Cheers & Greetings for next year

A great mulled wine ride on saturday morning to the Garden centre at Stoke D'Abernon 26 riders in 4 groups

Pre Xmas training

Our leader Jake

TT Mercian for sale

My beautiful ice bluepearl Mercian TT bike is for sale. It was built in 2003 and has done less than 100 miles. Size is about 60cm (from memory - I'm 6ft 1in) It has Campagnolo chainset, gears and brakes. All components are good quality. There are 2 sets of wheels - thin hps and sprints included. Minimum price accepted is £300 to me and £30 to KPRC funds. The frame alone was way more than that but I can't see myself racing again. It is in Wilton just off the A30 at a friend's house. His name is Nick Green work mobile is 7970 597438 House phone is 01722 744500. he's with his parents Nigel and Julie. Bike can be seen in by arrangement in their garage. I think it's 853 tubing - have asked Mercian if they can look it up and tell me. It has 'ordinary' bars. It's a beauty - some club members will have seen it when I turned up for a '10' South of Dorking that got cancelled (fortunately for me!) 'cos of roadworks. It will go on eBay after Christmas if not sold. My email is colincape@yahoo.co.uk. I am in Guatemala. Payment by cash or cheque to the Greens or PayPal to my email addess above.

American Supper Worcester Park

The final remnants

Cheam & Morden Post Xmas Lunch

To be held at The Hand in Hand Boxhill 12.30am 11th Feb 2007 £10 tickets from Steve at 02083982775 or Pete at 02083942665

This Saturdays ride

Hi All

Don't forget that this is the Mulled Wine & Mince Pie ride this Saturday.

Starting at 10am or rather after we've quaffed and chomped, and heading via road or track to Stoke d'Abernon for coffee and chats...all welcome

See you at Horton Park Car Park for the off

Blogging problems

Can anyone explain why when I log onto our blog under "bookmarks", it only brings up entries made to Oct!

AGM 2006 - minutes

Firstly my apologies to all. When I arrived at the the Clubroom I was dismayed to find that the room we usually use, both for the general club-meet and the AGM, was occupied by some other people apparently engaged in a meeting of their own. This was not good as I knew that the Clarencourt were also due to be holding their AGM on the same night, and really they have first dibs on the other room..... There were dark mutterings about usually booking the room to make sure we have it for the AGM, but that's the first I've heard of it in all the time we have been there - otherwise I would have made sure it was booked. (even if I can't find the minutes!!!!!)
As 20:10 approached and the only representative from the Clarencourt present was Barry, we began to think that as we seemed to have a quorum and with no real business to discuss (and no minutes - I'll let you know when I find them!) it ought to be a short meeting. Barry confirmed that their meeting was billed to start at 20:30, so without further ado we convened in the other meeting room and screamed through the meeting.
Hence my apologies for the confusion to those who made it before the meeting finished and for missing it entirely to those who came after we had relinquished the room back to the Clarencourt.

Minutes:
Present: Lisa, Florence, Jen,Joe, Rachel, Ann, Brian, AndyP, Iain, FrankC, FrankP, Mark, Paul, Simon, Jake, Pete, Ray, Ron & Doreen.
Those who attempted to attend but were thwarted by the short meeting: AndyA, Jackie, Chrystal.
Meeting commenced at 20:15
Ron was elected chairman. Prop Doreen, 2nd FrankC
Notice convening the meeting was read.
The minutes of the 2005 meeting not being present matters arising were taken from memory:
Ladies Points Trophy - Ann had said that she would like to present a trophy to the Club for this, Lisa reported that a number of suggestions had been made during the year, but that nothing had yet been sorted. Ann arrived and reported that she has purchased a new trophy and it is due to be delivered imminently - she has asked that it is NOT to be the Ann Bath trophy, but perhaps it can have "presented by Ann Bath" inscribed on it, as is the case with the Consolation Trophy (presented by the Powney Brothers). - What do you think, Ann.
70th Anniversary awards: again I said that I didn't think that anything has been sorted, but I am assured that it is in hand for the 11 qualifiers -
Club Champ
AndyA
Jake
Grant
Ann
Lisa

Women's Champ
Jackie
Florence

Men's Champ
Stuart
Ray

Vets Champ
Pete
Simon

Adoption of Annual reports:
Gen Sec Prop Pete, 2nd FrankP
TT Sec Prop Pete, 2nd FrankP
RR Sec Prop Joe, 2nd Doreen

Accounts Prop Ray, 2nd Pete

Election of officers and committee:
President - Ron Prop Jake, 2nd Pete
Hon Gen Sec - Lisa Prop FrankC, 2nd Iain
Hon TT Sec - FrankC Prop Iain, 2nd FrankP
Hon RR Sec - Simon Prop Lisa, 2nd Ann
Hon Treasurer - Doreen Prop FrankC, 2nd Simon
4 Committee members - AndyA, Jake, Grant, Brian (as before & en block) Prop Ron, 2nd Simon
Press Secretary - Florence Prop Lisa, 2nd FrankC - Florence was thanked for her excellent achievements in getting our name in the press this year, much more than for some years now, and instrumental in recruitment.
2 Auditors - Ray & Jen Prop FrankC, 2nd Simon

Propositions:
To pledge £25 to the Bec toward the prize for beating Gary's Hill Climb Record - CARRIED unanimously.

AOB
To incorporate the VTTA 10 mile Championship within our Open 10. Frank is O.K. with the idea, it seems that they will just piggy-back our event, with little extra organisation required. YES

Would the Club take on an RTTC Championship in 2009. MAYBE.
The meeting was not wildly keen, but were not prepared to rule it out as a future possibility, though not necessarily 2009.

Followed by a sealed vote for the Bert George Trophy (services to the club & not just 2006)
And the winner is........
Watch this space, as the winner isn't supposed to know who they are until the dinner!!!! February 24th 2007 - Stoneleigh Inn.

The meeting closed at 20:35 and we vacated the room for the Clarencourt to have their AGM.

At least I can look here for these minutes come next year......
Lisa

KPRC new members

Anyone want a portable TV?

I have a portable colour TV going spare if anyone would like it. Let me know – florence_hallett@yahoo.co.uk.

Florence

AGM Reminder

2006 Annual General Meeting

to be held on Thursday 7th December 2006 at the Worcester Park Athletic Club, Green Lane, Worcester Park, Surrey, commencing at 8pm.

All the paperwork has now been sent out, if anyone would like it sooner by email, just ask. I'm trying to get it all online, but I've still got other things to do.

Club subs for 2007 are due as of 1st November 2006. ie… Now!
Senior, 1st Claim membership is £15: Cheques payable to Kingston Phoenix RC

Hillingdon Coaching Day

SheCycles and the Surrey League are holding another women's coaching day at Hillingdon on Sunday 10 December. The last one sounds as if it was a great success, so I'm sure it will be a good day. However, they are promising another one in the New Year which sounds a more appealing prospect to me - not sure I really want to be doing anything much in December, apart from the obvious mince pie-eating, beer drinking etc. ... But if you are interested go to shecycles.com for further info!

Florence

C&M Dinner 2007

The date of the C&M's annual lunch is 11th February 2007. Declare your interest to Steve Gordon steveandann61@tiscali.co.uk & 020 8398 2775. More details published shortly.

70th Annivesary Lunch - result

Peggy Jones and Norman Redhead (original members) cutting the cake.

The excellent cakes that Ann made for the day.

Thanks to everyone involved - you know who you are - for the organisation of the day. I think it all went well, and everyone enjoyed themselves.

Any and all video footage of the day to Pete Mitchell asap and also digital pictures, and Pete will compile a DVD of the day. Orders of same to him (probably a £1 to cover costs).


Lisa

Old Cycle Touring Mags

Ron Powney has many years of the CTC Cycle magazine to give away to anyone who wants them.

