Post by: Mad Jack on 14 January, 2014, 10:30:07 pm
A Classic Hilly Audax AAA event taking on some of the best Hills in East Sussex. Great scenery, challenging route unspoilt Sussex countryside. Mad Jack (John Fuller) was an eccentric 1800’s MP, who made numerous Obelisks/ follies around Brightling. These include the Needle, the Sugar Loaf, Tower and his Tomb in Brightling Church yard. Highlights on the ride include- Penhurst Lane, Batemans (National Trust) (home of Rudyard Kipling), Willingford Lane- up to Brightling Needle (cat 2 climb), Brede Lane, Doleham Halt, Peter James Lane, Crazy Lane, plus more.
In Battle, you pass the spot where King Harold made his last stand and lost to William the conqueror (aka the b***ard!). Stop there a while and imagine back to 1066.
Hot drinks and various snacks at the start included. Start and finish in Hailsham. Cafe controls (x3) in Battle-Skarlets Café. Enter early to avoid disappointment! No entries on the line. An Audax Altitude qualifying event (AAA) & qualifying ride for Brevet des Grimpeurs du Sud. .
John was a pioneer within Audax and rode the frist and second LEL, he passed away 11 years ago this year.
Entry forms/online entries (Pay pal) AUK website
Thank you for all your entries to date, closing date 12/2/2020
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/20-85/
Post by: JossW on 15 January, 2014, 01:17:33 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 16 January, 2014, 10:11:26 pm
Popped my audax cherry on this ride last year and another 4 hilly ones led to a Grimpeur du Sud badge. A great route. Little did I know what it would start (currently suffering RRTY anxiety - 3 down but bad weather predicted for January's ride this weekend..).
Don't look at me re: your cherry, not guilty me lord! :-* But well done and keep it up ;D
OK just a quick note for non members using pay pal, please only hit the pay button once! As the more times you hit the button the more times you pay and enter. Sorry but if I have to refund you, then you have to incur the pay pal fees ::-)
Post by: chrisonabike on 21 January, 2014, 04:53:35 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 24 January, 2014, 08:26:26 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 25 January, 2014, 06:19:59 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 27 January, 2014, 06:41:04 pm
Non members PLEASE only hit the pay pal button once if it's just for you, AP hit the button SEVEN times, unless there's seven of him!!
Calm down dear its only a bike ride ;D
Post by: Mad Jack on 27 January, 2014, 07:40:40 pm
Please do not hit the pay pal button again, otherwise you entry will appear on the AUK start sheet with multiple entries.
Thanks Org
Post by: Mike Conway on 28 January, 2014, 08:32:05 pm
I hear there's a few hills...
Post by: Mad Jack on 28 January, 2014, 08:50:11 pm
I'm in - ECE'ing from Haywards Heath to make it a 200 (well, actually 228km in total but who's counting?)
I hear there's a few hills...
Well done should make a good day awheel, think the Croydon massive hold the orginal record way back in the mists of time..
But TG camped a few years back and rode around then rode home all on an MTB with all the kit...
Look out for the national MTB champion using this for training too.. Could be a way forward using a full sus 29er and just hit everything :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 06 February, 2014, 07:03:26 pm
Post by: jsabine on 07 February, 2014, 12:54:44 am
Nine cards left.. Roll up roll up any more takers, final shout :thumbsup:
Eight.
(Well, one fewer than ten minutes ago anyway.)
Now to speak to that nice Mr Malins about ECEs 'n' stuff.
Post by: Mad Jack on 07 February, 2014, 06:31:01 pm
Updated route sheet available- http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/14-85/
There are 6 info controls that need answers, failure to gather these will result in your brevet card being handed back to you not validated, we will prompt you throughout the day but not at the finish... ::-)
Please note- there is no longer access to the leisure center rear entrance via the fire doors, please use the front reception to gain access to the Cafe and the final control.
Thanks,
Org
Post by: Mad Jack on 08 February, 2014, 09:42:32 am
See link on calendar page or up here^.
Still 8 cards left, if you have blown the cobwebs out on the H&M and WWW, go on the GPS series awaits and you know is makes sence ;D
Post by: Mad Jack on 08 February, 2014, 10:22:47 am
John and Tim. Start of the London Sightseer September 2004
Post by: Mad Jack on 08 February, 2014, 11:03:46 am
Mad Jacks class of 2000 @ EL Supremos control at the top of Penhurst.
Riders from >>>> L to R- George, ?, ?, Tony, Peter, Derick, Paul. ?, ?, Richard T, Ian H hiding (this is when you rode it!!) Dave, El Supremo (in the back of trailer) Pauline, Cant remember? Chris, Cant remember- Mike B and Rob.
Post by: Mad Jack on 08 February, 2014, 01:23:46 pm
Post by: hellymedic on 08 February, 2014, 01:38:57 pm
Post by: Jeff E on 08 February, 2014, 01:45:20 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 08 February, 2014, 01:52:59 pm
Scarlets written in pink was very difficult for me to read against a grey background on my computer. I had to highlight it!
Well the Cafes Pink and you've guessed it, it's full of Girls (staff) :-*, still 8 cards left Chaps :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 08 February, 2014, 01:55:33 pm
That should be L to R for the photo. Stars like Chris, Pauline and George etc were so obvious to me, that I could not understand at first why you did not mention them........then the penny dropped.
Yup list of Old skoll goes >>>>> (yes your right). Not riding then.... See above posting :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 10 February, 2014, 09:45:18 am
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/winter-olympics/26108458
Post by: rob on 10 February, 2014, 10:11:45 am
Riders from >>>> L to R- George, ?, ?, Tony, Peter, Derick, Paul. ?, ?, Richard T, Ian H hiding (this is when you rode it!!) Dave, El Supremo (in the back of trailer) Pauline, Cant remember? Chris, Cant remember- could be Steve and Rob.
Mick Brockwell
God that's an old photo....
Rob
Post by: Jeff E on 10 February, 2014, 10:51:35 am
Sorry not to be able to ride this one this year. But really enjoyed myself on this route last year.
Post by: Arry-R on 10 February, 2014, 05:20:47 pm
Post by: Tim Hall on 10 February, 2014, 05:30:41 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 10 February, 2014, 05:46:08 pm
Rob, thanks, Mick it is then. Photos been stashed for years.. PM ur oldies and I'll see if we can put them up..
Jeff, to be honest Tim does 100's of photos and I did ask EL for some of the names ;D
Arry-R yes it's that Dave... Come on then, are you the chap who had his steering wheel nicked from ur XR2 and had to drive home with a pair of Mole grips clamped on the steering shaft from your tool box, try explaining that to the Officer!!!! That's Cardiff for you... ;D
Tim Hall- thanks your in!! It's the wash off from the fields that's going to be interesting, the waters draining off..
Post by: rob on 10 February, 2014, 09:21:15 pm
Robert Bullyment you look young there!! ;D ;D One wonders is it David (Swampy) Stevens I see in Woolley hat??
Still in my 20s.....
Post by: JossW on 12 February, 2014, 03:14:10 pm
Post by: Salvatore on 12 February, 2014, 03:38:39 pm
Robert Bullyment you look young there!! ;D ;D One wonders is it David (Swampy) Stevens I see in Woolley hat??
Still in my 20s.....
I recall that even at such a tender age you were officially a veteran.
