Tim's summary:
That was the first audax I'd ridden for a while, and had been off the bike for a couple of weeks before hand. So when Sgt. Pluck suggested I go ahead while he fixed his visitation only a short distance from the start on the grounds that "he was going to be slow", I panicked. That was my strategy.
Anyway, we went round more or less together, except when the good Sgt. sped ahead so he could grab a fag break...
Rode for a bit, as noted elsewhere, with boab. She demonstrated her fine pumping action not long after I identified her as "the one who does things to pigs".
Disappointingly few Red Kites, but marvelous scenery and autumn colours. I suffered on the middle leg, climbing up to Graham Chipping Norton, but the Food of Champions (beans on toast anna cake) put me right.
Route sheet was as clear as a bell, going through Bicester was easy. And the soup at the end was just what was needed. I was bit tired at that point, so sat away from the crowds, chatting to Swarmcatcher.
Many thanks phild and your band of merry helpers.