Update on Redmon 10s

Here are further details of the Saturday afternoon time
trials, which will be held on the following dates: Nov 18th, Dec 2nd, Dec 16th, Jan 6th, Jan 20th, Feb 3rd, Feb 17th.
Events will start at 1400 hrs, entry on the line, sign-on, get a
number and ride. Parking will be in the usual car park in Inholms Lane. There will probably be a cup of tea afterwards. If you fancy riding down, 12.30 at Sutton station.

Florence

________________________________

Sample of my Nepal and Tibet photos

Hi Everyone,

A small selection of photos from my holiday. I'm not putting all of them up as I have over 600! The rest of the ones that I will select will be up sometime late November early December.

Click here for the link. These photos are from Kathmandu, on the roads in Tibet, Camping on The Worlds Longest Descent, The Worlds Longest Descent, and Mount Everest.

Enjoy

Paul

Redmon Winter 10s

Richard Hoskin of the Redmon has kindly informed me that they are organising 10s on the G10/42 course every other Saturday afternoon through the winter. They start a week tomorrow (18 November) and you can either ride out with them from Sutton station (leaving 12.30 I think, but better check), or meet them at Spook Hill for a 2pm start.

Florence

2006 AGM Notification

Kingston Phoenix Road Club
Hon President: R T Powney, Esq

Notice of the Kingston Phoenix Road Club

2006 Annual General Meeting

Notice is hereby given that the 2006 Annual General Meeting of the Kingston Phoenix Road Club will be held on Thursday 7th December 2006 at the Worcester Park Athletic Club, Green Lane, Worcester Park, Surrey, commencing at 8pm.

All motions for inclusion on the agenda, and any nominations for officers and committee members, must be lodged with the Honorary General Secretary at least 14 days prior to the AGM, no later than 23rd November 2006. All motions shall be in writing and signed by both proposer and seconder. Any nominations shall also be signed by the nominee indicating their willingness to stand: emails accepted.

Annual Reports, Agenda and other information will follow closer to the date of the AGM


Lisa Colombo
Honorary General Secretary

Current Committee - with unofficial Jobs

Hon President: Ron Powney
Hon General Secretary: Lisa Colombo - membership
Hon Time Trials Secretary: Frank Cubis
Hon Road Race Secretary: Simon Mitchell - clothing
Hon Treasurer: Doreen Powney
Committee Member: Andy Avis
Committee Member: Jake Dodd - Club Dinner
Committee Member: Grant Pyke
Committee Member: Brian Powney

Press Secretary: Florence Hallett

Auditors: Ray Dare, Jen Mitchell

Club subs for 2007 are due as of 1st November 2006. ie… Now!
Senior, 1st Claim membership is £15: Cheques payable to Kingston Phoenix RC

Guatemala

Here are 2 photos I took whilst cycling yesterday. 1 shows the gradual climb of 9 Kms to where I took the second picture of bike and my home valley in the far distance. You can see that the road surface is excellent. The only worry is of falling into a rain drain whilst wobbling slowly upwards in a very very low gear, or hurtling down at 50 to 60mph. This was only my fourth ride this year but I'm a little stronger each time out. Tomorrow I may attempt the ride to from Salama to Rabinal and back. It's just 58Kms but there's the little detail of a 10km climb to be dealt with in both directions. Fortunately here, if you get knackered, you just wait a few minutes for a bus - and I do mean a 'few' - there's 1 every 2 or 3 minutes and they cost peanuts.

I hope you are all enjoying yourselves.

Regards
Colin C

Surrey League Prize Presentation & AGM

2006 Surrey League Prize Presentation & AGM

Tuesday November 21st at 7:00 PM

East Grinstead Sports Club,
Saint Hill Road, East Grinstead, Sussex RH19 4JU.

The evening will start with a short informal AGM where all members are welcome
to give us their ideas for next season.

Then on to the Prize Presentation, hosted by Keith Butler.

This will be followed by clubs fixing their dates for their events next season.

A free buffet will be available throughout the evening.

RSVP glyn@surreyleague.co.uk

More information and how to get to the venue can be found at
http://www.surreyleague.co.uk/news/agm2006.htm

70th Anniversary - attendees

Andy Avis
Ann Bath
Arthur Beanland
John & Carolyn Beer
Tony & Ann Bensberg
Joe Bertorelli
Bill & Janet Bishop
Paul Burges
Lisa, Vic & Daphne Colombo
Rachel Croggon
Julie Crouch
Frank & Susan Cubis
Ray & Beryl Dare
Ken & Paul Day
Richard Delamare
Gary & Jake Dodd
Ray Drewett
Tom Fish
Mike & Joanne Fricker
Bob Green
Charlie & Jean, & Brian Griffin
Florence Hallett & Chris Biggs
Steve Gordon
Andrew Hewett
Kay Houston
Betty Johnson
Barry Johnstone
Peggy, Kenneth & Janet Jones
Mick & Jill Knight
Iain & Carolyn & Dave & Judy Margery
Mark McNamara
Pete, Simon & Jen Mitchell
Jackie Morgan-Smith
Brian & Helen Munro
Ron Osborne
Clive Oxx
Andy & Julie Pearce
Bert Powney
Brian Powney
Frank & Evelyn Powney
Gladys Powney
Mike Powney
Ron & Doreen Powney
Grant & Fran Pyke
Norman & Ruby, & Geoff Redhead
Den & Eileen Rosendale
Ron Rudd
Barrie & Barbara Sharp
Ed Sharp
Maurice Spear
Len & Jean Steel
Don & Shirley Stockbridge
Rosemary & Alan Tanner
Bill & Sue, & Ron Taylor
Chris & Cliff Thaine
Tony & Ann Tugwell
Roy & Pat Wibberley
Chris & Dalma Williams
John & Ros Wren

Sincere apologies to anyone who would have liked to come, but did not receive an invitation - there has been a scramble to find addresses for everyone and many were not found, even when they should be on record somewhere. Current numbers are 99 signed up and our limit is 100, so there is no room for second chances, I am afraid.

Lisa

Brighton Mitre 25 - result

Andy 1:6:52
Jackie 1:11:46
Ann 1:12:55
Jake 1:14:05

Event Winner Richard Prebble 53:20

Pictures by Paul J Wright here:
Index 15
Index 16
Index 17
Index 18

I think there are no changes to Year Bests or the Trophy allocation as a result of those rides.

So congratulations to Ann on clinching the Ladies Championship Trophy.
Lisa

Short Bec Hill Climb Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RilJnuW0ip4

Click on this and watch Gary nearly end up in the shrubbery !

Bec Hill Climb

Hero Gary Dodd and Bill Bell, joint winners of the hill climb in 1.49.07

And heroine Ann Bath, who rode all 4 hill climbs again this year

Women's Training Days

http://www.londoncyclesport.com/news/article/mps/UAN/1046/v/1/sp/
Have a look at this link if you are interested in doing training days in November. There's a women's only day (just an afternoon really) on 11 November which I plan to go to, but 2 dates open to everyone on 5 and 10 November. It would be more fun if anyone else fancied joining me on the 11th – its at Newchapel from 12-3 and costs £4.

