10 out today, a cloudy start but promise of some sunshine en route.
Allan, Steven, Jason and myself were joined by Wayne, Richard, Terry, Neal, Jonathan and Haydn for our '3 peaks' ride. over the Bwlch, Rhigos and Aberdare mountains.
After a stuttering start we hit the bottom of the Bwlch and Steven showing the benefit of Mallorca miles, soon hit the front setting a good tempo, being chased by Allan.
Meanwhile I did my best to hang on to Terry's wheel who was also looking strong. In fact there was no more than a minute or two between the bulk of us, up this climb. After a rapid descent we regrouped at the turn for Treochy and headed for the Rhigos. Again Allan and Steven led the way followed by Terry with the rest of us trying to enjoying the sunshine as best we could! After the descent Allan made his own way back, while we regrouped again.
Headed on, to Aberdare for coffee stop, This was a mixed blessing, great for coffee and cake but the legs weren't too happy to be warming up again with the climb out of Aberdare, a tough climb with its 16% section near the start but all made it over with various degrees of effort, Haydn looking the strongest by this time. Down into Maerdy we followed the old road through the Rhondda fach to Pontypridd and home via Llantrisant.
65 miles for me 4 hours 30. Not too shabby after all that climbing. Great ride and see you all next week
