The 13th and 14th April saw the invasion of the Isle of Wight
by Matt, Foz and myself. It was a brilliant training weekend for our forthcoming big ride and saw the circumnavigation of this wonderful island on both days.
Saturdays weather forecast was for heavy
rain all day and it didn't disappoint!
Setting off travelling clockwise
around the island from Ryde, the rain
was persistent and a strong South Westerly wind of +20mph added to the joy.
Riding the 14 miles to Shanklin via Bembridge and Sandown, the question was asked whether to
carry on or cut short the ride. A brief discussion was held and it was decided
that we couldn't get any wetter and that we should press on and complete the
ride. Soggy but in good spirits we started the climb up Cowleaze Hill to Ventnor
and then onto Blackgang Chine. Then a weird thing happened, on the descent from
Blackgang onto the Military Road the downhill speed of 30mph speed seemed to go on for about 2 miles on the
level road. This was as a result of the very strong South Westerly wind giving us 'free miles'.
We then continued onto
Yarmouth, which is 40 miles into the ride and stopped at Gossips Cafe for some welcome sausage baguettes and
copious amounts of tea. Where we sat, a rather large puddle formed, which the
cafe staff cheerfully mopped up.
Suitably refreshed we set off through Porchfield
then to Cowes over the Chain ferry and then through Whippingham then back to
the start at Ryde.
The next day the weather forecast was looking good. Cloudy with the odd shower was predicted
but with still a strong South Westerly wind. The Sunday route was to be
anti-clockwise to add a bit of variation. However, due to the wind direction
and the thought of battling against the wind on the Military Road, the same
clockwise route was chosen. This time there were four brave riders. One of
Matt's friends, Simon who lives on the Island, volunteered to join the us.
Simon is a member of the Vectis RCC and is an experienced and extremely fit
cyclist and his good company was very much appreciated .
The weather was brilliant and none of the forecast rain
appeared. At Blackgang Chine view point an ice cream van served moral boosting
and tasty 99s.
A return visit to Gossips Cafe, but sitting outside in the
sunshine, then a repeat of the return journey via the chain ferry.
The statistics for both rides are:
Saturday : 61.90
miles, 4hrs 47mins 09secs, avg speed 12.93 mph
Sunday: 61.72 miles, 4hrs 46mins 24secs, avg speed 12.93 mph
Sunday: 61.72 miles, 4hrs 46mins 24secs, avg speed 12.93 mph
The Sunday ride was quicker by 45 seconds!
A great weekend was had by all....
