The Alresford Groupetta Explore New Lanes.

Alresford Groupetta News.

Another great week cycling thanks to lovely autumn weather. The Alresford Groupetta very active with three riders clocking up over 100 miles. Cycmon is the winner of the TUK medal just pipping Gridironman by the mileage from his home to de Lucy Avenue!

Here is the Leaderboard.:-

Rank	Name	Miles.
1	Cycmon	137
2	Gridironman	136
3	Paddy	101
4	Andrew	82
5	PinkPal	77
6	Mark	0
	Total	533

Tuesday 29th September 2015.

Simon led a group of 11 on a winding route to the Cloisters Tea Room in Petersfield. It was a lovely day and in the sunshine it was warm, a bit chilly in the shade and at first most riders were sporting long sleeves. The wind got stronger as the day went on making it hard work on the afternoon route.

We left Alresford via the footpath which runs just below the dam towards Old Alresford we then looped round through Drove lane to head south through Tichborne. Next Hinton Ampner and Brockwood where we encountered some patches of loose gravel. We crossed back over the A272 and climbed one of the steepest hills of the day to Privett. From here it was an easy ride to the top of Stoner Hill where we descended into Petersfield achieving top speed and possibly exceeding the speed limit? I took over the lead as we entered the town to avoid the level crossing and then discovered my alternative route needed a slight adjustment due to the one way system.

The break was most enjoyable with a variety of snacks and drinks being taken. PP told us more about LeJog and we had a spirited discussion about the accuracy of Garmin elevation data.

Our route back was along familiar roads through Stroud, Langrish and the Meons. 

Here is Simon's own report of the day.

Simon by East Meon Church.

56 miles ridden today leading the Pedallers Group on a circular route to Petersfield from Alresford and return as phase 1, 38 miles, then about 18 for those few that hadn't had enough of a good thing (well the weather was glorious) round the Candovers. I can't really fit in taking photo's while leading these rides so just a couple snapped by others. Seen here riding my 1965 Holdsworth Mistral (model just before the Professional) exactly as I raced it in the 60's! The Bianchi Jersey is my 60s / 70s version - I've managed to acquire 2 Bianchi period wool jerseys in as many weeks!

Part of the group making good speed
 between East & West Meon.

Four of us did the afternoon loop from The Swan to Upper Wield via Bighton and Chalky Hill returning via the Candover Valley.

Thanks Simon for a well thought out ride.

For those interested in Statistics here is a table showing the problems with trusting too much to Garmin elevation data.

1. It seems that both Sarah and Simon were below sea level at some time.
2. Simon's and my totals overall seem close.
3. Sarah's for the shorter ride seems for once to be less than mine with about a 10% difference.
4. My maximum seems to be a little on the high side whereas Simon's seems low and Sarah's well understated.
5. Of course as we all recorded slightly different rides from and to home there are bound to be some small differences.
6. The profiles shown below the maps sometimes differ from the digital records. For example my profile gives a maximum of 692 whereas the digital record is 724. 692 is about correct going by the OS map.
7. The lesson to be learnt from this is that these readings are clearly not very reliable! Though I still think mine are the closest to reality!!!! 
8. Comments welcome.

Thursday 1st October 2015.

Simon's report of the ride:

Three of us managed a 40 mile ride today, Bryce led us the scenic route to Basingstoke where we had a rather generous chocolate and ginger cake plus coffee at the Conkers Garden Centre. We returned via Lasham and Medstead where I attempted a rather fast descent to now find that once again my Garmin failed to record correctly - looks like its for the bin! 

Simon resplendent in his Barelli
UK Race team jersey.

Today I did ride a bike not ridden this year my 1953 Claud Butler Avant Coureur Special, I have yet to restore the frame which will be a flamboyant burnt orange with black head tube and seat tube band, this frame is of bilaminated construction (false lugs - fillet brazed). It is my British racing lightweight as almost all the components are from UK suppliers of the 1950's. I was riding 'tubs' or tubular tyres which are glued onto sprint rims so you have to take a complete tyre in case of a puncture, any more than one puncture and your walking home!

It was a lovely sunny day and had it not been for the cool east wind it would have felt more like mid summer.

Here is my map of our route from which you can see we went via Ellisfield, a quieter route than the B3046, it also benefits from having a very fast and exciting descent to Cliddesden. (my fastest of the day).

Andrew & Bryce

I am afraid that Andrew and I were tempted by the siren call of cold beer as we passed through Bighton and spent a happy half hour basking in the sun and slaking our thirst while Simon continued homewards.

Another good ride for 50% of the Alresford Groupetta. Sadly the other 50% were busy working! 

The joys of being retired! 

Saturday 3rd October 2015.

Simon Turner
3 October at 21:03 posted on Face Book.