Florence

Bec CC Hill Climb

Gary Dodd no longer rides for the Kingston Phoenix (having had a much better offer from Sigma Sport, of course), but being married to Jake he can't get away from us, so we were all there cheering him in the Bec Hill Climb on Titsey Hill, on the Surrey/Kent border.
He was number 20 in a field of 89-odd riders and, in his first Time Trial as a genuine "Vet" he shot up the hill in a storming 1:49.1 - not quite as fast as his 1:44.4 record, but a race-winning ride neverless. Then we had to wait for over an hour until the final man - last year's winner Jody Crawforth - to see if it would be the best time today.
Well, actually it was a lousy day for it: the rain started for the last 20 or so riders in the morning Catford Hill Climb on York's Hill, and got heavier and heavier. It wasn't an especially cold day, but the wind chill on damp bodies was pretty high, leaving the spectators shivering by the end. Once again this year, both Hill Climbs had the field and spectators to give the day the feeling of the classic events that these were 25 years ago - when the results of the two events would have been the top story in the following week's "comic" - and all this despite the rain.
The contenders came and went, and the PA system kept us up with the results. Only a handful of riders bettered the 2 minute mark, and Gary's name was repeatedly mentioned as the early leader. Then came number 85 - Bill Bell, winner of the morning's Catford climb. His time came over the PA system - another 1:49, but not the seconds yet. Jody Crawforth finished and the crowd surged up the hill after him.
Enjoying the closed road this year - by far the safest arrangement for the event and the general public, especially as the route around is trivial in a car - the crowd gathered around the result board. Crawforth's time 1:52. So at worst Gary was second....
The timekeepers conferred. A buzz went round the crowd - both riders had clocked 1:49.1!
The timekeepers looked at their watches again, and attempted to split the riders on hundredths but, no, they had both been clocked at 1:49.07 and could not be split.
So Bill Bell (Gemini BC) and Gary Dodd (Sigma Sport RT) are the joint winners of the 51st Bec Hill Climb.

Not bad considering that Gary's aim for the event was a top 10 place and 1st veteran.

P.S. Ann also rode and did 3:56.2 with 3:58.7 in the Catford HC in the morning - and of course, she rode the two Brighton Mitre Hill Climbs on Saturday, but I've no idea what she did in them - other than win a snazzy bottle cage!

(Jen, did you get a decent pic of Gary and/or Ann on the climb - that we can add to the post? Either email it to me, if you did, or put it in another post and I will put it together)

Lisa

We Welcome any new riders on our rides

After our advert in the Guardian Paper, we have had 5 new people out on our rides.
I would like to welcome them and any other people who fancy joining us for our lovely rides through the autumn.
It has been pointed out that we don't mention our runs on the home page and there is no phone no to find out more about them, so this is my phone no 01372 720061.

Jackie

Fred Buckner: 1928 - 2006

Just as we were looking forward to seeing Fred Buckner and his family again, at the 70th Anniversary Reunion, news comes from his son, Ian, of his death.

Ian writes:
"I have some sad news about Dad; He passed away late on Sunday night in Dorchester Hospital. As you know he was looking forward to seeing the Phoenix in November but sadly not to be. In the end it was a release for him as he did have a bad last few months in out of hospital. He died peacefully with his family there by his side all day Sunday.

He enjoyed catching up on the club website since he became an internet user a short while ago.

I have spoken to Ron Osbourne.

It will be good to see any of Dad's old cycling mates if some can make the funeral next Tuesday 24th October at Poole crematorium (service commences at 11:00am), Gravel Hill, Broadstone, Poole and afterwards at the Black Bear Hotel in South Street Wareham.

If you could possibly let people know and should anyone wish for further details my mobile is 07855 783092 (Mums home phone is 01929 551814).

Mum wishes that the money for the 70th lunch be donated to the club funds.

Thanks and bye for now, Ian."

The pictures above show Fred in 2003 when we met with him whilst on the Birthday Rides at Warmwell (colour), racing in 1976 (b&w) and racing in the 50's (sepia) [The last two from the Joe Picton Collection.]

Lisa

Hillingdon 25

A good day for me in this event after the aborted previous two events. My time 1.7.38 taking 1st on standard. Scratch winner -Danny Axford with 52.39. Chris Thain ex Phoenix rider did 1.10.33 with a puncture.

Redmon GP de Gents

Times now at beginning of line: (assuming that I didn't write the standard down instead!!)

43:54 08:56 No 13 Rachel Croggon/Joe Bertorelli
46:05 09:28 No 29 Ann Bath/Jackie Morgan-Smith
44:17 09:46 No 38 Jake Dodd/Chrystal Sheldon
DNS 09:48 No 39 R Hallett (Dad!)/Florence Hallett
44:50 10:28 no 59 Grant Pyke/Andy Avis

The "vet" being paced is in blue.

Good Luck everyone.

Lisa

KPRC in local Guardian

Florence our press officer has succeded where many including me have failed. She has got us and i think a photo in the Guardian page 42.
This is the best advert for our club and should get lots of local riders out on our runs.
The run this sat is to Stoke D'Abernon garden centre as many of us are doing the Gentleman Grand Prix.
Ann, Jackie, Andy and I are doing the Brighton Mitre if any one wants to join us?
Sunday week is the Bec Hill climb with a record 80 plus riders inc Magnus Backstead and Gary Dodd current record holder! A few of us are going out to watch it at 2pm and also the Catford in the morning.
Jake

Hillingdon 25 -15thOct

This is my last stab at a 25 as havn't got a time for age 80.
Interesting to note that ex Phoenix rider Chris Thain is on the Start Sheet.

Good week for Cyclists

Reported in "The Week" magazine...

after a police campaign in London to catch rogue cyclists netted twice as many motorists.
The drivers were typically caught stopping in space designated for cyclists or using their mobiles at the wheel.

Also from same mag....

Letters to the Guardian:

So it is proposed that cyclists should have bells fitted and use them to warn pedestrians.
On average, cyclists are responsible for two deaths per year and motorists are responsible for nine or ten per day.

The fine for driving while using a mobile phone is £60 and the fine proposed for consistently not using a bell is £2500 or even prison. Am I alone in thinking our legislators have completely lost the road safety plot?

Nigel Sherwin, Bath Cycling Club

Tom Boonen's behind (from)

At last I've cracked it.......

Chinese State Circus

I've got 2 complementary tickets for Friday 13th Oct, if anyone wants them let me know. Tel 0208 394 2665.
It'at the Hook Road arena , West Ewell.

Jen

Surrey Cycle Maps

The new edition of the Surrey Cycle Maps is out, Free from all local libraries and Council offices and cycle shops.
There are 8 to collect and the best bit is that on map 3, the Epsom one, We the Kingston Phoenix are on it!
If you remember we had a photo shoot at Horton Park back in the summer with my friend Denise who was helping Alan Fordham out .
I have sent E mails to Surrey County Council and Epsom Council to be put on their leisure and sports lists, as when I looked at them they had nothing on cycling at all. So we might get some new riders in!

VTTA 25 - Oct 1st - Result

Grant 1:9:31 - year best
Lisa 1:17:30
Jake 1:13:14
Ann 1:14:24

The mysterious Mr Brown is Didcot Phoenix!

So, no change to the Ladies Championship today, but I understand that Ann and Jackie are entering the Brighton Mitre 25. So Jackie needs to do a 1:9:20 to overhaul Ann and take the trophy. I think she is well capable of a time like that, but the crunch is can she manage it this late in the season.
The trophy is in Ann's favour at the moment, as she has done the rides and is there to be knocked off top spot - but someone needs to improve to do that. Jake still needs to do better than a 1:11:19 but isn't terribly excited about doing any more races this year. I've had enough (not that I'm going to take the trophy off anyone!!!) this morning my rear Ergo lever refused to change gear on my race bike, so I had to hastily swap pedals and wheels onto the lo-pro for this morning's event - something you can do without at 7 in the morning.

Anyone else ridden this weekend??

Lisa

Himalayas here we come

Hello everyone,

Just to let you all know its nearly time for my Dad and I to start our three and a half week journey across the Himalayas. We fly out to Katmandu on Saturday morning. The cycling starts from Lhasa on Friday 6th October and ends in Katmandu on Monday 23rd October. The rest of the time is for us to acclimatise and have a look around Katmandu and Lhasa.

Paul

Jake the Snake

I've found just the bike for Jake!:

http://www.konabikes.co.uk/2k6bikes/jake_snake_2k6.php

Windsor Half Marathon

Joe & Andy in action

Forthcoming events: October

VTTA 25 H25/2 - 1st October
14. Grant Pyke
29. Lisa Colombo
37. P Brown
39. Jake Dodd
64. Ann Bath

Yes, well, I'm not sure who P Brown is. I assume that it's a misprint rather than someone else entering in our name. Unless anyhone else can shed light.

