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.
Welcome! For cyclists in Brighouse, Halifax and Calderdale. Training and club runs - with a cafe stop (or two).
Monday, January 07, 2013
Thursday, January 03, 2013
Tuesday, January 01, 2013
'9 for 9:30' - Kettlewell - 6 Jan 2013
This Sunday sees the return of regular club rides. It makes sense to stick with 9 at Denholme and 9:30 at Keighley for a few weeks - keeps it simple.
The 'A' group will no doubt want to go up to Buckden, while the B's (and C's) will be heading straight to Zarina's cafe in Kettlewell.
The 'A' group will no doubt want to go up to Buckden, while the B's (and C's) will be heading straight to Zarina's cafe in Kettlewell.
New Year's Day 2013 - a ride report
We did meet outside VS cycles as planned, but the shutters were down on the shop and a chill breeze drove us along the street to find shelter. So instead of drooling over the latest carbon fancies in the bike shop, we had to make do with second best and admire the lace in the window of 'Brief Encounters' ladies lingerie instead.
Pete Smith joined us shortly after the photo-op, reporting that 'just two lads' were to be seen at the Ritz. They would be coming our way and would surely catch up soon, so we pottered on and I grabbed the front to keep the pace under control - a move that worked very well, for a while. Through Huddersfield and in short order we were scouting Holmfirth for suitable (open) cafes. Emma's tearooms provided refreshment, but sadly won't be appearing in my forthcoming 'Guide to bacon & egg butties of West Yorkshire'. The tea was nice though, and at least the lightweight sandwich didn't hold me back too badly up the back road to Upperthong.
Padiham Chris thought we should all stop to enjoy the view from the top of the hill and let the fierce, scouring wind cool us off after the hard ascent, while he changed a front punture. Turning on to Isle of Skye road propper, Brian marshalled the troops to do sensible turns. Chris evidently wanted to study the scenery some more, this time with a rear puncture. Only Brian stopped to keep Chris company while he battled with home-made mudguard attachments, the rest of us being ignorant of his plight. Richard B eventually turned back to investigate while we sheltered in a shallow dip. Declaring all was well (or at least as good as it was going to be), we were released to press on into the slight draught/whiff/zephyr. Having done my turn at the front, inevitably the elastic just stretched too far on the next rise. Fortunately, I could then get the benefit of extra training alone without the inconvenience of my four clubmates to shelter behind. Names have been added to the book, should I ever get fit enough again to return the favour (unlikely at this rate).
They did eventually wait though down in Upper Mill, letting Brian & Chris catch up too, which took us slowly on to Denshaw and up & over 'windy gap' at Jn 22, where at last a decent tailwind made for a great run down the valley, to be met by many colleagues in the Works. Our cycling bretheren had turned up much earlier and selflessly waited nursing half-a-pint for our belated arrival. They then stayed sociably with us, and some even had another pint on the table as the main riding group had taken their restorative tonics and headed off for home.
Pete Smith joined us shortly after the photo-op, reporting that 'just two lads' were to be seen at the Ritz. They would be coming our way and would surely catch up soon, so we pottered on and I grabbed the front to keep the pace under control - a move that worked very well, for a while. Through Huddersfield and in short order we were scouting Holmfirth for suitable (open) cafes. Emma's tearooms provided refreshment, but sadly won't be appearing in my forthcoming 'Guide to bacon & egg butties of West Yorkshire'. The tea was nice though, and at least the lightweight sandwich didn't hold me back too badly up the back road to Upperthong.
Padiham Chris thought we should all stop to enjoy the view from the top of the hill and let the fierce, scouring wind cool us off after the hard ascent, while he changed a front punture. Turning on to Isle of Skye road propper, Brian marshalled the troops to do sensible turns. Chris evidently wanted to study the scenery some more, this time with a rear puncture. Only Brian stopped to keep Chris company while he battled with home-made mudguard attachments, the rest of us being ignorant of his plight. Richard B eventually turned back to investigate while we sheltered in a shallow dip. Declaring all was well (or at least as good as it was going to be), we were released to press on into the slight draught/whiff/zephyr. Having done my turn at the front, inevitably the elastic just stretched too far on the next rise. Fortunately, I could then get the benefit of extra training alone without the inconvenience of my four clubmates to shelter behind. Names have been added to the book, should I ever get fit enough again to return the favour (unlikely at this rate).
