Post by: wilkyboy on 28 January, 2018, 06:06:56 pm
To quote Tomsk: "All in all a great route that has the makings of a tough, early-season classic :thumbsup:" Always fun ;)
As last year there are two routes — the Classic route, which is still one of my faves from Cambridge, as well as the new, more scenic route, with added elevation-gain and a raft of new countryside and landmarks, plus bonus kilometres (but no extra time allowed) — a proper challenge for anyone who's up for it. The Extra is just shy of AAA by the new method of counting, but that should give some indication of its stiffness, especially for an East Anglian start!
Hopefully a little less windy than last year ...
Also The Cambridge Spring Dash 100 (http://www.camaudax.uk/springdash) — a ride of two pubs across the chalky hills south of Cambridge!
We'll be serving something hot and plenty of cake at arrivée, as previous events. Always a friendly and sociable finish to nicely-challenging, early-season rides :)
http://www.camaudax.uk/porkpie (http://www.camaudax.uk/porkpie)
http://www.camaudax.uk/springdash (http://www.camaudax.uk/springdash)
A previous year's chat here (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=101329.0).
* unless something changes between now and then, of course
Post by: jiberjaber on 28 January, 2018, 06:36:55 pm
Post by: dim on 28 January, 2018, 06:43:08 pm
does that rule me out for the 200km or the 100km ride?
Post by: wilkyboy on 28 January, 2018, 06:58:46 pm
Nick, is the Extra slice just out and back on the same route ? (the RWGPS link is just a 110km out route https://ridewithgps.com/routes/19392047 )
Jibers, the Extra uses a different route between Oundle and Melton Mowbray compared to the Classic. Everyone uses the same return route ... although I'm going to see if I can find more hills for the Extra retour, just for you :demon:
Post by: wilkyboy on 28 January, 2018, 07:02:40 pm
Hi Nick .... I don't have mudguards, and I don't want to buy clip on mudguards for my bike. (I am saving up for an additional bike for Audax that will have mudguards, dynamo lights etc, but I may not have that in time)
does that rule me out for the 200km or the 100km ride?
Dim, possibly all you need is a cheapo ass-saver, like one of these (https://www.evanscycles.com/ass-saver-regular-rear-mudguard-26-27-5-29-700c-EV315098) — literally something just so's when you sit down you don't leave a muddy patch on someone else's seat. Even a decent-sized Carradice or similar saddle bag will do the same job. You'll probably be asked to ride on the back of the group if you don't have full-length guards, though, as you'll still be kicking it up in other riders' faces.
Then again, it could be bone-dry on the day, here's hoping ...
Post by: dim on 28 January, 2018, 07:06:30 pm
Hi Nick .... I don't have mudguards, and I don't want to buy clip on mudguards for my bike. (I am saving up for an additional bike for Audax that will have mudguards, dynamo lights etc, but I may not have that in time)
does that rule me out for the 200km or the 100km ride?
Dim, possibly all you need is a cheapo ass-saver, like one of these (https://www.evanscycles.com/ass-saver-regular-rear-mudguard-26-27-5-29-700c-EV315098) — literally something just so's when you sit down you don't leave a muddy patch on someone else's seat. Even a decent-sized Carradice or similar saddle bag will do the same job. You'll probably be asked to ride on the back of the group if you don't have full-length guards, though, as you'll still be kicking it up in other riders' faces.
thanks Nick .... I will get the ass-saver if I don't have my new bike in time :thumbsup:
Post by: jiberjaber on 28 January, 2018, 07:51:15 pm
Haha thanks..... ;)Nick, is the Extra slice just out and back on the same route ? (the RWGPS link is just a 110km out route https://ridewithgps.com/routes/19392047 )
Jibers, the Extra uses a different route between Oundle and Melton Mowbray compared to the Classic. Everyone uses the same return route ... although I'm going to see if I can find more hills for the Extra retour, just for you :demon:
Post by: De Sisti on 28 January, 2018, 09:17:10 pm
You'll probably be asked to ride on the back of the group if you don't have full-length guards with a decent size mudflap,FTFY
though, as you'll still be kicking it up in other riders' faces.
;)
Post by: ElyDave on 28 January, 2018, 09:42:14 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 28 January, 2018, 09:47:24 pm
Nick, are you accepting entries on the line? I enjoyed this a couple of years ago, but work is looking very busy this year and might not know my availability until late on.
Dave, it's a bit early to be discussing EOL. I usually have a few spares for late entrants, but it's by arrangement and in very limited numbers, because we need to know a week or so beforehand how many we're catering for at arrivée.
Post by: wilkyboy on 16 February, 2018, 10:32:16 am
As for the Pork Pie Extra route, I'm thinking I might reverse it this year — the Classic will stay the same, but I think it could be fun to ride the Extra the wrong way around; with only the one control at Melton Mowbray, it's possible to explore a bit. I'm hoping to try it next weekend, and then route-check the Classic in early March.
I checked the Spring Dash 100km route a couple of weeks ago and no changes: two pubs, plus one info that you don't need to stop to take note of, it will be clear to you as you pass it and you probably won't even need to slow down for it, either :)
Post by: wilkyboy on 24 February, 2018, 10:06:11 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 27 February, 2018, 08:10:12 pm
It was a beautifully bright and sunny day, in spite of the cold, and it was a glorious journey seeing all the views from the other side — the scenery really is earily as nice leftwards as it is to the right, possibly more-so :thumbsup:
This year's Classic route is the same as always — it's a lovely route, briefly challenging in places, but the views are worth it ;)
And this year's Extra route is the reverse of last year's, with a few other minor alterations. You do not have to do anything different to ride the Classic or the Extra — just enter The Cambridge Pork Pie on the Audax UK website and then decide on the day — even while you're riding — which route you'd prefer to use.
There is just one control at the halfway point in Melton Mowbray for both routes, so you can mix'n'match as you and your companions see fit. Both routes are identical to Oundle (and back), so you don't even need to make a decision until you've had a coffee :)
Post by: drossall on 28 February, 2018, 10:07:13 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 03 March, 2018, 12:02:10 pm
At the moment I think the forecast* is likely to be a lovely spring day — sun all day, with a gentle south-easterly to lunch, and a strengthening north-westerly back to Cambridge in the afternoon. Temperatures will stay above 8°C, but won't rise above 15°C, as it's obviously still spring. There will be a brief rain shower at about 1pm, but you'll be able to watch it pass over through Gregg's front window in Melton Mowbray. A perfect day for a long bike ride ;)
* Obviously I'm making this up — I have no idea what we're forecast yet.
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2018, 10:51:23 pm
If you're think of joining us, don't tarry too long, as entries finally close in a couple of days' time — more information here (http://www.camaudax.uk/porkpie).
* for mid-March.
Post by: drossall on 12 March, 2018, 12:02:00 am
So incidentally is the link from the Pork Pie page to the Spring Dash page (it's got the folder name for the Pork Pie as though it was a sub-page, whereas actually it's alongside in the folder tree).
Hope this helps!
Post by: wilkyboy on 12 March, 2018, 12:06:11 am
The links to the GPX and TCX files, at least for the 100, are broken (on the CamAudax page). The gps-2018 folder is missing from the path (you can see that by comparing the location of the Pork Pie files).
So incidentally is the link from the Pork Pie page to the Spring Dash page (it's got the folder name for the Pork Pie as though it was a sub-page, whereas actually it's alongside in the folder tree).
Hope this helps!
Thanks — that helps immensely. Fixed now, thank you!
