A large group of eleven left King’s Square on an overcast, but frost-free morning for the Sport Ride. Coming out of Highleadon, we spotted a familiar rider ahead, and soon the group was twelve. One rider, on a gravel bike, disappeared at Poolhill to explore some off-road options around Dymock and Queen’s Woods, while the rest continued on tarmac, although that is a debatable description for the lane from Ryton to Broom’s Green.
The railway bridge at Greenway has been falsely signposted closed for the last few years, so it was a shock to find it really was closed. However, with no workmen on site, it was possible to pass as pedestrians, which may not be practical during the week. Cider Mill Hill provided the first challenge, and predictably split the group. We re-grouped at the top, but three riders, who had previously declared they would be turning back early, turned for Kempley, leaving the remaining eight to enjoy the beautiful road through Hole in the Wall into Ross-on-Wye.
The return took the scenic Walford valley. One rider’s cleat was obviously too worn, and kept pulling out, which was a particular problem on the steep climb out of Pontshill to East Dean. He did appologise for the rather choice language at the top! Flaxley valley rounded off an excellent ride. It’s worth noting that we met the gravel rider at St Oswalds on the return, and his bike was cleaner than those who had chosen the road option!
The ten-strong B ride set off at good pace for the assault of Woolridge Hill, the first of several climbs. Conditions were super-dull but no frost or ice present the riders could relax and enjoy the route. Numerous cyclists were encountered on Blackwell’s End. The second climb to Upleadon caused no issues and the group proceeded to bypass Newent and onto the undulations to Kempley ((3 climbs). Hanging a left at the church we then took a surprise right to much ‘oohing’ from those that knew the road. A three-climb roller-coaster, normally affording grand views but not today, took us through Upton Crews. Regrouping at The Moody Cow, it was along, down and up the B4221. Another surprise turn to cross the Ross / Malvern road and a final two climbs to enter Ross. We gained The Engine Shed at 11.10am, to catch the early departing President. Excellent refreshments were served although one eager rider managed to secure someone else’s bacon sandwich. Oh dear.
The temperature was still low despite someone’s Garmin suggesting a tropical 10.5˚C as we departed for the Walford valley. Five lunch-bound took on a short section of the A40, then a stiff and poorly surfaced climb to Aston Crews. The long climb and descent to Lea Line was lacking the usual fine views into Wales. Onwards and largely downwards to Flaxley and Blaisdon. Here there was no room at the Inn so we pressed on to Huntley. Sadly the Inn was not open! After exchanging ideas with some horse riders, equally appalled at the unavailability of refreshments, the decision was taken to head for the City and The Pelican. Don’t spare the horses! A mingling with Cheltenham CTC soon left them in our wake and a table was secured. As suspected, the CTC group arrived some minutes later. Sometimes it’s good to arrive ahead of the competition!