The most welcome surprise of the day, was 43 miles from Freddie. Just 13 years old, he held with the front bunch the whole way with energy still left to race up the hills at the end. Great road manners and consistent pace... a hot prospect for the future.
Next, Gareth A, out for his debut ride on a (hushed tones) road bike. Yes, we were rubbing our eyes too. Naturally, a flattish 40miler held no challenges but he's out to build fitness of the road for extra strength on the trails. Great to have you along Gareth.
Naturally, with such a huge bunch, we split into two pelotons with Pete taking the quicker bunch and myself with the following pack including Barry (stepping up from G1 and riding well), Richard B, Maria and Hedley.
We kept them in our sights all the way to Smallfield.
A spontaneous round of applause en route via Lingfield when we spotted a couple out in their Ford Ka stopping and measuring the depth of the elephant-trap-sized potholes in the area. Extraordinary that the dangers of cycling on a January day like this were not ice or rain or cold but appalling highway maintenance. Holes big enough to swallow whole caravans without them touching the sides.
The temperature was odd - very cold at times, then the terrain or altitude would change slightly and it was almost warm.
The first group arrived at Chartwell Barns for mugs of tea, coffee and Danish pastries. Our following group arrived 5 or 10 mins later. We filled their conservatory (anyone got shares? could be worth while!) and the sheer numbers warranted the photo above.
However, the same gods who dish out the potholes decided to mess with us again hitting Steve with a puncture immediately after setting off again. No sooner was that fixed than pistol Pete had a chain problem. Those who remember Calais may start to detect a pattern here! Luckily Andre diagnosed it quickly and we were off again. John Mc also sporting a new bike enjoyed 'purring' over the rough roads and was at ease zipping from back to front (because he could!)
From Pootings, it was a joy to take in Dairy Lane, Grants Lane and Dwelly Lane before heading for home via Haxted Mill, Lingfield and Bones Lane.
Mini-groups split from the main pack and reformed all the way back but excellent good manners saw exemplary waiting at junctions to ensure everyone got home safely.
Good work from all... a lovely ride... we were back a bit late (2pm-ish) but well worth it. Thanks to those I haven't mentioned - David and Kieran, Alan, Ian T, Pete T and Kevlar.
Thanks all,
Adrian