They did eventually wait though down in Upper Mill, letting Brian & Chris catch up too, which took us slowly on to Denshaw and up & over 'windy gap' at Jn 22, where at last a decent tailwind made for a great run down the valley, to be met by many colleagues in the Works. Our cycling bretheren had turned up much earlier and selflessly waited nursing half-a-pint for our belated arrival. They then stayed sociably with us, and some even had another pint on the table as the main riding group had taken their restorative tonics and headed off for home.
Monday, December 31, 2012
New Year's Day 2013
Best day of the week tomorrow for weather. I intend to make the most of it and get out for the traditional New Year's Day hangover cure. Brighouse 10am, Holmfirth for an early cafe stop then Isle of Skye and back to the Works at Sowerby Bridge.
Hope to see you tomorrow
Richard
I understand that Mick Collins and a few more Ritz Rebels are planning to meet outside Ritz at 10am for the above route - I wish I were able to join you.
Pete
Hope to see you tomorrow
Richard
I understand that Mick Collins and a few more Ritz Rebels are planning to meet outside Ritz at 10am for the above route - I wish I were able to join you.
Pete
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Sunday Final
The weather is looking grim but I will be at Keighley 9.30 - if anybody else can drag themselves away from the fireside and the mince pies for the final Sunday ride of 2012. Airton cafe always seems a welcoming venue in this weather. Maybe returning via Elslack & Laneshaw Bridge.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Sunday 23rd December
I'm still on crutches so can't arrange a ride for tomorrow - I don't know if anything has been arranged but not blogged? - what I have been told is that Rileys Treat is on for tomorrow and at the usual venue, the Robin Hood at Pecket Well. Unfortunatly I will not be able to attend so I'll wish everyone the seasons greetings, get back to my book and dream of the day when I'm back on the bike.
LATE ENTRY
Padiham Chris is intending to be at the roundabout in Keighley at 9.30am on the off chance that someone will turn up.
LATE ENTRY
Padiham Chris is intending to be at the roundabout in Keighley at 9.30am on the off chance that someone will turn up.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Wednesday Wheelers Christmas 'Do'
In my enforced absence Mike Beecham took a few snaps and sent me a short report relating to the Wednesday Wheelers Christmas Lunch.
The Christmas ride out meal for the Wednesday riders got off to a dry start with the usual indecision of the route (Grimpy favouring the more challenging ride via Windy Hill!!!). Downhill to Brighouse and a leisurely ride on the canal path to Elland, then over to West Vale. This is where I left the lads who went via Wheelrights Mill up towards the motorway then straight over Pole Moor to The Rose and Crown. John Lumb and a few other riders pushed up the hill from the other side of the hill to swell the group
The Christmas ride out meal for the Wednesday riders got off to a dry start with the usual indecision of the route (Grimpy favouring the more challenging ride via Windy Hill!!!). Downhill to Brighouse and a leisurely ride on the canal path to Elland, then over to West Vale. This is where I left the lads who went via Wheelrights Mill up towards the motorway then straight over Pole Moor to The Rose and Crown. John Lumb and a few other riders pushed up the hill from the other side of the hill to swell the group
I made my way back home to pick up the car, not wanting a wet ride back. Reached the pub at 12.30 where the lads had been sampling the handpulled for the last hour. An hour later, great quantities of turkey, beef and Brussels sprouts were being piled on top of the beer! This combination makes for a good ride back home so I'm told.
John Kay did the honours by thanking Pete Horne for the organisation of the meal (funny thing its the second year running he's missed out), then he thanked Paul Gower for picking up the money and sorting out the finances on the day. Finally he proposed a toast to our sadly missed friend and fellow rider Trevor Lever, a sentiment that all those there echoed.
As forcast, the heavens opened. The brave rode back, Derek Needham and myself took the easier way back on four wheels.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Winter Solstice
Only a short report about yesterdays Winter Solstice Audax - thats because I didn't get very far. As I drove on the M62 over Windy Hill at 7am I couldnt believe our luck. It was 4 and a half degrees and as morning dawned it promised to be a clear, dry and mild day. I met Padiham Chris in a car park in Bredbury, It was his first ever 200k Audax, he was obviously chomping at the bit and the sight of his 55 tooth chainring had me shaking in my Sidi's.
