Well what a morning that was - why only 13 riders, when it should have been the whole club.
Yes it would appear that spring has finally sprung, after the snow of last week in which only Darren turned up, (so if you're looking for a hero, we have our man). Little bit of a headwind to the club house, but nothing too much to complain about. After negotiating with the level crossing repair man, in which he ageed to look the other way whilst Chris (Parkes) & myself sneaked past him, in a situation which was not amiss from an episode of Fawlty Towers, we were soon at Harley Hall awaiting the masses.
The sun shone brightly down (just rubbing it in) as Russell, Darren, Martin Erasmus, Gilbert, Jaybee, Richard, Stuart, Tony Brunton, Snoop Doug and that famous double act (well on the comedy circuit anyway) of Dick & Chris Selley, showed up.
After asking if we needed a fast and slow group, to which there were no replies, we set off in true club run style, (ambling around whilst half wheeling each other and taking up most of the road). A route to Wilstone was agreed, with Gilbert doing an excellent job with directions.
On a serious note, I think we finally have this club run lark sorted out, with everybody staying together and in true Navy Seal's style, not a man left behind. I think I can speak for most people, that it was far from an easy (touring) ride, with everyone getting the work out they wanted.
We were soon at the foot of Stewkley hill, the pack stretched out, but no gaps appeared, and after losing Tony and Stu off the back for a bit, we were all together for Wingrave. A quick jaunt through Long Marston and an extra loop tacked on by that hard man of the north, Gilbert, we were soon settled down for tea and cakes. That was after waiting for Hemel CC to leave, and clearing up the wanton distruction that they left in their wake.
Upon leaving the Barn, the dragon ride crew, made their way to the Chilterns (dammed fools), whilst the rest of us sped through Cheddington and Mentmore on our way to Wing. The pack split on Mentmore hill, and I went back for the tailenders. However my faith was restored in the NBRC club run, to find everyone (well almost) waiting for us at Wing, well done lads, true club spirit. Unfortunatley their wait was in vain, as we turned off towards Leighton Buzzard and after picking our way via the signs (still left in the road) from the reliability ride, I was home with 50 miles on the clock and 2,300ft of climbing - I'm sure there was a few who had a lot more.
Ok don't forget, this Wednesday its the first of our TT league rounds on the (new years day) A4146 course, 7pm sharp & there's still time (just) to enter my open event, on the same course on 27th April
Until next week, unless it snows, (then the report will be written by Darren), see you all then.