Another monster-sized G3 saw some new faces plus some who are making that G2 to G3 jump as their fitness grows. Today John Mc's planned route would surely not deliver his customary 50? Staying local? But impressions are deceptive...
The group split into two, with John taking 11 off ahead and Adrian following but then opting for a slightly different route to the double-Box delights of the morning.
Newcomers James and Tony both proved that they are capable of a jump almost immediately to G4 - strong on the flats and the climbs but straight out of the blocks it was Neil who put the hammer down. Proving that big guys benefit from mega-thigh power, he took the front pushing the average over 17mph by the time we got to the foot of Punchbowl Lane.
From there, sweeping down Pixham and onto the Zig Zags everyone was aiming for quick ascents. James and Tony led the pack recording bang on nine minutes followed by everyone else within a minute or two. A swift breather, re-group, a check on times (kudos to Clive, Sally S, Kevin, Neil and David B who all put in good times) then off again. The route down saw the left turn at Headley then straight on to the Givens Road roundabout and the cycle lane before a left to Mickleham and back up again.
Mixed tactics for Box #2, some took it easier, some shaved a minute off their first ascent, Sally ever-consistent clocked the same again. By this time, the two Gs had mixed and matched for the Pebble Hill descent but after that there was a hint of Paris Roubaix in the air with some G5 type speeds from Betchworth to Newdigate for a welcome piece of cake.
Some were tempted by the direct route home... and duly shot off towards the aerodrome... others still had urges! The second group turned right from Tanhouse up to Rusper then followed the Ifield Wood, Charlwood, Lonesome Lane route back to clock up the McMullan 50.
Good weather, great climbing, nippy and fun. Thanks to everyone and sorry not to be able to name all of the great participants today but those who stepped up, you can now clearly stay and target the next jump!