WVCC BOGBLOG

Llandegla Sat 21 Jan

2012-01-18T19:18:00.004Z

Despite the gale we had a brilliant ride round the red and black trails, including the new bits of singletrack heading back all the way to the trail centre. Luckily we set off just before the trails were closed due to the high winds and found it almost unridable on the exposed sections. However, back in the forest it was very sheltered and we even had a bit of sunshine.

Giles led us on the ups and tussled with Matthew for the lead on the descents. Richard C was going well and Kev U, on a roll fresh from his NW CycloCross Association league category win, battered it up all the climbs. Kev C was going well and getting much quicker on the descents with Eleanor and Geoff from the Birkenhead North End enjoying it too. Steve A ventured up here for the first time and loved it, applying his BMX skills to the jumps and berms. Lionel took his youngster round the blue trail which was pretty tough on such a windy morning.

The new sections were excellent with some flowing jumps and berms and a few surprises to keep us on our toes. Quite a few tough climbs too for extra interval training. Don't forget to get your entries in for Hit the North on 4 Feb.

Delamere Sat 7 Jan

2012-01-04T21:48:00.006Z

Despite rain on my window at 8.30am it turned into a sunny morning for an excellent ride round the singletrack of Delamere.
The smiles show how much we were enjoying it. Smashing to see some new faces joining Eleanor for some off road fun - Steve G, Rob (El's collegue) and Adrian, as well as Steve A coming back for more - proving that we didn't put him off for ever when he joined us on 29 Dec.
Like Steve G, Steve A showed his BMX background with excellent bike handling skills so that the narrow trails and tricky bridges were easily negotiated. If Steve A looks a little concerned in this picture it's not because of the difficult terrain, but that outdoor swimming pool behind him which was overhauled by his team last week!

Rob's riding style reminded us of Ross (praise indeed - he was the guy who used to be pictured in this blog header), with Adrian getting stuck in and loving it if the camera doesn't lie.

We're off to Llandegla next time, so watch this space.

Delamere Thurs 29 Dec

2011-12-26T23:29:00.003Z

This is a picture from the last Delamere ride early December. If you haven't been with us you might be surprised at the extent and quality of the singletrack in the forest. As usual, meet at the station cafe for 10am start. 2 hours or so before lunch back at the cafe and then another hour or so for any who fancy it in the afternoon.

Marin and Penmachno trails Sat 17 Dec

2011-12-14T17:31:00.004Z

Better weather in Wales than Northwich on Saturday morning. This was Steve Cox enjoying the brilliant Marin trail. Jonty wasn't too sure about the only slightly treacherous descents, so made up for it on the climbs.

We had a go at him for introducing Tim to the club; newcomers aren't meant to be this good! Strong on the climbs and quick on the technical descents, a real allrounder who's enjoying the track nights too. Good to see Alan on knobbly tyres again with his new Hinde mountain bike, and Derek made it six of us for the morning's ride.

After a change into dry clothes and a quick lunch in Betws, Alan, Tim and I headed over to Penmachno. It was even better than I remembered with some fast, flowing, very demanding singletrack. After a hailstorm, we got back just as it was getting dark and starting to freeze again. We made a quick getaway from the carpark as the hail turned to heavy snow covering the road.

These are both excellent trails which we'll have to return to next year; maybe have a weekend based in Betws y Coed.

Tatton Yule Yomp

2011-12-11T14:50:00.004Z

Nick, I hope you don't mind me taking over your blog this week?!

I think this must be a record - eight Weaver Valley cyclists (plus one son) representing WVCC in a 10k. In the picture are Julian and Elaine, Kev and me and our elder son David - unfortunately we couldn't find Nick and Ann, nor Jane and Rob when we took the photo.

The run was round Tatton Park -despite being mostly flat, the drizzle meant that conditions were very muddy and slippy underfoot, until the last 1k which was on tarmac. It's a lovely scenic course - at one stage we were watched rather warily by a huge herd of puzzled deer.

Our team did really well, with Kev this year (46.04) pipping an injured Nick (46.08) to the post, with them both coming in the top 60 in a field of 1000 (and 4th and 5th in the over 50 men). Julian did an excellent 50.41, Rob 53.11 and we girls all did well too.

Some interesting comparisons with cycling events: far more women as a percentage of the total - and a closed road for the last kilometre. The run was organised by Cheshire Hash House Harriers, of which Kevan and I are members of - now the commercial break - if anyone is interested in joining us on our runs on Tuesday nights, look up
http://www.cheshirehash.co.uk/cheshire/hashmain.htm - we run from a different Cheshire pub every Tuesday night at 7.45 and all standards from v. slow to v. fast are welcome, it's a 10k off road trail run (which takes well over an hour) involving looking for checks, and that means we can keep everyone together. In the winter we use torches, in the summer we get out to some spectacular places which you'll all know from your bikes, e.g. Rainow, Macc Forest etc. If you're interesting in coming along, let us know!

Delamere Forest Sat 3 Dec

2011-12-01T18:19:00.005Z

What a cracking day! Sunshine, singletrack and serious fun in the mud. 11 starters from the cafe
including Paul, proving that he can ride the trails just as well as the boards. He'll be coaching us at Thursday's track night too. This was a regrouping spot deep in the forest - as you can see it was smiles all round.

This is one of our trails over towards Crossley Hospital with Eleanor leading the two Kevs through this little bomb-hole. Further on there's a tricky bridge which Andy (the youngster) managed to ride quicker than I could catch him.

Tim was out with us for the first time and must have enjoyed it because he came back for more after lunch at the cafe. No mechanicals and only a couple of fallers, Rob who landed in a boggy bit and Kev U who remembered (too late) that V brakes aren't as good as discs after 2 hours in the mud! The right hander half way down Old Pale coming up quicker than expected. Hope your calf is ok Kev for the run next week and your continued cyclo crossing. A very enjoyable day in good company - hope to see you all on 17 Dec for the Marin and Penmachno trails.

Weekend away 12&13 Nov Altura Trail and some other tracks

2011-11-09T21:53:00.003Z

Glorious sunshine and unseasonal warmth helped make it a very memorable Lakes weekend. Eleanor (Kev cyclo crossing), Andy B, Derek, Matthew, Richard and I met at the Whinlatter forest visitors centre where we embarked on the Altura North loop. Within metres we had headed off on the wrong trail, Matthew broke his chain and Andy simultaneously his front mech. This was just the start of a very eventful day, with Andy breaking his seatpost (second time that I can remember), Andy falling and scraping his leg, Richard doing a graceful cartwheel over the handlebars and while Andy mended a puncture Eleanor managed a forward somersault resulting in a heavy nosebleed and a few other scrapes to knees and arms besides.

Fortunately none of this stopped us from continuing on to the South loop - which is where these pictures were taken climbing the switchback single track with Skiddaw in the background - which took us up to the high point before some tricky rock sections then brilliant flowing berms and jumps.

After lunch we rode the North loop again, while Richard went his own way exploring "off-piste". Dinner at the Ivy House and beers at the Royal Oak in Braithwaite rounded off an interesting day.

I did the duathlon on Sunday which was tough but enjoyable (report at http://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/3.html) while Richard led the rest around the back of Skiddaw to Skiddaw House and down to Keswick on the superb bridleway which traverses the east side of Lonscale Fell.

Club Cyclo Cross Sun 6 Nov

2011-11-06T19:17:00.008Z

A record field of 144 riders made it a cyclo cross to remember on a perfct autumn day, firm on the Greenbank playing field but much heavier and slippery in the woods.

Tom Armstrong - Herbalife/Wheelbase was close to the head of affairs from the gun with stiff competition early in the race from Giles Drake who ended up 3rd. Last year's winner Paul Bethell finished very strongly, to overhaul team mate Drake, but was still 12 seconds behind junior Armstrong at the line.

Matthew was first WVCC rider with a strong ride on his singlespeed, despite the rotating handlebars.

Kev Underhill was stronger towards the end, but didn't have the legs to catch Matthew. Something to do with 11 hours running in the Scottish Highlands last weekend I expect. Eleanor Underhill was 2nd Lady, only beaten by a junior.

James risk was first U16, even though he was on a borrowed bike and isn't a regular at cross! Well done James! There were strong rides from the U14s and a record 39 entries for the U12 event.
Thanks to all who turned out to help with the mammoth task of setting out the course, marshalling, judging, signing on and clearing away. Generous sponsorship from Fenwick's bike cleaner, The Bike Factory Chester, Dave Hinde Racing, Jack Gee Cycles and Halfords Northwich helped with the prizes.Thanks to John and Len the commissaires for making it all run smoothly.

Further reports, pictures and results at http://nwcca.org.uk/

Delamere Saturday 5 November

2011-11-02T22:04:00.002Z

Meet at the Station Cafe for 10am start as usual. A couple of hours or so on the plentiful singletrack trails around the forest before lunch back at the cafe.

Llandegla and over the hills Sat 15 Oct

2011-10-10T21:35:00.007+01:00

Thanks to Chris for the pictures. This was on our way from the top of the forest towards the Ponderosa.

The view from the top.

Then returning towards the cafe along a bridleway, Matthew and I doing our best to try and shake off Eleanor and Chris taking pictures on the move I guess.

And some video thanks to Matthew http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfWCD-W3Br0

Delamere Sat 1 Oct

2011-09-28T20:40:00.003+01:00

Come and enjoy the Indian summer in the forest on some of the brilliant singletrack trails. Conditions should be perfect now that the brambles are dying back and the mud will have dried up. This is one of our regulars, Kev C during Manchester's Hit the North Race back in February.

We are starting to get an easy riders group for younger/less experienced mountainbikers too, so all abilities welcome. Meet at the Station cafe for 10am start. Hire bikes available from

www.tracs-uk.co.uk

Saturday 17 September

2011-09-12T20:49:00.001+01:00

A volunteer required to lead this ride please. Leave a comment here if you can.

Delamere Sat 3 Sept

2011-08-27T13:32:00.003+01:00

Come and join us for fun in the mud! Loads of interesting and challenging singletrack around the forest for all sorts of abilities.

