Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: pangolin on 30 December, 2021, 11:33:19 am

Title: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: pangolin on 30 December, 2021, 11:33:19 am
Hi, apologies if this has been said elsewhere but I had a look around and couldn't see anything.

Is the Brevet Cymru planning to run in 2022 currently? It's on the AUK site but a lot of the info text refers to previous years. Out of curiosity did it run in 2021? Can't find a thread.

Cheers
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: PAC on 01 January, 2022, 10:32:22 pm
Yes, it’s in the calendar for 30th April and I’ve just entered it after missing it for a few years :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Peat on 02 January, 2022, 10:28:44 am
IIUC, Mark has rolled over all entries from the aborted 2020 event.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: GPS on 21 April, 2022, 08:54:13 am
... just over a week to go  ;D
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ajax Bay on 21 April, 2022, 05:22:55 pm
Enjoy.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29804527?beta=false
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Jeff E on 22 April, 2022, 05:54:18 pm
Mark has asked entrants to declare themselves as DNS on their personal list of upcoming Events Entered.    I cannot find that facility.    Does he mean us to achieve this by “Delete Event”.    If so, AUK themselves could make it clearer for us by renaming it as “Register as DNS”.   I’m sure Organisers would appreciate this, rather than a host of emails from those polite enough to inform them
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 23 April, 2022, 10:22:43 am
Mark has asked entrants to declare themselves as DNS on their personal list of upcoming Events Entered.    I cannot find that facility.    Does he mean us to achieve this by “Delete Event”.    If so, AUK themselves could make it clearer for us by renaming it as “Register as DNS”.   I’m sure Organisers would appreciate this, rather than a host of emails from those polite enough to inform them
I assumed I was just being thick so did that and an email!
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 23 April, 2022, 12:29:33 pm
Enjoy.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29804527?beta=false

How certain is that route? The part to Hay always changes.

BB
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: willpom gwraudax on 24 April, 2022, 11:16:32 am
Enjoy.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29804527?beta=false

How certain is that route? The part to Hay always changes.

BB
It isn't Mark's route to Hay but it is a route.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 24 April, 2022, 11:19:43 am
Just pulled my entry. My second bout of cv has put paid to long rides this spring. Oh well. Hope weather is good for everybody
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ajax Bay on 24 April, 2022, 04:19:25 pm
Enjoy.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29804527?beta=false
How certain is that route? The part to Hay always changes.
BB
It isn't Mark's route to Hay but it is a route.
I haven't access to this year's routesheet, Will. But this IS Mark's routesheet (extract) for the last few years:
LEFT on RIGHT-hand bend, $ CROSS ASH 2 1/2
LEFT at X, $ CROSS ASH 1.
RIGHT in CROSS ASH, $ Grosmont 3
LEFT at T, CR46. Sign part missing, (but right = Grosmont)
RIGHT, "Unsuitable for heavy Goods Vehicles" then quick fork LEFT.
RIGHT at T, then 1st. LEFT before "Old Pandy Inn".
RIGHT, $ MICHAELCHURCH, HAY. (this lanes goes-on for ages)
LEFT at T,  onto B4348 - go to HAY-ON-WYE
CONTROL : By the bus stop on LEFT. $ AUK Control (86km)

This route is the shortest viable (77.3km + 1114m).
Via Golden Valley (Ewyas Harold) is 80.6km + 983m.
I have ridden both over the years.
Or go the 'whole hog' (Steve Poulton style) and over Gospel Pass is 80.2km + 1224m.
In 2019 Mark issued the routesheet part of which I've pasted here and also a gpx which went via Golden Valley (caveat Rockfield option). He said then "There are route sheet and GPS files attached,  they do vary in a couple of places, but this just down to taking 'opposite sides of a square'. Both work, the route has remained largely unchanged for nearly two decades."
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: ransos on 24 April, 2022, 08:28:04 pm
Michaelchurch is on the routesheet this year. I haven't checked the gpx file yet.

ETA: The gpx route goes to Hay via the Golden Valley, which I understand is the same as previous years. Do any regulars have a view on which is the better option?
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: GPS on 25 April, 2022, 03:38:12 pm
Michaelchurch is on the routesheet this year. I haven't checked the gpx file yet.

