Cars have been vandalised in the community centre carpark.
I'm planning to cycle to the start from Severn View. Probably won't have the car- at the moment I'm thinking train to Bristol - but thanks to all for the advice, just in case.
Presumably there is a gentle pre-ride gathering in the bar the night before?
If you don't allready know, Bristol Parkway is the nearest station. Just get on the A38 north from there then dive into the lanes and follow the signs for Aust. It's quite a nice ride.
We stayed here (http://www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/uppersed.html) last year and it was ver ver convenient for the start/finish and far too convenient for the flesh pots of Chepstow.
A numbers of us camped ut they did B&B too.
H
I'm planning to cycle to the start from Severn View. Probably won't have the car- at the moment I'm thinking train to Bristol - but thanks to all for the advice, just in case.
Presumably there is a gentle pre-ride gathering in the bar the night before?
I'm planning to cycle to the start from Severn View. Probably won't have the car- at the moment I'm thinking train to Bristol - but thanks to all for the advice, just in case.Presumably there is a gentle pre-ride gathering in the bar the night before?
I'm not sure there's a bar anywhere at Severn View Services. I was nervous enough that BEER was the last thing I needed before my Welsh debut and went straight to bed.
We stayed here (http://www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/uppersed.html) last year and it was ver ver convenient for the start/finish and far too convenient for the flesh pots of Chepstow.
There's a pub in Aust which is in easy walking distance of SV.
There's a pub in Aust which is in easy walking distance of SV.
Ah yes, good point, must have blanked it after riding past it on the way to SV to avoid temptation. :)
[EDIT] Looking at the map I must have been thinking of the one in Tockington or Olveston. My route avoided most of Aust.
[There's a pub in Aust which is in easy walking distance of SV.Theres a pub in Menai which is in
Will be entering the BCM this year if the Winter has gone by then!
Have I heard correctly that there is a bag drop service on the BCM? I have the routesheet and am starting to plan the ride. Wanted to make sure I wasn't missing anything.
Also, with the YHA, is it just a matter of fall asleep where there's a spare square metre or so?
You can book a bed and a wake-up call when you arrive. Ian (or whoever is running the place this year) keeps a log of what beds are spare.
Have I heard correctly that there is a bag drop service on the BCM? I have the routesheet and am starting to plan the ride. Wanted to make sure I wasn't missing anything.
Also, with the YHA, is it just a matter of fall asleep where there's a spare square metre or so?
You can book a bed and a wake-up call when you arrive. Ian (or whoever is running the place this year) keeps a log of what beds are spare. Just hope the person who slept before you wasn't wet.
Strangly the top bunks were totally dry, I'm assuming that by that stage no-one had the leg muscles to climb the ladder. Absolutely superb to be able to grab an hour or so in a real bed. Total BCM luxury.
Have I heard correctly that there is a bag drop service on the BCM? I have the routesheet and am starting to plan the ride. Wanted to make sure I wasn't missing anything.
Also, with the YHA, is it just a matter of fall asleep where there's a spare square metre or so?
Tip. As you turn left towards the YHA, it's a very sharp "hairpin" left into a very steep climb, as steep as anything on the ride. Engage 1st gear before you turn left or your thighs will not thank you.
Have I heard correctly that there is a bag drop service on the BCM?
I didn't even make it to the yha on the way out last year, never mind the way back! I have some unfinished business with this ride.
We stayed here (http://www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/uppersed.html) last year and it was ver ver convenient for the start/finish and far too convenient for the flesh pots of Chepstow.
A numbers of us camped ut they did B&B too.
H
You can book a bed and a wake-up call when you arrive. Ian (or whoever is running the place this year) keeps a log of what beds are spare.
"Stringfellows" nightclub are holding their annual "Miss erotic Dancer" competition in Dolgellau YHA that same weekend (note 7) so there's a degree of bed-sharing required
"Stringfellows" nightclub are holding their annual "Miss erotic Dancer" competition in Dolgellau YHA that same weekend (note 7) so there's a degree of bed-sharing required
and you could contemplate cycling another 300K - after "bed sharing" with an erotic dancer - you are a much fitter man than me Sir !!
You can book a bed and a wake-up call when you arrive. Ian (or whoever is running the place this year) keeps a log of what beds are spare.
I was rather hoping to ride this year.
(and ~I'm not sure you could accuse me of 'running' the control).
"Stringfellows" nightclub are holding their annual "Miss erotic Dancer" competition in Dolgellau YHA that same weekend (note 7) so there's a degree of bed-sharing required
and you could contemplate cycling another 300K - after "bed sharing" with an erotic dancer - you are a much fitter man than me Sir !!
I'm hoping that Britain is due a dry year by now.
I'm hoping that Britain is due a dry year by now.
Yep, with the exception of Wales obviously...
It always rains on the Chapman though. Even if it's just a spot or two.
It always rains on the Chapman though. Even if it's just a spot or two.
.... Does anyone remember the ride in 2004 ? ? ? ? Or have you all forgotton
2007 was wet for the first 5-6 hours. Afternoon of day 2 was great. Sat outside on the grass in Weobly in the sun eating ice creams
It always rains on the Chapman though. Even if it's just a spot or two.
.... Does anyone remember the ride in 2004 ? ? ? ? Or have you all forgotton
I got rained on between Tre'r Ddol and Dolgellau that year...just a few spots but it did its best to ensure an unbroken record. Nothing serious though, and I agree that the rest of the ride was glorious.
The only totally dry one* I've done in a decade was the perm version, in July 2006.
*2000 might have been dry actually, but I can't quite recall.
Permanent or just a long, long time ago?
Permanent or just a long, long time ago?
2004 was good, save a couple of spots.
Hasthis eventWales ever had decent weather?
Surprised that there isnt a thread up on this yet
with it being only 4-weeks awayOnly 4 weeks? Sounds so different to 'next month'. Gulp! Better focus on losing those last few lbs.
Is there an online map of the route available. The bikely one only seems to show half of the route and I wanted to do a bit of interactive planning.
Yeah, that doesn't work for me. I inevitably end up following people either too fast or too slow.For me, all rides are better with company. I really really enjoyed BCM600 in 2007. I spent most of the time with Tuggo, simonb and steve underpants. We stuck together, hooked up with other riders from time to time, including Mal Volio, and had a real blast.
I have a rather bad habit of thinking that I don't need to stop and get drinks, food etc just yet and I'll get it in the next town/village only to discover that ...... there is nothing for 82k after the Menai control (which I think demonstrates your point!).
Yeah, that doesn't work for me. I inevitably end up following people either too fast or too slow.
Following the routesheet isn't a problem for me though. I just like to do a bit of research on the route and it's surroundings before the day so that I can make plans.
I have a rather bad habit of thinking that I don't need to stop and get drinks, food etc just yet and I'll get it in the next town/village only to discover that it's just a wide place in the road with a post office that closes ten minutes before you arrive and a pub that opens in three hours and end up riding hungry and dehydrated. I need to make notes on where I can and where I absolutely cannot refuel and where those places are just off the route that are resplendent with fine vittals. A little knowledge goes a long way.
Yeah, that doesn't work for me. I inevitably end up following people either too fast or too slow.
Following the routesheet isn't a problem for me though. I just like to do a bit of research on the route and it's surroundings before the day so that I can make plans.
I have a rather bad habit of thinking that I don't need to stop and get drinks, food etc just yet and I'll get it in the next town/village only to discover that it's just a wide place in the road with a post office that closes ten minutes before you arrive and a pub that opens in three hours and end up riding hungry and dehydrated. I need to make notes on where I can and where I absolutely cannot refuel and where those places are just off the route that are resplendent with fine vittals. A little knowledge goes a long way.
if it's warm (ha!) be prepared to be creative in order to stock up on water.
if it's warm (ha!) be prepared to be creative in order to stock up on water.
Yeah, I was just planning on leaving the top off one of my water bottles.
if it's warm (ha!) be prepared to be creative in order to stock up on water.
Yeah, I was just planning on leaving the top off one of my water bottles.
Beddgelert (pubs, shop if early enough I think) is the last of it before Llanberis (and there you may have to rely on pubs).Pen-y-pass YH is useful Northbound - they have a bar (and I guess faster riders could choose to use it Southbound :P )
Not much between Llanberis and Menai control (24 hour petrol station in Menai if I remember correctly).
Nothing really between Menai and Beddgelert again, and probably nothing open at o'dark thirty.
Same again for Beddgelert to the Youth Hostel at Dolgellau.
If you're that fast, there's a pub on the Southbound route between Menai and Beddgelert.
Surprised that there isnt a thread up on this yet with it being only 4-weeks away and counting.
Just sent my entry off today.
I was led astray last year and rode the YH - Menai - YH loop the wrong way round, I don't know where it was as it was Dark and Wet but I had a lovely tray of Egg Fried Rice with Sweet & Sour MSG with a cup of tea in a take away with my two companions on the way back :thumbsup:
<edit> Sorry Greenbank <edit>
We saw someone there coming back before 7 pm in 2007 :o
We saw someone there coming back before 7 pm in 2007 :o
Looking at the 2007 results list (for the 2004 route) I'd have a guess at one Nikolaus Gardiner.
I was led astray last year and rode the YH - Menai - YH loop the wrong way round, I don't know where it was as it was Dark and Wet but I had a lovely tray of Egg Fried Rice with Sweet & Sour MSG with a cup of tea in a take away with my two companions on the way back :thumbsup:
Looking at the 2007 results list (for the 2004 route) I'd have a guess at one Nikolaus Gardiner.
That's actually quite tempting. I've ridden the pass several times now on different rides dropping down into Llanberis, it'd make a change to do it the other way.
Route sheet arrived, but nothing else with it. ???
is anything missing ???
Route sheet arrived, but nothing else with it. ???
is anything missing ???
We saw someone there coming back before 7 pm in 2007 :o
Looking at the 2007 results list (for the 2004 route) I'd have a guess at one Nikolaus Gardiner.
Indeed. I heard (chinese whisper style, possibly) that he was doing it as training for the Mersey 24 that year, and that he was back at Bulwark inside 24hrs. Maybe Mr Blacksheep knows the true myth?
A quick google tells me Nik won the Mersey in 2004, 2005 and 2006 but lost out to Eamonn Deane in 2007.
Mark used to send out a extra blurb sheet as well, but this time it's just the route sheet
:thumbsup:Mark used to send out a extra blurb sheet as well, but this time it's just the route sheet
There were numerous reasons for not sending out the blurb, some eco, some financial, some logistical.
Probably the main reason being (and toys are staying firmly in the pram)
...
