Richmond 5 Dale Sportive

Tan Hill again ! -and in the same strong westerly as two weeks ago. It's 100 miles and Gold is set at 6 hours - a tall order in these conditions.
The route heads north from Richmond on quiet lanes to bring you over The Stang to Arkengarthdale, then right to Tan Hill for the first check at Keld. At this stage there are a few more wheels to share the work but its still tough going. We catch Dougie and Martin Croft who decide to let us go, obviously trying to enjoy their day out.
Birkdale Moor over to Nateby and we grip the bars tight on the exposed descent - not a day for deep section rims. The wind is kind to Garsdale and then blasts us down to Hawes for the next check.
The 80 mile route goes straight back to Richmond but we turn right up the steep side of Fleet Moss which, thankfully, is reasonably sheltered.
The fun starts down Langstrothdale with the sun coming out and a howling tail wind and I am on my own. After the check at Kettlewell the fun stops because we go over Park Rash with 80 hard miles in the legs - I catch a young guy and persuade him that Gold is still possible so we grind it out together and then fly down Coverdale with the tail wind - fantastic and almost car-free !
Left in Middleham up to Leyburn and then its painfully lumpy over to Swaledale and my legs are complaining. To make matters worse my new friends computer just clicked over 6 hours so he stops working and leaves it to me.
I get my print-out at the HQ showing I managed Gold but I am more in need of the chilli & rice.
This is a well organised event and they allow you the option of chosing the 50 or 80 mile return at the check points - which many chose to do on such a hard day.
Just over 100 riders did the 100 mile event with only 6 inside the 6 hours. I was pleased with 5 hours 48 mins. and 3rd position. The fastest was 12 minutes quicker than me (but the 2nd only 2 seconds quicker !).
Martin Croft 6 hours 21 mins and Dougie Burnside 6 hours 43 for silver.

Sunday 22nd May report

Gale force winds, hail & rain failed to deter the Condor hard men last Sunday (although it did reduce mileage somewhat). Seven made their way to Hellifield Railway Station cafe via Keighley, Broughton & Airton. On the road to Otterburn, prompted by a downpour, I made the mistake of stopping to don my rainjacket; big mistake, should have known better, the positive was that after several miles battling alone into a fierce headwind it was none other than The Condor himself who dropped back to help me reclaim the comfort of the peloton.

What a star that chap at the cafe is, coping alone he soon delivered steaming teapots and sandwiches stuffed to overflowing with sausages -just the job for hungry athletes.

We were on the road again before mid-day, into gusting, heavy showers on the road to West Marton and Earby. The cunning plan had been to follow in reverse the Spring into the Dales route over Bleara Moor and Black Lane Ends to the Herders and Oxenhope. However, group negligence allowed Robin & Mel to go to the front together and by Thornton-in Craven I had lost the necessary enthusiasm for getting hammered into the ground over that hill out of Earby so I announced that I was going to go around the hill via Foulridge to get to Laneshaw Bridge. Nigel was all for it but Mel and Robin were keen to gain altitude points. I was at the front with Mel at Earby when as expected he turned left for the high road. Ian came alongside me and we battled against head winds and very heavy rain as Ian remarked on how aptly named Foulridge is. At this point I was surprised when Robin came through to the front - he should'nt be there, he'd turned off at Earby with Mel hadn't he?. Glancing back confirmed that only Mel alone had left the safety of the bunch to tackle the high road. Once we got to Laneshaw Bridge we caught sight of Mel a few hundred yards up the Herders Climb. Robin shot off like a man possessed and soon caught him, at one point I thought Nigel was also going to chase, but he soon saw sense as we all settled into a more realistic rhythm. Richard was riding well, as he had been all day, Ian's new Dogma was effortlessly floating higher and higher, and Steve, 1st time out for many months due to being busy building a new wing onto Pecket Well Palace, was looking very strong.

We re-grouped over the top and split up at Oxenhope where Richard, Mel and myself were caught up in a torrential downpour going over the Dog & Gun climb, at least it was on our backs, if the others had the same shower it must have been hell riding into it.

Sunday 22nd May - cafe run

Here is a photo link: http://www.sportsunday.co.uk/photo10053194.html showing Melv & Neil in the midst of their enjoyment over Tan Hill. In a word, that etape ride looked "grim". Chapeau to all you chaps for suffering it.
I'd suggest a more reasonable potter this week to some nice cafe (ideally with doilies and a tablecloth) for cake and a pot of tea. Locally. In the sunshine. Lets meet 9am Denholme & 9:30 Keighley.