(I must remember to click every link before pushing live :-[)
Post by: wilkyboy on 12 March, 2018, 07:19:38 pm
Post by: bhoot on 12 March, 2018, 08:57:50 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 12 March, 2018, 09:12:51 pm
Post by: psyclist on 12 March, 2018, 09:27:55 pm
Post by: dim on 12 March, 2018, 09:44:01 pm
The MetOffice forecast is currently much better than yr.no ... so just choose the forecast that most appeals, same chance of getting that weather on the day.
bottom line ... it looks like a hard ride/shit day, with strong wind .... so dress warm ... :)
Post by: wilkyboy on 12 March, 2018, 10:03:13 pm
The MetOffice forecast is currently much better than yr.no ... so just choose the forecast that most appeals, same chance of getting that weather on the day.
bottom line ... it looks like a hard ride/shit day, with strong wind .... so dress warm ... :)
I wouldn't put it quite like that, Dim — I route checked The Pork Pie Extra a couple of weeks ago and the temperature barely got above 2°C, yet it was still a glorious day out on the bike :thumbsup:
But I agree you'll need to dress a lot warmer than the forecast suggested yesterday ::-)
Post by: wilkyboy on 13 March, 2018, 09:20:26 pm
Post by: drossall on 13 March, 2018, 10:27:30 pm
Post by: jakemcree on 14 March, 2018, 03:18:10 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 14 March, 2018, 03:36:39 pm
Just seen the temperature for Saturday and a bit concerned there could be ice?
You're not the only one, I've received a few emails about this. However, I would not be overly concerned beforehand, and I would practice caution on the ride — we are forecast quite a few warm days before the event with not much in the way of rain, so we are definitely not expecting long-term, built-up ice. There might be the occasional icy puddle.
What I would say is this: the roads on this course tend to dry quickly and they go very light-coloured — you can see where there's water about, which is mostly field run-off from one side to the other. There will also be a lot of gravel around, washed into the road over winter, and I suspect that's the greater risk.
At the moment the weather is forecast to be pretty much how I rode the route a couple of weeks ago — I saw just one patch of ice in the whole ride and it was really obvious (field run-off) and of very little risk when ridden with care. I have ridden the route previously in hailstorms, which was amazing — the views were incredible with the storm blowing through. And I’ve ridden parts of the route during a prolonged cold period and while there was ice, it was obvious everywhere and safe enough to ride past with care: the sloped/hilly nature of much of the route means that ice tends to be frozen run-off, rather than sheet ice on the flat, so it’s usually really obvious where it is and where it’s not.
I am advising riders to take damp, shaded corners with care, i.e. don’t race in at maximum lean, just in case, but the rest of the route should be low-risk, I think — that’s just my experience, not a guarantee. Personally I would be happy to ride this route in the forecast conditions, but I would ride cautiously where I thought the risk of ice was greatest.
As always, only take the risks you are comfortable with. You are responsible for your own ride. Audax is a fast tour, it is not a race!
Post by: jakemcree on 14 March, 2018, 06:59:39 pm
Post by: ElyDave on 14 March, 2018, 07:43:50 pm
Do you have a date in mind for next year yet?
Post by: wilkyboy on 14 March, 2018, 08:22:34 pm
Do you have a date in mind for next year yet?
Let's get this edition outta the way first, eh, Dave?! ;)
Post by: ElyDave on 14 March, 2018, 08:32:50 pm
Just sayin'
Post by: wilkyboy on 14 March, 2018, 11:18:11 pm
Next year, this bit of work has an accelerated deadline due to Brexit, it'll all be over by 11th March.
Just sayin'
Assuming Brexit actually happens of course :P
At the moment I would expect we'll run it the same weekend as this year and last, but being a PBP year then it may be forced to move.
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 15 March, 2018, 11:17:30 am
Post by: psyclist on 16 March, 2018, 06:22:42 am
When I sent the emails out last night, the weather forecast was for a very nice day. 12 hours later and it has turned a lot cooler ::-) I'm not pinning anything on the forecast for a day or two yet, it could all blow through on Friday, or not arrive until Sunday, or even not at all. Fingers crossed!
Are you sure you kept your fingers crossed? The media is today talking about a mini beast from the east. Hopefully the snow that is forecast for early in the morning and during the day in Melton Mowbray does not materialise.
Post by: bhoot on 16 March, 2018, 08:19:06 am
Post by: wilkyboy on 16 March, 2018, 08:49:08 am
What a difference a day will make....beautiful spring morning in London today, perfect cycling conditions.
Yes, I popped out to the shops and it was glorious. Tomorrow, in contrast I think, will be "memorable" ::-)
Interestingly, yr.no doesn't have anything major to report, and they're usually pretty good, so I'm putting it down to "a chance of" rather than "it will definitely happen" — it's just a yellow warning, not anything serious.
If there is snow on the ground in the morning, then the Busway will be interesting for the Porkers, but at least no cars around. From St Ives then it's main roads to Sawtry, and by then other traffic should've cleared a path. For the Dashing lot, it's fair to say that any settled snow will have been disturbed by motor vehicles long before they get there.
Of course, that's IF there's snow — we may have none at all :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 16 March, 2018, 05:09:18 pm
All Pork Pie (200) riders will be welcome to switch to the Spring Dash (100) event at the start and I expect there will be quite a few who will — just turn up and tell Ben on the desk that you'd like to switch and he'll provide you with the brevet, routesheet and hopefully access to a GPX (it would be better if you sorted this out before you left home, though).
Looking at the hour-by-hour, it's looking like Rutland and Leicestershire might well be faced with some decent snow showers, whereas Cambridge will see only a flurry or two, so the 100 is looking straightforward, the 200 "adventurous".
The email for the Pork Pie riders is here (http://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-cambridge-pork-pie-2018/pork-pie-weather), and the email for the Spring Dash riders is here (http://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-cambridge-spring-dash-2018/spring-dash-weather).
Post by: yanto on 17 March, 2018, 06:50:09 am
EDIT: It's snowing NOW (07:30)
Post by: bhoot on 17 March, 2018, 07:34:11 am
Post by: wilkyboy on 17 March, 2018, 09:48:55 am
There is NO snow in Melton Mowbray this morning.
EDIT: It's snowing NOW (07:30)
Thanks Yanto!
It has been snowing on and off in Cambridge, but the roads are completely clear.
About one third of the Pork Pie (200) entrants started and just under half the Spring Dash (100) entrants. We're going to be eating leftover cake for weeks to come :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 17 March, 2018, 12:35:52 pm
Post by: drossall on 17 March, 2018, 01:25:00 pm
Post by: ElyDave on 17 March, 2018, 01:25:09 pm
Post by: dme on 17 March, 2018, 05:19:19 pm
Excellent soup and cake at the finish as always.
Thanks Nick and helpers!
Post by: orejas on 18 March, 2018, 12:13:07 am
Post by: Flatlander on 18 March, 2018, 12:23:51 am
The cold and bitter wind were a different matter. I slighly hampered myself by leaving my outer gloves outside when I got back from the pub on Friday night, leaving them soaking and cold on Saturday morning so I had substandard hand insulation with an ild pair. For me it was actuall a plasent fide out to Melton. Around Oundle the sun came out ant the temperature beached the 0 theshold. The extra route had a cunningly place gate on a 15% hill to add interest. I was Ok untill the Rockingham speedway stadium. Here the temperature had dropped to -3.4 and the course goes eastwood into a strong headwind. My hands were alternating between pain and numb, and gear cotrol went out of the window. I was also very slow with the average dropping to 22Kph.
Things picked up at the end but the temp continued to fall. Hospiality and catering was up to the usual standard, supperb and the hot soup was exactly what was needed to defrost. An excellent and memorable event.
Post by: wilkyboy on 18 March, 2018, 11:04:54 am
Everyone back and accounted for. A few "hors délais" — "beyond time limit" — but brevets signed and returned (but not validated) in order to prove to the grandchildren that they're not dead yet :)
Definitely a tough day with that bitterly cold wind, the forecast snow in the end was just flurries and nothing serious. Although the final two back on the Pork Pie were still out as the snow started to settle and that was a concern, they rolled in at 11pm with the news that the route had been fine.
