New Year's Day - Isle of Skye

This is Pete Horne's usual ride starting from VS Cycles in Brighouse at 10am. A hangover is optional. Usual route - through Huddersfield to Holmfirth for a cafe stop. Then over the road known here as "Isle of Skye" to Greenfield, Denshaw and back over windy gap to the Puzzle Hall Inn in Sowerby Bridge.

Riley's Treat - 23 December 07

Don't forget to put tinsel on your bars for Sunday. There is talk that Nigel might add to his Santa hat and come out on Sunday in the full outfit - as pictured here.

It is Denholme Gate at 10 o'clock for a potter out to Lothersdale and back via Widdop to Hebden Bridge, with a stop along the way for a bacon butty in Caldwell Tea Rooms.

Then it is up to the Robin Hood in Pecket Well for another Riley's Treat. We should be there by from around 1pm I suspect. Paul Gower hasn't practiced his "turn" but says if we get him on early he should be able to remember most of it.

Cheers, Ian

In memory ...

Jeff Tatt is on the right here with John Berry in a photo from the 2006 club dinner. They are both holding engraved vases commemerating the award of life membership of the Condor. Jeff joined the Condor in the early fifties, shortly after the club was founded in 1949. He was a keen tester and a valued clubman. For several years he organised schoolboy races up at Odsal and encouraged younger riders to get involved in racing.

Jeff Tattersfield

For those who had'nt heard, our clubmate, Jeff Tatt, died peacefully, in St James's Hospital, Leeds last Sunday.

Following a private cremation a service of remembrance will be held at Halifax Parish Church at 3.30pm Monday December 3rd.

November OGM - Minutes

As a special treat, here are the minutes of the ordinary club meeting on Wednesday 21 Nov 07.
Present: Robin, Ian, Paul, John, Martyn, Gordon

Cyclocross
Thanks again to everyone who helped out.
New timesheets and lap sheets have been done ready for next year.
Gordon to buy some more tape (or ask Peter for some saying POLICE LINE: DO NOT CROSS).
Paul & John to sort new shoulder numbers for riders.

Club dinner
Saturday 26 Jan at Lightcliffe golf club. 6.30pm for 7. There will be prizes and a raffle!

Trophies
Currently in Martyn's loft. Need engraving. To sort with Ian.

AGM
Wednesday 16 Jan in the Puzzle Hall Inn, Sowerby Bridge at 9pm. Minutes to follow.

Runs Sheets
yes, I really will get the runs sheets sorted soon for the rest of this year. Imps havn't sorted 2008 yet but I dare say that it won't be much different from usual...

ian


You're being a bit sarcastic about my Imps runs sheet aren't you Ian. Well I'll have you know it does look a bit different this time cos I've re-designed it slightly! Janice (Imps)
5:51 PM
Ian Robinson said...
Hi Janice No. Well not intentionally!I meant that I hadn't seen the 2008 list yet, but that we would probably go to the same sort of places and the do the same sort of rides in 2008 as we did in 2007 because that is what works best. The new version has a lovely layout, thanks for sending it round. Ian
4:53 PM

11 Nov - Condor Cross

A good event on a cold bright day. Thanks again to John Ginley for organising. Thanks also to everyone that turned up to help out - Gordon, Paul, Brian, JD, Melvyn, John "el Presidente" Lumb, Eric and more!

It is also worth mentioning that we had no less than FOUR riders in the vets race from a packed field of 63 riders

- Grimpy had a great start and held on well to finish 11th overall and first over 60

- Richard Burnham ("Vicar") finished 20-something and second over 50

- Ian Wellock rode well (on a mountain bike!) for a very creditable finish mid-table

- Steve Cavell flew the club colours with a good ride.

I should also mention Andy Marshall (VS Cycles) who was right at the sharp end and finished well inside the top ten.

Apologies for the very rough placings. I'll have to have a stern word with the chap at the finish line (me!) who was noting down final positions. He'll have to do better next year!

The Youths race had a good field. The U12's was chaos! The seniors race was very fast and reminded me why volunteering to marshall is much better than actually riding ...

Hopefully Pete "the flash" Horne will have some pictures for us soon.

4 Nov - MTB ride

Another MTB ride this weekend, this time over Barden Moor.

Meet Addingham - layby at junction of A65 and Silsden Road for 9am.

Ring Ian 07811 203 387 if you are coming!

Sunday 14th Oct

Melvin and myself and possibly Ian are considering riding the Dalby Forest Mountain Bike Marathon on Sunday. A 45mile route north of Pickering. The start is at High Rigg Farm in Dalby Forest - about two hours drive from Calderdale - we intend being there for about 8.30 for a 9am start. Its very good MTB country which should be extra good in Autumn colours. If its half as good as the Grassington Round two weeks ago or the Season of Mists last week it will be well worth the effort. If you want further details respond to this blog or ring me on either 07770 945494 or 01422 205547

27 Sep - Velodrome

Our friends at PedalSport are running another set of training nights at Manchester Velodrome. The next ones are 27 Sept and 18 Oct, 8pm til 10pm. Phone Mark at PedalSport if you want to book in - 01422 361 460.