- comparitively few cyclists ever took heed of the text. Sure - some thanked me for the 'ahead-up' info, but others were bordering on the abusive.I've got an old copy in front of me - it was very useful. Far more detail than I expected, but you only have to read it once! But as you say, it's not essential for riding/enjoying the event.
If any one feels the need to see it, I could post it here. Or PM me and I'll send it to you.
Probably the main reason being (and toys are staying firmly in the pram) - comparitively few cyclists ever took heed of the text. Sure - some thanked me for the 'ahead-up' info, but others were bordering on the abusive.
I would certainly appreciate it if you posted it up here. It may yet prove useful.
Probably the main reason being (and toys are staying firmly in the pram) - comparitively few cyclists ever took heed of the text. Sure - some thanked me for the 'ahead-up' info, but others were bordering on the abusive.
I'm genuinely amazed that anyone would be abusive about being offered information. It's beyond ridiculous.
I would certainly appreciate it if you posted it up here. It may yet prove useful.
I would certainly appreciate it if you posted it up here. It may yet prove useful.
As would I.
Does anyone have a spare Severn View Travelodge bed for the Friday night before the ride?
Simon,NonSeldom-snorer.
There is a huge amount of knowledge, wisdom and <evidence of> hard work in that!
I'm appalled that some arrogant riders took exception.
If they don't appreciate it, there's always the round file for it.
What total pricks!
Reading it reminds me of of all the aspects of a long, hard Audax challenge.
I DNS the Bryan Chapman the only time I entered. I was up at work all night on the preceding Thursday and thought riding would have been unwise.
Keep up the good work!
There is a huge amount of knowledge, wisdom and <evidence of> hard work in that!
... Keep up the good work!
Sorry Ben, but I'm sorted now.
I presume you can actually get over the severn bridge on a bike? (only it's a m-way on google maps)
...
...I presume you can actually get over the severn bridge on a bike? (only it's a m-way on google maps)
There is a huge amount of knowledge, wisdom and <evidence of> hard work in that!
I'm appalled that some arrogant riders took exception.
If they don't appreciate it, there's always the round file for it.
What total pricks!
Reading it reminds me of of all the aspects of a long, hard Audax challenge.
I DNS the Bryan Chapman the only time I entered. I was up at work all night on the preceding Thursday and thought riding would have been unwise.
Keep up the good work!
+1
Thanks Mark
Sound advice
I don't see what there is to get upset about.
A supremely useful guide which will turn itself into some highlighted notes on my route sheet. Thanks Mark
Stage four to Menai Bridge. Before leaving the YHA control it maybe wise to take stock of bonk rations, as you will now be heading into the evening, and shops are few and far between. Once you’re back on the main road, this year it’s a right turn. The path from the tollbooth exiting straight on to the main A496 was considered an avoidable risk. So now keep your eyes peeled for the ‘George III PH on left, the toll bridge across the river is adjacent to it. Once over the estuary – it’s left onto the A496, through Barmouth, and on to Harlech along the coast. This year you’ll turn right at Harlech onto the B4573, the route is marginally shorter and easier; you’ll also avoid two potentially hazardous level crossings.
QuoteStage four to Menai Bridge. Before leaving the YHA control it maybe wise to take stock of bonk rations, as you will now be heading into the evening, and shops are few and far between. Once you’re back on the main road, this year it’s a right turn. The path from the tollbooth exiting straight on to the main A496 was considered an avoidable risk. So now keep your eyes peeled for the ‘George III PH on left, the toll bridge across the river is adjacent to it. Once over the estuary – it’s left onto the A496, through Barmouth, and on to Harlech along the coast. This year you’ll turn right at Harlech onto the B4573, the route is marginally shorter and easier; you’ll also avoid two potentially hazardous level crossings.
This had me slightly confused - it's been this way for years, hasn't it? Nothing changed recently?
QuoteStage four to Menai Bridge. Before leaving the YHA control it maybe wise to take stock of bonk rations, as you will now be heading into the evening, and shops are few and far between. Once you’re back on the main road, this year it’s a right turn. The path from the tollbooth exiting straight on to the main A496 was considered an avoidable risk. So now keep your eyes peeled for the ‘George III PH on left, the toll bridge across the river is adjacent to it. Once over the estuary – it’s left onto the A496, through Barmouth, and on to Harlech along the coast. This year you’ll turn right at Harlech onto the B4573, the route is marginally shorter and easier; you’ll also avoid two potentially hazardous level crossings.
This had me slightly confused - it's been this way for years, hasn't it? Nothing changed recently?
Quite right SimonP. As I just posted, the notes posted were from a ride a few years ago, I picked the wrong set. It's the sentiment that needs to be followed, not the exact route as detailed in text.
There's just one further point which I think may (should?) be interesting to riders - who was Bryan Chapman, and why is this ride his memorial? Many of these bits of folk wisdom get lost - or at least known only to the 'ancien(ne)s'. Many (most?) entrants won't know, which rather defeats the object of a 'memorial' ride.
NB - not intending to create extra work for Mark here - I'm sure there are others who could fill in the background.
There's just one further point which I think may (should?) be interesting to riders - who was Bryan Chapman, and why is this ride his memorial? Many of these bits of folk wisdom get lost - or at least known only to the 'ancien(ne)s'. Many (most?) entrants won't know, which rather defeats the object of a 'memorial' ride.
NB - not intending to create extra work for Mark here - I'm sure there are others who could fill in the background.
Track down a copy of Arrivee No 64 (Spring 1999) if you can. Bryan's story is told by Pat Aldridge on p.19. Basically, he (along with Pauline Porter) was the originator of the Chepstow-Anglesey-Chepstow 600 in 1984, and one of the early members of AUK. The ride was renamed in his memory after his death in 1989.
...............................
Who's going to volunteer to help this year. Charlotte and co did a sterling job last year and didn't complain once about me getting in the way...at least, not to my face.
So who do you think ?
John Durham :-\
So who do you think ?
Gordon Brown might have a bit of free times on his hands towards the end of the month....
............................... it is probably madness!Either an oximoron or a catch 22 situation ?? ?? ??
QuoteStage four to Menai Bridge. Before leaving the YHA control it maybe wise to take stock of bonk rations, as you will now be heading into the evening, and shops are few and far between. Once you’re back on the main road, this year it’s a right turn. The path from the tollbooth exiting straight on to the main A496 was considered an avoidable risk. So now keep your eyes peeled for the ‘George III PH on left, the toll bridge across the river is adjacent to it. Once over the estuary – it’s left onto the A496, through Barmouth, and on to Harlech along the coast. This year you’ll turn right at Harlech onto the B4573, the route is marginally shorter and easier; you’ll also avoid two potentially hazardous level crossings.
This had me slightly confused - it's been this way for years, hasn't it? Nothing changed recently?
Quite right SimonP. As I just posted, the notes posted were from a ride a few years ago, I picked the wrong set. It's the sentiment that needs to be followed, not the exact route as detailed in text.
Got my routesheet today. Will try to remember to bring it this time. :)
Got my routesheet today. Will try to remember to bring it this time. :)
2004? Do you want a gpx route?
BACK TO THE REAL WORLD. I'm being PMed on a couple of specific points.
Is there a bag drop? and how big can the bag be Yes there's a bag drop at Dolgellau - because that's the 200 & 400 km point of the ride. And cyclists would probably need it here rather than Aberhafesp at 400 and about 60 more km.
Please make the bag as small as possible. Last year someone wanted a M198 Howitzer transported ::-). So not much else got moved to Dolgellau. Practically a bag 300mm by 400mm should be more than large enough for your needs.
Thanks for this. I will be using the bag drop. Is there anything we can do to help you and the volunteers on this, such as a big label with our names clearly printed on to help reduce 400k grumpy panic?
I'm planning on hiding in my drop bag when I arrive at kings. Danial has offered to carry my brevet card round for a tenner
After I saw the recommendation earlier in this thread and looking for somewhere to camp, I emailed the Upper Sedbury Farm early this morning and got no reply so I've just tried phoning them only to get a continuous "this phone is deceased" tone. Does anyone know if they are still in business and just have a temporarily dead phone line? Are there any other recommended campsites? Thanks in anticipation, Steve Berry
After I saw the recommendation earlier in this thread and looking for somewhere to camp, I emailed the Upper Sedbury Farm early this morning and got no reply so I've just tried phoning them only to get a continuous "this phone is deceased" tone. Does anyone know if they are still in business and just have a temporarily dead phone line? Are there any other recommended campsites? Thanks in anticipation, Steve Berry
Does anyone have a gpx of either the 2004 or Scenic routes please.
I'm always being promised a set, but they never seem to materialise.
If you could PM to me, I would be very grateful.
Ref Upper Sedbury Farm - I got through on their landline today and I have a pitch for my tent on Friday night. Thanks for the replies. Now it's just fingers crossed my entry posted on Friday got to Mark in time......
Well, it didn't really get to me in time - the closing date for entries was the 15th of May. But fortunately there were spaces, so your route sheet is on it's way back to you.
4th May? I think we're riding it on the 15th ;D
You're going to be spending close to 40 hours outside in Wales in May. What difference is the weather forecast going to make?
You're going to be spending close to 40 hours outside in Wales in May. What difference is the weather forecast going to make?
How near to the event is it ok to be frightened (off) by metcheck's forecast.
How near to the event is it ok to be frightened (off) by metcheck's forecast.
If I trusted Metcheck's long-range forcasts (or even their short-range ones) I'd never set foot outside my front door.
Metcheck seems to use some form of Automation to calculate their forecasts that bypasses human experience and therefore throws up some daft predictions.
After 4 years of Audaxing I now just about trust the Met Office and BBC to get the weather about right for the next day. One week in advance is just too much for even the most powerful Cray computer.
My own prediction is:
Overcast with occasional showers followed by heavy rain showers and gusty winds. Temperatures dropping to near freezing overnight with occasional downpours. Sleet over highground in Snowdonia and high winds. Some sunny spells mixed with occasional light showers, gusty wind and heavy downpours on Sunday.
I didn't use a Cray for that by the way.
How near to the event is it ok to be frightened (off) by metcheck's forecast.
Google.Maps.com predicts there to be hills.
uk.weather.com say, for Builth Wells:
15 May
Forecast
Partly Cloudy
High 12°C
Low 4°C
Chance of Precip.
20 %
Find Local Events
16 May
Forecast
Mostly Cloudy
High 12°C
Low 5°C
Chance of Precip.
20 %
I'll take that. ;D
Google.Maps.com predicts there to be hills.
Google.Maps.com predicts there to be hills.
Similar to last year.