Hillingdon 25 H25/2 or Redmon Grand Prix de Gentlemen - 15th October

Brighton Mitre Hill Climbs am/pm - 21st October

Catford Hill Climb (am) /Bec Hill Climb (pm) - 22nd October

Brighton Mitre 25 - 29th October

23rd/24th Sept Results

Ah, the H25/1 - London West's equivalent of Paris-Roubaix: without the smooth tarmac in between! Why do the councils find money for loads of yellow signs saying that x number of people have been killed in the next 300yrds of road over the last couple of years, but they won't make the roads safer by completely resurfacing them ....

Anyway I managed to improve my BBAR counting 25 time for the year by 9 minutes from 1:24:58 to 1:15:57. That takes my average over 18mph, which is ever so slightly more respectable! I'm not going to qualify for
a certificate as the average needs to be over 20mph - but it doesn't look as if Jake or Ann will qualify either as they are missing a BBAR counting event at one or other distance.

Oh, and today's winner Alex Dowsett 50:49 - National Junior Comp Record!

How did the Festival event go? If someone puts the results up as a comment, I'll add them to this post.

Thanks to Ann:

Festival 10 - Sat 23rd G10/42
24:59 Simon
25:08 Andy
26:27 Jackie - a pb?, I've lost track
27:48 Florence
27:56 Ann

Andy did a 25, & Jake & Jen both did 29's - seconds appreciated.

Jackie's ride was fastest lady on a road bike. Ann and Jackie have improved their 10 times, which moves Ann up to the top spot in the Ladies Championship and Jackie up to 3rd (displacing Florence).
John Beer rode the WLCA 10 on the H10/2 - still on his low gear - and improved another 3 seconds to 26:38.

Sunday
Ray & Chrystal had a wasted morning as the Sotonia 50 was cancelled due to the rain. Sadly that scuppered Ray's final attempt at the Vets Age Record after missing it by less than a minute last week (he did 2:23:28 in the VTTA 50 last Sunday) and also Chrystal's chances of taking the Ladies Championship as she can not now ride a 50 this season.
I did 1:19:41 in the Hounslow 25 the last BBAR counting 25 of the season, and my last chance to improve the counting 25 time.

Finally two more Comp Records today: -
Men's Tandem Yates & Hutch 43.36
Mixed Tandem Chris Madge & Astrid Wheatcroft Severn RC 48.12
On the R something or other in Wales.

Windsor Half Marathon
Joe & Andy ran. Results here
They both put in very respectable runs, coming well up in a field of several thousand runners.

Lisa

Slide Show by CCP

End to End Update2

Just called the hotline.

They have got up to between Preston and Lancaster at just shy of 24 hours and the attempt has been called off.

As yet I don't know why, but will add to this post if and when I hear anything more.

Lisa

Hoppo's comment from the Aborwood Forum below:

Hi peeps.
Richard decided that about 5 miles before Lancaster he could no longer continue. We had been on the rivet most of the day trying to make up for lost time and were steadily succeeding. Obviously this had taken its toll on him far more than I had suspected which was a shame because I was just gaining in strength. Anyway hats off to him, he is a hell of a rider and put in an amazing effort. Respect.
Looking on the bright side, what a good training ride being as I can now try and improve on my 50 time at the Yorks RC 50 on Sat!
Thanks for all your interest and thanks for everyone that helped us, Techno, Ian Franklin, AV tester, Stuart Kirkham,Andy Palmer, all the API crew and Steve Gelder, Mike Johnson and Steve Oxbrow, RRA officials, Frank and Christine Minto, Allsports International, Spiuk and Brian Kilgannon down at HMS Raleigh. Cheers.

Hoppo

End to End Update1

21 Sep 2006 09:17
Hi again,

Well, the riders are still going, but things are looking rather tough now.

They will have known before the start that they would have cross-winds in the first 100 miles, but that things should become more favourable after Exeter. However, those cross-winds were much stronger than they will have wanted, and were actually a bit more head-wind than originally predicted.

The result of that is that they were approx 1h 40m down at Exeter. The last report I have is that they had reached Cambridge (20 miles past Bristol) at 07:30, approx 2h 30m down.

Quite clearly, they will need to make significant progress during the next 12 hours to have a chance of getting the record.

Ralph

And from the message board:
21st Sept 14:15
"Just gone through 19 hours showing 345 miles so they are getting back on schedule. Both looking weary though through the last 8 hours of effort but will complete!"

Lands End to John O'Groats attempt

From the Secretary of the Road Records Association:

Hi all,

A brief message to tell you that the Chris Hopkinson & Richard Thoday tandem-bicycle Land's End to John o'Groats record attempt will start from Land's End on Wednesday at 7pm.

The current record is 2 days 2 hours 14 minutes 25 seconds.

They have a suitably good weather forecast for the first day or so, so should be well ahead of schedule through into Scotland. It's a little more difficult to predict how things will turn out on Friday.....

If any of you would like more info, and/or may be able to get out on the roadside, please reply and I'll give you the relevant details.

Also, if you know (interested) people who live near the route, then please let them know (and invite them to contact me etc etc).

Ralph

PS The contact number for information on progress is 01623 621 376

Forthcoming events

I'm entered in the North Hants 25 on the H25/1 on Saturday afternoon (23rd) and again in the Hounslow 25 on Sunday morning.

Colin McDermott's Roadman's 10 promoted for the Festival has attracted a bunch of our riders:
Florence
Andy
Ann
Simon
Jackie
Jake
Jen

Chrystal is rumoured to be in the Sotonia 50 - anyone else?

The following weekend is the VTTA 25 on the H25/2 and the Epsom 25 on the G25/53.
I have put a late entry in for the VTTA event (the handbook said Vet's only, so I didn't think I could enter, but it is listed as entry to all in Cycling this week) and some of ours usually ride the Epsom.

Lisa

17th September

Consolation Result - event and all points based on Hcp Time

Act Time Name                 Hcp   Hcp T   Points Awards
1:10:30  John Beer           11:30   59:00   7  7  1st Hcp/Trophy
1:10:15  Ken Day             10:30   59:45   6  6  2nd Hcp
1:15:02  Rachel Croggon      15:15   59:47   7  5  3rd Hcp
1:13:11  Jackie Morgan-Smith 13:00 1:00:11   6  4  4th Hcp/Fastest
1:15:12  Jake Dodd           14:00 1:01:12   5  3
1:03:33  Andy Avis            2:00 1:01:33   5  2
1:11:05  Paul Day             9:15 1:01:50   4  2
1:16:41  Florence Hallett    14:45 1:01:56   4  2
1:04:17  Joe Bertorelli       Scr  1:04:17   3  2
1:18:48  David Croggon       13:30 1:05:18   2  2
1:28:49  Mark McNamara       23:00 1:05:49   2  2
1:01:18  Richard Hallett (Sydenham Wlrs)

Points in brown are for Men's points comp, points in green are for the Women's points comp and black are Hcp Pts.

Ann rode the Severn RC 50 and recorded 2:26:13 which moves her up to 2nd place in the Ladies Championship, and with a slowish 10 in relation to the others, she has a good chance of improving that. However I understand that Chrystal is entered in a 50 next week - presumably the Sotonia one - and "only" needs just under 2:40 to take the top spot from current leader Jake. Ray was supposed to be riding the Kent CA 50, but I've had no feedback and can't find a result yet.

As the final Club Event, the Consolation finalised the points trophies for the year:
Andy is the winner of the new Men's Points Trophy (formerly the Club Events Points Trophy) with 108 pts, and also the Handicap Points Trophy with 64 pts. Jake takes the new Women's Points Trophy (and the committee had better get a Trophy sorted out by the Dinner!!!) with 84 pts (and co-incidentally is also the runner-up for the Hcp Tropy!)

Andy will claim the 12hr Trophy with 214.513 miles
Stuart the 100 Trophy with 4:27:40
both of these having been decided as there are no more events to be ridden to change the current standings.