A full field of 75 riders were all excitedly chatting about the prospects of the day, the best weather for weeks. Chris and I were soon into our stride, rolling through the Cheshire lanes with a full head of steam and feeling stronger with every mile that passed beneath our wheels.
24 miles into the days route, now 5 degrees plus, a sunny Sunday and most motorists had gone to worship at the Trafford Centre. We Followed my trusty Satmap to a left turn at Lach Dennis and were bowling along without a care in the world when my wheels suddenly, quickly and unexpectedly slid sideways and I hit the black stuff. I remember thinking as I was sliding down the road that I hadn't bounced very well and when I did come to a stop I had trouble getting to my feet again, the whole width of the road being like a skating rink covered in black ice. Chris, who'd been a few yards behind me had also hit the deck but soon recovered his composure. I didn't, to cut a long story short I ended up at Stockport A & E with a fracture to the pelvis - I don't think its a serious fracture but I guess I'll be off the bike for a few days (or weeks!).
Due to the state of this road there were many retirements among those who had been behind us but Chris showed his metal, completed his debut 200 and promptly paid his subs to join Audax UK for 2013.
Normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.
A full field of 75 riders were all excitedly chatting about the prospects of the day, the best weather for weeks. Chris and I were soon into our stride, rolling through the Cheshire lanes with a full head of steam and feeling stronger with every mile that passed beneath our wheels.
24 miles into the days route, now 5 degrees plus, a sunny Sunday and most motorists had gone to worship at the Trafford Centre. We Followed my trusty Satmap to a left turn at Lach Dennis and were bowling along without a care in the world when my wheels suddenly, quickly and unexpectedly slid sideways and I hit the black stuff. I remember thinking as I was sliding down the road that I hadn't bounced very well and when I did come to a stop I had trouble getting to my feet again, the whole width of the road being like a skating rink covered in black ice. Chris, who'd been a few yards behind me had also hit the deck but soon recovered his composure. I didn't, to cut a long story short I ended up at Stockport A & E with a fracture to the pelvis - I don't think its a serious fracture but I guess I'll be off the bike for a few days (or weeks!).
Due to the state of this road there were many retirements among those who had been behind us but Chris showed his metal, completed his debut 200 and promptly paid his subs to join Audax UK for 2013.
Normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
3RT Christmas Tour
Sit by the fire and enjoy last years 3RT Christmas Tour
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Monday, December 10, 2012
Last Sunday
Turnout was down to six; in fact when I first looked out of the window on Sunday morning, saw it was pouring down and then received a text from Simon giving his apologies due to illness I could have been tempted to stay dry and warm myself. However as Big Phil was calling en route to Denholmgate I donned my cycling kit plus my winter weight rain jacket and was somewhat surprised when opening the garage door I was met with blue skies and even a weak sun. Things were looking up, Phil told me he was not feeling all that great himself so that gave me another boost so, after removing my rain jacket, we were away, battling strong gusty winds over to Keighley collecting Richard on the way. After collecting Mel, Chris and Mr Oakworth (I'm sorry to be so rude but I don't know your name), we had a free ride on the Paul Milnes train towards Skipton. I was feeling very happy, almost effortlessly gliding along behind a large group being towed into a stiff headwind.
However Melvin's legs were becoming twitchy, he just couldn't cope with an easy ride so we turned left at Vietnam Bridge and fought the winds ourselves through Carleton, Broughton and Bank Newton. We then proceeded in a southerly direction passing through Horton, Barnoldswick and past Fanny Greys to Barrowford, where, much to Richards delight and relief, we took elevenses at the Heritage Centre (note to Ian - you need to be there before 11 to have bacon included - we had failed by minutes and the boss would not deviate - rules are rules - having said that I must add that it is a good cafe).Once fed and watered we followed Mel on a direct route through Colne, up Church Clough to Coldwell and over Widdop and a refreshment break at Heptonstall.
Not a drop of rain all day, reasonable temperatures and a good route made me wonder why I'd ever contemplated going back to bed.
Next Sunday Chris and I have signed up for the Winter Solstice Audax - I understand that entries have now closed so if you haven't got your entry in its too late.