Still cant be as bad as that other crazy ride over there. Just imaging getting to the end of the BC and doing another 400.
C'est impossible.
I'm going to come first in an Audax!
I'm declaring myself to be the first to DNS the Bryan Chapman 2010 as I've been off the bike for the past three weeks and have decided that 9800m of climbing probably isn't what I want to be doing at present.
I'm planning a nice short ride to the seaside on the Denmead 400 instead.
The Mapsource version?
Ok 8300m not 9800m - it's still quite a lot.
I'm in. Not ridden farther than 300km since 2008. But hey!
I'm in. Not ridden farther than 300km since 2008. But hey!
Ah, my tow to Bronllys!
Who else will be savouring the delights of the Severn View travelodge on the Friday night? The food selection there wasn't impressive when I stopped off a few weeks ago. I'd be interested if anyone knows of anywhere else worth eating within walking distance....
I'm declaring myself to be the first to DNS the Bryan Chapman 2010 as I've been off the bike for the past three weeks and have decided that 9800m of climbing probably isn't what I want to be doing at present.
Who else will be savouring the delights of the Severn View travelodge on the Friday night? The food selection there wasn't impressive when I stopped off a few weeks ago. I'd be interested if anyone knows of anywhere else worth eating within walking distance....
I'll be at the Travelodge on Friday night too. Not quite within walking distance, but if you are cycling from Bristol Parkway, you can stop off at the Bowl Inn (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Almondsbury,+Bristol&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=16.052594,40.605469&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Almondsbury,+Bristol,+Avon,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.554584,-2.572819&spn=0.01657,0.039654&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.554637,-2.572669&panoid=Bsz6jR2jX7ktwcojIiVkBg&cbp=12,113.26,,0,6.83) near Almondsbury for an evening meal. Friendly, and cheapish pub food. I ate there last year before the Brian Chapman with Peter Marshall. Certainly much better than anything Aust has to offer.
You know what... as it Tuesday tomorrow Id better sort out some accommodation. With the near freezing temperatures forecast sounds like a perfect night for camping, where's number?
Who else will be savouring the delights of the Severn View travelodge on the Friday night? The food selection there wasn't impressive when I stopped off a few weeks ago. I'd be interested if anyone knows of anywhere else worth eating within walking distance....
I'll be at the Travelodge on Friday night too. Not quite within walking distance, but if you are cycling from Bristol Parkway, you can stop off at the Bowl Inn (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Almondsbury,+Bristol&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=16.052594,40.605469&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Almondsbury,+Bristol,+Avon,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.554584,-2.572819&spn=0.01657,0.039654&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.554637,-2.572669&panoid=Bsz6jR2jX7ktwcojIiVkBg&cbp=12,113.26,,0,6.83) near Almondsbury for an evening meal. Friendly, and cheapish pub food. I ate there last year before the Brian Chapman with Peter Marshall. Certainly much better than anything Aust has to offer.
That's a good idea. I'm getting to Bristol Parkway quite early this time - 16:39. I'll have time to kill. :)
Really?!? I thought the Boars Head was lovely - good beer anyway, I was too late for food, but it looked nice. Other BC400 riders stayed there, but all went to bed before I arrived.Who else will be savouring the delights of the Severn View travelodge on the Friday night? The food selection there wasn't impressive when I stopped off a few weeks ago. I'd be interested if anyone knows of anywhere else worth eating within walking distance....
I'll be at the Travelodge on Friday night too. Not quite within walking distance, but if you are cycling from Bristol Parkway, you can stop off at the Bowl Inn (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Almondsbury,+Bristol&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=16.052594,40.605469&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Almondsbury,+Bristol,+Avon,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.554584,-2.572819&spn=0.01657,0.039654&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.554637,-2.572669&panoid=Bsz6jR2jX7ktwcojIiVkBg&cbp=12,113.26,,0,6.83) near Almondsbury for an evening meal. Friendly, and cheapish pub food. I ate there last year before the Brian Chapman with Peter Marshall. Certainly much better than anything Aust has to offer.
Ah, my tow to Bronllys!
Going by your apparent form around the End of Hibernation, I was rather hoping it'd be the reverse!
Really?!? I thought the Boars Head was lovely - good beer anyway, I was too late for food, but it looked nice. Other BC400 riders stayed there, but all went to bed before I arrived.Who else will be savouring the delights of the Severn View travelodge on the Friday night? The food selection there wasn't impressive when I stopped off a few weeks ago. I'd be interested if anyone knows of anywhere else worth eating within walking distance....
I'll be at the Travelodge on Friday night too. Not quite within walking distance, but if you are cycling from Bristol Parkway, you can stop off at the Bowl Inn (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Almondsbury,+Bristol&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=16.052594,40.605469&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Almondsbury,+Bristol,+Avon,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.554584,-2.572819&spn=0.01657,0.039654&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.554637,-2.572669&panoid=Bsz6jR2jX7ktwcojIiVkBg&cbp=12,113.26,,0,6.83) near Almondsbury for an evening meal. Friendly, and cheapish pub food. I ate there last year before the Brian Chapman with Peter Marshall. Certainly much better than anything Aust has to offer.
A short walk from the Travelodge.
Really?!? I thought the Boars Head was lovely - good beer anyway, I was too late for food, but it looked nice. Other BC400 riders stayed there, but all went to bed before I arrived.Who else will be savouring the delights of the Severn View travelodge on the Friday night? The food selection there wasn't impressive when I stopped off a few weeks ago. I'd be interested if anyone knows of anywhere else worth eating within walking distance....
I'll be at the Travelodge on Friday night too. Not quite within walking distance, but if you are cycling from Bristol Parkway, you can stop off at the Bowl Inn (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Almondsbury,+Bristol&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=16.052594,40.605469&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Almondsbury,+Bristol,+Avon,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.554584,-2.572819&spn=0.01657,0.039654&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.554637,-2.572669&panoid=Bsz6jR2jX7ktwcojIiVkBg&cbp=12,113.26,,0,6.83) near Almondsbury for an evening meal. Friendly, and cheapish pub food. I ate there last year before the Brian Chapman with Peter Marshall. Certainly much better than anything Aust has to offer.
A short walk from the Travelodge.
I'm staying at the Cribbs Causeway Travelodge which is only a couple of clicks away.
I'll be at the Travelodge on Friday night too. Not quite within walking distance, but if you are cycling from Bristol Parkway, you can stop off at the Bowl Inn (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Almondsbury,+Bristol&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=16.052594,40.605469&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Almondsbury,+Bristol,+Avon,+United+Kingdom&ll=51.554584,-2.572819&spn=0.01657,0.039654&z=15&layer=c&cbll=51.554637,-2.572669&panoid=Bsz6jR2jX7ktwcojIiVkBg&cbp=12,113.26,,0,6.83) near Almondsbury for an evening meal. Friendly, and cheapish pub food. I ate there last year before the Brian Chapman with Peter Marshall. Certainly much better than anything Aust has to offer.Really?!? I thought the Boars Head was lovely - good beer anyway, I was too late for food, but it looked nice. Other BC400 riders stayed there, but all went to bed before I arrived.
A short walk from the Travelodge.
I'm staying at the Cribbs Causeway Travelodge which is only a couple of clicks away.
I'm at that travelodge on Friday night, maybe meet up in the morning to ride in?
I'll be arriving late though - intend leaving home around 7pm to ride the 140km to the 'lodge. I reckon about 20km to the start from there, so will probably leave about 4:30-ish in order to get there in time to eat as much of Mark's food as possible.
You know what... as it Tuesday tomorrow Id better sort out some accommodation. With the near freezing temperatures forecast sounds like a perfect night for camping, where's number?
same place as last year?
Upper Sedbury House, Sedbury, Chepstow
(http://www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/uppersed.html)
i'll be there about 6-ish
Is it possible to leave stuff at the start over the weekend? I'm wondering what to do with my tent and sleeping bag.
That makes it look amazingly civilised. Don't bank on getting anything anywhere between Menai and Dolgellau on the return, then nothing again for several tens of miles.
Lots :)
Full catering service at the YH both ways, plus breakfast after you've had a sleep
That makes it look amazingly civilised. Don't bank on getting anything anywhere between Menai and Dolgellau on the return, then nothing again for several tens of miles.
On the last 30 k you have shops/cafes in Monmouth, plus shops at Redbrook, Llandogo and Tintern if you're in time. Otherwise, loads of pubs.
Not sure if this of use to anyone but thought I would put it up here for reference.
This is a list of places off controls that you should be able to get food based on using Google Street View.
Exiting Bronllys, petrol station for snacks before the control.
Rhayader, Coffee shop on R entering town. Newsagents after crossroads.
Llangurig - Village Shop Has bizarre opening hours. I think it shuts at lunchtime. There's a couple of pubs though
Ponterwyd - Petrol Station Red kite cafe on right at 1.2 mile after Ponterwyd, Nant yr Arian forestry centre has a cafe about a mile after that
Machynlleth - Petrol Station on way out. Quite a few shops/cafes if needed
Barmouth - Assorted shops And an ice cream and doughnut van.
Llanbedr - Village Stores
Harlech - Shops and chippy
Penrhyndeudraeth - Spar til 11pm
Beddgelert - Chippy L after bridge
Llanberis - Some shops, no sign of listed petrol station Pete's Eats!!! There's a spar or co-op in the village as well
B4547 - Petrol station about two miles along
A mile detour will also get you to the 24 hour Tesco in Bangor at the roundabout after Y Felinheli. Sunday trading hours still apply though. There's a Waitrose opposite the control in Menai Bridge.
A470 at A4212 - Prysor Service Station
Mallwyd - A458 - Service Station with cafe
Plas Llysyn - Spar
Caersws - Minor Diversion - Petrol Station
Newtown - Shops, 24hr garage etc
Knighton - Shops, Cafes
A480 - Wyevale Garden Centre continue off route and then take A480 to Bridge Sollers and rejoin route.
I've included places that are close to manned controls for picking up portable supplies if needed. I make no guarantee of places being open, particularly in Wales on a Sunday. Also the checking was based on the bikely route provided by Mr. Greenbank so may not be applicable if this is not the route now taken.
Is it possible to leave stuff at the start over the weekend? I'm wondering what to do with my tent and sleeping bag.
There's a room which isn't normally used, or a corner in the hall. Should be OK for that.
Tents have been left standing on the grass around he back of the hall, and survived - I was amazed, but the owners un-fazed. (I'm a poet but didn't know it ;D)
Jasmine, thanks for the additions.What additions?
Jasmine, thanks for the additions.What additions?
