Club Runs 11th October 2015

Cat 2 ride led by Sam B
An earlier start for the cat 2 with Liberato Rocco and myself, the morning chill was a reminder that the long days of summer are behind us. However, October smiled on us and provided some warm sun to help the arm warmers and long sleeves counter the crisp air. Initial plans were route A to the Silver Ball cafe but a well-used and picturesque circular route around Stevenage was chosen instead. Ware to Barwick Ford, then to Standon Lordship, Levens Green and Ardeley. On to Graveley then Great Wymondley and St Paul's Walden, Datchworth and Hertford. On reflection, this route doesn't lend itself to a cat 2 pace with plenty of climbs and winding lanes to slow the pace, but we were spurred on by the beautiful morning (and bacon & peanut butter sandwiches) and took advantage of any downhills to up the average. 54 miles at 15.6av. No mechanicals. Lib nearly ran over a squirrel.

Cat 6 run led by Mike E
Buoyed by the perfect cycling weather and the exciting prospect of a late morning in downtown Bishops Stortford, twenty riders headed northwards via Much Hadham and Farnham.The Mocca cafe came up with their usual tasty tuck and excellent service. The return journey took in Little Hallingbury and Sawbridgeworth. In our honour we were treated to a Vulcan Bomber fly past at Cold Christmas. In spite of having the top two on the Mechanicals Leader Board on the ride, there were none. 39 miles.

Cat3/5 Pete W

Ten took part.  I didn't see that coming, as I was only expecting perhaps three or four due to the various whisperings from the assembled Cat3 riders about a trip to Toddington.  I forgot that many of them, having done the hill climb, could not have done a super-speedy trip to anywhere.  So we took a fairly easy tour to Baldock via the B656, turning towards Wymondley, Willian and thence to Tapps.  One or two gentle hills for our climbing experts to refresh their skills on as we returned via Weston, Walkern and Watton shedding riders as we rode.  Three of us got back to Hertford, the rest having turned off to their homes.  Lovely autumn morning, won't see many more of those this year?  One puncture and no other problems.