Meet at the station cafe for 10am start. We usually have a couple of hours or so, regrouping regularly, then lunch back at the cafe. A couple of hours more in the afternoon for those who fancy it. Hope to see some of the regulars out (cracked/broken frames permitting) after such a good turnout for the last ride in the Clwyds.

Clwyd Hills Gareth's Stag ride - Sat 30 July

2011-07-24T23:47:00.006+01:00

A bit warm for a gorilla suit so we made Gareth some antlers which he sported for the ride. 12 was the best turnout for a couple of years.
This was part way round at the Clwyd Gate following the climb up from a fast gravel descent. Brother-in-law to be Lee joined us and kept up no problem. Jack enjoyed the downhills too - not sure about all the climbs though. Dennis was climbing like the proverbial mountain goat, with Kev and El fired up from their Alpine Etape foray.

Along some easy tracks to the flanks of Moel Fammau and the sapping climb.

Worth it though, for the fantastically fast grassy descent where Richard did his Valentino Rossi impression as he rattled past. Good job we had sandwiches as the pub didn't. So Steve and Rob popped to the other one which did. Over to Cilcain and then up to the col for the grassy descent past the reservoir. Thanks for being a good sport Gareth, and all the best for your big day.

Delamere and Harthill 4x 16 July

2011-07-24T23:15:00.003+01:00

After a fast blast around the forest with Andy B (now fully fit), Matt & Ed Hornby, Kev C and Jonti, it was off to Harthill for Derek and me to see the Schwalbe National 4x series. We rode through Primrose wood then down Tirley Garth, passed Beeston on the road and then through the Peckforton Gap to Burwardsley and up to the coarse at Harthill. Very good it is too if you are a 4x racer - which we aren't, so we stopped and watched for a while as we sampled the tea and cakes. Exciting racing with loads of crashes.

Thanks to BC for the picture and read all about it at http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/ and the national champs the following day.

Polaris Challenge

2011-06-29T10:08:00.002+01:00

Weaver Valley had two teams in this annual competition, this year based in the Peak District with over 100 teams and solo riders from all over the UK. Richard Clader, new to this event - which is mountainbike orienteering on tracks and bridleways, teamed up with me to acheive a respectable score as the first male supper vet team. But Kevan and Eleanor, who were just 5 points ahead of us at the end of the first 7 hour day, pulled it out of the bag with their superior route planning the second day. Not only beating Richard and I by 15 points, but winning the mixed team category for ALL age groups. A fantastic result, well done Kev and El!

I haven't had any results or pictures or links sent through yet, so if anyone finds them, please put it here in the comments.

Keswick Mountain Festival - Lakes Epic

2011-05-25T17:13:00.002+01:00

http://www.youtube.com/v/ZxsjKYQFi24&hl=en_GB&feature=player_embedded&version=3
It appears that May is the month for riding in the lakes, with Derek and Gareth completing the Fred Whitton earlier in the month, and Kevan, Elenor and me, (Matt) riding Keswick Mountain Festival events this last weekend. All the road riders did well, completing the rides in respectable times in wild weather, but this is the Bog Blog afterall so you'll probably want to hear more about the Lakes Epic moutain bike ride. The weekend started with a very pleasant stay in the Derwent Water YHA, just a couple of miles from the start in Crow Park, Keswick. I had a 22 berth room all to myself with views over the lake, very nice. That evening was also the night for the day one route and safety briefing, at which the fear of god was put into us with the description of the Sticks Pass traverse, at least an hour of portage to get to the top!

Too late to worry about that by 9.00 am next morning, and after catching up with the Underhills at the start it was ready for the tear up through the town center to the first climb of the day up to Lonscale Fell, and the realisation that yes, there were some proper racers here who were clearly wanting to win. 10 miles in, we reached that Sticks Pass slog and already they were out of sight. In the end it only took the second group of five, which I was in 45 mins to reach the cairn marking the summit and we all started to decend together until I was tipped over the bars on some rocks and bent my derailleur hanger on landing. Damn, 15 minute delay while I sorted it out, and that group was also out of site. With the next pair about 10 minutes still behind it was a pretty lonely slog the rest of the day around the shores of Ullswater, and up and over Boredale and Martindale, (more hike-a-bike) to the campsite near Pooley Bridge. Total distance, 38 miles in 5hrs 8 mins. Then to another of the exciting feature of the event, camping overnight in badly pitched large hike tents and gale force winds. It has to be said, my tent survived pretty well, at least five of the other tents were largely destroyed by the weather.

Next day, and the news from the route was that localised flooding meant that the route was to be shortened, and would miss out the back of Skiddaw loop. The weather was still pretty shonky, and we were headed back into the headwind today so this news wasn't greeted with too much complaint from the racers. The flag dropped, and yesterdays fast lads disappeared into the distance again, allowing me and a pair from yesterday's early group to get the first road miles done in as short a time as possible. My time was in the end a little shorter than theirs, and I'd lost them before the real off-roading started, descending, (but still having pedal into the wind and by now hailstones) the Old Coach Road. The curtailed route then largely followed the early part of day 1 route back round Lonscale fell before arriving into Keswick via the Sustrans railway path. Distance of 27 miles and 3 hours dead. This meant I was the leading solo rider, flying the flag for the WVCC and won....... one of the collapsible tents from the previous night! All in all a great event, and well worth the trip next year.
-- Matthew Hornby

Delamere 28 May

2011-05-23T22:24:00.002+01:00

Now that Andy "big air" B is back on two wheels I though we should have a ride around the Delamere trails. Conditions are perfect with the recent rain to dampen down the dust. Hope you ARE fully recovered now Andy and can join us at 10am Station cafe as usual. All abilities welcome.

Borderlands MTB Challenge Sat 7 May

2011-05-05T17:37:00.003+01:00

Saturday 7 May saw us heading for Rhiwlas on the edge of the Ceriog Valley near Oswestry for the annual Borderlands Challenge. This was KevC trying to thumb a lift. See http://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/committee.asp?ClubCtteeID=7178&ClubID=1699 and if you go to the gallery you'll find pictures of us. This really is a very good event in aid of the North Wales air ambulance.

The Carnedds "ride" Sat 30 April

2011-05-02T18:46:00.001+01:00

Richard had a great idea about heading over some of Snowdonia's 3000' mountains and the two Kev's and I were game enough (perhaps daft enough) to accompany him.

We took the Roman Road which was ridable all the way up Drum before pushing up Foel Fras, the most northeasterly of the Welsh 3000 footers.

From here we headed along fairly flat terrain to Carnedd Uchaf under clear blue skies, but a strengthening SE wind. Heading south from the summit I shot a little video before the camera batteries expired. We continued over Foel Grach then onwards to Carnedd Llewelyn, but turned back about half a km before the summit as the terrain got completely unridable and the wind was continuing to strengthen. We found a route back to the north and west dropping into the village of Aber. Sorry the videos weren't better, but at least they give some idea of the spectacular scenery. Thanks Richard!

Mary Townley Loop & Borderlands Challenge

2011-04-29T21:40:00.004+01:00

Les and I joined Pete Riley and 3 more fiends at short notice to ride the Mary Townley Loop on Good Friday. It was a perfect day for this challenging 47 mile ride, mainly on old pack horse tracks around the Lancashire /Yorkshire border.

Last time I did it was with Kev & El and Rob Jones, it rained all day. We must do it again, late summer / early Autumn. Anyone interested let us know here and we plan a date.

Long Mynd weekend 9&10 April

2011-04-05T22:21:00.004+01:00

We couldn't have wished for a better weekand, just a better turnout! Kev C and I had a brilliant time on Saturday riding over the Long Mynd 5 times in total. Each descent from the broad grassy ridge was better than the last, this was the third one down towards Bridges where we planned for lunch, but the pub has closed down, so it was along the road to the Inn on the Green at Wentnor which did us proud. We found the flowing grassy track at the northern end of the Mynd which Gareth had tried to show us last time - it was superb. And finally, after a gruelling climb of Carding Mill Valley, we rode back along the ridge to the gliding club and the famous Minton Batch which was even better than I remembered.

No one showed up on Sunday so I rode over to East Ridge in the sunshine. There are some good singletrack trails, only trouble is that it's a bit like Delamere in that you have to know where they are as there isn't much in the way of signage.

So I headed for the Stiperstones (which look like this - in August at least) and then back over the Long Mynd, trying the Minton descent (parallel with Minton Batch) which was a fantastically fast, grassy ridge ending up within a mile or so of the campsite. Will definately have to plan another trip here.

Delamere 2 April

2011-03-31T22:19:00.003+01:00

Thanks to Alan for this plot of a ride we did last September - he finished off up the Yeld which we don't usually tackle! But as you can see we are never far from the cafe, so there's no excuse not to come and join us for as long as you want, then head back when you've had enough. Hire bikes available from Tracs near the visitors centre.

Meet at the Station cafe for a 10am start as usual. There are plenty more tracks the other side of the switchback road and Primrose Wood, so we'll probably do a couple of hours or so, then lunch back at the cafe. Another hour or two in the afternoon for any who fancy it.

Grizedale Duathlon 13 March

2011-03-16T21:02:00.003Z

Another well run event in the beautiful Lake District on a pleasant spring day. Kev Campbell and I completed the course along with my friends from Newcastle, Tim and Sharon who competed as a relay team. No prizes this time, just the satisfaction of covering 37km with 1500m of ascent and descent on foot and on the bike. Kev and El had entered but couldn't make it, which was a shame as I'm sure they would have really enjoyed it.

For a full report go to http://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/resources/Grizedale+Duathlon+Report+2011.pdf

Delamere Sat 5 March

2011-03-02T21:24:00.002Z

Come and join us for a couple of hours around the forest. Plenty of interesting singletrack and hopefully not too muddy if the dry spell continues. All abilities welcome, we regroup frequently and usually get back to the cafe for lunchtime. Those who want to, do a bit more in the afternoon. Give me a call if you want more details 01606 76171 07733 121505

We set off from the station cafe at 10am. That's James above, riding in the forest a couple of years ago. It must have been good preparation as he was going really well on the Llanberis ride last weekend.