Etape du Dales

I always seem to be more apprehensive about this event than any other. I am familiar with the severity of the route but add in the invariably poor weather and it can be a painfull day - and as I watched the weather deteroriate over the previous week I wasn't happy.
Even opting for knee-lengths and long sleeves it looked like overshoes and gloves were in order - rolling out with Neil and Robin, Grimpy having failed to re-appear after confessing to some difficulties in the toilet department. Richard elected to do his own ride and 'enjoy' it. Joining us was Roger Palfreeman who some may remember from his early days in Calderdale - his close encounter at speed with a sheep down Blackstone Edge was a memory that kept coming back on some of the days hairy descents.
Despite the cold and wind it wasn't bad on the road with Fleet Moss, Buttertubs and Low Row not so exposed to it. Tan Hill got harder as we dragged the usual accumulated group of 20 or so up that long and exposed hideous road.
Despite making a quick stop at Tan Hill for a sarnie we were cold by Keld and faced the delights of Birkdale Moor as a light rain started. At this point Robins legs decided to give out and he silently disappeared. We expected his appearance at Nateby after his usual manic descending but with no sign - and also no reports of an incident, we pushed on with Roger who set a blistering pace up to Garsdale as the wind came to our backs.
Thankfully Roger caught his wife at the feed station and opted to ride back with her so Neil and I tackled the Coal Road in the mist and rain with Neil now complaining about cramp, amongst numerous other things. Through the mist I could see Peeps in front climbing strongly so I pushed on,
hoping that under 7 hours was still possible for a Gold.
The wind was kinder down Ribblesdale and a belting tail wind over to Halton Gill and down Littlondale helped me back faster than last year with Neil in not far behind for Gold as well.
Robin rode back with Roger and wife - and Roger, being a sport doctor explained that Robin's leg problems were due to him running in a race last weekend - I don't think that diagnosis required a doctor !
Nice to see Pete and Mick Collins at the finish - they had a civilised ride to Feizor Tea Room - now that seems a wise way to spend a Sunday !
TIMES:
Fastest - Harrogate Nova Trio - 6.20
Mel - 6.41.39 14th / Neil - 6.49.07 23rd
Robin - 7.07.20 / Peeps - 7.42.18 / Grimpy - 7.48.14 / Richard - 7.54.53


Grimpy's First Sportive - THE TRUE STORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! From the man himself

A bit of a start cock up been up all night unable to go to the loo
Finally made it after long delay at start following signing on and then returning for my tag.
Having missed all the fast star club members I start on my own around 8.05 deciding in my state to see how i feel and if possible enjoy the countryside on roads new to me.
I had leg warmers 2 undervests, a jersey, arm warmers, overshoes & 2 gillets + mits ( no gloves- mistake) but I was still cold.
A number of fastmen passed me and I decided to latch onto a group led by a young roadman from I think a Fred Minter Club?
Bronze legs, shorts looking cool as we approached fleet moss he was overheating so he removes his top jersey on the move whilst wandering from side to side -- I couldn't believe it? Then ahead of us one rider just fell off his bike for no apparent reason maybe he missed a gear
I took it steady down fleet moss and never saw this group again.
As an aside I was surprised the number of riders going back to grassington all the way from fleet moss to buttertubs many just in jerseys & shorts?
I took a short break at Hawes you then climb Buttertubs and at Low Row take a left up the first steep climb.
A few were walking but I managed ok decended to the ford and walk over the bridge.
Then it was upwards & onwards to the top of Tan Hill into the headwind. Dave Smith explained to me a week earlier that it was a long drag, your not kidding.
Stopped for some food waiting in line for promised hot goodies.
But after sometime the queue didn't subside so eventualy i grab a banana and proceeded on my happy way. What a view?
Took it steady down to lower ground the weather began to get better? it started to rain, i stopped at the village before Nateby to gaze at the water cascades ( quite impressive)?
I then latched onto a group with there own support vehicle, the vehicle kept stopping to take action shots asking me to politely piss off which i duly did.
Three miles before Nateby I noted that we entered Cumbria,
At Nateby you turn South to begin the return to Grassington with a nice cross wind and heavier rain (the least scenic section)
I arrived at the Moorcock Inn check point (69 mile ?) to be greated by nice ladies with sandwiches; scoffed them and set off again.
After a short distance the turn off to Garsdale Station appeared --whoops this looks steep, it turn out to be the famous coal road but it was made easier by the tail gale wind.Lots of signs advising you to smile for action picture. Sure enough at the top of the hill through the low cloud a camera man appears with what looked like a home made lens cover i duly smiled and slowed down so he could take two flash actions shots checking he got me I started the steep decent and as usual I was passed by serious descenders.
Up through the viaduct to Newby Head I pass a struggling heavy set guy in blue racing gear and then turn right into the head wind with rain driving straight through me, the temperature seems to be getting lower and I'm freezing.
To my amazement the guy in blue catches me and says do you know Ian Robinson? whoops he's on my wheel for the next few miles and as we take a left at ribblehead he apologises for not being able to come through - most unusual?
After over 60 miles riding on new roads i am am now on familier ground joining the three peaks route to Horton in Ribbledale.
First rise and the man in blue goes backwards I am then joined by a young scouser and we make tracks to Stainforth into more driving rain.
I arrive at Stainforth approached by tag collectors, these guys and girls are quick to take your tag to record your time but don't realise it takes this old bugger a minute to undo his zips to get to the neck holding tag. By this time I am shivering getting and turning blue, so this time its straight off up silverdale and thankfully its a tailwind all the way back.
I arrive at Grassington freezing find my car key with the thought of changing in the car but realise this is bad idea, I instead make it to the changing room to get an excellent HOT shower and at last by blood starts to circulate again and I'm in one piece.
So this is a sportive I guess, excellently organised, a bit like a reliabilty trial, without the need to check directions and with feeding spots.
Though to many its just a group race, well its an experience I hope the next time i'm in a better state an the weather is more like summer.
Can't say its worth £40 but what the hell its for a good cause.
The Condor stars & friends did us pround getting under 7 hours in those conditions - rock on.
Special mention to Neil who says hes only been on is bike twice in 2 weeks and thats on the Thursday pub run. Also to my age group
Dave smith who did i think a 7.30, peeps who only starting riding again seriously 2 years ago? not forgetting Richard who like me went round on his own but unlike me as done less ridding recently
Cheers
John
END

