This event, a 2012 London Olympics legacy, has rapidly become the must-do event of the cycling calendar, says John Burgess who, with Julie Spohr, Marge Pearce, Jo Davey, Phil Palfrey and Nick Thorpe founds himself at the Olympic Park at an unearthly hour of the morning with over 20,000 other riders. The closed roads, the mainly flat course, the other riders whizzing along and the cheering crowds in towns and villages spurred us on to ride faster than we would normally expect over that distance. The main climb of Leith Hill was challenging but no problem for East Devon riders, apart from the effort needed to avoid cyclists grinding to a halt right in front of you. with fewer riders than last year, it appeared to be less congested and safer. In addition to the challenge of riding 100 miles, some Spinners, including Julie and Phil raised money for charity, one of which was Children with Cancer, supported by Phil. Nikki Gigg had the misery of having to decline a place two years running as a result of injury, but is not able, unfortunately, to defer her place a second time. Sue Jones was luckier and has a place for 2018. Well done Spinners for such an achievement!