9 riders left Brackla this morning, including Patrick (sorry I'd forgotten that you were intending to meet Mal in Coity) So after Patrick dropped off 8 of us continued on in beautiful bright sunshine and blue skies, through Pencoed towards Llantrisant.
After an 'OVW magical mystery tour' of the trading estates around the Royal Mint I finally found the turning up to Pantybrad (its not as if it's the first time I've ridden up here
) then on to the delightfully named (on Strava), Dirty Lane. This is a tough little climb, although a little easier as the surface has improved. Quick descent down to Beddau where Richard (time limited) and Hannah (tired legs after racing yesterday) headed back to Bridgend.
Chris G, Matt, Tony, Mark, Nick and myself continued through the lanes to Rhiwsaeson, Groesfaen then turning off to P.S.E. The pace hotted up a bit here and felt in the legs when we turned off to St. George's and Drope Lane and the climb up to the Downs. Another nasty little climb which has Harpo as the slowest OVW rider on Strava, (really think you need to ride it not walk it next time Haydn
) Quick pitstop in Duffryn Gardens, then climbed up and over to Llancarfan, Matt came in to the ford at the bottom a bit 'hot' and took a dip (which cooled him off). Fortunately no injuries and only a slightly bent rear mech on the bike.
Bit of speed work home from here via St Athan, Wick and Death Valley to end a great day out.
Matt very strong on the hills again today and Chris G towed us home most of the way along the Wick Road
