Sunday 25th May 2014
It was a great day for a ride. The sun had its hat on. Riders appeared at the Harrow for 9 am. Eight in all. A quick review of route options and the direction of the wind led to the conclusion that a route east to Rye, with a tailwind, followed by an inland circuit westward would reduce the impact of the wind. Heading off through Pett and down towards the cycling path through Rye Harbour nature reserve, a newcomer in the form of young Jacob on a new bike held his own until we got to Rye, where he peeled off to get back to Hastings.
The route along the cycle path through Rye harbour was beautiful as ever. Terns flew overhead making best use of the wind too.
The route continued inland to the family run cafe at Rolvenden where bacon butties seemed to be the order of the day. The cafe was popular with cyclists and motorcyclists alike. After the cafe at Rolvenden the route led through some beautiful lanes sweeping and looping up and down through lush green woodland. It was here that we paid the price for mentioning the P word over tea and bacon. The heavy winter rain has led to the formation of many holes. Following the route was a little like a Travolta dance of sorts with riders pointing out potholes to the left and to the right. Nobody dressed in white though. First one struck in the woods. After this the group split with Nigel leading away at pace, by way of preparation for his Pyrenean holiday and an ascent of the Col du Tourmalet. Good job the group split too, for shortly afterwards and after three more punctures, Malcom, Chris and Alexander were left by the roadside to head back with not one spare tube between them. Pernicious Impact pinch punctures. Fortunately judicious hole dodging and bunny hops meant that the return to Hastings was trouble free.
Despite the holes, it was a great ride and a credit to the club whose supportive, convivial ethos is alive and well.
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