1 Back

2009-02-23T06:51:00.000-08:00

Since neither Bayf nor LF (more of that later) 'posted', I kinda got better things to do and lapsed too... So what has happened in the year since our last post:

Duncan bought a new Orange 5, and then proceeded to barely ride it,

Garry built up his Meta with a set of Pikes for our Alps trip, and then bought an On-One summer season 456 to 'use up' his spare Fox Talas',

I recently bought an On-One 456 since I've only really used my Enduro at Chicksands, and its a bit of a waste, so wanted something I could plug my 36's into!

We (plus Guy) went with TrailAddiction to the Alps in June - absolutely stunning, and worthy of a post (Duncan?).

We also managed a few other trips, including Afan, Coed y Brenin, Glentress, Ae and various Chiltern and Surrey Hills outings.

But unfortunately Duncan succumbed to the LF* disease, and barely rode all year, with the exception of the Alps.

Other news;

Christian entered his first race, and even got his picture in DIRT magazine - very proud he is

I got laid off in the late Autumn, so I'm well fit now - lost 2 inches off my waist!

Hopefully we'll get the others posting from now...

*LF = Lazy Fucker

First Gorrick of the season

2008-01-29T04:05:00.000-08:00

So Bayf and I entered the first Gorrick, DERA Test Track, down near Farnborough.

From parking the car, eventually, we dressed up and rode to the start - along what we found out later was about the only flat bit...

87 were entered into the Vets class, consequently this was fine for the run from the start, but then a bit of a nightmare at the first tight (one bike wide) section. From then on it was the most technical Gorrick we've ever done - very hard work...

I missed on target (not to be lapped), but got the other (beat Garry); and we finished 76th and 77th respectfully - 40 minutes behind the leaders (1 hour dead).

Long time since last post

2008-01-22T05:49:00.000-08:00

So long time since last post, and a lot's happened, including:

Weekend trip to The Peaks for Bayf and me, where we got drown, frozen and beaten by the weather
New bike for Christian - Norco B-Line 24" full-suss
Christian and I visited Glentress over Christmas - freeride and then the run down, including the Black section
One day blat to Afan (Duncan, Guy, Bayf and I) - cold, took the wrong route, started doing Whites, ended doing most of the Skyline...
Couple of visits to Chicksands
Finally Duncan has bought his own bike, a rather spiffying 2008 Orange 5 Pro in black with the full upgrade kit (Thompson, carbon bars etc) - and very nice it is too
And last Sunday, a day in Swinley - only did 14 miles, but had to pedal for every one

Now set for the first Gorrick on Sunday - Bayf and I've entered the Vets as usual

North Downs, and a fit(ter) Jon

2007-12-03T13:34:00.000-08:00

The Roaring Forties and the work guys were back in action Sunday last for another go at the route that almost destroyed Jon, before he'd started MTBing.

But with nasty weather either side, the day was bright and fresh, and not too filthy.

Jon not only kept up, but led for a time. Guy followed us down the drop-offs he's avoided for years'. And all except myself managed a tumble.

But Guy maybe ought to check in the mirror first...

Chicksands 3 weeks running

2007-12-03T13:18:00.000-08:00

Took the little lad to Chicksands 3 weeks running, and its quite amazing the difference (for both of us).

We've both mastered the dual-salaom, and are getting to grips with the 4X - obviously the NorthShore is still 'worrying' me - but the kids' doing well.

And we also took a friend, who was into MTBing 10 years ago (look at the bike!), with his 4" Cannondale DH rig.

4 Punctures and a Soaking

2007-11-19T13:11:00.000-08:00

The Roaring Forties and three guys from work had a hack around the Christmas Common area on Sunday. A day of cold, rain, wind and 4 punctures - Adrian within 2 miles, then Jon to a snakebite and finally Andrew 300 yards from the car and this morning when he finally took his bike out of the car...

Luckily the forecast's predicted weather wasn't there first thing, otherwise I don't think some would have turned up - but a cold and damp car park got us moving, with a run around (1st puncture) Wormsley Park, and up onto Northend, then across a field into the teeth of a gail/rain and drop into the woods (2nd puncture)

and on across a (former) meadow... - then onto Pishill and the pub. How we managed to leave the pub and its real fire I've no idea.

Then up through a sunken lane and woods to Russell's Water, at this point Jon started to struggle - so again downhill through a tight and twisty between the hedges path, with a 3 foot drop-off in the dark, to catch the unwary (that woke them up!). From there it was a long climb to the Christmas Common road, where Duncan, Jon and Adrian elected to take the road back to the cars; while Garry, Andrew and I plummeted down to the Ridgeway via the bridleway next to Dame Alice's Farm.

From there it was a slog across to the M40, and then straight up the escapement (3rd puncture)

to the car park - meeting up with the guys.

By now the temperature had dropped and it was raining...

Home James (Garry).

Gorrick Autum Series - Crowthorne Woods

2007-11-07T00:17:00.000-08:00

Bruce here.

I rode in last Sundays' Gorrick XC race in Crowthorne Woods, Veterans Class.

Didn't come last, nor even last of the finishers!

Managed my goal for this year, don't get lapped and finish at about 150% of the winner of the distance, which unusually was a Master, not Vet.

https://www.theimagefile.com/?skin=6899&Action=VF&id=61108040&ppp=0&ppwd=rn2669rp

And the Giant performed admirably, on what was a very technical course. Glad it wasn't wet, as the roots would have been horrific, and I'm sure St Johns' would have been busy.