Post by: Mad Jack on 12 February, 2014, 05:42:26 pm
Mad Jack - is there anywhere to stash a small rucksack on Sat morning? I'm having a weekend in Sussex. If not, no problem, I'll take it with me. Not as if the route is hilly or anything... ;)
Hello Joss,
No problem, bung it in the vehicle and remind me to fetch it out before the finish. :-*
Just bought loads of bananas X40 (Morrisons 68p a Kilo, El...), was getting funny looks and people pointing ! Bloke at the till reckoned they were for pigs!! :o
Post by: Lurcio on 15 February, 2014, 01:02:13 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 15 February, 2014, 08:36:20 pm
A massive thank you to my team, AJB @ the start and Burwash. Mum for being on standby and helping with admin in the vehicle at the start (rode EL's 200 way back in 93 on tandem with Dad). Lurcio and his Daughter Rachel- welcome to the team in Battle control X3. Asherman at the finish also welcome to the team. Thank you to Tarnia and her team in Skarlett's Cafe in Battle fantastic.
Stats 85 entered plus 1 helper = 86, 37 started, 6 dnf, 4 did not complete the route missing the Burwash control. 27 validated.
Weather, yes plenty of it, we had four seasons in one day, but no snow! Lovely in Battle and the sun did beam through the window, we even had to open the door to cool off ;D
Thank you to all my regulars that completed the route, good luck for the racing season to all the local clubmen from Eastbourne Rovers and the Lewes Wanderers plus all the other clubs inc YACF. :thumbsup:
Well done to the Tandem, with AAA champ stoking, inc broken bits that stayed together, one tough cookie. Massive congrats to young Oliver who rode it all on 56" fixed, well done.
Martin did well and was on a storming 160 km and on route to T-wells to complete his ECE 200km and AAA points to boot. A few mechanical problems with punctures and worn brake blocks.
Thanks again for using the front entrance at the finish leisure center.
Note to self, don't offer to move anyone the night before organising an event!
I doff my cap to the class of 2014 Mad Jack JSM riders :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 15 February, 2014, 09:12:26 pm
AAA champ
Post by: Mad Jack on 15 February, 2014, 09:15:57 pm
Summer in Sussex today :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 15 February, 2014, 09:19:18 pm
Hand made and great mileage :D
Post by: Mad Jack on 15 February, 2014, 09:21:21 pm
:thumbsup: :-*
Post by: Mad Jack on 15 February, 2014, 09:29:16 pm
L to R >>> Kim (ERCC) and Richard (LWCC) fast local road men, well done chaps :thumbsup:
Post by: Tim Hall on 15 February, 2014, 10:40:20 pm
Top work by Tanya and her team at Scarlett's too. And fantastic ink too.
Slightly puzzled by the road sign at somewhere around 118km warning of "Uneven Road Surface". Like the rest wasn't or something.
Post by: Mad Jack on 16 February, 2014, 06:53:07 am
L to R >>> Rachel, Tim Hall YACF :thumbsup:, riders and Clint.
Post by: Martin on 16 February, 2014, 05:02:45 pm
another classic edition of the ride; so nice to be riding it rather than manning a control incapacitated like 4 years ago. Having to ECE it not having a car was not such a good move, as wasn't deciding to ride up to Cross in Hand after with completely destroyed legs.
Mercifully dry (in the sky at least), rode with Dougal for a bit but mostly solo; amazingly depleted field not sure what but everyone off the wind maybe? (not that it was too much a problem, the gert hills kept most of it away)
Thanks MJ and your helpers Lurcio and his daughter :thumbsup:
Post by: JossW on 16 February, 2014, 09:36:19 pm
Good day out.
Post by: Corlis Benefideo on 17 February, 2014, 06:58:14 pm
It was hailing in Burwash over breakfast and looked very gloomy which may have put a fair few off. Thankfully the lanes were mostly sheltered, and it turned out to be a glorious day. The lanes may be filled with holes and gravel but there certainly were some splendid views. I can't wait to get back in summer. (And hopefully a couple of times before then!) Myself and a couple of others got well and truly pelted by hail for a couple of minutes just outside Brede, it was quite painful...
Big thanks to the organisers, stampers, and all helpers. Enthusiasm was much appreciated!
In case anyone's forgotten:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9vfro66C_nU/UwETV7ZvYkI/AAAAAAAAFnY/r_QYB5qDkrw/s553-no/IMG_20140215_131145.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lknGZUsJHnU/UwETYaT1PWI/AAAAAAAAFn0/cK_ZaCnyqLo/s553-no/IMG_20140215_111101.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_7kQ7ohieIU/UwEMd1VWhGI/AAAAAAAAF5w/Xfxgmw2eNzM/s553-no/IMG_20140215_122238161.jpg)
Post by: jsabine on 17 February, 2014, 09:40:02 pm
I could look at it as a string of failures - failed to meet Martin beforehand to ride over together, failed to get to the start in time to get my brevet card, failed to make up enough time to actually finish before MJ had closed down for the night, failed to get home in any sort of shape for my plans for the Sunday, and therefore failed to get up to Bedford or bumble over to Burford.
But I won't. Damn good ride, surprisingly good weather (OK, so I got hailed on twice, but never ended up too, too wet, and prefer to think of the gales as exhilarating), good views even at the price of execrable roads, and even though I was knackered at the end I was pretty pleased to have racked up 300 or so km.
I am, though, rubbish at both the English and Dutch variety of hill.
Post by: Mad Jack on 19 January, 2015, 08:38:31 pm
As others have said a gruelling yet very enjoyable day. I was the fool on a fixed gear so was very happy to finish! I've endured a couple of hard rides with the sole purpose of being able to do this ride, so it was all worth it. Ended up riding most of it solo due to my silly bike, with a couple of brief interludes of company, as well as a nice roll into Hailsham with a Southdown rider called Colin.
It was hailing in Burwash over breakfast and looked very gloomy which may have put a fair few off. Thankfully the lanes were mostly sheltered, and it turned out to be a glorious day. The lanes may be filled with holes and gravel but there certainly were some splendid views. I can't wait to get back in summer. (And hopefully a couple of times before then!) Myself and a couple of others got well and truly pelted by hail for a couple of minutes just outside Brede, it was quite painful...
Big thanks to the organisers, stampers, and all helpers. Enthusiasm was much appreciated!
In case anyone's forgotten:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9vfro66C_nU/UwETV7ZvYkI/AAAAAAAAFnY/r_QYB5qDkrw/s553-no/IMG_20140215_131145.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lknGZUsJHnU/UwETYaT1PWI/AAAAAAAAFn0/cK_ZaCnyqLo/s553-no/IMG_20140215_111101.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_7kQ7ohieIU/UwEMd1VWhGI/AAAAAAAAF5w/Xfxgmw2eNzM/s553-no/IMG_20140215_122238161.jpg)
Great photos from last year, why not come on down again for this year folks, Saturday 21st February 2015 @ 09.00 :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 26 January, 2015, 10:14:32 pm
All AAA riders please note, this event has sold half of it's 85 entries. Bagged Hills & Mills, then this is the next calendar event, come and
join the fun with your fellow like minded riders. Now in it's 16th year and still a force to be reckoned with, past riders have moved on to greater achievements- Jo became AUK champion after riding this as her 1st event a few years back. TG rode this and camped on the way down, now he's the man of the moment :thumbsup:
Current AAA masters also in attendance ;D
Post by: ebbson on 27 January, 2015, 12:33:35 pm
To ECE or not to ECE? That is the question.
Post by: Mad Jack on 27 January, 2015, 01:22:31 pm
I'm in.
To ECE or not to ECE? That is the question.
For the record, Alan P and the Prof rode down and possibly back to Croydon a few years back before ECEing existed, so you'll be the 1st ;D
Post by: Aunt Maud on 29 January, 2015, 08:08:59 am
East Sussex calling....
Current AAA masters also in attendance ;D
Wow!! Royalty :thumbsup:
Post by: Martin on 29 January, 2015, 10:27:27 am
Current AAA master also in attendance ;D
FTFY
btw I ECE'd it last year :)
Post by: jsabine on 29 January, 2015, 03:10:53 pm
Current AAA master also in attendance ;D
FTFY
btw I ECE'd it last year :)
And I sort-of tried to. Failed miserably, for which I blame the unconscionably stormy forecast (and my own lack of fitness), but I tried.