Saturday, December 08, 2012
Sunday 9th Decmber
A good turn out last Sunday so we'll stick with the same formula - 9am Denholmgate/9.30 Keighley. Think we will decide on a destination at the meet depending on weather and road conditions.
Friday, December 07, 2012
Trevor Lever
I think I have been in denial after Paul advised me about
the accident last Friday, indeed I had to ring him again on Saturday to enquire
if he was sure it was true? Normally we fall off and survive unfortunately Trevor
didn’t.
It was an honour to know Trevor, a guy who never said a
wrong word about anyone, who worked tirelessly for his community, club and his company.
I met him through his son Michael on those early Monday mountain bike runs and later
on the Thursday social runs. He then disappeared for a while due as I recall
with back trouble. However over the last few years, as he’s been gradually
winding down from his Avocet business he became fitter and more active. Indeed
this summer you will recall he cycled with Doreen on the tandum all the way
from southern France to the UK.
Trevor was a delight to be with having the unusual ability
to communicate easily with everyone he met. He was someone who just got stuck in,
typical was his outstanding contribution to the Condor Cross events. I recall it
was the first event we ran at Rastrick High School, himself and Michael decided
that part of the course in particular the start area was overgrown so on the Saturday
before the event they arrived with a mobile lawn mower to bring the course to
almost cricket pitch standards.
It was this attention to detail that always impressed everyone.
For years he handled the cross signing on, he was so precise, for example at
the end of the event I got the prize envelopes and the cash account -done. Likewise
he always attended the club a.g.m. and organised the agenda and the subsequent
report in his own amicable style.
We live in a world of politics, false promises and excuses
galore however every so often someone transends this crap and stands out- yes you
can do it and keep promises. That for me was Trevor who will sadly be missed by
everyone he touched. Like Peter said our hearts go out to Doreen, Michael and
the Family.
Tuesday, December 04, 2012
Trevor
Condor Road Club members will be all too aware of the sudden and tragic death last Thursday night of our long standing member, friend and former president, Trevor Lever.
After his usual Thursday evening ride with the Imps/Condor Social run Trevor was with a small group riding down Godley Lane on his way home when he lost control and fell from his machine, losing conciousness when hitting the ground. He was taken to hospital but staff were unable to save his life.
I have spoken to many Condors since this terrible incident and our hearts go out to Doreen, Michael and all the family.
The funeral service will be held on Wednesday 12th December at 12.45pm at Park Wood, Elland, HX5 9HZ
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| Trevor at last years Wednesday Club Christmas 'Do' |
I have spoken to many Condors since this terrible incident and our hearts go out to Doreen, Michael and all the family.
The funeral service will be held on Wednesday 12th December at 12.45pm at Park Wood, Elland, HX5 9HZ
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Bike Bums roadside repairs no.2 / Sunday 2nd December
| (Bike Bums roadside repairs 1) |
A massive turn-out of 18 were on hand this Wednesday to offer advice to John, when he was the less than proud owner of the 3rd split rim in recent weeks - the common thread appears to be that you have to be a member or former member of the Halifax Imperial Wheelers and the split must occur when at the furthest point from home.
All three split rims have been successfully bodged up using zip ties and the unlucky riders have managed to ride home - the morel of the story being, always put some zip ties in your saddle bag (or check your rims).
Sunday 2nd December May I suggest another attempt at last weeks aborted route over to Barrowford for breakfast and back via The Old Silent. 9am Denholmgate or 9.30 Skipton Road roundabout, Keighley.
Monday, November 26, 2012
GRIMPY WINS ANOTHER JERSEY
Grimpy's trip down to Warwickshire last Saturday was rewarded with another jersey to add to his collection of National and World Champions garments, that of the LVRC over 70's National Cyclo Cross Champion. I understand that it was not easy conditions. Much of the course was in deep mud, with a 100yds steep run up each lap — the descents were really tricky, with riders sliding all over the place, but with out any form of accident, such was the skill shown by some of the most experienced riders in the sport.
John took the title from former multi national and world champion Mick Ives. A great confidence booster as January approaches, when he will be crossing the Atlantic to defend his World Championship title in the USA.
