Down; the rest of us went steadily to Newdigate where we enjoyed ice-creams. Janice left here, to begin her journey home.
Over to Pixham and tea at Pilgrim Cycles - a shady table outside, but still very warm. No-one was complaining.
50.6 miles elevenses to tea - easy miles, in the conditions, and 2,729 feet of climbing, which seems a lot for a flat day. No problem, anyway.
My thanks to Neil, the indefatigable back marker, to all of the corner markers for their help, and to all of the group for their company. We had a proper Summer's day out.
Mark
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