Llangurig - Village Shopthere is also a pub in llangurig which is open late sat nights, and (might) have beds, i know 'cos i retired in there on packing last years cambrian
Llangurig - Village Shopthere is also a pub in llangurig which is open late sat nights, and (might) have beds, i know 'cos i retired in there on packing last years cambrian
er... Beer, can't remember what sort I'm afraid but I would hazard a guess that a pint of it might not render you too incapacitated to continue [if you aren't already incapacitated], if that's any help.Llangurig - Village Shopthere is also a pub in llangurig which is open late sat nights, and (might) have beds, i know 'cos i retired in there on packing last years cambrian
I don't imagine that I'll be in Llangurig on Sat night unless I stop at the pup for lunch and things decline from there. Do you know what they have on tap.
er... Beer, can't remember what sort I'm afraid but I would hazard a guess that a pint of it might not render you too incapacitated to continue [if you aren't already incapacitated], if that's any help.
I think there may also have been a mangy dog on the floor but don't quote me on that.
There's a shop in Llanbrynmair - useful for day two, this is a life saver for me - and personally speaking the only shop I use on the entire route barring controls (or their substitutes).
That's (a tough) 43km from Dol' YHA (which closes at 0824), and another 22k to the next control. Useful.There's a shop in Llanbrynmair - useful for day two, this is a life saver for me - and personally speaking the only shop I use on the entire route barring controls (or their substitutes).
It would seem that I have also managed to miss the cafe in the same village. It's at the Machinations museum of automation and open all year round 9.30 to 4.30, which should suit some riders.
I'm at that travelodge on Friday night, maybe meet up in the morning to ride in?
I'll be arriving late though - intend leaving home around 7pm to ride the 140km to the 'lodge. I reckon about 20km to the start from there, so will probably leave about 4:30-ish in order to get there in time to eat as much of Mark's food as possible.
I'm not asnuttyhardcore as you so I will be driving to the Travelodge. I don't want to leave my car there (and I am also staying at Severn View on the Sunday night) so I will be driving to the start and leaving it at the hall as per last year. You're more than welcome to a lift to the start if that doesn't smack too much of girlishness! ;D
It would seem that I have also managed to miss the cafe in the same village. It's at the Machinations museum of automation and open all year round 9.30 to 4.30, which should suit some riders.That's (a tough) 43km from Dol' YHA (which closes at 0824), and another 22k to the next control. Useful.
Fantastic that so many places have been noted on the route.
There's a shop in Llanbrynmair - useful for day two, this is a life saver for me - and personally speaking the only shop I use on the entire route barring controls (or their substitutes).
It's dead easy to miss, but as you're in Llanbrynmair, take the b-road left turn to Staylittle. and it's imm on the right.
They do hot and cold stuff.
Let me suck yours and I'll call out the food stops as they come up.
I have entered this year's 2004 route (aka 'non-scenic') of the BCM. Having my route sheet not in front of I am wondering whether this bikely track (Bicycle Path - Audax Bryan Chapman 2004 route at Bikely.com (http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Audax-Bryan-Chapman-2004-route)) is the 2004 route for 2010?
I have entered this year's 2004 route (aka 'non-scenic') of the BCM. Having my route sheet not in front of I am wondering whether this bikely track (Bicycle Path - Audax Bryan Chapman 2004 route at Bikely.com (http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Audax-Bryan-Chapman-2004-route)) is the 2004 route for 2010?The difference is between Usk and Crickhowell on the first stage - that track follows the older route through Abergavenny and straight down the A40; the current route deviates in Llanfair Kilgeddin and goes through Llanfair Cross and Llanellen to Llanfoist, Govillon and Gilwern, then crosses the bridge at Crickhowell to pick up the old route along the A40.
I have entered this year's 2004 route (aka 'non-scenic') of the BCM. Having my route sheet not in front of I am wondering whether this bikely track (Bicycle Path - Audax Bryan Chapman 2004 route at Bikely.com (http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Audax-Bryan-Chapman-2004-route)) is the 2004 route for 2010?
Not quite
The difference is between Usk and Crickhowell on the first stage - that track follows the older route through Abergavenny and straight down the A40; the current route deviates in Llanfair Kilgeddin and goes through Llanfair Cross and Llanellen to Llanfoist, Govillon and Gilwern, then crosses the bridge at Crickhowell to pick up the old route along the A40.
Apart from that I think it's the same...
You really need to do the Irish Mail if John runs it next year - you do that bit of road in the afternoon, which is much more pleasant.Oh, I should think it'll be on. Week after the BCM is pencilled in the diary.
??? my routesheet follow the bikely track (B4598)I have entered this year's 2004 route (aka 'non-scenic') of the BCM. Having my route sheet not in front of I am wondering whether this bikely track (Bicycle Path - Audax Bryan Chapman 2004 route at Bikely.com (http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Audax-Bryan-Chapman-2004-route)) is the 2004 route for 2010?Not quite
The difference is between Usk and Crickhowell on the first stage - that track follows the older route through Abergavenny and straight down the A40; the current route deviates in Llanfair Kilgeddin and goes through Llanfair Cross and Llanellen to Llanfoist, Govillon and Gilwern, then crosses the bridge at Crickhowell to pick up the old route along the A40.
Apart from that I think it's the same...
It does.
Sorry - it's reverted back.
The Bikely track is correct :)
Mostly NW winds may mean a struggle to, and up, the coast on Saturday but a push all the way home.
Not sure if this of use to anyone but thought I would put it up here for reference.There is a cafe called "the halt" I think which is just before the turn for the scenic on the road to Rhayader
This is a list of places off controls that you should be able to get food based on using Google Street View.
Exiting Bronllys, petrol station for snacks before the control.
Rhayader, Coffee shop on R entering town. Newsagents after crossroads.There is a bizarre garage just after Llangurig that has hand painted signs and plants for sale outside.
Llangurig - Village Shop
Mostly NW winds may mean a struggle to, and up, the coast on Saturday but a push all the way home.
There is a bizarre garage just after Llangurig that has hand painted signs and plants for sale outside.
It does Lucazade and stuff like that as well
There is also at least one cafe along this road (A44)
Mostly NW winds may mean a struggle to, and up, the coast on Saturday but a push all the way home.
I doubt it will be too much of a struggle, the winds are forecast to be only 10-12mph. Also; as it's Wales, we'll be sheltered on the leeward side of mountains.
Unless of course you're riding up the valley's between them in which case the wind will be funnelled straight into your face (well, it was last year...).
There is a bizarre garage just after Llangurig that has hand painted signs and plants for sale outside.
It does Lucazade and stuff like that as well
There is also at least one cafe along this road (A44)
That was a 150km control on the Two Transporter Bridges (?) 600km I believe. I sure needed a Tr'Dol fryup by the time I got there. A Mars bar and a lucozade sitting on the pavement just didn't cut it...
Is it Duffers?
And one of the 8) est guys in AUK - Iddu, will be waiting for you at Arrivee
So does this mean you will be riding it this year Blacksheep?
Boar's Head in Aust for me.
Food and Beer are perfectly fine and it's nice to have a walk there and back.
Boar's Head in Aust for me.
Food and Beer are perfectly fine and it's nice to have a walk there and back.
It seems the consensus is the Boar's Head in Aust then. What time are people planning to get there?
have a good ride one and all! May cross your paths as we head up to the Smallholders show at Builth (Annual pilgrimage) - Driving sorry.... :thumbsup:
Anyone with any sense takes the boughrood road anyway
Just to clarify, you take B4350 at Boughood, then B4567 to Builth, but you still end up on A470 just as it passes the RWSG? (I understand the aim being to avoid the 20km of heavy traffic approaching it, rather than avoid the grounds themselves)
It's a no brainer to take this road
While we're on the topic of bypassing the A470, is it worth avoiding the A470 north of Rhayader by taking the minor road to the west of the main road like so: http://tinyurl.com/34aeyrl (http://tinyurl.com/34aeyrl)?
Thing1
Yes,
TR onto B4350 sp BOUGHROOD by Bridge End Inn
TL onto Station Road sp Painscastle.
L@T onto B4567 sp Llanfaredd (I think GSV is blurry)
L@T onto A481 sp BUILTH WELLS
2e Rdb sp BUILTH WELLS
L@T onto A483 sp BUITH WELLS
Then you'll rejoin the A470 at Builth
This does mean that you'll miss Builth for food but there is a Little Chef and petrol station as you rejoin the A470 if you're in need.
[it's a pretty road, but it has a grass stripe down the middle.
Fantastically helpful. Just plotted that out on the map and looks much more enjoyable even without the farmers
It'll be a chilly start and overnight temperatures may take a dive in exposed areas so I'm taking the overshoes anyway for insulation.
... After Llandovery it was just cold, wet and nasty for all and a time for some winter layers, made worse for a deep dark with an obliterated moon.
...
Also cannot steep enough praise on the Bwlch team headed by Richard Evans. That night control proved the making of the event as most arrived exhausted, wet and cold
The night before a 600, you should be in bed at midnight not arsing around on yafc
The night before a 600, you should be in bed at midnight not arsing around on yafc
It'll be a chilly start and overnight temperatures may take a dive in exposed areas so I'm taking the overshoes anyway for insulation.
and an extra sock
It's a possibility although the last time I wore one was -10 in Canada so I may not need it.
it's a pretty road, but it has a grass stripe down the middle. Will cost you an hour or maybe more. Probably better to take the Scenic route through Elan and avoid that main road and the a44. But it will cost you a chunk of time
At -10 you wouldn't need to wipe. Just break it off.
There looks to be a band of rain forecast for the early hours of Sun, and it *will* be cold in Snowdonia...
Just to clarify, you take B4350 at Boughood, then B4567 to Builth, but you still end up on A470 just as it passes the RWSG? (I understand the aim being to avoid the 20km of heavy traffic approaching it, rather than avoid the grounds themselves)
Isn't that the Scenic route for that particular section?
Yes: Bicycle Path - AUDAX: Bryan Chapman Memorial 2009 (Scenic), Stages 1-3 (4280m) at Bikely.com (http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/AUDAX-Bryan-Chapman-Memorial-2009-Scenic-4280m)
I've no idea how different it is to the non-Scenic route but I'd expect it must be slightly hillier.
I've no idea how different it is to the non-Scenic route but I'd expect it must be slightly hillier.
While we're on the topic of bypassing the A470, is it worth avoiding the A470 north of Rhayader by taking the minor road to the west of the main road like so: http://tinyurl.com/34aeyrl (http://tinyurl.com/34aeyrl)?
but I had eaten a very dodgy Mexican the night before
To pack overshoes or take a chance.....? :-\
but I had eaten a very dodgy Mexican the night before
As a bit of friendly advice, I would stay quiet on this one, cannibalism tends to be frowned upon on these shores.
