Seven Spinners turned up at the Topsham Rugby Club on Sunday 29th to ride in the Nello on behalf of the ‘Force’ cancer charity. Most people drove to the event but Chris rode from Honiton, just to warm up! Everyone chose the 60 mile option and a hot sunny ride was expected. Fortunately the clouds remained steadfast so while it was reasonably warm, the sun stayed hidden and the full heat of the day was avoided, in fact there was even a bit of cooling drizzle.
John and Angie nearly missed the whole thing due to last minute tyre issues, John resolved his but Angie had to revert to her substitute bike. After signing in and a welcome breakfast, Kevin, Angie, Chris and Robert set off first. John and Mike followed and Steve brought up the rear, setting off a while later.
There was a good turnout. The route took riders to the Countess Weir roundabout, then right and out of Exeter. Passing Poltimore, Killerton and Bickleigh, everything looked familiar, a normal Sunday social ride but instead of heading back, riders continued to Tiverton and the first feed station. Bananas were the order of the day, lots of them (including a banana woman mascot). From there the 60 mile route attacked the appropriately named long drag hill’ before heading onto the moors. There was a second feed station at Woman’s land cricket club where John and Mike joined the lead four, for the remainder of the ride.
Mike had family members cheering him on at various points around the ride and there was no shortage of people along the route cheering anyone on a bike. Heading onward to Crediton, there were many ups and downs with great scenery. Some riders added an extra challenge: Chris missed a turn and added a few miles and a big hill to his day. A mystery rider was seen carrying a dog in a basket on his handlebars and another in a rucksack. Another rider was circulating on a delivery bike with no gears. All very commendable and for a great cause.
From Crediton it was a straight run back to Topsham with just enough time to stop at Wendy’s feed station. Wendy is a fixture of the Nello having been on ‘duty’ looking after riders for many years. Fairly heavy traffic through Exeter and along the Topsham road where everyone receives a warm and enthusiastic welcome back. Arm bands were handed in, bikes stowed away and drinks and ice creams purchased, it was time to relax. Steve appeared having also successfully completed the ride. Time for home, all driving except Chris who still had a ride to Honiton to get to his 100 mile target for the day.