West of Horsham

Michael writes:

Bob had allowed extra time for the ride to HPP, because of the strong headwind, so he was second , after Michael, to arrive at the start.  We were joined by Ken and Barbara.  Peter’s bikes were under repair, Anton was ill, Norman was crossing Asia, Val overslept and it was only 11 degrees.  The four of us set off north by way of Pondtail Road and climbed up towards Capel.  We discovered that the hedges did a good job at stopping the strong winds.  Once on the Rusper – Capel road we were being passed at frequent interval by speeding road bikes on some organised event.  They came up quietly and did not give one much elbow room as they sped by.  Having crossed the A24 we descended Weare Street observing the final flourish of this year’s bluebells.  

After Oakwood Hill Barbara left the group to go home via Rowhook.  We turned right for Ellen’s Green and then to Rudgwick.  Another cycle event had laid claim to the island in Cox Green with their tents and banners.  We carried on south past the Blue Ship and crossed the A29 to reach our lunch stop at the The Queens Head in Barns Green.  After lunch it was a short ride via Two Mile Ash Road back to Horsham.  We would have covered less than the advertised 35 miles but the cold windy weather was not very conducive to big distances.

Next weeks ride is the second of this years DA Events - the I-Spy, a bicycle treasure hunt. Pete has put a lot of work into creating an enjoyable competition, so come along and take part. The start and end point is outside the cafe at Southwater Country Park. Be there ready for a 9:30 start. There will a stop for lunch at some point. Come along and represent your club and have some fun finding the clues.