Im in the Boars Head in Aust enjoying a pint. :thumbsup:
At the campsite in Sedbury now. Salvatore, adamski, Nonsteeler and the things also here. All set for tomorrow, I think.
Weather's been amazing
Weather's been amazing
What a foolish thing to say.
So how much rain has there been since that statement?
Video now online, best seen in 720 HD where it says 360, that's at the bottom right of the picture, they've put an ad on it, that can be got rid of with the little cross at the top right of the ad box.
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
2mins 59 secs
Methinks that be Deano at 1:56 to 2:00And our chum Maverick in the middle of the trio at 1:33 :thumbsup:
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
Black Hills of Dakota? :-\
Video now online, best seen in 720 HD where it says 360, that's at the bottom right of the picture, they've put an ad on it, that can be got rid of with the little cross at the top right of the ad box.
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
2mins 59 secs
Who's in the orange YACF jersey?
Who's in the orange YACF jersey?
Video now online, best seen in 720 HD where it says 360, that's at the bottom right of the picture, they've put an ad on it, that can be got rid of with the little cross at the top right of the ad box.
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
2mins 59 secs
Parts of today were wonderful, but I felt bloody weary ....
Weather's been amazing
What a foolish thing to say.
So how much rain has there been since that statement?
Video now online, best seen in 720 HD where it says 360, that's at the bottom right of the picture, they've put an ad on it, that can be got rid of with the little cross at the top right of the ad box.
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
2mins 59 secs
Ah, I see.
What about some Manic Street Preachers? Or you could intersperse a few chavved-up Saxos and go for Goldie Lookin' Chain ;D
Video now online, best seen in 720 HD where it says 360, that's at the bottom right of the picture, they've put an ad on it, that can be got rid of with the little cross at the top right of the ad box.
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
2mins 59 secs
Parts of today were wonderful, but I felt bloody weary ....
You only had to ask.... and I would have sent you a textual encouragement.
H
Craggy, windswept, weatherbeaten and ancient.
No not Wales.
Ian H at 0:17.
H
Funnily enough all my classes are doing silent tests today
Video now online, best seen in 720 HD where it says 360, that's at the bottom right of the picture, they've put an ad on it, that can be got rid of with the little cross at the top right of the ad box.
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
2mins 59 secs
That's just excellent :)
...
and I don't doubt several others who I've failed to spot :)
Doesn't Pen-y-Pas look marvellous ? It was.
Despite a lovely shower and bed at 12.30 I couldnt sleep a wink. Heard the rain pissing down and felt very sorry for the poor buggers still out in it. Getting up at 5am and the Youth Hostel looked like the aftermath of a battle. Bodies everywhere. Mark Rigby wondering around looking confused and dazed.
I felt really sorry for all those who didn't get a bed, also a bit guilty because some people looked worse than me. Did I really deserve a bed?
Did I really deserve a bed?
PS - if anyone knows where I can get an avatar of a tortoise..... :)
Ah, I see.
What about some Manic Street Preachers? Or you could intersperse a few chavved-up Saxos and go for Goldie Lookin' Chain ;D
No, no
The Manics are from Blackwood, and GLC avowedly and hilariously from Newport. Both in the deep South. It'd be like using Chas'n'Dave for the video of 3 Coasts :)
PS - if anyone knows where I can get an avatar of a tortoise..... :)clicky (http://www.twenga.co.uk/dir-Toys-Games,Soft-toys-teddy-bears,Turtle-soft-toy)
Found that picture of you btw, Adam....
click (http://www.banana-splits-show.com/images/bs89.jpg)
Video now online, best seen in 720 HD where it says 360, that's at the bottom right of the picture, they've put an ad on it, that can be got rid of with the little cross at the top right of the ad box.very nice - probably the prettiest of your films I've seen. I guess Wales in sunshine is a rare treat! How could anyone NOT want to do this ride after watching that?
YouTube
- Broadcast Yourself.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU)
2mins 59 secs
Actually I much prefer the Doris Day to your more modern music choices (even if I didn't get the joke).
p.s. lee no real steep climbs on this one. ;D
I don't know whether it's "Legal" to enter this event with the intention of only riding the first 300 but it would be one heck of a ride. Just get someone to meet you in Llanberis and drive you home with your head still full of the best ride you ever did (Note 1)
I don't know whether it's "Legal" to enter this event with the intention of only riding the first 300 but it would be one heck of a ride. Just get someone to meet you in Llanberis and drive you home with your head still full of the best ride you ever did (Note 1)
I was pondering this on the Denmead 400, another ride that could be split into two nice rides (200 to the coast and then 200 back, with an overnight stay at the coast).
Ride report (it's a biggie) (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=29216.msg623428#msg623428).
(I realise there are currently two BCM600 reports in that thread. I stupidly replaced my Willy Warmer report with the BCM600 report and didn't noticed until it was too late. Hopefully there's a back up somewhere....
Ride report (it's a biggie) (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=29216.msg623428#msg623428).
(I realise there are currently two BCM600 reports in that thread. I stupidly replaced my Willy Warmer report with the BCM600 report and didn't noticed until it was too late. Hopefully there's a back up somewhere....
Just got in, having left Maverick in the Severn View about six hours ago.
Oh that was just great! Not sure if I can say that I enjoyed every single last bit of it, but the whole experience was just great great great great. For me it was a one-of-a-kind event. It is very likely that I will ride a couple of more 600km audaxes or even longer distances. But this will always stick out. Not only because of the novelty - it was just perfect. Thanks to all the people who made this possible.
And on the other hand I can be it more reasonable and tell you that the best stage for me was from Kings YH Dolgellau to Menai Bridge on day one (the sea and mountains in late afternoon and early evening light!), second best the first stage on day two from YHA to Aberhafesp (a clean morning after the rain, fresh air, wet roads, fantastic scenery) and on third place the night ride from Menai Bridge back to YH (night riding magic: the real world lasts till the edge of your light and beyond is magic land; Deano, particularly a big thanks for riding this whole stage [and the one before] with me and esp. for helping me out with batteries).
On day two I had to hurry up a bit as the family was waiting for me. This in turn led to loads of solo riding because I didn't meet a rider/group on my cruising speed. Anyway, I arrived sometime before five which was perfect as 5pm was the agreed time.
Oh and I am celebrity now ;)! You can see Deano and me for few of seconds at 1.55 at Pen-y Pass: Bryan Chapman 2010 in Snowdonia video by damonpeacock (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxHWajFKfRU).
super video Damon & terrific pics from Toby.That's the first time I've seen ChrisN riding a geared bike.
Ride report (it's a biggie) (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=29216.msg623428#msg623428).
(I realise there are currently two BCM600 reports in that thread. I stupidly replaced my Willy Warmer report with the BCM600 report and didn't noticed until it was too late. Hopefully there's a back up somewhere....
super video Damon & terrific pics from Toby.That's the first time I've seen ChrisN riding a geared bike.
You'll have to ride it one year :)
super video Damon & terrific pics from Toby.That's the first time I've seen ChrisN riding a geared bike.
You'll have to ride it one year :)
I'll ask Mrs.Jogler if I can borrow her Goldwing ::-)
which she hasn't got yet
I notice that Maverick travelled further to do this ride than we will to do the Snow Roads :o
I'm glad you mentioned the Snow Roads. We must arrange travel - and talk Martin into riding. I think he's beginning to crack ;DNo he isn't, I've explained my constraints, now maybe I can arrange an interview and get the DWP to pay my expenses.
I'd ride around this with you, if you fancied it. If you want to ride London-Edinburgh-London, there's no reason why you shouldn't ride this: it would be good preparation.
I have it on my dance card for 2011 for PBP qualification.
I'd ride around this with you, if you fancied it. If you want to ride London-Edinburgh-London, there's no reason why you shouldn't ride this: it would be good preparation.
You would? I may ask you to do that then next year.That's the sort of incentive I need to get back into regular riding & as you say I will have to do these type of routes/distances in prep. for LEL 2013
I'd ride around this with you, if you fancied it. If you want to ride London-Edinburgh-London, there's no reason why you shouldn't ride this: it would be good preparation.
You would? I may ask you to do that then next year.That's the sort of incentive I need to get back into regular riding & as you say I will have to do these type of routes/distances in prep. for LEL 2013
Well, that was a bit of a "Concorde moment" for everyone in one way or another.
Provisionally at least 96 heroes (and heroines) pedalled themselves into a bit of AUK history.
For some - their first 600. And others - their first SR has now been bagged.
For a few - the ghosts of previous attempts, have now been put to rest.
A smaller number now enter the AUK higher etchelons as an ultra-randoneur.
Another gained their ultra-randoneur (with bar).
And amazingly, one individual added a second bar to their ultra-randoneur status.
If you were part of this event in any way shape or form, look back in six months time when the rose tinted specs are off, and realise you were part of something quite special.
I can see I'm going to have to take this organising thing seriously from now-on. 2011 planning is already underway.
As I type this, I can quitely hear a mandolin and Michael Stipe saying ".....But that was just a dream, just a dream......".
Well perhaps it just was.
Great report, but you've been too lenient with Mr Sucky. He sucked away my spirit and I've decided to blame him for my swollen knee. It was hard enough trying to keep pace in that headwind without having his mean-spirited tactics to contend with. I've made an effigy of him, and he's to be struck down with anal boils on his next ride.
And here's a great shot of Adamski relaxing at Dolgellau!
[img height=256 width=192]http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y163/Nemorach/bingo7.jpg[/img]
Didn't need a jazz mag. Once the rohypnol had taken effect the entire dormitory had their way with you....
I was tempted by Patio Song by Gorky's Zygotic Mynci, especially for the lines, 'Mae'n bwrw glaw
So dal fy llaw', but the talk of patios, boating and kissing would probably have upset the less metaphorically minded AUKs.
The outing was something of a technical test, I wanted to see if I could incorporate footage taken with a tripod at Barmouth with handheld stuff taken from the roadside at opportunity, and to see what the limits of the camera were, it handles shooting against the light well, but is a bit 'noisy' in poorer light. There's not enough footage from that one ride for a DVD.
Nice to meet some forummers (even if you don't know me from Adam, bit of a lurker these days).
I rode north to the youth hostel with a very strong rider in a Velocake top, who was also riding fixed. I've never known a field with so many other fixed riders.
All the grumbles about wheel sucking remind me why I prefer to ride on my own though.
