midweek spin.

Club Ride Report – 42 Miles of Laughs, Legs & Latte Stops!

What a cracking day out for the club, with nine of us taking on an exhilarating 42-mile route that delivered everything you’d want from a proper ride – rolling roads that meandered through picturesque landscapes, great company that kept spirits high, and of course… an all-important cake stop that provided the much-needed energy boost!

A special mention goes to Chris Hinton, who officially emerged from his winter hibernation for his first club ride of the year. After months of being away from the saddle, he decided to skip the turbo miles and the sneaky solo training rides, opting instead for a full-on return to cycling with the group. His determination was palpable, and he smashed all 42 miles with impressive vigor, proving that he hasn’t lost any of his riding prowess over the winter months.

Our midway stop at the delightful Red Lion ice cream and cake shop in Haughton was undoubtedly a highlight of the ride – and for several members of the group, it was their first visit to this charming establishment. Safe to say, it won’t be the last time we make a pit stop here! The café boasted top-tier coffee that was rich and aromatic, paired with excellent cake selections that were simply irresistible. It provided just the right excuse to “rest the legs” (purely tactical, of course…) while indulging in a well-deserved treat after our hard work on the bikes.

The ride wasn’t without its moments of excitement and a dash of drama…

 • I briefly became the club’s navigation wildcard, convinced I’d taken a wrong turn at one point during the ride. In my moment of hesitation, I managed to stop rather abruptly, inadvertently causing a near-collision with the entire peloton behind me. It was a close call and showcased some impressive skills, even if slightly terrifying for everyone involved!

 • David Candlin, who had just recovered from a nasty cold, powered through the ride like a true trooper. His resilience was commendable, and it left us all wondering if he’s fully recovered or if cake truly is a miracle cure. The jury’s still out on that one, but his spirit was infectious, and he brought a smile to everyone’s face.

All in all, it was a fantastic route that challenged our legs and invigorated our spirits, a fabulous coffee stop that we’ll certainly revisit, and an absolutely lovely bunch of riders who made the day memorable – exactly what club cycling is all about. The camaraderie, laughter, and shared experiences on the road are what truly make these rides special.

So, how about we plan to do the same again next week? I can already hear the call of the open road and the promise of more laughs, legs, and latte stops waiting for us!