After a quick exchange of ideas last night for our ride today my initial proposal to drive down to the south coast and do 55 mile ride was kicked into touch, so I sent the 'lads' ride No.8 'A Quintessence of England' from Jack Thurston book Lost Lanes. This seemed to be the perfect compromise and indeed we had a really great time riding the route at a leisurely pace which allowed the countryside to be properly explored. 

The Red Devil and A Cool Old Guy.
Lugarshall.

Some 43 miles were covered and the essential coffee (or tea) and cake were taken at Coco Cafe in Petworth, a rather 'cool' place with lots of retro items including a 60's Vespa in the front window and inside vintage sweets and chocolates as well as cakes of course. I was dressed in my red devil outfit and riding my 1950 Bates BAR with Sturmey Archer 3 speed Ultra Close Ratio gear, well Ray Booty managed to do a 100 miles in 3 hour 40 minutes on a similar machine in 1955 (or there about) which was the same time it took us to the 44 miles! One 1 in 4 hill defeated us all - I made the weak excuse I was worried about breaking my alloy Sturmey gear by 'honking' off the saddle. Thanks Paddy Roadnight for taking us to the start at Liphook, and my thanks to Bryce Mansfield for loading the route into Garmin and leading us astray........ops I meant navigating us - second thoughts maybe astray is more accurate!

My own take on the day:

We had a great day, it was great to ride some unfamiliar lanes in the beautiful West Sussex. Many wooded  areas and great views of the South Downs. One lane very sandy causing us a little anxiety with staying upright and some potholes in places.!

Wooded Lanes near Petworth.
Can you spot Paddy in the distance?

Lots of  little hills and a couple of tough ones too. The roads were quiet except for the town of Petworth and a couple of main road stretches. Lots of other cyclists enjoying the lovely sunny day.
The woods near Graffham changed from sweet chestnut to pine to silver birch as we rode through them. It must be a great area for wildlife. Otters have recently been seen in this area. The Rother Valley is beautiful and a great area for cycling with many small lanes I recommend it to anyone wanting a change of scenery for their next ride.

I confess that I did miss one turn on my Garmin as I rocketed downhill at about 35 mph, but in any case we needed to go "off route" there to go into Petworth for refreshment. From there using my maps, which for once I had remembered to take, I led the lads through about four miles of lovely lanes to rejoin the route at Selham. Near Midhurst we passed the Polo Grounds.

Paddy tops the Black Hole !

The last climb from Milland to Liphook was as Simon says too steep for all of us at 25% and I did walk one short climb earlier in the ride when I totally misjudged the steepness and was in the wrong gear and just came to a complete halt much to Paddy's consternation who nearly ran into the back of me. (Sorry Paddy!)

Looks like a change in the weather this coming week, but hopefully my pals will be able to get in some good rides. I however will be sidelined as I am undergoing a second cataract operation tomorrow.

Gridironman.

Autumn 50 and 2 other rides.

Another good week of cycling for me. I think I have done enough miles to retain the TUK medal for another week. After my trip to France last week I was too busy to ride on Tuesday. It was wet anyway! But on Thursday 24 September I rode to the HCMF meet at The Brushmakers, Upham. I went one of my favourite ways out of Alresford via Ovington and Gander Down. Then to vary the route to Upham I continued through Owslebury and Marwell to Lower Upham and then back up the hill to Upham Village.

At the pub I found a modest number of riders. Most of the regulars were there and more came whilst i was eating. Some enjoyable craic before I decided to make the most of the fine day and return home via Bishop's Waltham, Swanmore and Upper Swanmore. From there  I took a very narrow lane over the hill to Droxford. The lane was very muddy and littered with gravel and larger stones so I was relieved not to pick up a puncture.

From Droxford it was a long but gentle climb to the top of Beacon Hill before racing along the ridge to the Milbury's and down through Beauworth. A good workout!

Saturday 26th September. 

It was another fine sunny day so I was very happy to be the leader for the Winchester CTC easy afternoon ride. I popped into The Worthies Music Festival on my way to the start to enjoy seeing my grandaughter Zoe taking part. She sang three songs accompanied by Tom on guitar. She did well.

At the start I was joined by Margaret & Paul, Gray, Steve, Ken, Lauren, Simon, Alan, Daren, Brian, Caroline, and two newbies, Kitty and James. As James is only 14 Simon agree to be his responsible adult for the ride.

I had chosen a wriggly route to try to introduce some lanes to riders that they had not ridden before.  Paul agreed to be tail gunner and off we went. We had no trouble in keeping the group together and I did invite the stronger ones to ride ahead up some of the hills as long as they waited at the top.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the route and all were ready for a cuppa at the GC. Some would have liked it earlier but "hey!" you can't please everyone! Five riders left us here to return home to points south of Winchester. The remainder followed me back to Winchester via Colden Common and Twyford using Church Lane to avoid some of the traffic.

