Four hardy souls left Brackla this morning, in damp conditions and hoping to pick up some vagrants en route, as I didn't fancy trying told Haydn's wheel for 100 miles.
Luckily Toestrap Steve, Steve Chapman and Jason were at L'Oreal roundabout and we picked up Andy Samuels on the way to Rhydlafar.
A healthy pace was set on the mostly flat route to the Tumble, 18+ mph to this point with Jason and Haydn doing a lot of the work, having to be occasionally reigned in by the two Steve's and myself, when the pace got too hot. After an hour or so of light rain things dried out by the time we reached Cardiff and we enjoyed a mostly dry ride up through Caerleon, Usk towards the Tumble, Natural selection occurred with Ts Steve leading the way, followed by Haydn, Jason and Steve C. Simon M (Ajax) stayed in touch with me, Richard and Andy providing the rearguard.
Coffee stop in an excellent cafe on Blaenavon high street, took a while to find but well worth and v. friendly. Rain reared its ugly head when we set off again but still not much more than a light shower. Speedy decent down the valley before grinding our way along the bypass to Y. Mynach and Caerphilly. Some tired legs by this point but all made it up Caerphilly mountain, just!!
Came home via Treforest ind est, where Andy turned off for a well deserved pint (did your wife come and pick you up?!!) and the rest of us fought the headwind home.
100+ miles and very enjoyable despite the weather.
Great riding all, see you next week.