The Lakes

2007-10-22T03:36:00.000-07:00

Myself and Bayf took a 3-day camping (and yes, it was cold) to The Lakes.

We got up there in plenty of time to set-up camp, and went over to Grizedale for a lap of their North Face Trail. We thought'd of doing two, but the cafe beckoned... While in the ride it feels like there is too much fireroad, but last sections (Topsy Turvy onwards) made up for them.

http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/englandnwefdthenorthfacetrailmap.pdf/$file/englandnwefdthenorthfacetrailmap.pdf

Although we'd made a pact to not just spend all the evening in the campsite pub, it was just too cold to stay in the tent.

Saturday was a beautiful day, clear skies and long views.

We dropped down to Hartsop, and then took the route around and up to The Knott (a fair bit of pushing was needed), but once on top the views were stunning.

From there we followed the 'High Street' ridge to just above Pooley Bridge, the last few miles been just headlong downhilling.

Then it was following the Bridleway above Ullswater to Howtown, a most fantastic route with speed and views. We'd been advised not to bother with the lakeside path, but to head over Boredale Hause - boy was that a hard climb, especially the last hundred feet. From there it was just downhill back to camp - a shower and a Balti (Bayf). And the pub, as it was even colder...

Sunday, we packed up early and ran down into Glenridding and took the Grisedale route, over Dollywaggon Pike, to Helvellyn. The route started pleasant, but quickly became a nightmare carrying up the last 400 vertical metres to the top of Dollywaggon.

The optimist and the pessimist - we're halfway up vs as far again.

Once on top a quick break and then helterskelter (3 hours up vs 30 minutes down) across the rocks via Lower Man across Glenridding Common down to the Travellers Rest (top pub food, although Bayf thought his salad strange - with all manner of fruits). Back for a shower and home.

Afan, and no rain!

2007-10-08T06:38:00.000-07:00

So six went for a day in Afan, and six returned unscathed, must be a record!

We had lunch, and then Jon arrived.

Just what Duncan had done, I don't know... Hardtail and V-Brakes maybe?

Tomorrow - Afan

2007-10-05T02:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow its across to Afan, the Roaring Forties plus Guy and Jon from our North Downs ride, and Dennis, another guy from work.

And Jon has moved into the BIG BOYS League with a purchase this week of a Commencal Meta 5.5.2 - no excuses now, just hope his smoking cessation is on target...

Also it seems that there is no sign of FPF (False Promise Frost), and his twice stated:

"I will update the blog, honest"

Sunday run, and a new bike

2007-10-02T14:10:00.000-07:00

Garry, Duncan and I managed 33 miles today; Aylesbury to Great Missenden to Princes Risborough to Towersey to Haddenham to Aylesbury - and my new bike was ace!

Mind you I still think the boys have trimmed up since the last photo on this spot...

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SzM40NDRZSw/RjBvIF85YTI/AAAAAAAAAAc/8qSdPvzT43c/s1600-h/CASLAZCH.jpg

Comment on radio

2007-09-26T01:53:00.000-07:00

The DJ was talking to a travel writer who'd just flown out to Addis Ababa;

DJ - How was the journey

Travel guy - Oh, you know, travel in the 3rd world is difficult..., but once I'd got into Heathrow it all went smoothly!

Bought it!

2007-09-18T05:07:00.000-07:00

New bike, ordered today, arrive Friday next:

http://www.pedalon.co.uk/acatalog/giant_xtc_composite_1_2007_more.html

From Buckingham Bikes, who more than matched the best Internet deal I could find - no excuses for the Gorricks now!

Rebuild...

2007-09-18T03:29:00.000-07:00

Mentioned yesterday to my boss that I'd spent the afternoon stripping down my Trek, on him querying my thoughts of another MTB (new story...), and he said that he's looking for a new bike and had been ebaying various full sussers at the five hundred pound mark...

So spent last night rebuilding said Trek, and its on the car for him to look at - so I can now buy the new bike, if even just on a promise of a sale.

Do I tell him about the fact that the forks could do with a service..., never sell to friends or family, thats ok, he's a colleague!

Update - he bought it!

Strip Down

2007-09-18T03:19:00.000-07:00

Decided that the Trek, now Duncan has use of Garry's hardtail, is in severe need of some TLC - especially after the chainrings almost parted company http://roaringforty.blogspot.com/2007/08/evening-ride.html

So spent Sunday afternoon dismantling it, every little piece, and putting it all through my parts washer http://www.justoffbase.co.uk/Parts-Cleaning-Tank-Bench-Portable-Sealey-SM21;jsessionid=ac112b321f43345300e4362d4b598f50b6536e366716.e3eSc38TaNqNe34Pa38Ta38Nahf0?sc=2&category=178, which I can throughly recommend for delousing MTB's.

With the exception of the scarred frame, there is very little wear/tear, even all the bushings/bearings were pretty perfect (ie not dodgy French made, eh Garry?).

Now parked it all the the garage loft while I decide whether to sell, rebuild/recondition or just keep for spares.

Trail through the North Downs

2007-09-13T08:24:00.000-07:00

Duncan and myself joined up with two Specialized riding colleagues; Guy (Stumpjumper FSR) and Jon (Hardrock Sport), down at Guy's place for a ride in the North Downs.

