We visit Dursley often, so in his search for variety, the vice captain found some gruelling climbs. Although it was damp before departure, this had cleared by our departure time, and seven riders left King’s Square for the familiar initial climb via Cranham woods to Foston’s Ash, and were only delayed by a dropped chain. Luckily, the steep and torturous descent of the Old Neighbourhood was dry, and passed without incident.
Hyde Hill was the highlight of the morning’s climbs, and, although not the highest point, would be the most deserving should a “Cima Coppa” be awarded. Like the Old Neighbourhood, the W descent into Nailsworth was treated with respect, and led us to the final climb of our “Giro di Dursley”, which was Horsley. However, unlike events in Italy, our time-trial specialist left us all struggling for minor placings.
The route was clearly not tough enough for one rider, who asked if we could divert down to Ozleworth, but luckily, the peloton ignored her request, and we flew directly down to well-deserved refreshments in Dursley.
The initial short and steep climbs to Cam Peak caused the only complaints amongst the riders, but after that, excellent teamwork made light work of the strong headwind on our return.
47 miles, 3,300’ ascent @14.4mph.