SEASON OF MISTS

Whilst on the subject of Audax's don't forget to enter the Season of Mists - 100 scenic Km, Sunday 7th of October from Hebden Bridge.

Halifax CTC's famous catering at the finish.

3 PEAKS ALTERNATIVE

As you will all have heard this years Peaks has been cancelled.

In order not to waste the specific fitness we have all been working on I suggest we enter the 'Grassington Round' off road Audax. Only £3 entry for 82k. I'm going to do it on the cross bike seeing as how I've invested £20 on a pair of Landcruisers. Details on Audax UK web site.

Its on Saturday 29th Sept

19 Sept - Club Meeting

In the Puzzle Hall Inn, Sowerby Bridge, from 9pm.

Agenda:

1. Grimpy's cyclocross -

2. items for next newsletter - 3 Peaks report

3. dates for 2008 - AGM, club dinner

4. renewing memberships of BC, CTT, CTC, HCA, etc.

30 August - Grimpy's Birthday Bash

Grimps has arranged a "do" this Thursday from 9pm in the Brown Horse, Coley. There will be some food and, quite possibly, some beer. What more do you need?

There is the usual Imps ride first from Hx Post Office at 7.30.

Ian

26 August - Kettlewell

We haven't been to visit Madame Zarina's Cafe in Kettlewell for a while, so that is the plan for Sunday. Route is flexible but might well involve Arncliffe to Malham (or perhaps Arncliffe to Malham) at some point. I guess that means going up (or down) the side of the cove.
Meet 08.30 at Keighley roundabout and Melvyn can half-wheel us all day from there.

Sunday 19 Aug - MTB run

The weather is like Autumn and so are the club runs - the mtb season is starting early this year. So far it is Steve, Robin, Nigel and Ian meeting at 8.30 in Hebden Bridge at the Nutclough traffic lights (2 mins up the hill toward Pecket Well). After that we can go whereever is most wet/muddy and laugh at me falling off. Anybody else fancy coming along?

YCF 100

Brian pictured riding to 4th place in yesterdays YCF 100 mile time trial. In rather wet looking conditions he finished just one minute over the four hour mark.

RACE NEWS

As you can see from the above Grimpy's been doing a lot of posing recently. The top pic is from the podium of last Sundays BC National Road Races held in Staffordshire, John took silver in his age group once again conceding gold to his 'bete noire' Mick Ives.
The other photo is taken at the end of last Wednesday's cyclo-cross at Greetland All Rounders and includes Steve Cavell and former Condor member Andy Whitworth (propriator of Tri Cycling at Kirkburton). John not only took the over 60's but he also beat the over 50's. This was the last event in the Yorkshire summer series, Steve was 3rd vet 50 overall.
Brian appears to be going well (although he would no doubt deny it). I've managed to find a few of his results on the net from the last couple of weeks. He took bronze in the Vets National 25 mile TT Champs, the following week he won his category in the LVRC Road Race at Stokesley and last Sunday he was 5th overall in a quality all age group field in the Pennine CC '50' witha 1.52. He did'nt defend his National 100 mile title but will be riding the YCF 100 next Sunday.

29 July - a trip to church

Steve is getting married soon and needs to be at Austwick for 11am on Sunday. So it the spirit of a dedicated rider the only way to get there is by bike of course.

Parishoners of the church of seventh day cyclists are invited to gather at 08:30 at Keighley roundabout. The congregation will then proceed to Settle at the regulation pace of 17.5 mph. There will be a collection for bacon and egg sandwiches in Settle.

Hopefully our lead chorister Neil will sing an aria on the way back through Oxenhope and over old road to the tune of "Cramp of ages".

FREE BEER - 18 July Club Meeting

Gordon Turner is celebrating his 80th birthday this week and would like to buy all his fellow Condors a beer (or maybe two) at the club meeting this Wednesday 18/7.
We'll be at the Puzzle Hall Inn as usual from 9pm and, if the rain holds off, going for a ride first from Luddenden Foot at 7pm.

Condor R.C. Amble Sunday 8th July

Anybody out there interested in this wonderful walk from Luddenden Foot starting 10.15.
8 mile circuit , lunch at Cat in't Well, return around 4 pm. Full details posted earlier .

I aint exactly been inundated with punters !!!

Contact Trev. on home no.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

A good picture of Mick Collins shortly before he was caught on the last lap at the Brighouse Town Centre races last Tuesday (pic. from BC website). Note the map holder left attached to his bars after the 3 Coasts 600 Audax. Just proves that all that beer at the Catty must be good for you. Mick attacked with 4 laps to go - if he'd waited another lap he may have won the £200 first prize.

