Wow, what a differance a couple of weeks make. Went out on the usual Wednesday ride last night and the ground conditions were very good indeed, hardly any water or mud anywhere.
10 of us had gathered at Nirvana for the 6.30 ride and with both Carl and Ray there we knew it would be a fast one. What we hadn't reckoned on was the dry, fast surface which was a real joy. We headed out through Abinger roughs followed by 'Cow shit field' and then up through Paddington Farm where you eventually come out behind the Volunteer pub.
A short section of tarmac then it was off road again all the way up to the top of Holmbury Hill. A quick blast around 'Parklife' was followed by a mixture of trials all around Holmbury hill culminating with the best decent of the lot - 'Ishouldcoco'.
Having waited for Charlie to mend a punture on his on-one rigid singlespeed we made our way accross Pitch hill and onto Winterfold. From here we made our way to the Perimeter trail which was in great condition and all really enjoyed blasting around there.
A few more nameless trails later and we were on ponds lane. This still had a fair bit of mud and without wishing to sound cruel it was nice to see Carl take a small tumble and end up with his white overshoes looking decideidly muddy. A short hop accross the railway line then we arrived at the William 4th for some well earned beers.
As usual the pub was warm and welcoming with a fab fire and even better selection of beers. Having consumed the normal 2 pints and had a Chat with Dicky and the other darts players whom seem to have a practice night there every Wednesday we were once again on our way.
Its still a fair ride back to Westcott from there and we made our way accross the heathland then down into Shere, round the back of Gomshall and on to Abinger Hammer. A left turn up past the Abinger arms then back onto the Roughs for the final charge to Westcott. 23 miles covered at an average of 10.2mph, not bad for a night ride.
Toby, Mike, Simon, Tred, Antony, Carl, Ray, Duncan, Brian & Charlie made up the numbers.