Generally observations

A number of young girls

Sunday 15th May

Good luck in tomorrows Etape du Dales to Mel, Grimpy, Peeps, Robin, Neil, Dav and possibly Richard (who was going to try to get a late entry) - if the weather stays like it has been today it will sort the men out from the boys. Hoping to see a riders report on the blog tomorrow evening.
If the weathers not too bad I'm going to have a steady potter round the Pocklington Pedal course, a hundred and some mile meandering route round the Yorkshire Wolds - Mel did the Sportive a couple of weeks ago and recommends the route (I understand he was the fastest rider out of about 100 taking part).

Derek Smith Memorial RR - some pics

Don't forget - if you click on a photo you can see a larger image

Imps Road Race -Derek Smith Memorial.

I found a link at the bottom of the Imps website results page showing my last road race was the Australian pursuits in 2002 - 9 years later I am back on the same circuit, not knowing what to expect.
Finding myself in a break of 6 on the first lap I just went with it, until my legs were screaming just too much, not being used to riding at this tempo for so long. The last time up Turbury Lane, as riders started jousting, I decided 6th position wasn't a bad result and sat up to let the pain subside.
My apologies to Pete and others anxiously waiting for me to take the last bend and launch up to the line in first place, like the old days.
Congratulations to fellow Condors- Brian 1st in age group, and Pete Smith and Grimpy third in their groups. I was the only one without a prize.
Next Sunday I am back on more familiar ground, grinding out a hilly 112 miles in the Etape du Dales - no less painfull ! I believe Grimpy has been talked into riding and Robin and Neil are up for it.

Sunday 8th May

We have 4 riders in the Derek Smith Memorial Road Race on the Norland circuit tomorrow (10am). I, together with other Condors will be up there to give them a shout and get a few photos. For full details of route and riders see the Halifax Imps web site - there's a link from this site.

mtb heaven

With apologies to Pete, we've been having a great time on the mountain bikes recently. We'd better stay off any footpaths though.
The western section took to the knobbly tyres on Wednesday for an evening run. Setting off in sunshine and finishing well after sunset. Actually we sat waiting and watching the setting sun from the trig point on High Brown Knoll while Robin whizzed back and forth looking for the rest of our small group (we'd sneaked a shortcut while he had bombed ahead like an excitable spaniel). Then down Limer's Gate, Grain Water Bridge, Poo Barn, Walshaw, Gibson Mill, Sandy Gate and back to Old Town as night approached. That just left Midgley Moor in the deep gloom and Catherine House descent by less than candlelight. I'll have to get some decent lights ...
Ian

MTB for sale

One careless owner.

Easter Sunday - mtb

The plan is a mountain bike ride this Sunday, because the trails are so dry and fast. So far it is me & Nigel meeting 9am in Wainstalls but headed probably across Sowerby to explore some less familiar routes. All welcome. ring me if you are interested and we can choose our route to meet up as suits you. Ian

Spring has Sprung

I liked the GPS plot of the route here http://ridewithgps.com/routes/334562 by "Mr Blood" which shows Cock Hill as the major challenge on this ride, and of course that hill is so good we did it twice. My ride was "steady" all day. Setting off right at the back I had to work my way up through the impressively large bunch. I found the Vicar and thought that a good pace to settle into, while Melv headed on up the road to catch the front group. That was the last I saw of Mr Hartley until we met again while he was descending Cock Hill going the "wrong" direction on his way home (so a third time for him) while I was still toiling toward the finish. Maybe Melv can complete the tale with a posting of the "real" ride, while I give you the social version.

