After a long period off the bike, long rides at least, i thought with my first Saturday off for about 8 weeks I'd join the A ride to osmotherly. A bit of a come back ride of sorts so didn't know what to expect from the group and my performance. 7 riders including myself, Dave W, Stu, Karl, Graham, Kevin and Matt took the start. Dave was only out for a short one so turned back before we climbed white horse bank. That left the remaining six to climb upto osmotherly. A great road with great views in the sunshine. Stu was on form with the village signs sprints and the KoM I'm not sure the rest of us were really paying attention. I kept finding my self on the front not intending to sprint but had the sprints pinched off me by Karl and Stu. Abit unfair really I thought . Had a well earned rest in the cafe before the return to York via north allerton and thirsk into the wind. I thought it was an excellent piece of group riding to keep together with some doing more pulls on the front than others (ie me) so thanks guys. We even managed to up the overall average speed before getting back to York. A good day out and my legs don't feel too bad today
Ps and well done Matt for completing the iron man. It just sounded tiring hearing about it
Off the beaten track for me as I'd signed up to ride the Tour of Tweedale (Scottish Borders) as it was organised by a friend in the Peebles CC. Drove up the night before and was then up til 1am chatting whilst also drinking wine and whisky.
7:30 and I was feeling decidedly the worse for wear as I registered and set off around the 'Ton 'o Hills' as the ride was colloquially referred to. I fell into a group with 3 other riders and was finding the pace rather too much but didn't want to trail around alone - memories of Tan Hill all too fresh in the mind - so dug in and tried to create the impression that I was cruising whilst my stomach slowly settled and my head cleared.
The weather was fantastic, the air clear and the hills around Tweedale glorious albeit distinctly lumpy. By 30 miles I was starting to improve as the big climb of Talla approached. This had been trailed as a beast of a climb but actually turned out to be OK - more Buttertubs than Blakey/Rosedale!
The 2nd half of the ride was really great. My legs came back and it appeared that the others had gone out a bit too fast as I was having to slow to wait. The scenery remained beautiful, the weather clear and all too soon we were back at the start.
I cannot speak highly enough of this event. Everyone was so friendly - the Peebles club has a great vibe - with as many female cyclists as men and lots of children doing the 50 mile route. The feed stations were sensible, the food homely and everywhere good conversation and a sense of wellbeing. If anyone wants a lovely ride next year I'd recommend getting your name down for this one - I know I will!
by Karl and Stu. Abit unfair really I thought 
. Had a well earned rest in the cafe before the return to York via north allerton and thirsk into the wind. I thought it was an excellent piece of group riding to keep together with some doing more pulls on the front than others (ie me) so thanks guys. We even managed to up the overall average speed before getting back to York. A good day out and my legs don't feel too bad today 