Brian left us near Five Bridges and the rest of us dispersed in the City. Simon and I took James to the RV to connect with his mother before riding home .

Whilst we were waiting I took this picture of Simon riding around the car parkon one of his veteran cycles that he has restored so well. 




A most enjoyable and relatively easy day.

Sunday 27 September 2015. The Main Event of the week. The Late Season 50 Miles from Alresford.

A good number turned up to join the ride from The Swan Hotel. At 9.30 we set off and were soon streaming through Old Alresford and climbing up towards Upper Wield. I was joined by Mark Heal as the stronger riders pulled away from us and we rode the whole day together. That was really good for me as I could not keep up the pace of those youngsters. It was a good turn out for the Alresford Groupetta with 5 of our six riders taking part. It was PinkPal's first ride since LeJog and she quickly showed her form and finished over an hour ahead of Mark and I!

It was a very hilly ride with many small lanes with plenty of potholes and loose gravel to contend with. Once or twice I had to call Mark back as he had made a wrong choice of route and once we missed a turn and my Garmin told us we were "off course". We consulted the map and soon rejoined the correct course. My right leg had started to cause me some problems with pain in my thigh muscles when climbing, so I walked a couple of hills.. However Stoner Hill was easy compared to some of the short steep hills we had encountered on the way, especially those just before and just after Selborne.

The Blackmoor War memorial. 

We stopped a couple of times for a break and to eat our food we had brought, eschewing a visit to the Chocolate Frog which appeared to be quite busy. Instead we stopped for a food break near the unusual war memorial by Blackmoor Church. 

Eventually we arrived back at the Cricketers in Alresford at 14.43 a respectable time for an old codger and his escort. Thanks Mark for your company, I greatly enjoyed our chatter about many  matters as we rode.

Monday 14th Sep 2015.

At last I am connected using my Hudl and WiFi! Have no phone connection as my sim card does not permit it!
Have paid for WiFi connection in my holiday apartment.
We had a very good overnight crossing apart from a slight rumbling noise we could have been in a hotel with cell like rooms!
Bus ride was fine. Lots of maize and sunflowers being grown.
We passed a convoy of about 15 circus vans with huge American trucks with very smart trailers

Le Tour de St Antoine. Night.

Saw 3 kestrels and lots of mistletoe.
Had a beer and Croque Madame for lunch.
My apartment overlooks the river the view from my  balcony.day and night.

Le Tour de St Antoine. Day.

Joy to discover Margaret Rayfield and Paul are also taking part.
Tomorrow the cycling starts!

General view of the old town from the Tour de St. Antoine.

View from my bedroom of the railway station.

My apartment block.
My apartment was on the top floor on the right.

Tuesday 15th Sep 2015.

28 of us set off just after 9.30 to ride to Montresor to visit the château. Dave Pilbeam was leading with his wife Pam acting as sweeper at the back. It had been raining but the day was dry and the wet roads soon dried out. The ride was well organized with pauses when we took turnings to ensure no one was lost.
We were soon at our coffee stop in the small town of Genille. Pam treated us all to croissants, orange juice and coffee. It was really a second breakfast!
Afterwards we climbed the steepest hill of the day, needing our granny gears. A few of the group resorted to walking.

Wild flower meadow.

The country side here is largely arable fields with lots of small copses and in parts larger forests.
Plenty of wild flowers blooming , some in the environs of the villages were planted.

We had a picnic lunch in Montresor under the shelter of a communal building with proper tables and benches.

Chateua.Montresor 

After we visited the château.
This was very interesting as it contains a piano brought there by Chopin for him to play.
Johnston one of our riders played the piano. He was terrific.

The church seen through the gateway of the chateau.

Great views over the town from the top of the walls.





Interesting garden with two enormous trees.

Gridirnman reentering Loches.

We set off for Loches just after 3.20 and arrived back at the complex two hours later having ridden through the Forest of Loches. A much hillier route than our outward one.
Garmin stats for the day:_ Miles39.35 time 3:37:48 avs 11.36 climb 3021 feet. Max 28 mph











The camaraderie of the group is already very high and I am beginning to remember names!!!
Looking forward to dinner tonight when we will enjoy reliving our experiences.

Wednesday 16th Sep 2015.

It stopped raining about 10.30 so when we met at 11.30 we thought the worst was over. Big mistake.
Unfortunately it was another 15 mins before we managed to get going as some were still not ready. Three decided the ride was not for them. Good decision.
We had only gone about half a mile when the heavens opened up and we sheltered ineffectually under some small trees.
When the rain eased we got going again. We were soon out into the undulating countryside enjoying the views of the rain clouds!
We had another very heavy downpour and half the peleton defected to shelter under some large trees in the gateway to a large house. Beautiful cyclamen to admire while we heard thunder rolling.