ETA: The gpx route goes to Hay via the Golden Valley, which I understand is the same as previous years. Do any regulars have a view on which is the better option?

i've generally use the golden valley route, but the road surface has been a bit rough in the past ... who knows, maybe they've resurfaced it sonce 2019 ?
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 25 April, 2022, 05:58:01 pm
I seem to recall they have
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 25 April, 2022, 07:30:32 pm
Michaelchurch is on the routesheet this year. I haven't checked the gpx file yet.

ETA: The gpx route goes to Hay via the Golden Valley, which I understand is the same as previous years. Do any regulars have a view on which is the better option?

I have not received any correspondence from Mark and am going on the fact that my entry was rolled over from 2020. Has anyone else been emailed route sheet or gpx? My one is very close to the 2019 that was mailed to me.

BB 
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: willpom gwraudax on 25 April, 2022, 09:38:58 pm
Yep, on the 22nd
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ajax Bay on 25 April, 2022, 11:45:42 pm
Michaelchurch is on the routesheet this year. I haven't checked the gpx file yet.

ETA: The gpx route goes to Hay via the Golden Valley, which I understand is the same as previous years. Do any regulars have a view on which is the better option?

I have not received any correspondence from Mark and am going on the fact that my entry was rolled over from 2020. Has anyone else been emailed route sheet or gpx? My one is very close to the 2019 that was mailed to me.

BB
You need to get that e-mail. Mark shares some important info. Key items:
No facilities at start: pick up brevet round the back.
Hay control is Drovers Cycles (through Hay and L $ Capel-y-ffin 8 (Forest Rd)) - this is the only 'route change'.
Llangattock is food, drink toilets and move-on as quickly as possible (no hanging around).
bp garage PoP at finish (just off 'first and last' rbt) and post to Mark (not through BCC letterbox).
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Neilatclyro on 27 April, 2022, 08:03:44 pm
I too haven't had any emails or correspondence from Mark.  I've just emailed him to ask if he's intending to send the details.  It seems I've been missed off the email list - My entry is also a rollover. 
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: mattc on 27 April, 2022, 11:30:21 pm
I too haven't had any emails or correspondence from Mark.  I've just emailed him to ask if he's intending to send the details.  It seems I've been missed off the email list - My entry is also a rollover.
If it's any help, Mark's posted a ton of info on Facebook. V comprehensive.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: willpom gwraudax on 28 April, 2022, 09:55:24 am
BlackSheep CC FB group https://www.facebook.com/groups/465506320856201 (https://www.facebook.com/groups/465506320856201)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Neilatclyro on 28 April, 2022, 06:14:24 pm
Thanks all,

Mark has re-sent me the info (thanks too Raymond) so I now have the info.  Mark thought my Apple email may have  identified it as spam because of the large number on the distribution - certainly not in my local Junk folder.   I'm afraid I'm one of those who believe Facebook to be the spawn of satan and so don't have an account on principle :)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: willpom gwraudax on 29 April, 2022, 11:07:55 am
There are spam filters above spam filters...

I've been finding this occurring more so on my events even using MailChimp that is supposed to be registered with all the providers.

On an aside...
Llanddewi-Breffi drinking water tap behind the phone box. (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@52.1796328,-3.9568607,3a,41.4y,70h,88.05t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sEVHjBiPjsiGc3sE1UnkzNw!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) - streetview link
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: markcjagar on 02 May, 2022, 11:37:31 am
Great ride that! Stunning scenery, quiet roads, great controls and I met some lovely people along the way.

Thanks for organising Mark and cheers for the company in the last 100km Will, Matt(ress) & Dave.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: ransos on 03 May, 2022, 09:43:24 am
Great ride that! Stunning scenery, quiet roads, great controls and I met some lovely people along the way.

Thanks for organising Mark and cheers for the company in the last 100km Will, Matt(ress) & Dave.

+1 to that. I found it pretty tough but it was a brilliant route.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 03 May, 2022, 03:05:42 pm
A tough ride, found it hard to ride with anyone because my climbing is so bad at the moment.  So a lot of solo riding and meeting up with the same people at each control. But still a pleasant day out, as all riding in Wales seems to be.

