Maerdy mountain was only a place for mad men and 'die hards' today and in expectation of a tough day, six set off on the pacers ride.
Steven, Rob, Chris, Jason, Mark Nott and myself. Steady pace out through Brynna to Llantrisant with Steven instilling some discipline to the group riding.
Heavens opened in Church Village and rain capes were donned by some, with other waiting until Pontypridd when it got really heavy!
This was to continue for the rest of the ride so no 'jacket on - jacket off' issues, that's for sure.
Through Ponty and up the Rhondda Fach using the old roads as the bypss is no fun for cyclist, via Porth, Wattstown and Ferndale to Maerdy and the main climb of the day. Mist was descending but was assured that the sun was shining at the top of the mountain NOT!
Rob led the way up this short but tough climb the rest of us getting together by the bottom of the wet, hazardous descent. Baguette Express in Aberdare was a welcome sight and coffee and cakes equally welcome.
Rob then led the charge down the Cynon valley into the building headwind, negating any chance of a rest before the climb up Penycoedcae.
On many club runs in the past we have got to this climb and chosen the easy option of going around past the Uni but no dissenters today. Although Jason did question the fact we were going up the steep way, he may or may not of used foul language!!!
Once again Rob was in his element climbing and waited patiently at the summit for Steven, Mark, Chris and myself who had tapped out a sensible pace up what is another tough climb. Jayson at some point after Penycoedcae headed for home and Rob peeled off at Llantrisant. Four of us shared the work back to Bridgend with the drag up to Llanharan a challenge as always.
59 miles banked and an enjoyable ride despite the weather.