Cyclamen. Lots of them around the area.

We continued when the rain eased again and eventually arrived in a small village where we sheltered in two small buildings. The one I was in was a shelter beside a water leet leading to a mill. We think it was the place where villagers used to wash their clothes. While we're eating lunch there was a huge flash of lightning followed almost immediately by the bang of thunder it must have been right overhead. We were all very scared.
We were totally soaked by now and had to wring out our mitts before eating out packed lunches.
Dave suggested that we should turn for home now via another larger village where we could get coffee. Possibly the most popular suggestion of the day.
Eventually we got there and enjoyed being out of the rain for a while. A hot coffee had never tasted so good.
I had got cold and as we climbed a hill I found my teeth were chattering! When our leading group stopped at the top of the hill to let the others catch up I rode down s side road and back to keep warmer.
On our way back the rain eased a couple of times and patches of blue sky appeared, this was just to fool us, for as we entered Loches it chucked it down again!
We arrived at quarter to five just five hours after setting off. Our actual riding time was less than three hours and we had barely covered thirty miles.
Garmin data:
Miles 30.13 time 2 hrs 46 mins. Ave speed 10.90 mph feet climbed 1762.
Of course now at six o'clock it has stopped raining and the sun is trying to come out!
I have only once before been as wet as this when cycling, when I did the Plains Challenge for Naomi House two years ago.
A day which none of us will forget in a hurry. The remarkable thing being that everyone remained so cheerful.
Don't you all wish you could have been with us?

Thursday 17th Sep 2015.

The forecast was right! When we met at 9.30 this morning it was Torrential rain once moe. This time we decided to just wait a bit. At ten past ten it had eased so 18 of us took the plunge (literally).
It was still raining fairly hard but within a couple of miles it had greatly reduced.
We followed the Indre river. This was very different countryside to that of our precious rides. Lush foliage and trees with occasional glimpses of the river. In one or two places the road was flooded and water was streaming out of the fields onto the road. I am not sure where we had coffee, but think it was in Cormery. All I know was that while searching for the cafe we managed to get split up.
Eventually we found the cafe and we were all reunited. The sun was shining by now and even my mitts had dried out.

Our objective today was the Chateau Nitray. It only took us another 47 mins to get there. On boy! Were we glad we did! Awaiting us was the present owner, he was very welcoming and soon had us gathering around a table in the sunshine tasting a couple of delicious wines and eating crudites, gaspachio and salmon in a lemon and fennel marinade.

Wine tasting with snacks.

This was only our starters! Our lunch which followed a little later consisted of chicken with small new potatoes and salad followed by blackcurrant tart. Of course this was accompanied by more wine.

Le Patron explaining matters.

The owner also showed us around the chapel, the courtyard and the pigeonaire. He kept us amused with a number of witty remarks and by climbing the ladder in the pigeonaire! It was a most enjoyable visit!

Le Patron on the ladder in the pigeonaire.

We set off to return to Loches by a different font. When we arrived in Cigone we came upon the other riders who had stayed behind to avoid the rain. They had decided to do their own thing. Several joined us for the return to Loches..

Friday 18th Sep 2015.

For once s bright sunny morning. Just had breakfast now getting ready to go to Chatillon sur Marne according to our program but that is about 100 miles away.. Think it should be sur Indre.
I have had a problem with Sporty's drive train. Hope it doesn't get any worse today.
Keep your fingers x'd

Further news of day 4.
Our best day yet, though we did encounter a couple of showers and as we rode the last mile home it started to rain again. We managed to get in by an open vehicle gate which is usually locked. This saved a few minutes which was good for there was a very heavy shower which would have made us quite wet.
In the morning we rode across the fairly flat area where a lot of the fields are planted with crops. Lots of sunflowers, maize and another which caused much discussion. I brought a piece back and have identified it as millet.
There were some hills too, but none too steep. We arrived in Loche sur Indrois on the stroke of eleven by the church clock.

The faster riders awaiting the groupetta after a tough 5 kms into the wind.

The cafe we had hoped to use was closed but a kind lady told us that we could get coffee behind the church. There we found what appeared to be a small village hall where we were served coffee by an elderly gentleman. While we were several villagers popped in for bread.


Suitably refreshed we continued southwards into an extremely strong breeze to Chatillon sur Indre. A slight hiccup in our progress when little Paul picked up a puncture . the group waited in the town by the river until he and his helpers arrived.

The River Indre.

We then climbed the very steep hill into the centre of the town where we arrived outside the Hotel de Ville at one o'clock.
We ate our packed lunches there before exploring more and some enjoyed a coffee.

Lovely Clouds reminding us rain is not far away.

We were on our way once more soon after two.
We were still riding into the wind for a while, but soon turned north.
A number of hills now and then down into the valley of the Indre where we crossed the river.