Oh you fixer! Indeed it was amazing to see you doing all the hard stuff with one gear and no freewheel. For instance, John (the Velo Cake guy and owner of the blog with the same name) was strong as ever. Tough, when I talked to him he said that this will be one-off on fixed. Not sure if he meant the BCM in general or only the scenic version... Or the 180k I spent with Deano...
You guys on late 19th century bike technology were really awesome. One day (maybe next year?) I will give it a go, too. Till then I'll nurture my inferiority complex ;).
All the grumbles about wheel sucking remind me why I prefer to ride on my own though.
Light heartedly -- of course the faster riders should not be given beds - they should have 1 hour sleep on a hard floor after having a bucket of cold water thrown over them, no blankets or other coverings allowed - they must then depart within 150 minutes of arrival at Kings ( raining or not outside)- or they are "disqualified".:) This bit made me really laugh ;D. Also reminded of a piece in a recent Arrivee about how it feels when you are rider who tends to linger at the end of the field...
Loads of thanks to Mark and the teams for splendiferous service and for sacrificing the required number of virgins to ensure good weather!
All the grumbles about wheel sucking remind me why I prefer to ride on my own though.
Normally I couldn't care less about somebody hitching a tow, it's fair game as far as I'm concerned and I'm more than grateful for a bit of shelter when I need it but this really pissed me and Adam off. I'm pretty certain it would have irritated most riders. Four hours of it as well.
I came bottom of the class for tact and diplomacy... does it show?
That was the best weekend of cycling I've ever had. The 2004 route is good, but the Scenic is utterly amazing. I don't think I could ever ride it again though, because it can't ever be as good as this year.
:) This bit made me really laugh ;D. Also reminded of a piece in a recent Arrivee about how it feels when you are rider who tends to linger at the end of the field...
Here is my report from a helpers point of view.3 hours sleep is MORE than enough on a 600. The problem is for the tired back-markers who get bugger-all sleep on a hard floor with the racket of the fast boys (and gurrls) stomping about.<only experienced this on other rides, I should stress!>
First riders at Kings the second time through was at 20.59 and were away again within 30 mins. Then the rain began at about 11 ish so everyone wanted a bed. Unfortunately there were only 42 beds and nearly 100 riders to accommodate, so we set up a system of giving riders about 3 hours sleep and then hopefully allow other later arrivals the chance of getting at least a couple of hours. I was given the responsibility of running the system and although the system worked for most, I am aware that not everyone could be accommodated to which I apologise. In a perfect world we would have 100 beds.
I know, I'll put on a "Chris n" version, all the good bits of the "Scenic" but with parts of which have never featured on a BCM before.
Maybe put on a version that goes hrough Staylittle as well. You won't need any sheep to sort the men from the boys on that one.
:) This bit made me really laugh ;D. Also reminded of a piece in a recent Arrivee about how it feels when you are rider who tends to linger at the end of the field...Glad it amused someone.
But I dont linger at the back by choice - that is the best I can do - and therefore I have to have a shorter sleep ( ha ha) stop to still let me get round in time (...)
Where/what are those piccies? Great views anyway.
Where/what are those piccies? Great views anyway.
Where/what are those piccies? Great views anyway.
You'd know if you'd ridden it, you gert poof
(http://picasaweb.google.com/Widerworld/BCM2010#5472579692886394786)
The view of the coast and snowdonia on the run up to Harlech is just about my favourite part of the ride
(http://picasaweb.google.com/Widerworld/BCM2010#5472579692886394786)
The view of the coast and snowdonia on the run up to Harlech is just about my favourite part of the ride
2007 BCM was the first time I'd been in that part of Wales. On seeing the mountains I said to Plug "Wow! Look at those! Wonder where that is?"
.... to which he replied
"hur hur hur you'll find out in a couple of hours"
(http://picasaweb.google.com/Widerworld/BCM2010#5472579692886394786)
The view of the coast and snowdonia on the run up to Harlech is just about my favourite part of the ride
2007 BCM was the first time I'd been in that part of Wales. On seeing the mountains I said to Plug "Wow! Look at those! Wonder where that is?"
.... to which he replied
"hur hur hur you'll find out in a couple of hours"
Didn't need a jazz mag. Once the rohypnol had taken effect the entire dormitory had their way with you....
That was the best weekend of cycling I've ever had. The 2004 route is good, but the Scenic is utterly amazing. I don't think I could ever ride it again though, because it can't ever be as good as this year.
That was the best weekend of cycling I've ever had. The 2004 route is good, but the Scenic is utterly amazing. I don't think I could ever ride it again though, because it can't ever be as good as this year.
maybe that's 'cause you were on gears,not fixed :demon: ;)
:o
Chris - tell me it ain't so! :facepalm:
The view of the coast and snowdonia on the run up to Harlech (http://picasaweb.google.com/Widerworld/BCM2010#5472579692886394786)is just about my favourite part of the ride (weather permitting!). The run out to Dolgellau is in the bag and its an easy stretch before climbing into the long cold night.
Riders at Weobley. Rich, ?, and ?. Rich, LEE and Urban_Biker
Riders at Weobley. Rich, ?, and ?. Rich, LEE and Urban_Biker
Fixed:
Picasa Web Albums - Simon - BCM 2010 (http://picasaweb.google.com/Widerworld/BCM2010#5472579789600313810)
All of this talk of folk finishing at 5pm brings tears to my eyes.
Dave Kahn, you are my hero!
I like the comment on the ARAF SLOW road marking. I spent the entire ride thinking "I know, I know". :)
Following that link....
Riders at Weobley. Rich, ?, and ?. Rich, LEE and Urban_Biker
Wow. Tough ride Dave, well done for hanging on to the bitter end. Not sure you'd have got the BR even if you'd made it out of Monmouth as there's quite a long hill between Tintern and Chepstow.
Didn't you find the 82kph into Monmouth a bit hairy with that appalling road surface?
How come so many riders seem to have digestive issues on Welsh rides? Is the water really that bad?maybe just the fact that welsh rides are quite popular - i.e. a simple matter of statistics/sample size.
Ever since I read a ride report from Malvolio about how he puked his way around the Brevet Cymru one year, I've noticed a definite trend. And didn't a whole load of non-audaxing YACF'ers get gut rot at the very same Youth Hostel?
Sounds to me like Wales is bad for you...
Was it bad? It seemed OK to me but I think my judgement had gone by then. It certainly wasn't as difficult as a lot of the laney descending on the ride.
Was it bad? It seemed OK to me but I think my judgement had gone by then. It certainly wasn't as difficult as a lot of the laney descending on the ride.
It certainly wasn't as difficult as a lot of the laney descending on the ride.
Despite being labelled an A road, the A4110 heading south was a delight (e.g. this sort of road (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=A4113&daddr=A4110%2FRoman+Rd+to:A4110+to:Weobley,+Hereford,+United+Kingdom&geocode=FZS9HgMdWlrT_w%3BFdjPHQMdqJzU_w%3BFSSkHAMdnvbU_w%3BFSvnGwMd0xnU_yl1mSf2qTBwSDEKeQ8KiuDc-g&hl=en&mra=ls&via=1,2&dirflg=w&doflg=ptk&sll=52.254435,-2.872915&sspn=0.258927,0.590515&ie=UTF8&ll=52.285172,-2.843571&spn=0,0.073814&z=14&layer=c&cbll=52.285023,-2.843573&panoid=1KIjcxPy4zG1l_yJ-lcqUQ&cbp=12,158.68,,0,10.23)).
Despite being labelled an A road, the A4110 heading south was a delight (e.g. this sort of road (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=A4113&daddr=A4110%2FRoman+Rd+to:A4110+to:Weobley,+Hereford,+United+Kingdom&geocode=FZS9HgMdWlrT_w%3BFdjPHQMdqJzU_w%3BFSSkHAMdnvbU_w%3BFSvnGwMd0xnU_yl1mSf2qTBwSDEKeQ8KiuDc-g&hl=en&mra=ls&via=1,2&dirflg=w&doflg=ptk&sll=52.254435,-2.872915&sspn=0.258927,0.590515&ie=UTF8&ll=52.285172,-2.843571&spn=0,0.073814&z=14&layer=c&cbll=52.285023,-2.843573&panoid=1KIjcxPy4zG1l_yJ-lcqUQ&cbp=12,158.68,,0,10.23)).
I know your example isn't Wales, but I'm still amazed at what passes for an A-road in Wales. The steep little road out of Penrhyndeudraeth (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?hl=en&safe=off&ie=UTF8&q=penrhyndeudraeth&fb=1&gl=uk&ei=nQzzS6OJNNC7jAf_0cGGCg&ved=0CBcQpQY&view=map&geocode=FTOlJwMd3fPB_w&split=0&sll=52.922056,-4.093351&sspn=0.047142,0.119357&hq=&hnear=Penrhyndeudraeth,+Gwynedd,+United+Kingdom&layer=c&cbll=52.931717,-4.068408&panoid=LbeM9VEsXgc_MPKbApt7wQ&cbp=11,344.95,,0,5.2&ll=52.920288,-4.015846&spn=0.052992,0.439453&z=12), for example, is the A4085.
There's about a hundred miles like that, on a 300k.
I rode north to the youth hostel with a very strong rider in a Velocake top, who was also riding fixed. I've never known a field with so many other fixed riders.
Oh you fixer! Indeed it was amazing to see you doing all the hard stuff with one gear and no freewheel. For instance, John (the Velo Cake guy and owner of the blog with the same name) was strong as ever. Tough, when I talked to him he said that this will be one-off on fixed. Not sure if he meant the BCM in general or only the scenic version... Or the 180k I spent with Deano...
You guys on late 19th century bike technology were really awesome. One day (maybe next year?) I will give it a go, too. Till then I'll nurture my inferiority complex ;).
Riders at Weobley. Rich, ?, and ?. Rich, LEE and Urban_Biker
Fixed:
Picasa Web Albums - Simon - BCM 2010 (http://picasaweb.google.com/Widerworld/BCM2010#5472579789600313810)
Heh
I just loved those lanes on the way to Weobley. Horses for wotsits, I suppose.
We seemed to spend ages on those little lanes - we missed a turning, and landed on an A-road where the sign-post read 2 miles to Weobley, and that seemed so much simpler and more civilised.
I suppose it was the contrast to the simplicity of the Welsh A-Roads. The Herefordshire maze was a bit much for us to navigate...
I found a group of Vorsprung, Mal Volio, Kcass and another rider I didn't recognise. I sprinted past, but Vorsprung reeled in my attack, and we rode together for a while until Vorsprung decided to try to break us all on a hill.
