I was actually quite pleased with Saturday's ride, particularly because the weather wasn't quite as bad as expected.
The amount of people gathered at Priory was markedly less than normal. In fact there was nobody there at all. By the time I arrived the peloton was already ploughing its way towards Kewstoke. My reputation now firmly established I chose to chase the group down in my usual way. Apart from a little 'showboating' on the Toll Road, the group (including me) made its merry way down the seafront, heading for Brent Knoll - the destination was Somerton.
By the way, nice to see Andy Franks out, and getting slimmer too!
After some had relieved themselves of early morning tea, coffee and orange juice (freshly squeezed) we proceeded across the Mark Causeway. I should say 'battled' across, because the headwind was very apparent and thwarted any foolhardy attempts at a breakaway. After Shapwick we dropped the '220' guys off at Truckers and then the most enjoyable drop down Pedwell and across the A39.
So now, here we go, the usual rant across the levels towards High Ham. Ivan and 'Toolbag Andy' pushed the pace a little on the front and oh dear, the group has splintered. No problem though, we're on their wheel preparing ourselves for the first challenge of the day - Ham Hill. No real threats from behind then, which is just as well because we're now at the base of the climb and . . . . .
we turn left !
So we're not doing the climb then?!!
Now the group is only 7 and after we realised there was no one else coming we headed off to Somerton along some of the cleanest lanes I've ridden - not! Really glad I brought the winter bike out. The cafe was pleasant enough, but whilst munching on breakfast rolls and Rocky Roads we noticed a slight dulling of the skies. Riding out of Somerton was a damp affair, but it only lasted about 10 minutes and was to be the only wetting of the day.
We took the easterly road out through Kingsweston and the usual rant into Glastonbury via what is known as the Butleigh Straight. Working hard on the front is great if you want to get fit and strong, but if you want a good Strava result Neil . . . .
So congratulations to Mr Burstow for claiming the Strava KOM on the rise into Glastonbury. The 'Butleigh Road Bump' will now become a target for the rest of us I'm sure. Godney was next and then the Dagg Lane killer climb up to the top of Mudgley. The Wedmore to Cheddar run is always a rant and it didn't disappoint with Neil claiming another victory after my legs had popped. When I've finished writing this I'm going to look up the word 'draughting.'
When I got home, my legs were telling me that the knacker factor was around the 8 mark, but perhaps Martin could be so kind as to provide the official stats?
The ride was good for us, which is more than I can say for poor Malcolm who came a cropper on his return through Shapwick. Get well soon Mal. Hope to see you out soon!