As John was basking in glory in the Midlands a small group of us were battling the winds and squally showers nearer to home. The planned route over Sutton Moor was cancelled and a lower level alternative was chosen. We were joined by Paul Milnes and Des Fretwell up the Aire Valley and over to Cracoe where we turned right towards Thorpe with the intention of visiting Burnsall Cafe. However Des informed us that the Burnsall staff are taking their winter break so we did a left at Thorpe and made our way to Hebden via Grassington.
An excellent alternative choice, we were warmly received and fed with as good a bacon, sausage and egg sandwich as you are likely to get anywhere. I cannot deny that it was a wrench to leave the establishment but the weather was taking a turn for the better as we made our way down Wharfedale through Appletreewick to Bolton Abbey where, with the temperature rising and the sun attempting to push its way through the clouds we stopped to remove outer shells. It was straight home from there, over Cringles and down to Silsden where Mel took a left to practice his hill climbing on the Robin Hood. With Mel gone some of us may thought that we were going to have a nice steady ride back through Keighley but Chris had other ideas as he came to the front talking lovingly about his new 55 tooth chainwheel - how good it must feel to be young.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Sunday 25th November
Same again - 9am Denholmgate/9.30 Keighley - back via Herders and Old Silent as suggested by Mel - can I suggest a loop round Keighley Tarn, Sutton Moor with a cafe stop at the Heritage Centre, Barrowford.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
Condors with The Falcon
It seems the mention of a pint attracts a good turnout.
Mick Collins, Mark and a friend from the 3RT club joined Pete H, Pete S, Everest Phil, Padiham Chris and Simon- a late arrival due to Pete H sabotaging his new bike the previous night. (After helpfully replacing Simon's compact chainset for a standard 39/53 Pete left the front changer in the same position to ensure it ground away on the chainwheel and kept Simon's enthusiasm in check.)
After roadside repairs and 2 punctures we had a leisurely breakfast at Airton. With the late Autumn sun shining on the limestone landscape we didn't feel a need to rush.
A pint of Timothy Taylors finest at The Falcon Inn at Arncliffe was the reward for the lung-rasping climb over the Cove and Darnbrook. Settled by the fire Pete H was transported back to the seventies, the last time he visited, and little has changed except, as Pete reminded me, I am old enough to drink legally.
We dragged ourselves away after 3 pints as some people were a long way from home (Mirfield and Padiham !) and so we engaged a more 'urgent' pace down the main road to Skipton causing some stretching of the elastic on the numerous undulations. Padiham Chris finally lost permanent contact leaving Skipton and texted Peter later to apologise for this shocking display of weakness for which he was duly forgiven. (only because he has to leave home soon after 7.00AM to join our rides).A grand day out.
NEXT SUNDAY - I could consult my 'Good Beer Guide' or suggest a route bringing us back via the Herders and The Old Silent at Stanbury which is always agreeable at this time of year.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Sunday 18th November
Simon and I were very lucky with the weather at the 'Eureka' audax last Sunday, just 20 mins drizzle in the early morning and blue skies for the rest of the day for our 133.8 miles circuit of Greater Manchester, the Wirral, North Wales and Cheshire.
May I suggest a shorter ride this Sunday; meeting 9am Denholmgate/9.30 Keighley for Airton cafe (I've heard a rumor that if you get there before 11am you're now allowed to have an egg in your bacon buttie). It's a good forecast so I thought we could return via Malham and Darnbrook and perhaps sample a pint of gravity delivered draught at the Falcon at Arncliffe - yes, I think that sounds like a good idea!
May I suggest a shorter ride this Sunday; meeting 9am Denholmgate/9.30 Keighley for Airton cafe (I've heard a rumor that if you get there before 11am you're now allowed to have an egg in your bacon buttie). It's a good forecast so I thought we could return via Malham and Darnbrook and perhaps sample a pint of gravity delivered draught at the Falcon at Arncliffe - yes, I think that sounds like a good idea!
Friday, November 09, 2012
Sunday 11th November
Good turn out last Sunday, Grimpy, Pete Smith, Robin, Ian, Mel, Richard, Padiham Chris and a guy from Oakworth. We took a left in Silsden and followed the back roads over Draughton Moor but were greeted by icy surfices down the other side. We then took the scenic route over to Barden via Embsey and Eastby Brow, again being greeted by ice over the summit - far too early in the winter for ice and salt - some are still riding their best bikes - or is that a new winter bike Richard?