 Unfortunately it was Jane's turn to suffer s flat tyre just by the village of St. Cyran du Jambot. Once more the experts swing into action & we were soon underway again. It started to rain in St. Hippolyte so we sheltered under the church roof which had a spacious outside are large enough for all of us. A few more miles and some more hills later and we were into the outskirts of the town and then the mad dash for home!

Nature notes. A lot more birds about today, spotted were:
Swallows, rooks ,, house martins,, a heron and some small brown jobs.

One of several mules we saw.

Animals:
Mules, cows, one bull, one deer & horses.
Lots of flowers:
White & red clover, white campion, scabious, cornflower, toad flax, marjorum dandelions, various small umbellifers.
The company was great, though at times we were strung out over a mile or more.
This week has been like four all day easy rides with a wide range of abilities but no one has been left out of the fun & games!

Saturday 19th Sep 2015.

At last a day of sunshine and no rain!

Most of the group about to start the final ride/

Our target for today was the Château de Montpoupon. Our third château of the week.
Our route was a familiar one along the D31 for the first few miles, but then we deviated onto the D80 to the village of Luzille.(It should have an acute accent on the e but I have failed to go d out how to do that).
The kids among us tried to get the speed limit reminder over the prescribed 30 kph!
More importantly this was the place for a very good coffee stop at the Hotel Mail. More kids fun here as some had the joy of playing table football. It was not long after this when we stopped for our picnic lunch beside a lake in Eperigne Les Bois.
More kids stuff as a few could not resist having a go on the children's swings.
Unfortunately Dave had a picture as we were starting off so we all waited while he changed his tube.
Unluckily he had a second one very soon afterwards near to the Château. As we were so near we continued , he joined us later having replaced the tyre as well as the tube.

Chateau Montpoupon. 

The Château turned out to be very interesting. It had been a very important place for hunting of all kinds and was stuffed with thousands of items of interest.. Lots of pictures including many old photographs and other hunting memorabilia.
There was so much of interest that we could on!y skim the surface in the hour available. After leaving Montpoupon we rode through the forest before turning for home. Unfortunately w e managed to lose one rider when he missed a turning. Despite a valiant chase by another we failed to catch up with him and had to wait nearly 15 minutes for him to come back to rejoin us.

We made good time on our return journey to make up for lost time but we were still too late to get admission to Le Tour de ,St Antoine for our 4.30 tickets but 12 of us managed to get admitted at 5 p.m.
Marvellous views of the town including my Dragon Jersey in the window of my apartment!
A very enjoyable day!
Nature notes. Two buzzards. Lucerne crops in several places. Hemp agramony, Large white convovulus, old man's beard..
Total mileage for the 5 days only a modest 193. But we were sightseeing, not racing or trying to achieve a specific cycling goal like LeJog.

Dinner at Entre Acte.

We had great dinners each evening in one of the local restaurants.
Very French cuisine with more than enough wine and great service.

It has been a most enjoyable week despite the poor weather. I made 27 new friends from all parts of the country. We seemed to get on so well together with a good range of ages. I was the senior member of the party but Ali from |Scotland is only a month younger than me and at 9 stone he is a formidable climber. Regularly rides 100 miles a week.

The Original Pegasus Bridge.

On our way back to the ferry on Sunday we had enough time to visit the Pegasus Bridge in Normandy. Famous for the Airborne action that took place there in June 1944. A very moving experience. I actually can remember seeing Horsa gliders flying over us in Gloucestershire in that year.


A great thank you to Pam and Dave Pilbeam for their patience and kindness in dealing with at times a such a "herd of cats"! They made the whole experience a good one despite the adverse weather at times. Thanks too to all of the others taking part for their contributions to the fun and games!

I hope those of you who wish to do so keep in touch.

My Garmin maps and data can be found at : https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/905400576
This is for day one. The next four days can be viewed using the right arrow at the top right of the first one. I actually did ride about another two miles as twice I forgot to check my Garmin Unit was on when starting off.

To any of my fellow riders, Please tell me if I have anything wrong!!!!

By the way i can remeber all the names. In Addition to Pam and Dave there were (in no particular order):

Margaret & Paul, Marje, Meg, Keith & Carol, Ron, Ann, Graham & Isobel, Michael & Rosemary,
Louise, Ali, Johnston, Tim & Dianne, Dave & Jane, Anthony & Debbie, Linda, Karen, Carol, Paul (T) and me.!

GRIDIRONMAN

Saturday 12th September 2015.

This one picture really sums up the great story of the week:

Sarah ;  "I've finished, whoop whoop.
Wet and freezing cold but so happy"

Over twelve days Sarah and a group of 10 others, including her friend Lindsey,  covered over 1,000 miles from  Land's End to John o'Groats. Congratulations Sarah on an epic achievement. I know you all have had to overcome some tough days and have amazed all of us by your resilience and determination.