As Ian mentions, last Saturdays Rumble was a tough course but its only as hard as you make it. The photo's are approaching the summit of Blakey Bank, a climb that has been used for the National Hill Climb Champs. There was a really long descent following that climb along Blakey Ridge and down to Castleton and then east down Eskdale. Then a loop over the moors took us to Rosedale and the 2nd 'Hors' category climb up Rosedale Chimney ( 1 in 3 and another former National Hill Climb Champs climb). Following the Chimney it was down to a feed station at Hutton-le-Hole. Some big gear work followed as the course headed south and into the Howardian Hills around Castle Howard. The third feed was at Ampleforth School. Only 20 miles to go from Ampleforth but they were not easy miles. Another Hors' cat climb up White Horse Bank to bring us out at the top of Sutton Bank and I was expecting a steady run in for the last 10 miles or so but with only three or four miles to go to the finish we were turned left to visit Rievaulx Abbey and the steep climb from Rievaulx to the main road - I was beginning to lose my sense of humour and I know Melvyn felt the same. As mentioned by Ian, Melvyn recorded the third fastest time, what Ian did'nt know was that if Mel had'nt soft peddeled riding with me for the first 20+ miles he would without doubt have recorded the fastest time of the day. I was quite happy with 18th overall and 1st over 50. A very good route, everything well organised and a lovely change of scenery - put it in your diary for next year ( its going to be in August in '08).

FORTHCOMING EVENTS -

Sunday 8th July - Brimham Rocks 200k Audax, one of the CTC West Yorkshire Series, a nice steady ride with checks at cafe's at Knaresbourough, Howstean & Otley.

Sunday 5th August - Pendle Pedal Sportive - did this last year, its a really good route and well organised.

IMPORTANT!!!!!! Entry forms for the 3 Peaks Cyclo-Cross go live on the web on Sunday the 1st of July - you must enter early to avoid disappointment.

26 June - Brighouse Criterium

It was a good night and very enjoyable to watch from the sidelines. There were quite a few local riders to cheer on, including Daniel Shaw (Hx Imps), John Dogherty and Paul Dixon (VS Cycles) and of course our ex-member Andy Marshall (VS Cycles). Photos from the British Cycling website http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/.

Start of the Elite race

The lead group. Tom Barras is third wheel and went on to win the sprint finish.
See also http://www.brighousecircuitracing.co.uk/

23 June - Rydale Rumble

Peter and Melvyn both had a fine ride in the Rydale Rumble on Saturday 23 June. The detailed results show Melv finishing in third place just five minutes outside the top time. Peter took the steadier option but wasn't far behind at the finish in 18th place. The only comment I've heard from them was that it was "hard".

See http://www.bcyorkshire.com/html/the_ryedale_rumble.htm.
Thanks to http://www.cyclingmages.co.uk/ for the sample photos. They have big versions available to buy there for this and several other rides.

ELMET CRC 12 HOUR - NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP 29TH JULY 2007

Keith Lawton from CTT has alerted clubs to the plight of the Elmet CRC who are running the Nat '12' Champs in our region: they are short of marshalls for the event. Anyone who can help? Please ring Ray Charles on 01757 269287 asap.

12 hour(and 24 hour) events are the ultimate spectator sport. Rider after rider increasingly suffering as the day wears on. Perhaps Brian will ride it. It will then be the opportunity of a lifetime to see him suffering all day.

Otley Crits Tonight 20th June

Anybody going to watch Otley Crits tonight. See you for a pint at Rose & Crown next to Chevin Cycles about 7.30.

White Rose Classic

Photos from the web - 2 from last weeks WRC and 2 recent TT photo's of Brian

Good Comapanions 200k tomorrow, 8am Mytholmroyd

Ryedale Rumble Sportive next Saturday.........Melvyn and myself have entered, Neil & Robin are reported to be on the verge of doing so. Great course round the North Yorks Moors National Park.

10 June - White Rose Classic

.

.

.

.

.

Neil had a "whale" of a time on his new Orca, and Melvyn apparently looked "fin-ished" by the tail-end. Still, they posted a very respectable sub-7hrs for a top-30 placing, with Mr Ingham also along for the ride. Pete Horne was also doing well with a 7.29 and well inside the top 100. Although strangely there are no photos of Peter ...

Further down the field, Nigel, Vicar and myself had our our personal battles to fight. My problem came with hills - just no power for climbing. Given that the ride went over Norwood Edge, Fleet Moss, Coal Road, Dent head, Silverdale and Langbar for a total 3911 metres of climbing this was something of a setback. The only consolation was having Nigel leave me for dead at Hawes (and rightly so given the state I was in) but then catching him up at Malham for a companionable ride to the finish, despite some mechanical troubles.

