A hardy band of intrepid Honiton Spinners set off to the flatlands of Somerset on Sunday, with some trepidation about exactly what the weather would throw at them.
Robert set a pacy start as the stragglers chased after the advanced party, catching them at about 4 miles, though Robert was so keen that he missed the first photo stop.
Rain jackets promptly came off, but it wasn’t long before the drizzle arrived and, for the last four miles, there was a strong wind and heavy rain. John took heed of the weather warnings and planned a cut-off at Kingsbury Episcopi, neatly organising the downpour for his drive home.
The organiser, Iain Crabtree, created three interesting cycle routes: the 62 mile Tour, the 42 mile Classic, and the 22 mile Debutante, as well as marathon and half marathon run routes. Honiton Spinners chose The Classic this year and started at Isle Brewers. The route took them past pretty houses, in golden ham stone, and through quaint villages with wonderful names, such as Curry Mallett, Islemoor, Huish Episcopi and Muchelney , all reminiscent of past times.
There were some steep slopes down, some sharp bends, and plenty of loose gravel, potholes and puddles, plus a couple of little bumps to wake up the legs.
Winter bikes and gravel bikes were the popular choice, though Mike didn’t get the message and, unfortunately, suffered a puncture less than a mile from the end and in torrential rain. Well-supported by Kev and Robert, Mike made it back safely, as did Simon, who chose not to mend his puncture, but to pump up the tube and hope for the best. He also made it back safely, though he was aware of every bump in the rough final miles.
The drowned rats had chilly fingers and soggy shorts, but thoroughly enjoyed the hot coffee, tempting homemade cakes, sausages, burgers and jacket potatoes provided at the end.
It was good to see new member, Simon Coles, cycling with friends and to chat to the local cycle group from Langport.
Honiton Spinners would like to thank Iain and his team for the superb organisation, friendly marshals, super refreshments and hope that lots of money was raised for the cancer research and Yeovil Hospital. Iain always has a kind word for us and we enjoy joining in.