The weather was superb, warm with almost no wind.

Now Jon is new to MTBing, and a smoker as well; he struggled up the first real climb,

technical and sandy where none of us got up in one go - but for the next climb he decided that a gel was the answer - the packet didn't indicate the flavour, but his face did, boy did it look fowl (sic).

Unfortunately the next climb was almost his last, not quite heard noises like that before...

But he continued on, and did practically the full ride, even though his legs had already gone.

We lunched at the National Trust Cafe in Hindhead, and then hit the downhills.

In the end we managed 18.6-20miles, depending on whether it was Guy's computer or my GPS, with the route below:

And Jon is still alive, and now wants a Full Sus.

Next time we'll take them around the Chilterns.

Terry's 40th

2007-09-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

We all went and help Terry celebrate his 40th down in deepest Kent, we enjoyed ourselves, not sure whether Terry did...

Duncan - you need to write this up

Back to work

2007-08-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

So where do we start with the 'holidays' or based upon my normal +500 miles per week, 'busmans holidays'...

Fri - took Nikki, Christian, Thomas and 2 bikes (Enduro for me, Trek for Christian) to my parents in the Scottish Borders
Sun - returned, sans the lot
Mon to Thu - busy week, including Paris via SteliosJet
Fri - travelled to Scotland, collecting eldest sons, and 2 bikes (GT for Joseph and Saracen for George) in Doncaster
Sat - visited my first 3 Day Event-ing, note picture of horse just before falling on rider and breaking her leg..., ouch

then Bayf arrives, good Italian in Melrose with all the family, where Bayf goads George into eating all of his pizza, after mussells and breads, and then a banana split - he is a bit delicate on the drive back (window open!)

Sun - Nikki flies home while the five of us visit a wet and murky Glentress - the boys love the new 'blue' freeride section

Mon - Back to Glentress, another good day, except Christian's bike came loose from the car rack (while driving...) and proceeded to grind away 1/2 inch of handlebar before I realised - doh

Bayf falling off the 'high' woodwork!

Tue - Bayf and I ride from my folks to the top of the Eildens, and back - then its Edinburgh, park car, beers/eats and Foo Fighters, then pi55ed walk back to hotel - and very good they were too
Wed - recovery day, while Bayf went home we fixed up the bikes - new bars for Christian and lock-ons for all 3
Thu - last day for the elder 2, so we went to Glentress, my wheelie demo wasn't a great success - spd's are a bugger to get out of when spinning over backwards (cor my kidneys took a beating)
Then to Edinburgh to collect Nikki from her flight back up and a very good meal in a French restaurant
Fri - dropped boys back at Scotch Corner and then had the pleasure of sitting in an A1 traffic jam watching the air-ambulance arrive

Sat - we went again up to Glentress as Christian wanted to show Nikki his skills, and while there I managed to be persuaded to enter the Avalanche Trophy (http://www.avalanchecup.com/)

Sun - back to Glentress and the enduro, all went well except for me practically falling off the starting stage and then missing a sign between Stages 2 and 3 (with a 15 min loss of time)

Mon - back home via Grandma's

Evening ride

2007-08-17T03:04:00.000-07:00

Bayf and I managed an evening ride this week. It had chucked it down all day, and Bayf took some persuading... And I'm on the Trek today, as I've already taking the Enduro to Scotland in anticipation of a 7-Stanes week.

Anyway he turned up at 5:30, forgetting his shoes, so had to ride sans-SPD.

We rode from home across the Bugle Horn bridleway to Little Kimble, then straight up onto Pulpit Hill (definitely felt that), and down the otherside to the back of 'Chequers'. Across the Ridgeway and then home via Butlers Cross and the bridleway.

It was very dark, even down to not been able to see the roots in the trees, and they were well slippery.

Only item of note was my chain getting stuck between my outer and middle cogs on the chainset, and finding out the reason was that 3 out of the 4 bolts had fallen off! I guess this what comes of paying the Trek no attention (as Duncan's been riding it), with that and the creaky BB and stiff forks I think I need to give it a full stripdown and service. Hey Duncan when you buying a bike?

Once showered and changed it was into town for a couple of beers (when did The Grapes shut?), a curry and St James's, for a drink ;-)

WSB at Brands Hatch

2007-08-07T02:46:00.000-07:00

Bayf, myself and 'Dave' had a day-out at the WorldSupers courtesy of one of my suppliers at work - initially there were only 2 tickets, but then the guy had to drop out, so we didn't even have to talk 'shop'.

Very warm, top fun and To52land did the double.

And yes, that is Bayf with water!

And to cap it all, we left after the 2nd Superbike race, and got home in less than 2 hours - previously its taken longer just to get out of the car park.

Who's the Man

2007-07-31T11:16:00.000-07:00

How good does the boy look?

Muc-Off Part 2 29th July

2007-07-30T14:05:00.000-07:00

It had been two weeks since our North Wales trip, so a leisurely Sunday ride around South Oxfordshire was put in the diary. We decided to make it an early start, however Garry cancelled due to his ankle injury, but we were joined by Alex from Stone. We decided to do the same loop (well similar) near to Christmas Common that Bruce and I did a few weeks ago. I was expecting the trail to have dried out slightly, but how wrong was I, it was very gloopy in the forest sections and we all struggled with grip in places. We rode for two and a half hours and must have covered close to 20 miles. Alex took some good photos and will hopefully join us on future ride outs. The weather stayed fine but all three of us were covered from head to foot in mud and as for the bikes.......time

for some Muc-Off !

