02\07\16 - Kingdom of the East Saxons 400km Audax

Needed this one to get Super Randonneur 2016 recognition.  I started from Dunmow at 11:00 on Saturday.  A not too rapid westerly ride into the wind until Reed (40kms).  Then east to Harwich Docks, via Clare (156kms).  This bit was worth waiting for as the wind blew me along.  However the feeling of flying was mitigated by the showers and storms around us.  Still it's not too difficult coping with getting soaked when you have the knowledge that you'll soon dry out.  After Harwich and on to Clacton.  By now the clouds were black and the lightening was horizontal but we were all treated to the glorious sight of a full rainbow, plus its full reflection.  The route alongside the sea was in many places pitiful, so it was good to get to Clacton - didn't expect to get those last few words into the same sentence! 
By now the weather had settled.  It didn't rain again and the wind lost some of its ferocity.  Got back to the HQ (269kms) at 00:50 for some more food and a change (of socks!).  Got started again at 02:05 and made my way to Billericay.  The sky starts to lighten at 02:30 and before long I was making my way "up the only hill in Essex".  From Billericay to Burnham on Crouch, then the final 32kms back to HQ (410kms).  Got back at 10:00 on Sunday.
An enjoyable ride although not without its own problems and challenges.  But it's a great feeling to have attempted and succeeded with an enterprise, and then have the chance to bask in your own glory!  Having already completed the 200, 300 & 600 I can now call myself a Super Randonneur for 2016.  PW.