Some wheels caught and passed myself and Richard coming out of Pecket Well going just 1/2 mile faster than we were and so, feeling a slight headwind, I hooked onto them. Sadly Richard didn't stay on so I left him and went with my new friends in a truly loyal Condor style. Taking this shelter to the top of Cock Hill, I then dropped away to Oxenhope with a couple of West Pennine lads and we thought we'd made good progress - that is until we caught "Bob" by Stanbury in his purple carpet slippers who'd obviously beaten us over Cock Hill (and in the end would beat me to the finish!).
Pete Horne was just up the road so I bridged across, and then Pete saw Everard just ahead so we flogged ourselves up to him too. Peeps was hanging in the wind at Laneshaw Bride to complete a quartet of Condors. Thus were bananas consumed and cards stamped at Earby. 
Stuart from Hebden Bridge (nee Bristol), being unfamiliar with these parts, made the fatal mistake of leaving his bike for five seconds while we clipped in and clipped up the road, so we had to wait and reunite at West Marton, which also gave Vicar a chance to make contact again. So on to Bank Newton for a short stop in the sunshine while Stuart fixed a puncture, while Everard and Peeps "pottered on". We caught them again just after Cracoe, and took the lanes of Thorpe at a leisurely pace. Thus to Burnsall for a very slow cafe stop, while other riders passed us by.
That just left the daunting Draughton climb, Cringles and into Keighley for the final control. Paul Hickey was outside taking sustenance but we were eager now for the finish and swiftly departed. On Ingrow I went too hard at the bottom and had to wait for my companions, and then I set the pace back down to Oxenhope. The early stages of Cock Hill were my glory too. But I'd done too much. The spirit willing while the legs weak. And no mercy was shown as, within sight of the top, these older and wiser heads rode past me. Smiling. The buggers.
Still, a fierce descent (with a tow from a tandem) meant that we four finished together back in Hebden Bridge for 2:45 or thereabouts. I understand that the front group had finished more like 1:15, but maybe they had been served quicker in their cafe stop ...

Sunday 17th April

Don't forget - Spring into the Dales - tomorrow 9am from Salem Community Centre, Hebden Bridge - 111 hilly Km - entry £4

Where is everyone?

Ian was wondering where some of the regulars were last Sunday so I thought I would update the blog with the result of my investigations. Enquiries have revealed that Brian, Grimpy & Pete Smith had opted for the easy option, instead of going on the club run they rode the Lindale Road Race at Grange-over-Sands. All three were in the over 60's race (Pete making his debut in the 'E' category - belated birthday greetings). I understand that they were caught and passed by the young vets but Brian and a few more over 60's re-caught the youngsters with Brian taking =1st in his category. When I spoke to Grimpy he didn't know his actual finishing position but he finished in the same bunch and just behind Pete who I'm told was working hard and had made several attempts to bridge the gap to Brian. I understand that Sean Smith won the 'B' age group in the same event. I was riding an Audax down in the Peak District but the less said about that the better.

Mr Sunter had warmed up for the road race by riding the Hull Thursday 10 the previous day clocking 21min 31secs (yes, thats almost 30mph).

The previous weekend our road racing trio had ridden the Barton Wheelers Australian Pursuit, an event that Brian won in 2010 but he was unable to duplicate the win this year. He tells me that he had more or less blown by the finish after he and eventual winner Rob Stones had spent the event working very hard to avoid the younger riders catching them. Brian took 7th, Grimpy 8th, I haven't seen Pete so I can't report on how he felt on his first race for several decades, however I did hear a rather humorous anecdote about how he was looking round for the bike checker before the start.

There was a good turnout of 28 for the Ronde van Calderdale last Wednesday evening including 4 Condors, Steve Cavell, Ian Wellock, Robin & myself. Pedalsport's Jack Clarkson took the mountains jersey with a fine ascent of Trooper Lane but he was outwitted in the final sprint into Elland by Mick Collins.

Fun in the sun - Slaidburn via Bowland Knotts

And what a good day it was! Just three of us met at Denholme (Nigel, Ian, Neil) and were joined by a fourth (Robin) on the way. Where is everyone? Can it be that this warm sunshine is keeping you all indoors?

Keeping to the usual back roads we made our way north skirting Setttle and entering Eldroth then left from Keasden over Bowland Knotts. One of the Orbea riders engaged the lowest available gear and kept to a paced which (allegedly) engendered no pain or heavy breathing while the other Orbea soared away lightly. My new frame, while very pretty to look at, still has the same old transmission which chattered noisily and spoiled the ride somewhat. I assume that no-one else wanted to hear this clamer and hence I was left to climb alone. We regrouped at the top and even spent a second to look at the view, before plunging down toward The Riverbank Tearooms for butties in the baking heat of early April.

Robin had flown the nest (he went straight home missing out the cafe stop), which left the three of us making our way back by the flatest route known to Nigel and conserving energy at every opportunity. Coming over the old road to home feeling "rather tired" we found 98 miles or so on the clock and a still-decent average speed. I had neglected the sun cream and now have a cyclists sunburn to show for my day out, though it may have faded by the time we next ride in 20-odd degree heat.