One muddy descent on the Pork Pie was exactly where it always is, and advised in the briefing. One short snowy patch on the Spring Dash caused a few to question the rest of the route and B-road it around (and therefore just short on distance, missed the info, and not validated, but they enjoyed the cake at the end). But in the end it was all benign, merely a weather caution (yellow), not a warning (amber).
On reflection of both pre-ride forecast and in-ride actuality it was the correct decision to go ahead with the events. Those who chose not to ride did so because they were not comfortable with the forecast conditions and personal risks — and most spoke of the potential for ice, rather than just the wind, and I rated the cold (temp - windchill) to be the greatest risk with the potential for hypothermia; the ground was too warm from Friday for ice to form until late into the evening. Many riders struggled to sort their brevets and receipts out as they finished until their fingers had warmed through and I had to remove the gloves off one! However, it was remarkable how quickly everyone came back to life with a hot cup of tea — followed with hot soup and finished with some of Mrs WB's homemade cake :thumbsup:
Those who did ride, many found the wind too much for their legs and abandoned safely — on the Pork Pie catching a train back from Oakham or Melton Mowbray; and several on the 100 simply riding back into Cambridge. Roughly
Lantèrne Rouge on the Pork Pie was a Cambridge rider who I've ridden the Extra in 12 hours with (and he had to wait for me on the climbs), so would normally be ahead of the bulge on the Classic, but found himself alone pushing into the wind at 15kph on the return — underlining the difficult windy conditions.
Audax is not an armchair sport, it's definitely not a fair-weather sport. Audax is about going out on your bike to do what you said you were going to do and taking the conditions in your stride. Everyone who rode yesterday I have the deepest respect for — you can wear the badge of starting yesterday's events with pride, as you set out to overcome difficult weather to achieve your aim. Those who had to abandon, you still achieved far more than those who chose not to start, and you can take the experience away with you and hopefully build on it :thumbsup:
And chapeau to everyone who finished — it was humbling to see so many of you strive so hard to achieve that solitary Pork Pie stamp in your brevet, and two points on your palmères, or the grinning mad "yeah" man stamp and no points. It makes me wonder whether the reputation of Mrs WB's cakes at arrivée might've had something to do with it? ;)
My personal thanks to my small team of amazing volunteers who make the reception and hospitality so good for you all — AlexB for turning up super early to sort the parking out with AlexW; BenW for running the desk all day. And my biggest thanks, as always, go to Mrs WB for running hospitality from end to end to look after all you riders so well! Thank you Team! :-* :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 18 March, 2018, 11:11:30 am
Post by: jakemcree on 18 March, 2018, 05:22:40 pm
Glad I did it and thanks for the tea Nick :thumbsup: Chapeau to all that finished.
Post by: stevie63 on 18 March, 2018, 08:18:09 pm
1) It wasn't Spring. It was definitely Winter.
2) It wasn't a Dash, more of a trudge into 30 mph winds
3) It wasn't even a 100 clocking in at 110
4) If I'm really nitpicking it doesn't even start in Cambridge (although in fairness it does go through Cambridge, twice)
However joking aside it was a great day out in challenging conditions, started off by enjoying the pre-ride refreshments. Got away near the front of the group and made good progress through Cambridge and the Shelfords. It started snowing early on but nothing too bad and initially the wind didn't seem too bad. Once the ride turned onto the back roads, not only didn't it get lumpier but in one or 2 places there was slushy ice on the roads. This meant that careful descending was needed on the early hills so no free speed there, also one or 2 blasts of crosswinds pushed the bike around so needed to be real careful there. After 1 hour 45 arrived got to the first control. This worked excellently with coffee and cake already laid out. The lady behind the bar said just help yourself and then pay letting me know what you've had. This meant being able to use the facilities, have a coffee and a piece of cake and being back on the road in just 15 minutes. :thumbsup:
Back on the road, and now for the hardest section of the day. The wind had really picked up now and it took over 2 hours to go 26 miles to the next stop. It was a real slog. At one point the ride turned onto the B1039 and I was tempted to stay on there until Saffron Walden. I think this would have added on a small amount of distance but it would have avoided the steepest climb of the day. But sticking to the route turned left and up towards Littlebury Green, the climb made steeper by the headwind, at points only just about doing 5mph. At Saffron Walden I was tempted to stop at the bike shop but pushed on wanting this section to end. At points the wind was so strong that I would be going downhill at 13 mph whilst pedalling. The combination of cold and too much coffee made me spend the last 40 minutes really needing to go to the loo and made the going seem even slower. Still got to the pub, had some chips and coffee and back on the road for the last bit.
The time inside and off the bike (about 40 minutes) made me feel the cold for the first time on the ride and as the first few miles were still into the wind I thought about popping on an extra layer. However soon it was a left hand turn towards West Wickham and finally a tailwind. This meant relatively quick going back to Cambridge although by the time I got to the Balsham Descent it was more of a crosswind than tailwind so the bike felt twitchy on the downhill. On the route cars had been very good but through Fulbourn it was closs pass after closs pass so I knew I nearly back. Once back in Cambridge any quick progress was broken by having traffic lights every 200 yards, and nearly every set was red. When I went past the station I must admit I was tempted to turn down, call it a day and not worry about the validation. However only another 4 miles so I pushed on enjoying the game of will they won't they cross with the pedestrians.
And then that was it, the finish line in just over 6 hours. Not only that but for the first and no doubt last time I was near the pointy end of the finishers. This meant I could have the lovely Butternut squash soup without any delay. Thank you for the amazing food once again Mrs W. And thank you for putting on the event Nick, it was an interesting day out. To those who did the 200, well you have my upmost respect for taking on such an effort. :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 18 March, 2018, 10:17:20 pm
... Thank you for the amazing food once again Mrs W. And thank you for putting on the event Nick, it was an interesting day out. ...
"Interesting day out" is possibly an understatement ;)
A good write-up, I enjoyed that — and I'm glad you enjoyed yourself! :thumbsup:
Post by: Tomsk on 19 March, 2018, 10:27:23 am
Some help from the wind on the way home, but more snow blasting across, the further south I went. Decided to take the long way round on the airport roads at the end as my nice laney route from Newport was getting icy and white. 139 miles all told. Pretty full-value 200, but lots of quality down-time too.
Thanks again to the Famille Wilky for all the food, hard work... :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 19 March, 2018, 10:31:13 pm
Coldest day on the bike for some years ...
Even putting the bins out at the other side of the car park at arrivée was an expedition worthy of the Arctic! How you all got around the full events, well ... I hope your hands have warmed up by now ;)
Definitely a soup kinda day — I think we got through twice as much soup and four times as much T.E.A. per person as usual! Fortunately we had plenty :)
It was great to see you Tom, and I'm glad you got home okay :thumbsup:
Post by: Tomsk on 19 March, 2018, 10:38:03 pm
It was great to see you Tom, and I'm glad you got home okay :thumbsup:
Glad I didn't ECE the Pork Pie, though ;D
Post by: David S on 20 March, 2018, 06:56:55 am
I awoke to the sight of a light dusting of snow in the garden; spring conspicuous by its absence. With forecasts of further snow and ice, I was apprehensive about embarking on the Cambridge Pork Pie. However, it hadn’t been cancelled; it is the calendar event nearest to my house; and my mileage this year so far had been minimal. With the TAW and the TCR both looming on the horizon, I was keen to start getting some big distances covered in preparation for the summer ahead.
I caught the interview with Nick on the radio while making final preparations to my kit. Talk of the inclement weather, and recommendations for the control’s pies and cheese stuck in my mind.