Llandegla Sat 19 Feb

2011-02-17T21:13:00.003Z

After enjoying a circuit of the black trail, on our final run back into the centre Chas had a very bad fall. He was taken to Wrexham Hospital where he's being treated for back injuries. The three of us who were also out on the ride, Andy B, Kev C and I wish him all the best.

Hit the North 12 Feb 2011

2011-02-13T20:36:00.008Z

Another fantasticly well organised event by the HtN team near Whitefield north Manchester went off in sunshine with 5 WVCC riders - if you look carefully you can see us all lined up for the start above. Thanks to John Climber for all the pics (I'll be donating to mountain rescue as requested - probably when up in the Lakes next for the Grizedale Duathlon in 4 weeks which some of us have entered). The race was won by Ian Taylor (3rd in the 3 Peaks! - that'll be behind Nick Craig and Rob Jebb then) with first vet Dave Haygarth (regular in our cyclo cross event) 2nd overall.

Matthew was first club rider with a very credible 33rd overall - clearly enjoying the mud! And that is mud on his helmet from a face-plant during the race.

First lady vet was our own Eleanor Underhill who was also enjoying the race judging by this picture and picked up a decent prize for her efforts - well done El our only prize winner.

Kev Underhill riding despite his bad back finished 50th which was good going out of 200 starters

Kev Campbell was 84th, just 3 places behing Matthew's brother Ed and ahead of El
And this was me gritting my teeth as Matthew disappeared into the distance - that wasn't my plan! But then I'm another year older and he's another year more experienced - 42nd overall wasn't too bad. A great event again - thanks to the guys and ladies who organised and marshalled - I'm sure we'll be back for the next one.

Delamere 5 Feb

2011-02-03T22:41:00.004Z

For Chas's first club off road ride we organised rain, wind, mud and extra slippery tree roots in abundance. Matthew, Kev & El, Andy B, Richard C and I did all we could to break him and his enthusiasm. Despite all of this, and his slighly retro bike (with not particularly knobbly tyres), he lasted the course and is rumoured to have enjoyed it!

It wasn't the best weather on Saturday, but more fun riding in the forest than out on the roads I expect. We headed over Old Pale and on to Primrose Wood where it wasn't quite as muddy. Chas used his trials motorcycle skills to help negotiate the slippy conditions and I only saw him fall once (4.5 for artistic impression, but 5.9 for technical merit!) on a day that we all lost control at some point. Andy (having accepted taking the lead on our return down the Old Pale zig-zag path) saved his fall for a spectacular 180 degree broadside wipeout - the things you see when you don't have your helmet camera on. But as Kev will confirm, the ground in the forest is much softer than the road, so falling off isn't usually painful and the terrain lends itself to high intensity interval training. So we all had a great workout to justify filling ourselves at the excellent club dinner later that evening.

We're off to Hit the North mtb race in Manchester next week and anyone who wants to enter might just get in http://www.hitthenorth.net/, but there are no entries on the day. Hope we didn't put you off for good Chas and will see you out again soon in better conditions.

Weaver Valley Cycling Club Dinner and Prize Presentation Evening

2011-01-17T21:08:00.005Z

Saturday 5th February 2011 7.00pm for 7.30pm

Winnington Recreation Club

Guest Speaker Sarah Storey - British Cycling Paralympic Champion (pictured above with her medal haul from Athens and with Vicky Pendleton!)

Ticket £16.50 Under 16s £10 Raffle prizes on the night please!

Please contact Dave McKay davemckay73@yahoo.co.uk 01606 301501 or Graham Gregory graham.p.Gregory@btinternet.com 01606 891400 with your menu choices

Cheques payable to Weaver Valley CC.

~STARTER

Vegetable soup served with warm bread roll

Brussels pate served with toast

Breaded camembert with cranberries

~MAIN

Pork steak and mushrooms in cream and brandy sauce

Poached salmon with white wine and dill sauce

Chicken breast fillet wrapped in bacon

Pasta with mushrooms and cream sauce

~DESERT

Apple pie served with cream

Lemon Cheesecake

Hot chocolate fudge cake

~Tea or Coffee

Cannock Chase 15 Jan

2011-01-08T21:01:00.004Z

By popular request and Matthew & Les's recommendation, we returned to Chase trails where we really enjoyed Follow the Dog a year ago. Now they've extended this with more flowing red to form the Monkey Trail. Billed as the best trail in the country (it is England, so excluding Scotland and Wales I guess) we thought it was excellent.

11 of us tackled the slightly muddy 14 mile trail with loads of climbing and some very flowing descents See the video of the best bit at http://www.youtube.com/user/NickBXride

Mark and Simon joined us from Warwickshire in training for their skiing trip. Jack C was looking trim and keen, the 2 Kevs game as ever, Andy B up near the front these days, Derek and Matthew usually at the head of affairs (hopefully he got some helmet cam action too) Steve getting to grips with the slippery conditions and Gareth only slightly upset about getting his bike filthy. After lunch at the cafe Matthew, derek and I blasted round most of it again, and like all trails, the more you ride it the better it gets! We'll be back again soon, perhaps for a summer evening ride?

Wed 29 Dec Peak District

2010-12-27T17:42:00.004Z

The milder conditions gave six of us (Kev & El, Matthew, Andy B, Steve M and me) the opportunity to enjoy some of the excellent tracks and byways from Hayfield and over the Dark Peak on Wednesday. The predicted fog lingered in the valleys, so we soon climbed out of it, resulting in some spectacular views. There was still some snow on the flanks of the higher hills, but most of it had melted at lower levels. However, where there had been compacted snow and slush, this remained as ice, demanding concentration and some grassy detours to avoid it.

Even some motorcycle trail riders couldn't make it over the ice past the Roych, and some even struggled with the rocky steps up Rushup Edge. We headed over the edge of Mam Tor after Andy had done a spectacular cartwheel dismount - 6.0 for artistic impression. A fast descent to Edale where the pub did us proud.

From Edale it was a long push up Jacob's Ladder (the clue is in the name) before the long fast descent back into Hayfield. Anyone who thought conditions would be difficult was right! But we all enjoyed it, although I think we all wore out at least one set of brake pads due to the mud. These were Kev's !!!!! Ouch.

Llandegla Sat 18 December CANCELLED DUE TO SNOW

2010-12-15T21:17:00.006Z

Due to me having flu, Matthew led the ride from Dealmere Station cafe. Thanks to him for this report and the videos -

This first vid is of Mike, (Kev and Elenor's daughter's boyfriend) cracking what's known as the 'road gap'. It's about 6 foot drop from take off to landing, and I reckon 20 feet forward travel. There's NO WAY anyone else who rides out with us would try this, and it was snowy, making getting enough take off speed a tricky proposition.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fw3l-z90RKM&feature=player_embedded

Second one is a bit of a mickey take, but I'm sure Derek will be along shortly to tell how particularly skilled I was yesterday
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvGt6Jmi-aw&feature=player_embedded

He did manage to get these tyres to stick to everything else as well yesterday and monstered every climb whilst everyone else pushed in his wake. Like the look of this? come and join us in the forest some time. If you haven't got an MTB, or can't borrow one, the hire bikes are pretty decent stuff and not expensive for 1/2 a day.

Delamere Sat 4 December

2010-12-02T21:48:00.003Z

Meet at the Station cafe for 10am start. All abilities welcome for 2 hours or so round the tracks and trails then lunch back at the cafe. More after lunch for those who want it.

Some fantastic singletrack in Delamere and we are always finding new bits. Riding here will improve your skill and ability to handle technical sections when you are riding more demanding trails. Keeping in the forest means that it is rarely windy or cold compared with riding on the exposed roads, even in the snow and we are never far from the cafe. Trail riding is fantastic for building base fitness and core muscles with the added bonus of being great fun.

Dales Weekend 27& 28 Nov 2010

2010-11-28T21:18:00.007Z

Despite, or perhaps because of the snow, it was a brilliant weekend based at Dent in the Yorshire Dales. The bunkhouse at Whernside Manor did us proud although some of us didn't get their cars along the snowcovered lane to it. Eight of us stayed over Saturday night with Matthew and Derek (the gate boys, pictured below at Dent station with Kev) joining us for Saturday's ride Thanks to Richard and Kev for devising some interesting and ridable circular routes. Saturday's took us up the long steep road climb past Dent Station, then on tracks traversing Brant Side with spectacular views ahead to Ingleborough - Lew (the gaffer) and Ian below

Down to Ribblehead where we had lunch at the Station Inn before heading back over the shoulder of Whernside on the Great Wold track - a long push up but the descent down to Whernside Manor made up for it.

A very reasonable bar meal and some rehydration therapy that evening in The Sun Inn, Dent set us up for another superb ride on Sunday. The forecast snow didn't arrive, so we drove to Ribblehead with Rob and Steve who joined us for the day. We set off traversing the lower slopes of Whernide on the bridleway through Ivescar and Bruntscar leading on to Scales Moor where we got this terrific view of Ingleborough.

From here the trail got a bit trickier and technical, leading to a superb descent http://www.youtube.com/user/NickBXride before a short road stretch to lunch at Inglesport - quick, cheap and tasty.

A few miles on the road gave us stunning views to the Lakes before reaching Clapham and a long pull up to Thwaite Lane past the Norber eratics (ask Richard) over the SE flank of Ingleborough where we had this view across to Pen y Ghent. Ian enjoying the benefit of the low gears on his new mountainbike, before the fast descent to Selside and a few miles back on the road to Ribblehead. Thanks to everyone for making it such an enjoyable weekend. We couldn't have asked for better conditions and views. See you all at Delamere on Sat 4 Dec.

Whinlatter Duathlon Sun 14 Nov

2010-11-17T19:18:00.003Z

This is a picture from last year's event showing the spectacular Altura trail with Bassenthwaite Lake in the background. Although this year was a little overcast, the rain held off and Kev Campbell and I enjoyed this gruelling test of trail running and technical mountainbiking. The Altura trail makes up most of the 15km biking route, sandwiched in between two 5.5km runs. Total altitude climbed was 4000ft, so there wasn't much, in fact probably no, flat.