Bayfords foot/ankle update

2007-07-30T08:27:00.000-07:00

Two weeks on and the Bayf was unable to join us yesterday in the Chiltern mud, due to his ankle still been swollen.

Apparently it had been ok, but a Friday night-out in Birmingham brought it back on...

Coed Y Brenin pictures

2007-07-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

(crap) Campsite with a view west

A quick Latte break, not sure what Bayf is thinking... he looks pensive, maybe thinking about whether he'll get out damage-free?

MasterChef at work - notice the rain on the windows

Jog On

2007-07-23T01:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Sunday 22nd July, I went to support two friends who had entered the Milton Keynes half marathon. Both of these two friends have been training for several months, gradually building up to the 13 miles distance. As I looked at the runners crossing the finish line, I thought to myself, now that is an achievement and does not look too difficult.

My fitness has greatly increased as of late, but the thought of pounding the same streets week in week out training for one race really does not float my boat. The thought of loading up the bike on the back of the car, driving to a new location and riding for a few hours seeing parts of the countryside you would not normally see, does.

Jogging is a lonely pastime, whereas cycling is social, jogging is repetitive whereas cycling is varied, jogging is boring whereas cycling is challenging. Jogging - I just don't get it.

So yes hats off to my two friends for achieving their goal, and maybe they will enter the London Marathon next year but for me no, not a chance.

Who is the greatest sportsman of all time, Sir Steve - no, Seb - no, Paula Radcliffe - perlease ! no the greatest sportsman in my opinion is Lance Armstrong. Anyone who thinks different can jog on !

Coed y Brenin - A mixed bag of a weekend 13th - 15th July

2007-07-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

The 3 of us finally left Buckingham shortly after 2 pm on Friday the 13th and without a lucky rabbits foot or black cat to hand, we headed off "up North" (well North West). Luck was, as a result not on our side and despite the use of a road map and a Tom Tom we hit bad traffic and later bad weather.

We arrived at the camp site at 7.45pm and met a chap who needs to go on a people skills course. Had it not been late and raining, I have a feeling the usually calm Garry would have told him where he could stick his campsite rule book and we would have found an alternative site. When we unloaded the car, the rain had eased a tad and we quickly got the tent up, the now traditional "Speckled Hen" opened and Garry firing up the camp stove. After another few beers and some interesting chat it was time to get some z's.

The morning was overcast but at least it was not raining, in fact the weather steadily improved throughout the day. Following breakfast we "saddled up" and headed off down the road to the trail centre.

The first trail was a short one at just under 9k's called Temtiwr. This was basically a warm up, however the start is fairly technical for the uninitiated. Also the end of the trail was a hard fire road uphill and a fairly technical downhill back to the centre. This would be re-visited later.

A quick snack at the centre and it was off to tackle the Dragon's Back, 31k's in length and graded as Severe. The start was the same but after about 10 minutes into the trail it branched off from the Temtiwr trail via a bridge over the amazing white water rapids below. A section of the trail called "Beefy" was interesting as it was basically a stream. Half way round we stopped off for a cuppa and a cake at a Cafe. At this stage we took a short cut and both Garry and myself decided to walk up the extremely steep road, Bruce on the other hand spun that granny ring all the way up, so the fitness is back.

We then rejoined the trail at several downhill sections named after the Adam's family. We had missed out Gomez and rejoined the trail at Morticia which merged into Pugsey and this is the most difficult cycling I have done so far, in fact I along with 3 others we had met from Bristol decided to walk our bikes down, rather than risk broken bones. Back on the bike for Lurch and then Uncle Fester which was a man made section and rather like a roller coaster, and very enjoyable, and I know "Dave" would have had fun on this section of the trail.

The next part of the trail was called the Pink Heifer, and as ever I rode at the back and about half way down I met the other two and what looked like an incident. Garry had misjudged a jump and hit the bank with his right ankle taking the worst of it. We had a few k's still to go, mostly familiar territory as we rejoined the Temtiwr trail, and this was the hard slog uphill and the technical downhill.

We had a hard ride back to the camp site but had the beers and dinner to look forward to.

Saturday evening was fantastic, good weather, good beer, good food (even Bruce rustled up supper) and good company. Sunday was wet and Garry's ankle was looking like an elephants foot. Time to call it a day and drive home.

My highpoint from this weekend was the fact I did not struggle with climbing up the hills and I am pleased with my overall fitness level.

Can't wait for the next outing, and we really do need to take some more photo's !!

Coed Y Brenin

2007-07-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

Quick post, before anybody else gets here.

Got away with Friday 13th, but took for ever to get to the campsite - and it rained in biblical proportions.

Campsite owner had obviously had the worse day of his life, before we arrived... and boy did he let us know. The campsite was crap, half-built, but not in any particular order. I reckoned that he was ex-Old Bill.

Saturday dawned good, the weather stayed fine, no rain and we rode to the centre and did two loops (Temptiwr 10km and the Dragon's Back 30km), both 'reds'.

I especially liked the Adams Family set of trails - not sure if its 'Gomez' or 'Morticia' but I was the only one amongst ourselves and 3 others we'd met up with that managed to ride the steep rocky/rooty descent. There are times when you need the full six inches!