Post by: Mad Jack on 05 February, 2015, 07:08:53 am
Post by: PAC on 05 February, 2015, 07:53:08 am
Post by: Mad Jack on 13 February, 2015, 07:34:42 pm
Where are all the lady's?
I thank you.. :thumbsup:
PS, check your cables cause your gonna need em.. Why not take a few spares ;D ;D
Post by: Aunt Maud on 13 February, 2015, 10:01:10 pm
Where are all the lady's?
Well, I'm coming.
I need to talk to that there Martin fella about an ECE too.
Post by: Tim Hall on 14 February, 2015, 05:56:30 pm
Note to self: fettle front mech so it can get the teeny ring.
Post by: Mad Jack on 14 February, 2015, 08:03:35 pm
Lot's of patching has taken place which is great news. Luckily it's the week after that the roads are being closed for repairs mainly @
09.09 Chilsham lane & return @ 115.29 expect the full works of uneven/ potholes etc it's still rideable just pick your way through.
There are some nasty potholes on three fast descents worthy of mention-
12.49 km L@ T no $ uneven (in dip/ fast decent major pothole on LHS)
105.00 km 1st R (Skinners Lane) ( on ascent potholes on LHS)
107.50 km R S Ashburnham - descend (potholes on LHS)
109.90 km 1st R $ Ashburnham- descend (on 1st R hand bend large pothole on LHS fast descent)
We were held up by the local hunt so hopefully they will have gone buy next week!
I have 2 cards left as of 20.49 today, please only hit the pay pal button once, I won't mention who hit it three times!!!!
Note to self, need new brake blocks and check cables too..
I thank you..
Org
Post by: Martin on 16 February, 2015, 11:45:27 pm
would rather put the winter bike down those lanes after the recent weather but 34x26 :o
on Doleham Hill :'(
Post by: Mad Jack on 17 February, 2015, 08:29:41 am
decisions decisions which bike to bring?
would rather put the winter bike down those lanes after the recent weather but 34x26 :o
on Doleham Hill :'(
Rode it on Johns Bob Jackson full touring spec machine inc panier- 40 x 30 was OK!
I reckon Willingford lane is the most testing but then again, Peter James Lane is up there too ;D
Warp speed descent down battery hill on the return :o Love it!!!
Post by: Aunt Maud on 17 February, 2015, 01:32:19 pm
.........but 34x26 :o
on Doleham Hill :'(
Is there anything I need to know about this ride if the current AAA champ is baulking at using a 34x26 ?
Post by: Martin on 17 February, 2015, 01:54:34 pm
.........but 34x26 :o
on Doleham Hill :'(
Is there anything I need to know about this ride if the current AAA champ is baulking at using a 34x26 ?
only wondering if Death make another appearance?
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=13593.msg291362#msg291362
Post by: Aunt Maud on 17 February, 2015, 02:12:40 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMBsZC-FJNE&spfreload=10 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMBsZC-FJNE&spfreload=10)
Post by: Mad Jack on 17 February, 2015, 09:14:37 pm
only wondering if Death make another appearance?
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=13593.msg291362#msg291362
Re: photos ^^ link, Keep going at the top of Penhurst and L @ T to Battle, sadly there's no EL's mobile control there now (retired from winter events).
Just for the record, I devised this route over 16 years ago and handed it to Hawkwind for a few years and when he retired I reinstated it with a few tweaks here and there :)
Any idea who death was????
Post by: Martin on 18 February, 2015, 12:21:57 am
only wondering if Death make another appearance?
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=13593.msg291362#msg291362
Re: photos ^^ link, Keep going at the top of Penhurst and L @ T to Battle, sadly there's no EL's mobile control there now (retired from winter events).
Just for the record, I devised this route over 16 years ago and handed it to Hawkwind for a few years and when he retired I reinstated it with a few tweaks here and there :)
Any idea who death was????
Hawkwind ref The Hill of the Mountain Feast "Where table strain'd 'neath loaded platter" is nothing to do with Heffalump; just a reference to some pretentious 70s HM album of a similar name
Death was 2 people IIRC; one a lady inna black coat
the other probably Death himself....
Post by: Aunt Maud on 18 February, 2015, 05:01:19 am
Post by: Mad Jack on 18 February, 2015, 06:42:57 pm
only wondering if Death make another appearance?
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=13593.msg291362#msg291362
Re: photos ^^ link, Keep going at the top of Penhurst and L @ T to Battle, sadly there's no EL's mobile control there now (retired from winter events).
Just for the record, I devised this route over 16 years ago and handed it to Hawkwind for a few years and when he retired I reinstated it with a few tweaks here and there :)
Any idea who death was????
Hawkwind ref The Hill of the Mountain Feast "Where table strain'd 'neath loaded platter" is nothing to do with Heffalump; just a reference to some pretentious 70s HM album of a similar name
Death was 2 people IIRC; one a lady inna black coat
the other probably Death himself....
And there's me thinking that Hawkwind was Marks name onear for the last seven years.... Derr ::-)
For the uninitiated and Lord Zoomo's delight- Hawkwind (Silver machine) on TOTP 1972- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp0PLPwQM1Q
I'm sure there's brevet card name writing to do or somefink :)
Post by: Mad Jack on 19 February, 2015, 10:23:29 pm
" Battle- http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2656161
" Hailsham- http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2647655
Post by: mmmmartin on 20 February, 2015, 12:51:49 am
Post by: Martin on 20 February, 2015, 08:09:45 am
good training for Mallorca in a week 8)
Post by: Aunt Maud on 20 February, 2015, 06:12:23 pm
Plus I'll be ECE'ing this one to make it a 200'n a bit, hopefully I'll get there on time. :facepalm:
What's the railway bike path like from Horam, or should I take Horebeech Lane/ Grove Hill ?
Post by: mmmmartin on 20 February, 2015, 06:30:26 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 20 February, 2015, 06:37:02 pm
I'm unable to print the route sheet, as my machine doesn't do .docm (jeez). Any chance I can pick one up at the start.........pretty please.
Plus I'll be ECE'ing this one to make it a 200'n a bit, hopefully I'll get there on time. :facepalm:
What's the railway bike path like from Horam, or should I take Horebeech Lane/ Grove Hill ?
Yep have printed five route sheets off, no problemo...
MJJSM will be open for business from 08.00 until 09.00 sharp then Battle bound ;D
The Cuckoo trail will most probably be skoggy, i'd bag Horebeech lane/ Grove hill if it were me ;D
See you all from 08.00 :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 20 February, 2015, 06:40:28 pm
No doubt someone with more recent knowledge will be asking in a minute, but there's not much in it really. The bike path is flat but clogged with dog walkers (perhaps not early on a Sunday morning) and the road is faster but a bit further and has one semi-serious hill. Local riders tend to use the road as it is all tarmac while the path can be a bit muddy.
Sir the event is on Saturday and not Sunday ;D
Post by: Mad Jack on 20 February, 2015, 06:44:29 pm
Good wishes from the other side of the world. I'd be there helping out but it's a long way to go at the moment. I'm back in time to ride The Man Of Kent, where I hope the roads are a bloody sight better than they are in Patagonia.
Great excuse ;D Ping us some photos, these rd's I must see :thumbsup:
Post by: Martin on 20 February, 2015, 08:49:18 pm
as MJ says Grove Hill will be handy for those extra AAA ;)
Post by: Ashaman42 on 20 February, 2015, 08:55:26 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 21 February, 2015, 07:01:04 am
What's it doing outside, well according the the temp sensor it's + 0.7 C and now cloudy @ 06.59.
loading up and rolling along some of the 1st section shortly.