It was very well organised and you can find out more about it and other similar events at http://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/3.html I quite fancy the Grizedale duathlon next March. Being an average cyclist and runner, with a fair bit of off-road technique in both, stood me in good stead so I picked up first V50 prize, with Kev 5th and my friend Tim from Newcastle picking up 2nd spot. Not bad for our first attempt at this type of event. There are some cracking photos on the website links, particularly this one of Kev who has obviously been in serious training........perfecting his all important "raceface"http://www.sportsunday.co.uk/photo7605076.html Clearly some more training to do though Kev to get up to Tim's standard http://www.sportsunday.co.uk/photo7577442.html

Only a few places left for the offroad weekend in Dent 27&28 Nov. So let me know if you want to come along. We may even be able to offer you a lift.

Delamere Sat 6 November

2010-11-03T20:56:00.004Z

11 off roaders and about the same number of roadies enjoyed a beautiful morning - checkout the videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/NickBXride

Cylo Cross SUNDAY 24 October 2010

2010-10-19T22:19:00.003+01:00

A glorious autumn day with 30 helpers as well as 4 riders (helpers too pictured above) from Weaver Valley. Matthew was first club rider home and Jack Fearon was 2nd junior overall. Full results at http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/results?discipline=4 very soon.

Many thanks to the nice people at http://www.sportsunday.co.uk/portfolio128518p20.html for supplying this picture and taking hundreds more which you can see on their site. Also to our generous sponsors - Bike Factory, Dave Hinde Racing, Fenwick's Bike Cleaner, Fibrax and Jack Gee Cycles.

The Youths and under 12 events went off well, the main event attracting a record 124 riders! Unfortunately a lady competitor suffered an injury which meant a trip to hospital. We wish her a speedy recovery.

Many, many thanks again to for the help of all those who set out the course, cleared it away, signed riders on, judged and marshalled etc. etc. and Len who was a great Commisaire with his laptop for working out the results too and his assistant John.

Macc Forest and beyond after the Hillclimb 17 Oct

2010-10-12T18:51:00.003+01:00

See the video at

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oC9KtCGTPSg
Come and join us for a ride from the club Hillclimb http://cyclingtimetrials.org.uk/ HQ in Macclesfield after the event. We can head out on the canal towpath to Macclesfield Forest and then on to the 3 Shires bridge or any of the other tracks and bridleways. A steady pace but some challenging terrain. 3 hours or so depending on weather.

Cylo Cross SUNDAY 24 October 2010

2010-09-30T18:33:00.003+01:00

Greenbank Wood, Northwich, CW8 1JS

Youth (12-15) - 11.30am - £5
Under 12 - 12.15pm - Free
Everyone else - 12.45pm - £10 ( under 18 £8 )
Come and have a go - entry on the day for all categories
All ages and abilities welcome – lots of category prizes with kind donations from www.davehinde.com , http://www.thebikefactory.co.uk/, http://www.fibrax.com/ , http://www.fenwicks.info/
Leave a comment here or get in touch for more details or just turn up and ride!
Run under British Cycling Federation regulations

Helpers required please; it's a big job setting out the course and clearing away afterwards.

Delamere 2 October

2010-09-29T22:37:00.003+01:00

The leaves are falling and there is a nip in the air. Time to dust off the mountain bike and rediscover the sheltered trails on our doorstep in Delamere Forest. If you haven't joined us yet, come along and have a go. All abilities welcome, we regroup regularly and wait at any junctions.

Meet at the sation cafe for 10am start.

Here's a short video of what we got up to riding through one of the "bombholes"

Delamere 4 Sept

2010-09-01T21:55:00.003+01:00

A large turnout of 14 for the singletrack and a couple for the firetracks is a record for the off road section I believe.

Giles and Les Charley making a welcome return to the fat tyres and a few of my friends and my brother added to the numbers. They all enjoyed it and reminded me how lucky we are to have such an amenity on our doorstep. First time out with us for Mike from Barnton who did well, although I suspect the cafe was a welcome sight after 2 hours!

Many thanks to Alan Cook of Birkenhead North End for this photo (the top of Pale Heights) and the plot of our route (less the last few kms where he left us to ride up the Yeld). He is in serious training for the 3 Peaks Cyclo Cross in a few weeks time - good luck Alan - you need it for an event like that.

Sorry to Sara who we managed to lose in the first half mile - I'm still not quite sure how. We did get split up but the mobile came to the rescue to get the rest of us back together.

No video footage from my new headcam as it turned out the memory was full (I wondered what a flashing red light meant) - I'll try to get it set up for next time. Talking of which, I need a volunteer please to take the next ride on Sat 18 Sept.

Thanks everyone who turned out and negotiated the technical difficulties, some of which were probably a little unexpected - like the 1 metre rocky drop-off!

Gisburn Forest 21 August

2010-08-18T22:44:00.006+01:00

Saturday turned out to be a fantastic day for riding the purpose built red and black graded trails at Gisburn Forest. It's a shame no-one else made it, but there were plenty of other groups riding the trails to keep me company. There are some fairly technical rocky sections and lots of very twisty bits through the forest, which is very dark in places. Once you have reached the summit though, it gets much better with plenty of flowing berms including those in the picture (top) which must be the biggest berms in the country - a bit like a half-pipe. Definitely worth another visit soon, see http://www.forestry.gov./website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey /EnglandLancashireNoForestGisburnCoc kletHillCarPark

Having completed one circuit of the forest trail in about 1hr 30mins I headed through Slaidburn and picked up part of the "Killer Loop" around Dunsop Bridge in the Trough of Bowland - see http://explore.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/os_routes/show/9918 I pushed and rode up the bridleway to Dunsop Fell gaining lovely views back to the forest and Ingleborough beyond. Over the top and then a steep and interesting descent to Whitendale from where a road takes a short cut down to Dunsop Bridge. The Post Office cafe provided the best poached eggs on toast this year. This is not an area I know too well, but there is some great off road riding to be done.

John's Charity Ride

2010-08-13T17:20:00.002+01:00

You may or may not know that in November, New Member John Bradley (often refered to as John from Sandiway by the Off Road contingent) is taking part in a gruelling 420km sponsored cycle ride across dusty terrain of game reserves and nature reserves in Tanzania for charity Transaid . John is hoping to raise at least £3,000 for their vital work across Africa .

Need to raise 50% before 23rd August "So no time to lose".

Transaid is an international UK development charity that aims to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods across Africa and the developing world through creating better transport. The organisation was founded by Save the Children and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and our Patron is HRH The Princess Royal.

In sub-Saharan Africa, Road deaths are the third biggest premature killer following HIV/AIDS and malaria.

John Says “It’s going to be a real challenge. It’s easy to take it for granted that cars, buses and trains get us where we need to go, but people in Africa aren’t so lucky and I wanted to do something to help,”

This nine-day expedition (5day Ride) – under the unforgiving African sun – will help Transaid facilitate access to healthcare, education and work for thousands, by providing them with safer, cheaper and more efficient transport.

John Says "I’m sure I have got my work cut out as Cycling across Tanzania, it isn't any old Sunday afternoon bike ride !! Hopefully I will see the real Africa – and achieve something good for the world through our joint efforts & with your support."

To help make this simple we have a few options for donations. John has set up a JustGiving website which you can find at:

http://www.justgiving.com/John-Bradley

Delamere 7 August

2010-08-02T09:50:00.005+01:00

Here is Kev U showing such speed that he's just a blur (must get a decent digital camera) on one of the many sections of singletrack we covered. John showed us a couple more "new" sections which I have committed to memory. A very enjoyable ride despite the heavy rain halfway round and the mud which was fairly deep in places.

7 out in total - Kev & El fit from their alpine trip, Kev C so confident on the singletrack that he doesn't even fall off these days, Andy B fit from all his road riding and has found a way round the hosepipe ban for cleaning your bike - babywipes (don't let the wife know though), Gareth who we thought we had lost to the road - and probably have now that he got his lovely white Trek really muddy, new member John from Sandiway and me who probably had the best crash - ricocheting off a fence into the side of John who I thought I could pass, but didn't.

Hope to see some of you for the Gisburn Forest ride Sat 21 August - it'll be a good warm-up for the TLI race on Sunday.

Ride the Clwyds Sat 24 July

2010-07-21T22:20:00.005+01:00

This was Gareth last summer on one of the many bridleways around the Clwydian range. There is loads of good singletrack too with some brilliant descents - see http://www.ridetheclwyds.com/rideclwyds/index.asp. Meet at Loggerheads Country Park ( a few miles out of Mold over the Rainbow climb on the A494 Ruthin road - 197626) at 10am for a full day with a stop for lunch somewhere on the route.

Hit the North 2 - Sat 17 July

2010-07-19T18:15:00.005+01:00

A great time was had by all - Matthew riding in a pair with brother Ed as the Prestwich Dynamos. Derek, Kev C and me making up the Weaver Valley CC team. 8 hours round a 6.5 mile course near Whitefield ; all sorts of terrain including some nice new bermed singletrack. One rider from each team out on the course at a time while the others ate, drank and cleaned the mud off their drivechains.

Matthew acheived the quickest laps among us, Kev got lost on his first lap and Derek broke his chain on his second lap! Apart from that, fairly incident free. The organisation, timing system, marshalling, beer tent and food afterwards were good, the DJ, hmm not so sure about. But those of us who stayed made the most of it.

See http://www.hitthenorth.net/ for results and soon some pictures and video. Well done to the Hit the North team for another very enjoyable event. Picture shows Kev picking up WVCC team prize for 2nd place in the 3 man team category. Stockport Clarion won this.

Delamere 3 July

2010-06-29T23:22:00.005+01:00

The forest isn't all firetracks, there are miles of great singletrack to enjoy. I'm not around and there is no "leader" as such, but John from Sandiway, who has joined us on a few recent rides and joined up, should be around to make a few suggestions as he knows the forest really well. Meet at the Station cafe for 10am start as usual. Leave a comment here if you can make it as this will encourage others too.