Here are Sarah's own words reporting on the progress.:

Day 1 Landsend to Liskeard.

Today was the hardest cycle ride I have ever done. The hills were awful. I came off on the last hill I have a few bruises but I'm OK. The weather was beautiful though it did start to rain at the end. Hopefully I will sleep well tonight but think it maybe a good idea if I take pain killers tonight. Xx

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/885102294


Day 2 - Liskeard to Tiverton
I thought yesterday was bad but today was a real struggle. I've climbed more in 2 days than I normally do in a month. Good news, I didn't fall off my bike yay!! Tomorrow we are cycling 92 miles, it's supposedly easier but I don't believe anything our guides are telling us.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/885863152

Half way up the hill onto Dartmoor from Tavistock
(in the background)

Day 3. Tiverton to Tintern. 94 miles. The morning was hard because of the bruise on my leg, painkillers helped. My bits are very uncomfortable and I've only done 3 days. We didn't get to the hotel till 7pm so it's been a very long day. Not as hilly as the last 2 days but still plenty of hills. It was lovely to seeSimon Hall today and bless him he brought are LEJOG jerseys. The last 5 miles uphill was hard, did feel like having a bit of a cry but didn't, I pulled myself together for a lovely downhill into Tintern. Thank you so much for all your lovely encouragement, believe me it does help. Love to you all xx

Day 4 - Tintern to Shrewsbury
Much better day today, still quite hilly but we had a bit more of a break between them. It was a faster ride which was tiring and my left knee is still giving me problems, the painkillers help. My rear is still a tad uncomfortable but that's not surprising considering the amount of time we're sat on a long thin thing.
I couldn't get my Garmin info up for yesterday, for some reason it doesn't want to download. Here is today's.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/887831250


Thank you so much everyone who has sponsored me, I would like to thank you individually but we don't have much time between cycling, eating and sleeping. Xx

Day 5 Shrewsbury to Preston 

Morning of day 5 is not a good one. The pain in my left knee has got worse. It's just as well there aren't as many hills. 47 miles done and we've stopped for lunch. Update later x


Other than my knee it was a good day though the scenery wasn't as good. Seemed to cycle between a lot of hedges and into lots of towns. We've been lucky with the weather again, a bit of drizzle to start with but then it brightened up. Guy our amazing bike mechanic is going to alter my cleats tomorrow to see if that will help my knee. Sometimes I wonder what the hell I am doing especially when I struggling up yet another hill but then everyone comes together to support you. It's a brilliant group of people, not one of them seems to be miserable, they are all so up beat. I then realise what an amazing thing I am doing. Tomorrow we go into Scotland which seems bizarre, to think I have cycled all this way already, wow!! We do another 95 miles tomorrow which seems cruel on a Sunday, so think of me when you're all having your lie in.

www.virginmoneygiving.com/SarahLEJOG

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/889031963

 Day 6 Preston to Carlisle
Beautiful morning, not a cloud in the sky, views are lovely. Knee is feeling good so far but just about to go up a very big hill which apparently you can see the whole Lake District from. Fingers crossed I'll be smiling when I get to the top.

Just got to the top of Shap, amazing, absolutely beautiful day

Amazing day today, fantastic weather, brilliant cycling. Struggled with the last 10 miles as it felt like someone had swapped my saddle for a brick. I have had no problems with my knee today which is such a relief.
I am eating like a horse, you get so hungry. Luckily I'm burning about 4000 calories a day so I can get away with it. Tomorrow we are cycling 109 miles going into Scotland so I may not be able to update you till Tuesday.
Thank you again for all your wonderful words of encouragement, you're all amazing xx

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/890400053

Further to Sarah's comments about stage 6 I thought you might like to see Sam's (the leader) comments.

Day 6 Preston to Carlisle. We barely stayed on the A6, as we navigated our way across 95.5 miles of stunning scenery, with a fantastic climb up Shap. All LEJOGgers absolutely smashed the hill. Great achievement on a hot, hot day. Can't believe we all finished at 6pm again, these guys are one incredible team. Drafting to finish at 20+mph average for last 5 miles! Incredible cyclists every one of them

Day 7.Carlisle to Kilmarnock.

No posting from Sarah but she had uploaded her map and data which can be seen here:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/891514475

Her friend Lindsey also posted this description:

Day 7: apologies for the late update. It's been a long day! We cycled 112 miles today with 4700 feet of climbing!! Took me a while to get going this morning, but by the water stop I felt like I'd loosened up a bit.