We seemed to spend ages on those little lanes - we missed a turning, and landed on an A-road where the sign-post read 2 miles to Weobley, and that seemed so much simpler and more civilised.
I suppose it was the contrast to the simplicity of the Welsh A-Roads. The Herefordshire maze was a bit much for us to navigate...
The "RIGHT sp Brockaly" signpost was misaligned, probably clouted by a farm vehicle - previous years it was fine.
Another signpost pointing wrongly was the RIGHT in Bampton Bryan signed "Lingen 3 1/2", it was pointing SO.
The signpost just before the A44 near Weobley had been 'semi repaired', there were no directions to the left, but to the right had been reinstated
It certainly wasn't as difficult as a lot of the laney descending on the ride.
Steep laney descending (on fixed) is one of my least favourite parts of Audaxing, along with being bitten by dogs. So in an effort to avoid both I tried this diversion (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=A4113&daddr=A4110%2FRoman+Rd+to:A4110+to:Weobley,+Hereford,+United+Kingdom&geocode=FZS9HgMdWlrT_w%3BFdjPHQMdqJzU_w%3BFSSkHAMdnvbU_w%3BFSvnGwMd0xnU_yl1mSf2qTBwSDEKeQ8KiuDc-g&hl=en&mra=ls&via=1,2&dirflg=w&doflg=ptk&sll=52.254435,-2.872915&sspn=0.258927,0.590515&ie=UTF8&ll=52.284962,-2.843399&spn=0.260428,0.590515&z=11) from Knighton to Weobley. Despite being labelled an A road, the A4110 heading south was a delight (e.g. this sort of road (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=A4113&daddr=A4110%2FRoman+Rd+to:A4110+to:Weobley,+Hereford,+United+Kingdom&geocode=FZS9HgMdWlrT_w%3BFdjPHQMdqJzU_w%3BFSSkHAMdnvbU_w%3BFSvnGwMd0xnU_yl1mSf2qTBwSDEKeQ8KiuDc-g&hl=en&mra=ls&via=1,2&dirflg=w&doflg=ptk&sll=52.254435,-2.872915&sspn=0.258927,0.590515&ie=UTF8&ll=52.285172,-2.843571&spn=0,0.073814&z=14&layer=c&cbll=52.285023,-2.843573&panoid=1KIjcxPy4zG1l_yJ-lcqUQ&cbp=12,158.68,,0,10.23)). The A44/A4112 not so pretty, but still fine for cycling. The whole diversion is almost exactly the same distance as the official route, but easier to navigate and no tricky descents.
Four and a half minutes of video of riders at Barmouth. You could tell me who they are.
YouTube
- BCB 2.avi
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GS34oEg27lo)
......yep, that one confused me a bit as well, not sure if that very small black and white house on the right could be used as ref. point? possibly a bit verbose for the route sheet though......Er ....it was on the route sheet ;) , "that very small black and white house on the right " is actually Dilwyn Dovecot, a grade 2 listed building.
;)+1
Four and a half minutes of video of riders at Barmouth. You could tell me who they are.
it was that or fall over :)
I was tiddling along, enjoying the day, and suddenly remembered that it goes very UP and then kicks up again even harder at the very end. I wasn't going fast enough to make it so I just sprinted. I only noticed Damon at the last minute, hence my grin and belated reply to his greeting
Deano had to grab Damon to avoid falling, I think.
I came up Pen y pass and saw someone taking pic's there, it was only as I passed I twigged who it was :-[
Sorry for ignoring you, I felt rough coming up that section and just wanted it to end.
Rich
the same with this shot.
Riders Pen Y Pass on Flickr - Photo Sharing! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/26102994@N05/4621608730/in/photostream/)
For those interested. Dovecpte. Dated 1673, with some C20 alterations. Timber-frame with rendered infill on a rubble plinth with a felt roof. Gabled in all four directions. Square plan. Two storeys with small openings in gables. Main entrance in east wall has a shaped doorhead bearing the incised date."1673". The C17 boarded door has decorative strap hinges. The roof is capped by a glover, also gabled on all four sides. The framing is four square panels high with
straight tension braces. The trusses each have two collars with multiple struts and curved V-struts in the apex. The bargeboards are carved and have pendant finials. The projecting wall-plates each have carved brackets.
If they were out of the saddle and honking I tried to get them smiling for the still, as I think the set expression is more sportive territory. People should look happy on an Audax, especially in North Wales when it's not raining.Quite right too!
I tried to be reasonably quick as I knew I was on for a PB time. So after a ginsters slice and a magnum, and a can of red bull, I was off.
I positioned myself near the car park exit well in time this year,
This time I'd start off near the front.
It was too large a gap to chase down,
The group fragmented a bit during the
(in fact, I set a PB for 20 minute power on the climb to Shirenewton, and a PB for 2h power over the whole section)
I sprinted past, but Vorsprung reeled in my attack, and we rode together for a while until Vorsprung decided to try to break us all on a hill.
I was definitely down on 2008 now.
so jwo got ahead of me again
I passed the 300km mark only 7 minutes down on 2008, and at Menai Bridge control I was 10 minutes ahead, arriving at 20.20.
I positioned myself near the car park exit well in time this year,
This time I'd start off near the front.
It was too large a gap to chase down,
The group fragmented a bit during the
(in fact, I set a PB for 20 minute power on the climb to Shirenewton, and a PB for 2h power over the whole section)
I sprinted past, but Vorsprung reeled in my attack, and we rode together for a while until Vorsprung decided to try to break us all on a hill.
I was definitely down on 2008 now.
so jwo got ahead of me again
I passed the 300km mark only 7 minutes down on 2008, and at Menai Bridge control I was 10 minutes ahead, arriving at 20.20.
Blimey!
I was just out on a nice ride with Adam. I had absolutely no idea any of this was going on behind me ;D
Looking at the video, while editing, I wondered why miles are sometimes Milltir on signs and sometimes Filltir, apparently the word mutates to Filltir when the mileage is 1 or 2, for a distance of 3 miles or above or below 1 it is Milltir. Funny language Welsh.
There's also two counting systems: a modern one and an older and rather difficult one used for time, age and money.
I'm in the second year of trying to learn it :)
I found a group of Vorsprung, Mal Volio, Kcass and another rider I didn't recognise. I sprinted past, but Vorsprung reeled in my attack, and we rode together for a while until Vorsprung decided to try to break us all on a hill.
MV said something like "let's make simon do some work" and caught you up.
No hill hammering was intended, as I said at the time I was just riding at a happy pace. Maybe I should have looked back a bit more. You can always shout "gap!" y'know. I could hear someone on my wheel but it turned out to just be kcass on his own.
I must say I was amused by your comments during the ride about being an hour up or whatever on last years time. I don't remember my total time from last year, let alone when I got to the top of Llanberis or any other point!
Did that photo of near the top of Pant-y-Pass come out ok? I'd like to see that, it was a loverly late afternoon
I wish you guys would stop the time-bragging; it really is not ‘the spirit of Audax’, though is it non-politic to report I did a 28hr 600 before my hair turned grey,Did you start 20mins late that time? ;)
People can say what they want regardless of what any self-appointed guardian of the spirit of audax thinks.
If Simon is chuffed with setting personal bests, then great
I'm in the second year of trying to learn it :)
People can say what they want regardless of what any self-appointed guardian of the spirit of audax thinks.
If Simon is chuffed with setting personal bests, then great
People can say what they want regardless of what any self-appointed guardian of the spirit of audax thinks.Self-appointed guardian? Well I didn't create the spirit of audax, but I'm happy to stand up for it. It's pretty bloody obvious that non-competitiveness is a cornerstone.
If Simon is chuffed with setting personal bests, then great
It's pretty bloody obvious that non-competitiveness is a cornerstone.
I'm in the second year of trying to learn it :)
How did your linguistic challenge at Tre'Ddol go?
I wish you guys would stop the time-bragging; it really is not ‘the spirit of Audax’, though is it non-politic to report I did a 28hr 600 before my hair turned grey,Did you start 20mins late that time? ;)
But seriously, it is good to occasionally remind folks that time-bragging isn't really in the spirit.
However, in Simon's case it's pretty clear he knows he wasn't fastest, and there's no harm in seeking to improve ONE'S OWN performance, so you can hardly call him competitive. (It's also the case that many of us are concerned about beating the broom wagon on tougher rides to come, so "doing a good time" on the "warm-ups" is a morale boost on that road.)
Just IMHO ... :)
I'm in the second year of trying to learn it :)
Funnily enough I thought of sportive riders when I read this:I tried to be reasonably quick as I knew I was on for a PB time. So after a ginsters slice and a magnum, and a can of red bull, I was off.
it was that or fall over :)
I was tiddling along, enjoying the day, and suddenly remembered that it goes very UP and then kicks up again even harder at the very end. I wasn't going fast enough to make it so I just sprinted. I only noticed Damon at the last minute, hence my grin and belated reply to his greeting
Deano had to grab Damon to avoid falling, I think.
I'm in the second year of trying to learn it :)
Bydew 'n ddigon , a hawddamor.
I think ???
Looking at the video, while editing, I wondered why miles are sometimes Milltir on signs and sometimes Filltir, apparently the word mutates to Filltir when the mileage is 1 or 2, for a distance of 3 miles or above or below 1 it is Milltir. Funny language Welsh.
It's to do with the gender of the word before it. M to F is an example of the soft mutation. You'll also see Mawr/Fawr (big) and Cymru/Gymru etc
Did that photo of near the top of Pant-y-Pass come out ok? I'd like to see that, it was a loverly late afternoon
Until your explanation I thought it might be a similar thing to Russian where the cardinal number one governs the nominative singular, two to four the genitive singular, and other numbers the genitive plural. Ludicrously complex language.
Looking at the video, while editing, I wondered why miles are sometimes Milltir on signs and sometimes Filltir, apparently the word mutates to Filltir when the mileage is 1 or 2, for a distance of 3 miles or above or below 1 it is Milltir. Funny language Welsh.
It's to do with the gender of the word before it. M to F is an example of the soft mutation.
But not as ludicrous as Estonian where nouns and adjectives decline in fourteen cases.
But not as ludicrous as Estonian where nouns and adjectives decline in fourteen cases.
There should be a law.
I was the last to arrive at the finish, certainly while it was still manned, where I explained to Mark that I was disqualified having accepted a lift. In spite of my difficulties it is a fantastic ride. Some days you can do it and some days you can't. C'est la vie.