4 up 25 on 24 June

2010-06-24T22:14:00.001+01:00

Llandegla BBQ Wednesdays

2010-06-23T18:27:00.003+01:00

The evening BBQ's have started again. Anyone fancy a trip up there after work as a change from the tens? I haven't been to Llandegla for around 7 months, so am getting withdrawal symptoms. More info - including bike hire - from http://www.coedllandegla.com/

Delamere 5 June

2010-06-03T17:26:00.002+01:00

This was us all in the Clwyd Hills last summer. Come along and see what Delamere has to offer; you might be suprised at the variety of singletrack trails. All abilities welcome on these Delamere rides; we always regroup at junctions and have only lost one rider so far! But he was trying to find his own way back to the cafe.

Meet at the station cafe but be ready to leave at 10am prompt. We usually head back to the cafe for lunch around 12.30pm or so, those that want to can do another hour or two afterwards.

Mid week MTB races in Manchester

2010-05-24T20:00:00.001+01:00

See here for more infohttp://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/Bridge/calendar_future.asp?evt_cp=2&evt_mode=1&evt_id=%7BDAC55ACB-DD92-42BA-ADD3-B50948E55DB6%7D&evt_seriesid=&evt_myevents=No&RefID=&RefType=&evt_month=All&evt_kw=&evt_regions=All+Regions&evt_disc=Mountain+Biking&evt_class=&evt_cat=&evt_series=&evt_resultspp=20
2 events per month through June, July and August

Borderlands MTB Challenge Sat 8 May

2010-05-02T22:20:00.004+01:00

Weaver Valley CC contingent of Kev and El, Dennis H and Pete W and I all enjoyed this event again. Weather wasn't good, a cold NE wind and grey skies, but it stayed more or less dry and the mud wasn't as bad as some years. 22 miles of typical Welsh tracks marked out and marshalled around the beautiful Ceriog Valley from the village of Rhiwlas. Organised by the Rotary Club,proceeds/sponsorship goes to local charities / air ambulance. It is a lovely, if hilly, route and we certainly felt that we had earned the sandwiches, cakes and tea afterwards.

See http://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/page.asp?PgID=116620&ClubID=1699 for some pictures of 2009 and http://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/committee.asp?ClubCtteeID=7178&ClubID=1699 for details.

Delamere Saturday 1 May

2010-04-25T19:14:00.004+01:00

Only 5 set out at 10am, Kev C turning up a little late missed us. Matthew managed the bridge and the ladder. Andy B showed of his improved fitness levels and Mike D his new Giant mega travel full suspension bike. Steve from Didsbury joined us for the first time and found the uphills tough going on his jumping bike but seemed to enjoy the trails we showed him and especially the 4 cross course which is being improved. Steve M turned up at lunchtime to join in the afternoon session. Will post more details about the Borderlands ride soon.

Llangollen and the Berwyns 17 April

2010-04-12T22:20:00.007+01:00

Six of us enjoyed the finest day so far this year following the routes from Llangollen recommended by Kev C's friend Pete, who was unfortunately not well enough to join us. Kev C, Chris Gregory, Rob Jones, Steve Cox from the Crewe, Eleanor and I made up the party. This is Rob enjoying one of the green lane descents. Of course the only way to gain the height for this was up steep climbs, but even these were pleasant on such a fantastic day with the daffodils out.

Kev C and Rob chatting as they climbed out of the valley for the third time. We were slightly envious of a gang of downhill riders who were getting a lift back up the hill in a pick-up truck. But we agreed that we felt much more virtuous. Especially Eleanor, who ended up on the front of the group as we crested the final climb, where a farmer had pulled up his tractor to compliment her on leading five blokes!

Delamere 3 April

2010-03-30T17:32:00.004+01:00

Despite the earlier start time of 9.30am and many of the regulars being away or otherwise engaged over the bank holiday weekend, nine of us had a bright sunny morning around the trails of Primrose Wood. Good to see John from Sandiway out for the first time - I don't think we scared him off yet! The Easter bunnies had been out and laid a few eggs around the route. James and Andrew Risk are now so keen that they even completed this 3 hour off road ride ahead of the Ron Sant memorial 43 mile road ride on Sunday.

We tried out a few newly discovered trails on the way across to Primrose Wood while Steve M fixed a puncture. Later on, Rob's mate Steve (I think that's his name) managed to destroy his rear hanger so Rob did his speciality singlespeed conversion - if it's good enough for Cader Idris!

Bacon and egg batch back at the cafe before heading back along the Whitegate Way with John and Kev C. A perfect warm up for the Ron Sant ride the following day - thanks to Paul Lawson for organising that and devising such a quite route, although the mountain bike would have been handy in places where the mud on the roads was as thick as it had been in Delamere.

Lakes Weekend 20/21 March

2010-03-12T20:29:00.008Z

11 of us made it to Whinlatter on Saturday to ride the challenging Altura north and south loops. Here we are at the highest point on the south loop. Grey skies slowly brightened and the cloud lifted, so we did it again after lunch. Check out the video below of one of the climbs - I was always too busy enjoying the descents to get the camera out. You can see a map and more details at http://www.forestry.gov.uk/alturatrail

7 of us stayed over at the Stybeck camping barn with refreshment and food ably supplied by the King's Head Hotel 1/2 mile away, although the very nice barmaid had a bad case of dropsy! The skies cleared completely and Sunday morning started bright but chilly. We headed north, then over the Old Coach Road which was quite a climb. Over the A66 to coffee at Mungrisdale then on to Mosedale where we headed west on a (just) ridable bridleway to Skiddaw House. From here there is a brilliant descent all the way to Keswick where we picked up the old railway to Threlkeld then the B road back to Stybeck, just about before the rain started. We all enjoyed the variety - trails on the Saturday and bridleways Sunday. Come and join us at Delamere if you fancy going off road.

Delamere Saturday 6 March

2010-03-03T21:09:00.007Z

Seven riders on what turned out to be a spring morning with some sunny spells. A big range in abilities as you can see from this video! But we all enjoyed 2 hours+ on the singletrack around the forest.
Thanks also to Andrew for plotting the approximate route with his iPhone http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=520531&code=2d357dc82f1843f131f13ffcc3a2e543

Sunday clubrun and more snow!

2010-02-21T17:17:00.003Z

What a surprise to wake up to a thick blanket of snow Sunday morning, dashed my hopes of last minute training on the road bike for the Llanberis weekend. So I went round to Hartford Social club on the mountain bike where I met Jed on his trike and Jon on his mtb. We headed down to Vale Royal drive where we met Kev Campbell on his mtb and rode to the Whitegate Way. Jed was finding traction tricky on his trike and the snow was fairly slushy and wet, so us 3 with the knobbly tyres enjoyed a fairly steady ride to Delamere cafe. Kev and I went up Old Pale and then a bit more round a muddy forest before heading home - still managed a few hours and more fun than the turbo. All set for next weekend now - snow permitting!

Hit the North mountain bike race

2010-02-21T16:50:00.007Z

Four of us made the start of this year's race (Ross missed out) but Kev Underhill had the misfortune to snap his chain fairly early on. It was a well run event with over 150 riders racing round a varied course with everything you would expect for mtb or cyclocross - a bit of a hybrid, cyclocross bikes probably being an advantage, but mtb more fun on the descents.

Matthew Pritchard - Revolution Bikes took the honours, I finished 32nd and Matthew 37th with Matthew's brother Ed just holding off Kev Campbell who finished a credible 3rd in his category. Thanks to Kev C for the analysis above.

Full results at http://www.ukresults.net/2010/hitnorth.html and some great pictures too at http://www.sportsunday.co.uk/portfolio86923p1.html also videos at http://www.hitthenorth.net/

Lakes Weekend 20/21 March

2010-02-10T20:17:00.003Z

This is the top of Skiddaw which we might do weather permitting. We'll certainly take in the fast, flowing Whinlatter Forest trails and some of the superb bridletracks around the Keswick area. I've booked Stybeck Farm Camping Barn at £12 each if we fill it. See http://www.stybeckfarm.co.uk/accommod.htm for a max of 10 people and we already have 5 takers, so be quick or find your own B&B. Let me know if you want to reserve a place please.

Delamere 6 Feb

2010-02-03T17:54:00.003Z

Thanks to Ross for the pictures of Saturdays ride over at Primrose Wood.

Banff Mountain Film Festival 13 Feb

2010-01-31T21:30:00.003Z

A number of films about extreme mountain sports including mountain biking showing in Manchester. See http://banff-uk.com/ for more details, leave a comment if you fancy going and we'll see if we can get a posse together.

Gisburn Forest..........The Big Push!

2010-01-16T21:26:00.002Z

Our first visit to Gisburn Forest had been eagerly awaited and the high turnout showed as much. Nick, Matt H, Kevin C, Eleanor, Andy, Derek, John, Rob and Richard made the journey north wondering what delights might await them.
We knew it could still be snowy, so it was no surprise when we rolled into the still frozen carpark. Didn't look too bad, just about rideable. We all got togged up and set off with high hopes, looking forward to the advertized "dancing with your mountainbike".
Wrong!
The snow was just awful, progress was nigh on impossible. Every time you moved off wheels sank in and it was like riding through glue! On the rare occasions you could get moving it wasn't long before the snow ripped your front wheel at rightangles and you began heading for the ditch.
Progress was pitifully slow but we pressed on, riding or pushing, hoping that soon we would be on the single track under the trees and out of the snow. Sure enough we soon got on some pretty good singel track which served to wet our appetites for more.
Back out of the trees we pushed and slithered along hoping for the next section of single track under the trees, it never came. Some bright herbert had thought it would be a good idea to cut most of the trees down and the track was just impossibly covered in slush, ice and snow. Result, we pushed just about the whole way round.
That is until we got within a couple of miles of the pub!
The group voted unanimously for the pub. So it was we had a nice lunch by the fire and headed back via the road to the cars. Nick and Matt were daft enough to opt for more pushing in the forest and they havn't been seen since.
Not the day we expected but it was a hoot and we just had to laugh. I think almost everyone fell off at some point but the best was Richard who lost it in the trees and rode straight into one to test if his collar bone was healed fully, it was, sigh of relief not hurt. Well not until Derek rode into him on the ground anyway, that's gratitude for you, last time he gets a lift anywhere. Only joking Derek, I'm OK really.

