Monday, 20 October 2014

The Holly Bush at Cefn Y Bedd

At the start, Little Roodee Car Park.  



Lesley writes "I only stayed with the others to just past the coffee stop (at Jemoleys, Penyffordd I think) as I had to get back for something in the afternoon. We headed down the river path, across to Saltney Ferry, Bretton, probably near Kinnerton (where Kath, etc, joined us) and a fair old climb to Pennyffordd.  
I just wish I’d been able to stay for the climb up Hope Mountain – honest!"



These must be the climb up Hope Mountain....whichever way you go there are arrows!


I understand it was very very windy up on top of Hope Mountain!

Kath sheltering

Dave looking for his bike

Gill nearly being blown over!

Is this Bellis's in Holt?

Ian, leader of the day

Caption needed.............!
Many thanks to Ian for leading and to Ray for the photos.

Monday, 6 October 2014

The Red Lion at Winsford


Can you believe the field of Rape seed on the right?!

Autumn sunshine

Receiving further instructions

Cotebrook Mill pond


Cutbacks at the Shire Horse Centre
- very little horses of austerity!

Aaawwwww!

Saturday, 4 October 2014

Hill Climb and Freewheel 2014

The annual hill climb and freewheel events have a certain predictable quality about them.

We all meet in the car park at Llysfasi College...





















We then all ride along the road to the first left, and then to the first corner, where we assemble expectantly, chatting among old friends who we may not have seen for a while.

At this point there are shouts of 'car up', as Arthur always passes us here before the comp starts - and every year I forget he is going to come past.









Nearly every year the cows come across to the corner, to see what we are up to.  I guess they are new cows each year!










Approaching the finish line

This year the sun was shining, as we all took our turn to climb the hill.

Every year I forget how steep it is - although it really does not look it.










And when we are all up the hill, we get to enjoy the mostly downhill ride to the start of the freewheel.  I was chasing someone (I forget who, as I am posting 6 weeks later!) until I nearly met a tractor on a bend just as I was about to pass.  Brakes working well, at least!





And then, we assemble at the top of the hill, to take turns at going downhill.  I did hold the furthest freewheel for a few years, but I lost my title last year to Diane (from Menai) and this year I spectacularly failed again, as I had my feet the wrong way around.  It happens.




But at the end of the morning's trials, we all get to sit in the pub and enjoy lunch and mixed company. 

Ian John and myself tried to represent Chester, but we are up against some veterans (and in some cases 'super-vets'!).

You can read the reports and see more photos and winners on the main website:  Hill climb & Freewheel