Unfortunately, for Bayf, he had a run-in with a banking (spread liberally with stones) trying to keep up :-), spraining his ankle - but he did finish the loop (probably 10km) and ride back to camp (another 3-4km)...

Pitched-up the next morning and came home, as although Garry was in no fit state to ride, we had him do breakfast and help pack.

Next day I get this 'in the post' - I just think he got a thin friend to pose with him!

Aston Hill, and a new member

2007-07-10T02:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon involved a visit to Aston Hill - Garry, Duncan, myself and 'Dave' along with one of my neighbour's, Mark.

Unusually for the current weather, it didn't rain, but the ground was wet and slippy.

We split into two groups, Garry and Duncan went off for the XC, and we went for a 'play'. Mark hadn't ridden this year, so struggled a bit with fitness.

Only incident of note, was Duncan falling off 3 (or was it 4) times at exactly the same place on the top XC loop...

We spent the afternoon there, and enjoyed it.

Next weekend, its Coed y Brenin - yippee.

Muc-Off !! - 29th June

2007-07-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Bruce and I headed off for a quick blast around South Oxfordshire, near to Christmas Common. The rain was in the air but never actually started, however the ground was very wet and muddy, will the Summer ever arrive? The ride was good with some excellent downhills that really tested the brakes in these conditions, and some punishing uphill sections, of which two were impossible due to a lack of traction at the back wheel. My uphill riding has improved and apparently the expression for this according to the other two is "bandit", a term I am not used to with regard to sport but refers to the fact that they think I am better at uphill riding than I make out. The reality is I am just getting fitter, and as far as I am concerned Garry still wears the polka dot jersey.

After 3 hours of riding, covering 20 or so miles we were back at the car. Both Bruce and I looked as if we had been playing rugby, so it was time to get back home and use the miracle mud remover that is Muc-Off to clean the bikes.

On Friday the 13th (recipe for disaster), the three of us are off to Coed-Y-Brenin for a weekend of serious mountain biking.

New addition

2007-06-27T05:22:00.000-07:00

Nikki's new boy - won't be changing the carpets just yet, as previously planned.

Saturdays (Almost) Dry Ride

2007-06-27T05:10:00.000-07:00

As the boy Frost mentioned we had a good ride, but my backside does hurt after the flower-pot incident...

Mind you, the funny point was him finding out that the 2.1 Nobby Nic's on my Trek (that he's riding) with their quite tall profile are incompatible with Aylesbury Vale clart (mud) and consequently meant that at one point he just stopped moving...

And amazingly it didn't rain until the last tarmac stretch.

Looking forward to the weekend.

And then there were 3.........again !

2007-06-26T07:09:00.000-07:00

I decided to join Garry and Bruce on their leisurely tour of the vale on Saturday. We headed off out the back of Fairford Leys and onto the land surrounding Waddesdon and Stone. The going was sticky and muddy to say the least. All in all we did about 20 miles and it eased Bruce back into it, but 2 months out of the saddle and the fitness is bound to suffer. One comedy moment; Bruce fell off on to a flower pot outside a tea room in Westcott and he put his bionic wrist down first and it didn't break which is a big plus. Shame we didn't have a camera.

Bruce and I will be heading off for a tour of the South Chilterns on Sunday the 1st July to build both our fitness levels before we head off to Coed y Brenin in mid July. Can't wait.

Happy Birthday To Ya.......

2007-06-26T06:27:00.000-07:00

The day started out with the silly shoes at the bowling, Terry felt right at home as it brought back memories of his love for all things MOD, but he was disappointed the blue and red ones didn't come in his size; which is a 4. The teams were ready and with Steve running late we all covered for him and bowled well in his absence except Henry; who classically put the bowl in the gutter twice and then bowled a strike for his own team. The look on Bruce's face .........priceless. After round one the Genius team and the Specialized team were level at 310 with the Commencal guys lagging behind on 260 odd. So into round 2 and by now Steve had arrived, warmed up and hit a double strike. Garry, Henry and Erik also discovered their form. The Genius boys were lagging behind, and what with Terry trying out every weight of ball until he found one he could lift up which ended up being pink like his old car, we were losing. With a bit of sportsmanship aimed mainly at Neil, and a double strike from myself we were back in it. The Commencals won round 2 easily, but they were out of the final running. In the end us Genius boys won by 3 points. Competitive................. not at all !!!

So into the pub for a couple before it was time to head off and get ready.

The weather was trying it's best to rain, and luckily it pretty much held off. Pimms on the lawn was greeted by a dozen or so Penguins and not a meringue in sight, instead the girls looked fantastic and the cameras were clicking. Nikki looked amazing in her ivory number, anyone for extra melon in their Pimms !

Dinner was fantastic, but I am sure they forgot the veg. On my table was Terry and Amanda, Neil and Mel, Cheryl, Henry and Kelly. Mel delighted us with her stories of Neils recent antics and what with his lame attempt to chat up the waitress all in all a priceless evening. Can't remember too much else as the red wine went down particularly well.

Lastly, I would like to thank Nikki for her generosity and organising a terrific day and evening to celebrate her 40th. Welcome to the club.