Sat in the sun on the grass at the finish with pint in hand, this wasn't a bad ride as we swopped tales and watched other riders arrive in even more wretched forms. But I'm not rushing to enter another "challenge" ride for some time. Roll on some easy Wednesday night rides instead!

(thanks to http://www.cyclingimages.co.uk/ for the pictures - go there if you want to purchase)

6 June - Imps Skipton & Back

The best thing about this ride? ... the sandwiches and cheese platter at the Brown Horse! Thanks to the Imps for laying on the excellent tea.

There was a good turnout of around 30 riders, including a last-minute charge from the VS Cycles contingent to make the start line just in time. The usual fast pace then took us out against a nagging easterly wind with a small band of strong riders doing a lot of the work on the front. After coming though once very briefly, I soon realised why so many people were vying for position at the back of the bunch.

The early turn on the outskirts of Skipton was a welcome point in the ride as we could then get a small breather on the slightly downhill return to Crosshills. Of course, what goes down must then go up and the "fun" of Ingrow wasn't far away. This hill sorted out the weaker riders and I soon found myself trailing slowly off the back. Encouragement came fairly quickly though when some others began to drift back too.

It was all over by the time I got to the finish, and I had to wait until the pub to hear how Neil would've done even better in sprinting for the line if only he'd known where the finish line was!

3 June - Tatham Fells

Another great ride through the Trough of Bowland. We had a fast run straight up to Settle but - horrors! - no cafe stop yet. Instead the Hartley twins encouraged us to go on right over Tatham Fells before finally reaching Slaidburn. The sandwiches and the setting are both great at the Riverside cafe, but at 58 miles from home it was about 7 miles too far for my legs.

Things recovered as the food & tea worked into the system for the run home. A grand total of 102 miles and another fine day on the bike. Ian

VS Cycles Brighouse Circuit Races 26th June

Please make a note in your diaries for this event.

Got some mighty fine riders entered and it will be fast and furious around this tricky circuit.

So will be seeing any Condors flying around with numbers on their backs or just supping pints???!!!

CONDOR R.C. AMBLE 8TH JULY 2007

The first family walk will be on Sunday 8th July from Luddenden Foot via the Cat i‘th Well for lunch.
This is a circular walk of some 8 miles through very pleasant and varied countryside.
It is hilly but not too strenuous and is very suitable for children. WARNING: Cyclists should be fully “walking fit”
START: Luddenden Foot car park by the bridge.
TIME: 10.15
LUNCH: Cat i’th Well 12.30 --?
FINISH: Luddenden Foot 4.00
The pub serves excellent value meals, including sandwiches, and any cyclists should note that the beer is also rather good.
The Landlord would appreciate some idea of numbers so will you please let Trevor know if you will be attending.
Phone: 01274 874789 Email: trevor@avocet-dyes.co.uk

20 May - Etape du Dales

A lovely day to enjoy the great scenery of the dales. We had quiet roads, no hassle from cars and good weather. In fact it was so sunny I've got sunburnt knees. And oh yes, it nearly slipped my mind, and there was seven hours of suffering in the saddle too ...

Despite the various hardships I think all will be pleased with their ride on the day.

Robin flew round hard on the wheel of his mate Jamie Newall for the fastest Condor time yet. Melvyn followed close behind and posted a very respectable overall time.

Many thanks to Neil and Martin (Hx Imps) who joined me just for company and ended up working tirelessly all day on the front. I'd have been really grovelling in the latter stages without these two for support.

2007 Results:

Greg Ketteringham 6:02:21
(Greg was first back - just so we know what to aim for next year)

Robin Holt 6:29:12
Melvin Hartley 6:42:18
Ian Robinson 7:29:38
Richard Burnham 7:36:56
Nigel Hartley 7:58:06
Peter Round ???? - no result available

2006 Results

Andrew Wrigley 06:10:34 (first back)
Greg Ketteringham 06:20:20 (improved to 2007 winner)

Ian Robinson 6:57:18
Robin Holt 6:59:08
Nigel Hartley 7:04:38
Peter Round 7:17:57
Peter Horne 7:25:25

For full results see http://www.etapedudales.co.uk/

Pictures will follow on http://www.kennedyimages.co.uk/index.asp

"GOOD AS NEW" ITEMS FOR SALE

1. Integrated Cinelli 'Angel' Tri-Bars, complete with Shimano brake levers and bar end (very slick) changers. Super fast time trialling capability.
2. Rondelli padded, bike bag. One lady owner (Paulette).
3. Hard shell bike box complete with straps and internal foam padding. Virtually baggage handler proof.

Contact Philip on 01422 300254 (home) or 01274 433167 (work).