We arrived in Scotland through foggy weather, but by late morning this had cleared and we had a lovely warm day (maybe a bit too warm!) we've seen some amazing scenery and some really bad roads. I'm so tired now that I'm going to sign off. Thanks for reading  my little updates. X

Day 8 Kilmarnock to Inveraray 80 miles
Watched the weather in the morning and thought Yay!, going to be a lovely day but no, misty and cold. The morning was a bit hilly which wasn't nice for the muscles. I think they are shot to pieces after yesterday. Then everything settled down and it was a lovely ride in the afternoon. Not too keen on the roads up here, very rough. My hands, wrists and arms felt the brunt of it. Cycling round Loch Lomond was incredible, it's such a beautiful area. We then had to climb up a very long hill which wasn't too bad because it was one of their very rare smooth roads, it makes such a difference. Took some lovely photos at the top and then had an amazing downhill. Bit frustrating when we had to stop for traffic lights on the way down. Lovely to get to the Hostel a tad early for a change, everything always seems to be a rush. Roughly 70 miles cycling tomorrow to head for Fort William.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/892311008

Day 9 Inveraray to Fort William 72 miles

Sarah has recorded two separate sections to her route today.

She has not reported any other details yet, but to keep you all up to date here is other information:

First part :

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/893274572

Second part:


https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/893274633

Here is a report by Lindsey, Sarah's friend.

Day 9 : Inveraray to Fort William Three to go!! Today's route took us from the unbelievably beautiful Inverary to Fort William. Pretty much one road, the A83, but boy the scenery is just stunning! We were able to join a cycle route for part of the day. A totally different day from yesterday, thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Our stops were in the most amazingly picturesque places, the sun was shining, and the loch waters glistening. For a moment it actually felt like I was on holiday The sun is set to last until Friday which means our last day might be a tad damp - but who cares, it'll be a celebration whatever the weather.

Sarah's report, Day 9  72 miles
What a beautiful day, thoroughly enjoyed it. The scenery here is fantastic. Beautiful Lochs and mountains. The sun was shining. If I didn't have a problem with the pressure in my rear area then today I would say was perfect! Sorry no Garmin download as WiFi is awful. Hopefully do it tomorrow. I can't believe the amount of comments I have had, they're lovely to read especially the one from my lovely dad as he has a fb phobia. Love you dad xx

Top of a very big hill yesterday that went on for 5 miles. Very happy to be at the top.

From Sarah.

Day 10 Fort William to Tain. Just got in after a 105 mile ride with a bloody great big hill in the middle, so so tired. Shower, food and bed for me x

She obviously just is too tired to send more or even upload her route to Garmin.
I wonder how many of us could have managed what she has.

Day 10 Fort William to Tain 105 miles
All started well in Fort William, we went to the Commando's war memorial, took some pictures and a quick stretch, we got to our first water stop very quickly. We then got to Saint Augustus which was beautiful, we spent a little time watching the boats come down the locks. Things then went down hill or uphill to be exact. It went up in 3 parts which we didn't realise when we started. It was one of the longest steepest hills we have done. When we got to the top the wind was so strong that when I picked up my bike to move it it went side wards. What should have been a brilliant downhill was pretty scary as you felt you were going to be blown off the road. The afternoon wasn't too bad but it went on a long time. I just wanted to get to the hotel as the sun was starting to go down and my legs had had enough. Once to the hotel it was none stop shower, food and bed.

Day 11 Tain to Betty Hill 70 miles
Brilliant day today, sun shining, wind behind us (most of the time). Gentle hills and stunning views. Scotland is truly beautiful. Legs still hurt but that's only to be expected when you've cycled 946 miles in 11 days. Can't believe tomorrow is our last day, it has gone so quickly. We're cycling 60 miles tomorrow but it sounds like the weather maybe against us, but we can't complain, we have been so lucky.

Today I got to wear the UmBongo Jersey which is very nice because it was for my keeping up with the front group most of the time and my steady pace up the hill. Shame it's been worn every day by different people and not washed for 10 days, smelly!

Sarah wearing the Umbongo Jersey

Day 12. Betty Hill to John o'Groats "I've finished, whoop whoop. Wet and freezing cold but so happy"

Day 12 Betty Hill to John O'Groats 51 miles
What a day! From the beautiful sunshine of the day before to the dark cloudy skies of today and very cold. Coming out of Betty Hill and our first climb with aching legs wasn't good. The winds were very strong 40+mph. The first 13 miles to the water stop felt like 50. Even when we went downhill you had to peddle or stop, the hills just kept coming it was exhausting. After lunch we had the choice of going up to Dunnet Head which was again uphill, Lindsey and I declined and carried on towards John O'Groats. It was a shame that it started to rain heavily at the end of our ride. But it was lovely to all ride in together with everyone cheering. As per usual I had a good cry. 1000 miles cycled in 12 days wow!!

Sarah

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/896826485

To contribute to Sarah's Fundraising go to

http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/SarahLEJOG

Alresford Groupetta News.

Of course Sarah has won the TUK Medal with over 500 miles ridden in the week. I think with two weeks of over 5oo she should keep it in perpetuity!