2007-06-20T14:29:00.000-07:00

Bayf here.
I entered the Rough Ride event on the 3rd of June. On my own for this one as Bruce hadn't ridden in anger yet and Duncan still feels he can't manage this sort of thing. This is not a race, although we had timing chips fitted to our bikes, it's an organised ride starting and ending at Kington (mid-Walesish). The main route was over 75km but I decided to take the short cut option and just did the 42km route. I'm glad I did because the climbs were some of the longest and gruelling I've done and I certainly felt the effort when I got back to Kington.
I'd been checking the BBC weather website every half hour leading up to the event but it turned out well on the day. The trails were mostly dry and it wasn't too hot.
I'd done the same event (slightly different route) last year and it was baking all day. Thank you Mr Camelbak.
It's a great event because it's not a race, however there were the usual - "I'm tired, I'll stop in the middle of the track" riders, who mess up whatever rythm you've managed to keep going.
But generally a great event and you get a good t-shirt at the end (oohh!).
Hopefully we'll all be fit enough to enter next year.

I also finally took the plunge and bought a new towball mounted bike rack. I'd been borrowing my neighbors but he asked for it back the day before the Rough Ride which made up my mind to get my own.

One of it's first uses was to take Christine and I off to Salcey forest to tackle the 5 mile, flat as a pancake, beautifully surfaced forest cycle trail.
The big deal here is that Chris hasn't ridden her new MTB since I bought it for her two years ago so getting her to ride in Salcey was a great achievement.

Bruce and I are going to try an easy route around Buckingham this Saturday to see how his recovery is going. He certainly seems to have most of his flexibility back.

Box 2 (29 - 39)

2007-06-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

Alas, tis true. The end is nigh, or at least to being in box 2 (29 - 39). I'm told 40 is the new 30, unfortunately that's from 'girls' not even in their 20's !!!!!!!!!! What do they know ?. Having had time to sit down quietly and reflect (Bruce being away this week) many things have changed my life in the last ten years.

My 30th was spent alone in a pissed state feeling very sorry for myself. A knight in shining armour came charging to my rescue but Bruce pushed him off his steed grunting 'Oy, that's my bird....bugger off'.
14 months later came the patter of tiny feet and 'Dave' was born. (you do the math!!).
Still, now that we were a family, life might settle down and maybe we would stop moving house. (x2 so far).
'Dave' had more or less celebrated his first birthday when Bruce announced ' Ey up kid, ow do ya fancy livin int Germany ?'
MOVE NUMBER 3.
x1 bizarre wedding (page 27 of 54 Chinese girl-who couldn't speak German to UG German who could ONLY speak German but also couldn't believe his luck), x2 visits back home, x3 visits from friends, x7 nights touring up and down Germany, x40 German language classes, x10 months later and Bruce announces ' don't unpack that last box our kid, we're going back 'ome'.
MOVE NUMBER 4.
I'm happy to say that move number 4 has been a long term project, albeit Bruce has changed jobs over the last 5ish years but with 'Dave' in private ed. any other moves would have been financially impossible.
Mid way through my term of 30's I went through a 'mid term' crisis and took the plunge and went under the knife. Didn't help that the surgeon was gorgeous but came out feeling a lot lighter round the tummy and also in the pocket.
Child born, tummy tucked, so Bruce sent me back to work as any self respecting northerner would do. ' eey lass, int it time yo contributed tut bills un stuff '
Returning to Rothman's was like attending a school reunion. I was lucky, I worked 6 months then took 6 months off (conveniently falling between the months of April and September). I did that for 2 years running and then someone realised I was taking the piss and didn't renew my contract.
I had hoped that Bruce may not notice the fact that I was at home an awful lot after that but ever the control freak, back out to work I was sent.
I landed myself a temp position at HBoS having gone through the most ridiculously rigorous competency tests at Pertemps. They never could understand why I really wasn't interested in the results !!.
Onwards and upwards I forged my way through the ranks and finally managed to negotiate a more reasonable hourly rate. The low cut tops and short skirts bared no influence on the negotiations what so ever.
Along came Tia. The most beautiful 15.2hh bay thoroughbred. My Christmas present from Bruce. Only problem was, she wanted to kill me. It only took a few months to realise that the rearing and bucking was personal as apposed to something physically wrong with her. Two chooses - MacDonalds or re-sale. In hind sight I would have got more for her at MacDonalds but hey, it was Bruce's money !.
Sad and despondent I loaned a horse called Barney. I feel in love with him. I also feel off him and dislocated my shoulder, cracked some ribs and broke my collar bone. Naturally I drove home to find child care for 'Dave' first, before I took myself to hospital and within 3 days was back at work. (unlike some who take 3 weeks off to recover !!!).
Having moved yards I now loan Star. Crap name but fab horse. Much like Bruce I'm totally absorbed with my hobby and occasionally the guilt trip hits and I think about spending time altogether as a family. That probably only lasts a few minutes and I'm back down the yard.

So here we are. Friday night, 24 hours to go before the party and 48 before 40.

AM I BOVVERED !!!

The Bowling 40's

2007-06-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

In preparation for the party of the year on Saturday, and to escape the women, 10 pin bowling is on the agenda. To keep it competitive, the 40's have picked 3 teams.

The Genius team - Duncan, Terry, Norman and Paul (tbc)

The Commencal team - Garry, Erik, Steve and Andy (tbc)

The Specailized team - Bruce, Neil, Henry and Michael (tbc)

The winning team will be the one with the highest average score and there are prizes to be won.