(I've borrowed the image from http://peter.chesspod.com/blog/ - thanks!)
--
Meet Denholme 9am as usual, 9:30 at Keighley for one last desperate attempt to get fit before the Spring classic next weekend. That's S into the Dales of course

The route this week is up for grabs. Preferably somewhere we have heard of though and/or know how to get to. With a good cafe of course.

Ride Report - Blubberhouses

For those not lunching with mothers/wives/girlfriends (probably best not to let all three meet at once ...) there was the usual gathering in Denholme where Paul Hickey called in, being the sole representative of the Imps run, and where Neil & myself sheltered in the doorway of the deserted Whittakers just to let a shower pass over. Then quickly on our way we caught Paul again by Flappit and were joined by Robin on the descent into Keighley. The dry roads said that the showers were very localised, and Melv was sitting in sunshine chatting with a delegation form Paul Milnes cycles, including the man himself back on a bike for the first time in quite a while. A rattling good pace saw us over to Cringles and Mr Milnes was ejected backwards "thanks for waiting lads but don't bother waiting any more" were our instructions - so we didn't. Draughton and Bolton Bridge put us in mind of Blubberhouses - with a stonking tailwind. Oh no I thought, we're going to regret this later. However I quite like that climb, especially at my own pace, and then we bore left onto Greenhow, keeping our height and adding just a little more, to arrive at the Stump Cross Caverns. The teacakes were "greasy" and the service was slow, but Neil enthused about his sausages, giving 5/10 overall.
A sharp drop down lead us back to Appletreewick and on to Barden Tower, and up on the Embsay climb. Sadly our one main shower of the day caught us here with hail and wind, the leading trio of Neil, Melv and Robin had plenty of time at the top to cape up. I'd expected to see them instead in Skipton, if at all, but they waited for this slower rider with kindness above and beyond any normal Condor outing. That left a short battle though the traffic in town and,with the main road cracked off, we were back in Crosshills in no time, with possibly a bit of a tailwind still. It had veered from Southerly to Westerley just when we needed - how often does that happen?. The usual road led us back to gridlock in Keighley, and Ingrow passed in a blur. Oxenhope and the old road home for 60 miles in total and another grand day out.

Nine at usual, nine thirty Keighley roundabout ... Ian is still on his winter bike on account of the Pinarello being outed as an object of 'style over function' ... so its hard and fast on the lightest bikes you've got ............................................................................................................................................................................................PeteH writes - I'll have to give my apol's for tomorrow but want to advise you all about Wednesday evening - Mick Collins and his mates have organised a ride in celebration of The Tour of Flanders - its 6.45 for 7pm outside the Ritz in Brighouse. You will have guessed that the ride takes in several of the local cobbled climbs and finishes with chilli rice & chips at the Clough House at the top of Rastrick. Retro kit is the order of the day (but not compulsory). All Condors are invited - they had a similar event last year which I understand was very popular. ps. if you want to order supper let me know and I will contact organiser

Whilst the traditionalist, stiff backs were venting themselves hard on yet another ride through Keighley and into the Dales, the Condor Off-Road Club (Luddenden Valley Section) took to the rich tracery of dry trails round 'ere abouts Hebden Bridge way, weaving in and out of this and that: sheep, hippies, ramblers, sheep, gates, sheep.

First insight of the day went to Nigel who observed how, when riding dry trails, the stones appeared looser, nay they became errant, dangerous libertarians, freesayers, Levellers, who without notice to their betters would simply jump up from the ground and irritate the steady, patrician, well-appointed rider from atop his hiearchy, with neither by-your-leave nor tugged forelock. So it is not only sticks that the cautious cyclist must watch for, but stones as well. We hastened to some tarmac round Widdop (as in pic) for respite.

Second insight to Ian, who noted how a mental image (in this case the bacon and egg barm held on promise at Heptonstall) can grow without conscious control, first in content (in this case to include sausage), then in size (to become really quite large, perhaps preluded by some cake), until finally becoming the only object of concern to a knackered mind (when riding up to Mays at the end of a long long stretch the barm had become to all intents and purposes a direct equivalent to the entire world).

Last insight is mine, commenting that the less you think the better you ride ... don't aim, don't steer, don't look at obstacles ... it was mentioned that if thoughtlessness was a qualification for riding well I should be just fine

So we went on, all of us that little bit more intelligent ... or less, maybe

Faizor Sunday 27th March

Pretty darned good day in the Dales; Yorkshire, particularly North Yorkshire on a bright spring day truly is ‘God’s own County’ I joined the three Petes, Stu originally from Bristol, Melvyn, Mick Collins, and Single Simon (sorry Simon don’t know your second name) at Keighley, we then proceeded through Gargrave and Airton towards the promise of bacon sausage and egg sandwiches at the intriguingly named hamlet of Faizor. We had Paul G and Paul H for company until Skipton and Brain until Airton where he turned. We then made our way through Malham up west of the Cove and over to Silverdale where we turned left and dropped down in to Stainforth. At this point we lost Simon who had to return home alone, single speed when he shipped his chain and managed to bend his rear mech hanger Faizor for those not in the know is about three miles north west of Settle at the end of a no through road, it might accurately be described as off the beaten track; little wonder then that this was the first visit for all except Pete H. We approached using a short cut over a rough track and dropped in to the village; the café and the staff exceeded expectations.