Gisburn Forest 16 Jan

2010-01-11T19:08:00.008Z

A new area for us to visit about 1.5 hrs drive away. Fantastic purpose built red and blue graded trails.

We have had good reports about this place and there are plenty of other tracks to tackle, if we get bored, across the Trough of Bowland. See http://explore.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/os_routes/show/9918

Meet 10am at Cocklet Hill Car Park OS SD745550. The following link gives directions and tells you much more (and supplied the picture above)http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/recreation.nsf/LUWebDocsByKey/EnglandLancashireNoForestGisburnCockletHillCarPark

I for one am looking forward to "dancing with my bike".

Bring food and drink in case the cafe is closed. Matthew and I are travelling together. Keep an eye on the forecast and come back here later in the week to check that we are still going.

Winter Wonderland 9 Jan

2010-01-09T16:19:00.006Z

Great idea to go for a ride in the snow Kevin! Four of us enjoyed a superb ride with no mishaps or falls. This was the zig-zag route up Pale Heights. We kept off the roads as much as possible. A quick coffee at Delamere then lunch at Summertrees.

Lots of the usual tracks and trails but the snow certainly gives them a completely new character. Apart from the odd patch of ice, the knobbly tyres grip the snow pretty well and the extra drag is resitance training, just what we need at this time of year.

The two Kevs are talking about a ride Sunday, so if you fancy it (and you have a mountain bike) leave a comment and they'll tell you where to meet. Thanks for a brilliant ride - see you all at the Velodrome Thursday then Gisburn on Saturday.

Snow riding

2010-01-07T18:23:00.002Z

See my adapted bike
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HP4VwaD7rd4&feature=player_embedded

Delamere 2 Jan 2010

2009-12-30T17:23:00.003Z

Hope you all had a good Christmas and will be ready to get out for a ride to start fulfilling that New Year's resolution. Riding off-road has all the benefits of riding on the road, but it's a bit more fun at this time of year.

Meet at Delamere Station cafe at 10am as usual, but we might try something a little different and head over to the pack horse bridges near Tarvin (see the picture above) via some tracks and lanes, depending on the weather.

Everyone is welcome - these are social rides and we won't leave you on your own, but we will get the chance to have a blast at times.

Another Follow the Dog video

2009-12-20T18:54:00.003Z

Here's some more of the Follow the Dog trail at Cannock, just as the snow started to fall and those are antlers on Richard's helmet! Complete with bells. Be patient, it takes a few minutes to buffer - I'll try to make them shorter in future. Apologies to Kevin who I cut away from.

Cannock Chase Frozen Solid

2009-12-19T18:06:00.003Z

Well another great day out thanks to Nick. Cannock Chase is really good fun and especially so when it is all frozen solid...............no mud.........yipee!
The trail is about 7 miles round and has an excellent mix of single track and gravel roads. There is not too much climbing and there are lots of fast flowing singletrack sections to test your skills.
Quite a gang out today, Eleanor, Nick, Matt Hornby, Kevin, Rob Jones, Andy Boyle, Richard, Gareth and Steve, apologies if I forgot any one.
Not satisfied with one run round we went again then had some lunch before going yet again! Still helps when you know what is coming. Probably the funniest thing was Gareth and Matt both finding it impossible to ride the one metre wide boardwalk without falling off the edge, particularly galling for Matt as he managed to ride the bit that was only six inches wide first time round!
Anyway a good day out and thanks to Nick for organizing it.

Cannock Chase 19 Dec

2009-12-17T18:59:00.002Z

Come and have a go at the recently improved Chase Trails. Follow the Dog is 7 mile intermediate cross country course with plenty of varied terrain. There is also a downhill area a short ride away which is worthy of a look. Cafe, shop etc on site. See http://www.chasetrails.co.uk/index.php for more information.

Meet at 10am at the Birches Valley car park, WS15 2UQ, GR018171 and use the lower car park to avoid the Christmas tree sales.

Delamere Sat 5 Dec

2009-11-30T19:13:00.004Z

If you think Delamere Forest is all firetracks and too easy...... come along and we'll show you some trickier bits! Loads of flowing singletrack too.

Something for everyone. All abilities welcome. Bike hire from tracs by the visitors centre if you need it. http://tracs-uk.co.uk/

Meet at the station cafe at 10am as usual for a couple of hours or so, then a bit more after lunch for those who fancy it.

A good ride for the 7 of us who braved the mud. Video shows Andy on the notorious bridge!

North West Cyclo Cross

2009-11-22T13:23:00.005Z

While some of us were enjoying the Llandegla trails Kevan and Eleanor were giving it everything to enhance their strong showing in the North West Cyclo Cross league at St Helens. Thanks to Matt Edwards for the pictures. You can find out more at http://www.nwcca.org.uk/ our own event was the first counter in this season's league.

There are events most weekends and mountainbikes can be used. I might have a crack at the Macc Wheelers Supercross on 27 Dec to burn off some of that turkey and Christmas pudd.

Llandegla 21 November

2009-11-16T22:46:00.003Z

If you haven't ridden these superb purpose built trails then you don't know what you're missing. They have even constructed some new ones for us. Meet at the centre at 10am. All abilities welcome as there are a wide range of trails to suit all levels of fitness and skill. Bike hire also available if you book. See http://www.coedllandegla.com/ for more information. Mobile reception is none existant up there, so don't be late.

Delamere 7 Nov

2009-11-04T19:11:00.002Z

Kevin approaches a boggy bit back in the "summer".

All abilities welcome - meet at the station cafe at 10am as usual - we'll ride over to Primrose Wood via the new obelisk at the top of Old Pale.

If you haven't ridden with us before, just turn up, you are most welcome. We regroup frequently and won't leave you lost in the woods. Delamere is the best place to come along and find out what we do. We shall end up back at the cafe in time for lunch, followed by some more trails for those who fancy it.

Don't forget that bike hire is available from http://www.tracs-uk.co.uk/

Brownbacks Hope Series Lee Quarry Race

2009-10-18T20:20:00.009+01:00

This was Ross riding one of the May races, but he was flying again today to leave the rest of the Weaver Valley contingent in his wake. Matthew and I had a battle which lasted most of the 2 hour race and Derek did much better than last time(when he crashed) finishing on the same lap as Matthew and me.

Mathew making it look easy? ...well pretty tricky actually...and it was!

Kevin had his first crack at mtb racing and loved it, saying he'll do it again. We all got back safely without any mishaps on this very demanding course. Thanks to the Brownbacks team for organising it, we'll be back next year if I have forgotten how gruelling it was. Loads of fantastic action pictures at http://clearshot-photos.com/bike%20gallerys/Brown%20backs%20r3%20s2/index.html and http://ikam99.co.uk/ikam99/Lee_Quarry_181009.html

Meanwhile Kevan has been riding cyclo cross (2 races this weekend) in the NWCCA league where he is well up in his category - well done Kev.

Leave your comments here to let us know what you thought about the race. Results should be at http://www.brownbacksracing.co.uk/ and http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/cyclo_cross_results.asp soon.

Off Road Weekend - Dolgellau

2009-10-04T21:43:00.006+01:00

Chris tackling the Tawr Trail at Coed y Brenin. Nine of us rode this trail on Saturday morning; much rockier and trickier than I remembered when it was the Red Bull. Unfortunately Jack C fell and gashed his knee which required five stitches, so he and Kevin C missed the MBR trail which we did after lunch. There are some really nice flowing sections on this now.Sunday saw seven of us ride (and push) to the summit of Cadair Idris (893m or 2930'). Picture shows us just below the summit with the Lleyn peninsula and Barmouth in the background. From the car park at Minffordd we headed along the quiet lanes past Tol y Byn Lake then over to Llanfihangel, up the valley to the pony path then the final rocky stretch to the top. We met another group from Frodsham, although they shot off ahead for the descent with their body armour and a more downhill attitude than us.
The descent of the pony path was just reward for the gruelling climb. Photo shows Dave leading Jack and Kevin with the summit in the background. No serious injuries on the descent, but a couple of fallers on the rocky upper section. The lower slopes were super fast gravel tracks; 2 hours up, 30 minutes down!

Check your diaries and let me know how mid Feb sounds for the next weekend in the north Lakes.

Delamere Saturday 19 Sept

2009-09-16T21:05:00.004+01:00

Meet at the station cafe at 10am as usual for as much or as little as you like. All welcome.

Top ride last time with a good spread of abilities. We all kept together so that everyone completed 2hrs or so. The trails should even be a little drier now after the fine weather.

Altura trails and Skiddaw

2009-09-14T17:50:00.006+01:00

This was the view to Blencathra from the top of Skiddaw on Friday evening. I rode (and pushed) most of the way up with a Keswick resident called Paul who often does this after work - makes a blast round Delamere look a bit tame!

It was a great way to finish off a beautiful sunny day which I spent on the Altura trails at Whinlatter. More technical than the north Wales trails I thought, with uphill drop-offs(!) as a result of them felling the trees to clear the path, but leaving the roots which were big and slippy. Fantastic views of Derwent water and definately worth another visit.

Saturday met up with some "old" friends from The Tyneside Vagabonds at Keilder where we had two goes at the new red trails - Deadwater Fell and Lewisburn. The former being fairly technical in places and both much better second time around with plenty of flowing singletrack.

Weaver Valley Cyclo Cross 09

2009-09-06T23:24:00.004+01:00

For full results go to
http://www.nwcca.org.uk/2009/09/weaver-valley-cyclocross-pignut-hill-6-sept-2009/

Good conditions saw a total of 129 finishers in the three Cyclo Cross events held by Weaver Valley Cycling Club at Greenbank, Northwich on Sunday.

