2010 News

Southern Counties CU 100 - G100/60 - 25.07.2010

Four Ports entered, and two arrived at the start line. Ian is still in recovery and Dave for some reason thought a night out with friends was a more appealing option.
At this point i would like to draw attention to one Wojciech Kozielski. Voy rising at sparrows fart cycled to East Croydon, got the train to Gatwick and then cycled to the event for his 6.04 start. He was as he said 'warmed up' before the race. After the race he concluded the mornings work with a ride to Brighton. Well done Sir- respect.
For those who have not ridden this course (ie. those who are not Voy and me) the first 50 is along the roads familiar to anyone who has done a 10, 25 or 50 out of Broadbridge Heath Which is all fine and dandy. The sting is in this courses very long tail. Addiscombe's Andy Green nicely summned it up. Its a 60 mile TT with a 40 mile sporting course tacked on the end. Long lumpy sections on some dodgy old B roads. It was at about 80 miles that my legs went, and the PB I had sort of been on track for went out of the window.
Voy enjoyed himself so much he did an extra 3 miles at the end.
Anyway, that is the 100 out of the way for another year. The winner by a country mile was Rob Pelham with at 3.52.40. Nobody else broke 4 hrs. It was not a nice day and of a field of 62 riders 10 DNF'd, to add to the 7 who DNS'd.
For the Ports Voy in his first open event came home with 5.26.45. (First open= 100= !). I finished up with 4.45.04 which I was happy enough with in the circumstances.
At the end I reflected on how unlovely a 24 hrs TT could be.
Andy

Club Runs 24/25.07.2010

Sunday - A pleasant day, at Corkscrew were Dave, Iain, Ian (who was injured, but NOT making a fuss), Mark N and Keith (the Horse Whisperer) T who told tales of "I've not even seen a Bike for six week's, what with making flat-pack furniture in exotic places and FORCED to go on holiday "and then proceeded to kick bottom on all the climbs along Layhams and Beddlestead ( 9:50 !! only aided by 'hanging on to others coat-tails', non-the-less, first time for a VERY LOOOOONG TIME !).
Down into Limpsfield and, to ring the changes forgoing the 'usual', straight down 'Kami-Kazi' hill into Edenbridge then Four Elms Bough Beech, Chiddingstone (where the road has been renewed, not before time !) Chidd' Hoathe, and Penshurst. Here, whilst the others 'enjoyed' Paul's bestest Cafe your Hero carried on to home having had prior orders to attend 'Son-of-Oz!'s' new gaff (at Southwater, about a mile from the Roundabout - what's the chance of getting him to Marshall ?(don't hold yer breath !!). So down into Chiddingstone' Causeway, Bough Beech Res, and Ide Hill over the top to Goathurst Common (where, once again, a new road surface has been applied, see, it CAN be done ), down Back Lane, into Riverhead, Dunton Green and the Pohill and Farnborough to home - Oz
Saturday - I met Sheena at The Spinning Wheel as proscribed AND we waited AND waited some more, then, deciding 'we' may be waiting-in-vain decided to carry on (steadily) and await the clamour of the 'run-Portly'. Along through Knockholt and Halstead down along Shacklands then the assault of Chelsfield Lane - this was rattled off in 11 mins exactly - ANOTHER 15 seconds taken off). Down to the A21, Old Hill and High Elms Cafe. Here were waiting the shiny round smiling faces of Phil (post TT ), Simon and 'newbie' Julian, and shortly, Michael who'd been off on a wander 'cos he can)
After Tiffin and a tweak to Sheena's bike we mass-chaperoned Sheena back to Biggin Hill - then we all headed Home. Julian survived the Old Portlians experience and threatens to be out next week - Oz

Crawley Wheelers 10 - G10/57 - 24.07.2010

Fine morning on G10/57. Resistance on the return leg but no wind to speak of.
Phil Pearson, Paul King, Barry Newman and Garry Blunt were entered. Garry was invalidated by a back injury.

Times
Paul - 24.16 (34 sec improvement on previous showing at G10/57 of 2 weeks ago).
Phil - 25.00
Barry - 24.43 (first appearance on G10/57 in 4 or 5 years, I think)

Going by: (a) the time of the winner Nick Dwyer who did 20.38 today but did 20.08 2 weeks ago and (b) the time of the fast man Keith Coffey who did 21.53 today but 20.56 2 weeks ago, it could be argued that the day was about 30 seconds to a minute slower than the conditions that prevailed last time the OPCC graced this particular bit of tarmac 2 weeks ago - Paul

Club Evening TT - 22.07.2010
A scorching ride by a guest, and Colin edges closer to Ian in the league table ... More in 2010 News amd league table here

Club Evening TT - 22.07.2010

Well after a pretty rubbish day, Crowhurst turned into a nice place to be. Bright with little wind and dry.
Seven riders, four Old Ports and three guests.

Results
Name - 1st lap - Finish - Points
Simon McLaughlin - 15.18 - 30.49 - Seven Oaks Tri
Colin Hathaway - 16.07 - 32.27 - 6pts
Dave Churchill - 16.49 - 33.27 - Big Foot Bikes
Dave Warne - 16.59 - 34.16 - 5pts
Phil Pearson - 17.12 - 34.41 - 4pts
Voitec - 17.22 - 35.29 - 3pts
Paul Allen - 19.57 - 40.17 - Lingfield RC

I must say that Simons time around the cicuit has not as far as I can remember, been achieved by anybody since the days of Colin Smith, circa 1995. So his ride is to be commended, especially as it was his first time around the course..............GREAT RIDE, go for the club record next time, which I think is 28.30ish.

PS - Having just looked through my records on the 13/5/98 I recorded a 30.47, I was 42 years old and I believe FJ did a 30.48 and he is much older than me!!.................So Simon is human after all....unlike Colin Smith of course!! - Ian

Wednesday Club Ride 21.07.2010

Same as last week - out to Cuckfield via Crawley and Pease Pottage and back to Croydon via Balcombe and Horley - 60 miles - Phil

Bec CC 25 - G25/53 - 18.07.2010

Usual Broadbridge Heath Course.
Grey morning with a bit of a westerly breeze by the time OP's were on the road.
Four entered but Ian and Dave were both DNS.
So, two riders -

Barry - 01:04:38
Phil - 01:05:45 - another PBome by 45 seconds.

Didn't wait for the winners time to come up but I don't think it was going to be a quick morning - Phil

Club Runs 17/18.07.2010

Sunday - there were Ian, Wojciech, Gary, Dave Warne, and Mark. Now, as Ian was 'off games' the 'new' 10 course was chosen to see if it was met with approval. An interesting route was chosen following the previous Wed's Wobble directions - down Hog Trough into Brastead, into Westerham and up Hosey Hill, into French Street, down to Puddledock (where Ian approved of the super smooth surface ) towards Four Elms, back towards Edenbnridge , then into the lanes around Crowhurst around the circuit, back to where 'we' started. Here Gary went home - his pass was running out. Once more around the circuit looking for a start/finish place then into the Golf Club for sustinance. All filled up back towards Staffhurst Wood, then the fun of Pains Hill back down to Moorehouse, Clackett Lane (now mercifully mostly repaired !), Rectory Lane, Botley (Mark carried on ) then Church Hill , Rag Hill and Hawleys Corner. Here everything went silly, as, waiting at the junction were some Dulwich Paragons. Now this took the form of a red rag to an Ian, the blue touch paper was lit, a yellow card shown, white knuckles appeared, brown pants were worn, green eyes fell upon one of 'thems' bikes, purple heads abounded and the game was afoot. Around the 'Airfix' planes the will to live disappeared (Wojciech went to the front as it went down hill) and the 'wiser' members wound down to home oz!
Saturday - followed the usual route with Ian, Les, John, Owen AND a re-juvinated Simon. Chelsfield Lane was attacked - Simon's pace - 8.75 mins. Dinning Al Fresco at the High Elms Caf' we joined Stu who'd been off on his own.

Club Evening TT - 15.07.2010

Another fine night, but apparently abit windy.
Seven riders of which two were guests.

Results:

Name - 1st lap - Finish - Points
Ben Hardisty - 16.57 - 33.41 - East Grinstead CC
Dave Churchill - 17.30 - 34.22 - Big Foot Bikes
Wojciech - 17.31 - 34.50 - 6pts
Dave Hickman - 17.17 - 35.05 - 5pts
Dave Warne - 17.16 - 35.08 - 4pts
Gary Blunt - 17.38 - 35.31 - 3pts
Valerie Place - 19.12 - 38.30 - 2pts

There you have it - another fine night - Ian

Wednesday Club Ride 14.07.2010

Usual route out via Charlwood to Cuckfield - straight into the wind. Then back by the most direct route to beat the rain drops (did, just) and see the OPs on a French road side - didn't, except in John's screen grab. Still, 60 fairly tough miles - Phil

Club Runs 10/11.07.2010

Sunday - was even hotter. There at Corkscrew was Andy, Iain and Paul and Dave. After much "I only want to be out an hour or so 'cos I'm going away soon", Speedgate was hit upon but discarding the 'usual 'Layhams/Beddlestead route and seeking something a little different. So Saturdays route via Downe to Berrys Green then Left, New Barn Lane, Cackets Lane (without the 'L') New Years Lane, The Washneys, then Fairtrough and Perrys Lane, where the large 'bumps'(Tree roots) in the Valley almost caught 'some' out !! (CAUTION IF YOU'RE GOING THAT WAY !!) and out into Knockholt.
Here the merry wanderers, Paul and Iain, went home leaving the rest to travel down Star Hill, Ivy Lane and into Otford, enduring the A225 till 'we' got to Fackenden Hill, then Magpie Bottom, Goodbury Lane and the fun of Tinker Pot Lane hill and into West Kingsdown, then the lane to the Cafe which was oddly quiet. Here we dinned of such Ambrosia as Egg'n'Bacon Rolls and, being early, had time for a second cupper ( strangely, the 'short cut/pretty way' was slightly longer but reached earlier !).
Then back into Farningham, Einsford, Lullingstone and, the chaos caused by Motorists all trying to squeeze into the same narrow bit of road at the same time ! Here for a change the dyslexically named Cockerhurst Lane was taken to 'Hickman Country' and Dave's home, where he had an exciting afternoon lined up, then Farnborough Hill and home - oz!
Saturday - as previously predicted, Saturday was all hot and sunny so as per usual I was beaten up by the Dulwich on my journey along Beddlestead. Then, being hot and flustered, I joined Sheena in the shade at The Spinning Wheel to await the merry throng. Whist waiting we endured the insults of the passing Catford roughs.
Then followed the Portlies consisting of Phil (post TT), Stu', Les, Graham, Evergreen (preNuptials), Wojciech and John. When Badgers was reached many of the 'Light-Weights' took the easy way out, directly down the A21 whilst the 'Well-'ards' continued on the proscribed route. When reaching the top of Bowdens, Sheena asked as to whether I could possibly re-adjust her hastily adjusted 'bars, as, on reaching the bottom of Shacklands and under heavy breaking, had forced the 'bars to the point where her nose was almost resting on the stem. By this time, the 'rest' had carried on, leaving us to endure Old Hill before the 'eco-caf' was reached. Here Simon was waiting having decided he was fit enough already.
Then 'we' went home - oz!
PS - as a matter of interest/record Sheena took 15 seconds off the ascent of Bowdens (1130 to 1115 !) - roll on Eastbourne

Southend Wheelers 50 - E21/50 - 11.07.2010

This is a lumpy 50 in Essex, starting in Latchington. It basically does two and a half laps of a circuit, taking in Asheldham, Tillingham, Bradwell and Steeple. It is a hard course.
Well things appeared to be going to plan, with me already catching my '0' John Iszatt, with him in-turn taking me back, but I had him insight, with a view of taking him at the same point on as lap two.
However, a point five miles from Steeple had very bad road surface with the surface breaking away. This was marked by three red flags. After negotiating it twice already on the third attempt I misjudged my line in the road and punctured my front wheel and crashed, at least at 25mph, I came down very hard and have severe gravel rash up the whole of my right side and arm, plus my fingers on my left hand. Drove to Bromley and spent four hours in A + E !!!
Anyway it was training and had I finished at the average speed that I crashed I would have done a 2.6.00. - hey ho. I am beginning to hurt now all over ! - Ian

South Eastern RC 10 - G10/57 - 10.07.2010

Back to Broadbridge Heath for 10 on G10/57. SERC got an entry of 80.
Think I will move to the Horsham area as this has been my 4th drive down in 10 days. However, despite that and arranging an event on this course last week, my familiarity with the roads there seems to have made me a little complacent as on the way to the start I got lost! I incurred a time penalty of 2m.14s, which when netted out of my "on the board time" produced my time - 24.50 (PB for this year and my modern era. Still a massive 2.30 to go but I am going in the right direction).

Other OPCC people came along as well -
Phil's time - 24.51 (I believe this to be a PB for Phil for this year and of his modern era)
Colin's time - 23.46 (18 seconds, I think, shy of his PB and a good ride with a damaged right hand, although some are never happy!!)