Leaving home later than planned, I rode to Girton, without factoring in the headwind. Arriving at 8:00, I caught the end of the briefing at the village hall, with around 30 other intrepid souls. Soon after, I went back outside to discover my bike strewn on the tarmac, toppled by a gust. A brake lever was scuffed and twisted - only superficial damage, but not the best start. I fixed and faffed while most others began to depart. Donning my earphones, I cued-up a series podcasts to see me through the duration of the ride. My aim for the day was to ride solo, while trying to maintain an low/aerobic heart rate. This was intended as a means to gauge my current level of fitness after a winter of dormancy. Staring at a LCD and obsessing over a heart rate, in my mind, defeats the social nature of a calendar event. Going with the flow, meeting and chatting to others, and taking in the sights and sounds along the way is my preferred approach. But, I had slightly different intentions for the day ahead.
Heading out via familiar territory, along the silky smooth guided busway with a tailwind made for a pleasant first hour. In the lanes beyond St Ives, I began to notice the strength of the wind. Buffeted by crosswinds at every break in the hedgerow. These winds were supplemented with frequent snow showers - delivering a haze of tiny, abrasive flakes in a sideways trajectory, exfoliating any exposed bits of skin. For once, I was suitably attired, and I was feeling comfortable despite the conditions.
I reached Oundle after about 2 hours - its Georgian architecture and limestone buildings reminiscent of a miniature Bath. An hour later came the magnificent sight of Welland Viaduct, with its countless (82) arches spanning the view ahead. This was followed by a sharp climb, and a cautious descent - heeding the warning given during the briefing about the mud and ice at its base. Despite the sub-zero conditions, this was the only sketchy section of road I encountered throughout the day.
Between Whissendine and Melton Mowbray, the road was single track with the infrequent squeeze of an oncoming car. During one such encounter, as I pulled over onto a jagged verge, I heard and felt a awkward thunk from my back wheel, but this was not followed by the hiss of rapidly escaping air. I’d got away with it, or so I’d thought, until about 1km later the bike went mushy. I came to a halt, and set about the repair. I was travelling light: a small multi-tool, tyre levers, a spare tube, a stash of patches, two pairs of nitrile gloves, and three CO2 cartridges. A few minutes into the repair, I began to become aware of just how cold it was. A well rehearsed routine was becoming a struggle. The lightweight, foldable tyre was flailing in the wind and refused to resemble a circle, while the slightly inflated inner tube was doing its own wild dance. The longer that this continued, the colder and less dexterous my hands became, and I was beginning to doubt my ability to complete the task in hand. Eventually, I managed to reunite the unwieldy trinity (tyre, tube, and rim), and was grateful for the ease and immediacy of the CO2 inflator. Back on the road, I reached Melton Mowbray around 10 minutes later, and looked for the nearest bike shop to buy a spare tube, preempting similar grief on the return leg.
The lure of town’s cafes was strong, but I resisted their charms. Comfort is relative. Although it was cold, I wasn’t uncomfortable, and I didn’t desire the type of re-calibration which would inevitably occur when stepping out of a warm cafe to return to a baltic bike. So I treated myself to a cereal bar in the foyer of Melton Mowbray’s Halfords, and set-off back to Cambridge.
Out of the town, the route quickly returned to quiet country lanes, with lots of short climbs and expansive views of rolling countryside. Dark clouds loomed ominously in the distance, and it was only a matter of time before I encountered the next wave of icy exfoliant. The wind was relentless throughout, with branch-strewn roads becoming a recurring sight.
At around 3pm Welland Viaduct came back into view, and not long after I made a quick stop in Barnwell to refill my bidon with Yazoo. Sugar-infused-milk and cereal bars constituted my fuel of choice for this ride. On reflection, this was probably not the best nutrition strategy, as I was on the fringes of the bonk when I finally reached Girton, shortly after 6pm. I was greeted with the same warm welcome from Nick and Ewa as I remembered from last year. Throughout the day, I reminded myself that no matter how bad it got, at the end of it all there would be soup, cake, tea, and conversation - and it didn’t disappoint!
Thank you Nick, Ewa, Ben for bringing this together again, and for your fantastic hospitality.
Post by: nigeld on 20 March, 2018, 08:46:55 am
https://ctccambridge.org.uk/blog/2018/03/17-mar-cambridge-pork-pie-200km-audax
Nigel
Post by: johnnystorm on 22 March, 2018, 09:48:25 pm
Another write up here: https://advntr.cc/2018/03/snow-ice-and-pork-pies/
Post by: wilkyboy on 24 March, 2018, 07:28:19 pm
The report is a bit more detailed than I posted either here or on Facebook, and it includes the photos I posted to Facebook and I know not everyone lurks there.
Post by: Martin on 26 February, 2019, 08:18:11 pm
shortest ECE route is the A10, don't think so; would be glad for any alternative suggestions (i used the London to Cambridge route a couple of years ago to get to Duxford, very nice)
Post by: ElyDave on 26 February, 2019, 08:25:42 pm
Post by: psyclist on 26 February, 2019, 09:08:47 pm
shortest ECE route is the A10, don't think so; would be glad for any alternative suggestions (i used the London to Cambridge route a couple of years ago to get to Duxford, very nice)
If the weather is not too atrocious, I plan to ECE from Bishop's Stortford. I go up to Duxford, and then Great Shelford, Trumpington, through the centre of Cambridge and out to Girton.
Another option for you would be to follow the Dunwich Dynamo route to Finchingfield, then possibly hook up with the Cambridge Autumnal route to Girton.
Post by: wilkyboy on 26 February, 2019, 10:04:34 pm
Entered the Spring Dash (I'm veggie so Pork Pies don't float my boat!); ECE'ing back to That London. Been a long time since I've been to Cambridge (4 years in fact)
shortest ECE route is the A10, don't think so; would be glad for any alternative suggestions (i used the London to Cambridge route a couple of years ago to get to Duxford, very nice)
Plenty of interesting options — definitely NOT the A10, but the old A10 — the B1368 — is a nice-enough, get-yer-head-down route into London via Ware. Another option is the reverse of LEL stage 1, or indeed the final 1.5 stages of LEL, depending on where you want to end up. There are other routes. PM me if you'd like more options :thumbsup:
Post by: drossall on 26 February, 2019, 10:12:33 pm
Post by: Martin on 26 February, 2019, 10:17:14 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 26 February, 2019, 10:25:41 pm
This year, The Cambridge Pork Pie (https://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-cambridge-pork-pie-200/2019/) is a PBP qualifier 200. It's already pretty well represented with entries, but we've set a higher limit than usual and so there's still plenty of space — we're about two-thirds full. The classic route is still the one — Girton, Oundle, Hills, Melton Mowbray, Stiffer Hills, The Viaduct, downhill to Oundle, flat 50km back to Girton along the fairy-lit Busway :thumbsup:
As usual just one control in Melton Mowbray, although most riders will choose to take a break in Oundle, or Oakham, or both on the way there, and then in Oundle or Huntingdon on the way home. I'll be checking the route on Saturday.
And as per the last couple of years, you will have the option of the Pork Pie Extra route. This will be the same as last year — so few people rode in the conditions that it's still fresh, waiting for you — 10 bonus kilometres and mooore hills, plus all the stiffer hills in reverse :demon: Still just the one control in Melton Mowbray. Decide on the day which route you'd like to follow and let Big Junior Wilkyboy know on the desk which you followed for Extra kudos ;)
The Cambridge Spring Dash 100 will also be running. This year the Dash won't be visiting the Tally Ho pub in Barkway, due to an unfortunate prior booking — the landlady was disappointed she couldn't accommodate us this year and is looking forward to trying again next year. So there's a slight change to the first stage, which is quite nice. Instead, we're running a village hall control in Meesden in place of the info control — Big Junior Wilkyboy and I will hoss up there after clearing the main hall and we'll serve you tea and coffee, and light nibbles, before heading back to Girton to set up for the return of the quick 100 riders. There is still The White Horse Inn in Withersfield to look forward to for lunch, plus an optional stop at Bicicletta café con vélo midway in Saffron Walden as you pass through, both commercial :thumbsup:
Enter The Cambridge Pork Pie 200 here (https://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-cambridge-pork-pie-200/2019/); or The Cambridge Spring Dash 100 (https://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-cambridge-spring-dash-100/2019/) here.