Starting thinking that I could always turn around at Llandovery the first time, and have a nice 300km ride if I didn't feel up to finishing. But by the time I felt I might have bitten off more than I could chew I was at Llandovery for the second time, it was about 10pm and bailing became very difficult. Finally limped into Chepstow at 5:15.

Chepstow to Hay - harder than I remember, no big hills on the profile but frequent choppy small hills
Hay To Llandovery - about the same, rolling on a main road. had wind was a bit of a pain
Llandovery to Tregaron - easier than I remember, a long drag at the start, but no tough climbs
Tregaron to Newquay - hard, but all compressed into the last section
Newquay to Llandovery - as expected a big climb at the start and another just before rejoining the outbound route
Llandovery to Llangatock - a long long climb to the top, but at a steady gradient so quite managable, but never felt the downhill that should exist from the top.
Llangatock to Chepstow- really struggled here, the last climb was near impossible, and I was glad of the rain to keep me awake on the descent

A useful ride to tell me where my fitness is. LEL seems achievable, but LEJOG in July looks very challenging from here.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: ransos on 03 May, 2022, 07:34:05 pm
I also finished at 5.15, but I was quite happy with that as there was plenty of time in hand. Bryan Chapman next!
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 03 May, 2022, 11:12:36 pm
I also finished at 5.15, but I was quite happy with that as there was plenty of time in hand. Bryan Chapman next!
slightly under 4 hours. so no worries about being out of time, but still my slowest 400 where I didn't have a good sleep on the way.
I think I had 3 hours in hand at llandovery, and at tregaron and at newquay. 3.75 at Llandovery (2) 3 at Llangatock (listed as 341km, but actually 356km, so it should have been 4) and 3.75 again at the finish.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: markcjagar on 04 May, 2022, 09:48:36 am
I was back at 0500, my faff time was terrible - over 4 hours off the bike.

I'm not used to Audax's with so many nice controls, usually it's Coop, Coop, petrol station.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: ransos on 04 May, 2022, 02:46:38 pm
I also finished at 5.15, but I was quite happy with that as there was plenty of time in hand. Bryan Chapman next!
slightly under 4 hours. so no worries about being out of time, but still my slowest 400 where I didn't have a good sleep on the way.
I think I had 3 hours in hand at llandovery, and at tregaron and at newquay. 3.75 at Llandovery (2) 3 at Llangatock (listed as 341km, but actually 356km, so it should have been 4) and 3.75 again at the finish.

My slowest 400 too, but as it was my second, I won't read too much into it. I lost about an hour to mechanical problems as well.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 04 May, 2022, 11:28:09 pm
I was back at 0500, my faff time was terrible - over 4 hours off the bike.

I'm not used to Audax's with so many nice controls, usually it's Coop, Coop, petrol station.

I won't judge you for that, on PBP according to my GPX track I had 24 hours of not moving, only 10 of those were sleep hours. And I can't blame queues at controls because there weren't really any. I did stop at least 5 times on top of controls

On easter arrow nearly 5 hours at controls (tour de McDs), but then you need to drag it out to 24 hours
asparagus and strawberries a whopping 10 hours not moving, but included a big sleep
LWL 3hrs 40
both times on brevet cymru 4 hours
back to the smoke, only 2hrs 20  (petrol station, tesco express, petrol station, (non control) chip shop, petrol station, petrol station
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: thing1 on 21 April, 2023, 01:44:07 pm
Recycling this thread for the 2023 edition 🙂
Really looking forward to this one. Got some unfinished business with it ever since 2011 (royal wedding weekend).

I'm driving over from Herts and have a spare seat in the car so if anyone in the Londonish area would like to carpool HMU! Leaving Fri after lunch, return Sunday middayish.
(I also have a spare seat on the tandem, but if you want to bikepool on this ride you'll really have to HMU 🤣)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 21 April, 2023, 01:52:23 pm
Not for me this year, on the porkers instead and the Brevet/Porkers combo is probably too much for me.

Hope you get the same weather I have had on both my Brevet Cymru rides and sun cream is required more than rain jackets.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: ransos on 21 April, 2023, 02:23:51 pm
I've entered, but I'm doing the Paddington Express this weekend so I will see how well I recover.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ian H on 21 April, 2023, 05:51:55 pm
I shall be there.  Back in the day it was my fastest 400, and on fixed.  It won't be like that this year.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 21 April, 2023, 09:54:33 pm
Anybody been sent mail on the event yet?