See you @ the start 08.00.... out :thumbsup:
Post by: Martin on 21 February, 2015, 09:10:04 am
set off at 0700 2 accidents on the M25 and A22 closed after East Grinstead. Abandoned 0842 with 20 miles still to drive as it was made it quite clear the organiser would not wait at the start. Also had no idea what the weather was like at the start, it's deep snow here now.
remind me never to do an event where the org does not provide contact details on the day...
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 February, 2015, 09:26:37 am
See you all at the finish.
Post by: Martin on 21 February, 2015, 11:14:00 am
Post by: Lurcio on 21 February, 2015, 11:31:42 am
typical bright and sunny here now off to Ashdown Forest for 0.75 fewer AAA 8)Now I know why you have gone AWOL. It is bright and sunny down here and the soup and company are wonderful. Best wishes from Hawklord.
Post by: Lenny1 on 21 February, 2015, 06:42:39 pm
Post by: Ashaman42 on 21 February, 2015, 07:02:28 pm
Post by: PAC on 21 February, 2015, 08:16:38 pm
Just back from helping at the finish. I thought everyone looked remarkably fresh this time round. Well done all.Ahhh, now I can put another name to a face :thumbsup:
Post by: Lurcio on 21 February, 2015, 08:30:45 pm
Mad Jack you have set the bar really high for organisers.
Next up is in the GdS series is 'The Hell of the Coastal Hills" on Sunday April 12th*
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/15-184/
A flatter alternative is also available.
*Commemorative water bottles will be awarded on this ride**
** This is a fib.
Post by: PAC on 21 February, 2015, 08:32:39 pm
It sounds like I made the right decision by leaving home at just after 05:30 to get to the start at about 08:00hrs....there was a lot of snow settling on the M25 at Reigate, but it turned to rain along the A22.
The ride was...challenging! I'm sure those of us that started it were thinking 'is this really a good idea :-\?, but once I'd got up to my 'keeping warm' pace, I was hammering up and down the hills with a sadistic grin on my face....bacon butty & tea on the 1st visit to the cafe, a quick charge around the Burwash loop, then off to Fairlight....that was one helluvahill up to the main road turning just before Fairlight - I've never lifted the front wheel on my Audax bike, but did going up that today ;D
I went past the 2nd & 3rd riders near Three Oaks as they were heading for Fairlight & I was heading back to Battle & then saw a few other riders at Battle who were fuelling up for the Fairlight loop.
I got back to Hailsham just before 15:00hrs, absolutely knackered & on a much lighter bike than when I started....the brake blocks & most of the braking surface on the rims were leaving a trail of brine along the road behind me I think :facepalm:
Still, home now & have recovered....a superb day out, actually & worth the journey to do it :thumbsup:
Cheers!
Peter.
Post by: Aunt Maud on 21 February, 2015, 09:03:27 pm
Cheers Mad Jack and family, Lurcio and Ashaman42, an excellent day out.
Post by: Martin on 21 February, 2015, 09:10:52 pm
That was reassuringly hilly. :thumbsup:
looking forward to seeing the ECE profile :o
amazed that 47 made it to the start & round it looked lockdown snow here, obv very localised
Post by: Mad Jack on 21 February, 2015, 10:59:19 pm
Stats- 90 entered, 53 started, 13 dnf, 40 finished plus 1 helper = 41 submitted for validation.
A very well done to all that started and thank you to everyone that supported this event.
Congratulations to all 40 successful riders for today's efforts, this must be the most testing Mad Jacks JSM event in the last 16.
Well done to all those that came from far afield (Oxford, big smoke etc)
Good to meet the AUK big brass and I hope all is in order Sir O:-), PAC well done Sir, Aunt Maud a great result with your great effort in today's conditions and not forgetting my regulars too, thanks chaps. :thumbsup: Thanks to my route testing companion too :-*
Well done to Lewes Wanderers CC who had the most finishers X4. Eastbourne Rovers x2,. Hastings and SLOS X2.
Also- well done to the father and son team that finished in respectable time and for the other new boy that dragged my Spanish tour leader (Chris) around all day ;D
Photos to follow
I thank you
Andy
Post by: iddu on 21 February, 2015, 11:53:10 pm
I don't remember it being so hard last time - perhaps some gears are in order for HotSCH ;)
Post by: Lurcio on 22 February, 2015, 01:07:40 pm
[clanging bell] Unfit! Unfit! [/clanging bell]
I don't remember it being so hard last time - perhaps some gears are in order for HotSCH ;)
I only recall one other rider attempting MJ on fixed. Chapeau.
Post by: Huff n Puff on 22 February, 2015, 01:11:11 pm
It actually turned out to be decent weather soon after the start, mainly sunny, although one short hailstorm in the afternoon. It would have been a great ride but my guts were bad all day and my gears were playing up too, so I was riding on the small ring with no energy to spin! At the third stop at Battle the controller was trying to persuade me to have some food in the café, I didn't really like to explain that it would be a waste of time with my guts. Anyway, I got around, which was the object of the exercise.
It's a shame some people missed it, and hats off to the guy from Horley who scraped snow off his car in the morning, brave decision.
Well done to the organisers, my third one with you guys and they've all been good.
Post by: Mad Jack on 22 February, 2015, 09:51:32 pm
(click to show/hide)
Post by: mcshroom on 22 February, 2015, 10:22:29 pm
Post by: hellymedic on 22 February, 2015, 10:35:21 pm
Just tried it and I get the same as Ruthie
Me too, also, as well.
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 February, 2015, 10:36:26 pm
hats off to the guy from Horley who scraped snow off his car in the morning, brave decision.
That was me. I was regretting it on the first leg out to Hailsham. Cold fingers, cold toes, crap roads. Then I noticed it had stopped raining and the roads were trying to dry out, so life got better. It's still a Very Hilly Ride though, and my bike is filthy. And my mid week fettling didn't entirely fix my front mech.
Bumped (fortunately not literally) into a lad from San Fairy Ann who'd had an altercation with (parked) car. We rode the few miles back to Hailsham. I hope he's OK.
Having the control full of a children's tea party was, umm, different. Excellent cakes thobut.
Top day. Thank very much Andy and your merry band. And I got a spiffy new water bottle. It's all good.
Post by: Aunt Maud on 22 February, 2015, 10:42:31 pm
Anyone else see any other harbingers of springtime ?
Oooh! I also saw someone on Shanks's Pony too :D
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 February, 2015, 10:51:06 pm
In the meantime, whilst we're all waiting for the slideshow. I spotted some Primroses on the way round.
Anyone else see any other harbingers of springtime ?
Oooh! I also saw someone doing Shanks's Pony too :D
Not necessarily spring things, but in my Eye Spy Book of Mad Jack's 125km I saw:
Soggy primroses, buzzard over Batemans, heron, kestrel, green woodpecker, lady with black and red hair, child with a rainbow on her forehead, barn with a new roof (last year, which was just after a wind so mighty as to lay low the mountains of the earth, the barn's roof was lying in the field next to it). And mud. lots of mud.
Post by: Tim Hall on 22 February, 2015, 11:11:43 pm
It's working yippee ;D ;D ;D(click to show/hide)
"Sorry. This person has moved or deleted this image"
Post by: Mad Jack on 22 February, 2015, 11:35:51 pm
Bumped (fortunately not literally) into a lad from San Fairy Ann who'd had an altercation with (parked) car. We rode the few miles back to Hailsham. I hope he's OK.
Having the control full of a children's tea party was, umm, different. Excellent cakes thobut.
Top day. Thank very much Andy and your merry band. And I got a spiffy new water bottle. It's all good.