And, of course, Mrs WB will be looking after everyone again at arrivée — she's looking forward to seeing you all :) :thumbsup:
Post by: Martin on 26 February, 2019, 10:52:55 pm
Post by: ElyDave on 27 February, 2019, 05:47:33 am
Post by: jiberjaber on 27 February, 2019, 10:17:06 am
Still a little while away yet though...
Post by: Martin on 27 February, 2019, 10:59:58 am
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29396512
It's 8km from Cambridge Notwork Rail to the start so you only need to go as far South as Cheshunt to make it 200 ;) and a super bargain £8.60 return from That London :thumbsup:
Post by: jiberjaber on 27 February, 2019, 11:05:38 am
Wilkyboy sent me this very nice route which I'm planning to use back:thumbsup:
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29396512
It's 8km from Cambridge Notwork Rail to the start so you only need to go as far South as Cheshunt to make it 200 ;) and a super bargain £8.60 return from That London :thumbsup:
It's 88ish km out to Girton for me, then with the return to Cambs stn plus event dist I think I get to >200 OK it's teh faff of 25km through London at the other end which is casting a shadow at the moment.... still some more thinking to do :)
Post by: Nik's Nick on 28 February, 2019, 09:55:16 am
(sorry Nick, couldn't resist)
Post by: psyclist on 28 February, 2019, 11:04:21 am
Wilkyboy sent me this very nice route which I'm planning to use back
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29396512
That looks good. The road just south of the M25 through Sewardstone is horrible (fast cars and narrow), but at the time you'll be riding it that should be very quiet.
From Girton to the bit near Saffron Walden is my route also, but then I carry on down to Bishop's Stortford rather than veering west onto the more pleasant lanes.
Post by: wilkyboy on 03 March, 2019, 02:41:07 pm
I've tweaked the route ever-so slightly after Sawtry to take the lane from Glatton, rather than the mainroad, up the hill. It's a nice change, albeit inconsequential in the scheme of things, as both old and new are the same distance and the same climb.
There are some major roadworks after Oundle on the return — they are installing traffic lights on the A605, which will be nice when done, but was bloody 'orrible yesterday. No worries, I've tweaked the route to follow the shared-use path on the right-hand side, which neatly routes around the road works and beats the lights, which take an absolute age, due to the scale of the works.
The routesheet and GPS files have been updated and are available from the website here — https://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-cambridge-pork-pie-200/2019/ (https://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-cambridge-pork-pie-200/2019/).
Hopefully I'll get to ride the Spring Dash as a DIY in the week sometime. That's all on roads I ride regularly anyway, so much less problematic if I don't.
As always, email me if you have any questions.
Ride report on Strava here, if you're interested: https://www.strava.com/activities/2188544144 (https://www.strava.com/activities/2188544144)
Post by: ElyDave on 03 March, 2019, 02:58:00 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 03 March, 2019, 04:05:21 pm
Even so, the Pork Pie is nearly full — just 30 or so spaces left, which isn't many considering how many people entered in the last two days alone. So if you're dithering, get your entry in to avoid disappointment! The weather's looking like a nice early-spring day, with a bit of a westerly breeze to blow you back to Cambridge :thumbsup:
The Spring Dash still has plenty of space — a good crowd already, but we can take more. However, you might need to pedal downhill back to Cambridge, but at least the lumpy middle bit should be tailwind-happy ;)
Post by: Phil W on 03 March, 2019, 06:11:35 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 03 March, 2019, 06:27:42 pm
Do the road works start at the A605 or before that?
After you leave Oundle on the return, you drop down through the Nene Valley and back up to the A605 (~3km). It's the whole junction with the A605 that's being reconfigured, the road works start about 150m BEFORE the junction, i.e. just before Barnwell Road drops down to the junction.
The problem is that the works extend another 400m AFTER the junction, and that is a LONG way to TT with a queue of cars on your back and the traffic facing you being given a green light in the meantime, especially after 150km, and there is nowhere to hide — the white line on the left is the limit of the road and NOT a cycle lane, and there's a line of cones all the way down the centreline.
Taking the shared-use path, you can wave at all the queuing motorists and cross in relative safety at the other end, while beating the lights anyway, as it's a four-way sequence with something like 600m passage from one end to the other on the main road, so the wait is interminable, whereas the shared use path you can just switch over and carry on.
I rarely recommend cycle-specific infrastructure over just riding on the road, but this is one of those times I think it's a Good Idea, for this year at least.
Post by: alotronic on 03 March, 2019, 10:42:49 pm
Is the extra available with a GPS track? Or should I email? I fancy a bit of hill training and a stretchy distance... if the weather is decent :-)
Post by: wilkyboy on 03 March, 2019, 10:54:25 pm
Hey Wilkyboy
Is the extra available with a GPS track? Or should I email? I fancy a bit of hill training and a stretchy distance... if the weather is decent :-)
It's on the list to update the page, but it's basically the same as last year, since only four people rode it in the bitterly bitter cold. However, I need to update the routesheet and GPS files for the diversion after Oundle. There might be another hill to add, too ...
I'll let you know when it's done.
ps. The weather's currently forecast to be quite summery! Or so I'd like to believe ;)
Post by: wilkyboy on 06 March, 2019, 10:29:11 pm
The routesheets and GPS files are all up-to-date on the website.
It's all about to get a bit [more] bonkers here — we'll be starting test-bakes shortly, and it's the toughest job ... but somebody's gotta do it ;D :thumbsup:
Post by: yanto on 07 March, 2019, 07:37:44 am
Taking the shared-use path, you can wave at all the queuing motorists and cross in relative safety at the other end, while beating the lights anyway, as it's a four-way sequence with something like 600m passage from one end to the other on the main road, so the wait is interminable, whereas the shared use path you can just switch over and carry on.
I rarely recommend cycle-specific infrastructure over just riding on the road, but this is one of those times I think it's a Good Idea, for this year at least.
Nick, I've looked on street view and it's showing that the path you suggest as just that and very narrow (not suitable for a trike), has it been upgraded since that image was captured to a proper signposted shared use path?
Ian
Post by: Phil W on 07 March, 2019, 08:43:35 am
Taking the shared-use path, you can wave at all the queuing motorists and cross in relative safety at the other end, while beating the lights anyway, as it's a four-way sequence with something like 600m passage from one end to the other on the main road, so the wait is interminable, whereas the shared use path you can just switch over and carry on.
I rarely recommend cycle-specific infrastructure over just riding on the road, but this is one of those times I think it's a Good Idea, for this year at least.
Nick, I've looked on street view and it's showing that the path you suggest as just that and very narrow (not suitable for a trike), has it been upgraded since that image was captured to a proper signposted shared use path?
Ian
Ian I have plotted an alternate exit from Oundle that avoids all the road works on the return and only adds about 800m (depending on what point you split from Nick's official route). It rejoins Nick's official return route about 14km further on. PM me if interested.
Post by: wilkyboy on 07 March, 2019, 09:48:16 am
Post by: yanto on 07 March, 2019, 03:32:15 pm
The shared-use path has been upgraded since StreetView went by — StreetView is about 10 years out of date on that section.