Sent from my SM-A346B using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: TomAplomb on 22 April, 2023, 10:26:10 am
Anybody been sent mail on the event yet?

Sent from my SM-A346B using Tapatalk

I haven't received anything yet
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 22 April, 2023, 03:16:48 pm
I'm entered. And in a completion mindset at the moment.

I anticipate being down the ugly end of the field though.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: vorsprung on 22 April, 2023, 03:49:14 pm
Anybody been sent mail on the event yet?

Sent from my SM-A346B using Tapatalk

I haven't received anything yet

Mark said this weekend, probably.  So don't be anxious :)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: vorsprung on 23 April, 2023, 12:21:37 pm
Anybody been sent mail on the event yet?

Sent from my SM-A346B using Tapatalk

I haven't received anything yet

I see an email from Mark today at 9:03am :)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ian H on 23 April, 2023, 02:54:19 pm
Anybody been sent mail on the event yet?

Sent from my SM-A346B using Tapatalk

I haven't received anything yet

I see an email from Mark today at 9:03am :)

Amazing coincidence - so do I.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2023
Post by: mattc on 23 April, 2023, 05:52:53 pm
Somewhat reduced facilities, I see.  :(   Silver lining is a castle for the start  :thumbsup:

Noting the mandatory route; anyone know where the route avoiders have sinned in the past?
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 23 April, 2023, 06:01:47 pm
Guessing I can enjoy a Wetherspoons brekky from 8am for my finish receipt. I’’m not gonna cycle over 110 miles from Milton Keynes to Chepstow though (I’m not Teethgrinder), so I’ll be looking to park somewhere safe/free.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2023
Post by: Ajax Bay on 23 April, 2023, 07:09:20 pm
Somewhat reduced facilities, I see.  :(   Silver lining is a castle for the start  :thumbsup:
Noting the mandatory route; anyone know where the route avoiders have sinned in the past?
Mark's route is optimum and his phrase is "compulsory" btw - is this just visit all the controls in order and use the cafes designated?. Routesheet 'mandates' riders to ride via Michaelchurch Escley after Monmouth.
I know lots of people "avoid" this road by riding via Eywas Harold and the Golden Valley via Vowchurch. Good to see Mark is forcing the shorter and more scenic Black Mountains route and that great hairpin drop down into Hay.
Great location for a secret control noted on the routesheet and easier for Mark (or another) to get to than that windy bus stop in Hay:
"RIGHT at T, then 1st LEFT before Old Pandy Inn"
As for other 'avoidance' options, they will all add effort to a rider's burden: not sure what the issue is, if they want to ride further.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: GPS on 23 April, 2023, 08:45:42 pm
The gpx shows the route going via the Golden Valley and Vowchurch etc - not via Michaelchurch Escley. The route sheet goes via the latter route though.

Intriguing !
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ian H on 23 April, 2023, 08:57:28 pm
The gpx shows the route going via the Golden Valley and Vowchurch etc - not via Michaelchurch Escley. The route sheet goes via the latter route though.

Intriguing !

Mark's emailed blurb reinforces the gps route.  The routesheet seems to have been imperfectly adapted from an older one.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: jackt on 23 April, 2023, 10:51:51 pm
Update from Mark on his FB page:

Quote
BREVET CYMRU 2023
Route anomaly.
My unreserved apologies, I saved the route on two different devices, and picked the wrong one to distribute.
There is a conflict between route sheet and the .gpx file on stage 1, it's between Newcastle and Hay-on-Wye. At first that might sound disastrous. But in fact required route is extremely easy to follow, as you only have to navigate along two roads - rather than several lane changes.
Once you've passed through Rockfield and turned right for Newcastle, you follow the B4347 to Vowchurch, where you turn left on to the B4348, and follow all the way to Hay-on-Wye, you will have then migrated back onto the prescribed route before you reach Hay-on-Wye.
I will be reissuing the route sheet tomorrow.
Once again my unreserved apologies for any inconvenience caused.