Aston Hill Re-visited - 26th May

2007-05-27T05:05:00.000-07:00

Garry, "Dave", Bruce and I headed off to Aston Hill but with only 3 bikes loaded on the racks, yes it is still too early for Bruce to get back in the saddle. I was rather nervous about this outing, as although it was my second visit to Aston Hill, the first only lasted minutes due to the accident. This time, body armour was a must!

Garry and I headed off for the x-country course, 5 miles of what turned out to be very technical riding, whilst Bruce limped over to the "Bombholes" yes you have read that correctly, and the 4x with young "Dave".

The x-country course was tough and I came off a couple of times, due to a lack of confidence and a distinct lack of ability. Two sponsored Trek riders who went past twice, made it look all too easy. For some reason I was out of puff despite putting some decent training miles in during the week, and surprisingly even Garry was finding it tough going, but that was down to the 10 pints and a ruby murray he had the night before.

Garry decided to go for a second lap whilst I looked to get my second wind in the "Bombholes" section with young "Dave". After this and a bit of a mess around on the 4-x course and a circuit of the top loop of the x-country trail, we went back to the scene of Bruce's accident. After Bruce repeatedly stated "I can't see how I came off" we all agreed, as the jump is not really that bad, and to prove the fact "Dave", Garry and I had several goes progressing to actually taking off, well "Dave" and Garry actually, as you can see from the photo's.

After lunch and another hour or so messing around it was time to call it a day. Garry had managed to shed the calories gained from a Chicken Madras, "Dave" had managed to make jumping look far too easy and I overcame my fear of Aston Hill. As for Bruce, well it won't be long before he is back in the saddle, but riding this type of terrain.........who knows.

Pimms on the lawn

2007-05-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that Nikki will become a member of the roaring 40's next month. The party is going to be great.

Gorrick - Frith Hill

2007-05-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

<--The start of the Veterans Race, and somehow, our man has the Number 1 plate!

Later on lap 2, in a technical area--^

Gorrick - Frith Hill

2007-05-23T01:48:00.000-07:00

Garry competed in the last of Gorrick's winter series on Sunday in his usual Veteran's class.

Myself and Duncan went to support him, and take photos (will add later).

https://www.theimagefile.com/?skin=6899&ppp=60&pcp=1&ppwd=cp8507fr&Action=VF&id=4363914

He did well, although last full finisher, he improved on his previous times by being far nearer the distance leader than in the earlier races.

Distance winner - 59 min 48 sec
Garry - 100 min 36 sec

http://ccgi.timelaps.force9.co.uk/htdocs/GorrickR5_20-05-07.htm

Afan Forest 11th - 13th May

2007-05-20T12:27:00.000-07:00

I had spent all week looking at the weather forecast, and it didn't look good. Friday came and we duly set off just after noon and the weather was overcast but at least it wasn't raining. The journey to Afan was fairly trouble free but not long after we crossed the seven the heavens opened. Garry and I now had the task of pitching the new tent in the rain as quickly as possible. The dry run of pitching the tent in Bruce's garden several weeks earlier paid dividends, and within about 10 minutes we were under "canvas" so to speak, with a brew on the go.

We both decided against going for a short ride on the Friday due to the lousy weather and instead I enjoyed Garry's legendary cooking skills, washed down with several bottles of Speckled Hen. Following several more beers in the Cafe, we settled for a fairly early night.

Saturday morning and the rain had stopped, and following a quick breakfast we headed off to the trails. First up was Penhydd. Garry typically made climbing look far too easy, but we had both put on too many layers, so a quick pit stop half way up the first climb was needed to remove 2 layers. I found the climbs at the start of the trail tough. Following this seemingly endless session of climbs we were rewarded with a great downhill section called the hidden forest or something like that. It was an amazing decent, not fast but really enjoyable especially for a novice like me. After this, several more climbs led to another downhill section called the Sidewinder. WOW what a ride, banked curves and unlike the previous downhill section the surface was fairly loose and very exhilarating to ride on and down. This trail was an excellent introduction to proper mountain biking.

After lunch we headed off on the second trail, named the wall. The early stage of the trail was a fairly gentle uphill section, nothing spectacular but the rain that had threatened all morning was now upon us. This trail was, in my opinion, more technical than Penhydd especially the downhill parts, in particular the "Graveyard" which had me off the bike a couple of times. The final downhill section went on and on as did the "Graveyard" and by the end of these runs I was as tired as I was when I had to go uphill. Of the two trails I preferred Penhydd, and I think Garry did also.

Saturday night was spent in the Drop Off Cafe, where the food is fantastic as is the hospitality.

Sunday morning was wet, but the Whites trail was there to be conquered, even though it was slightly shorter than normal due to forestry work on part of the trail. I suffered on the early stages of the uphill sections, my legs felt weak from the previous day. It was worth it however, after a slight hesitation we did the black run and this was maybe the highlight of the trip, but as ever Garry made the descent look easy. In addition to this very technical part of the trail, a section of North Shore followed and this was yet another first for me, and the concentration needed to avoid falling off was immense. The rest of the trail was pretty much downhill back to the camp, but the rain had made the rocks quite slippery. This trail was on a par with Penhydd, but may have just edged it with the black run section.

Time to pack up the tent and the rain was now pouring down, however, we were both already wet so it didn't matter.

A great weekend, but I need to work on my climbing skills and fitness before the next trip.