Stuart is currently in pole position for the 50 Trophy with 2:4:24, a time unlikely to be bettered, but there are 2 more 50s to be run.

Joe is in pole position for the 25 Trophy with a 1:0:38 for someone to better, and still a number of 25s to go.

Current leaders in the Club Championship - Andy - and the Men's Championship - Stuart, are unlikely to be challenged. But Jake's lead in the Ladies' Championship is on very shaky ground. And Ray looks pretty safe at the top of the Vet's Championship (again!)

John Beer gets the Consolation Trophy for an excellent 1:10:30, which I assume was done on the low gear that he has been riding all year.

Andy and Joe have long since claimed the Kingston to Worthing and Brass Monkey Trophies respectively.

Ann is currently leading for the Ladies' 25 mile Trophy, but her 1:11:29 is not yet a guaranteed winning time.

Lisa

ECCA 12Hour BP picture

A better pic from Mike P

Consolation 25

CONSOLATION

CLUB 25 MILE TIME TRIAL

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 17th 2006

G25/47
START SHEET

8:05 - 5. John Beer
8 :06 - 6. Mark McNamara
8 :07 - 7. Ray Dare
8 :08 - 8. Paul Day
8 :09 - 9. Jake Dodd
8:10 - 10. David Croggon
8:11- 11. Peter Edwards
8:12- 12. Rachel Croggon
8:13- 13. Ann Bath
8:14- 14. Florence Hallett
8:15- 15. Joe Bertorelli
8:16- 16. Jackie Morgan-Smith
8:17- 17. Grant Pyke
8:18 18. Tony Tugwell
8:19- 19. Andy Avis
8:20- 20. Ken Day

SCCU 25 result

A still and cold day greeted the riders in this event.
Thanks to Tony and Jake for helping out. Please remember we need to produce helpers for next year to allow us to ride the SCCU events.
Commiserations to Ray who packed the wrong shoes.

KINGSTON PHOENIX ROAD CLUB

Club 25 Mile Time Trial
Incorporated in Southern Counties CU Open Event

Points and handicaps are for the KPRC club championships.

No Name                 Time    Hcp  Hcp/Time Scr   Hcp   Award
13 Paul Day            1-09-31  5-30 1-04-01 6/41   4/41
19 Mark McNamara        D.N.F.               1/18   0/23
24 Jackie Morgan-Smith 1-11-41  9-00 1-02-41 7/34   6/16
34 Ray Dare             D.N.S.               0/41   0/33
39 Grant Pyke          1-12-17  6-30 1-05-47 5/41   3/47
47 Andy Avis           1-02-35  Scr  1-02-35 7//103 7/59 1st Hcp
54 Florence Hallett    1-12-53 10-00 1-02-53 6/74   5/45

This is the final event in the SCCU championship for 2006.
Men had to do a 25, 50 and 100.
Women do 10, 25 and 50.
The provisional result may put a KPRC member in a good position in the SCCU championship!

The awards are presented at the SCCU luncheon at the end of the season.

SCCU 25 10th Sept 2006

7 of us down for the SCCU 25.
It is 10th September not 10th August as on the start sheet.

Here are the start and Club Handicap times.

7:13. 13. Paul Day 5-30
7:19. 19. Mark McMarnara 17-00
7:24. 24. Jackie Morgan-Smith 9-00
7:34. 34. Ray Dare 3-30
7:39. 39. Grant Pyke 6-30
7:47. 47. Andy Avis scr
7:54. 54. Florence Hallett 10-00


Award for 1st Handicap only.

Good luck lets hope its a good day.

Hilly12/Hill Climb Result

30th CLUB HILLY 12 MILE TIME TRIAL (GS/281)
AND CLUB HILL CLIMB CHAMPIONSHIP

NO NAME                TIME   HCP HCP-TIME   HILL CLIMB  POINTS
3  Damian Poulter      36-55  Weybridge Whls 2m 02.69sec
4  Roy Instrall        42-31  Morden CRC     2m 37.25sec
5  Bob French          46-28  Weybridge Whls 3m 12.23sec
6  Lisa Colombo        51-00  15-00 36-00    3m 13.82sec 3/7 3
7  Andrew Hewett       41-55   4-00 37-55    2m 22.31sec 4/2 5
8  Florence Hallett    47-19   6-00 41-19    2m 55.16sec 5/2 4
9  Tony Tugwell         DNS
10 Joe Bertorelli      39-26  PTT            2m 19.45sec
11 Jake Dodd           48-46  6-00  42-46    2m 23.11sec 4/2 6
12 David French        38-08  Weybridge Wlrs 2m 14.14sec
13 Peter Edwards       40-52  0-45  40-07    2m 26.53sec 5/2 4
14 Andy Avis           39-10  2-00  37-10    2m 12.81sec 6/3 6
15 Rachel Croggon      42-46  5-00  37-46    2m 41.79sec 5/2 5
16 Grant Pyke          43-07  7-00  36-07    3m 31.79sec 3/6 3
17 Brian Powney         DNS
18 Jackie Morgan-Smith 42-03  5-00  37-03    2m 18.62sec 7/5 7
19 Gary Dodd           32-25  Sigma Sport    1m 36.18sec
20 Simon Mitchell      37-07  Scr   37-07    1m 57.70sec 7/4 7

HILLY 12 AWARDS

1st Fastest: Simon Mitchell
2nd Fastest: Andy Avis
Fastest Woman: Jackie Morgan-Smith
1st Hcp: Lisa Colombo
2nd Hcp: Grant Pyke

HILL CLIMB CHAMPIONSHIP MEN
1st: Simon Mitchell
HILL CLIMB CHAMPIONSHIP WOMAN
1st : Jackie Morgan Smith

Marshals : Judy, David, Ben, Nicholas, Iain & Carolyn Margery. Frank Powney.
Pusher Off : Ron Powney Hill Climb start time keeper : Doreen Powney

Unfortunately, Jake took a tumble at the last rbt at the top of Givons Grove but carried on to finish.

Frank Cubis

Leather sofas

Heather has two cream leather sofas for sale. A 2 & 3 seaters.
Contact siandjen@kprc.org.uk and we will let Heather know.

Phoenix training rides anniversary 2nd Sept

Horton Park meet.

Hilly 12 - start sheet

09:06 6 Lisa Colombo 15-00
09:07 7 Andrew Hewett 4-00
09:08 8 Florence Hallett 6-00
09:09 9 Tony Tugwell 12-00
09:10 10 David Croggon 4-00
09:11 11 Jake Dodd 6-00
09:12 12 Ann Bath 9-00
09:13 13 Peter Edwards 0-45
09:14 14 Andy Avis 2-00
09:15 15 Rachel Croggon 5-00
09:16 16 Grant Pyke 7-00
09:17 17 Brian Powney 1-00
09:18 18 Jackie Morgan-Smith 5-00
09:19 19 Jen Mitchell 6-30
09:20 20 Simon Mitchell Scr

ECCA 12hr - Thanks

What I forgot to mention on any of the previous posts is:

Particular thanks to Pete & Jackie for helping at least 3 of us all day.

Also to Simon & Jen, Ron & Michael, Andrew (& Neil), and Steve.

It is possible to do a 12hr (or even a 24hr) without help, but as was mentioned by someone on the TT message board: "your helpers allow you to get the best out of yourself".

One of the nicest things about the 12 hour is how sociable it is because you keep seeing the other riders and lots of helpers during the day. It is nice when there are a number of riders from your own club, because you get to see their helpers as well as your own. It was also nice having support from our friends in the Addiscombe and other varied folk who either knew me or seemed to be cheering us on because we had a women's team riding the event.

Lisa

Brian Powney in the 12hr

Picture by Andrew Hewett

ECCA 12hr - split times

Photos of the result board, showing the split times for the entire field - not sure how readable it is though, you might need to save to your own PC and enlarge with an image editing program.