I agree with others that the Michaelchurch Escley routing is preferable as a rider. I also prefer the Tirabad detour between Garth and Cynghordy and the Siloh road west of Llandovery. I'm not a fan of mandatory routes. If I want to ride a mandatory route I'll ride a DIY where at least it's me that's doing the mandating of me. 
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2023
Post by: PAC on 24 April, 2023, 10:40:32 pm
Somewhat reduced facilities, I see.  :(   Silver lining is a castle for the start  :thumbsup:

Noting the mandatory route; anyone know where the route avoiders have sinned in the past?
Forgive me, for I sinned once ;D I inadvertently took a wrong turn, purely an innocent mistake, honest O:-) and was forced against my will by my bicycle to go via Abergavenny and Talgarth to Hay-on-Wye a few years ago ;D
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: teethgrinder on 25 April, 2023, 09:58:58 am
Reading this thread reminds me that I remember following the GPX track up an unfamiliar road, which made me think, "I don't remember going this way before. We must have a new route. Interesting..."
The road became a Forestry Commission track, which might have been fun if I was better practiced at off road, I wasn't using road tyres and I had my luggage set up for better handling.
IIRC, that was last year.
The wiser riders just stayed on the A466 to Monmouth, which the Forestry Commission track rejoined after a bit of a "fun detour"
So, just a little heads up.

No BC for me this year  :'(
Just aiming for PBP and maybe get some of these Cycling UK bikepacking tours in. The Cymru/Porkers double was tempting but I doubt I have the fitness to pull that one off this year so good luck to anyone doing the double. :thumbsup: (or even just one of them for that matter!)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 25 April, 2023, 11:31:33 am
Somewhat reduced facilities, I see.  :(   Silver lining is a castle for the start 

Noting the mandatory route; anyone know where the route avoiders have sinned in the past?
Forgive me, for I sinned once ;D I inadvertently took a wrong turn, purely an innocent mistake, honest O:-) and was forced against my will by my bicycle to go via Abergavenny and Talgarth to Hay-on-Wye a few years ago ;D
We do not know where the organiser or his crack team of spys will be hiding. No deviation this year.

Sent from my SM-A346B using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: thing1 on 25 April, 2023, 02:23:52 pm
He's the weather bagel for Saturday (based on a 17H ride time, ish)
https://mywindsock.com/rwgps/route/42663296/#
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ian H on 25 April, 2023, 04:28:36 pm
He's the weather bagel for Saturday (based on a 17H ride time, ish)
https://mywindsock.com/rwgps/route/42663296/#

Ha!  25 years ago I could manage that kind of time.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 25 April, 2023, 05:06:47 pm
Yeah, I could more recently but I'm resolved to it being a slog and a 4am finish if I'm lucky
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ian H on 25 April, 2023, 05:32:49 pm
That time of life when finding a wheel to follow becomes a quest.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: vorsprung on 26 April, 2023, 02:19:50 pm
17h is unlikely.  My happy time estimate says 20h assuming everything is lovely

The Tregaron -> Newquay -> Llandovery bit is lumpy and slow on the whole.  And who could forget the last 20k?  Last time I sheltered under a railway bridge for two minutes, ate the last of my chocolate and then got rained on
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Zed43 on 26 April, 2023, 03:53:05 pm
Only in Wales it rains under bridges  ;D
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ajax Bay on 26 April, 2023, 05:14:31 pm
With (unforecast) clear skies, the moon will be 'up' from after the West End till just before dawn:
https://app.photoephemeris.com/?center=51.957173%2C-3.541374&ch=0&cw=100&dt=20230429051629%200100&ll=51.944900%2C-3.409882&sh=1.524&sw=100&z=12
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 26 April, 2023, 05:17:34 pm
Forecast looks reasonably warm for small hours, but I'm going to come prepped for near zero. Will feel like that anyway if tired and hungry.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ajax Bay on 26 April, 2023, 05:27:39 pm
Forecast looks reasonably warm for small hours, but I'm going to come prepped for near zero. Will feel like that anyway if tired and hungry.
Yes - 'very reasonable cool during the day and warm overnight' with little wind. Pessimism fosters prudence fosters warmer toes. Though Llangattock's hall is invariably warm.
https://www.ventusky.com/?p=51.91;-3.47;8&l=rain-3h&t=20230429/0600
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 26 April, 2023, 05:30:54 pm
LLangatock Hall is so much kinder than when it was at the top of the hill in Bwlch, and you'd get nice and toasty inside, then emerge, all warmed down, and face a 40mph descent immediately.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ian H on 26 April, 2023, 05:40:50 pm
LLangatock Hall is so much kinder than when it was at the top of the hill in Bwlch, and you'd get nice and toasty inside, then emerge, all warmed down, and face a 40mph descent immediately.

