I was stand-in leader for Mike who unfortunately could not
be with us. Geoff Gregory kindly supplied an excellent route, which saved me a
lot of time in preparation.
My main concern was the state of the roads after 12 hours
rain the night before, especially the descents of White Down and Leith Hill. In
the event we had no problems.
Arriving at the Mucky Duck before 1pm (a tailwind assisted PB)
we were met by Geoffrey Shields who had made his own way there, making a group
of 14. Lunch was quickly served, and we were out by 2pm (another PB).
The afternoon route was my own concoction, and involved
climbing Holmbury and White Down, accomplished with aplomb by Ray Dare, now 91
years young, and showing no sign of slowing down. Next week he is going for a
national record 10mile TT, and we wish
him every success.
After White Down there was little appetite for a detour to
climb Chapel Lane, so we went directly to tea at Squires Stoke D’Abernon, where
we met Mike Barrett, on a half day release from domestic duties.
40.6miles 11’s to tea, 3,130ft climbing, 12.75mph moving,
and a massive 1,868calories.
Thanks to Brian for back marking, to all who corner marked,
and very best wishes to Ray the Record Breaker.
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