Rider 50 100
LC 2:50:27 6:05:52
AB 2:44:32 5:47:56
JD 2:42:27 5:21:18
BP 2:23:49 5:22:35
GP 2:43:06 5:49:00
AA 2:30:11 5:08:25

Lisa

Phoenix Training Rides Anniversary

This sat will be one year since the training rides begun!
I hope as many of you as possible will join us for the anniversary ride this sat.
I will be giving out chocolates to everyone who comes!
Spread the word that everyone is welcome, as there are slow rides as well as fast, and the mountain bike section has really taken off !

Also, there has been a lot off interest in the Majorca trip: Jake, Gary, Peter, Andrew, Jen and Simon, Florence, Rohan, Andy, Jackie, Rachel and Chrystal (the star wrestling duo) and Dave Matthews. So I shall need forms in soon to post off.

See you at hilly 12. We are going up to London by train to see tour and have drinks with Kingston Wheelers.

Festival RC Roadman's 10

FESTIVAL ROAD CLUB "ROADBIKE" 10

SATURDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER 2006 - 2PM

Course : Popular G10/42 (Nr Dorking)

For the third year running, there will be an optional prize category for " Road Bike Riders" as well as standard TT bikes. To qualify its quite simple, No Tri-Bars, NO Discs & No Aero Helmets (standard hard shell preferred).

MINIMUM £200 PRIZE LIST!
·       How fast are "Testers" without all the aero kit?
·       Can you beat the Road Bike event record - 21.58

Entries on CTT forms to:

Colin McDermott,
Flat 2,
77a London Road,
Ewell,
Surrey,
KT17 2BL

Tel 07775555449

Email: mcdermottcolin@tiscali.co.uk

Entry Fee £6.50   Closing date 12th September

Women’s Road Riding Coaching Day – Hillingdon Cycle Circuit – October 15th

www.SheCycles.com and the Surrey League have joined forces to offer a series of women’s specific cycle coaching sessions throughout the winter.

The first of these women’s sessions will be held on Sunday 15th October from 9.30am to 4.30pm and will feature a full day of coaching and advice, based at the Hillingdon cycle circuit, which is closed to cars and will be used exclusively by SheCycles for the day.

The aim of the sessions is to give women both the knowledge and technical skills to make them comfortable riding a road bike for commuting, training and potentially even racing.

At the first session there will be an opportunity to meet a range of female friendly experts who will help you get the most out of your bike and your body, these will include:

· John Leitch, a fully qualified BCF coach, who will provide coaching for the ride sessions. John has worked tirelessly to encourage women of all standards, ages and backgrounds to improve their cycling experience and ability

· CycleFit the best human to bicycle fitting service in Europe will give you a free mini consultation to check your position and set up and give you advice to improve your ride comfort and efficiency

· Mel Alwood a qualified female bike mechanic will show you how to look after your bike so that it looks after you!

· Karen Burt a specialist yoga instructor will demonstrate essential stretches that will help stay strong and ease any post riding aches and pains

· Steve Ellis, a qualified sports masseur, will show you how to look after yourself after riding and give you a feel for how the professionals are treated

· Helen Ellis, the membership secretary of the WCRA, who support women in all disciplines of cycling, will talk to you about training and how to get into racing

· Helen Biggerstaff from the CTC will be on hand to talk about what they do to make enjoyable, safe and welcoming for all

The day will include sessions both on and off the bike and there will be plenty of time to get to know the other riders, enjoy a healthy lunch, chat informally to the experts and meet the SheCycles team.



Summary of the day:
Date/Timing: Sunday 15th October from 9.30am to 4.30pm
Where: Hillingdon Cycle Circuit, Springfield Road, Hayes, Middlesex (parallel to A312 Hayes By-Pass which links Junction 3 on the M4 Motorway and the A40/M40)
How much: £10 to include lunch, tea/coffee and cake
Why: To meet other cyclists, improve your riding skills and earn cake

What are the dates for next sessions:
Sunday 5 Nov: location TBC
Saturday 11 Nov: 11.30 am to 3pm from Newchapel Village Hall, 4 miles east of Crawley
Sunday Nov 19: 11.30am to 3pm from Brockham, Dorking

Places will be limited so please book in advance by emailing editor@shecycles.com

The Women’s Coaching day is brought to you by SheCycles.com in conjunction with the Surrey League www.surreyleague.co.uk who aim to provide a full year’s cycle racing for all categories of riders, especially at grass root level.

Tour of Britain - for the spectators

I have received the following kind offer from the Kingston Wheelers:

"Hi Lisa

I work at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) HW on Parliament Square and they have agreed to open the bar and cafe on the day of the Tour of Britain finale Sunday Sept 3rd.

I and the Kingston Wheelers would be delighted if any of the Phoenix wanted to join us and make use of the facilities. It's much nicer and more comfortable than standing by thre roadside all day and is opposite St James Park where the pros will be doing a 20 lap finish.

Regards
Lindsay"

If you are going up to London, and might take Lindsay & the Wheelers up on this, contact me and I will let you know how Phoenix members can take up this kind offer, as oppose to anyone else who comes across this blog posting.....

Lisa

12hour Riders

My first 12-Hour

Several people asked my during the preceding days about how I felt about the event. I am afraid that my answer may not have been what they were looking for. There were no sleepless nights or panics. I tend to just put these sorts of things out of my mind until I get to the start line.
After all you have done the training (err no) and all you have to think about is the food (lummy what do you take?).

So I arrived on Saturday night with half a supermarket of food and still forgetting to pack my usual breakfast.
Lisa had thoughtfully booked us in to a Motel so that we did not have to drive up that morning and we would all be together. Something the 24-hour team didn’t do.

All I can say about the start is that it was dark and early. But at least it was not raining.
I watched the others set off ahead of me. Brian wishing me luck and shaking my hand before he to headed off into the gloom. According to the Handicap he was favourite and he had done plenty of training to ensure that he would win the event.
My only team order was to ensure that I got to the finish circuit. Ahead lay a long road and what comes after 100 miles is a great unknown because I have only ever ridden that far.

The first leg was a never-ending dual carriageway. And it was a long lonely ride. At one point I wondered if I gone off course, but was soon reassured by a Cycle event warning sign.
The strong head wind made me glad that I chosen to start the event on the Lo-Profile bike with a Disc Wheel. There were a few raised eyebrows at the start but this set up works for me when it comes to a head wind.

Fifty miles passed very slowly but I figured that what ever I did was going to be a PB so I just kept an easy pace. Then the Heart rate monitor went down and I had no idea if I was going too hard. (For the benefit of several readers I set this up and was trying to not go higher than a certain figure.) I became more concerned when I started to catch other riders including all of the KPRC except Brian who seemed to be pulling out a gap as I sighted him at each turn. But I felt fairly comfortable so I maintained the pace.

As I left the first circuit there was a little confusion as the marshal shouted straight on. I think he meant left so I had to stop and check to see if I was on the right road. Just ahead were Pete and Jackie with a spare bike. I had planned to change from the Lo-Pro to a road bike at 80miles and just as well too because the chain was jumping off some of the gears. Something had stuck to the rear block.
At the changeover Pete said that I was not far behind Brian and it occurred to me that I might be able to catch him. One lap later saw the 100-mile board and I felt so comfortable that I upped the pace a bit. What ever I did now was unknown and all I have to do is get to that finish circuit. When I passed Brian I got a real lift. Sad to report that he was suffering with his back. Obviously my plan to change bikes and positions was a good one.

The next circuit was awful, and I wish that I changed back to the Lo-Pro because it was on a never-ending leg into a head wind. I could feel it dragging me down and my shoulders and back were really aching from the strain of it. Just before the turn Jackie and Pete handed up food. Pete pointed out that I should have used the inner ring on the hill.
Thanks Pete, I had actually forgotten that I could do that.

The next circuit saw me sail past Duxford Airdrome several times. Interesting things were flying around. At the start of the circuit more food awaited and the supporters club were comfortably located at a Pub on the far side of the circuit.