Descending on fixed, chasing Dave Lewis, kept the chill at bay.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Jeff E on 26 April, 2023, 05:52:44 pm
Freewheeling on gears I can still remember this being the first time that I feared coming off.   I was shaking so much from the cold and not knowing how sharp the bends were on that fast descent, on my first Brevet Cymru
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: PAC on 26 April, 2023, 10:47:31 pm
Freewheeling on gears I can still remember this being the first time that I feared coming off.   I was shaking so much from the cold and not knowing how sharp the bends were on that fast descent, on my first Brevet Cymru
Ditto on my first BC in 2011🥶😱
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: mattc on 27 April, 2023, 06:30:47 am
Guessing I can enjoy a Wetherspoons brekky from 8am for my finish receipt.
Good call - and it looks like there is an outdoory bit to park your bike round the back.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: thing1 on 27 April, 2023, 08:01:31 am
He's the weather bagel for Saturday (based on a 17H ride time, ish)
https://mywindsock.com/rwgps/route/42663296/#

Ha!  25 years ago I could manage that kind of time.
Haha ditto me 8 years ago.
On the real weather bagel I would have plugged in 22H as a reasonable estimate, but myWindsock is unreasonably complicated to set an expected time in, it always wants to work it out itself based on heuristics, and 17H is close enough to get the gist of what the weather is up to
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 27 April, 2023, 04:36:07 pm
Guessing I can enjoy a Wetherspoons brekky from 8am for my finish receipt.
Good call - and it looks like there is an outdoory bit to park your bike round the back.
The last time I went to Chepstow ‘spoons was on the Dean, and there were a dozen or so Audax bikes parked around the outside tables.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 27 April, 2023, 04:45:30 pm
sometimes it's even warm enough to eat outside next to the bikes, not often though.

Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 27 April, 2023, 08:00:32 pm
sometimes it's even warm enough to eat outside next to the bikes, not often though.
It’s my first time on this one. At least the mileage is greater than the 230 mile round trip in the car. I mighta cycled there if it was a later start, to enjoy a ‘spoons brekky before the start (sorry, TG).
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ajax Bay on 28 April, 2023, 10:08:11 pm
Bon courage to all riders.
https://www.ventusky.com/?p=51.91;-3.47;7&l=wind-10m&t=20230429/0600
Fog till the Golden Valley
Light S air or almost no wind.
Lowest temperature 9*C.
Rain forecast to come no closer than mid-Wales.
Hills less steep than normal, except New Quay.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 29 April, 2023, 03:09:14 am
Been awake since 1am, now 3am. Same last night. Not going to drag myself round hating every second.

Have a good ride everyone
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: thing1 on 30 April, 2023, 02:27:46 am
That was blimming awesome. 10/10 would ride again

Lovely to see some old familiar faces , meet some new friends, and commiserations to those for whom it wasn't to be today. It is only a bike ride, albeit a very fine specimen 🙂
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ajax Bay on 30 April, 2023, 09:20:30 am
sometimes it's even warm enough to eat outside next to the bikes, not often though.
It’s my first time on this one. At least the mileage is greater than the 230 mile round trip in the car. I mighta cycled there if it was a later start, to enjoy a ‘spoons brekky before the start (sorry, TG).
I'm told the 'usual suspects' are there right now.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 30 April, 2023, 09:47:22 am
sometimes it's even warm enough to eat outside next to the bikes, not often though.
It’s my first time on this one. At least the mileage is greater than the 230 mile round trip in the car. I mighta cycled there if it was a later start, to enjoy a ‘spoons brekky before the start (sorry, TG).
I'm told the 'usual suspects' are there right now.
I was soaked after the last 30 or so kms of rain. I had brought civvies and deodorant, but no towel, and didn’t feel like cleaning up (I brought baby wipes) and hanging around for ‘spoons to open. Home now, and might go to my local later.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: vorsprung on 30 April, 2023, 12:46:42 pm
Went ok until New Quay

Found the New Quay back to Llandovery section very difficult (nearly 4h to cover 60km), Llandovery to Llangattock seemed slow and of course the final 20km was awful.  I am lacking endurance

Finished at 5:30am, slowest ever Brevet Cymru.  Just missed the rain, it started pounding as I got back to the Hostel
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: P.P. on 30 April, 2023, 03:50:39 pm
I really enjoyed this one, it's a lovely route, along some lovely roads, with some stunning views, through what is a beautiful part of the country.