In addition Paddy was for the first time over 100 miles. Shame Sarah beat him.


Just for the record Paddy and I kept the Groupetta trundling along with a good ride today. We managed 56 miles. here is Paddy's Report.

A great day thanks to Bryce Mansfield 20 years older than me but still leaves me up the hills. Recent LSD training is paying off as I felt quite comfortable despite the extra 20 miles than I had planned (Bryce had other ideas) kept Heart rate well under control. Back over the Fire track so the cyclo-cross section was fun. Feeling good. Paddy.

Rather small beer when compared to Sarah's achievements.

Gridironman.

LeJog. Also with Simon to Bighton & leading Winchester CTC to Curdridge for lunch.

Alresford Goupetta News

& Le Jog..

As many of you know PinkPal is currently riding LeJog with a group of equally mad but determined other riders from all around the country. This means she has won the TUK medal many times over with the incredible week's mileage of *****.

Here is our Leaderboard for the week with PinkPal way out of reach of the rest of us poor mortals:

Anyone wishing to sponsor PinkPal can do so through this link:-

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SarahLEJOG

For those interested in the mundane compared to the exceptional carry on reading below:

Thursday 3rd September 2015.

Simon joined me for a shortish ride to The English Partridge in Bighton. As it is only about 3 miles from home we thought we would make it a bit further. We did this nice little circuit  through Ropley and East Tisted to Alton and then back via Medstead to Bighton.

Our Route and data for the day.

The Baines.

Simon was riding his 1939 Baines, "flying gate". A most unusual looking machine which elicited a lot of interest at the pub.

Is this a real veteran cycle or is it one of Simon's own creation?

The Super Champion Osgear.

There was a fairly small gathering today, probably less than 20 in all. However it was good to catch up with a number of friends who we'd not seem for a while.

We only stayed for a beer and the craic before we headed home for lunch. Another few miles clocked up but nothing compared to the miles being covered by PinkPal and her fellow riders who are as I write this on their third day of riding LeJog and have already covered over 200 of the 1,000 miles.

Saturday 5th Sep 2015 Winchester CTC ride to Curdridge.

It was a cold grey day and I was glad I had opted for the long sleeve jersey and added a gilet.

For once I was without my best pal Simon who was busy with other matters. I rode into Winchester to lead the all day easy ride.
At the RV I found two Kens, Steve, Lynne, Caroline, Kate, Sylvan, Maggie and Alan E.

I had planned a wriggly route to add interest for the newer riders and to test my Garmin Course on my 200. We got along well, keeping a nice compact group with Ken 2 acting as La Laterne Rouge.

As we climbed Gander Down we were lucky to have a red kite circle right over the road. (Waiting to pick the bones of failed climbers?)

We enjoyed the lovely lane towards Upham with its arching hazel coppice like trees. We were reminded that for every down there is an up as we met that steep little climb to Upham Village.

A few more lanes and we were in Bishops Waltham to enjoy a coffee break.  

I led the group to Swanmore where we discovered the road to Waltham Chase was signed as closed. I rightly guessed that this would not apply to cyclists, in fact the road works were dormant for the week end and cars could easily get through too.


We were at the pub too soon for two riders who were not hungry so they left us to return to Winchester.

In fact by the time we had ordered food and enjoyed a sociable chat the rest of us were quite capable of tucking away a modest meal.

Here are my friends waiting to be served:

Lunch at the Cricketers, Curdridge.

I have been having some problems with my left knee for a couple of weeks, but strangely it doesn't hurt much while I'm pedalling but twice I got stuck on my bike when  it would not support me when trying to dismount and I'm so clumsy when I try to get off the other side!

Apart from the occasional bleep from my Garmin which I could not understand it worked almost perfectly and we followed the plotted route except for when it wanted us to go the wrong way through the one way system in Bishop'sWaltham.

Our route back to Winchester was through Durley, where Ken 1 and Alan left us, Lower Upham and Colden Common.

As we descended the hill from Twyford we were passed by another cyclist on a hybrid. I tucked in behind him and enjoyed the shelter from the wind to the Hockley lights. I chatted to him as we rode the cycle path into the city and discovered he had followed a very similar route to ours having been to Botley.

As we entered the city we dispersed and I was soon at my daughter's in Kings Worthy enjoying a refreshing cuppa. 

I eventually arrived home well before 5 o'clock and was soon in the bath soaking my poorly knee & enjoying a glass of Pinot Gris. (It's OK I did check with my FB friends that it was wine o'clock before indulging)

Here is my map and data for the day.

 A very satisfactory 11.1 mph for an easy ride. It was a most enjoyable day for me as a leader as we kept a tight group with Ken 2 making an excellent job of sweeper. My thanks to all

GRIDIRONMAN.