Cyclists from Redhill CC, Angmering CC, Team Cake and those of no affiliation gathered at the YMCA Centre in Earslswood for a welcome hot drink before venturing into the cold. There was a variety of rides on offer: Dave Bibby to the RSPB reserve at Pulborough Brooks, Jacquie Phillips to the Granary, Wiston, Mike Ormerod to the Milk Churn, Rudgwick, and Alison Steele to Notcutts, Cranleigh.
Many of the riders were training for one of the YMCA Challenge events this summer - Paris in one or two days, Chase the Sun (209 miles from dawn to dusk) or Ride the Alps (5 cols and 400 miles in 5 days).
Eleven riders opted to join me; we set off at steady pace with the winds on a back. Despite a flat, we arrived at the Milk Churn in time to qualify for a 20% discount. Warmed up and refreshed with coffee and Sussex Charmers (of the cheese variety), we headed out into a blustery cold wind. The return route took us through Rowhook and Warnham followed by a long climb up to Rusper. Those of us who returned to the YMCA found Kim waiting for us ready to dispense tea or coffee.
Thanks to Graham Haysom who back-marked the ride.
Mike Ormerod