Thanks Tim,
The SFA rider finished OK after he recomposed himself, (not weather related) thanks Lurcio O:-)
Cafe agreed back in May but unfortunately must have forgotten of our visit ::-) think they made
up for it with the lovely soup and tea :thumbsup:
Think the original spoiler link is now working.. ;D
Donation made to the TG's OYTT, keep the pedals turning Steve O:-) :thumbsup:
Post by: hellymedic on 23 February, 2015, 10:44:23 pm
Seems URLs are incomplete.
Post by: Mad Jack on 24 January, 2018, 06:12:57 pm
Now in it's 19th year and still attracts a loyal following.
Join the fun here in Sussex on the byways that have hardly changed since the 1700's :thumbsup:
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/18-85/
Post by: JossW on 24 January, 2018, 10:13:59 pm
Post by: mmmmartin on 27 January, 2018, 06:22:41 pm
Watch out for that grumpy bloke at the Burwash control :smug:
Post by: Mad Jack on 09 February, 2018, 10:39:00 pm
We have 30 spaces left and the official closing date is the 14th. 8)
Post by: Mad Jack on 19 February, 2018, 08:25:05 am
Route sheet updated 18/2/18 (see calendar page). http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/18-85/
Riders please note, there are lots of potholes that have appeared and too numerous to plot each one. Please ride as you normal ride on roads with potholes. Also lots of mud and gravel from the recent rain that has washed off some of the fields, again proceed as you normally do in these conditions.
The return route section from Fairlight from 85.30 @ Three Oaks, the Road is CLOSED but one can still get through if you dismount and walk about 10 metres through the pedestrian pathway. There is no real alternative route so please roll with this..
Final route check will commence at the end of this week with my forward scout.. :thumbsup:
Org
Post by: mmmmartin on 19 February, 2018, 05:44:57 pm
Post by: Grandad on 19 February, 2018, 08:18:36 pm
Quote
The weather forecast says it'll be a dry day, chilly but no rain.I'd put more trust into what it says on Friday :-\
Post by: Mad Jack on 21 February, 2018, 06:52:53 am
Don't forget your sun block, surprising how strong the fire in the sky can be in winter here in the souf 8)
Here you go, something to keep your beady eyes on-
https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/forecast/u101mgdbz#?date=2018-02-24
Post by: Mad Jack on 23 February, 2018, 09:48:34 pm
Begin forward scout report- apparently there are lots of hedge’s that have been cut and cuttings on the road, be mindful of this.
Weather see forecasts.
Road still closed @ 85.00km in Three Oaks, but one can still dismount and walk through.
Team primed and we will see you in the morning if entered.
Org
Post by: mmmmartin on 25 February, 2018, 01:17:03 am
Hope to see The Usual Suspects on Hills & Mills next January.
Post by: psyclist on 25 February, 2018, 11:25:37 am
Little ice on my ECE route, as I had selected mostly gritted roads. At Hailsham I checked the rear brake, and it was now working fine. It had probably resolved itself earlier, perhaps being frozen at the start, and thawing on route.
The calendar ride was lovely, if a little icy on some of the lanes. Excellent company with a combination of Essex/Kent riders I know, although I pushed ahead after Fairlight as I was getting worried about finishing the ECE in time. Turns out I was back in Hailsham only 10 minutes before the others.
The return ECE route took me via Crowborough. On one of the descents my dynamo light switched to what I would think is daytime mode. Very little light emitted, just as I approach a section of slush. Very disconcerting. After that I used a spare front light, and with the dynamo light switching off and on quite often, I ended up switching it off completely. Perhaps a loose wire somewhere.
So a long day, but I'm pleased to have a nice hilly ride completed so early in the season. Thanks to the organisers and helpers - every stop was a pleasurable experience with smiles and banter galore.
Post by: Mad Jack on 16 January, 2019, 05:11:13 pm
Avoid disappointment and enter ASAP ;D
Post by: Mad Jack on 21 January, 2019, 02:35:24 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 28 January, 2019, 10:04:42 am
Closes 13/2/19..
Post by: markldn on 28 January, 2019, 01:09:31 pm
Post by: mmmmartin on 05 February, 2019, 02:47:01 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 09 February, 2019, 11:20:11 am
Signed up after having had a great experience with Hills and Mills.
:thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 09 February, 2019, 11:26:40 am
Thanks to all those that have entered in good time :thumbsup:
Those that choose to turn up and tag along on the day and not having entered, (no entries on the line) be aware that's you T## :hand:
Post by: Mad Jack on 12 February, 2019, 10:30:16 am
Post by: mmmmartin on 12 February, 2019, 10:59:49 am
Amirite?
(Not an unashamed bump. Oh no.)
Post by: Mad Jack on 14 February, 2019, 07:18:16 am
martin (the other one) cannot pm you, check settings! ::-)
Post by: Mad Jack on 17 February, 2019, 06:48:35 am
Note some large potholes (but not all of them that are present at the route checking stage!) around/on- 06.22 km Cinderford lane. 12.49 on descent in dip towards Ponts Green. 69.62 On bend towards Doleham Halt. 87.60 on, in dip on descent whole carriageway! Noted that some repairs to the road surfaces have been undertaken and one would consider that this is repair work in progress.
Info control at 20.21, a note will be issued at the start regarding this, for obvious reasons I cannot give out the question details here please read notes at start that will be on display!
Please note that this is a GDS listed event which promotes hilly events in the Southeast of the UK, Martin has details of other events which are also listed here https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1254.0 & https://sites.google.com/site/grimpeursdusud/ :thumbsup:
Post by: Martin on 17 February, 2019, 06:14:53 pm
I still think it's beyond my abilities after losing all my fitness over the winter after borking in November
Post by: Mad Jack on 19 February, 2019, 06:57:20 pm
If anyone would like to ride having not entered/ missed the closing date, there are seven cards left.
Entries open until 22.00 tonight 20/2/19 and you may be lucky. :thumbsup:
Post by: EllysH on 20 February, 2019, 05:18:58 pm
Has anyone found a workable route to Polegate, or is Uckfield the only option?
Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk
Post by: grams on 20 February, 2019, 06:22:32 pm
It's just a shame it requires such an early start.
(the only other non-bus option I can see is via Tonbridge and St Leonard's Warrior Square, leaving Victoria 6:03, arriving Polegate 8:47, or Hampden Park 8:25)
Post by: EllysH on 20 February, 2019, 06:38:40 pm
I did Uckfield for Hills and Mills. The main road is flat and was empty in the morning and not too bad in the afternoon.Thanks for that :)
It's just a shame it requires such an early start.
(the only other non-bus option I can see is via Tonbridge and St Leonard's Warrior Square, leaving Victoria 6:03, arriving Polegate 8:47, or Hampden Park 8:25)
Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk
Post by: Mad Jack on 20 February, 2019, 07:10:06 pm
Re: Early start, well it's been like that for 20 years, which enables those that like to have full day in the Sussex countryside to finish in daylight :thumbsup:
See you on Saturday from 07.30 ish..
Oh thanks web team for sorting out the AUK web thingy :thumbsup:
Post by: hellymedic on 20 February, 2019, 07:20:27 pm
Post by: EllysH on 21 February, 2019, 07:30:39 pm
I just don't understand the logic behind closing a tourist mainline for upgrades during one of the busiest half terms of the year.
My solution is solved: train to Uckfield for 0730, ride to start - do ride.
1816 train from Polegate to Victoria.
The "ugh," is that a reasonably short Audax will keep me out of the house from 0530 till 2300. Which is just daft, last time I rode a 100k in Sussex I left the house at 0730 and was home before 1800 having had a great day's ride.
Yes I hear there are major engineering on the Brighton mainline over half term, sorry I don't use the Iron horse now, I did back in the 80's and watched the M25 being built from train windows back in the day ;D
Re: Early start, well it's been like that for 20 years, which enables those that like to have full day in the Sussex countryside to finish in daylight
See you on Saturday from 07.30 ish..
