The As ride to lunch was hilly, rolling, undulating - and a bit lumpy!
First off was Pete Bs group - and first to the Punchbowl, (although Pete let slip that a slight short-cut was involved).
Brian led next.
My group of Janice, Andy, Patrick, Neil W, Neil C, Mike and Hans headed off soon after our allotted time for an interesting and unusual route to Okewoodhill. The climb to Ranmore is a long drag and I was happy to get onto the long rolling stretch along the top of the Downs. My group were hard on my heels most of the way but any faster progress would have been in vain as half of Pete's group were still at the bar when we arrived. Lunch was a while being served and then Mike drew the short straw of the missing order. Finally we left at about 2pm for the homeward run and five of us stopped for tea in Leatherhead. My thanks to Janice for back marking and to both Janice and Andy for some welcome drafting on the way back.
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| The Punchbowl Inn - a cold start after lunch. |
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| Weare Street Wayfarers. |
My group was missing Steve W - delayed by a Wahoo glitch to elevenses, but gained John B, delayed by a rogue cashpoint, and then saw Geoffrey descent back from Ranmore. We were warmed by the ascents (lumpy), and reached the Punchbowl as the first groups were awaiting lunch. Alas Frances went without - having lost patience with her order that failed to arrive.
Weare St is always a pleasure to ride, and the pond is a favourite spot for a photo. By the time we reached Amici’s, only Brian was there to welcome us, but we had time for tea before losing daylight. Kudos to Frances for her first 50+ mile since her accident in September.
Thanks to Dave V for backmarking my group, Brian and Pete B for sub-leading, and to Steve D and Brian for photos. An enjoyable, lengthy winter’s ride.
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