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Sun Dec 9th 2012

Mince Pie Ride - 1*	1*

Leader: Steve Swanton	Start Time: 10:15 am	Start Location: WMP
Description: For full details of the event see the "Annual Mince Pie Ride" entry. The 1* ride will be a sociable ride at a leisurely pace leaving after the other groups at about 10:15 - but please arrive at least 10 minutes beforehand to register. We'll follow the most direct route (about 8 miles) along the foot of the Downs through East Challow on to Childrey (via the track and bridleway), Sparsholt, Westcot and Kingston Lisle. Everyone will be able to have a go cycling over Dragon Hill. Even if you get off and push, it's worth it for the fantastic views over the Manger and the Vale below. There will be a led ride retracing our tyre tracks back to Wantage after the meet for mince pies and mulled wine in the main NT car park.
Riders: David Bridge Janet Hammonds Judith Agnew Matthew Quartermain Peter Hallowell Phil Jeffery Ros Hallowell (decd) Sara Smith Stephen Quartermain Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Weather: Report: 10 of us on the 1* ride, Steve and Matthew just arriving as we were setting off. We followed the direct route as planned, stopping briefly to regroup in East Challow before joining the bridleway to Childrey, and then again for a scenic stop by the pond in Childrey. Here the 2(?) group came flashing past... After a very grey start, the sky was starting to clear and the sun even came out. We continued on steadily to the bottom of Dragon hill and then turned up. Everyone took the climb at their own pace, some walking after a bit, others stopping to catch their breath before carrying on. There had been a breeze in our faces on the way and this seemed to be funnelled through the gap between Dragon and White Horse hill, the steepest part of the climb, requiring extra effort to cross. After that it was easier up to the crest, from which the views as always were magnificent and clear. I've never seen as many cyclists in the NT car park on a mince pie ride. Lots of familiar and some old faces, many new. The mulled wine was excellent (thanks to Carin, Kerry and John). After half an hours imbibing and convivial conversation, I led a group of 8 back to Wantage including Andrew and Lyn who'd cycled out on the 2 ride. It was much easier going back with more downhill than up and a good tailwind. Back in town just before 1pm. Thanks everyone for your convivial company and a warm welcome to Janet. Steve S
Distance: 24.14 km (15.00 mi)
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Start Locations: WMP
Wantage Market Place; OMH
Old Mill Hall, Grove

Categories: 1* - Suitable for irregular, social, beginner or family riders, pace will match the slower riders. Not hilly or long. Expect rides up to 3 hours. Gentle exercise.; 2* - Suitable for regular riders who prefer to cover some distance but at a more relaxed pace. Likely to be half-day rides. Solid exercise.; 3* - Suitable for experienced riders, may be hilly, long, quick, or any combination! Likely to be half or full-day rides. Challenging exercise.; 4* - Suitable for athletic riders who can ride safely above the 3* standard. Quick rides for the fit.; More Information