Many thanks to Liam and all the helpers for another great event and congratulations on the success of your efforts to attract a large number of female riders. The controls were all very well supplied. Given the wonderful large cake portions at Chepstow, I was amused to see the two banners next to each other outside that read: 'Audax UK, The new weight watchers'. I agree the Henley control was helpful too - I guess it was much more interesting for the garage attendant than his usual night shift!
Having said all that, I think it was one of the toughest rides (if not the toughest ride) I have done. The head/cross winds made the first section more difficult than usual as it broke up groups of riders. The wind continued to demand more effort on much of the rest of the section to Chepstow. As others have said, the cold after dark really sapped any remaining strength too. Given all that, can't complain too much about a 3:30am finish, just 30 minutes later than 2 years ago. Yes, I knew it was going to be cold, but I didn't expect to then have to scrape ice off the car windscreen in May!