A chip off the old block

2007-05-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

Christian, Bruce's son, following in his old man's footsteps - not!

2007-05-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Afan trip was a great success on a number of counts. Our new tent proved invaluable in allowing us to drink beer in relative comfort.

Duncan has experienced some truly awesome singletrack and completed the black run section of the Whites level trail without weeing himself. I also believe he achieved nirvana in the Hidden Valley section of the Penhydd trail.
Here he is on the final section of the Whites Level trail.
The Glyncorrwg Drop off Cafe was a great place to hang out in the evening and watch some fantastic Helmet Camera footage of the Les Gets trails that we'll be riding next year.

2007-05-14T03:58:00.000-07:00

My colleagues are missing me, a spoof newsletter emailed out...

29 April 2007
KEY MEMBER OF PHARMOLOGY TEAM HURT IN FREAK CYCLING ACCIDENT
A senior manager within the Alliance Healthcare IT team has been badly injured in a mountain biking ‘incident’ that has not yet been clearly explained.
Bruce Reed, Manager of the Net Services and IA Teams was injured at the weekend when he should really have been sitting at home watching TV with his family. Early accounts of the accident, in which Bruce’s left wrist was badly broken, suggest he was trying to complete a 360˚ spin from the top of a high ramp when he lost control and, well, fell off! Another theory is that he swallowed a fly while shouting ‘Geronimo!’ during a spectacular descent down a near-vertical track causing his centre of balance to swing violently to the left and pitching him over the handlebars.
Apart from the broken wrist, which has required considerable treatment, including two operations, to repair, Bruce has sustained a nasty gash to his leg, assorted bruises and a severely dented pride. By a tremendous stroke of good fortune, he managed to avoid landing on his face, so we should all still recognise him when he returns to work. He is now home again after spending a few days in hospital where various pins and plates have been inserted into his wrist to help the bones set. Bruce, a highy experienced Risk Manager, said "I had weighed up the risk of the stunt, but felt it was still within my ability to complete safely".
An eye witness who took the picture shown here, at the point where rider and bike parted company, stated that there was no obvious damage to Bruce’s, very expensive, bike – phew, that’s all right then!
Commenting on the accident, Bruce’s colleagues agreed that he really is too old to continue with this hobby and urged him to take up water colour painting or sudoku when his wrist is healed enough to hold a paint brush or pen and apply sufficient pressure to cause marks to be made on paper. It was unanimously agreed that on his eventual return to the office, a small amount of friendly ribbing would occur but it is expected that Bruce (being a plain speaking Northerner) would take all this in his stride.
Bruce is likely to be off work for a couple of weeks but as he will not be able to drive (or, fortunately, ride a bicycle) for several more weeks. The local taxi companies are looking forward to increased profits, and Bruce’s colleagues are looking forward to several, unscheduled, trips to Bruce’s house!
Rumours that he will require assistance with many everyday activities are, thankfully, unfounded and many of his colleagues are said to be very relieved about that.
We all wish Bruce a speedy and full recovery from his injuries and hope it doesn’t hurt too much.

Afan trip

2007-05-11T05:15:00.000-07:00

I sent the boys off (Duncan and Garry) to Afan this morning.

As Duncan is borrowing my Trek, I just reminded both of them that bikes cost money to fix, whereas the NHS is free...

Our trip to Afan Forest 11th May

2007-05-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

I have a feeling the weather won't be as good as this photo !

Garry at the Gorrick Enduro 6th May

2007-05-08T14:50:00.000-07:00

Well done Garry for completing the course. Hopefully next year all 3 of us will be riding in this event, maybe I will settle for the 2 lap option. Here is a couple of photos of Garry at the half way stage.

Aston Hill Hospitalises Bruce 28th April 2007

2007-04-30T03:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, weather fantastic and a leisurely ride planned at Aston Hill. This was my first ride at Aston Hill, although I am sure I tore around these woods as a kid on my 10 gear racing bike with cow horn handle bars, after all I was born and bred a few miles down the road in Wendover.

Bikes unloaded, off we went to the start of what I was told was a gentle downhill run. Christian aka "Dave" (Bruce's 8 year old son) went first and jumped over what looked like a fairly gentle mound. Next was Bruce and then me. As I looked up, after getting my shoe fixed into the peddle, Bruce was airborne. At this stage I wanted to laugh, how could Bruce have cocked this up ! It was then pretty obvious that something was wrong. Bruce hadn't got up and given a bow to the crowd, and the groaning gave the game away.......... he was hurt.

As I approached him, the first thing I saw was a gash in his leg that was about 4 inches wide and had opened right up...........so that's what muscle looks like ! It was then apparent that Bruce's wrist was also broken. Time for an ambulance.

Bruce spent a couple of days in hospital and arrived back home yesterday (Monday) after an operation to clean and stitch up the leg wound, and plate together his wrist. Pictures of the scars I am sure will be posted by Bruce in the near future.

Welcome to The Roaring 40's

2007-04-26T02:09:00.000-07:00

The Roaring 40's are currently Garry, Bruce and Duncan, with some new members just around the corner, namely Terry and Bruce's wife Nicky.

Mountain Biking is the main reason we are posting, as we have grown out of our Motorcycling romper suits (as the legend that is Jeremy Clarkson affectionally refers to leathers), and taken to pedal power.

The following pictures are from a quick blast around the Chilterns on Sunday the 22nd April which is right on our doorstep.