Riders from all over the North West and beyond travelled to the race, which is the first event of the North West Cyclo Cross Association League.

The Under 12 event was won by Leighton Sharman of Eastlands Velo, first girl was Megan James of Abergavenny RC with a superb fifth place overall and first Under 10. The Youths race was won by Jack Humphreys of Red Rose Olympic. Ffion James of Abergavenny RC was first girl, again a great ride.

The Senior event was a closely fought battle between Leigh Fearn of Matlock CC and Tom Lowe of Raleigh Avanti RT who battled it out, with Fearn taking the honours. Conan Mayman of Rhyl was first veteran and 3rd overall with Lewis Birke of Macclesfield Wheelers taking the junior prize and 4th overall. Best lady was the promoting club's Eleanor Underhill, with Ross Parker being the first Weaver Valley CC rider home for the second year running. Kevan Underhill just two places back with Derek Huffadine 3rd WVCC rider ahead of Jon Conboy and Andy Beswick.

Weaver Valley CC would like to thank all those who turned out to support and help with another successful event.

ASDA funday 22 Aug with Chris Hoy

2009-08-23T21:47:00.004+01:00

Those of you who didn't come along to Winsford's ASDA store on Saturday missed a chance to get your photo taken with Sir Chris like me, I bet you're all jealous now. We did get a few serious enquiries about the club, so it was worthwhile. And Chris seems like a really nice, down to Earth type of bloke, although he was pretty quiet.

Evening ride at Llandegla Wed 26 Aug

2009-08-23T21:19:00.003+01:00

Last chance for a ride after work at the fantastic Landegla mountainbike centre. See www.coedllandegla.com if you don't already know what this place has to offer...and if you don't, then get yourself there because it's the best fun you can have legally! (Well, that might be a slight exageration, but not much)

Meet outside the cafe for 6.30pm start. We should just have time to ride the recently refurbished black route before the light goes.

Thanks to Ross for leading us on another night-time mystery tour on a perfect, clear Friday evening. Acton Bridge, Dutton and then the canal to Runcorn and Daresbury for some exciting single track before refreshment at the Leigh Arms. Matthew won the prize for the best homemade light...it was "brilliant".

Delamere Sat 15 Aug

2009-08-13T17:30:00.003+01:00

Meet at the station cafe as usual at 10am to explore more of the forest singletrack. All abilities welcome. 2 hours or so then lunch back at the cafe. More for those who want it after lunch.

Picture shows Kev U, Jack and Kev C tackling the mud.

Off Road Weekend - Dolgellau

2009-08-10T18:00:00.002+01:00

I'm thinking of booking the following bunk house http://www.guesthousessnowdonia.com/accom-bunkhouse.html for the first weekend in October, staying Fri 2nd and Saturday 3rd. This means we can do another Welsh mountain - Cader Idris one day and the fantastic Coed y Brenin trails the other.

Let me know who's up for it and I'll book if we get enough interest. Breakfast can be provided too.

Clwyd Hills Sat 1 Aug

2009-07-28T17:28:00.008+01:00

Another good turnout and ten of us completed the "Arthur 2 times" route around the northern end of the Clwyd hills, thanks to Matt having programmed it into his GPS from the Ride the Clwyds website. A few spots of rain as we set off gave way to sunshine and fantastic views across the Vale of Clwyd, Denbigh and Ruthin, to the Carnedds and Tryfan beyond. Despite all the recent rain, the going wasn't as wet as anticipated as many of the tracks appear to have had gravel applied. This route isn't without some long climbs, but much of it traverses the hills giving some "quality" offroad riding.

After a very pleasant lunch at the Loggerheads Country Park cafe Jon, Kevin, Jack and I set off to do a bit more. 1000 feet of climbing later and Jack's legs began to protest - hardly surprising after a full morning's ride, so he and Kevin peeled off while Jon and I rode one of the permissive routes over the shoulder of Moel Famau with a superb grassy descent to the west. The only trouble was that left a gruelling climb back up and over the ridge before we could descend towards Cilcain and the lanes back to Loggerheads. Thanks also to Andy B for the additional pics.

Evening Ride at Llandegla 22 July

2009-07-20T23:53:00.004+01:00

Kevin C and son Jack rode the roller coaster Black trail at Llandegla for the first time on Wednesday evening. If you haven't ridden these trails you don't know what you're missing. They loved it; especially Jack who probably hasn't lost that big grin off his face yet. Andy Boyle made it too, but arrived late so rode the recently improved Red trail. The place was buzzing, with the BBQ in full swing. We'll have to do it again before the nights draw in.

See http://www.coedllandegla.com/ for more info.

Next ride is 1 August ( no off road ride 25 July - the diary page on the website is incorrect)

Delamere 11 July

2009-07-09T17:17:00.002+01:00

Follow this man through the forest if you can! Here is Ross in action at Brown Backs Racing's Lea Quarry event (thanks to them for the pic). He always seems to find some undiscovered trails, so don't miss out.

All abilities welcome and we can split into two groups if it suits. We certainly won't leave you lost in the forest. Meet at the station cafe at 10am.

Penmachno & Marin Trails 27 June

2009-06-24T17:26:00.004+01:00

Turned out nice eventually. This is the atmospheric view across to Moel Siabod from the Dragon's Back on the Marin trail. Just Andy B and I tackled this one after Penmachno in the morning where we were joined by Alan Cook of BNECC. Despite the drizzle it was warm and great fun combining these two trails with a cafe stop in between at an excellent new cafe on the junction of the A5 and the B road to Penmachno.

The ride wasn't without incident. Alan and Andy had falls on the very slippery wet rocks on the Penmachno trail and Andy's seat post broke (at least the bolt did) half way round the Marin. I took pity on him after a while and swapped my seat to his bike; riding without a saddle certainly builds up the quads.

Thanks to Andy for the lift in the van - makes changing after the ride easier too!

Here we were on top of Old Pale on one of the recent Delamere rides. But we'll find more excitement Saturday on the Penmachno and Marin Trails. For those who don't know it, the Marin is a testing, rugged trail. Penmachno is less technical, but still great fun with some fantastic flowing sections. We can ride to Penmachno on quiet lanes and tracks, back to Betws for lunch, then off to the Marin which is a short ride away.

Meet at Betws y Coed's main P&D car park at 10am. I can offer 1 place in my car, so get in touch if you want a lift.

Polaris Challenge

2009-06-14T21:26:00.005+01:00

I teamed up with Gareth for my first attempt at a Polaris at Bamford in the Peak District. Sort of orienteering on mountain bikes, you get 7 hours riding Saturday and 5 on Sunday to reach as many of 40 checkpoints as you can, taking any roads or bridle tracks between them.

On Saturday, in glorious sunshine, Kevan and Eleanor who are regular winners of the mixed category managed 19 checkpoints. Gareth and I only 17, despite riding further and faster than most. It was revealed that our route planning was poor, or non-existant.

So Sunday we spent much longer doing the planning after finding out that the checkpoints had been awarded various point scores according to their accessabilty. Another glorious day and we really got into the swing of it. We did much better and just pipped the Underhills by 5 points overall. They were still 5th in the mixed teams and best mixed Super Vets with Gareth and I 12th in the Senior category; which wasn't bad for a first attempt. We might even go back next year. A big thank you to Kevan and Eleanor for showing us the ropes and persiting with the idea of doing this event.

The results and details about the event should soon be posted at http://www.polarischallenge.com/

31 May Sunday Llandegla & Llangollen NPS

2009-05-27T09:26:00.003+01:00

Don't miss this chance to see the country's top downhillers in action. It's MSC/Descent-Gear National Points Series Rd 2 at Llangollen on Saturday and Sunday the 30th and 31st of May 2009.

In their words, round two is going to be off the Richter Scale and will go down in the history books as the hardest track in the U.K to race on. Steve Parr and his trail fairies have officially set the bench mark and completed a master piece.

The course drops 1,000 feet and is super steep. Imagine the steepest and most technical sections from your favourite tracks, Champery, Glen Coe, Mynth Duu, Strathyre, Dunkeld, Goats Gully and Fort William Woods all in one track, without a break and no let up. The only pedalling you will do is three strokes off the start line and that is it.

Read all about it at http://www.npsdh.com/ We'll meet at Llandegla Mountain Bike Centre at 10am for a lap or two of the black route before heading off to Llangollen to see the timed runs.

Night Ride Sun 24 May

2009-05-21T18:05:00.002+01:00

Ross has kindly offered to lead us on a night ride on the local tracks and trails. Meet outside the Weaverham shops at 8pm. We'll do the technical stuff before it's too dark; stop for some refreshment; then head home for around midnight.

4-5 recruits so far - so come and join us and don't worry about super expensive headlights - I haven't. But I have got a head torch, so bring one if you have too.

Delamere 16th May

2009-05-17T20:56:00.002+01:00

Eleanor shows us all how to do it!

Eight of us enjoyed a bright morning around the forest, topped off with a race up Pale Heights which Gareth won. I've been coaching him on the niceties of racing and he's a quick learner. After tucking in behind Kevan and Jonti into the headwind, he sensed their easing up as the going steepened again and seized his chance, jumping away with a terriffic kick.

Good bacon and egg batches at the station cafe too.

Delamere Sat 16 May

2009-05-14T08:30:00.003+01:00

Meet at the station cafe at 10am for a couple of hours or more of fun on the abundant single track. I bet we can show you some new places in the forest.

All abilities and non-members welcome to come along and give it a try. We regroup frequently so won't leave anyone to get lost, probably heading back to the cafe for lunch.

Picture shows Gareth at Lee Quarry 2 May. We have entered the Polaris as a team 13-14 June along with the Underhills. Sounds like it should be a laugh, so anyone else who fancies it see the link under what's on.

Lee Quarry Race 4th May

2009-05-07T12:14:00.003+01:00

Thanks to Matthew Hornby for the following report and well done for completing the event. Picture above was taken the previous Saturday on one of the rocky sections.