Traing run map on bikely.com

I recently discovered this natty little tool for creating and sharing routes/training runs etc. As a test I have tapped in the Wednesday night training run. I thought it may be useful, especially for anyone new, who gets stranded in Lancashire after getting dropped out of Milnrow!
http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Condor-RC-Wednesday-Training-Run-7pm
Please let me know of any mistakes, I had to make up the last bit down to Puzzle Hall having never made it myself! You can also view the elevation profile if you go to the 'Show' tab then select 'Elevation Profile'. Cheers, Daniel

13 May - 08.00 Denholme

This Sunday there is a suggestion we meet 08.00 at Denholme and then plan a run from there. Pateley Bridge and Masham have been mentioned. See you there - or 08.30 in Keighley. I'll be bringing a rain jacket ... Ian

6 May - Bank Holiday Weekend

Nmbers are down this weekend with several people away. Despite the poor weather forecast, Ian & Nigel are meeting at Luddenden Foot for 08:00 on Sunday for a run out west. Let one of us know if you are coming.

Sunday 29 April - 8am Denholme Gate

This Sunday we are meeting 08:00 at Denholme Gate for (yet another) run over Silverdale and on to Settle. All good practice for the Etape du Dales in a few weeks.

Our heroes at the Imps Road Race

22 April - Imps Road Race

This news just in from Grimpy, our racing correspondent :

Brian is really going well. I spent nearly 40 miles being dragged around in MOTO 1 with Brian and five others in the Halifax Imps Pete Fryer race yesterday on the Norland Circuit. I occasional went thro but I don’t think Brian missed a turn. It’s a great feeling and a shock to the system getting up speed in a breakaway, even when on my old Colnago still with mudguard on from winter.

I think Brian was third overall (2nd in age group) I just managed to stay with them coming in last in the break (7th) in pain.

Sunday 22nd April

I don't think anything has been arranged as yet. I'm only intending going for a local potter around the lanes finishing up at Norland to give our lads a shout in the Imps RR (hoping to get a few pic's for the blog). If anyone fancies the same let me know either on this blog or call me on Hx 205547. I had in mind going over Outlane to Marsden then perhaps over the Floating Light and back over Buckstones - meeting at Elland Bridge at 0830hrs?

The folowing Saturday I've entered the VC167 300k Audax from Wigginton (York) - so if you want a good excuse to put your feet up all day Sunday why not come along.

Spring has sprung

THREE HAPPY CONDORS HAVING RE-FUELED FOLLOWING THE SPRING INTO THE DALES

Commiserations to the ill & injured - it is unlikely there will ever be such a perfect day for the event again. Melvyn, Lumby, Richard, Clive, Paul and myself represented the Condor. Melvyn and I found ourselves with a sporting group which included Pete Whiteley, Mick Collins, a butcher from Hebden Bridge, a triathlete from Luddenden Foot, a doctor from Sheffield, a boxer from Stainland and a sprinter from VC Briganti. Spurred on by perfect weather conditions a cracking pace was sustained throughout the ride. Mick Collins and his mates 'pulled a fast one' by racing away from the Keighley checkpoint whilst others were still being served, however divine intervention struck in the form of Mick sustaining a puncture at Pecket Well allowing us to offer our sympathy to him as we passed him by the roadside on our way to finish at 1330hrs.

15 April - Spring into the Dales

From www.westyorkshiresr.org.uk:

A hilly 110 kilometre ride from Hebden Bridge, into the Yorkshire Dales, with a generous time limit based on a minimum speed of 12 kph and a maximum of 24 kph.

Start: 9:00 am Sunday 15 April 2007 at Salem Community Centre, Salem Street, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire.

Brief route details are as follows: -
Hebden Bridge - Oxenhope - Stanbury - Laneshaw Bridge - Earby – West Marton – Gargrave - Cracoe – Burnsall – Bolton Abbet - Addingham - Silsden - Keighley - Oxenhope – Hebden Bridge.

Sadly I won't be out but hope you all have a great ride in the warm spring sunshine. Make sure a Condor rider is the first to fly home to the finish as usual ...

Easter Runs?

Anyone planning to be out this Easter?

An Easter break ...

Yep, it is a broken collarbone as confirmed by a trip to Halifax General on Sunday night. They took a nice picture something like the one here. It'll be two weeks (probably more) before I can even think about trying to get fit again. At least, that is my excuse now for the rest of this season ...

Thanks again to Brian and Neil who got my bike sorted while I adopted the classic "Napoleon Bonaparte" position with my right arm tucked into my jersey. Your help was great.

The train home didn't work out as planned, but I did manage to get through to Clare and organise a lift after a while. If only I'd had Ian W's mobile number to stop him as he drove past in Settle in a van!

I hope to be in the Puzzle on Wednesday - just sadly not by bike.

Ian

Denholme Settle and beyond

An eventful ride today (1st April).

Ian gave a new meaning to the phrase 'hitting the wall' when he - well - hit the wall descending in to Settle and had to take the rail assisted route home nursing what I fear, when the medics do their work, will be confirmed as a broken collarbone.