The event was won with a mincingly quick 19.43 by Peter Tadros

Club Evening TT - 08.07.2010

Another dry and bright night, with eleven starters, four of which were guests, three Big Foot riders and another potential new recruit to the club Russell Smith.
The results -

Name - 1st lap - Finish - pts

Steve Salmon - 15.55 - 32.04 - Big Foot Bikes
Colin Hathaway - 16.36 - 33.26 - 6
Reuben Evans - 16.45 - 33.56 - Big Foot Bikes
Dave Churchill - 16.58 - 34.08 - Big Foot Bikes
Russell Smith - 16.45 - 34.21 - Unattached
David Hickman - 16.53 - 34.44 - 5
Gary Blunt - 17.20 - 35.07 - 4
James Mason - 17.45 - 35.35 - 3
Voitec - 17.49 - 36.12 - 2
Valerie Place - 19.08 - 37.38 - 1
Phil Pearson - DNF

There you have it, well done one and all
Cheers - Ian

Brighton Bash - 07.07.2010

Today was the day for the yearly ride to Brighton and back. The meeting point is outside Hunsuckle Cottage at the top of Titsey Hill. Today I met Wojciech, from now on to be refered to as Voy, Colin Hathaway, and Stuart. We rode from Corkscrew up to the meeting point, arriving there in an annoying drizzle, not good I thought. As we were early we sheltered under the trees, getting cold. Anyway by 9.20am we had ten riders, to list them; Colin Hathaway ( Big Mig ), Phil Pearson ( Retro ), Dave Osborn (Ozzy ), Ian Bashford ( Bashers ), Wojciech ( Voy ), John Mulvaney ( FJ ), Stuart ( ? ), Iain Hawthorn ( Croupier ), Andy Green ( ? ), Barry Newman ( Bazza ).
We set off at 9.30 sharp and froze to death going down Chalk Pit but warmed up by the time we hit Crowhurst. At Lingfield FJ decided he needed to attend to a call of nature, not just a pee tho, so the garage on the roundabout was utilised. FJ was nearly locked in as he made the schoolboy error of leaving the key to the lock on the outside!! We pressed on, into a stiff headwind, Turners Hill was negotiated at which point Andy Green left us, ( had a work meeting to attend, very unsporting by his Boss to call the meeting ). So we were nine. We pressed on not necessarily all together, all of the time.................but on we went, Ditchling Common, Ditchling Village, then Ditchling Hill, Voy for some obscure reason was looking forward to this climb - he did have to change out of his big ring though, small point, but I thought I would mention it. Anyway Roedean cafe was reached and sustinance was taken in, more by some people than others................I am still bringing up the major fry up that I had.
Homeward ride involved going further east along the front then turning inland, heading towards Lewes and East Grinstead. It is a pretty lumpy route and a couple of the guys were developing problems so at the planned stop at the Kings Arms in North Chaily, Big Mig carried on as he was getting cramp in his calves - he subsequently got a train home from East Grinstead. At The pub we were met by Nick and June who made a special journey to meet up with us - how great is that! Nice to see you both. We pushed on and by the time we got to East Grinstead Stuart was on his chinstraps, so a train journey he had. Now seven in number we pushed on, oh I havn't mentioned that Voy was still pushing on up the hills, as if they werent there, does he never tire?
Anyway we headed towards Crowhurst, where a group wee was performed. I believe this has been captured by Voy on his phone. Well to cut a long story short, from Crowhurst it was Limpsfield, Gangers, Botley, Tatsfield Church, Biggin Hill then home.
Well a great day and I have tan lines to prove it was a good day, Voy you are just an animal, you will be fine in the 100TT.
Bashers

Club Evening TT - 01.07.2010

It was a dry and humid night and 10 people turned up to race.
The results -

Name - 1st lap - finish time - Points
Austin Reid - 16:51 - 33:19
Ian Bashford - 16:27 - 33:19 - 6
David Churchill - 16:57 - 34:04
Phil Pearson - 17:05 - 34:30 - 5
Andy Green - 17:19 - 34:51 - 4
James Mason - 18:10 - 35:27
Voitec - 17:40 - 35:54 - 3
Daniel Brooksbank - 17:42 - 35:56
Gary Blunt - 18:00 - 36:09 - 2
Iain Hawthorn - DNF
Cheers - Ian

Wednesday Club Ride 30.06.2010

Phil was at the meeting point at 10 - and so was Stuart but we never met up - missed each other by seconds probably. Anyway, usual recent route but with an added loop around the Crowhurst circuit to get the mileage up to 84, non-stop, smidge over 16's this time.

Club Runs 26/27.06.2010

Sunday - today there was Wojciech and Mark and later John. It was still VERY hot, the scenic route to Penshurst was chosen and the only thing to report of interest was every time it went up hill Wojciech has adopted a style that makes Colin look like Lance Armstrong meaning all ascents were attacked in the biggest gear available. Along Beddlestead, down White Hill into Limpsfield, through Crowhurst to Lingfield, the climb through Dormans to Cowden. Then around the back of Finches Green where at last, his gearing caught him out - but not enough to be caught ! Into Penshurst and Quaintways where grub was dinned on whilst Daisy plied we with copious Ewers (I've avoided the use of the word 'Jugs') of FREE !!!!!! water. Here the wiser heads muttered "he'll pay for all them big gears he will !" (he didn't).
Out via Penshurst Place into Leigh, through to Wealde AND not fancying being roasted on Hubbards the more 'sheltered' climb of Bayleys was choisen and once again Wojciech vanished ahead, a regroup , into Riverhead and Polhill. Here Mark was lost then 'we' went home - oz!
Saturday - it was all sunny and dry and so after an early perambulation, the Saturday gang hove into view - Simon, Colin and Les. After negotiating the traffic jam caused by the Biggin Hill Air Fair the usual was followed, Chelsfield Lane was relished especially by Simon and after last weeks 'Autumn Fest' dining was enjoyed Al-Fresco. Then we were joined by Mike who explained how life got in the way of enjoyment ! Then we went home - oz
Stuart reports he was out at 07:30 to do 80 miles. Obviously getting the miles in for the Brighton ride.

SCCU 50 - G50/53 - 27.06.2010

This course is basically twice around the Broadbridge Heath 25, except on the second lap you don't go up Tollgate, but do a little leg past the HQ to the second roundabout.
Today was a perfect day, no wind to speak of and warm then very warm at the end. Four Old Ports entered to contest the 50 miles championship, Barry Newman no18, Ian Bashford no 46, Dave Hickman no 57 and Andy Green no 77.

Our results:
Barry Newman - 2hrs 12min 47sec - avg 22.59mph
Ian Bashford - 2hrs 01mins 27sec - avg 24.7 mph
Dave Hickman - 2hrs 11min 52sec - avg 22.75mph
Andy Green - DNF

The winner was Rupert Burbidge - Redhill CC - 1hr 49min 30sec - avg 27.4mph

So there you have it, the winner of this years 50 TT championship and holder of ' The Presidents Challenge Cup ' for 2010/11, is Ian Bashford.

Horsham CC 10 - G10/57 - 26.06.2010

A PBOME - but only by 9 seconds - 25:21
A lovely morning but for me the very gentle easterly was the wrong way around - I need a gentle tail wind to start to get me going. There's been a few mornings like this this year.
Anyway, not too bad and have kept improving in every event ridden this year. Winner Keith Coffey - 20:55
HQ is good but the car park is small. Will be fine for the size field we have for our 10 but for anything larger would be an issue - Phil

Club Evening TT and Interclub against South Eastern RC - 23.06.2010

It was a warm night and even with some of our club suffering from complaints that you don't mention and members popping anti inflammatory and ones that have raced tooooo much over the last 5 days. Anyway a vast amount of cyclists gathered near Sundridge for the return leg ( SERC ) of the Interclub.

SERC
Andrew Sykes - 00:24:47
Rob Milloy - 00:27:21
Oliver Walker - 00:27:43
Steve Humphrey - 00:28:36
Michael Twitchett - 00:28:54
Mike Gibbons - 00:29:09
Adam Dunn - 00:29:42
Colin Derrick - 00:30:20

Old Ports
Ian Bashford - 00:25:51
Colin Hathaway - 00:25:52
Dave Warne - 00:26:50
Barry Newman - 00:27:33
Andy Green - 00:27:57
Gary Blunt - 00:28:13
Iain Hawthorn - 00:28:16
Woyciech - 00:28:42
Paul King - 00:28:48

Team
Old Ports - 2.14.03.
SERC - 2.19.09

Wednesday Club Ride 23.06.2010

What a glorious day today. The solo Croydon ride did the usual-ish route down through Surrey, into West Sussex and back via Kent. I kept thinking back to dim, distant bike rides on sunny days out of Liverpool into North Wales or the Trough. Unfortunately, my brain might be still thinking it's a teenager but my body knows better and so the 79 miles today, a smidge under 16s, non-stop, left me just a little weary.

Denmead 600 - 19-20.06.2010

6am start from the organisers house saw me starting another ride from Denmead Hants, all on my lonesome for this one, apart from 12 other randoneers.
Stage one to Wilton at 82k then on to Bradford on Avon 135k, then Cirencester at 192k and then a horrible A road stage to Warwick at 260k. Took a much needed rest, then on to Baynards Green 301k through Leighton Buzzard to Baldock 395k. Managed to get 2.5 hours restless sleep here but was all to soon on my homeward third and to Aylesbury at 466k then to Theale at 528k.
Had a nice rest and breakfast by the river kennet on this section but needed 2 cans of Red Bull and a lot of mental strength to get me through the last 74k and the finish. So from start to finish 31 hours, 15mph av whilst moving, consumed 14 bottles energy drink, 16 gels, 16 energy bars, a chicken sub, 4 sandwiches, a big mac meal and many bottles of water, was absolutely bombed at the finish and definitely wasn't fit enough for the distance.
The cateye read 374miles !! a long ride on ones own. - Chris

Club Runs 19/20.06.2010

Sunday - Just Oz, John and Mark out for this one on a cold June day with many away racing or tripping. Layhams, Beddlestead, Pilgrims, Brasted, Toys Hill, Four Elms and Hever to Chiddingstone. Then back via Bough Beech and Bayleys, Sevenoaks, Riverhead, Dunton Green, Shoreham, Chelsfield Lane and Farnbourough to West Wickham.
Saturday - John, Oz, Stu and Simon met-up this week to be joined by Mike later. Oz punctured before he even got to Corkscrew and Stuart in Chelsfield Lane his a big enough split to require a "Repair Boot" - a self adhesive patch to use on the inside of the tyre itself. While this repair took place Mike went missing - again - but all met-up at the Cafe for tea and cakes. Kevin Lock and Tony were also at the cafe and promise to come out on a club ride soon - Oz

Lewes Wanderers CC 30 - G30/88 - 20.06.2010

30 miles is an odd distance for a TT and this course is, well, odd. Basically it is a servicable 25 miles up and down the A22 around East Hoathly with a cheeky 5 mile detour near the end. In fact just at the point when you really fancy another 5 miles on lumpy potholed roads. But variety is the spice of life.
The good people of East Hoathly certainly enjoy a rock and roll life style. When we turned up at the HQ there was the remains of what must have been one hell of a party. Plastic glass and spilt beer everywhere around a small marquee and the toilets pretty much trashed. The smell of stale beer mixing with the usual brew of sewage and embrocation, nice.
Anyway a bright but cold and blowy morning and to be honest looking at the start sheet I presumed Pete Tadros would be the winner. But the fickle finger of fate can intervne for the best of us and a puncture ruled him out. The route caught a few out so there were a couple more DNF's.
Tom Glandfield of Lewes Wanderers won with a 1.13.09. I was reasonably satisfied with my 1.21.32 on what was not the fastest morning on record.
Mention in dispatches for Michael Twichett of SERC who fresh from battle with the Ports on Thursday claimed the Vets prize with a plus of 14.10.
- Andy

Farnham RC 25 - H25/8 - 20.06.2010

This course uses the A31 Bentley bypass starting at Bentley. South to Holybourne roundabout, turn, north to the Farnham roundabout, turn, back to Holybourne, final turn and finishing about two miles short of Farnham. It is a fast course in sections, with three annoying small climbs, which are not my cup of tea at the best of times.
Today was a little cold to start with but warming, with abit of a breeze, which seemed to aid and hinder at the most unlikely points on the course.
Only one Old Port entered this event..............me, off at 101 out of 110 solos and one tandem off 111.

Result;
Ian Bashford - 58min 21sec - avg 25.71 mph - 13th place

The winner Martin Williamson - London Dynamo Prologue - 54min 44sec - avg 27.41 mph

Added pleasures for me was, catching and putting another 6 seconds into number 100 and getting third vet on standard, so that's �15 yesterday and �15 today................do you think I should start employing an accountant?
- Ian

Gravesend CC 10 - Q10/22 - 19.06.2010

Ian and myself went to Lenham for the Gravesend 10 this morning. It was windy on the return leg of the Q10/22 Lenham-Charing course so in other words it was very hard indeed, so hard that as I turned into the wind at the turn, I sat up, stopped pedalling and thought "what am I bothering for", until I thought "what will Bashers say if I gave up" and so carried on.
Everybody else found it hard including the winner, Carl Chapman of the GS Invicta who posted a 22.46 and normally knocks out short 21s on the Kent courses and did a 9 to Bashers 14 in the VTTA Kent a couple of weeks ago.

Ian - 24:15
Paul - 26:28

- Paul

Club Evening TT and Interclub against South Eastern RC - 17.06.2010

The interclub with the SERC on the Crowhurst course on 17/6/10 attracted fourteen riders, seven riders a piece.
The results

SERC
Name - 1st lap - finish time

Colin Derrick - 18min 17sec - Punctured DNF
Les Humphrey - 20min 28sec - 41min 30 sec
Alan Walker - 18min 12sec - 36min 55sec
Ollie Walker - 17min 50sec - 36min 09sec
S Humphrey - 18min 39sec - 37min 06sec
Mike Twitchett - 18min 34sec - 37min 10sec
Andy Sykes - Punctured DNF

Total time of five finishers - 188min 10sec

OPCC
Name - 1st lap - finish time - club points

Ian Bashford - 16min 05sec - 32min 21sec - 6
Phil Pearson - 17min 16sec - 35min 00sec - 5
Iain Hawthorn - 17min 28sec - 35min 13sec - 4
Andrew Green - 17min 34sec - 35min 22sec - 3
Wojciech - 17min 59sec - 36min 21sec - 2
John Mulvaney - 18min 17sec - 37min 03sec - 1
Barry Newman - Puncture DNF

Total time of five finishers - 174min 17sec

So the Old Ports win on the Crowhurst, return leg next Wednesday on the Polhill course.
Cheers - Ian

Wednesday Club Ride 16.06.2010

Just Phil again. Usual route out through Charlwood to Handcross, then a new loop round Cuckfield and Balcombe before Turners Hill, Smallfield, Nutfield to Croydon. Not a fun day. Cold start but tail wind. By the time it warmed-up a bit and the sun came out it was struggle home into a gusty head wind. Still, 63 miles.

