Well, there were nearly only four of us on the regular G2...
..... until Liz and Rachel decided that a small group might be interesting for a change from the G3 crowds.
Its seems most G2 regulars took note of the pessimistic weather forecast and stayed in bed, but Rob, Jane and second ride newcomer James signed the sheet for a ride down to the Manning Heath Hammerponds.
So off the usual way out through Salfords and Charlwood and down through Faygate, we headed for Tower Hill, yours truly relishing in being able to see the back marker for a change!
All the youngsters zoomed ahead up the hill leaving Rob and me to bring up the rear at a more sedately i.e. sensible pace. Heigh-ho!
Anyway, all together again at the top, the group veritably flew along the Blackhouse, Grouse and Hammerpond Roads to the outskirts of Horsham. Round the bypass and a short section of the A 264 and for a change we turned up Wimland Road to Rusper. At 28 miles into the ride a group sprint to Tanhouse was definitely called for, and this time the youngsters kindly let the ride leader win.
So, after a lovely gossip under the tasteful(!) pink lampshades in the new extension at Tanhouse, we headed for home via Henfold and Red Lane. Rob peeled off in Leigh and Jane in Woodhatch where the G3 ladies were finally let off the leash for the chase back to the 'Drome. Discretion being the better part of valour James was dispatched to chase them while the ride leader led from the rear again. James duly bridged the 100+ metre gap, caught and passed them just before home. Great stuff James, you'll go far!
Ride stats: 43 miles 14.6mph.
NB: for those who stayed in bed because of the forecast - it rained lightly once for about 5 minutes, the rest of the time the weather was perfect - some clouds, a lot of warm sum and next-to-no wind.
Rick