An early rise for me, kit and bike ready then Rob arrived at our door shivering, loaded his bike then we were off. The ‘Dougie Mac Cycle ride’ is a regular for the club with us usually having a good turnout. The start is at the Michelin Athletics club in Trentham, this year 16 from the club turned out.
Once we were all gathered we set off, the weather dry but a little cool. After a few miles we established a through and off system that we managed to keep going all the way to Llangollen. Our group had gathered quite a few other riders as we flew along, a very enjoyable first half.
Once we were all gathered we set off, the weather dry but a little cool. After a few miles we established a through and off system that we managed to keep going all the way to Llangollen. Our group had gathered quite a few other riders as we flew along, a very enjoyable first half.
Again in the car park a great atmosphere, many of the 1000 plus who do this event enjoying the now warm sunny day while refuelling. Most fuelling stations are good, if you like bananas!, so I just had a sandwich. It was great to see Claire and her 2 children there. She has been coming to encourage us for the past 5 years since the sad occasion of her brother’s death (25/03/2012). Only a car park, but we had a pleasant chat and laugh before setting off for the return
The climb up to Johnstown makes you realise your legs have been working but we were still altogether. ‘Through and off’ was started again, with a few like me avoiding the work at the front but appreciating the shelter. A short stop at Malpas for a comfort break, then carry on.
At around 90 miles the elastic started to break with Ade, Russ and myself dropping back and Keele bank sorting the stronger boys out, arriving back at the Michelin Club to a big welcome in the now hot sunny day at around 2pm
At around 90 miles the elastic started to break with Ade, Russ and myself dropping back and Keele bank sorting the stronger boys out, arriving back at the Michelin Club to a big welcome in the now hot sunny day at around 2pm
There was one incident of a flash car having a lady passenger shouting at us to get into single file as they sped past. At the junction ahead there was a little more intense conversation and a brief recital of the Highway Code, along with some timely advice on common sense for the driver and his passenger!
On a sad note, Leek Cyclists’ Club Members were sadden at the news of the loss of Uttoxeter Cycling Club Member Karl Payne during Sunday’s ‘Dougie Mac’ ride. Thoughts and condolences go out to Karl’s family, friends and fellow Club Members at UCC.
Thanks all for a great day, Dave M
All the riders along with our much appreciated supporters the Anderson family in & also look out for Jordan Hill’s parrot who makes a special appearance on the back row :))