Monday 4th May started bright and early for Derek and myself - well actually it was very early and really quite damp, a little dispiriting considering the glorious weather earlier in the weekend. No matter, at 7.30 we were on the road to Bacup and the Brownbacks race number 2 in the Hope series. Because the Bank Holiday traffic was fairly light we were there in plenty of time to sign on, have a brew and even a little warm up/practice before the off.

Slightly annoyingly that was delayed by about 10 minutes, just time enough to get really cold standing in the biting wind in race kit, although the first climb up the access road and onto the course proper soon put paid to any worry that we might remain chilly for the whole race. Derek shot out of the traps, and seeing him skipping up the track on the carbon fibre Giant brought to mind the image of a young Himalayan Mountain Goat enjoying the first days of spring. Unfortunately Goat boy was taken out of the race towards the end of the first lap, damaging his front brake lever in an over-the-handlebars accident. Considering the amount of rocks around where he fell, a couple of hundred yards after the yellow spotted rocks, he was lucky it wasn't much worse.

So that left it down to me to suffer on my own, (except at the end of each lap where Derek's exit meant I had one spectator shouting for me at least) and suffering was the order of the day. I'd spoken to Gareth the night before, and read Saturday's Blog but even so the technical nature of the course, particularly the rocky section where Derek had his 'off' were more taxing than expected. I was pretty confident for the first couple of laps, making a good pace and looking forward to making up places as others started to flag, but in the end that just didn't happen. From lap three the rocky areas were becoming more slippy as mud was transferred to them, and just riding over them was difficult, never mind maintaining a racing pace. I've always been pretty poor in rock gardens. Lap 4 was a real struggle, and to really put a hat on it, on lap 5, I also had a minor fall, (by this point I wasn't really going fast enough to have a proper crash) and managed to hurt my wrist. After that it was really just a case of completing to get a place and carry the WVCC colours over the line as I couldn't use the rear brake properly. The last lap took about 2.5 mins longer than previous efforts. In the end I was in 26th place in the Weekend Warrior class, (out of 49, not 27 before you ask) my 6 laps being one less than the leaders.

Having said all that, and in hindsight, I really quite enjoyed the race and the course. The berm-y and jump-y bits were, as suggested, great fun to ride, and the competition was friendly and supportive, those just behind me stopping to check I was OK when I fell. I think I'll have another punt later in the year, and make sure I'm a little better prepared next time. Derek definitely has another appointment with Beswick's Boulder too! Full results are available at http://www.brownbacksracing.co.uk/race_series/1/results.html and there should be links to race photo's there too soon.

Lee Quarry 2nd May

2009-05-02T22:24:00.005+01:00

Andy gets some air at Lee Quarry - between Rawtnestall and Bacup in Lancashire. They've made a great job creating a 5km "red" loop (Andy, Gareth and I did 5 circuits) with an additional 2km "black"(bonkers) bit for those who like checking out the ground with their faces.

The red is great, quite a heavy climb then some twisty bits with BIG berms and a short sharp climb before some flowing singletrack with the odd rocky section to brush off the speed. Nothing too technical or menacing. If you want that you just take the black deviation - and it certainly is devious. If you want demanding rocky stuff to test your technical skill and bottle, this is the place! I was just too slow with my camera to capture Andy doing a sidways dismount as he trashed his big ring on a rock and another rider go over the front on a massive 1mtr drop off - none of us even attempted that one.

Lots of trials areas too for balance skills. Great place though and we'll be back. Not sure what the course will be for the race on Monday - mainly the red route I guess which will be fine. Good luck those who are riding it.

Delamere Sat 18 April

2009-04-16T17:20:00.002+01:00

Meet at the Station cafe as usual at 10am. All abilities welcome. We may split into two groups, technical and less so. Either way, you won't get left to fend for yourself in the dark wood. If you don't think the forest is challenging enough, then we'll show you different!
There is much more to go at than you might think, and all half an hour's ride from Northwich.

Coed y Brenin 4 April

2009-04-05T21:24:00.004+01:00

A smaller than usual group of three headed for North Wales courtesy of Andy's van. We hit the Beast trail which is 37km of mainly singletrack with some rocky technical sections but more flowing than it used to be. It takes in 3500ft of climbing (that's equivalent to riding up Snowdon), but that didn't seem to bother Derek. He was having trouble holding down his new super lightweight carbon/alloy Giant bike, resulting in Andy and me grovelling to keep up on every climb. And lots of comments from other surprised groups riding at a more sedate pace.

But you are never far from another descent on this trail and here the playing field was a bit leveller with the three of us keeping fairly close together and catching a few other groups as we went. A quick tea and barra brith at the cafe mid route gave us the sustenance to climb to the highest point and then tackle the neverending descents, which have been gretatly improved, but still require 100% concentration. We finished off the trail with further refreshment at the visitors' centre. A grand day out with blue skies for much of the time.

Beforehand, someone had the suggestion of stopping off on the way home to ride up Snowdon, but they had gone off the idea by the end of the Beast! I won't say who's idea it was for fear of embarrassment, and Derek and I didn't want to make too much of the change of heart because we wanted a lift back to Northwich! Thanks for the lift Andy and welcome to the world of pain and suffering which is cycling.

Delamere 21 March

2009-03-19T20:56:00.003Z

Here's Ross showing us how to ride one of the narrow "bridges" he found on some singletrack, which was completely new to the rest of us, in Delamere Forest. Seven of us enjoyed the sunshine (until it disappeared) with the driest conditions so far this year. Lunch at the cafe, followed by a climb of Pale Heights to warm up again, then back into the forest for more fun.

New member Dave had no problem keeping up, he's obviously pretty good at the technical stuff. Andy was looking the part wearing his new lycra bottoms. In fact I'm worried that we are passing on too much information to these newcommers - Andy goes twice as fast up the hills now he's got some spd pedals. And he was the only one apart from Ross to ride over the log bridge. The great thing about these rides in Delamere is that you can do as much, or as little, as you like. It's never far back to the car park, or back home. Ross led Gareth and me back to Northwich via Crowton and Dutton Locks on the Weaver Way for a relaxing change.

7 March Tegg's Nose for 3 Shires Bridge

2009-03-05T17:49:00.005Z

Seven of us set out from Tegg's Nose country park a few miles E of Macclesfield for a challenging ride along tracks and back roads to Three Shire Heads where Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire meet. The bridge here crosses our very own River Dane just a mile or two from its source.

Here we are near Bottom of the Oven before the climb up to the Cat & Fiddle which we finished off on a track from the tea shop. Lots of model gliders were catching the strong updraft near the top. After Three Shire Heads we took a tough track past some motorcycle trials riders towards Flash. Down and up along some back roads to the Eagle and Child, which less young WVCC members will remember as a lunch stop in the 70s & 80s. From there a track took us over to the A54 and the cafe at Blaze Farm for a lunch of Staffordshire Oatcakes.

A short way down the main road and another track with a deceptively deep ford (wet feet) brought us out on the Wildboarclough road. A little detour over to Macc Forest before the final grind back up to the car park before we had seen more than a drop of the promised rain.

Delamere and the Packhorse Bridges

2009-02-21T19:49:00.003Z

Ross led four more of us on a mystery tour taking in a remarkable number of new singletrack sections. From Delamere to the Whitegate Way, through to Oulton Park, Cotebrook, Primrose Hill then back over Old Pale for lunch back at our starting point. Mike had a disagreement with a rock, Eleanor had 2 punctures and I had one, so morale may have been a little low.

Nobody wanted to join me to ride the Packhorse Bridges, so I went on my own. And here they are...well two of them anyway. There are three altogether and really quite impressive. If you want to know where they are, you'll have to come out on another off road ride. Two more punctures (sandpaper, glue and patches by now) and a brief stop at the Ice Cream Farm before home to complete 6 hours riding in preparation for the big one next weekend!

Hit the North mountain bike race

2009-02-15T20:57:00.003Z

Hey...see the video - courtesy of Alan's Bikes http://www.hitthenorth.net/ I think the cameraman had a soft spot for El and Matthew! Looks a great course.

Thanks to Matthew Hornby for the following report:

The 7th of Feb was the date four intrepid members of the WVCC, (off road section) turned up at Phillips Park in North Manchester to race mountain bikes – for pleasure ! Travelling plans were hatched at the Velodrome the previous Thursday and changed the following day which meant that 3 bodies and bikes set of from Weaverham at 7.45 on a cold and frosty Saturday morning, with Rob Pettitt and the full complement of supporters meeting us there, (thanks for cheering us on the Pettitts, it really does help.)
The cold and frost was in plentiful supply at the race venue too, and so too were mud specific narrow knobblies, as well as standard width of MTB tyres more suited to the frozen conditions we found. Weather the course thawed out or not, it seemed that some people had made the wrong choice. Too late to worry about that now though, time to get signed in, bikes off the car, into race gear, numbers on and up to the start for the big……..well, cup of Tea or Coffee actually, we never start an off road ride without a decent warming brew first. Good job really, as a broken megaphone meant a delayed start by about quarter of an hour, and the sun still hadn’t come out. But eventually we did get going, and as with cyclocross races, it seemed that start position was the other important choice to be made. For Ross and myself, being in the first quarter of the field meant a good start with few hold ups, but further back Elenor was suffering in the traffic of single-track ineptitude.
So, the course then. What an excellent, and surprisingly varied route the Hit the North guys had designed in a small area. There were sections of dry single track, technical decents, steep ascents, frozen mud, (which quickly turned to unfrozen mud, looks like the narrow tyres were a good idea after all) and wide, fast vehicle tracks around a lake. There were some rather large patches of ice in the more open areas of the course too, which caused me at least some significant deviations from the accepted racing line. All the WVCC contingent managed five or six of the three mile laps, the final circuit made all the harder by the marshals encouraging the riders to dig in for the finish one lap early due to the late start.
Come the end, Ross made 6th, I was 11th and Rob 29th out of 89 starters. Elenor came in 47th, but more importantly 2nd woman, narrowly beaten on a short tarmac section at the end by a cyclocrosser. Well done to all taking part and to the organisers for a brilliant event. There’s talk of a similar race later in the summer, here’s hoping we can have even more entrants then, and drier conditions.