On through Appletreewick to Burnsall only to find that the cafe was already bursting at the seams. Deciding against queuing for a table to become vacant we made our way via Thorpe to Cracoe where there was ample room in the farm shop cafe. Once refreshed we headed for home through Gargrave, Elslack, Cowling and Oakworth saying goodbye to the majority of the peloton at various road junctions as members sought out speedier (and flatter) routes home.
This Sunday myself and Simon, plus possibly Pete Smith and Mel (although they may have changed their minds due to missing the closing date) are riding the 'Eureka' audax from Cheadle out to the Wirral, south across the Dee and round the back of Chester and Wrexham returning through the Cheshire plains.
On through Appletreewick to Burnsall only to find that the cafe was already bursting at the seams. Deciding against queuing for a table to become vacant we made our way via Thorpe to Cracoe where there was ample room in the farm shop cafe. Once refreshed we headed for home through Gargrave, Elslack, Cowling and Oakworth saying goodbye to the majority of the peloton at various road junctions as members sought out speedier (and flatter) routes home.
This Sunday myself and Simon, plus possibly Pete Smith and Mel (although they may have changed their minds due to missing the closing date) are riding the 'Eureka' audax from Cheadle out to the Wirral, south across the Dee and round the back of Chester and Wrexham returning through the Cheshire plains.
Friday, November 02, 2012
Sunday 4th November
Meet Denholmgate 9am or Keighley roundabout 9.30 for Burnsall cafe via Silsdon, Draughton and Eastby Brow. Return Thorpe, Gargrave, Elslack, Cowling and Slippery Ford.
Thursday, November 01, 2012
Condo Cross
Many thanks to the
great response and support from the condor and imps, I hope I can recall
everyone, Trevor, Pete H, Adrian, Brian, Simon, Sandy, Peeps, Pete S, PG,
Steve, John, Kevin, John P, JD and Gordan, along with Imps stars, Hoppy, Richard and Texan hatman Dave.
No major incidents, weather well some rain, ground soft/muddy just minor tumbles no reported injuries, considering many stars were at the rapha event our entries were similar to last year’s with 68 U12’s and 88 Vets. Everyone got stuck in erecting/dismantling the course,
marshalling and signing on. Plus we were able to witness when time allowed
amazing signing on tent erecting scenes (yes its goes this way, no it doesn’t
and so on-I propose back to the scout camp venue?)
Plus the kind
assistance from YCCA members, Phil Thackary, Norra , Fred Rothwell & Clare.
The only negative aspect was complaints to me from the parks dept. concern dogs getting muddy in the main field due to the ground being cut up? I explained that normally the ground returns to its normal state soon? staying cool - you can't win them all.
Anyway Well DonePosted by Grimpy
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Road Tricks
Impressive stuff. Perhaps Ian's off-road technique could be improved by riding his Pinerello ?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZmJtYaUTa0
Johnny Berry
Sadly I must report that our old club mate John Berry died last Friday, in hospital, in Huddersfield. John, who was 79, had not been in good health for a couple of years and had been living in sheltered accommodation in Elland. He had been admitted to hospital a week earlier suffering with shingles, pneumonia was given as the cause of death. The funeral will be at Park Wood, 11.15am Tuesday the 6th of November.
John joined the Condor Road Club in 1950, shortly after the formation and is easily recognisable in the above photo taken at the 1952 club dinner at the Royal Hotel, Brighouse (top right, stood behind Gordon Turner). I first knew John in the early 70's as a regular on club runs and and a reliable helper at CRC races and time trials. His bikes were always immaculate and frequently replaced (most of Tony Parrish's stable being originally owned by John). His racing career was more or less over in the 70's but I do have a vivid recollection of John riding the Otley 12 hour on the 12th of September 1976. It was a pig of a day, trees were being blown down and roads were being blocked and it was also the coldest September day that I can remember. Of the 94 entries only 28 finished the event (even B.Sunter was dnf!), one of the finishers being, of course, John, who just missed being third counter in the winning Condor RC team by 1.6 miles to Allen Cooke. I remember John telling me months later that he was still unable to fully open his hands, not having recovered movement after 12 hours clenching the handlebars - happy days - R.I.P.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Don't forget - 8am Sunday morning at the car park by the ford at Welholme Park for course construction.