Club Runs 12/13.06.2010

Sunday - a rather uninviting and somewhat chilly morning greeted the diminished pack - Phil, John, Paul and Iain all chomping at their (personal) bits. Where to go AND how to get there? Taking the 'path-of-least-resistance', one decided to follow 'Wed's-Wobb' route with a twist (with MY dodgy Hip ??). Anyway along Layhams THEN !(DUN-DUN-DUN !) eschewing the 'habit-of-a-life-time'turned right at Blackmans Lane to the White Bear, then right, past St Leonards Church and onto Farleigh Common, into Warlingham THEN, down Bug Hill, thence, through Woldingham Valley and into the oft mentioned Woldingham' Girls School environs DIIING-DOOOONG ! (thankfully vacated for the W/E ). Out onto the foot of Gangers, into old Godstone, onto the old A22 thence the climb of The Interdent (past Mr Angry's house of a few years back !!) then, onto the romantically named Rabies Heath Rd ! and left towards (I think) Wytch Cross through the Farm/Bridle Path , taking care to take the right so's not to end up at the derelict farm and onto Outwood Common and the Windmill - here, several of the 'youngsters' insisted that they knew the way, and then had to chase to catch the body-Portly (just one of the advantages of being the only one that knows where 'we're' going )
On to Blindly Heath then past the Red Barn to 'Occasionally Yours' and the Cafe near Lingfield. One of our party must have been concerned to his ability, as a DOUBLE Espresso was ordered. By now the Sun had made an appearance, and layers of attire were removed (steady !) Then past Lingfield Race Course into St Pier's, past the School, into Dwelly, onto Honeypot thro' Staffhurst Common down past Moat Place and once again the joy of Pains (by name AND nature ), down to Moorehouse, up the obstacle course that is Clackets Lane, along the Pilgrims, up Polhill (where some where nearing the end-of-their(respective)-tether ). Then, plan A, ALL scaled Knockholt and to The Spinning Wheel - here Paul suffered from a full Bladder and and empty tyre - the mad dash thro' Biggin Hill. Here some turned onto another obstacle course of Blackness Lane (when WILL they finish it !?) and home where John was re-hydrated then he went home - oz!
Saturday - Arriving at Corkscrew Hill one was greeted by Phil and Stu. The usual route was taken at a more 'frantic' pace than is usual and the pack arrived at the cafe just in time for Lucky to arrive telling tales of having dragged himself from his sick-bed so as not to let the side down. We were then treated to the contents of his medicine cabinet, just so we could see just how much he suffers for his art !
Shortly after John and his daughter Rachel arrived having been chasing the group just catching sight of the 'Lantern Rouge' disappearing through the park. Fully scoffed up, along came Mike who'd been wandering the environs of Orpington since last Saturday, looking for 'us' (possibly). Then home-wards was wended - oz!

East Sussex CA - G50/89 - 13.06.2010

This course basically starts at Maresfield on the A22, goes south to Boship roundabout, turns and retraces to a roundabout about 1.5 miles south of the start, turns, back out to Boship, turn and back to the start. Although this course has a gift 1.5 mile start, you have to go up that gift at 48.5 miles and the rest of the course is very up and down, with loads of false flats and a very bad road surface throughout.
The weather today was dry, bit chilly to start with, but warming up, with a slight wind although I couldn't figure out which way it was blowing, strange eh.
Two Old Ports entered, Ian Bashford and Andy Green.

Results;
Ian Bashford - 2hr 4min 11sec - avg 24.16mph - 16th place
Andy Green - 2hr 17min 57sec - avg 21.75mph - 35th place

The winner, yet again, was Steve Dennis in a remarkable 1hr 47min 11sec - avg 27.99mph

The organisers were using a screen to publish the results and the Excel format they were using was incredible, after the times were put in, it automatically showed the riders actual position, the vet plus, the handicap position and the vets plus position, I could bore you all with our full results...............but I won't.
Ian

Club Evening TT - 10.06.2010

Windy, overcast and cold, but at least the rain stopped. Only three Old Ports turned up, Ian Bashford, Gary Blunt and David Warne, to be joined just in time by our newest Old Port ( second claim ) Val Place.
Results here »
Cheers - Ian

Club Runs 05/06.06.2010

Sunday - what with many banging their heads on the A1 and the Knockholt environs it was left to a handful to participate on todays run. Phil, Austen and Graham who was keen to see what was on offer. Where to go ??? A good pace was set by Austen up Layhams and Beddlestead. Graham decided (wisely) that the pace was just a little too keen for his present state of fitness, so he returned home (he had to be home early anyway ).
Down Botley and into Clacketts where the holes hadn't healed (oddly !), over Moorhouse, down Trevereaux, around the back of Crowhurst, down Dwelly, thro' St Pieres to Dormansland it was here that Austen, keen to do "laps of the Ashdown" for his pending 'Etape' pressed on (for a brief moment, we were tempted to join him but it soon passed as 'we' felt 'we'd' be more of a hindrance than a help). So, back towards Dwelly (where a couple of ladies on bikes probably 'training for the London-to-Brighton where scared to within an inch of their Granny-Gears by Phil's stealthy approach ).
Down towards Edenbridge where Edenbridge Golf Club was tentatively entered to see if they'd cater for scruffs !! The lure of Portly-Cash was far too much to turn down and a convivial hour was spent, sitting on the terrace, dining on Coffee and an excellent toasted BLT double-decker whilst the merits of PROPER sport over Golf was discussed (an excellent venue for future - indoors language ONLY please !, no studs on the Parquet. (Disco, I'll bring a Coffee out to you !!))
Sated, home was sought back along Dwelly, Staffhurst Wood, Itchinwood Common and the fun that is Pains Hill. here Phil was given his head and it wasn't till a regroup was formed that Phil realised he'd scaled the dizzy heights of Pain's on his big ring (53 !!! non of yours soft Southener nancy-boy Compact outer !!!). Back along Clackets, along Pilgrims to Polhill where the craic was whipped Phil dragging the Groupetto to 5mins:15sec meaning Phil must have been well inside 5 min - not bad for a 'racing fit' par 6 mins climb.
Here, a carefully hatched plan fell to bit's whence the 'previously agreed' ride back thro Halstead/Knockholt/Biggin went wrong as Phil carried on down Badgers/A21 and no matter how slow one went he was never seen again (perhaps Pol was 'Col-too-far' ?).One then 'enjoyed ' mixing 'it' with an offshoot of the Dulwich Paragons including a Female Lady on a full Lo-Pro !!!!v(on a club-run !!???)
Then, home for Tea and Crumpet - oz!
Saturday - A hot and sunny day arrived, and one arrived at Corkscrew Hill to be greeted by John, Phil, Ian, Graham, Simon, Stu and at the 11th - 3/4 hour - Mike.
The 'usual' route was followed, Chelsfield Lane and Old Hill enjoyed except Stu who went off to do a bit more and, somewhere between Orpington By-Pass and the A21 Mike was lost even re 're-trace failed to find him (wonder where he went ??) bUt as he knew where the Eco' Caf' was, agreed he'd join us there ?? (he didn't !!). Into the Caf 'then we went home - oz!

Hitchin Nomads 25 - F1B/25 - 06.06.2010

The F1B/25 starts at Tempsford on the A1 and is basically 12.5 miles south, over three roundabouts, turn and 12.5 miles north, over three roundabouts. The return leg is quicker than the outward one, due to a couple of upward drags, so you have to dig in on the outward leg.
Today was dry and warm with little wind, almost a float day. Three Old Ports made the one and a half hour drive up the A1(M), Barry Newman off at 0647hrs, Dave Hickman off at 0737hrs and Ian Bashford off at 0746hrs.

Our results:
Barry Newman - 1hr 3min 26sec - avg 23.65mph
Dave Hickman - 1hr 4min 27sec - avg 23.27mph
Ian Bashford - 57min 20sec - avg 26.16mph

The winner was Rob Weare of Lemington C & AC in; 52min 30sec - avg 28.57mph

Club Evening TT - 03.06.2010

It was a dry, warm and very sunny evening with a bit of a breeze. We had thirteen riders this evening, YES 13!! A remarkable turnout, I even had to put on my parking attendants hat, so as we left enough space for the ping pongers - Sheena spoke to them and they were happy with our efforts. On the subject of Sheena tonight was her first solo flight at timekeeping and armed with her impressive result sheet she did a splendid job.
Sadly we had four DNF's, three due to punctures and the other going just very slightly off course.......on the second lap I'll have you know...........to Endenbridge!!!!
Wojciech also had a near miss with a car, causing him to relieve himself of his steed, after going wide on a bend, gladly without incurring any injuries with the bike only suffering from a few abrasions.

Results here »

There you have it - a marvelous evenings entertainment and it was rounded off with Dave buying us supper in the shape of crisps and nuts, as by the time we got to the pub, after waitng for our intrepid explorer to re-appear, the kitchen was not taking anymore orders.
Chaps and Esses - with regard to het time we start, because of the marvelous turnout of recent weeks, we will hand numbers out at 7.30pm and send the first rider off at 7.45pm sharp. I suggest for the next four weeks, then 15mins earlier for the following four. With the last few in August starting between 7pm and 7.15pm......................otherwise we will need lights on the second lap !
Cheers - Ian

Club Ride 02.06.2010

Lovely day today for just John and Phil on the Wednesday Ride.
Croydon, Chipstead, Kingswood, Box Hill, Dorking, Newdigate, Charlwood, Horley, Smallwood, South Godstone, Tandridge, Tandridge Hill Lane, Botley Farm and then John home via Layhams and West Wickham and me via Warlingham to Croydon.
Only 52 miles for me but that was just right after an iffy week.

Brighton Mitre 10 - G10/97 - 31.05.2010

Myself and Colin entered the road bike section of this event. It was a new course for me but Colin was runner up last year for the road bike prize. There was a whole series of mini competitions going on with a hilly 10, mid gear, tandem, ladies and 'bling' on offer.
The boys and girls from Brighton Mitre were let down by the caretaker for the hall in Steyning but did a great job of setting themselves up al fresco. I have to say I am very glad there was a sports centre open nearby with a public toilet otherwise the hedgerows of Sussex may have suffered today.
The G10/97 kicks off along the A283 just before Steyning, over a couple of roundabouts then turn outside Worthing and head back. It looks like it should be quick as there appears to be 1/2 mile gift start, there are not that many rtb's to get around etc. However its reputation suggested otherwise.
Even with the wind behind us on the way out the road felt a bit dead. Strangely for me it was after the turn with the wind in my face that a found my rhythm.
No idea about any other catagories but Colin powered home with a 25.05 I believe edging ahead of last years winner- But I am afraid he was bridesmaid again. Tim Stevens from 34th Nomads turned up and came in with a long 23. I registered a far from ballistic 26.58 but as I had 50 odd miles in my legs from yesterday I am claiming that i can see the green shoots of recovery.
Overall really good event, Brighton Mitre have clearly gone to some trouble to be a bit creative which is to be applauded.
Andy

Club Runs 29/30.05.2010

Sunday - Dave, Andy,John (feeling better ?) and (a mate of Paul's) Ian arrived for 'fun-in-the-lanes' (no Phil - too dry ??)
Now, en-shewing the usual Beddlestead route, the 'Saturday route' was picked TO ONCE MORE SEARCH FOR THE NORTH-EAST PASSAGE FOR EL DOR-SPEEDGATE. Once into Shoreham, Gary was espied, coming the other way in the company of strangers (well, I didn't know 'em). To the A25 and Fackenden, this assaulted, a re-group and, (having consulted the map) Magpie Bottom (oooer mmissus !) was taken
Now, I have taken this backwater once before but this was over 20 years ago and it was all a bit of a mystery now. Said road takes a steep plunge into the valley, followed (unsurprisingly !) a steep climb out the other side. Considering it's only (just) a single-track road and VERY bucolic, it's in a very good state of repair, with very little potholes and detritis and struck me as being very 'Devon-ish'. At the other end confusion arose, the map looked at then Ian said "I know the way" (good chap ) a left, a right several more junctions and the 'far' end of Knatts Valley was reached and, the assault of Tinkerpot Lane hill, West Kingsdowne and familiar lanes around Brands Hatch were re-discovered into Speedgate wot woz once again HEAVING.
Coffee and Egg'n'Bacon rolls were consumed (Dave trying to decorated himself in the process ). Andy decided the temptation of 'Energy supplements' in the shape of a Jelly Worm was tooooo much to refuse (you can take the Kid out of Croydon BUT(etc). Fully revitalised home-wards via Farningham, Einsford and the long pull up Lullingstone was enjoyed approaching Chelsfield the dulcet tones of 'Whispering Ron Keeble' were heard who then proceeded to 'race' 'us' up the climb. When it levelled out Dave was treated to more B*** S*** than that at a Sewerage Farm (and you think I go on !) he left us around the Orpington By-Pass (thank god !). A Red Letter Day non-the-less - the first time in 40+ years he called me Dave !!!!!! - it's usually several other 4 letter words). FAME AT LAST ! Down to the A21, then an enquiry "does anyone fancy going home via Knockholt ?" All agreed (Dave needs the miles anyway), up Rushmore THEN, ever eager to show the 'pretty way', a right along Blueberry Lane, right to Fairtrough and Washneys, New Years Day Lane and Letts Green popping out by the 'Tally-Ho'. Dave went home via Knockholt whilst the rest tore off down thro' Biggin, at Blackness Lane, Ian carried off home, whilst the rest negotiated the Cobbles at the entrance (due to a road-works barrier where there ain't none !!) and home - deep joy
oz!
Saturday - For once, the Weather Man got it right and at 1000 the rain started, not too much, but enough. Boldly one went, to meet the club run and sure enough, at 'that' side of Downe there they where, 'they' being Phil (whom assured me that, "Now I own a set of mudguards rain shall not wither me " and proceeded on even though it started to rain just as he left home, and Wodjieck, Stu and Sheen. John had arrived at Corscrew but an appearance of the 'Pollards Hill Palpitations' forced him to return home !
Then, nearing Knockholt Owen joined the run. Now this week was going to be Sheena's go at attempting Chelsfield Lane and Old Hill IN ONE GO !! But, due to the precipitations the gang all had had enough (apart from Stu, who carried on to Bowdens) and took the (shorter) route via the A21 to the cafe. Soggy, we then went home.
oz!