As we sat outdoors taking in the heat of the early spring sun life was good; so good indeed that we found it difficult to leave, however after Pete H and Mick had fortified themselves with apple crumble (who would have thought it on a bike ride) we readied ourselves for the journey home. As ever, for me, it was a battle for survival; I believe our route was through Wigglesworth and Paythorne however by the time we reached Gisburn I was ready for my own company and my own pace so I headed towards Skipton on the A59 whilst the bulk of the ride made their way home through Laneshaw Bridge and over Herders. Melvyn returned in the same direction as me but I didn’t see too much of him after the first couple of hundred yards; he did look round to see where I was at the top of the first drag but I waved on his way and thankfully he got the message. Postscript: Pete H had suggested that his route home might be quicker and he might well have been right. As I approached Queensbury having stowed my bike in my car at Denholme I noticed Pete H and Pete (?) ahead of me; unfortunately I was unable to berate them for riding two abreast as they took a left fork before I caught them - bugger! PS I believe Pete has some photo's that he plans to upload

PeteH writes - What we didn't know was that PaulG had punctured on that pothole on the Gargrave road, the one that most of us hit whilst we were in a lineout behind Mel. Fortunatly Paul Hickey was more observant and stopped with Paul whilst repairs were made, they then made their way to Airton cafe.

After the cafe stop we had made our way to Wigglesworth not by the convensional route but by a scenic tour of Rome, Wham, Hesley & Long Gill - about 9 miles of singletrack, gated roads - not one motor vehicle seen.

After Richard and Mel abandoned us for the joys of the A59 we made our way via Barnoldswick to Kelbrook. I could see that the boys were getting bored with fast smooth roads so we took to the back lanes again and went to Laneshaw Bridge over the hills and through the 50yard ford by the golf course. Stu from Bristol (AKA Stu from Hebden Bridge) had been strong all day but was now feeling the distance and dropped off the back. Pete Smith suddenly remembered that he needed some speed work prior to pinning a number on next weekend (the first time for over 25 years) so he went for the Herders prime.

We regrouped at the top and pottered on to Stanbury expecting Stu to catch up - he failed to appear, Pete W volunteered to wait.

Great route, excellent cafe, good weather - halcyon days.

Sunday 27th Reminder

Its back to 9am Denholmgate or 9.30 at Keighley roundabout tomorrow with the intention of lunching at Feizor.
Don't forget that clocks go forward tonight.

Race Report

Whilst most of us were enjoying a springtime saunter around and about Bowland and Glasson Docks the hard men were down in Leicestershire riding the LVRC Fleche Waltonne road race. You probably won't be surprised to hear that Brian and Grimpy were 1st & 2nd in their age group. Brian tells me he almost missed the break which went on the first of five 10 mile laps. He was daydreaming at the back of the peloton and didn't see 5 riders clip off the front. However once he realised what was happening he bridged the gap alone - he was the only 'F' category rider in the break. Grimpy won the sprint from the chasing group making it a one/two for the boys in blue.

Just a reminder - Spring into the Dales - Sunday 17th April

If you fancy a change of scenery before the Dales I thought I might ride the Sheffrec Full Monty 200k on 10th April, its a circuit of the Peak District from Malin Bridge, north of Sheffield.
There's also a couple of 100k Audax's from Marple on Weds 13th.

Red Rose Ride

Sunday sermon was again taken from the book of Audax and a congregation of almost 60 riders departed the aptly named 'Oddfellows' Rooms in Halifax to seek the light (the light being the Lantern O'er Lune Cafe in Glasson Dock).

Fine weather the day before had tempted several of us onto our best bikes and we were quietly optimistic, setting off in cold but dry conditions although a chance of rain was forecast for the far West, however a headwind slog over Cowling was rewarded with heavy drizzle at Laneshaw Bridge which was to stay with us till the afternoon - the stuff that its not worth cape-ing up for but you slowly get drenched and filthy.

A front group of 10 or so arrived at Whalley Abbey where J Kaye elected to attend matins and a few others took bread. In the Condor style we 'pushed on' with Pete H, Neil, Mick Collins, Pete W and Simon who was suffering the penance of riding a single freewheel.

After a good pace over the Trough we were soon heading across the flats into Glasson where Pete H unwittingly inspired a 'Cafe Charge' but unfortunately the tide was in and being unable to part the waters we had to splash through 10 inches of flooding to add to our discomfort, Neil panicking that it may be salt water, set to attack his beloved Orbea.

