Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Ride

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Sun Dec 8th 2013

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: Jane Pearson Judith Agnew Neil Warner Peter Burgess Peter Hallowell Phil Jeffery Ros Hallowell (decd) Sara Smith Steve Burr Steve Swanton Riders = 10 Weather: Report: 16 riders set off on the 1* ride, our numbers swelled by 5 mud-spattered late arrivals from Abingdon Freewheeling. We also welcomed David and Sarah on their tandem making it 3 tandems in all. As we headed out west, the weather was clearing and eventually the sun came out, lighting up wonderful views across the Vale. While resting by Childrey Pond we were passed by the 2* group, and several of the Freewheelers elected to join them. We were to be passed again at the very bottom of the climb up Dragon Hill. On the climb out of Kingston Lisle, Jane's chain came off and became trapped between chainring and bottom bracket. Neil and Peter B assisted her and sent the rest of us on to avoid getting cold. Fortunately, they were able to fix it (after breaking the chain) and they all joined us atop the hill later. The climb as ever was tough, made tougher by the westerly breeze funnelling through the gap between Dragon and White Horse hills. Some rode all the way and others did as much as they could, all enjoying the views. A great throng awaited us in the car park and it was good to see some old faces and meet riders from other groups. The mulled wine was excellent. Many thanks to John, Carin, Steve and Mandy for doing the catering, and for all those who donated wine or mince pies. Five of us returned by the same route to Wantage; it's a lot easier heading back, particularly with the wind behind us and we made good time back to the Market Place. Neil and I then continued on to the Black Horse at East Hanney for lunch. After being well fed and watered, it was a very mellow ride back to Grove riding into the sunset. A lovely end to a memorable day. Thanks to all for your company and thanks to Neil for sweeping. Some pictures to come...
Distance: 25.75 km (16.00 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