Last 'training ride' before GWR. 43

With the GWR ( Great Western Ride) looming in about 9 days time, the Old Git 'Friday Riders' thought it would be prudent to have a last concerted effort to get in shape and ride up Burrington Combe, one of the segments of the GWR.  It was a perfect day for riding so five of us set off to take the challenge.  Unfortunately, out of the five, I was the only one scheduled to do the event, the rest of the contenders were committed elsewhere.  And, with me riding Sparky, did I really need it?

Four of us met in Weston, and as we were cycling very close to Colin's place on the way to Burrington, he very kindly offered us tea and cake before attempting the climb. About 14 miles in, we found his place and sampled a delicious coffee cake made by his good lady.Whilst devouring that we discussed the ills of the world, including Brexit!  The five of us then set off to scale the 2 mile, 800' climb to the top of Burrington Combe where we had a few minutes rest.  Personally, on Sparky, it was relatively easy but I take my hat off to two of the five.  One is in his early 80s and another has a very heavy, bog standard, mountain bike.  Those two did really well, hats off to them.  I was surprised that I only used the lowest level of assistance available.  Just hope the battery lasts out on the day, it is a 60 mile event!

Cheddar Gorge

After riding across the top of the Mendips for two or three miles we took a turning off to Cheddar Gorge.  A fairly thrilling, brake assisted, descent into the Gorge watching out for wandering sheep and ramblers. At 25-30mph, best not crash into any of them.  Into the touristy section of Cheddar just had to stop for another cuppa.  A passing waitress took the picture which shows from l to r  Colin (tea provider) Big Al of mountain bike fame, Jim, Phil ( another one to raise your hat to) and myself.  

We carried on after that through Axbridge to the Strawberry Line, Shute Shelve tunnel, and back to Weston via Puxton.  Clocked up 43 miles today on a very enjoyable ride out with the 'lads'.