After threatening to turn at Settle Damien found a second wind and when I last saw him he was leading from the front. There's a moral for you there Damien stick at it, as the great Jos Naylor said it's 70% in the mind.

At some point, somewhere south of Gargrave, after about four hours on the limit, I lost my own personal battle, and to be quite frank, interest in the sight of Niel's back side and so decided to make my own way home. I'd hoped that the first real outing on my new best bike might give me an edge but every other b*****d was out on there's so no advantage there then. Moral for me Damien it's not the bike but the rider.

Hope you're well Ian - I might see you down at the Puzzle on Wednesday, but somehow I doubt it.

Roll Call:

Nige
Melvyn
Damien
Brian
Grimpy
Ian (part)
Niel
Me

Richard

1 April - Settle and beyond

There will be an "April fools" outing from Denholme Gate at 09:00 for a ride up to Settle via Airton and - if the weather looks good - home over Bowland Knotts.

NEWS UPDATE

Evening mountain bike runs started last Monday with over 30 riders meeting outside VS Cycles in Brighouse at 1830hrs. We had a good ride in superb conditions going up through Rastrick Woods, down a superb descent, over the railway line and through the fields to Elland. Through Elland Bridge Park, up Gogg Hill, through to West Vale and along the side of Black Brook to Elistones Lane. Then up to Upper Greetland, down through Copley Woods and back to the Red Rooster along the canal towpath. The rides will meet there every Monday at 6.30pm through to when the clocks change back. Although some occasionally stop at the odd pub on the way round the runs always finish at the Rooster where the landlord, Eddie puts on a free supper.

The racing season is several weeks old now with Brian and John once again flying the flag for the Condor. They rode the LVRC Australian Pursuits at Barton-on-Humber last Saturday with Brian taking his first win of the new season easily beating former Huddersfield Star Wheeler, Richard Booth with whom he had formed part of a three man break earlier in the race. Grimpy showed that he's carried over his cyclo-cross form from the winter to take 6th place.

Myself and Nigel flew the Condor colours in the 200k Red Rose Audax on Sunday. We were joined by Damian, former Condor Pete Whiteley, Mick Collins, Steve Robinson (Sowerby Bros) and a few more familiar faces whose names escape me. It was dry and sunny but certainly not the glorious NW Passage weather, with a stiff, cold easterly wind making the home leg of 60 miles from Lantern o'er the Lune cafe at Glasson Docks, hard work. Hard or not it did'nt stop Nigel putting in the lions share of the work an the way home, I was almost feeling sorry for him as he was left on the front into the blustery wind - but I soon got over it. I went through whats become a familiar format, dropped on the climbs, spend miles chasing alone, catch the bunch at the cafe, nip out of the cafe whilst the're waiting for their tea to cool, get caught, sit in till the next climb then get dropped again. It was good to see Clive Williamson at the start, he's rumoured to have made a full recovery now from being run down by a motorist over Cringles a couple of years ago, he's obviously full of confidence and I hope he enjoyed the ride.

25th March - Trough of Bowland & Glasson Dock

It's rumoured that the youngsters are going Youth Hostelling this weekend. The rest are meeting at the Oddfellows Rooms, Coleridge Street, Halifax for The Red Rose 200k Audax. Start time 0800hrs (don't forget to put your clocks forward).

18 March - 09:00 Denholme Gate

Meet 09:00 Denholme Gate with your winter kit on prepared for snow! Off north & then out west. A route was discussed but just now I can't for the life of me remember anything about it. Clearly I should listen more (or drink less) on a Wednesday in the pub. But Deuchars IPA is such a good ale...

Club meeting on next Wednesday 21 March 21:00 in the Puzzle Inn, Sowerby Bridge.

11 March - out west toward Slaidburn

Meet 09:00 at Luddenden Foot for a run out west toward Slaidburn. The riverside cafe does great bacon and egg sandwiches, or can we only go there when it is sunny enough to sit outside?

4 March - Blubberhouses

RARE PHOTO OF GRIMPY LEARNING TO RIDE HIS FIRST BIKE

We meet Denholmegate 0900hrs for the Blubberhouses route in reverse - Barden via Cringles or Eastby Brow, Stump X Caverns, Greenhow, Duck Street, I suggest instead of dropping down to Blubberhouses we turn left and go to Otley via Fewston & Norwood Edge. Cafe stop either at Stump X Caverns cafe or at Otley.

N.W.PASSAGE Audax Sec's report

SPORTIVE - FULL OF CYCLISTS WHO LIKE TO THINK THEY ARE RACING

AUDAX - FULL OF CYCLISTS WHO LIKE TO THINK THEY ARE NOT RACING

Thats what Bob Johnson (VC167) told me just before he shot off up the road to join a break of 3 or 4 that had developed on the way up from Tod. to Holme Chapel.