VTTA (Kent Group) 30 - Q30/2 - 30.05.2010

This is only my third 30mile TT, both the others were on Q courses spookily. Todays event was on the Q30/2 - a newish course by all accounts. It starts near Kingsnorth, does a southerly loop on a minor road to the A2070 at Ham Street, north on the A2070 turning at the most northerly roundabout before the Ashford road, south to Brookland roundabout, turn, north to the Ashford road then left, looping back around past the start, finishing nearly a mile further on.
All I can say is ... not for the faint hearted, especially if it's windy in Bromley, cos if it's windy here, it's very windy on Romney Marsh and believe me it's not flat either!!
One OP entered - I managed to ride the course in 1hr 14min 30sec, avg 24.16mph, giving me a vets plus of 13min 25sec. Now with it being a VTTA event the winner is the rider with the most plus on standard, so my plus gave me 10th place and spookily 10th on actual time as well.
The winner was Carol Gandy ( Born to Bike ) with a plus of 22min 54sec, actual time of 1hr 18min 20sec, avg 22.98mph. She was also given fastest lady, bizarre to have a lady win the main event when they have a ladies prize. Maybe it was because it was the Kent Group champs.
The fastest actual time was Kevin Tye ( Data Team Allstars ) - 1hr 4min 29sec, avg 27.91mph
Ian

Eastbourne Rovers CC 10 - G10/87 - 29.05.2010

The rain held off but there was a head-on breezy leg down to Boship RBT. A small field of only 38. On the result sheet -

Barry - 25.31

Winner - 20.19 - P Tadros

Club Evening TT - 27.05.2010

Another great showing with 11 starters at the evening TT in Crowhurst on 27/05/10. A bright evening with a bit of a cold breeze.
A good ride by Colin, next week I expect a 32.15. It was also a pb for Val, so a great night all round.
Results here »

Spring Majorca Trip

Tuesday 11 May 12:40 Gatwick Airport, and a cast of two Old Portlies and two friends of the OP's due to leave old Blighty for warmer climes (climbs !). Gary Blunt, Colin 'Mig' Hathaway, Kevin 'Gerb' Smith and Pete 'Little Legs' Smith (no relation) to be accurate.
17:30 hrs the same day and several libations later, four rather disshevelled individuals finally boarded the plane for Palma! Further libations followed upon arrival and a rather late night was had by all.
Bikes arived Weds lunchtime and duly tested on Weds afternoon on a rather lumpy 35 mile 'test' route. Further rehydration on Weds evening and plenty of bravado regarding the following days ride.
Thurs morning saw the fantastic four set off for a rather challenging day in the saddle (approx 6 hours), most of which seemed to be up and very little of which seemed to be down (physically impossible on a round trip I will admit but that's how it felt !). Several climbs of 7km+ at between 5% and 10% took their toll, a total of just over 55 miles, and much rehydration was required upon return !
Friday had been earmarked as a slightly easier day to wind down the legs for the flight home that evening, but instead turned into another 40 mile series of climbs and hair-raising descents, some of which completed without a full compliment of spokes!
Bikes collected and bags packed there only seemed one course of action left before the flight home.........more rehydration !
A thoroughly enjoyable few days away and even some useful training miles completed.
Larger party for next years jaunt perhaps ?

Wojciech - Edinburgh Marathon - 23.05.2010

Race day started with perfect weather, 19C, cloudy. Weather kept like this for about hour. From 9:50 I was keeping my target pace easily until hell came from sky. 24C, no shadow - I was feeling like on fry pan (not only me, some got fried and were taken by meds). After 4hr 10min, hectolitres of water (on and in me), few bags of jelly beans I crossed 26.2 mile marker. Rest of sunday I spent in bed.
Woke up stiff, sore and red like crab, every step is a challange, but I'm very happy, I finished my first marathon!

Club Runs 22/23.05.2010

Sunday - Three new machines were waiting to to greet the assembled assemblage at Corkscrew Hill - there was Phil with his new 'Retirement pressy' (to himself) on his Specialized, Colin on his 'intermediate' Spec' and Dave on his new Condor 'Spinal Tap' bike (so dubbed 'cos it's got a gear lever that goes all the way up to Eleven !! see, most only go up to Ten but this one (well you get the gag?????)
In addition to the above, Ian, Iain, John and Mark were briefly joined by Disco (who used to be a racer when he belonged to a racers club on his way home. Quaintway's @ Penshurst via our usual course via Beddlestead, Limpsfield, Crowhurst, Lingfield and "The-Land-That-Time (etc), on the way getting tangled with the Avanti. Cowden, Finchcocks this time getting involved with frisky Horses/Riders a couple of times (the 'Tail-end-Charlies' getting the worstest of it ) into Penshurst, where the 'Sprint' was fiercely contested and into the Cafe where we were served by the delightful Daisy.
Here ambrosial nectar was quaffed whilst Bashers, bored with the usual fayre supped an exotic cocktail, a mixture of Coffee and Tea !(named T-offee of C-ea ?) an acquired taste
After this into Penshurst Place, Leigh and approaching Wealde Village and Hubbards a 'Touristy' type was slowly reeled in, and, whilst Colin was given a head start (he's not very fit ) the Touristy type buggered off up Hubbards never to be seen again !!
On thro' Riverhead and Polhill this time I think the heat had taken it's toll and most if not all had 'empty-Leg' syndrome and were glad to get home for a shower and a cold beer, TIRED BUT, NOT SOOOOOOO tired that I watched the Golf - Oz!
Saturday - a some what depleted (many racing, others doing something else and Sheena being unable to attend due to a previous appointment - doing something communal with Fuzzy-Felt (or some which).
There were Oz, John, Owen and Les and the return of the Simon - "Forgive me Oz for it has been many weeks since my last club-run". Absolution was given with three "Hail Bashers" and a penance of riding to London Bridge several times a week. Apparently, he's been proper poorly. Anyway the usual usual followed - Simon particularly enjoyed Chelsfield Lane followed by Old Hill - to the Cafe and then home.

Southern Counties - G10/57 - 22.05.2010

This course uses basically 5 miles either side of the Crawley turn of the 25mile course, it starts in Rusper Rd, then A264/ A2220 to Broadfield roundabout, turns, then back to Rusper roundabout, finishing at a layby about half a mile further on.
Five Old Ports entered and five rode. It was a good morning, not cold with sunshine and mist!? The event started at 0632hrs.

Results in order of start times;
No 22 - Colin Hathaway - 23min 58sec - avg 25.03mph
No 24 - Phil Pearson - 25min 30sec - avg 23.53mph
No 42 - Ian Bashford - 23min 6sec - avg 25.97mph
No 44 - Paul King - 25min 23sec - avg 23.64mph
No 47 - Andy Green - 26min 36sec - avg 22.56mph

Paul and Phil both had PBs since their returns. Phil won first handicap.

The winner was R Burbidge Redhill CC - 20min 53sec - avg 28.73mph

Club Evening TT - 20.05.2010

It was a warm and sticky night, eight riders participated with the magnificent duo of Sheena and Oz looking after everybody - marking the road, handing out and collecting numbers, organising starting order, holding up/pushing off, timekeeping - and all the other stuff.

Results here »

There you have it chaps, another very good turnout, may it continue!!

Club Run 19.05.2010

Just Phil for the Wednesday club ride this week - lovely weather. Usual route to Charlwood then, to avoid all the gravel in the lanes around Rusper, route to the south of Crawley to Pease Pottage, Handcross, Turners Hill, Lingfield, Crowhurst, Oxted, Westerham, Biggin Hill, Keston to Croydon. 68 miles.

Club Runs 15/16.05.2010

Sunday - after Saturdays veritable Cornucopia of Portly posteriors Sunday was a completely different kettle of meat with many of the 'usual suspects' off banging their (collective) bonces around the roads of the SE it was left to the stalest of warts to support the club-Run
Arriving at Corkscrew Hill the only shiny face to greet one was Mark (OP Casuals why hasn't he taken advantage of the OP's freebie??) Anyway, whilst contemplating the number of refuseniks from Sat's run one had steeled ones loins to 'do my 50' as default seeing how far one was off ones 'usual' time (when I was younger not to mention !) you know.
Limpsfield, Crowhurst, Lingfield, Cowden, Chiddinghurst, Ides and Polhill. It wasn't one of my better days and spent most of the time trailing Mark and being more of an Anchor (with an Capital A !!) than usual particularly enjoying Blowers Hill and Ide. Still , furthest ride one's done WITHOUT a Caf' stop - Oz
Andy did the Castle Ride with Austen and some friends - felt good to get a decent ride under my belt though every time the road went up I went straight out of the back.
Nice moment at the feed though. Some random chap came up and said 'I have been reading a book by an Old Portlian, about the end to end, absolutely inspiring'. This provoked the chap I had been talking with (don't know his name - CCCP kit and tache) to chime in with 'oh yes I have read it as well, couldn't put it down'. So Les clearly your words are having an impact in the cycling world outside the confines of this little club. Well done.
Saturday - A big turn-out even without some of the Saturday stalwarts. Out today were Stu, Ian, Bazza, Rupert, Wojciech, Phil, Graham, the one and only Oz back from his hols, Derek, Sheena and Owen. Various routes were followed by different groups but all ended-up at the cafe were Nicky turned up too.

Worthing Excelsior CC 25 - G25/53 - 16.05.2010

Normal Horsham course as previously described. Today was in time trialling terms a perfect day for it, although for the early starters a bit on the chilly side.
Two Old Ports were entered, Phil Pearson and Ian Bashford, Phil off at 0702hrs and Ian at 0711hrs.

Results:
Phil Pearson - 1hr 6min 28sec - Avg 22.57mph
Ian Bashford - 1hr 1min 18sec - Avg 24.47mph

The winner Steve Dennis - East Grinstead CC - 52min 21sec - Avg 28.65mph!!!!!!

Denmead 400 - 15.05.2010

7am start at Denmead once more saw Chris and friend Graham take on the Denmead 400. Headed NW towards Salisbury and our first control stop after 79km, just 5mins here and off again through Frome and to and down Chedder Gorge at 156km. Decided here much to Grahams dismay to turn round and do the 3 mile climb up again, just to see !!!
Then on again to Weston-super-Mare and halfway at 202km. Stopped here for a much needed rest and food stop but 30 mins later off to and through Glastonbury on route to Wincanton at 277km, ever onwards towards Romsey and our last control at Ower services and a Big Mac!
Could smell the finish now and the last 47km in darkness was cold, and I was really tired, but it soon passed and was happy to step off the bike at 12.20am with the Cateye reading 251miles and 14.9av, 17.5 hours out is a long time and the route was a bit more main road than the 300 so more traffic and not so scenic.
Now for the 19th June and the 600 !!! Anyone ??? Diplo (everything aches)

CC Bexley 10 - Q10/22 - 15.05.2010

This morning at 7.58 am Paul left the timekeeper of the Bexley CC 10 on Q10/22 (Lenham-Charing-Harrietsham). Bazza was there a few weeks back and Bashers did a storming ride (short-mid 22?) there last year. Oz has probably done a short 19 there when the racing was soooooo much HARDERER than it ever could be again and ever wOZ.
I crossed finish line exactly 26.30 mins later. Improved 25 seconds since Tuesday's ride on G10/42. With that rate of improvement each week, I am National 10 mile TT Record Holder by September.
A pleasant morning it was, if a little cold at 8.00am. I found it fast going out (v slightly wind assisted) but resistant coming back, made a trifle irksome by the right hand aero bar working loose as I came out of the Charing RAB preventing me from using that position. I can't wait to get back there for another go in the Gravesend CC event in mid-June as the downhill finish was a right old treat. I might even pop down one Wednesday for a Wigmore evening 10. Gears were better today and I didn't stall as I did midway through my last outing.
I had to leave early to get back to Falco HQ and at that time Dr Will Manger of Sevenoaks Tri was leading the field with 20.58. Everybody else in the fast blokes club (eg Reg Smith) was posting times in the mid 22s.

Club Evening TT - 13.05.2010

Thursday evening TT, a dry evening, with a bit of wind, but sunshine though still a little chilly.
Sheena came along as promised to timekeep and Oz arrived in time to assist Sheena with the timekeeping by adding another watch into the equation and do the pushing off.
Nine riders took part, seven Old Ports and two others.

Results here »

Well done all, see you next Thursday - Bashers

Club Run 12.05.2010

Phil and Stuart were the Wednesday club ride this week. Same route as last week to start - Coulsdon, Chipstead Valley, Kingswood, Charlwood but then various rambles in the lanes between Charlwood, Rusper, Faygate etc. including a jaunt across the 25 TT course for a short loop through St Leonards Forest.
Met-up with ex-Old Port Dave Hickey now of Crawley Wheelers and rode along with him for a short while. Lucky to miss the showers so the only bad point - there's always one isn't there ? - was road maintenance in several of the lanes - tar sprayed/gravel spread/lots of loose stuff. Still, no harm done. Very pleasant hard work. 60 miles or so for me, nearer 90 for Stu.

Addiscombe CC Evening Club 10 - 11.05.2010

I went to the Addiscombe CC Club 10 on the N Holmwood - Beare Green and back course and the following was the outcome:
Me - 26.55 (14 out of 23 starters), not great but an improvement on my SCCU all time worst 10. Nearly 4 minutes slower than my all time course best for the Dorking course in September 1991. Winner Time - 23.46 (the only 25 mph ride) Sylvain Garde
I was officially off at 8.05 which actually was 8.15 in fading light and in falling temps. I wore my Berghaus fleecy gloves and rode my going to work bike with clip-ons.
I felt comfortable and held off my minuteman (who went onto a 24.17 wearing pointy hat and spinning a disc) until just before the turn RAB and then stalled a bit in an oversized, over confident gear, but got the gears, the cadence and the breathing right again on the drag step up to Mid-Holmwood and then found myself crazily undergeared in the last mile as I found myself freewheeling in 53*14 into the last 600ms downhill to the lovely finish. The 2.75 miles in between (including the Beare Green RAB) need work as I found them hardgoing to say the least!! But it's all a learning curve.
The traffic was light but in places a bit unpredictable and I give you Il Falco's traffic flow theory: Tuesday 8.30-9.30 is mainly about single blokes on their way to see their girlfriends or husbands late getting back home from theirs!! The whiff of Lynx and the soap from a hasty shower lingered on the air as they whipped past me going North was the evidence your honours. Ooh controversial Il Falco, controversial!

