A tough but surprisingly enjoyable ride today. No doubt due to the grim weather forecast and Australian Open Tennis final the turnout was less than usual. It wasn't really an 'Amble' today but a mixed Pacers/Amblers rehearsal for next week's Reliability Ride. The target was to complete the lumpy 50 mile route in 3 hours, (plus or minus 10 minutes), which we achieved. Although the rain held off today it was very murky, and the wind ranged from brisk during the first hour to a tree bending 45mph by the end of the ride. Luckily we had Paul Nicholas with us and he was happy (and strong enough) to sit on the front for mile after mile, a bit like a slimmed down Ian Stannard.
By the time we reached the official finish at Hannah's Diner we had covered the distance in around 2 hours 54 at an average speed of approximately 17.4 mph. That included a couple of short stops and the usual traffic lights. By easing up on the throttle slightly I think most of the Amblers group can achieve 3 hours next weekend. Out today were:
Steven
Andy H
Terry
Tony
Paul - Guest rider
Nick Langley - Newbie - rode very strongly for one lap
Paul Nicholas
Mark P