I suspected as much, good to know, thank you :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 07 March, 2019, 11:29:59 pm
An extra few hundred metres of climb and 10km further — but no additional time, still just 13-odd hours. A bit of variety for those who've already ridden the Classic route, or a bit of a challenge for the fitter riders on the start line. You don't need to register, just ride the route on the day that you feel you've got the legs for — but do let Ben know on the desk if you did ride the Extra for a bit of extra kudos :)
Post by: alotronic on 08 March, 2019, 02:12:39 pm
A
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 11:21:34 am
Actually, we always lay on something vegan and GF for those who need the option, regardless of whether Al's riding or not. And most of what we provide at arrivée is vegetarian, too — certainly everything that's cooked and baked by us is 8)
On a wider note, if anyone does have any dietary related questions, do pop me an email, usual address. Or ask the wonderful Ewa at arrivée, who will be looking after you all on the day :thumbsup:
Post by: rob on 11 March, 2019, 01:31:01 pm
Just for you, Al, we're laying on GF caik ;)
Actually, we always lay on something vegan and GF for those who need the option, regardless of whether Al's riding or not. And most of what we provide at arrivée is vegetarian, too — certainly everything that's cooked and baked by us is 8)
On a wider note, if anyone does have any dietary related questions, do pop me an email, usual address. Or ask the wonderful Ewa at arrivée, who will be looking after you all on the day :thumbsup:
Is the posh cake stand coming out again ?
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 03:32:59 pm
We're just discussing what to put on/in it right now ;)
Post by: Phil W on 11 March, 2019, 06:52:43 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 07:16:20 pm
I did mention quenelles of ice cream and you should've seen the death-ray stare I got in return :demon: ;D
Post by: yanto on 11 March, 2019, 07:22:47 pm
WASH YOUR MOUTH OUT, PHIL!!! >:(
I did mention quenelles of ice cream and you should've seen the death-ray stare I got in return :demon: ;D
Creme Anglaise then, if custard is uncouth, please :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 07:26:23 pm
Post by: yanto on 11 March, 2019, 09:03:44 pm
Have I redeemed myself O:-)?
Post by: ElyDave on 11 March, 2019, 09:06:07 pm
No. The answer is no. Feel free to ask Ewa on the day for some, but you'll probably find yourself out on yer ear — she can get quite feisty about these things ... she just did ::-) :P
I'm with Ewa on this, it's just pollution.
Now if she happens to be doing a nice rhubarb crumble and ice cream...
Post by: yanto on 11 March, 2019, 09:08:03 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 09:20:39 pm
Hot crumble should have both cold custard AND ice cream, AND then cream drizzled over the top ;)
Post by: Phil W on 11 March, 2019, 09:29:13 pm
Post by: Phil W on 11 March, 2019, 09:29:58 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 09:30:14 pm
Post by: Phil W on 11 March, 2019, 09:31:57 pm
Post by: jiberjaber on 11 March, 2019, 09:32:47 pm
(I'm not sure I'm going to make it (again) this year :'( )
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 09:33:17 pm
Post by: Phil W on 11 March, 2019, 09:34:00 pm
Post by: Phil W on 11 March, 2019, 09:35:14 pm
What has strawberry pie got to do with this?!! You said raspberry pie before! Much prefers rasps to strawbs.
Sorry I grabbed an extra slice of that since it is also on your menu.
Post by: wilkyboy on 11 March, 2019, 10:09:26 pm
Post by: ElyDave on 11 March, 2019, 10:10:38 pm
Post by: Martin on 12 March, 2019, 12:08:08 pm
(https://i1.wp.com/goplaylisten.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/oliver-please-sir.jpg)
Post by: wilkyboy on 12 March, 2019, 12:11:56 pm
You'll have the choice of a couple of soup/stew-type recipes, tried-and-tested and very popular. Both if you're feeling peckish and not in the mood for caik. And there will also be bread rolls for the dipping thereof, or for making butties. All vegetarian, much of it vegan.
As a confirmed ECE-rider, if you have any special requests, let me know (email) and I'll see what we can do.
FWIW, I'm not particularly a fan of caik in the middle of a ride either. I much prefer a bowl of soup ... for most riders, of course, Ewa's caik comes at the end of their ride.
Post by: Martin on 12 March, 2019, 12:15:57 pm
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 13 March, 2019, 07:47:06 am
Post by: Slimline Saxon on 13 March, 2019, 09:51:06 am
Post by: wilkyboy on 13 March, 2019, 09:53:49 am
Post by: Phil W on 14 March, 2019, 08:47:09 am
Post by: wilkyboy on 14 March, 2019, 09:06:26 am
You could have some very hungry cyclists by the time we get back through the forecast weather. Must pack some dry warm clothes to change into at Arrivee.
The MetOffice and the Beeb disagree on what to expect. I'm going with the MetOffice, which is for a bit of an annoying crosswind and showers at some point.
We always aim that the last rider back will get as good as the first :thumbsup:
We will certainly have enough to take the edge off and get people going again.
Post by: rob on 14 March, 2019, 10:02:26 am
Post by: Martin on 14 March, 2019, 12:41:34 pm
Post by: psyclist on 14 March, 2019, 01:29:19 pm
ponders return ECE to Kings Lynn....)
That's a good idea. I'm going to persevere with the ride south to Bishop's Stortford, but riding with the wind sounds very sensible.
Post by: yanto on 14 March, 2019, 01:32:28 pm
Post by: Phil W on 14 March, 2019, 09:59:15 pm
Post by: yanto on 15 March, 2019, 05:54:27 am
I would have thought you'd be the least affected compared to road bikes. Certainly on my quasi low racer the winds don't affect it sideways so much but I guess you have a more solid area for the wind to hit sideways on. I'll be on my road bike Saturday but if it was more Fen like I'd defo be on my recumbent.
The problem is just side wind, as a result of slab sides and the position of the centre of pressure v centre of gravity. A sudden side hit say at a gap in a hedge can knock me a full lane width, although putting the "pants" on (spats in UK) so covering the front wheel wells does reduce is quite a bit but reduces turning circle.
Looking at forecast though there is no warning of wind where we're going (ignoring the BBC which gets it's data/forecast from Meteo France), just a very blustery day ;D
Post by: ElyDave on 15 March, 2019, 07:09:27 am
I got caught in a big thunderstorm in the fens on the cruzbike, wind first before the rain, went from nothing to throwing me over the other side of the road in the space of about 500m. Unpleasant, risky, hyper vigilance required due to cars still driving past like twats. Unfortunately nowhere to shelter.
Post by: Phil W on 15 March, 2019, 06:27:03 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 15 March, 2019, 11:35:17 pm
Do you have the hall all day?. Thinking of leaving some warm gear in the hall to put on when I get back.
We can leave some stuff in the hall — the martial arts group won't touch it. If it needs to be more secure then it will go into the back of the car.
Post by: yanto on 16 March, 2019, 06:31:14 pm
As for the ride, it had many challenging aspects, notably WIND! Sometimes making it down right bloody scary, I hope all who started finish, good to meet familiar faces again, mutual friends and make new acquaintances.
Post by: ElyDave on 16 March, 2019, 06:59:32 pm
That run down towards Fulbourn was pretty hairy in places with the crosswind, otherwise it seemed less dramatic than the forecast suggested. Soup and cake superb as always
Thanks team Nick
Post by: Martin on 16 March, 2019, 08:38:19 pm
(https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjF1KCVmonhAhVU8OAKHTyzA-EQjRx6BAgBEAU&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.edp24.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fking-lynn-s-fantastic-new-light-show-1-4014275&psig=AOvVaw2p5UQ065pvCAQ1oQUBl04g&ust=1552913075099185)
Excellent event and TLC WB!
Loved the stew / soup based thing at the finish and glass CAIK cabinet. And the breakfast and coffee stops. Please pass on my thanks to ] your team
Post by: MsG on 16 March, 2019, 09:27:33 pm
ElyDave - presume we met on the train from Ely then? :)
Possibly Martin too?