Norwood Paragon CC 25 - G25/53 - 09.05.2010

The normal Horsham 25mile course today, Broadbridge Heath to Crawley to Southwater to Broadbridge Heath.
A somewhat chilly overcast morning with a strengthening NE wind, obviously making one way hard and the other way.....well not quite so hard.
We had five Old Ports entered, Colin Hathaway, Iain Hawthorn, Phil Pearson, Barry Newman and Ian Bashford

Results:
Colin Hathaway - 1hr 2min 46 sec - avg 23.897mph
Iain Hawthorn - DNS
Phil Pearson - 1hr 7min 23sec - avg 22.261mph
Barry Newman - 1hr 6min 24sec - avg 22.59mph
Ian Bashford - 1hr 1min 18sec - avg 24.47mph

The winner was Michael Coyle ( Brighton Mitre CC ) 54min 30sec avg 27.523mph

Colin is to be congratulated as he won his group and �10!!

Club Runs 08/09.05.2010

Sunday -

The Contenders

Austin Reid (dropping in for a quick and short recovery following hard Ashdown chaingang yesterday)

Wojciech (recovered from Tour of the A22 and A23 and renamed Voice Check by Gary Blunt)

Iain (must be back home for 1.00 to multi-task watching Bradley hang onto the Maglia Rosa and work on International Banking Recovery Plan on his laptop)

Paul (must be back home by 1.00 for swim with kids, looking for a quickish hilly circuit and acting as unofficial run leader for the morning)

Ian Ward (avoiding the decorating and invited by Il Falco who he works with. Ian might join but then again might not! But be warned he is hardened by year after year of cranking out big weekend mileages in the North French and Belgian Randonnees and Sportives)

Gary Blunt (must be back home by 12.00 or else for gardening and pub duties)

Keith and a friend joined us at the top of Beddlestead but had to go home they as were only on a quick one from Clapham. I am sort of glad, as Keith's friend looked quite healthy in that all round natural athlete kind of way and may have added even more vigor to proceedings

The Route

usual tear up to Beddlestead summit departing at 9.36 by my watch

down to Pilgrims then along via Otford past Kemsing (Gary and Austin departed for home before the end of this stretch)

turn up to the top of the Downs along the climb up the Downs just before Exedown (as per a club run of 3 weeks ago) to pop out at the top of Exedown

swift punt along the top then down Knatts Valley

up over Farningham and then along to Eynsford

turn right up HalfPenny Lane to go over Crockenhill and down to the Crays

then Poverest, Petts Wood, Jubilee Park, Southlands Road (Ian Ward dropped at his door), Chatterton Conservation Area, A21 (Voicek departed for home), Norman Park and the bonus climb of Mead Way for Iain and Paul

Notes and Comments of Significance

Reasonable turn out on less than hopeful morning (bet it was bleak down at Horsham)

15 mph average to Beddlestead summit (PK, AR, IW) on front to top of Layhams, AR making the climb from the valley bottom to Beddlestead summit a lone effort.

AR's puncture before Otford (damnation on that expensive Zonda and Vittoria wheel tyre combination, AR will have to remake his manicure after the battle to separate tyre from wheel)

Fairly rapid return from the top of Exedown (55 minutes I think) to West Wickham with valiant efforts to hang in there on the hills and work on his conditioning from Iain and Wojciech defying the normal laws of gravity by demonstrating that Big Blokes Can and Do Go Up Hills Quickly. We jointly developed 21-25mph all the way along to Farningham valley road into a rising wind for example.

No time for caf� stop so we plugged on without a break

That's all folks. For what it is worth I got exactly what I wanted out of the ride this morning - a jolly nice workout and the camaraderie of the OP Sunday Gladiators. Great value for money this club cycling lark!!
Paul
Saturday - Ian waited at the bottom of Corkscrew, overcast with wet roads, but not raining. I waited till 1035 am for the expected throng of riders to arrive because we have a club ride on a Saturday, it's written down. Well nobody else showed up, so I set off. At Keston Church I was met by Stuart, who apparently had been running late, so went straight to Keston, he was surprised it was just me. We pressed on to be met by Sheena in Berry's Green Road - we were know three and still dry.
The usual route was followed and Sheena was encouraged to do the boys route, so down Timberdeen and up Chelsfield Lane we rode. Sheena was pleased to be able to cross off that little ascent. The Eco cafe' was reached ( still dry ) and sustinance was consumed. Sheena went her way home, with Stuart and I together till Locksbottom, where we split. It was my last mile or so that I got wet, basically from Baston School Hayes to Bromley.

Club Evening TT - 06.05.2010

Fantastic turnout guys, I am still quite heady thinking about last night.
First evening TT of the year and we get 12 people turn up, 10 actually riding. Before I post the results a big thank you to Sheena for volunteering to do the timekeeping every week, all we need is for one individual to assist her every week until she feels that she doesn't need anybody, I showed her the ropes last night and Phil Pearson has volunteered for two weeks time, so who's up for helping her out next week?

Anyway Thursday 6/5/10 was a bright sunny night although there was a cold wind blowing. Wojciech couldn't get on a train at London Bridge with his bike so rode down. Not only that, he got to Purley and went down the A23 instead of the A22, got to Coulsdon, realised he'd gone wrong and then went across country to Caterham etc.

Results here »

Well there we have it a fine display, if every week has a similar turnout we will have a great series. Remember best six rides count towards the evening ten cup.

Club Run 05.05.2010

The inaugural Wednesday club ride left Croydon at 10 this morning with Phil, Stuart and John.
Coulsdon, Chipstead Valley, Kingswood, Leigh, Charlwood, Horley, Smallfield, Blindley Heath, Tandridge, Tandridge Hill Lane, Botley Farm, Warlingham, Sanderstead to Selsdon where Stuart headed off towards West Wickham, Phil to Croydon and John to Streatham. 50 miles for me, 75 for Stu. A good steady ride with a couple of hills to test us.

Sussex CA 25 - G25/93 - 02.05.2010

HQ is a long way away and I arrived with not much time to spare - a Dave Hickman start !
I started off in the dry but soon turned wet and breezy. Got to the last roundabout at Shoreham but went off course by taking too early slip road (Doh) - must have cost a minute by the time I realised no riders were passing.

B Newman 1.9.17
M Hutchinson 51.12 winner

Must say result board screen projector was something else

Club Runs 01/03.05.2010

Monday - Three met up at Corkscrew Hill for a postponed Sunday ride - Wojciech, Phil and Chris (Diplo) (who made it clear he was also out in the rain on Sunday !). Layhams, Beddlestead, Clacketts, Pains Hill, puncture for Wojciech - again, and lanes to Edenbridge, Markbeech to Penshurst for coffee. Then Yorks Hill is mentioned by Chris. Phil and Wojciech didn't notice the evil glint in his eye and just nodded "OK".
So, Bough Beech to Yorks Hill. Off goes Wojciech, Phil in steady pursuit, Chris noticeably and knowingly hanging back - really tricky keeping the power on on the damp, gritty road. Just as Phil is catching Wojciech we both run out of steam and stop. Chris comes pedalling past, Phil gets going again, even gets clipped in, hill gets steeper, very difficult to get even power through front and back, pulls front wheel off the ground and ends up in a heap on the road ! Phil and Wojciech complete the hill on foot, Wojciech taking great interest in the hill location so as to try it again sometime - future club rides please note.
Then back by the usual roads until a track up the east side of Polhill is tried - easy compared to Yorks, And so back, Chris to Cudham, Wojciech to Sydenham, Phil to Croydon.
Sunday - Rain
Saturday - The weather stayed dry despite the showers forecast and so encouraged Stuart, Phil, Graham and Wojciech PLUS two new riders - Adrian and Raelene - to meet at Corkscrew Hill. Adrian and Wojciech both have the same, new, Specialized machines !
Usual route followed, picking up Sheena along the way. Sheena took Raelene the direct route to the cafe while the boys tackled the extra hilly bit. Only small dramas caused by seemingly a bit more traffic than usual.
Pleasant refreshments and chat outside in the sunshine at the High Elms cafe before we split-up to to ride to Sydenham, Orpington, Croydon etc. - Phil

Sussex CA 10 - G10/97 - 01.05.2010

For those who aren't familiar with it, the G10/97 is a straightforward out and back course which runs from Steyning to Shoreham (and back!). Outward is a fast start followed by a long drag to the turn and back is.......well just the opposite strangely enough!
66 starters but only one OP riding today, so no chance in the team event!! Minor mechanical on the warm up but luckily I was off at a rather late 8.08, so had time to bodge it (remove offending item altogether, who needs a front mech anyway?!), and get on with the race.
Wind in the face on the way out so it must be on my back on the return..........er, no! Bizarrely there was a headwind on both legs, and this was ratified by several others at the HQ post race.

Scores on the doors were:
Winner: Nick Dwyer in 20.50 (Lewes Wanderers)
Colin Hathaway 20th overall and 13th on standard in 23.36

Pretty happy with my performance on a not particularly fast course, although that said this was the best road surface I have ridden on so far this year.
Good luck to Barry Newman who is down to ride the 25 tomorrow in all that weather, AND with Michael Hutchinson in a very strong field.
Colin

Denmead 300 - 25.04.2010

The second of a planned SR series took Chris and my Sydenhan Wheeler friend Graham Ward to deepest Hampshire, and the 7 am start at Denmead, near Portsmouth. Our first stage went NE to a village on the edge of the New Forest and on this leg I saw a hare - only the second one I have ever seen. Quick bite to eat at the stop and headed SW to the coast and the Needles and ice cream at the sea side !
Then turned NE once more to Ringwood and the New Forest ponies, on Westward to Blandford Forum taking in a ride through a graveyard !! Strange !! More food here and on north towards Salsbury more ponies, no traffic, a great place to ride your bike. Onwards we went in a westerly direction and with the cateye telling me 130 miles had a real bad 10 miles or so - strange how you can go from feeling ok to struggling in a few miles, but got through it and our last stop before the finish at a garage at a place called Ower.
It was here that a group of youths crossed our paths and one in partiular decided to push his luck. The conversation went as so " your looking very sexy in those shorts sweetie " he says, me "that depends if you're gay", him "What are you doing then ?". I grabbed him round the neck and explained I had ridden 160 miles, was tired, cold, hungry, and didn't need him or his mates exracting the urine and let him go to scurry off back to his mates and reinforcements. To my suprise they all returned to shake my hand and enquire as to my sanity and the Old Portlians !
And so onwards to finish and a very tired journey home. For the record 197 miles covered at a tad under 15mph - Diplo the very tired.

Club Runs 24/25.04.2010

Sunday - So, all ready, just finishing a second injection of the 'cup-that-cheers' whence "What's this upon the oz-pane ?? Rain after a week of balmy-tude !! Another portion of 'Ninja Warrior 3', "I'll wait till it stops ,and go out later", THEN, what about poor old Dangerous ? He'll already have got a soaking and I imagined him, all forlorn, turning up at Corkscrew Hill all soggy and alone. THEN, it eased off a bit, just in time for the roads to drain a bit - off to Cork', and there Iain and Wojciech (blimey, I'll never get me head 'round that !!, quick give him a nick-name ) and shortly Dangerous all soggy AND appearing to have put every piece of Winter clothing he had on !
A quick straw poll and Dave decided he'd like to go to Il Falco's favorite 'Quaintways' @ Penshurst. Off along Layhams to Beddlestead. Nearing the top Wojciech's first puncture (front), this repaired with the aid of Iain's CO2 pump whilst Dave dis-robed and wrung his clothes out (look away Madam !!).
Down White Lane into Limpsfield, down Wolfs Hill and into Hurst Green which hasn't born too well last Winter the state of the road being more of an obstacle course (more Ninja ?) than a public road. Down Gibbs Brook into Crowhurst then Wojciech's second puncture (rear ). The bikes only 2 weeks old so, hardly lack of loving care, just bad luck (still, he's got 2 spare tubes now !). Here Dave once again showed him 'how it's done' assisted again by Iain (whilst yours truly looked on seen it alllllllll (etc)).
Re-fettled off towards Lingfield and Dormansland Then 'The Land-that-time-forgot' ! Thro' Cowden to the crossroads and, seeing as we were 'behind schedule', the extra bit of 'off-road' was shunned and the delights of Blowers Hill was enjoyed instead. Across the top and down into Penshurst and the cafe. Here ample sustenance was consumated. Filled up, and into Penshust Place, Lye and the deepest fun of Scabhorbour, Wealde Village and Hubbards (YUMMY !).
Into Riverhead and entering Dunton Green, from the right appeared the VC Avanti going Lickity-split. Like a Red Rag to a Croupier, the gauntlet was accepted and chase given this proved all a little too much for Dave but the rest took a pasting up Polhill. Re-group and home deeeep of deep joy - oz!
PS - As me and Iain approached Keston, standing on the opposite kerb was Owen Brolly (ante-canvassing) (the things some people do to earn a 'handle' !!). Anyway this being far toooo good an opportunity to turn down, a short halt was called whilst banter issued forth (deep joy) Owen assured us "If (WHEN surely) I become Prime Minister I shall still come out on the Saturday runs tho' 'we' may need a few more chairs at the cafe for his Security Staff !!!"
Saturday - A fresh but dry'n'sunny day greeted the brave. Sheena, good to her word, was waiting for the jolly boys Saturday run - John, Ian and Colin (after their EVEN earlier dashing up'n'down the A21), Stu, the return of Dereck Sloane and Graham and Wodjiek.
The usual route was taken. On the drop down thro' Knockholt we were passed going in the opposite direction by Kevin Lock ( obviously taking a leaf from Sheena's book ) - join the 'run Kev', 'we'll' be gentle with you. Graham and Sheena wisely took the 'short-cut' down Badgers whilst the rest headed towards 'Bowden's' (FYI, Bowden's is 1.4 miles long and yesterday was ridden in 6.75 mins (corner to Bo Peep X roads))
Great fun was taken and we went to the Caf'. Whilst enjoying the early Summer/Spring sun, Mike Howe appeared telling tales of being 'run into from behind' @ the end of his road necessitating driving to the 'Eco Caf' and riding around the lanes til the club arrived. Tthe usual question were asked as to the state of his bike AND just HOW bad his whiplash/dizziness/headaches were ?
Then 'we' went home - oz!

Addiscome CC 25 - G25/53 - 25.04.2010

Entered, in start order, Phil Pearson, Ian Bashford, Iain Hawthorn
Quiet cool morning with sun trying to come out. First man off 06:30
Phil had a schedule for 7:59. Down at first two turns, on from half way. Rain started at Daux on the return leg. Became heavy by Southwater.
Ian was off 30 minutes or so later so most of the race in the rain. Iain was DNS - again !
I normally consume Lucozade Sport before and after race but today at the finish I was wet and shivering ! Dived into the HQ for coffee and cake. When I came out Ian had returned and was obviously not please with his time.

