Sorry you couldn't make it PAC, you would have enjoyed a beautiful winters day out on the bike.
A smaller field than usual, I think there were 58 starters out if 115 entrants which is a shame as it was cold, as advertised, but bright and largely ice-free. A lovely winter route,the cold weather prompted some efficient controlling as I was keen to get in before temperatures dropped significantly once darkness descended. Picked up a chap on only his second audax but he was going well and proved good company. There was a decent group of us out to Alton on the first leg but they seem to drop off one by one, never to be seen again.
Some varied food options for me on this one, my 5th SBWW - A Greggs pasty in Alton, the chip shop in Pangbourne and a quick coffee at Wheatley. Aside from that, the hills were all present and correct; Whitchurch tougher than I remember but my gears were playing up so couldn't access the Granny ring, Aston Hill always a lovely climb in fading light, and Windsor hill a nasty closer to any ride from this part of the world.
Thanks to Terry and helpers, always a genial welcome for the weary randonneur. I was hoping to have a pint with my fellow traveller but we seem to lose each other in the palace of glittering delights that is Beaconsfield Services. If you are reading this, let's do it again sometime.