Worried about missing my Sunday miles I've arranged to have a potter up to Kettlewell with Big Phil on Saturday morning. If anyone fancies coming along we should be passing through Denholmegate at 9am.
Punishment Park
Superb weather for our trip to the Peaks last Sunday. A small but select group met at Brighouse and went to Glossop via Holme Moss. After the cafe stop Brian and Richard headed for home whilst Pete Smith, Simon and myself headed over the Snake and down to Ladybower marvelling at the views as the miles passed effortlessly beneath our wheels. It was then everyone's favourite road, The Strines, as far as Lansett where we celebrated the social season by having another cafe stop before returning to Calderdale via Farnley Tyas and Almondbury.
Anyone looking for motivation to keep the pedals turning as the weather turns colder and the evenings darker should consider coming with us to ride the Eureka 200k Audax on 11th of November - enter on-line -
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/12-609/
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Condor Cyclo Cross
CONDOR CYCLO CROSS
EVENT WELLHOLME PARK
Its our cross this Sunday
28th October, we need your help to make it a success, please see notes
from Trevor and my News stuff sent to Halifax Courier & the Echo below. I
have hopefully sorted, parking which will be in works car park as last year,
showers available at Brighouse sports centre (still awaiting confirmation), I have
a meeting with parks dept. tomorrow to sort out course and hopefully toilets.
We also have a coffee van which will hopefully be at the bottom end of the main
field. Phill Thackery is also coming at 8.00 to no doubt sort the field route (as
last year) whilst we concentrate on the hillside and the viaduct top. Fred
Rothwell advises me that he will bring the prepared start sheets and numbers.
Trevor’s notes
John described the course which will be at Wellholme Park,
Brighouse. Two course building teams will be required on Sunday morning at
08.00.Team Leaders will be John and Peter.
We need as many members as possible to turn up on Sunday
morning for course building and of these at least 6 will be required for
marshal duties. John asked that all available members contact him very soon to
confirm their attendance. Full details of the event available from John.He will
also confirm if Swimming Pool facilities are available for
showering/toilets and also if we can use
the Bowling Green toilets .Trevor will organise the “signing on” and supply
tent, tables and chairs.
PR
A cyclo cross event his being run by the local Condor Road
Club this Sunday (28th October) under British Cycling regulations
& rules.
Cyclo Cross events are off road cycle events run over varied
terrain (grassland/tracks), mainly rideable but with some dismounts over
circuits of 2 to 4Km in length ( shorter for U12’s), duration 15 to 60mins + 1
lap. They require fitness and bike handling skills. Unlike our Olympic and Tour
De France stars, UK riders are not among the world elite as the sport is
dominated by Belgium super stars such as Sven Nys and Neil Albert (each said to
get £10K per race appearance), but this may change if as rumoured the sport
becomes an Olympic winter event. The circuits are marked out with poles and
plastic tape, riders are timed with seperate events for U12’s, Youths,
Vets/Woman & Seniors/Juniors. Yorkshire events this season have seen
increased fields of over 100 riders particular in the veteran races attracting
riders from all over the north England.
Entry is on the line, participants need a british cycling
racing licence or alternatively pay a supplement to the entry fee. U12’s entry
is only £1 with no supplement, they ride a short course on the main flat field. Normally
subject to entries 3 races are held for girls and boys U12’s, U10,s and U8’s.
In these age groups because of the flat terrain any bike can be used, so bring
your children along and try to be at wellhome park around 45mins before the
start time to sign on and practice.
The wellholme park circuit is a Yorkshire series event and the
course users the rear field beyond the stream, the wood hillside and the old
railway embankment. One steep climb which has around a 40% gradient goes up the central wooded
hillside, watch out for ex national champion Chris Young who was the only
rider to ride all the way to the top on
each lap in last years event.
Event start times and approx. race durations are:
10.30 Youths duration
30mins
11.30 under 12s, U10 & U8’s duration approx. 15mins
12.30 Veterans/Woman
duration 40 mins
14.00 Senior/Junior
duration 60 mins.
Why not watch the events FOC to see the skill and speed of
top uk riders.
We request dogs are keep on leads, any more information can
be obtained by contacting the organisor John Ginley on 01274 601567, Email johnginley@btinternet.com . You can
also check the
British Cycling web site under Cyclo Cross and events.
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