So, scores on the doors -
Phil Pearson - 1:07:41
Ian Bashord - 1:02:43

Winner - Steve Dennis - 52:14

Catford CC 10 - Q10/19 - 24.04.2010

Another chilly start this morning saw temperatures hovering just above freezing for the early starters, making for a difficult ride if you were unlucky enough to get a low start number (Bash). It warmed up to a positively balmy 4 or 5 by the time the later starters got off (Mig). No wind to speak of, a supposedly fast course and sunny if cold conditions....what could possibly go wrong......ah!
Bit of a misunderstanding with the times due to a rather 'confused' starter, meant that many of the late starters were credited with times a minute less than they actually achieved.....with me so far? This led to lots of frustrated riders awaiting results at the HQ and much scratching of heads amongst officials.

This is how I believe it turned out -
Winner: Pete Tadros in a quite astounding 19.23
Ian Bashford - 23.43
Colin Hathaway - 23.28.

Former Old Portlies: Phil Watkins put in a creditable 21 something, and Stuart Hourigan was a DNS due to a migraine.
The OPs times were looking about mid table as I left but confusion was still in the air and Captain Cockup seemed to have taken charge of procedings so who really knows - Colin

Club Runs 17/18.04.2010

Sunday - In the never ending quest to amuse the body Portlians and as the sun had it's hat on, the delights of Chiddingstone was pounced upon the lucky winners being Iain (still suffering from 'Layhams-itis' ?), Il F, Keith, Dave and Mark. We left Corkscrew Hill and, ever keen to amuse, the 'usual' Layhams/Beddelstead was dismissed in favour of 'something completely different' and the Saturday route via Downe and the Spinning Wheel was chosen.
Now on leaving the Park and wending our way via the mean streets of Coney Hall a rider had attached himself to the rear of the Old Ports peloton whom, having missed the Dulwich asked if he may join. We all agreed and pace was forced down Hogtrough into Brastead and the assault of the 'North face of the Toys Hill' scaled. Regrouped, shortly a right was taken into Puddledock thence to Four Elms and Bough Beech 'Village'. Being too early for sleepy Chiddingstone another right through Hever and the long pull towards Mark Beech, then cunningly a left and into the Tea'n'Bun stop
All the while merry banter and jolly japes were liberally flung. Fully sated ( an extra order of Tea Cake being forced down ) we forged for home and another spanner was flung into the proceedings - "How about something new ?". Everyone else, being none the wiser, acquiesced and the assault of Ide was contemplated BUT via the 'Farm' Bridle path popping out about 3/4 of the way up. Another re-group and the push for home again into Sundridge up Polhill, past Badgers, into Farnborough and a last regroup at the lights when the 'newbie' whom had spent the last few hours in Portly company was asked - "Has anyone given you an OP's 'Business' card ?" to which he replied in the negative !!!! Then a replay of the 'Gunfight at the OP's Coral" was acted out as cards were proffered to the new boy - "TAKE MINE !", "NO, TAKE MINE !!" Then, everyone went their seperate ways when it was realised NOBODY had enquired as to his name.!!! DOH ! - Oz
Stuart did his own thing again - only 50 mile today. Left late - did have some company, a Polish guy who I said hello to at the lights in Bromley who had just bought his bike. Anyway, made our way to Green Street Green, then up a sharp short hill, then down Polhill and then up new road that long hill. Onwards to Bessels Green, up the back road then up Star Hill. So a figure of 8 was done then back home. He'll maybe be out with us on saturday.
Saturday - the sun was out, and so were 'you' being Lucky, Stu, Fr Jack and Les AND a veritable Plethora of the 'Ever-Green' Clan - not just Clive AND his Brother John and his Nephew Jack.
NOW, whilst heading in a Westerly direction to meet this veritable cornucopia of Cycling cohorts on approaching The Spinning Wheel I espied a Portly jersey being filled by Aunty Sheena ! She has decided to join the Saturday runs to get fit enough to join the Saturday runs !
Anyway Sheena thought it best that she eschewed the delights of 'Bowden's' for the bye and take the direct route down Badgers and, ever the Gentleman, Lucky volunteered to act as chaperon (?) whilst the rest sallied forth for the fun of Timber Bottom.
Then to the Caf and then home via Farborough and Coney Hall to West Wickham - Oz

Southern Counties CU 25 - G25/53 - 18.04.2010

The G25/53, as you all know it starts and finishes at Broadbridge Heath. A24/ A264 to Crawley, turn then back, taking in Tollgate Hill, past HQ to Southwater, turn, back to finish.
Well originally four Old Ports were entered, Barry Newman, Ian Bashford, Phil Pearson and Iain Hawthorn.
Sadly only two started on a day that was very bright, with blue sky and little wind, the temperature however was between 0.5 and 1 degree, but did warm up later for the finish couple of miles, with Phil off 58 and me off 56, with the top seed off number 80.

Ian Bashford - 1hr 1min 35secs - Avg 24.36 mph
Phil Pearson - 1hr 8min 17secs - Avg 21.97 mph

The winner was Tim Stevens - 34 Nomads - 55mins 29secs - Avg 27.04 mph.

East Sussex CA 10 - G10/87 - 17.04.2010

Freezing fog on the way down to East Hoathley, patches of frost on roundabouts and verges, quick check of watch to make sure it's the 16th April not the 16th Feb ! Ah, that'll be freak weather conditions then, must be the ash !(down)
Starting as I was at 7.42 on the G10/87, I had an incling it might be a bit chilly but certainly not as chilly as it turned out ! The temp according to my cars thermometer read 3c at 7.10 when I left to start my warm up, and I have no reason to think it warmed up by the time I was off.
The G10/87, for those who haven't ventured that far south, is an undulating course with potholes aplenty and would be a challenge to a chap of my build on any day, let alone a freezing cold one. Excuses out of the way I managed a 25.16 and wasn't best pleased until the other results started to trickle in, at which point I realised that not many had enjoyed their early morning 10 !
I finished a fairly respectable 26th out of 69 starters, and 18th on standard (whatever that means!?), top dog was Mr Pete Tadros who positively flew and clocked a 20.50.
With all my excuses I forgot to mention what a well run event it was, the results were displayed on a screen via laptop and projector as they came in, and then emailed to riders before 2pm today. How's that for efficient ? (and nice cake too Oz!)

Redmon CC 25 - G25/45 - 11.04.2010

This course has a combination of single and dual carriageway, it starts in Kingsfold follows the A24 via Clark's Green roundabout to Beare Green, left onto the A29, through Ockley to Broadbridge Heath via Clemsfold roundabout, past HQ then left onto the A24, turn at next roundabout, then A24 to Southwater, turn then retrace to finish at Broadbridge Heath. It is a rolling course.
Today was overcast to start, cold and a stiff breeze was blowing, it seemed that the only bit of the course that was wind assisted was going south on the A24 to Southwater, the last half mile to the finish was into a headwind.
Anyway three Old Ports entered, Barry Newman, Ian Bashford and Phil Pearson.

Results
Barry Newman - 1hr 8min 13secs - avg 21.99mph
Ian Bashford - 1hr 2min 8secs - avg 24.14mph
Phil Pearson - 1hr 9min 30secs - avg 21.58mph

The winner was Laurence Harding www.drag2zero.com in an amazing 53min 33secs avg 28.01mph!!!!!! Nearly a full 2mins to the second place man.
Good rides by Barry and Phil, for me I am still 2mins down on this time last year, so I need to pull my finger out and get back into the groove.

Club Runs 10/11.04.2010

Sunday - Chris did 140 miles to Hythe and around - RESPECT - and Stuart a very respectable 66.
Club run - what a surprise what with several of the 'usual suspects being on 'other' duties I expected a dearth of Porticipants to be at Corkscrew Hill on Sunday. Imagine there were Iain, Andy, Il Falco and Mike back for a second helping, ('others' please take note ) and Keith and Mark and Keith's mate Ali and Austen.
Now, having this 'fixed' runs list left 'us' with no flexibility as to the venue, SO, away from West Wickham along Layhams and Beddlestead then the Pilgrims to turn right at the foot of Polhill towards Shoreham. Thence right and past the Station, onto the A225 then, the fun of Fackenden Lane regrouping at the top. The fabled OZ-map (see what i done there ?) was consulted to try and find the NE passage to Speedgate. I tell you reader, it doesn't exist. On scouting the foothills some confusion reigned but soon all were re-united.
It was at this point that the 'Inner-City ' riders realised that their 'Freedom Pass' was running out and so turned for home leaving the rest to head for another climb ('cos it was there ) on the way being shown the delights of St Cleres. This negotiated, headed back to Old Terry's Lodge, ascended, another regroup and, amidst confusion, found the gang heading for Lullingstone Cafe having lost the plot of finding Speedgate Down Knatts Valley into Farningham, Einsford and L'caf where Mike re-fuelled ready for the loooooong haul thro' Shacklands and 'Bowdens' and his old nemisis of the Alto-de-Farnborough. This scaled, they all went home - Oz
Saturday - After my 'usual' meander around the Surrey/Kent borders, I espied an elderly Gent' who used to ride a bike - Clive J - so settled down on the bench to talk of the 'good ol' days'and just how much better (not to mention harder ! ) it were then, and await the rag-tag-and-flotsum that would be the ... club-run duly came along brave chaps, lead by Stu, closely followed by Bash', Andy, FrJ and Les on his brand new/second hand 'retro bike ,'Diplo (bearing gifts,gawd bless yer Guv'na ) AND, the return of Mike H and Lucky !,
Whilst all and sundry were sporting bare legs (some more Bear legs !) Lucky was wisely attired like Nanook-of-the-North (ne're cast a clout etc) in full Winter gear ! On thro' Luxted/Berrys Green/Hawleys Corner and Knockholt , re-grouping AND SPLITTING AGAIN ! Along the way, Halstead, Badgers, Timber Bottom then 'Bowdens Hill' by this time the 'Spirit of the Saturday run' had been forgot and the assemblage were spread over NE Kent. BUT, all arrived @ the 'Eco Caf', roughly together, where nasturtiums were cast upon my tableature abilities !!! - and home ... Oz!

Tooting CC Sporting 21 - 10.04.2010

A rather chilly start this morning on what has turned out to be a very nice day. So with some trepidation I set off for the Tooting cc 21 (sporting) on the GS/334 (everyone's favourite sporting course I'm sure!).
Early KO for me going off as I did at No.3, and chasing the race organiser and a rather fetching Italian lady at 1 and 2 respectively!
The course was no easier than the last time I rode it some 3 or 4 weeks ago, although the council had replaced some of the missing drain covers which made it slightly less dangerous!
A stiff breeze greeted us at the first turn and stayed in our faces for the whole of the outward (downhill) section of the course and then seemed to disappear altogether on the inward (uphill) section!
Anyway, 2 laps of purgatory later I finished with a 1.01.15 which, as my best time on this course by almost 2 mins, has to be a pleasing result, HOWEVER, a certain Steve Dennis managed a rather swift 49.38 (ish) which I believe is a new course record.
On the plus side, I was first to cross the line !

Easter Club Runs 03/05.04.2010

Monday - due to the previous few days inclemency several OP's were keen to get 'stuck in' - we had Phil (obviously the Monsoon Season in S Croydon had abated), Andy, Bash', Dangerous Dave and Il Falco and Mig.
On consulting the extensive Runs list (just how useful this has proven !!) I noticed 'we' were due to visit Quaintways (how apt ?) @ Penshurst. So, taking an Executive Decision the familliar path along Layhams and B'stead and White Lane was taken. Thence Limpsfield and Spring Lane where the first bit of 'off- road' was enjoyed. Broadham Green and Gibbs Brook dodging liberally sprinkled potholes here AND there, Crowhurst Lane End past the 'Water-Works' (to examine the pock marked corner pre eve' TT's - enjoy !. Lingfield/ Dormansland and into the lanes proper thro Hammerwood/Scarletts Lake. Past the 'Land-that-Time-forgot 'Cowden to Cowden X. On consulting the 'Troops' as to the efficacy of venturing into the even rougher lanes - all agreed. 'What Larks !!' Moat Place, Finchcock Green (past 'one' of my country houses) and the little leg-breaker(Luvly) and into Penshurst for an ample (if expensive (Hobson's choice I'm afraid ))(Mig was force fed Cake, much to his protestations ) repast enjoyed. Thence to Penshurst Place, Leigh (pronounced Lie ), Charcott and the deep joy of AND aptly named Scabharbour Rd (it's been reportedup,(again !!)and the deepest of joy Hubbards (remember lads it's 'only' 1 Mile x-to-x ) which was 'enjoyed' by some more than others. Then thro' the rear of Sevenoaks (missing the usual traffic jams), Riverhead and Polhill/Badgers mount. Farnborough and home - oz!
I must say, the view from the rear was quite impressive 'cos everyone was attired in Red (albeit, not everyone was in OP kit ) and presented an (almost) uniform outfit (quite literally). 'Esprit-de-Ports 'see, it CAN be done
Sunday - A wet start to the day meant that many of us went out on solo rides of some sort later when the weather had improved. Stuart did 50 hilly miles, Phil did just 30, Dave and Oz both got out later too - maybe others ...
Saturday - John, Stuart and Oz braved the grey damp start for the Saturday social run. Usual pattern via usual route, a slight hail shower at the end of the footpath - nothing to put soft Southerners off though. Slight rush to the head on 'Bowdens Hill'. Then to the Eco Cafe and home to West Wickham.

