Dry roads and mild weather encouraged a good turn out for the first 'training' ride of the year with a good showing from V.S. Cycles, Condor and Imps, (Sean being late and chasing solo all the way to Kettlewell Cafe).
Progress was halted briefly at Threshfield while several riders decided that was far enough and a reduced group carried on to Kettlewell and Zarinas Cafe, (including a slimmed down Lumby who had made an earlier start). An even smaller group pushed on to Buckden (Chris T, Young Alex and me) requiring us to bolt our breakfasts quickly if we were to join the rest for the return ride.
We left Kettlewell in 3 groups, agreeing to return via Hetton and Gargrave where we re-grouped for the ups and downs back to Keighley. We were close to a brush with the law at the traffic lights after Cross Hills when 'stragglers' from the climb from Connonley (you know who you are!) took the customary but highly un-sporting short cut through the cul-de-sac causing others to jump the lights if they wanted to stay with the group - all in view of Mr. Plod waiting at the lights who was using his horn to express his displeasure at this recklessness. I left them all to do battle with the Ingrow while I had my own personal battle home over East Morton.
More of the same next Sunday - perhaps via Arncliffe & over Darnbrook to Malham & Airton cafe ? (We may miss the egg 'cut-off time' though !).
Other news; Nigel was spotted on the road having a ride to the Duckpond & back but he tells me the distance has unfortunately taken a toll on his 'saddle area' !
And - how is Pete H recovering ? Hope to see him back soon, after all there are only 5 more Sundays to the N.W. Passage !
PeteH says
Recovery going great - back on the bike albeit shortish flattish easy rides so far (could become addictive) - managed 32 miles on Sunday (Spen Valley & Calder Valley Greenways and canal bank). It took 4 and a half hours but that includes stopping to chat to people on 5 occasions, main difficulty is getting on and off the bike. I intend to get up to Denholmgate for 9am next Sunday and to have a potter up to Airton Cafe by the flattest, easiest route available and return by a similar route.