Re-charged with chips and beans etc. we headed back discovering that the expected tail wind was now a persistent Southerley, nagging and chilling us, but by Whalley the roads had dried and with the scent of home the pace was lifted, enough to eject Pete H at Read.

Pete W then did some good work on the front which he spoiled at Rose Grove by sprinting through an amber light, despite shouts of protest, and leaving the rest of us waiting on red. Clearly this act could not go unpunished and an angry Neil charged off in pursuit banishing Single Simon to complete the ride alone. Pete W was reeled in as we started the descent to Cliviger and left on the front until he was tired enough to be dropped. Mick C's good pace down to Tod ensured Pete couldn't get back on and with a rejuvinated Neil we clattered down the Calder Valley on a road which must be up for the countrys' worst road award.

Back to the Oddfellows' just after 4.00 to the welcome baking and sandwiches of those CTC ladies, and the ceremonious breaking of the skin on a rather fine home made rice pudding.

Hear endeth Sundays lesson. Praise be to Chris Crossland and his team.

NEXT WEEK Pete H would like to share the delights of Feizor, near Settle with us.
The usual Denholme 9.00/ Keighley 9.30 - but don't forget the clocks change !

Updates

14 turned up at Shelf Roundabout for the Wednesday run, we skirted Bradford via Undercliffe and Eccleshill to Baildon Bottom then went to Otley via Esholt and on up Wharfedale to lunch at Cavendish in the company of Super Sid, his Endura team and other assorted British Pro's. After lunch we headed on the back road to Barden and Appletreewick where Peeps treated us to an impromptu demonstration of common mistakes made when repairing a broken chain.

After Burnsall and Linton it was full speed ahead back to the damp, cold fog of Calderdale.

Brian kicked off his racing season last Saturday in the North Mids VTTA 18km time trial. He's been grumbling for weeks trying to convince us all that he isn't going well but still managed 2nd place on standard, only 4 seconds off the win in a field of 83 finishers (if he isn't going well how must the 81 he beat be feeling?)

At the moment its a good forecast for Sunday's Red Rose Ride - 8am at The Oddfellows Rooms, Coleridge Street, Halifax.

Loops photo's

These are the photo's that should have appeared on the Todmorden Loops report

Todmorden Loops, 13th March

What a great day we had on Sunday, 1st class venues and catering and a route that enhanced appreciation of the aforesaid facilities. About 70 indecently cheerful cyclists met at St Mary's Church Crypt, Todmorden for a pre-ride breakfast including coffee & croissant's a' la T de F all kindly prepared by Danial Webb who was organising this Grimpeur Audax under the auspices of the Condor Road Club.

0900 hrs and it was straight in to one of the hardest climbs of the day, Up Doghouse Lane towards Sourhall. The double chevrons on the map should have warned riders what to expect but many appeared to be taken by surprise coming to a dead stop in the narrow lane requiring those behind to do likewise. Paul and Lumby had both ridden up in recent weeks whilst on recce's but both were forced to walk on the day. Mel and Chris Taylor were the 1st to the top closely followed by Pete Whiteley and Nigel. After taking a few photo's I began my pursuit over Crown Point, Deerplay & Sharneyford to the Lumbutts Church control where hot drinks. cakes and banana's were supplied. To my surprise the leading riders were still there, 'Oh no,' I thought, 'I hope they're not going to make me ride with them!' My fears were soon dispelled when Mel, Chris & Pete set off. Nigel & Peeps waited for me to finish my drinks and together with Emily, a track racing. time trialling triathlete from the Waterfoot branch of Manchester Wheelers we made up a sociable quartet for the remainder of the event.

The next major climb was from Hebden Bridge past Dodnaze to Mt. Skip. From there it was on to Midgely, down to Mytholmroyd and up Crag Vale in to a head wind. Although it had been rather cold and wet at the start we now had clear blue skies, sunshine and magnificent views to take our minds off the hard road ahead. Down to Littleborough and back to Lumbutts Church for more refreshments. Mel & Chris had left but Pete was still there; he had been dropped up Dodnaze and had spent the rest of the 2nd loop trying but failing to make contact and had now decided to call it a day; try as we might we could not dissuade him. I had 2 mugs of tea to wash down several home baked cakes and had just decided to try the coffee and ginger cake next when Emily instructed us that it was time to go. As always we did as we were told and set off down Lumbutts Clough and up to Cross Stone Church. Now it had been a long time since I had been on that road from Cross Stone to Great Rock and the sight of the climb ahead left me whimpering. 'Its not as bad as it looks,' said Nigel - he later apologised for misleading us.