ECCA 25 E9/25 - 02.04.2010

A cold start was the least thing on my mind after a few miles into my first 25 mile TT for a long time. A stiff head wind on the return leg slowed all the times down, in as much as only the winner went under the hour.
Bazza --- 1.10.25
Winner M Astana --- 59.15
Looking forward to the Redmon 25 with a couple of Old Ports for company
Bazza (sore legs)

Eastbourne Weekend 26/28.03.2010

Weekend Group
So Friday arrived and the promised downpour W/E we were promised didn't appear. At Corkscrew Hill the designated assembled, FrJ, Les and Bash to wend their ways to Eastbourne. So we proceeded via Layhams, B'stead ( now 'populated' by a dead deer, badger and a sheep !!). Thence down Bottley, Pilgrims into Brastead then the 'easy' way to Ide Hill Village', down Ide Hill, Howe Green, Hever, Mark Beech ( where the worstest stretch of road surface in the S.E resides !! (reported via F-t-H) Cowden Pound, Cowden, Holtye all the while in quiet lanes (to the chorus of much whingeing !), Hartfield and looking forward to the loooong assault of the Ashdown.
It was here I let the youngsters 'have their head' knowing (through experience) the joy of sitting in a Cafe' in soggy under-crackers ( you will learn Grass-hopper ). Suitably refreshed (and after the 'pleasure' being served by Mrs Fawlty !!) on 'we' pressed via Maresfield, Buxted then, into what I consider the best part of the journey, into the little lanes, Nan Tucks, Waldron, Little London then to pop out just before Horham, towards Hailsham (just as the Schools turned out ... deep joy ). Then the 'fast bit' across the Salt Marshes - only it wasn't, as I may have forgotten to add dear listener, the whole trip was into the teeth of a head-wind !!
The 'fun' was interrupted by temporary roadworks and all the fire went out of it. Regrouping, Stone Cross and the arse-end of Eastbourne with the associated Council Estates and usual urban detritus. Showered, joined by the 'support staff' and El P to the Vic' thence to The Marine for Ribs ( it's funny how you never see any stray Cats about !!).

As 'we' know, Saturdays run is done as a 'El Presidentes' ride, at his speed AND as a 'loosen-er', pending Sundays ride home. It must have been easy 'cos we were joined by Lucky AND Paper-Boy !!! ... ON THEIR BIKES !!!!! Along the Sea-Front to Beachy Head, on the way 'we' passed a new Bentley in White with GOLD Wheels !!! (HOW VERRRRY New-Money !!!??? - probably had Burberry upholstery ) On 'we' pressed, the steep assault of The 'Head' to the Pub at the top ('don't open 'till 11 so, no rush ). Here, in true English tradition, one of our number nearly started a fight in the Car-Park !! (I blame the parents !!). Coffeed up (our bodies ARE Temples after all), 'we' proceeded towards Birling Gap, and for a change, less windy so we never got 'our' wigs blowed oft! Then the 'Rough Estate' where one of our party found it SOOOOO hard, he had to walk the steep bit (I got the Photo'!!) thence to The Seven Bells @ Jevinton for Lunch (where I twice tried to (unsuccessfully ) short-change Mien Host ! ) and to meet the 'Saturday Club'. We arrived ( after a short sojourn whilst P.B mended a puncture ). All arrived at once, lead by Colin closely followed by Dave, Phil, Andy and Paul. Phil leaving this happy breed early to head to E Grinstead and the train to Croydon (lightweight ! ), the rest headed on via Filching and Willingdon, where ElP was 'mugged' for 2x dust-caps! Stone Cross and the Mega Stores and Chavy end of Eastbourne. More 'Vickying' where 'we' were sandwiched twix a Wedding Breakfast and a Rugby do. Outnumbered, 'we' again beat a hasty retreat to The Marine where, as the evening unraveled 'we' were treated to the intricacies of the pros and cons of Metric over Imperial bores and the problem of Parabolistic Ballistics !! It's amazing what you can pick up, when your not interested ! Faces filled and Kidneys damaged ......... we went "home".

Sunday arrived and for a change a glance thro' the window showed a grey but dry day. Having dined on a 'Full English' and assorted bits-n-bobs, bags packed, bike fettled the obligatory 'Team Photo' taken O/S the Bay View by the Guvnor, fond farewells bidden and off we set for home .
Following the outward route (after a 'Democratic' vote) the 'pretty way' via the lanes, mainly to show the 'newbies' just what was available if the 'Drag-Strips ' were avoided. A fair fist of forward motion was made, somewhat helped by the lack of Fridays head-wind. In fact it was a light 'chuff' tho' 'some' were maybe suffering from the previous evenings over-indulgence ??
Once more the caf' at the top of the Ashdowne was utilised (minus Mrs Grumpy, must have been her day off or the sack ). Refuelled, the decent off the top (following a quick fettle of a rubbing 'guard) then the deepest joy of Cotchford/Jibjacks Hill (my fave' !) till Mark Beech, when the route thro' Chiddingstone and Ide hill was tackled. Thence Polhill.
By this time peeps were wending their various ways home and a diminishing groupo-de-Ports eventually got home safe . Another excellent O.P's W/E. Thanks to Lucks for organising the fun'n'frollicks and Steve for being the 'Bag-Carrier' and of course ........"Mainly, yourselves "

Saturday Group
Phil met up with the Saturday Eastbourne trippers at West Wickham - Colin, Paul and Andy. En route to meet-up with Dave at Bagders Mount, Andy managed again to make acquitance of the tarmac ! With Colin up the road a few yards, Paul eased off to check Phil was in-touch. Andy looked back at just the wrong time as Paul slowed and touched wheels. Fortunately Andy landed on his right-hand side this time as Phil - who was on Andy's wheel all the time ! - squeezed through on the inside and passing traffic went past on the outside.
Note not all car drivers are bad news - one stopped and walked back to make sure Andy was OK. `
Andy got away with a couple of grazes and no significant bike damage so off we went after Colin. At Badgers Paul found he'd dropped his new top so went back to find it. Eventually off we set for Eastbourne. No more problems. Phil won the prime on the Ashdown - was anybode else trying ? - or saving themselves more likely. When we got on the A22 Colin went into TT mode. Phil put a lot into trying to catch Colin, managed it but then couldn't hold on - kept thinking about getting home again.
And so to Jevington. Here Dave and Colin totally out-foxed and out-muscled Phil with Colin first to the pub.
After a convivial lunch, Phil set-off North. Lots of showers and wet roads all the way to East Grinstead to get the train to Croydon - 95 miles for me today - a new record for me "in the modern era".

Man of Kent 200 28.03.2010

A planned ride which started from Golden Green (Tonbridge), via Chilham to Sandwich, then across to New Romney, this section in a fierce headwind, struggled badly here for 30 miles and was relieved to get to the cafe stop, beans on toast never tasted so good!!.
From here turned for home taking in the lanes of Kent to Headcorne ( EMERGENCY RED BULL HERE ) and back to Golden Green. 135 miles and my lack of winter miles showed - I was wasted and was counting down the last 20 miles, average speed 15mph.
The ride was organised by St Fairy Ann CC and the food on route was excellent.
Diplo

Club Run 28.03.2010

After planing my route to Titsey Hill I just made it in time for ten. Happy to see a guy in the Old Portlians kit - Iain and Austin.
Iain was not feeling too good and returned home. Was going to go home too but Austin suggested ride with him - the day was not lost - ran into a sportive, Toys Hill - had a chat with a lady - love a girl in cycle gear.
Stu

SCCU Sporting 25 G25/44 - 21.03.2010

This 25 is basically the first half of the G25/45, but twice. Starting in Marches Road, up to the A24, left and follow via Clarks Green and Beare Green roundabouts, left A29 through Ockley to Marches Road ... repeat circuit ... then follow A29 to Clemsfold roundabout left then second left to finish in a very badly surfaced lane. Again a demanding course, more like a course you would expect in Kent.
One OP entered - Ian Bashford - on a much better day, a bit of a breeze but dry.

Result as follows -
Ian Bashford 1hr 3min 19secs 23.69avg

The winner at one point was a joint venture with Steve Dennis and Ben Instone being awarded the same time of 53min 40sec 27.95avg ... however the time keepers put their heads together and awarded the event to Ben Instone as his time was about half a second quicker!!

SCCU Sporting 10 G10/46 - 20.03.2010

This 10mile TT is what the time trialling lot call 'sporting'. It starts in Oakwoodhill, Surrey, from the start the course does a 3mile loop around the little lanes, then past the HQ followed by a scary descent to the A29, climb up through Ockley then left, followed by another climb to Forest Green, then Mayes Green back to the start area. This is a very demanding 10TT.
Anyway three OP's entered, Paul King, Ian Bashford and Barry Newman, Saturday afternoon was not pleasant with a bit of a breeze and rain, combine that with pot holes filled with water and slippery turns................hhmmmmmm scrummy.

Anyway results -

Paul King	31min 31sec	19.04avg
Ian Bashford	27min 25sec	21.88avg
Barry Newman	28min 33sec	21.02avg

The winner was Peter Tadros in 22min 10sec 27.06avg!!!!!!!

Club Runs 20/21.03.2010

Sunday - Following my usual plan of trying to find more varied/different/interesting routes/venues I decided that we would sample the delights of Knowle Park (Sevenoaks). The assembled Portisipants comprised of Iain, Mig,FrJ, Dangerous AND the welcome return of Andy (he now has the new persona of a Cage-Fighter being padded - just in case !)
As is our wont, the usual route of Layhams and Beddlestead was followed then to Brastead and the scale of Ide from the North. Here I served a 'curved-ball' and the path of 'the road less travelled' was taken and an introduction of Norman Lane was served to the assembled throng. What fun ( the words track , beaten, and off of was enjoyed by all !), across the top of Yorks and towards Sevenoaks (lots of uppy-downy ) around the perimeter ofnKnowle Park looking for the entrance used last Wednesday. Having passed several that didn't look 'quite right', one was chosen as a likely candidate only it wasn't. Some off-roading was followd by a stretch of the Strada Bianchi ( giving Andy palpitations ).
Eventually the cafe was stumbled upon - beverages and comestibles were consumed and home was calling. The route back to Sevenoaks High Street was found, then the plunge back to Riverhead taken to Pol Hill. Here more miles were demanded so along thro' Knockholt then via Downe, all the while the pace was cranked up but, ne'er a fuss was made,
..........and home .
............oz!
..........p.s.........this weekend I was not nearly killed once !!!!!
Saturday - So, the morning arrived all grey and nasty but having attired one self in my best Saturday club-run frock, one sat on ones bed dithering as to just WHAT to do AND deciding that it would take just as long to dis-robe and, as it was easing off-ish I carried on to Corkscrew Hill to see if anyone was as daft as me.
Mig was there, so we wandered off on the usual Saturday route all the while to the orchestra of my NEW front changer, a combination of fitting in the garage gloom 'cos it was drizzling (Fri' p.m.) and not on the bike stand
The ride was dry, till we turned into the High Elms 'eco-caf', when it started to rain but we missed the worst ( a couple who arrived as we were being served looked like the proverbial drowned rats ).
Here we joined Stuart, whom having missed the start of the run took a short cut and arrived before us. By this time the weather had taken on a more inclement hue so I took an Executive decision.........and had another mug of Coffee. .....the drizzle eased a bit .........so we went home. ................oz!

SCCU Sporting 21 GS334 - 14.03.2010

Oh, the Bletchingley 21 mile TT, two circuits around Bletchingley, a demanding course for the also rans, one which you need to be on top of your game to do a good ride on.
Today was lovely and sunny with a bit of a breeze and dry, although the pot-holes had to be looked out for.

Four Old Ports entered -
Colin Hathaway, Dave Hickman, Barry Newman and Ian Bashford.

Our results as follows -
Colin Hathaway 1hr 3min 4sec
Dave Hickman 1hr 8min 19sec
Barry Newman 1hr 6min 48sec
Ian Bashford 1hr 5min 7sec

A blinding ride by 'Big Mig' Hathaway, we should expect some great results this year.
Oh nearly forgot to say who the winner was, anyway it was Steve Dennis in a, yawn, 50min 46sec!!!!
Again I must congratulate Colin on his ride........brilliant!!..........keep it up mate.

Club Runs 13/14.03.2010

Saturday - Seems like the usual Saturday run is becoming too short for some. John does an extra loop around Featherbed Lane and Layhams before meeting at Corkscrew and Oz meets up near Cudham having done Beddlestead, Hawley's Corner, Knockholt and Badgers Mount first !
So, Ian, Stuart, Phil, Paul, Les and John set-off from Corkscrew and pick-up Oz along the way. I (Oz) thought that Phil had at long last taken the hint and bought a pair of (what appeared to be Angora) tights. - it was only when I turned 'round ......I noticed that he was wearing SHORTS !! (EEEEEE! they make 'em tough ooop North !) The usual meanderings (Paul upsetting one of the 'natives' in Knockholt) followed via 'Bowdens Hill'. John having an 'off day' and becoming 'Tail-end-Charlie' making me feel fitter than I am. Stuart dived-off home before the High Elms tea stop - Mothers Day duties - Oz!
Sunday - Plan was to encourage others to join one on the ride to see our Athletes in the SCCU Hardriders @ Bletchingly. This is only possible due to it starting at a more human hour rather than silly o'clock. I was greeted @ Corkscrew by Iain having risen from his sick-bed AND Disco resplendent in his Confederate Uniform. Off we went along Layhams and via Beddlestead which oddly seemed soooooo much easier than the day before ( a combination of Spring weather ...OH, and the bike being half the weight maybe ?? Along the 'Ridge' which appears to have endured a strafing run from a Stuka, dodging this way and that - down Gangers, into Godstone and the looooooong drag to Bletchingly - just in time to catch 'our boys' having fun (what larks ??). Into the Village Hall for coffee and fruit cake the catering being 'Manned' ably by June and Valda.
We left just in time to latch onto the back of the Sydenham's run for a tow back to Godstone and then the joy of Gangers, Disco refusing the offer of a journey back thro' the 'Girls School' tho' I think the pending climb of Bug Hill may have deterred him. Back along the ridge (once again I couldn't tempt him with an extra few miles, back along Pilgrims and Pol ) past scene of Iains recent tumble, into Beech Farm Road, then back along Layhams where our attention was gripped by an elderly Portly of the Bickley variety heading towards Beddlestead followed by several groups of riders - we weren't sure wheather he'd caught and dropped them or not ? On we plunged, past Layhams Farm and it was here that some C**K in a Picasso ( usually SUCH good drivers ) decided to overtake just as another car came the other way forcing the overtakee to use the frontage of the farm to avoid a collision PROBABLY WITH US !! ( I wonder how such drivers can see 'round blind corners?)
.....and, so to bed.
.....oz!

Croydon Branch - Seaside or bust.
Croydon, Redhill, Cuckfield, Ansty, across the A23 and via some pleasant lanes to Devils Dyke and Hove. One puncture along the way - bit scary with 3/4s to go but I travel with 2 spares. Wasn't expecting to see the sea when I got to the top of the downs - was a pleasant sight today.
Short break on the front to eat a sandwich and cake and then return by more or less the same route. The hill out of Hove is 10% and that set the scene for the return - hills were harder into the breeze. When I got to Balcombe I was telling myself each hill was the last one, which it wasn't of course as even minor bumps became a trial. Needed to stuff bars, banana and gel down to get over a bad patch but finished OK although a bit sore from bouncing around too many pot-holes.
Elapsed time 6:30
Puncture and breaks 40 mins.
So just on 15's for the 88 miles.

Club Runs 06/07.03.2010

Saturday - Still suffering from this dreaded winter and only seeming to run Saturday runs, the journey to the 'Eco-Caf' via Downe and Halstead followed the usual pattern with Oz, Phil, Stuart, John and Les from the start but now being joined by his Luckyness who seems to be attempting a come-back.
Anyway nothing of great excitement. This week we were accompanied by Paul K whom was sandwiched twix the 'A' group and the 'stragglers' (the 'easy' Saturdays seeming to have gone out the window somehow !). This said, Stuart decided that Lullingstone was more inviting and headed off in that direction (he was later 'safely gathered in') and Lucky took Phil to the 'dark-side' via Badgers not realising that an extra leg via Timber Bottom and 'Bowdens Hill' to round Sat rides to a better 30 miler was expected. All arrived at the Caf' at roughly the same time, so nowt were lost - oz!
p.s. A 'blast-from-the-past' was espied on Sat' a.m. riding down thro' Knockholt ...... Kevin Lock !!!
p.s.(2). Riding back thro' Keston we were passed by a White Ferrari convertible bearing the number plate ....... OZ1 - what are the chances ?
Sunday - So where were you all ? Put off by the chill rawness of the morning ? Surely not.
Oz, Mark, Stuart and Phil met up at Corkscrew and headed off towards Brands Hatch and the Speedgate cafe. When the sun shone, it was ALMOST pleasant, when the wind blew it was a bit chilly. Anyway, good progress was made via Layhams, Beddlestead, Pilgrims Way (Oz found some ice - too late - no harm done) to Shoreham, Lullingstone and Eynesford. Then there was a very pleasant valley route (towards West Kingsdown) which ended with a short but sharp climb that caught Stuart out. Then Oz needed a MAP to get us to Speedgate - wish I could have got a photo.
Tea and toast was followed by the return through Eynesford, Farningham, (Mark had a puncture to give Oz a rest.) Bowdens Hill, Farnborough to Locksbottom were we started to split-up heading for home. I did Layhams, Beddlestead again to return via Warlingham to Croydon to make a total for me of 64m.

VTTA 10 Q10/22 - 06.03.2010

I entered this a few weeks ago, hoping the weather would have turned for the better but I was wrong! and it was a cold northerly wind on the return leg which I found a battle.
This was my first 10 mile time trial in 5 years and I returned a time of 27.40, which I was disappointed with but on the up side it's a start, and hopefully it can only get better !
The winner was a staggering 20.38, a minute in front of second place man, but the front runners always have put in amazing times.
I look forward to next weeks CDCA with anticpation but mind out for the nasty pot holes at the top of Bletchingley ! - Bazza

Sussex CA Hardriders - 28.02.2010

This course starts at Staplefield, just outside Handcross West Sussex, loops around via Cowfold, Bolney, Ansty, Whitemans Green, Balcombe and back to Handcross, 22.8 very lumpy miles.
No pride intact today I am afraid, I drove down to Handcross in awful weather, negotiating lots of standing water. At the HQ everybody was talking about what to do, some who had driven from different directions along the course were saying the road was flooded at two or three parts of the course, one section near the finish almost entirely across the road.
Steve Dennis the organiser drove some of the course returning to say it is just wet and the event was still on. Not for me I am afraid, it would have been counter productive and potentially dangerous to participate. I did drive along the last piece of the course and did find the flooded section, it was on a left hand bend with only a three feet section on the opposite side of the road not submerged!! I will be interested when I receive the result sheet to see how many actually started/finished - Ian.

Club Runs 27/28.02.2010

Saturday - Rain AM. Did anybody get out ? In the afternoon OPCC Croydon branch did 30 miles around South London. Weather almost pleasant by then !
Sunday - Rain, rain, rain - again !!!

Redhill CC Sporting 18 - 21.02.2010

This event starts just west of Westcott and within a very short time ascends Coast hill, heads over to Oakwoodhill via Holmbury St Mary, then Ockley, finishing on the A24 at Holmwood.
Two Old Ports were entered - Ian Bashford and Barry Newman. The morning temperature was hovering between 0 and +0.5 degrees, with icy rain falling. I felt the writing was on the wall when I was almost at the HQ and the car didn't want to go in the direction it was being steered and when I parked and got out, I nearly went base over apex.
However people were still arriving with Bazza turning up in his cycling shorts legs out northern style !!! You could almost smell the air of anticipation and terror !
At about 0830hrs the organiser put us all out of our misery and abandoned the event on safety grounds so we all kept our prides intact, no DNS for us.

Club Runs 20/21.02.2010

Saturday - John, Oz, Phil, Stuart - and Graham riding with us for the first time and "introduced" by John - met up for the usual Saturday jaunt. Les joined us a few yards up the road. We missed out Bowdens Hill again - just a bit too icy - but otherwise tea and cakes were had at High Elms before the return to West Wickham.
Sunday - Rain, rain, rain !!!

Club Runs 13/14.02.2010

Saturday - Ian, Oz, Phil, Stuart - returning again after last week, and Andy riding with us for the first time - met up for the usual Saturday jaunt. Les joined us a few yards up the road. We missed out Bowdens Hill this time - just a bit too icy - but otherwise tea and buns were had at the cafe before the return to West Wickham.
Sunday - Sydenham Reliability Trial - cancelled due to snow. Sunday club run - only Andy turned out. Too wet - and potentially icy - for those not travelling somewhere.

Club Runs 06/07.02.2010

Saturday - Anxious to get a start to the season, one joined the merry throng keen to beat the weather, it was, Phil, Fr J, Mig and a new chap Stuart (NO, another one ) who got our details via a web-search.
All the usual 'Fun-of-the-Fair' was enjoyed, 'sept a couple of our gang decided that the tried and tested route wasn't for them, and, (almost) struck out for other directions. Fear not dear reader, all were safely gathered in. Only detour (proper) was when Phil aquired a puncture at the top of 'Bowdens Hill'
Tea and cakes scoffed-up ,we went home. ..........oz!
Sunday - Old Ports Reliability Trial - more details here »

Club Runs 30/31.01.2010

Sunday - For today's OP Croydon branch Sunday ride - Croydon, Redhill, Horley, Cuckfield, Hassocks, Ditchling (VILLAGE not BEACON !!), Haywards Heath, Turners Hill, Godstone, Caterham by-pass, Purley, Croydon. Non-stop apart from a nature call.
No problems really but a bit of ice here and there caused a rapid slowdown once or twice.
71 miles.

Club Run 23/24.01.2010

Saturday Three - Oz, Phil and John met at Corkscrew soon to be joined by Les and then to 'eco caf' via 'bowdens hill'. All ok, except Les punctured at Badgers and decided to go home. Nuffin' very special but it was a ride.
Sunday - Phil, Oz and Gary - to show/remind the joys of Crowhurst for the coming season, via Layhams , Beds'd ( 15m (+50%)), Limpsfield, Gibbs Brook (inc 'Lake') round the circuit, past the Red Barn, stopped @ 'Occasionally Yours' caf' for Cake and Bacon Rolls.
Replenished, we carried on, into 'The Waterworks'. Dear listener, if I tell you that the entrance/corner has got even worse, you'll not be surprised. Up both climbs (Phil had earlier complained the course wasn't very lumpy !), past the Hall, back into G Brook, back thro' the Lake. Then ,via Spring Lane, Wolfes Hill (deeeep joy), A25 ,Clackets ... more holes than road! - Pilgrims ( here Gary decided he'd had enough company, and went his own way home), Pol Hill (8.5 mins (+50% AGAIN !), consistent or what - can I get any slower (probably).
Col-de-Farn' and home, knackered, oh so very knackered, BUT, 'appy.
oz!
p.s, Phil, feeling short changed, carried on for another lap of Beddlestead !!

CC Bexley Reliability Trial 24.01.2010

3 Old Ports turned up for this morning's RT at Horton Kirby - early start 8.30 getaway for Bashers, Barry Newman (Bazza) and me.
We started off with a small group of around 8 to 10 and kept it together despite a brisk pace (Bash doing the pacemaking as usual)- no wind and dry and occasional sunshine!
Did the 100kms in 3.44 - good course a lot of climbing - c3500 ft - up Tilburstow and Gangers on the way back. Blew the cobwebs away and my pulse was still over 100 about 20 minutes after finishing. ( note to self - death is nature's way of telling you to slow down).
Hope those of you who did the clubrun had a good day. See you next week for those who are out on Sunday?

Club Run 16/17.01.2010

Saturday - Too wet - rained off
Sunday - Nine met-up at Corkscrew - destination Speed Gate. At least I think it was nine. We didn't stay together long enough to be sure. Ian, Barry, Phil, Mark, Oz, John , Gary, Colin and Dave. Andy threatened to join us but was running late.
Mark had a puncture after half an hour maybe - don't know exactly where. Dave and Phil stopped to give moral support, John and Oz went on ahead and the peleton waited up the road. Puncture fixed, off we went to catch the peloton only for Mark to have a second puncture before the join was made. Mark decided to call it a day and so Dave, Phil and the rest set off again. However, having other plans laid, Barry, and then Ian, Colin and Gary peeled-off leaving Dave and Phil to chase the other two.
Tea and cakes at Speed Gate then saw the remaining four heading home. Oz disappeared somewhere - puncture ? Or did he find Anita's home ?? Dave and John went back to find him without success. Then Dave punctured and as he was two miles from home, sent John and Phil off homewards. No further dramas. 80K for me by the time I got home - tired. Hope everyone get back OK.
PS Oz Report - ....home-wards we pressed, all going 'O.K' ,and, shunning the delights of Crockenhill (and the 'locals' !) and the Crays and Orp' carried on thro' Farningham and Eynsford onto the A225 and Lull' and the loooooong pull thro' to the A21 On struggling with the climb past Shoreham Lane I thought 'ear ,I got one of then 'Triple Clangers' on (as used by the 'Clunkers' group ) - why not utilise it.
Now, it's funny BUT 20th gear on the Bianchi is obviously lower than 16th on the Roberts ( well, that's my excuse) and,'slamming' it into 'Granny Ring said Chain (presumably suffering from "Chain Suck "(sure does !!), the bottom run of the Chain decided to accompany the top part AND, wedged itself the wrong side of the Chain Stay AND, no amount of 'persuasion ' would extricate it WHAT TO DO !!!, (by this time I was ALLLLL alone !!) only way out (short of 'phoning the Boss ) was to remove the 'rings and free it , By pure fortune I was carrying an 'Multi Tool-ette ' AND, although it bore a Allen Key of the right size it was too short to enable full rotation MEANING ,the 'rings were removed AND re-fitted in a series of 1/8 turns ! BUT, not wanting to make a to-do, just got on with it AND arrived home, late(er) oily AND ,fed-up .

Club Run 10.01.2010

5 Go Mad in White Stuff
For all those who missed out on todays fun and games let me fill you in. With the WK Reliability cancelled and threat of a Sunday morning on the Turbo Mr Hickman suggested a clunkers ride to get us out. Basically drag old bike with big tyres out of the garage and tally ho!
Dave, Paul, Colin, Bash and I assembled at the appointed time.
To be honest of the 5 of us only Paul had bought into the clunker concept riding the now infamous Falcon Scorpion in walking boots. The rest of us cheated with a collection of Marin and Specialized MTBs, with SPD's and all. I was roundly mocked for my MTB'ers baggy shorts- though I thought i looked rather dashing.
We followed the Saturday route more or less. It was a little bit hairy early on with Paul(by now dubbed The Falcon, or il Falco to his friends) and Colin managing a nifty syncronised skidding manouver at one stage.
It was all good fun but the familiar landmarks did seem to take longer to arrive on mtb'S, amd Dave and I noted that was bloody hard work.
Stopped at Bombers Lane for photo's then onto Shire Lane and the eco cafe. All cheerfully spattered in salty muck from the road.
Fun morning out- cheers guys

Gary Blunt 10 mile run 03.01.2010

Tadworth 10.
So here I am again just pulled up next the grandstand at Epsom race course. The temperature is a bone freezing minus 2, I did the same event last year and said never again but as we all know taking part in these events is what keeps you going and why we spend hours and hours training.
The entry sheet was full at 1000 but for some strange reason some people decided that they would rather stay snuggled up in bed !! I had a gentle warm up and joined the other 650 odd ( in both senses of the word ) competitors at the start line, the klaxon sounded and we were off, the ground was very hard under foot as you might imagine and the course was what as a cyclist you might call a little lumpy.
As the field thinned out I found my rhythm and plodded around two 5 mile laps of Epsom downs and the surrounding area. The race is well marshaled and despite the below freezing conditions well supported by many locals which as we all know is well appreciated.
The winner did an amazing 55.13 and was over two and a half minutes in front of the next finisher. I completed someway behind him however in 1.25.13 ( not quick but a minute and a half faster than last year ) He was probably changed showered and in the pub by the time I got round........Never again !!

Club Run 02/03.01.2010

Saturday - a cold and frosty morning meant many put discretion first but Colin, Ian and Phil met up at Coney Hall for the Saturday run. While Phil changed a puncture Ian planned a route to avoid any ice through Hayes, Keston, Keston Mark, Farnborough to Badgers Mount and then back via Orpington and Farnborough with a tea stop at the usual cafe. No ice or any other hazards of note. - 50K for me
Sunday - waking early for the 9:30 start I was hoping as I looked through the curtains to see a covering of snow. No such luck so could not find a good reason not to sally forth. Ian, Dave and Andy made the same choice and so again a route likely to be safe was chosen - Keston, Biggin Hill, Westerham, Riverhead, Otford to Lullingstone for tea. Then the usual return through the lanes under the motorway. Even these roads were ice-free and so all returned safely. 70K this time.