Oh thanks web team for sorting out the AUK web thingy
Sent from my PLK-L01 using Tapatalk
Post by: Mad Jack on 22 February, 2019, 07:25:25 pm
I just don't understand the logic behind closing a tourist mainline for upgrades during one of the busiest half terms of the year.
Off topic...
I heard on Radio Sussex last week that they decided to shut the mainline down for essential engineering for nine days as opposed to taking 60 days to complete the work with part time closures.
I also heard talk of - if they reinstated the Uckfield to Lewes Line (one of Dr Beechings cuts back in 1964 ish) then everything would be fine as services could roll along there. (Reinstate all routes if you ask me and free up the roads for us ) ;D :thumbsup:
Something to get your teeth into - ;D
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beeching_cuts
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuckoo_Line
https://brightonmainline.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/501161_NR_BrightonML_DL-Leaflet_297x210_AW_2_b_Digi.pdf
Post by: hellymedic on 22 February, 2019, 07:29:57 pm
I just don't understand the logic behind closing a tourist mainline for upgrades during one of the busiest half terms of the year.
Off topic...
I heard on Radio Sussex last week that they decided to shut the mainline down for essential engineering for nine days as opposed to taking 60 days to complete the work with part time closures.
I also heard talk of - if they reinstated the Uckfield to Lewes Line (one of Dr Beechings cuts back in 1964 ish) then everything would be fine as services could roll along there. (Reinstate all routes if you ask me and free up the roads for us ) ;D :thumbsup:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beeching_cuts
https://brightonmainline.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/501161_NR_BrightonML_DL-Leaflet_297x210_AW_2_b_Digi.pdf
I suspect they wanted to complete as much as possible before the Descent of the Grockles at Easter. February is still fairly low-season, even at half-term.
Post by: Mad Jack on 22 February, 2019, 07:51:38 pm
Welcome to the 20th Mad Jack’s John Seviour Memorial Audax. 23/2/2019 09.00. Under Audax UK regulations.
Please check your name on the list and mention your number to the brevet team for your brevet card.
Please note, there are lots of potholes that have appeared and are too numerous to plot each one. Please ride as you normal ride on roads with potholes and in misty conditions.
There is lots of mud and gravel from the recent rain that has washed off some of the fields onto the route, again proceed as you normally do in these circumstances, see route sheet for disclaimer. (Yes we use to sweep the roads)!
Note some large potholes (but not all of them that are present at route checking stage!) around/on- 06.22 km Cinderford lane. 12.49km on descent in dip towards Ponts Green. 69.62km on bend towards Doleham Halt. 87.60km on, in dip on descent whole carriageway! Noted that some repairs to the road surfaces have been undertaken and one would consider that this is repair work in progress.
Info’s, (Please bring a pen) we will be prompting you throughout the event as there is unavoidably 6 of them that need answers written into the card as you progress around the route. C2 (Info control) - we have had to change this, to the following- what :-X?
Being it's an AAA event and one needs to obtain all 6 Info control answers for a successful brevet, which will be validated and handed to you at the finish if successful.
Apparently there are lots of hedge’s that have been cut and there are cuttings on the road, so please be mindful of this.
The main control in Battle @ :-X Café who have been briefed of your arrival, there is a meal deal on offer, see special boards in Café. Please be nice to the staff and support the control, we would like to use the café again next year. Burwash Control is at the BP garage Martin stamping cards, in vehicle, please use Garage for refreshments.
Have a good day awheel and enjoy the East Sussex scenery (hopefully the mist will lift).
You have until 17.56 to finish I will be around for a short while after this time.
Have a cupper and help yourself to food.
Any questions please ask.
2019 dream team- MJJSM are MJ, plus AP, Lurcio, AJB, mmmmartin and phixie, we all look forward to seeing those that have entered in the morning :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 23 February, 2019, 06:54:34 am
Note some large potholes (but not all of them that are present at route checking stage!) around/on- 06.22 km Cinderford lane. 12.49km on descent in dip towards Ponts Green. 69.62km on bend towards Doleham Halt. 87.60km on, in dip on descent whole carriageway! Noted that some repairs to the road surfaces have been undertaken and one would consider that this is repair work in progress.
Post by: mmmmartin on 23 February, 2019, 02:27:41 pm
As always, this remains a rite of passage: if you can do Hills & Mills and Mad Jack's at the start of the season, you're going to have a very good summer on the bike. That's why it's so popular.
Hope to see you all again next year.
Post by: Mad Jack on 23 February, 2019, 04:49:26 pm
We are still controlling here at the finish.
Riders please check your bikes and see if you are missing something. PM me for details. More info to follow.
Post by: psyclist on 24 February, 2019, 10:56:58 am
Thanks to all who helped put this together and made every control a cheery encounter.
Post by: grams on 24 February, 2019, 03:55:00 pm
I took it far too leisurely and found myself only at Uckfield at 8 am, and ended up racing the rest of the way full gas and only just made the start in time - just as most people were leaving in fact. Starting knackered and behind the field meant I did most of the ride solo and 5-10 minutes behind control closing times.
Because of the early start I'd brought all my cold weather gear, which I had to strip off and drag round for the rest of the ride.
An additional joy was about 10 km before Hailsham on the way back my Di2 battery died*. Luckily no more big hills so single speed was fine.
That café in Battle seemed like a gem - not many places chosen as audax controls will serve a vegan hot dog! It's a shame I didn't have time to sample one.
(* not really its fault - I couldn't tell you when I last charged it...)
Post by: Martin on 24 February, 2019, 05:28:22 pm
I think MJJSM has also inspired a few GdS as I've had several entries for Down to Downs today :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 24 February, 2019, 07:02:02 pm
Cracking weather and I have never know it so hot for this time of year.
Hoping the roads will be repaired for next years events.
Thanks team for your sterling work for both Hills and Mills and Mad Jacks JSM, same again next year and good luck with your events ( add the links to this).
Good luck to all riders that are Paris bound. :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Check out other GDS events, see up thread.
Post by: hellymedic on 24 February, 2019, 08:29:59 pm
I had a very new bicycle...
Post by: jaduncan on 25 February, 2019, 05:53:31 am
Post by: markldn on 25 February, 2019, 03:05:52 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 23 January, 2020, 06:17:33 pm
2020.
The route will be checked very shortly and route sheets updated there after if needed.
See you on Saturday if you have entered Hills and Mills this weekend 25/1/2020 :thumbsup:
Post by: rob on 23 January, 2020, 10:33:22 pm
Thank you for all your entry's so far for the 21st Mad Jack JSM, there is still time to enter this classic event with a closing date of the 12th February
2020.
The route will be checked very shortly and route sheets updated there after if needed.
See you on Saturday if you have entered Hills and Mills this weekend 25/1/2020 :thumbsup:
Looking forward to coming back. It has been many years since I rode and I think I did the inaugural event.
Post by: Mad Jack on 24 January, 2020, 07:09:48 am
Looking forward to coming back. It has been many years since I rode and I think I did the inaugural event.
Yes I have photographic evidence somewhere, it was posted here many moons ago, Mr T, the Late Tim, George H , Dave S, El Supremo, Chris A, plus many more, see if I can dig it out :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 31 January, 2020, 06:28:47 pm
Route sheet will be checked and updated accordingly in the next few days.
Thank you for your entries so far, the limit of riders is 85 and closes on the 10/02/2020. :thumbsup:
Post by: mmmmartin on 01 February, 2020, 06:52:34 pm
And - a reminder that it's pretty much accepted in audax circles that if you ride Hills & Mills and this one, you're set up for a decent performance over the summer.
Post by: Mad Jack on 03 February, 2020, 11:25:10 pm
Another smiley face will be at Burwash because another commitment means I cannot perform my usual duty. I hope to see you next year.