Once again we were blessed with Spring like weather for the North West Passage. Whilst it was disappointing not to see Brian or Grimpy on the start line we did have a good turn out with Nigel, Melvyn, Ian, Pete R, Richard and myself together with Andy Marshall, Martin Clemenson & Daniel Shaw.

It was the largest entry I've ever seen for the 200, so much so that we were set off in four seperate groups. This took the Condors by surprise, we had to set off in the 3rd group so for the first five minutes or so we had to work our way up to the lead group. We settled down near the front, said goodbye to that early break up the Burnley Road. West Pennine's star rider, Daniel Shand being the driving force in the break; rumour was that he had promised hid dad that he would be back to the Spring Inn before 3'o clock.

I was surprised that no Condors chased down the break (Philip would never have let them go without a Condor present). When we reached Blacko I realised that they had been biding their time waiting for the mountains. Richard and I 'lost intrest' at this time and drifted off the back of the bunch. (Nigel tells me no one in the group had put the hammer down, "we just rode in the group", obviously he did'nt look behind or he would have seen that the 'group' was spread out all the way back down the climb). I got over the top of Greystone intending not to chase but inevetably found myself in a group of four with myself and Dennis from West Pennine doing bit and bit eventually pulling back the bunch just as they rode into Settle.

At the check in the Naked Man cafe Pete Round took pity on an old man and let me push in to get my card stamped. A quick banana and a swig of energy drink and I jumped back on the bike with the stated intention of getting to the top of Buck Haw Brow before I was caught by the bunch. I got up Bukka', slipped it onto the big ring and settled down to evens waiting for the arrival of the mob. I was still waiting as I approached Cowan Bridge. I wound it up to 25's thinking I might just be able to get through the Kirby Lonsdale check before being caught; then the inevitable happened, I was'nt just pulled in but passed by an express train travelling at 30+ mph. My heart swelled with pride as I saw that the bunch was being driven by a flock of Condors, resplendent in full team kit, together with Andy (who may now be wearing a VS jersey but will always really be a Condor).

We got to Devils Bridge, cards stamped, mix energy drink, eat banana and sneak off whilst the others are chewing bacon butties and waiting for their tea to cool. According to my computer I had averaged just under 19mph to KL so I was expecting it to be harder than it was on the return leg, down through Lancaster to the Priory Cafe at Scorton, the computer rarely going below 20mph. Egged on by the fact that I had'nt been caught by the Condors I did'nt loiter too long at Scorton, just mixed a fresh bottle, ate two yogurt covered 'Eat Natural' bars whilst having chat with Harry Benson who was telling me how much he admired 'Ginley's' exploits on the world stage. Thinking of the old adage 'out of sight, out of mind' I jumped back on the bike before the other Condors arrived.

I was still feeling reasonable at Longridge, suffered as usual up through Salesbury but whilst freewheeling down the Blackburn By-pass began to wonder if I could stay away (not that its any sort of race of course). I managed to swallow two more 'Eat Natural' bars as insurance for 'Owd Betts'. Oswaldtwistle Moors did'nt seem as bad as usual - must have been a tail wind - Owd Betts also seemed easier than before - perhaps its because I was'nt having to attempt to stay on someone else's wheel. An easy free wheel down through Rochdale to check in at the Spring Inn at 3.45 and that was it for the umpteenth time - the weather just gets better and better (I remember the days when we rode through snow storms over Oswaldtwistle Moors - on fixed as well).

Andy, Nigel, Melvyn & Ian finished about 4pm with Pete and Richard not far behind. Martin & Daniel also finished at about the same time. I was amazed how fresh and happy everyone looked at the finish - must have been the weather.

Sorry there are no photo's but I couldnt bring myself to take another one of Condors sat in a pub, people might get the right impression.

North West Passage

Saturday the 17th February is the date (not Saturday the 10th - a rumour spread by the Imps, and not Sunday the 17th - confusion tactics being circulated by Ian). 8am from the Spring Inn for 200k or 9am for the 120k event.

Sunday the 25th of February meet outside the Ritz in Brighouse at 0900hrs for the HCA Reliability Ride. John Kaye has been busy working on an exciting new route for this year.

Forthcoming local events to note in your diary -

Sunday the 25th of March, The Red Rose Ride, a Chris Crossland 200k Audax taking us over the Trough Of Bowland to Glasson Dock for a greasy butty and a pot of tea then back to Halifax for the feast.

Sunday the 15th of April, 'Spring into the Dales' 110k Audax, another Chris Crossland event starting only a few yards away from Pete Round's front door in Hebden Bridge. It says in the handbook '2 cafe stops', I'm not sure if these are compulsory but I hope so. Its been rumoured that once Ian was out of our sight last year he took a short cut so we'll have to keep an eye on him this time.

Club Dinner

11 Feb - 09:30 Brighouse

This is the last Sunday run before North West Passage on the 17th so you'll be wanting to get plenty of miles in.