Finally, finally we get to the finish circuit. I look at the watch and realise that there are still two hours or so to go. There are plenty of helpers offering sponges and bottles, unlike Lisa I decline.

At 11 hours I puncture!
The traffic on the short section of the A11 that we were using was worrying me. Lisa had said that she had no problems riding on the inside of the rumble strip, so I was doing the same. I am not happy doing this, as first you are effectively riding in the gutter and it is full of rubbish. Secondly traffic on the main road will try to stick to its lane and come even closer. I often felt like I was going to be sucked under some of the Arctic’s.
Anyway I punctured and lost three or four miles. Seeing the some of the other riders coming past caused me concern that I may lose the club championship. I got just enough air into the tyre to get to the car parked about a mile up the road. Where it could be attacked with a track pump.

Then I was off again to try and recapture the lost miles. I can’t recall how many laps I did. I tried to make a note of the timekeepers, as Lisa’s instruction was that you have to go to the next timekeeper after you run out of time. Now there were some places where there was loads of people shouting of numbers and reassuring beeps that made it pretty clear that this was a time check. One check had a number by it and that was also clear. But there were people out there who writing things down that were not timekeepers. And there were also uneven gaps between each position.

“Eight minutes” was shouted out.
I thought that I had only four or five. Another timing post flashes past. I look at the watch. The next comes past, was that seven or eight minutes. I try to catch the timekeeper’s eye but he doesn’t look up.

I go on.

The edge of the road is empty for what seems like miles.

I see Lisa and Pete parked up. They shout out “we are here”, I shout back “where is the timer?”
But my words are lost in the wind.

I ask the next marshal, he shrugs.

Someone is standing by the road with a watch and a pad.

“Are you a timer?” I shout,

“No keep going”

Ahead is a guy with a car. Beyond him is Lisa. Beyond that is another two miles or so before the large group of people with the bleeps and shouting of numbers.

“Are you the timekeeper?”

He looks at me startled.

“Yes, yes you can stop”

Thanks to all the marshals, the timekeepers and of course the helpers.
As I sit here writing this 3 days later, my legs still ache and certain other parts are non too comfortable. I have done it now. I don’t have to do it again. But I wonder, that if I did it again could I go that little bit further….

As the bike was getting loaded on to the car for the short trip back to HQ, two Spitfires flew overhead. Perhaps it was a victory salute, or like us they knew that it was time to head home for tea and a Bacon Sandwich.

ECCA 12Hour TT

ECCA 12hr - Provisional Result

215 Andy Avis
212 Jake Dodd
204 Brian Powney
195 Grant Pyke
187 Ann Bath
175 Lisa Colombo

How hard was that?
Well we had a hard day for it alright. The wind was very strong, although the rest of the weather wasn't too bad with warm sushine in between the occasional heavy showers. At the start they were handing out a second set of numbers to those riders that wanted an extra number to put on the rain-gear.......

Actually the HQ was positively buzzing at 5am, with someone making tea for the riders (and anyone else) before the start - not something I think I've ever come across before, even last year at this event. The morning was not overcast enough for there to be a delay so we were off on time. Well I - and probably everyone else - felt really good for the first 25 miles. And then we turned into the headwind! 22 miles back into quite a strong wind knocked the stuffing out of many of us.

Brian was the first to catch me, coming by before we'd even left the A14 on the northern leg, he was going well and taking full advantage of the tailwind - and holding it for a pretty strong 2:23 for 50 miles. Ann came by immediately after Brian, but then she didn't actually go away from me and I was intrigued at the way she seemed to be fidgetting all over the bike - the sort of thing I was doing 10 & 1/2 hours later when I had run out of comfy spots on the saddle. I was settled on the tri-bars and felt smooth and had no trouble going back past her again, but obviously - if she'd caught me for 2 mins - she would come by again shortly, and so she did. She certainly seemed to be trying a lot harder than I was - that's probably why she goes faster than me!!!
An hour later and Jake came steaming past, riding smoothly and strongly into the headwind. Down to Fourwentways and what a relief to turn with the wind behind again for the long hike North. (O.K, and East!). Somewhere along here Andy came past with a much too cheerful comment and I tried hard to keep the speed up with the benefit of the wind. Onto the A14 and then I'd swear I saw the A11 signed and followed the left lane off. Round the stupid helper's car stopped in the way and "hang on a minute, this isn't the A11! ********* (fill in your own expletive), now what?" It didn't look like a straightforward up-and-over junction so I hopped off the bike and legged it back down the grass and back onto the A14. Grant came past while I was doing the cross-country bit. Why? I'd been up there only 3 hours earlier. I think "away with the fairies "covers it. Ask any of the 6 of us what we were thinking about for 12 hours yesterday.

The car was checking us through at the Red Lodge turn - good stopping spot to feed - and I got the bottle that I'd declined earlier. So I was already drinking less than anticipated.....
Oh joy! another 22 miles into the teeth of a headwind. 4 hours done and 70 miles covered. Ah yes, and another 16 miles to go till I join the Six Mile Bottom circuit. The relief to turn at Fourwentways again, over the level crossing and onto the circuit with 86 miles under the belt.