Agree, the Fulbourn crosswinds were a bit hairy - Fenland seems to have visited south Cambs for the day.
Post by: rob on 16 March, 2019, 09:39:42 pm
Post by: Phil W on 16 March, 2019, 10:46:58 pm
My arms are knackered from trying to keep the bike upright against some of the nastiest cross winds and gusts I have encountered for some time.
Thanks to Ewa and Nick's sons for the hospitality and arranging some characterful weather. Nice to catch up with a few familiar faces, and keep passing and repassing with other riders during the ride, or shout hi in passing. Fortunately Yanto was heading uphill when we passed so he didn't pass at warp factor 9. That is my first PBP qualifier in the bank.
Lucky the rain held off till the very end.
Post by: psyclist on 17 March, 2019, 10:02:00 am
All food at the arrivee was spot-on, but especially the chocolate and guiness cake. Many thanks to Ewa, and to Nick, Ben and other helpers for making the whole occasion so enjoyable.
And then there was the wind ...
Post by: MarkoftheShire on 17 March, 2019, 03:44:42 pm
To all those who rode yesterday I think it would be fair to say we left it all on the road ...
Post by: alotronic on 17 March, 2019, 05:06:25 pm
Post by: rob on 17 March, 2019, 06:11:23 pm
Battered.
Bit more with it today.
I had switched to my commuter off the back of the wet and windy forecast. It has more robust tyres and I’m less bothered about getting it dirty.
I had decided to go in the 8am group which gave time for an extra coffee. On leaving, paranoia crept in and I thought my rear tyre was soft so I popped back and put some more air in using wilkyboy’s handy track pump. This left me dead last on the road, so I pushed the pace a bit sticking my heart rate in the right zone. I popped in and out of small groups along the busway and then out into fenland. This is where the crosswind started to get a bit interesting. Being a bit of a lightweight it was chucking me sideward on the exposed sections and I felt a bit uncomfortable in places.
Just before Oundle the back of the bike got a bit rattly and I noticed the mudguard bracket had sheared at the brake bridge. I faffed for a little while with a zip tie but couldn’t stop the tyre from rubbing. After a few more minutes I took the guard off completely. I wasted probably 20 minutes on that and then set off again. I was carrying enough food and water so pushed through Oundle and into the rolling Rutland countryside. I hadn’t ridden through there for years and the roads were pretty and quite rolling.
Being a bit behind where I wanted to be I bought some water and a coffee from the mobile cafe in the square and then set off back. It then got really quite rolling and felt more windy. I was feeling OK and still feeding from my top tube bag. I found the steeper climbs quite hard and I couldn’t pull on the bars as much as I wanted to get the fixed moving. I resorted to walking on just one climb before Seaton.
I didn’t stop in Oundle and picked up some tailwind sections here and there as I headed back to the busway. I hadn’t seen another rider in ages but picked up someone who had had 5 fairy visits and turned back early.
I got in just before 18:00 but felt really rough. I find in windy conditions I grip the bars too much which results in sore forearms but I also forget to drink. Also, it was only at the finish that I realised it hadn’t rained all day, despite going a bit grey a few times.
I rectified this with a load of squash and coffee along with soup, cheese rolls and cake.
Thanks to Wilkyboy and family for putting these events on.
Post by: Martin on 17 March, 2019, 06:26:58 pm
ECE's all present and correct from everyone else :thumbsup:
Post by: bhoot on 17 March, 2019, 09:24:13 pm
Post by: Martin on 17 March, 2019, 11:10:13 pm
The hoots had a train ride back to London! We weren't aiming to extend to 300km, so the trip northwards in the morning was plenty enough. As it happened it wasn't a quick journey on the train as apparently plastic sheeting had blown onto the overhead wires, and we proceeded very slowly south of Cheshunt, with the journey eventually taking two hours!
Sorry just checking my ECE entries; good call indeed!
I can recommend Kings Lynn station; it's all done up in old BR Eastern Region livery with platform signs and even ticket machines. No Class 47s any more though.
Post by: ElyDave on 18 March, 2019, 05:51:03 am
Post by: Slimline Saxon on 18 March, 2019, 05:24:52 pm
Anyway, the Big Saxon riding into wind, uphill on a heavy steel bike and short of distance training was always going to be difficult. Got to Meesden at 12 noon, met the unfortunate rider who crashed and injured his collarbone/shoulder, hopefully he will be ok. Left as Ewa's sister arrived in the Lanterne Rouge position, having taken a detour. By now the back was aching, flew down the valley to Wendens Ambo and decided the train was the best option, although still thinking I could have made the time. Three minutes later I was on the way to Cambridge and rode back through the City Centre to Girton
As it turns out I was wrong on time and therefore took the right decision as I would have hurt myself and been out of time anyway. The main reason I came was to support Nick and Ewa as i always try to do, and of course to eat cake, I had the cranberry and pistachio options, Ewa sent me home with the Guinness and carrot cake for my wife, who is half Irish and ate the Guinness on St Patrick's Day,saying how wonderful the cakes were and does Ewa do quiches?
Like many riders on Saturday I ache in many places from trying to stay upright, but more miles in the legs and back for Spring in South Suffolk on Saturday, less wind and I will get the carbon out for speed.
Thanks again to team Wilkyboy for a grand day out.
Post by: ElyDave on 19 March, 2019, 06:14:12 am
First Audax today and really enjoyed it. Great meeting people, fab cake. Thank you Nick, Ewa and Ben.
ElyDave - presume we met on the train from Ely then? :)
Possibly Martin too?
Agree, the Fulbourn crosswinds were a bit hairy - Fenland seems to have visited south Cambs for the day.
Yes, that was me, good to see you made it round and enjoyed it.
Arms and neck very much aching for me on Sunday/Monday but in a good way.
Post by: djrikki on 19 March, 2019, 07:02:47 am
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpHGvzn2uUo
Post by: Grimrod on 19 March, 2019, 01:35:34 pm
On the Cambridge Audax website I found all the information I needed; a testament to excellent organisation and communication. Nick's assessment of what to expect (communicated through e-mails and briefing) was spot-on, so the arm-wrenching crosswinds on the last leg didn't take me by surprise.
A very sincere thank you to Nick, Ewa, Ben and his brother for their hard work, warm hospitality, and cakes to die for!
Post by: caferaca on 19 March, 2019, 02:18:25 pm
Cheers, and hopefully see some of you in future events,
Rick
Post by: JonJo on 20 March, 2019, 09:07:28 am
A quick write up on accidentally doing the Extra and moody, solo rides.... https://audaxery.wordpress.com/2019/03/17/stormy-weather/ (https://audaxery.wordpress.com/2019/03/17/stormy-weather/)
Thanks for the write up. Wise words for the fast lads.
Post by: Chris S on 20 March, 2019, 10:53:28 am
A quick write up on accidentally doing the Extra and moody, solo rides.... https://audaxery.wordpress.com/2019/03/17/stormy-weather/ (https://audaxery.wordpress.com/2019/03/17/stormy-weather/)
Thanks for the write up. Wise words for the fast lads.
+1. That climb away from Launde Abbey is a Git.