And - a reminder that it's pretty much accepted in audax circles that if you ride Hills & Mills and this one, you're set up for a decent performance over the summer.
Thanks mmmmartin,
Route sheet updated as of 02/02/2020. New Café (Burtons) control in Battle as mentioned, plus Burwash control is now a mobile control, as the BP garage is having a refit and the owner doubts whether it will be completed in time, plus he advised that their insurance would not cover riders on the premises whilst work was in progress. Control will hopefully be on right hand bend by Batemans.
Any further updates will be noted in due course. :thumbsup:
Post by: Mad Jack on 09 February, 2020, 09:21:07 am
Those of you that are in training for the Wessex series ( Hard Boiled, Porkers, Brimstone etc) this is ideal and was originally
Set up for that purpose. ;D
Post by: Mad Jack on 14 February, 2020, 05:56:12 pm
The roads are being washed and what's left of the dead wood removed from the hedges and trees this weekend again!! ;D :o
Post by: psyclist on 15 February, 2020, 11:29:12 am
The roads are being washed and what's left of the dead wood removed from the hedges and trees this weekend again!! ;D :o
We should have lovely conditions all round then, if it weren't for the fact that the forecast is currently showing a lull in the winds early next week, but then picking up again by the end of the week.
I think I'll wait a bit before deciding my ECE route. It usually involves lots of additional climbing, but with strong winds I might need a flatter route to make it easier to remain within the allowed time.
Post by: Mad Jack on 15 February, 2020, 07:05:32 pm
Quote from: Mad Jack link=topic=79464.msg2466258#msg2466258
date=1581702972The roads are being washed and what's left of the dead wood removed from the hedges and trees this weekend again!! ;D :o
We should have lovely conditions all round then, if it weren't for the fact that the forecast is currently showing a lull in the winds early next week, but then picking up again by the end of the week.
I think I'll wait a bit before deciding my ECE route. It usually involves lots of additional climbing, but with strong winds I might need a flatter route to make it easier to remain within the allowed time.
We may be lucky and everything crossed here. Saying 14 mph westerly , but that's changing every hour or so.
ECEing from where? Try and finish with a tailwind would be advantageous.. :thumbsup:
3 spaces left as ordered maximum cards and close tonight folks :thumbsup:
Post by: psyclist on 15 February, 2020, 09:24:52 pm
ECEing from where? Try and finish with a tailwind would be advantageous.. :thumbsup:
I usually drive down to Southborough and ECE from there. If I park slightly east from there, i could at least finish with a side wind.
Post by: grimpeur du sudocrem on 16 February, 2020, 10:33:11 am
Facebook event details https://www.facebook.com/events/749117618947187/ (https://www.facebook.com/events/749117618947187/)
Post by: Mad Jack on 17 February, 2020, 09:24:17 am
And anyone who hasn't had enough of Mad Jack (and Battle) by the arriveé might like to go to The Fascinating Tale of Mad Jack Fuller at Netherfield Café the same evening. Tickets £10 which includes dinner.
Facebook event details https://www.facebook.com/events/749117618947187/ (https://www.facebook.com/events/749117618947187/)
Thanks for the link, just called and they are full with over 50 in attendance, so we're on the reserve list.
Funds raised will help with major refurbishment work on John Fullers (Mad Jacks) Pyramid/ tomb in St Thomas a Becket Church in Brightling.
(I picked up a leaflet from the Church, please contact the following if interested-) £45K is needed for the work to go ahead. If anyone would like to make a donation please pledge to- fullernew@gmail.com with your full contact details and amount pledged or cheque payable to Parochial Church Council of Brightling and on the reverse write "Pyramid" send to The Treasurer, Brian Holliday, Staceys Barn Dallington TH21 9JS.
Post by: Mad Jack on 17 February, 2020, 03:26:12 pm
Cards have arrived (thank you brevet production) and labels printed.
Route sheet/ route observations-
The second storm in the space of two weeks has left a lot of dead branches etc across the roads, add to this with hedge cuttings, potholes, mud gravel, field wash and flooding your in for an excellent winters day out here in East Sussex. The sun has been out today so there is some good news ;D
Pothole alert (but not all of them)- Please ride on the roads like you normally do on a non event with potholes and gravel etc.
06.22km- 08.18km Cinderford lane, there's some large potholes to work your way through along this section with gravel and mud etc.
09.09km to the INFO, be mindful on a fast descent/ bends there are hidden potholes that have been repaired but need redoing again.
12.49km L @ T some large potholes and gravel across the lane in the dip/ hollow on the fast descent.
14.31km on Farthings lane, lots of running water due to blocked drains, plus hidden potholes on descents.
16.89 1st L $ Penshurst, again pothole to pick you way through on this section and be aware of the surface conditions on the fast descents.
25.15km 2nd Exit at RAB into BATTLE, there are some large potholes on the approach and exit, plus a raised surface on the Zebra crossing in a few metres (you go over this in both directions)!
GPX users, remember to continue along the High Street and the new control X3 at Burtons tearooms and the R in front of the Abbey, see route sheet (we are not at Scarletts Café along Mount street as that is no longer trading).
Update 2- Please ride on the roads like you normally do on a non event with potholes and gravel etc.
58.90km Descend over narrow Bridge, mind potholes
60.97km 1st R Hurst Lane BLIND turn, mind the potholes gravel and uneven surface on this section.
65.00 INFO CONTROL, mind the potholes on the assent up to T and on Goathem Lane descent.
69.62km L $ DOLEHAM HALT, mind the potholes on the assent and descent along this section.
74.45km- 74.84km 1st L $ Guestling Church, mind the large pothole on the R Hand bend and on the return leg.
77.66km R@T BLIND SUMMIT $ Fairlight Church rough roads surface along this section and the descent retracing and down Battery Hill, so take
it easy on this section.
80.48km 2nd L $ Rosemary Lane, mind the potholes and narrow section plus the uneven surface up the T.
83.60km, as mentioned above re: pothole by Church!
85.30km 1st L $ THREE OAKS, mind the pothole just after Rail Bridge and on the bends as you descend.
89.81km R $ BREDE again more potholes up the T.
90.31km SO X $ Cottage Lane, mind the descent for potholes and on the assent to T and again along to 94.71 km and to the A21 on Crazy lane.
96.13km along this section and near to the level crossing in Battle.
Last section-
Again be mindful of the road surfaces and potholes especially on the fast descents down from 107.50km from Ninfield. Also the descent from the A271 @109.90km and 111.00km to the info with gravel across the lane and potholes.
Please note the finish is in the Freedom leisure centre café and not the car park as per start, please see route sheet.
Any further and last updates will be posted on Thursday evening.
Post by: Mad Jack on 17 February, 2020, 04:59:19 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 18 February, 2020, 10:16:16 am
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.kentonline.co.uk/tonbridge/news/amp/major-road-to-close-for-10-days-221501/
Post by: rob on 18 February, 2020, 10:31:11 am
Those traveling via four wheels from Kent, Essex, East London and the M25, may want to avoid using the A21 on Saturday, allow and extra 1.30 hrs if using the A21 heading South :o
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.kentonline.co.uk/tonbridge/news/amp/major-road-to-close-for-10-days-221501/
I heard that on the news last night and didn't make the connection. A22 it is then.
Post by: Mad Jack on 20 February, 2020, 06:50:31 pm
Those traveling via four wheels from Kent, Essex, East London and the M25, may want to avoid using the A21 on Saturday, allow and extra 1.30 hrs if using the A21 heading South :o
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.kentonline.co.uk/tonbridge/news/amp/major-road-to-close-for-10-days-221501/
I heard that on the news last night and didn't make the connection. A22 it is then.
Thanks Rob,
Or use the M23..