I did get a picture of you, I've just been fiddling with it, it needed sorting as it was a bit dark by then, it's a bit noisy,
Rich Forrest BCM on Flickr - Photo Sharing! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/26102994@N05/4621604502/)
I didn't realise you spoke Cornish Mark! :P
People can say what they want regardless of what any self-appointed guardian of the spirit of audax thinks.Self-appointed guardian? Well I didn't create the spirit of audax, but I'm happy to stand up for it. It's pretty bloody obvious that non-competitiveness is a cornerstone.
If Simon is chuffed with setting personal bests, then great
Your 2nd statement is redundant - I made it pretty clear that I approve of Simon racing himself.
On the new frame by the looks of it. :thumbsup:
Working out ok Rich?
I did hear about a couple of people, in a dormitory where everyone else was being woken at 5.00, asking for a 4.45 wake-up call ::-)Sleeping will always be a problem at Kings YHA, there are effectively only 36 beds. but this in itself is only part of the problem.
I went with 5.00 cos that's what everyone else wanted. Suited me fine.
If audax isn't competitive, then why bother with validation at all?
I'm in the second year of trying to learn it :)
How did your linguistic challenge at Tre'Ddol go?
I passed on it - bounced the control I'm afraid
I tried at the Cei Newydd control on the Brevet Cymru, but the conversation rapidly span out of my understanding :)
If audax isn't competitive, then why bother with validation at all?
There's PBP qualification for a start - that's what AUK was originally invented for.
ok I got to Dolgellau for a kip at 1:30am. Arriving at this time was planned because I usually find it difficult to stay with it after 2am. Leaving at 6am ( and so waking at 5am ) was also planned. Three hours sleep is plenty for me and waking up at 5am isn't difficult. I needed to finish at 7-ish as I was going to work the next day and I wanted to drive back to Devon and get a good nights sleep. As it happened I went quite well on day two. There were some good bits with tailwinds and no bad patches.
It's pretty obvious to me that people DO ride audaxes competitively, otherwise why were the other people that were getting to dolgellau at the same time as me (1:30am-2am) asking to be woke up at 4/5am. Even if you set off well after 7am (as I did) and are a LOT slower than you were on the first day ( as I was) then you're still going to finish not only on time, but in daylight. There's no harm in that, imho, though.
ok, granted. But:
* PBP is in itself just another audax
.............................
It's pretty obvious to me that people DO ride audaxes competitively, otherwise why were the other people that were getting to dolgellau at the same time as me (1:30am-2am) asking to be woke up at 4/5am. Even if you set off well after 7am (as I did) and are a LOT slower than you were on the first day ( as I was) then you're still going to finish not only on time, but in daylight. There's no harm in that, imho, though.Personally I like to think that these folk who get up at 5:00 am are being considerate and leaving some empty beds for those of us that won't arrive until 5:00 am (when I did BCM 2 years ago) I'd get very whiny if I thought _fast_persons_ were hogging a bed for a full night's sleep and I had to slum it on the floor for my meagre 2 hours.
ok, granted. But:
* PBP is in itself just another audax
.............................
:o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
Try telling the ACP that. The bicylcle was invented for PBP ;)
Folk were just messing about on things like Giro D'Italia and suchlike before this.
*comments moved to "why bother with validation thread"
A nice man has rather sensibly started a new thread about all this:Thank you
If audax isn't competitive, then why bother with validation at all? (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=33415.0)
Personally I like to think that these folk who get up at 5:00 am are being considerate and leaving some empty beds for those of us that won't arrive until 5:00 amI would have been quite happy to have been woken up at 5am if someone else had arrived that wanted the bed. But I wasn't.
(when I did BCM 2 years ago) I'd get very whiny if I thought _fast_persons_ were hogging a bed for a full night's sleep and I had to slum it on the floor for my meagre 2 hours.
I set off well after 7:00 am and DIDN'T finish in daylight (fvm).
You obviously have no idea what it is like at the slow end of the field etc.
You obviously have no idea what it is like at the slow end of the field etc.
As far as I'm concerned, getting in early enough to get a clean bed in an empty dormitory is just another facet of natural selection....
I'd already left before you'd arrived :D
I tried to wake you up but settled on stroking your hair and tucking you in.
H
p.s. if you're ever worried about oversleeping:
I tried to wake you up but settled on stroking your hair and tucking you in.
H
I want to emphasise that this isn't just about petty feelings of entitlement; sleep dep is a real safety issue. The slowest riders are often the most tired, they shouldn't be made to finish long events on less sleep than necessary. Of course we're all supposed to be self-sufficient yada yada.... but let's try to look after each other too.
<vorsprung's Audax blog link>
<vorsprung's Audax blog link>
The blog link in your sig is borked.
<vorsprung's Audax blog link>
The blog link in your sig is borked.
So it is...is that any better?
I think you'll find that at > 36 hrs I *am* at the "slow end of the field".But doesn't that >36 hours include a sleep from 2:00 am to 7:00 am? Even if not, >36 hours is faster by 3.5 hours than I am on about 2 hours sleep etc.
As far as I'm concerned, getting in early enough to get a clean bed in an empty dormitory is just another facet of natural selection....
:)
yes, but even so it's still the slow end of the field. Not the slowest, but still probably in the slow half.I think you'll find that at > 36 hrs I *am* at the "slow end of the field".But doesn't that >36 hours include a sleep from 2:00 am to 7:00 am? Even if not, >36 hours is faster by 3.5 hours than I am on about 2 hours sleep etc.
I think 35-36 hours is about midde in terms of number of riders back, that is, roughly the same amount will be back after than time as those still not back. So you could say it's the slow end of the fast half or the fast end of the slow half of the field. Who cares anyway Ben, it's not a race.yes, but even so it's still the slow end of the field. Not the slowest, but still probably in the slow half.I think you'll find that at > 36 hrs I *am* at the "slow end of the field".But doesn't that >36 hours include a sleep from 2:00 am to 7:00 am? Even if not, >36 hours is faster by 3.5 hours than I am on about 2 hours sleep etc.
...it's not a race.
...a combination of the bonk, dozies, a sore knee, bubbling guts, a sore back, excess stomach acid and a bleeding arse, combined with the rain, was enough to make me stop....
...a combination of the bonk, dozies, a sore knee, bubbling guts, a sore back, excess stomach acid and a bleeding arse, combined with the rain, was enough to make me stop....
I think Audax UK have found their next PR secretary.
You make it sound great :D :thumbsup:
As it was Adam and I had 5 hours of bunk time.
I'm positive there was a trophy sitting on a controller's table.
Really can't see the point of riding through the night.If there's just one good sleep stop, and it's not an easy ride, only the really fast* would disagree I suspect (or insomniacs). Or ECE riders!
However, a combination of the bonk, dozies, a sore knee, bubbling guts, a sore back, excess stomach acid and a bleeding arse was enough to make me stop for sleep.
However, a combination of the bonk, dozies, a sore knee, bubbling guts, a sore back, excess stomach acid and a bleeding arse was enough to make me stop for sleep.
I wasn't aware that Hummers was even on the ride.
I think he was in spirit. :)
Final up-date of finishers (subject to validation of course).
The final tally for the w/e's rides stands at 100...
Quote of the weekend:Brilliant!!
"My poo'er has gone doon 5 watts".
That's a big increase from the last couple of years - in fact, exactly 33 1/3% more than 2009. Any hypotheses as to why? Impact of YACF? Global warming?I think there are a large number of factors, undoubtedly the YACF conintingent accounted for a large part of the field this year. Another factor is the weather, last year's field was decimated by the harsh downpours. There are a couple of controversial reasons, a forum such as this is probably not the best place to reveal them. Pre-pre-PBP qualifacation is another reason for increased numbers. The sucess of both olympic and professional cyclists has helped raise the profile of what has always been regarded as a fringe sport, to something that is respectable/respected. People have finally woken-up to the fact that cycling in any form, be it getting out with the family on a weekend morning, riding to work, a week-end spent riding twice the length of Wales - give you many heaith benefits.
Edit: PBP pre-qual?
I think there are a large number of factors, ...
Not least is having custodians that care
And one day someone else will take what I have and take it further. Organisers need to listen to what their customers have to say.
If the Kings control is moved I'm sure a number of riders (especially those on fixed wheel) will disappointed. ;)
If the Kings control is moved I'm sure a number of riders (especially those on fixed wheel) will disappointed. ;)I can assure you there are no plans to move the control away from Kings YH. Far from it, this is one area in particular that I'm looking to expand capacity. The venue has already been booked for 2011. :demon:
Be afraid - M. Blacksheep was eyeing up the marquee at Hoarwithy yesterday, and muttering "Penygadair..." ;D
Was looking at Matt Chester's site today, and notice that he's added some pictures (http://mattchester.blogspot.com/) (scroll down a bit) of Mal Volio on "a 600km brevet in Wales".
Damon, this
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3335/4638396685_57949cc0ce.jpg
is a fantastic photo :)
Damon, this
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3335/4638396685_57949cc0ce.jpg
is a fantastic photo :)
Damon, this
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3335/4638396685_57949cc0ce.jpg
is a fantastic photo :)
...is a fantastic photo :)
controversial
I wonder then if he lurks here.
Some pics from the lanterne rouge end of the field.
Bryan Chapman Memorial 600 (2004 route) May 2010 - SteveBerry's Photos (http://steveberry.smugmug.com/AUDAX-1/Bryan-Chapman-600-May-2010/12450275_7jaz4#891596950_QVmqE)
Feel free to add comments/corrections/names or download (smugmug lets you download full size pics (unlike flickr, I believe))
Some pics from the lanterne rouge end of the field.
[
And I’m guilty of riding a brevet this w/e just passed.
The second stage is the longest; you will pass through Builth Wells. The town has cafes, I have found the service to be slow – not something you need at this stage of the ride. The A470 undulates gently; there are no serious climbs, but the road is narrow in places, so be aware of other road users. In Rhayader the route now follows the B4518 through the Elan Valley. The route passes through spectacular and isolated countryside,I thought it was only the "Scenic" that went up the Elan Valley :o
Stage four to Menai Bridge. Before leaving the YHA control it maybe wise to take stock of bonk rations, as you will now be heading into the evening, and shops are few and far between. Once you’re back on the main road, this year it’s a right turn. The path from the tollbooth exiting straight on to the main A496 was considered an avoidable risk. So now keep your eyes peeled for the ‘George III PH on left, the toll bridge across the river is adjacent to it. Once over the estuary – it’s left onto the A496, through Barmouth,Interesting that Mark cut out this "avoidable risk" - I wonder what caused its restoration? riders complaining about the new safer route?!?
Interesting that Mark cut out this "avoidable risk" - I wonder what caused its restoration? riders complaining about the new safer route?!