The rest of the route didn't seem too bad after what had gone before - Blackshaw Head - Widdop - Worsthorne and a tail wind to help us over Long Causway (although it did appear to be helping Peeps more than the rest of us - good job he didn't know where he was going). Down through Cross Stone and back to St Mary's Crypt for a 5 star lunch. Mel and Chris had been back ¾ hour (1st back of course although I probably shouldn't mention that, it being a non-competitive event). Paul, John & JK came in about hour later - I'm sure it was a day that will be referred to many times over the coming months, enjoyed by all, thanks once again to Danial and his team.

Don't know whats happened to the photo's - I'll try again later.

Sunday March 6th

A return to meeting at Denholme 9.00 & Keighley 9.30 was suggested for tomorrow.
Slaidburn was mentioned.

Janice - Thanks

Oh this is a first but thanks Ian for inviting me on as I just want to say thanks to all in the Condor who sent their good wishes home with David on Sunday and also for the posting on here because that's where most seem to have found out the news about me.

I will get there just not soon enough - today as possibly been a better day.

Fortunately Ian I don't get downstairs soon enough to update you on Jeremy Kyle at this moment in time - hopefully I won't get desperate enough to switch it on in later weeks.

Thanks again everyone
Janice

Imps Reliability

It seems to fall on me again, as the Condor correspondent from the 'front' line - well not quite the front. That position was taken by better men than me for most of the ride - mainly Sean.
A strong turn out in Brighouse, which included some very handy looking guys, worryingly suggested that this could turn into another 'Batley Bash'.
The early selection took place on the climb up Sowerby New Road which was taken too fast for the first cimb and it whittled the field down at an early stage.
Despite Robin's and my attempts to take Cock Hill at a steadier pace the inevitable attacks came and by Pecket Well the road was littered with riders in varying levels of pain. Ian can testify to this as we passed him having a gentle saunter up the hill. I got back to Robin before the top, he had clung on longer, taking his body to places it didn't want to go and with the front group gone I was looking forward to a much less painful ride - that I might even enjoy! Imagine my dissapontment when, just after Oxenhope, the group had waited for us to rejoin.
The ups and downs from Connonley to Gargrave were painfully dismissed and then, much to my surprise - and relief, over half the group turned for home declaring they were doing the 'short one' !
Robin also decided to have his own ride home and just 10 or so riders headed for Airton at a more sensible tempo, although the lumpy road to Hetton is uncomfortable at any tempo.
As the wind came to our backs my only worry was surviving the considerable trademark 'stings in the tail' provided by J.Kaye with his usual relish.
The elastic started stretching on the Cow & Calf, and Baildon Moor and by Moorhead Golf Club it had well and truly snapped. Sean danced away with Carl (I think), the unknown fell runner, with Andy R (aka Eric) in pursuit leaving Dwarty and me to grind it out to the Pineberry, finishing around 13.50 and an average just over 17 mph.
In the pub I learned that Nigel had called it a day at Pecket Well - a case of 'Akbar's revenge' from an indian the night before. Surprisingly Neil had also aborted. However several Condor stalwarts had got round, Brian and Grimpy, Pete H looking unblemished after doing the short one and El Presidente was on his way back in.
Now then, anyone for a sedate club run to a nice cafe next Sunday ?!

Hey Mel, good to see the write-up, glad we had someone at the front (or nearly there) to do a report. I had to put up with some criticism for entering the 65miler rather than the 80 but after studying the route, the weather forecast, my knees and my birth certificate I convinced myself that it was the right thing to do - I was right - as I predicted I went straight out of the back going up to Sowerby. I was happy to be alone for most of the way to Gargrave rather than grovel at the back of the bunch although it didn't stop me feeling *******ed by the time I got to Gargrave - the beauty was that I had time so sit in the cafe for an hour, drink tea, eat cakes and chat to other *******ed cyclists before riding back with Everard and Damian for a very enjoyable couple of hours at the Pinebury.

Well done JK for attracting such a good field, I think John said there were almost 70 turned up for the ride and judging from the banter at the finish everyone had enjoyed it.

By the way the 'unknown fellrunner' referred to by Mel is Karl Gray, he's certainly not unknown in fellrunning circles, a winner of many running races and the current Yorkshire Fellrunning Champion - he also got under 6¼ hours in last years Fred Whitton which I suspect is the fastest ever done by a rider from Calderdale - I hope he enjoyed the ride and look forward to seeing him out on local rides again.

I hope that Melvyn still fancies a sedate run to a nice cafe by the time next Sunday comes around, looking at the route sheet for the following weeks Todmorden Loops a more restful Sunday will do everyone good. It would help Danial a lot - especially on the catering side - if you pre-enter, he's set up a web site http://www.todmordenloops.co.uk/ so entries can be made at the press of a button. Whether you pre-enter or not it promises to be a great ride taking you to places you may never have been before.
Pete H

Condor Road Club: Sunday 27th Feb

Condor Road Club: Sunday 27th Feb

Sunday 27th Feb

Anything planned for tomorrow?

Missed a few Sundays and a few Wednesdays and I'm beginning to forget what you guys look like.