Oops the car is the wrong side of the 100 mile point, but it didn't matter on this circuit. Pass the 100 mile timekeeper for the first time - 88 miles covered and a 12 mile lap to go to get the 100 mile time. By now my rear mech was very sluggish - I assume a new gear cable had stretched. Problem: I like to try to ride to 100 miles without stopping, for the split times; but the car has the spanner to allow me to re-tighten the cable and they are just before the 100 miles point. I won't be doing another lap of this circuit, so I need to fix the gear now. The climbing, going north on the circuit is helped by the tailwind, the south-westerley diagonal is a battle with the wind, and then some respite as we turn east and finally descend to the start of the circuit. Andrew H is there with the camera, a pleasure to see a familiar face.
Approaching 6 hours for the 100, I succumb and stop by the car for the spanner. While I'm there I massage the legs with Deep Freeze gel as the pre-cramp spasms have already started in the thighs. Simon digs out some sausages for me and I take bites from the packet in his hand whilst still massaging my legs - taking care not to bite his fingers! Perhaps I should have fed myself and got him to massage the gel in!!!!
The rain had been occasional spots (for me at least) up to that point, but whilst at the car it tipped it down briefly. Now sodden, I put on Simon's club gilet over my racing vest - borrowed so that the number could be seen from under it - and on my way again.
Another stagger round that circuit and then the bit I didn't relish: back south to Fourwentways and beyond - around 5 miles - and then a right turn onto the A505 and around 10 miles to the Royston turn - all into the wind. By now the sun was out, and the day warming nicely - however there were still to be some heavy showers on the unlucky riders and helpers. Not far along the A505 Simon & Jen were in a layby with the chairs out enjoying a coffee. I stopped. "Is there anything you want?" "Yes, I want to stop."
Trouble was I was committed to making up the team for the Ladies Team Record. All we needed to do was finish 3 Ladies - in the same 12hr event. The club's been around 70 years, it's about time we set a 12hr Team Record. All I had to do was get to the finishing circuit. Once all three of us were on the finishing circuit we had the record, but for me that was still best part of 30 miles away.
I sat down, I stretched my legs, I drank some of Jen's coffee, I dumped my sleeves on them and then I got back on the bike. As I rode on, I thought of a comment made on holiday earlier in the year. Some of the group did an evening detour, with an extra 500m of climbing in about 5 miles to a ski station - with a 12 mile descent back down and then on to the hotel, afterward - 8 of us did it, most of the others frantically offloading panniers to their partners to limit the weight. I rode up there with my full holiday load. I met most of the others on their way back down while I was still clambering up. I anticipated climbing up until I met our friend PeteH on his way back down and then turning round. When I finally got there, there were two bikes left: PeteH's and Terry (Terry from the Midweek Section). My line was "I thought you'd have moved off by now". The reply - "Well, I knew if we waited here long enough you'd turn up"
Those words rang in my ears as I staggered toward Royston - it's not easy trying to freewheel into a headwind on the flat. I think I was doing about 10mph along there. Over the motorway junction, past Duxford airfield - they've built a hanger for the Concorde there, shame I was looking forward to seeing her - and on, and on. Past the layby where I expected Pete to be - although someone else's helper WAS there. I was getting more and more tired and demoralised because the car was not where I had expected them to be. Finally I stopped and dug something else to eat out of my pocket, before the final stagger up the hill and then the drop to the RAB at the Royston turn. I got on again and there was the ****** car at the top of the hump. (Note to 12/24hr helpers - you will ALWAYS get something wrong in the eyes of your rider - somewhere during the day!)
I rolled up and stopped again. The answer to the inevitable question was the same: "I want to stop, pack, give up and go home. I've had enough. I'm not enjoying this."
Another sit-down. More of Andy's coke (thanks for bringing so much, but next time I don't think you actually need to empty Tesco), some quiche, more gel rub - on my back this time, and off again. Obviously refreshed after the stop, a nice freewheel to the RAB, a slight shock that the marshals have gone - O.K., by now it was 14:15 and I'd seen the last of the field headed the other way 20 minutes or more ago - I knew it was the turn, no question, even though the turn sign had been blown in on itself and was pretty unreadable. It was more of a shock to turn and see no.1 coming the other way - turns out he'd inadvertently taken himself off to the finishing circuit somewhat too soon and done ~5 miles of course, and it was his helper waiting patiently where Pete was supposed to have been - not knowing if he'd ridden the course before I frantically made turn signals at him as he went the other way and shouted "no marshals", although I don't suppose he heard. The lack of marshal didn't bother me too much, but I was concerned that we would be missing from the check that proved we had made it to the turn.
Revitalised by the tailwind I bombed along back toward Duxford - 22mph rather than the 10mph the other way.
Onto the afternoon/Fowlmere circuit, another brief stop by the car - I'd unloaded my pockets a bit too much at the previous stop. I knew I would only be doing the one lap of this circuit, but Pete was unconvinced and trying to keep track of 4 riders. Another nice descent, coming onto very wet roads - I'm glad I missed the downpour that caused that - and sadly another left turn into the wind for the long diagonal of the circuit. Jake came by again, still steaming along. Past the gang sat at the table outside the pub, I caught a flash of the Phoenix tops there and spotted Andrew's brother Neil; past the campsite that Ann, Steve, Simon & Jen stayed at. The Shaftesbury CC were providing water & sponges on this stretch and as I battled into the wind I thought that there wasn't much need for them to run to hand bottles & sponges as the riders probably weren't going too fast here.
Another left turn and back onto the A505 with the tailwind. It struck me that this time it was much harder to steam along this bit. Stopped at the lights outside Duxford again. Grant caught me here, again. Over the motorway again. Past the left turn into the Fowlmere circuit - actually I didn't plan to turn down there again, whatever the marshals indicated - fortunately they indicated straight on and I nodded gratefully. 150 miles covered and I was heading for the first timekeeper on the circuit (timekeeper 0!), with about 2 hours to go.
That first timekeeper is the golden target, get to him and you are guaranteed not to be DNF whatever happens after. As it happens, on this course, you actually join the "finishing circuit" before you reach timekeeper 0, so you pass timekeepers 6 & 7 before you are officially on the circuit. Timekeeper 6 smiled at me as I passed, I imagined him amused that I was freewheeling on this slightly downhill stretch with the wind behind. On to timekeeper 0: that's it I will definitely finish now, I've made my contribution to the Team Record. I have a big smile on my face. Are the other two on the finishing circuit yet or still lapping on the Fowlmere circuit? I pass the Addiscombe crowd and shout out: "are the other 2 girls on the circuit yet?" but Linda isn't sure.
The Phoenix are in the same place as last year on the finishing circuit, near the top of the Little Chesterford leg. It is a good spot as they see us going down and then coming back out again. Last year Ann & I both finished at the timekeeper just before the car, and it's very handy for the HQ after. On the first time past I stop for more massage cream. They have seen Jake on the circuit, but not Ann yet - that would be ironic after all of this if Ann had a problem and didn't get to the finish. As I come out of the leg I cross with Ann going down: that's it, we've set the record - now we are just taking it higher until we run out time and settle on a total.
There are people handing up water and sponges around the circuit, I usually take whatever is offered - on principal - if they are standing helping I will make use of their efforts, but this year I am too knackered. I am torn between wanting it to end and - now looking at the possible distance from my mileometer - trying to cover at least 175 miles. That is beginning to sound a respectable distance.
I pass timekeeper no.6 again, freewheeling with the wind behind again, over the railway bridge and on to no.7. Rosemary has come out after work to cheer us (mostly brother, Brian) on and is stopped in the layby where no.7 timekeeper is. I shout to her that we have finally set the Team Record (this has been in the planning for 20 years, since Rosemary's day - we just couldn't manage 3 of us in the same event until now). Over the hump, that has now become a mountain, before the A11 junction, past timekeeper 0, on past the Addiscombe, where Linda shouts that all three of us (girls) are on the circuit and I reply "Club Ladies Team Record."
I'm lapping slower than last year and I'm beginning to think that I will finish on the opposite side of the circuit to the support team. I pass them again - without stopping for a change - the end must be in sight! It's suddenly occurred to me that I'm not sure how accurate the mileometer is and that I need to do more than 175 on that to be safe. There is a tailwind back past the car, and then a mile or so going North. I have less than 10 minutes to go, I plan to stop at timekeeper no.5 who is sited just to the left of the RAB where I have to turn into the wind again: but no, I have cocked it up I didn't start at 05:30, it was 05:34, there is four extra minutes for me to turn into the wind and climb toward the small RAB before the motorway. I clamber over the railway again, trying harder than I have for some hours, desperately trying to reach the next timekeeper. Time runs out 30 secs before the turn and then I sprint downhill with the wind behind to timekeeper no.6. I wonder if that amused him - if I'd tried a little harder when I passed him previously I would have reached him as I ran out time, rather than after. As I sprint I catch sight of my car, loaded with bikes as it has been all day, coming the other way.
I sit up for the final yards past the timekeeper - who I recognise from last year, but who doesn't have a number by his car - and give him the thumbs up and he nods to me. Gratefully I coast round the corner and then swing up the road to the left, Joe finished here last time we helped him in a 12, and we know there is somewhere to stop safely and load up.
I drop the bike and stagger across the road to the central refuge so that Pete can see as early as possible to turn in, I assumed that he wouldn't know that I had seen them coming the other way. He turns in and a black car goes left after him, I look at the traffic and stagger back across the road. Pete is hesitating before finishing the virtual 'U' turn into the parking spot, I assume he has got the gear wrong as he doesn't drive it that often, but it turns out that as he swung wide to make the turn to the left the black car has shot past on his inside and ALMOST caused an accident.
Pete is desperate to ride somewhere and offers to ride the bike back to the HQ, Jackie is encouraged to join him - leaving me with space in the car for ONE of the other riders - the car is so stuffed with food and wheels that they wouldn't have had room to scoop any of us up during the day if necessary.
While we unload Jackie's bike, Andy goes the other way so we shout to him, he gesticulates back - I'm not quite sure whether he hadn't quite run out time, or was just very confused by the fact that not all the timekeepers had numbers on display and not all of them necessarily looked like timekeepers if you didn't ride last year. On the other hand he has won the ticket for a lift back to the HQ, as he came along before I went looking for Grant.
We get back to the HQ and I am relieved to see that Grant and Jake are already there, sparing me the need to go looking for them.

I reckon all 6 of us deserve a pat on the back for finishing on a hard, windy day.

There was further good news at the result board. Jake won the prize for fastest woman. Grant came second in the event handicap. And the 3 VTTA members (Ann, Jake & Grant) won the award for the vets team on Standard. (And the Addiscombe were celebrating winning the team award in the event from API).

Next year has got to be easier......


Lisa