The ride leader arrived at Kings Square to the sound of large beating drums. It was a group of local folks playing in the Taiko style; the translation for ‘taiko’ itself is quite literally just ‘big drum’! Taiko has been a very important and historic part of Japanese culture for many years. This was happening in support of the local 10 k run. On arrival though there was no other cyclist in sight. However, after 10 minutes there were four others assembled and we set off on the published route via Southgate Street heading for one of the Cotswold scarp ascents. We had some slight rain, but it didn’t warrant any additional wet attire. One rider went alone at Edge to return home early leaving four to continue. This included the rider who had recently covered 400 miles in one go a few days a go so a big “ chapeau” to him!
After one climb we dropped down into the Frome Valley before climbing up towards Selsley and then bore right to eventually take on Frocester Hill and continued to Wotton Under Edge and Charfield. We did all eventually get to the coffee stop against a strong headwind at times, but in good sunshine.
The ride home through the lanes to the west of the A38 was a ”breeze” with the strong tailwind (excuse the pun). Two keen faster riders decided to take the A38 home after Slimbridge with the remainder following the route back via Frampton Upon Severn at a more leisurely pace.
59 miles, 3,632 ft elevation