From my perspective, whilst I'm not for one second suggesting it was an easy day out, I found it an easier ride than last weeks Southern Shires. I'm guessing that the start time played a big part in that, because I'm pretty sure that I haven't got any fitter since last week.

The biggest positive for me though (apart from the brilliant route) was how good the roads were and how patient the traffic was (not that there was much to start with). Miles of smooth, pothole and chipseal free tarmac, made a lovely change from Southern England's pothole strewn mess, and the odd car that got held up as I toiled up some of the narrow climbs was patient and waited until there was plenty of room to get past.

The Tregaron, New Quay, Llandovery section was a bit cheeky, but generally most of the climbing was manageable and more than made up for, with some long, flowing descents (I don't mind going up if I can enjoy coming down).

Mark and his team put on a great day out, and even managed to arrange the first decent weather of the year.

Many thanks to all involved, and well done to all who rode, I can't wait to come back for another go next year.

Oh, and if the lady who'd obviously had a few too many and was having a wee in the middle of the road as I came through Abergavenny happens to be reading, the middle of the road, with your back to the traffic in the dark probably isn't the best place to be on a Saturday night. ::-)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Solocle on 30 April, 2023, 07:30:01 pm
Someone who was doing BC (I assume! they asked me if I was audaxing, and had an audax rig) caught up with me doing my own ride, headed south from Lampeter, just before the A40 turning at about 17:30. If that was you :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: hellymedic on 03 May, 2023, 08:41:19 pm
Oh, and if the lady who'd obviously had a few too many and was having a wee in the middle of the road as I came through Abergavenny happens to be reading, the middle of the road, with your back to the traffic in the dark probably isn't the best place to be on a Saturday night. ::-)

I confess to having done similar on other rides.

When there are ditches at the side of the road and you are cycling alone, it's the 'least worst' option.

I had imbibed no alcohol, mind...
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: hellymedic on 01 March, 2024, 05:32:25 pm
My Welsh spies inform me the West End Café, in Llandovery, has ‘gone posh’...
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bromptonlad on 03 March, 2024, 10:09:07 am
My Welsh spies inform me the West End Café, in Llandovery, has ‘gone posh’...

As in they no longer use ultra processed industrial bread from the local costco?
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: hellymedic on 03 March, 2024, 02:43:36 pm
Dunno but can you imagine a midnight invasion of hordes of hungry AUKs here?
(https://scontent.flhr4-4.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/430695332_10226556832401965_6882079776359754180_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=dd5e9f&_nc_ohc=i8WnZhXQhk8AX_cAoRU&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-4.fna&oh=00_AfAVRuewYv3aMUV6o71h8zbKjMxryyEDWeoXHzNVXKxkwA&oe=65E992F7)
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Basil on 03 March, 2024, 02:59:58 pm
Well they've improved the decor, but have they improved the food?
S'pose I'll have go and find out.  :D
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 March, 2024, 05:30:49 pm
Oh. I rather liked it as it was.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Bromptonlad on 03 March, 2024, 07:36:42 pm
floor looks lino to me, so still AUK approved
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: PAC on 03 March, 2024, 10:07:44 pm
All I worry about there is the movement sensitive light in the toilets…that doesn’t pick up movement in the cubicle🤣
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Ian H on 03 March, 2024, 10:32:21 pm
All I worry about there is the movement sensitive light in the toilets…that doesn’t pick up movement in the cubicle🤣

Faecal movements in the dark.  Could be a good band name.
Title: Re: Brevet Cymru 2022
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 04 March, 2024, 09:18:17 am
All I worry about there is the movement sensitive light in the toilets…that doesn’t pick up movement in the cubicle🤣
you're on a timed event, you shouldn't be in there long enough  ???