Post by: Martin on 20 March, 2019, 09:21:55 pm
and that also goes out to all the other organisers who have created these events that are so popular and accessible to all from wherever they ride (to/from or both; and also the other non ECE riders)
Post by: alotronic on 21 March, 2019, 09:50:58 am
I'd just like to add that having admin'd them for several years it was great to be a part of the East Anglian ECE Massive :thumbsup:
and that also goes out to all the other organisers who have created these events that are so popular and accessible to all from wherever they ride (to/from or both; and also the other non ECE riders)
Nice work Martin, are the ACME posse particularity big in the ECE world - should we lobby for an award ;-)
Post by: Martin on 21 March, 2019, 11:03:53 am
I'd just like to add that having admin'd them for several years it was great to be a part of the East Anglian ECE Massive :thumbsup:
and that also goes out to all the other organisers who have created these events that are so popular and accessible to all from wherever they ride (to/from or both; and also the other non ECE riders)
Nice work Martin, are the ACME posse particularity big in the ECE world - should we lobby for an award ;-)
and ACH plus a few local clubs yes, I think Tomsk helps a lot with the winter series of 100s, although there are many others like the Kelvedon Oyster Knights Templar (on my list, I'm very into that Holy Blood stuff) Braziers Run etc
Have a look here
http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=ECE01
Post by: jiberjaber on 21 March, 2019, 12:26:00 pm
I'd just like to add that having admin'd them for several years it was great to be a part of the East Anglian ECE Massive :thumbsup:
and that also goes out to all the other organisers who have created these events that are so popular and accessible to all from wherever they ride (to/from or both; and also the other non ECE riders)
Nice work Martin, are the ACME posse particularity big in the ECE world - should we lobby for an award ;-)
and ACH plus a few local clubs yes, I think Tomsk helps a lot with the winter series of 100s, although there are many others like the Kelvedon Oyster Knights Templar (on my list, I'm very into that Holy Blood stuff) Braziers Run etc
Have a look here
http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=ECE01
Thanks for that Martin - with a quick bit of excel magic here's the top 10. (72% of the 132 ECEs overall!)
| AudaxClubMid-Essex 36 NO CLUB 17 AudaxClubHackney 14 AudaxClubPortsmouth 7 CCSudburySuffolk 5 FourCornersAudax 5 CambridgeAudaxCTC 3 CambridgeCC 3 LeicesterForestCC 3 HertfordshireWhsCTC 3 |
Post by: Martin on 21 March, 2019, 12:34:05 pm
http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=ECER01
Post by: bhoot on 21 March, 2019, 01:42:37 pm
and the really keen riders extending to 300 and above....or in our case, the riders that couldn't get home by train due to onset of the Christmas engineering works!
Post by: jiberjaber on 21 March, 2019, 02:31:40 pm
and the really keen riders extending to 300 and above
http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=ECER01
"Keen" is one word for them! LOL (Top 10)
FourCornersAudax 9
AudaxClubMid-Essex 4
AudaxClubHackney 3
AudaxClubBristol 3
TeamMKMilton 3
VC167 3
CambridgeCC 2
WestSuffolkWhs 2
NorthHampshireRC 1
VC167CTC 1
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 21 March, 2019, 02:35:32 pm
Post by: alotronic on 21 March, 2019, 03:34:39 pm
I'd just like to add that having admin'd them for several years it was great to be a part of the East Anglian ECE Massive :thumbsup:
and that also goes out to all the other organisers who have created these events that are so popular and accessible to all from wherever they ride (to/from or both; and also the other non ECE riders)
Nice work Martin, are the ACME posse particularity big in the ECE world - should we lobby for an award ;-)
and ACH plus a few local clubs yes, I think Tomsk helps a lot with the winter series of 100s, although there are many others like the Kelvedon Oyster Knights Templar (on my list, I'm very into that Holy Blood stuff) Braziers Run etc
Have a look here
http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=ECE01
Thanks for that Martin - with a quick bit of excel magic here's the top 10. (72% of the 132 ECEs overall!)
AudaxClubMid-Essex 36
NO CLUB 17
AudaxClubHackney 14
AudaxClubPortsmouth 7
CCSudburySuffolk 5
FourCornersAudax 5
CambridgeAudaxCTC 3
CambridgeCC 3
LeicesterForestCC 3
HertfordshireWhsCTC 3
So yes then, AUK should have an ECE award based on number of ECEs. Or maybe Tomsk can just fashion an award out of chocolate bars or twigs for us.
Post by: Martin on 21 March, 2019, 04:43:35 pm
I think ECE's should be subject to the 50% rule as they are easier than perms, you don't get CAIK on perms ;)
Post by: psyclist on 21 March, 2019, 05:07:16 pm
I think ECE's should be subject to the 50% rule as they are easier than perms, you don't get CAIK on perms ;)
ECEs 'can' be easier, but they can also be more challenging, depending upon one's desire for additional AAA points, for example.
Post by: jiberjaber on 21 March, 2019, 08:06:22 pm
Another ACME award for the ceremony sounds like a grand idea!I'd just like to add that having admin'd them for several years it was great to be a part of the East Anglian ECE Massive
and that also goes out to all the other organisers who have created these events that are so popular and accessible to all from wherever they ride (to/from or both; and also the other non ECE riders)
Nice work Martin, are the ACME posse particularity big in the ECE world - should we lobby for an award ;-)
and ACH plus a few local clubs yes, I think Tomsk helps a lot with the winter series of 100s, although there are many others like the Kelvedon Oyster Knights Templar (on my list, I'm very into that Holy Blood stuff) Braziers Run etc
Have a look here
http://www.aukweb.net/results/detail/this/listevent/?Ride=ECE01
Thanks for that Martin - with a quick bit of excel magic here's the top 10. (72% of the 132 ECEs overall!)
AudaxClubMid-Essex 36
NO CLUB 17
AudaxClubHackney 14
AudaxClubPortsmouth 7
CCSudburySuffolk 5
FourCornersAudax 5
CambridgeAudaxCTC 3
CambridgeCC 3
LeicesterForestCC 3
HertfordshireWhsCTC 3
So yes then, AUK should have an ECE award based on number of ECEs. Or maybe Tomsk can just fashion an award out of chocolate bars or twigs for us.
Post by: wilkyboy on 26 March, 2019, 11:42:15 pm
Crikey, sorting the brevets takes a while — making sure everything's correct and everyone's accounted for, and that the correct times are entered against the correct riders, and that Validation Secretary's going to receive everything in the correct order (for the Pork Pie, at least).
The weather on the day was a stiff, gusty crosswind for most of the way, blowing at about 30mph and gusting to 45mph. The Dashers enjoyed a block tailwind for a 40km stretch, but then turned into a brutal, exposed crosswind for the return to Cambridge. Many riders complained of aching arms and shoulders at the finish, as they'd been wrestling their bikes all day past every gate opening and missing hedge. Quite a few riders abandoned because the constant battering had drained their legs, and a few abandoned because they were unable to stop themselves being blown sideways out of position.
No wind-related injuries to report, apart from one chap who stopped to take a photo and was promptly toppled over while standing over his bike :facepalm: No harm done; nor to the rider :P
Okay, the Pork Pie first: 103 starters, 89 finishers, 14 DNF. 5 people rode the Extra Slice, and the first back was fifth or sixth back overall — bravo!
And the Spring Dash: 76 starters, 68 finishers, 8 DNF, of which three were hor délais.
Bravo to everyone who started — chapeau to everyone who finished :thumbsup: I was quite happy that the wind on the helpers' ride was only pushing 20mph with 30mph gusts, but I still felt battered by the end of my ride a fortnight prior.
The thing about a difficult day on the bike is that those are the rides you remember best, and I think a lot of riders will remember this Pork Pie and Spring Dash for some time to come — along with last year's Big Freeze, we're getting an unenviable weather-related reputation ::-)
Longer write-up and photos to follow when RL allows. In the meantime, I'll just leave this here: The Capitals of East Anglia 300 is on 27 April! (https://www.camaudax.uk/rides/the-capitals-of-east-anglia-300/2019/) ;D
Post by: Phil W on 27 March, 2019, 08:29:47 pm
Post by: wilkyboy on 27 March, 2019, 08:32:09 pm
See you on the 27th for my next PBP qualifier. If you can book light winds this time, that would be nice.
I'll see whether they have any nor'easterly on the shelf to blow you home, just for you, Phil :thumbsup: :P
TBH, it would be nice to have a wind-free event for a change ::-)