M7 Cycling Club

Thirty Ninth Ride: Sunday 25^th November 2007
Routemaster: Doug Freeman
M4 Riders: Doug Freeman, Ian Hartland, Dave Shuttleworth, Steve Darby
M1 Rider: Celia Neill
Total mileage: 23.41 miles
Average Speed: 11.86 mph
Fastest Speed: 32 mph (Ian)

The M1 and M4 minus Dave met at Harbury Village Hall for a 1pm start. It was an overcast autumn day, 8c with a 9mph wind from the North West. The ride had been advertised as approximately 20 miles with undulations, but Celia opted her own 7 mile circuit through Chesterton and Thwaites. So the M3 headed off to Deppers Bridge to meet Dave and then became the M4. Confused, well I certainly am.

From Deppers Bridge we went at a cracking pace to Southam, under the bypass and on to the Welsh Road East. Here we relaxed to a more sensible speed having reached the quieter country roads, but still Steve had his sights on the maillot jaune. The peloton almost managed to send Steve on a left turn false trail, and after that he became very wary of any future directions.

We crossed the canal bridge at Marston Doles and climbed the hill up and into Priors Marston. We were now on virgin M7 territory, and turned left to follow the gradual ascent towards the Shuckburgh Hills. At the summit the riders were given instructions about their downhill route, and Steve and Ian did not need any encouragement as the Tally Ho was given. Steve of course led the way, and Ian clocked the fastest speed of day which was very impressive as it was directly into the headwind. Dave and Doug followed at a more sensible pace, and Doug almost became air born when his unzipped jacket metamorphosed into a kite.

We regrouped at Manor Farm, and then descended Butt Hill and crossed the A425. Steve, who was yet again in the lead, finally took the bait and turned left towards Stockton followed by Dave. Doug and Ian pointed out the error of their way, and carried straight on past the Napton Marina, and on route to Gibraltar Bridge. Here the M4 had to choose between an extra 3 miles on a hilly circular route to Long Itchington, or the flat and direct route alongside the canal.

Various excuses were made; the weather closing in; having to work that afternoon; needing to fill the car up; and so the non decision was made. The M4 showed great strength of character by resisting the temptation of coffee in the Two Boats Canal Side Café, and instead continued along the canal towpath and onto the Bascote Road for the final stage back to Harbury.

Another very enjoyable autumn ride, good company, and Celia's promised report of her M1 adventure follows.

Doug.

M1 Report

I decided to follow my plan and do my own cycle at the sight of three ‘fit’ young men at the Village Hall. I knew that I would hold them up, especially on the hills; my legs are shorter and have to work harder!

I headed out of the village through Temple End and towards Chesterton Windmill. A wonderful freewheel down the hill and then towards Chesterton. A stream and a lot of mud greeted me at the entrance to Thwaites. It was all very quiet and with wonderful shades of brown everywhere. I particularly noticed the circles of brown under the trees looking almost artificial. I stopped to look at a photo of the teenager killed car surfing, flowers had been left and some cans of beer. One had been drunk but three remained full. I left them for a more worthy recipient.

I was back home by 1.40pm and ready to continue my decorating. If I had joined the others they probably would have needed their lights to come home, so, thanks for the excuse to get organised to come out, but sorry I missed your company.

M1 cyclist