Meet 09:30 in Brighouse outside VS Cycles (www.vscycles.co.uk).

Ian

Thursday 8 Feb - Track Night

Pedalsport (King Cross Cycles) run regular trips to the track at Manchester Velodrome as training sessions for all levels. Beginners welcome. See www.pedalsport.co.uk for full details.

4 Feb - Silverdale in the sunshine

Eleven riders set out from Denholme in warm, bright sunshine for this day out in the dales. JohnG's world championship medal must have been weighing heavy round his neck because he turned for home at Arncliffe with Daniel for company, while Damien was last seen pedalling on toward Kettlewell.

The remaining eight "enjoyed" the climb over Silverdale and down into Settle for the cafe stop. Overcome with enthusiasm they they "enjoyed" even more going over Attermire to Airton. As long as you didn't stop to fix a loose mudguard, the happy band then had an easy run down to Gargrave for the route home.

Fantastic weather and clear visibility made it a great day to be out for early Feb.

Grimpy on the Worlds Podium

Well done John!

28 Jan - Downham

We made our run out to Downham as planned, even if a strong headwind forced an early pit-stop at Whalley. The quiet little lanes around Rimmington were a pleasure - though perhaps not for Neil. Maybe the 2nd pint at the Condor dinner meant he was a tiny bit dehydrated? We expect you back in top form next week Neil. Meanwhile PeteH is doing the write-up of the dinner - to follow!

Grimpy grabs bronze at World Champs

John took the Bronze at the UCI World Masters Cyclo-Cross Championships 2007 held in Zilvermeer Mol, Belgium on Saturday 20th January. Fantastic!! - congratulations John.

First three in event:

1 Martens Herman (Belgium) Time 35’ 15”
2 Mike Ives (GBR) 36’ 49”
3 John Ginley (Condor Road Club) 37’ 00”
Next GBR rider was Ian Small in 13th place.

We even have this quote from the man himself: "Fast race, poor start, eventually caught Mike Ives but couldn’t hold him. I was pleased to get on the rostrum and collect my UCI world medal and my Duvel beer, but I'm not too sure about the flowers.

ps Peter - please note the clean jersey with no mud"

Thanks to Andy Kerr (MI racing) who took the photos.

AGM 18/1/07

The Condors flock together for the Annual General Meeting at Greetland Community Centre, Wednesday evening, 18th January

21 Jan - Airton / Settle

We met 09:30 Denholme Gate as usual. Though fewer in number than the past couple of weeks we were joined at the start by a welcome "new" face Blair Buss, and then by Chris Young for a few miles into Gargrave. Hopefully all had an enjoyable if wintery ride and got home safely.
Ian

Malham Arncliffe 14th Jan

Just introducing myself to the blog and testing it out really.

Hard run on Sunday - hanging on by the time we reached Malham only to find we weren't having the cafe stop in Malham but Cracoe! It's a bloody long way over the top to Cracoe when you're already spent at Malham.

Dragged myself round though and feel pleased with myself for that! Thanks lads (Ian, Melvyn, Sean and Andy) for waiting for me on a couple of occassions.

Wednesday 17 Jan - AGM Greetland 9pm

A bumper turnout saw us struggling for chairs at the AGM at Greetland Sports & Social Club on Wednesday 17 January 2007.

1. All ordinary meetings will now be at the PUZZLE HALL INN in Sowerby Bridge but continue to fall on the THIRD WEDNESDAY of each month. The next meeting is 21 FEB at 9pm.

2. New club officials:

All hail our esteemed new president Mr JOHN LUMB. There was a vote of thanks to the outgoing president TREVOR LEVER, who now moves to the post of press secretary.

There was also a vote of thanks to the outgoing secretary PHILIP SMITHIES who is (we hope) now going to be taking life easier after a long service to the Condor committee. The new general secretary and webmeister is IAN ROBINSON.

JD SMITH continues as racing scretary, and PETE HORNE as mtb/Audax secretary.

Finaly, PAUL GOWER has kindly agreed to carry on as treasurer which means he'll be after you soon for 2007 membership subs - still at the bargain rate of only £6 ...

14 Jan - Malham / Arncliffe

Meet 09:30 at Denholme Gate as usual.

Last year we had a run to the cafe at Malham and then over to Arncliffe. Same again?

Fred & others

For anyone who tried and failed, or considered entering but did'nt I recommend that you view www.bikeit.eclipse.co.uk . It includes a photo tour of the full Fred Whitton route plus a map. It also covers other sportive's including the Bealach-na-BA.

Photo - Summit of Newlands in the 2006 Fred

Grimpy on the podium at the National Cyclo-Cross Champs, Southamption, 6th January 2007

Well done John (please remember to take a clean jersey to change into for the Worlds Podium)

New Year's Day in the Puzzle

New Year's Day in the Puzzle (2)