Post by: Mad Jack on 20 February, 2020, 07:09:04 pm
Burwash Control will be outside Batemans National Trust property on the right hand bend to the left in the layby and a mobile control with some limited food and drink (I did ask at Batemans if we can use the Tearooms, but as it's a National Trust and non members will have to pay £14.00 to gain entry into the grounds, so this is not an option). The BP Garage is still at the refit stage as of this afternoon and will not be ready by Saturdays event.
The Start is as mentioned on the route sheet and the finish is in the Leisure centre and not in the Carpark!
Battle control is at Burtons Tea rooms and not Scarletts café which is not trading. GPX users take note of this please.
Uneven surface to pick your way trough are also from113.06km to 114.77 R@ T $ Rushlake Green.
See those of you that have entered on Saturday from 07.30. ECE riders please allow extra time to get to the start as we roll away from 09.00 to set up in Battle and you will miss your brevet card! ;D
Please bring the weather you like with you 8) ;D
Post by: rob on 22 February, 2020, 07:44:39 pm
First time I have felt good all day in months.
Thanks to Mad Jack and his team of helpers.
Post by: grimpeur du sudocrem on 23 February, 2020, 09:27:42 am
Roads were the usual brutal test of climbing legs and descending skills, happily I remembered both this year and avoided mechanicals and last year's 20km navigational error :thumbsup:
Thanks to all who made it happen!
Post by: psyclist on 23 February, 2020, 11:43:14 am
My ECE was completed at around 9pm. Definitely a slow and steady return leg ... the wind had died so my tailwind push didn't quite happen, and I'd forgotten quite how hilly it gets around Crowborough and then looping back to Southborough to where I'd parked my car.
Always good to see so many cheerful faces helping out on these events. Thank you for your time in making this ride what it is.
Post by: Le Mitre on 23 February, 2020, 04:56:27 pm
Lovely cafe checkpoint though so it wasn't all bad!
Post by: peter simplex on 23 February, 2020, 06:27:47 pm
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 February, 2020, 06:51:07 pm
Post by: Mad Jack on 23 February, 2020, 09:23:41 pm
Results submitted, 87 entered, 23 DNS and 14 DNF.
Helpers are Anton, K, E, Chris, Richard T and Richard P. :thumbsup:
Remember other GDS events are here- https://sites.google.com/site/grimpeursdusud/ :thumbsup:
The Mad Jack talk and meal was fabulous ;D
Post by: DavV on 23 February, 2020, 10:00:16 pm
Post by: grimpeur du sudocrem on 23 February, 2020, 10:02:41 pm
Glad you enjoyed the talk - wish I could have made that.
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 07 April, 2021, 04:38:39 pm
Just for the record my email provider (V#####.net) deleted my email account and so one couldn't log on here, so new name (the end bit).
Events are on hold but monitoring and seeing how it all pans out in 2022.
Keep getting the miles in ;D MJ (so)
Post by: mmmmartin on 07 April, 2021, 08:28:22 pm
Delighted to hear they'll run at some point. Please put me down to help as normal, at the usual places.
yours ever, M ::-)
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 07 April, 2021, 09:04:00 pm
See you up the road soon :thumbsup:
Dear Mr Same Old,
Delighted to hear they'll run at some point. Please put me down to help as normal, at the usual places.
yours ever, M ::-)
Post by: grimpeur du sudocrem on 07 April, 2021, 09:27:33 pm
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 08 April, 2021, 08:47:59 am
Hoping very much to ride both events next year. I rode the Mad Jack's route plus a bit extra a few weeks back and the hills hadn't got any flatter. A filthy day out and not many opportunities to eat, but I loved it anyway!
Post by: Phixie on 08 April, 2021, 11:41:00 am
Dear Mr Same Old,
Delighted to hear they'll run at some point. Please put me down to help as normal, at the usual places.
yours ever, M ::-)
Me too (unless that's suddenly non-PC!)
That and Hills & Mills both much missed events and challenging early season workouts. Hopefully by the New Year life will be back to what we considered normal and the weather will be better, too.
Enjoy all the other available events in the meantime.
Post by: mmmmartin on 08 April, 2021, 03:10:19 pm
That and Hills & Mills both much missed events and challenging early season workouts.Very much agree - if a rider can do these hilly events in January & February they are well placed for the rest of the season. They have for many years been seen as proving grounds for LEL and PBP and other such Big Hairy Challenges.
Post by: psyclist on 08 April, 2021, 03:18:02 pm
Very much agree - if a rider can do these hilly events in January & February they are well placed for the rest of the season.
Especially when collecting bonus AAA points for the ECE to and from the calendar event!
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 08 April, 2021, 07:35:19 pm
I hear tail of a limited contact new X route down these parts that was in the pipeline (devised before lockdown 2) following the rules back then, one needs to remind the org ;D
Dear Mr Same Old,
Delighted to hear they'll run at some point. Please put me down to help as normal, at the usual places.
yours ever, M ::-)
Me too (unless that's suddenly non-PC!)
That and Hills & Mills both much missed events and challenging early season workouts. Hopefully by the New Year life will be back to what we considered normal and the weather will be better, too.
Enjoy all the other available events in the meantime.
Post by: ABAudax on 09 April, 2021, 11:41:13 am
Goes without saying that I’ll be a helper on your rides and provided no ice may even ride them 😂
Anton
Post by: Phixie on 09 April, 2021, 03:36:05 pm
Post by: Ashaman42 on 09 April, 2021, 05:32:46 pm
Great rides and the first (and only) rides I've helped on. And fwiw got as much out of helping out as I did riding.
Though nothing will beat getting fed whisky at 11am on one of the ones I rode. I had to be chased back onto my bike or I'd have sat in that car park all day quite happily ;D
Post by: felstedrider on 09 April, 2021, 10:11:54 pm
I’m a bit further away these days but might come back to ride next year.
Rob
Post by: Ashaman42 on 10 April, 2021, 12:14:14 am
Not firing on all cylinders yet but heading in the right direction.
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 10 April, 2021, 05:03:55 pm
How are the entries going for the Venta 300 and 200 this year.
:thumbsup:
Andy
Goes without saying that I’ll be a helper on your rides and provided no ice may even ride them 😂
Anton
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 10 April, 2021, 05:16:51 pm
Hopefully we can all get back to some sort of normality soon, everything crossed O:-)
::-)
So everything seems to be in place. All we need now is for the NHS to get their vaccine needles in and the Govt to get their finger out! :)
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 10 April, 2021, 05:41:05 pm
Yes the wee dram was the real deal, but there's a strict no drinking policy in the carparks! I still have the same bottle must be 30 year + by now :thumbsup:
Rob, your going well I hear and on fixed too, did you get your clubs 24 HR podium.. :thumbsup:
I haven't ridden or helped for a few years what with, first studying, and then ill health but I'm up (provided I'm jabbed and feel safe) for helping and/or riding again. :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Great rides and the first (and only) rides I've helped on. And fwiw got as much out of helping out as I did riding.
Though nothing will beat getting fed whisky at 11am on one of the ones I rode. I had to be chased back onto my bike or I'd have sat in that car park all day quite happily ;D
Post by: ABAudax on 11 April, 2021, 05:23:32 pm
Anton, yes please.
How are the entries going for the Venta 300 and 200 this year.
:thumbsup:
Andy
Goes without saying that I’ll be a helper on your rides and provided no ice may even ride them 😂
Anton
Andy
The Venta is full but had a drop out last week that is still available. The 200is down to the last 2 entries before I’ll close.
Anton
Post by: Mad Jack same old on 12 April, 2021, 09:45:49 am
Andy
The Venta is full but had a drop out last week that is still available. The 200is down to the last 2 entries before I’ll close.
Anton
Anton
Good work, shout if you need any extra help :thumbsup: