Southgate Cycling Club Gazette

Alpine Cols Trip 2025

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:03:34 GMT

New Title

Alpine Cols trip (2025)

‘Deviation’

A week of lightweight touring taking in some notable French Alpine cols. Simon presents me with a rough circular route scrawled on a map. Anti-clockwise from Chambery.

Four months later and it’s day one. We’re up into the hills south of Chambery, the sharp cliffs of the Chartreuse to our right.

But half a morning’s climbing becomes wasted effort as we are forced to backtrack thanks to a road closure. We seem not to have registered the deeper significance of the word “deviation”. Stunning scenery with mid-level cols to pique our interest. A long day in the saddle ends at a hotel with pool in Uriage, south-east of Grenoble.

Stats: 98km, 2588m of climbing.

Day two and we continue south via Vizille with its chateau which played a significant role in the French Revolution. Gently undulating countryside takes us to lunch at our most southerly point - Valbonnais. A swim in a lake there provides relief from the heat. We’re aiming for no more than six hours in the saddle per day. We head north over the pleasant Col d’Ornon (1371m) towards our hotel in Bourg d’Oisans. The Hotel de Milan is an art deco treasure (think Poirot). Various in-keeping objets - eg ancient valve radios, the lift - are scattered around. The staff are friendly and there’s a well thought-out bike-cave in the basement.

Stats: 85.5km, 1780m.

Galibier

We spurn the delights of Alpe d’Huez on day three. We’ve both done it before - without luggage. So instead it’s a long drag up, eastwards, to the Col de Lautaret. Though a relatively gentle ascent I somehow find it an effort, relieved somewhat by the great scenery. The much steeper climb to the celebrated Galibier follows a picnic lunch in a field away from the bustle of the Lautaret. The Galibier (2646m) is the usual mixture of cyclists, camper vans, high-end sports cars and motorbikes.

We all squeeze into the restricted space amicably enough, taking turns with selfies in front of the relevant road signs. Then it’s down, down, down - a twisting descent northwards to the ski resort of Valloire. A slight ramp up to the Col du Telegraphe (1566m) before another superb plunge into the Maurienne valley.

Stats: 2701m, 107km

Wind

Day four is a planned day off the bike. We stay at a B and B run by the lovely Nathalie and Bruno in Avrieux, a village just up the valley from Modane. Our day includes a stroll up to the 100m St Benoit waterfall and a visit to one of the 19th-century cliff-top forts built to keep the French out of Italy. I am fascinated by a striking windtunnel facility run by Onera - the French aerospace lab. Apparently it’s several tunnels which can blast winds up to hypersonic speeds. Anything from cycles to rockets are tested there.

Stats, 0m, 0km (unless you count walking)

Day five. “Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle.” Simon, map in hand, illuminates a series of minor roads which will keep us off some of the busier main drag to the Col d’Iseran (2764m) - gateway to Val d’Isere from the south. Stunning climb. Towards the top I try to distract myself from the effort by working out where I’ve snowboarded in the past on the now snowless terrain. The summit is cold, the descent even colder. Vin chaud in Bar Quinze in Val thaws our extremities (no, not those ones) before the never-ending descent to Bourg St Maurice (where it does in fact end).

Stats: 108km, 2267m

Day six and we climb vaguely north-west from Bourg over two cols - the Cormet de Roselende (1967m) and Col des Saisies (1650m). Psychologically easier than yesterday’s Iseran, we glide up as a persistent drizzle impinges on our serenity. Simon’s Di2 (electric gears) start complaining half-way through. The only option - a recharge of gears and bodies at a hilltop rustic restaurant. Bavette (flank) de boeuf, spaghetti and salad - excellent but not my usual midday cycling fare.

Stats: 2222m, 76km

We wake up in Flumet below the Col des Aravis for our final day’s riding back to Chambery. We opt for less climbing (vraiment?). South-west to the industrial town of Ugine, then north-west to Lake Annecy along a bespoke tarmac cycle path popular with everyone from lycra-clad pelotons to families and elderly shoppers.

At a distance, the mountains soar on either side. The post-lunch (whopping veggie baguettes) haul takes us through the Parc Naturel Regional du Massif des Bauges, south towards Chambery. A couple of casual cols to keep the legs turning but the picturesque takes centre-stage here followed by a long and busy descending return to our start point.

Stats 1528m, 98km

Details:

Navigation: Maps (eg Michelin Isere,Savoie, 333 local), Googlemaps, Garmin,Komoot.

Getting there: Eurostar to Paris, TGV to Chambery.

Bikes: Rented Scott Addicts, delivered to our hotel in Chambery. Carbon frame and forks, disc brake, Di2 105 gear set-up.

Luggage: Bar bags, frame bags, saddle packs.

Accommodation: B and Bs and hotels, mostly booked the day before or on the day.

Runs list - 8th December

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 07:50:38 GMT

Where we are going as Autumn draws in......

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The North London and Herts Jumble Sale - Saturday 9th November

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 07:43:16 GMT

Come along and find your next cycling bargain!

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Club Runs - 28th April - 6th July 2024

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 07:25:27 GMT

Upcoming Club Runs

Training Runs: Saturday and Sunday at 9am from Cafe Nero in Enfield Town - usually go for a 40-60 mile circular ride at a fast-ish training pace, without stops.

Sunday Touring Runs: Meet Cafe Nero, Enfield Town at 08:45 for 09:00 start unless an alternative venue/time is shown. Intermediate ride will be 12 to 14mph to morning stop, approx 20 to 30 miles. The relaxed ride is shorter and does what it says on the tin!

Whichever ride you chose, remember no-one gets left behind.

Touring Rides: 28th April - 6th July 2024

Date

Ride 1

Intermediate

Ride 2

Relaxed, shorter

28/04/2024

09:00

The Shed in The Maltings, Sawbridgeworth

Lunch: Ermines Cafe, Thundridge

Bebo Cafe Hertford

05/05/2024

Assisted Ride: From Hertford at 09:30 to Jordan Mill nr. Biggleswade - details overleaf.

Meet 09:00, Enfield for

Ermines Cafe, Thundridge

Bank Holiday

12/05/2024 09:00

Brewhouse, Wheathampstead

Lunch: The Hub, Redbourn

Truly Scrumptious, Ware

19/05/2024 08:15 Start

Club 25k Time Trial on the F7/25k at Brickendon

26/05/2024 09:00

Ride London Essex 100 - see overleaf for more details

Blue Boar Deli, Abridge

Bank Holiday

02/06/2024 09:00

Abbots Langley

Lunch: The Hub, Redbourn

Bebo Cafe, Hertford

09/06/2024 09:00

Village Tearoom, Hatfield Heath

Lunch: Golden Fleece, Braughing

Orchard Tearoom, Shenley

16/06/2024 09:00

Codicote: Spokes or Vanstones

Lunch: Mill End Plants, Rushden

Ermines Cafe, Thundridge

23/06/2024 09:00

Brewhouse, Wheathampstead

Lunch: The Hub, Redbourn

Bebo Cafe, Hertford

30/06/2024 09:00

Village Tearoom, Blackmore

Lunch: Fox Inn, Matching Tye

Truly Scrumptious, Ware

Dieppe Raid - see overleaf

06/07/2024 09:00

Abbots Langley

Lunch: The Hub, Redbourn

Orchard Tearoom, Shenley

Further Info & Forthcoming Events

Sunday 05/05/2024

09:30

Assisted Ride from Hertford to Jordans Mill

Meet at Cafe Nero in Salisbury Square, Hertford for 09:30 start. A train arrives at Hertford North @ 09:13 and one at Hertford East @ 09:06. There's also the option to drive, a few of the car parks will be free on Sunday, or, for the really fit, to ride to Hertford..

Sunday 19/05/2024

Club 25k Time Trial on the F7/25k

Sign-on from 07:45 at the Village Hall on Brickendon Green. First rider off at 08:15.

Refreshments available at the Village Hall both before and after event.

Sunday 26/05/2024

Ford Ride London 100

More informatiion and entry at:

https://www.ridelondon.co.uk/

Wednesdays from 12/06/2024

Club Evening 10's on the F7/10A

Club Evening 10's on 12th, 19th, 26th June and 3rd, 10th and 17th July

Sign-on from 18:45 at Brickendon Green, First rider off at 19:15.

Refreshment post-race at the Farmers Boy!

Friday 21/06/2024

Club Night Ride

Meet at Enfield for 24:00 start.

Details of destination and route will be available soon. Put the date in your

diary.

Friday 28/06/2024 to Monday 01/07/2024

Dieppe Raid

A not too serious weekend in Dieppe for the Randonee de Trois Vallees on

Sunday. The remainder of the weekend will be devoted mainly to sampling

food and drink!

Accommodation in the Windsor Hotel. Places still available!

More information & entry: https://www.dieppetour.com/

In memory of Michael Lees

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 07:13:52 GMT

Remembering our Dear Friend and club member

Our dear friend and fellow club member Mike Lees died suddenly on 6th April 2024 on the way to the Opera with his wife Ginny. I know this would have been a huge shock to us all, not least because he was always so healthy, fit and robust. Receiving the message about Mike's passing hit us all like a thunderbolt and the outpouring of love and emotion that followed is a true reflection of the esteem in which Mike was held.

Mike joined the club in 2013, becoming General Secretary in 2016. His love affair with cycling started as a young boy growing up near Backpool, where his father was an engineer who did work at the pleasure beach. Mike often talked about his cycling adventures in the Northwest as well as his avid support for his local team Fleetwood Town.

Each of us will have our own memories and stories about Mike, my own memories of him go back a long way. Being the same age and both studying Architecture, we arrived in London to work for a year to complete our studies. After qualifying we found ourselves working for the same Practice. We played cricket there and we laughed over beers and talked about finding places to do up and starting a family. Fast forward a few years, Mike and Ginny are living in Muswell Hill with their four children; Imogen, Miranda, Rupert & Freddie and our paths cross again when our daughters end up in the same class at school.

It is difficult to explain such a sudden loss to ourselves. The emotions that we all feel will be different. What I can be certain of is that Mike was a superb General Secretary, who was always organised, prepared and willing to help in any way he could. He served the club brilliantly, he was liked and respected and he will be very sorely missed.

He had that that knowing smile and dry wit that could turn an ordinary conversation into something altogether more interesting and insightful, and often had us in fits of laughter. Mike had a calmness about him and an uncanny ability to put you at ease, to make you feel welcome, and part of the group. He was always there to offer helpful advice or explain some technical aspect of bike mechanics that I'm sure many of us found baffling but incredibly useful. Mike was just a top, top bloke and we shall all miss him.

Rest in peace

Club Runs 11th Feb - 21st April

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:50:40 GMT

Spring is coming.....

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SCC Night Ride 2023

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 07:19:14 GMT

The 2023 SCC Night Ride - From the Big Smoke to the City of Dreaming Spires.

James Leek, Alex, Alfie, Andy Z, Calvin, Duncan, Gaye, James D, Laurence, Mark, Mick, Mike, Ofer, Sameer, Steve Westcough, Steve Wright, Sean and Tat.

As 18 riders set off from the top of Alexandra Palace, the annual SCC night ride had begun. This is a tale of flux, as you will see. Kicking off from Cafe Nero in Enfield at midnight, and picking up riders on the way, the pelotons total number waxed and waned throughout. Departure was delayed temporarily.

A carful of young men, dressed immaculately pulled up alongside us. Their black attire matching the polish of their convertible. They quizzed us in amazement about our venture. “To Oxford ? At night ? In the rain ?”

they asked, their car roof down as the drizzle began. We were just as confused as they were! Eager to get started we bade them farewell and the ride officially began.

The night was warm and cloudy with a fine mizzle ebbing and flowing as the night wore on, necessitating intermittent pauses to add or remove layers. Leaving the view of the London lights behind we headed towards Highgate. Having barely traversed a mile, our Captain James pulled over to attend to a mechanical. The group waited in clusters further up the hill for his return, to lead us on to the historic city of Oxford. Whilst we waited Alfie encouraged the group to ‘ buddy-up ’ for safety and to avoid anyone being left alone in the dark. After a short interval, Andy relayed James’ requirement of domestique support for a problem with his nuts. We were to press on and he would catch us up. Accidentally leaving Alfie behind, alone in the dark and ‘ buddy-less ’ (sorry Alfie!), a group of 16 continued towards Marble Arch for the traditional group photo. It was then we realised our leader would not be rejoining us. His mechanical proved terminal and he would sadly miss out on the rest of the ride.

Disappointed that his buddy system had not been adopted, a disgruntled Alfie caught up with the group. We made our way through Central London, our number now 17. Late night merrymakers gave voice to our progress with words of encouragement, bewilderment and insults as we traversed through the city.

“it’s the tour de Knightsbridge!”

“there’s hundreds of them!”

“bloody cyclists”

We passed carefully over a heavily contra flowed Hammersmith bridge and across the Thames.

The next part of the journey passed without incident, other than a few items falling off bikes. James D and Andy took up the mantle of caretaker ride leaders between them. Out of London we alighted at the first cafe stop, an accommodating 24 hour garage in Shepperton. Bemused at the 3am appearance of 17 cyclists and assuming we were on a charity ride. Our response? “No, this is just for fun!”

Refuelled and refreshed after coffees and sustenance (and a tea-accino served with frothy milk), we soldiered on towards our destination.

Soon after, a man-and-van warned us against traversing a closed road due to road works.

“Even for cyclists!”

he protested as we proceeded to ignore him; only to discover minutes later that he was right. A series of fences blocked our path. Calvin and a small but determined crew skirted the first fence with ease and attempted to get over, or under, the next fence with a pick axe and grappling hooks, possibly found in Steve Westcough’s enormous saddle bag… Dejected, and admitting defeat, we turned back.

As daylight broke some expert navigating ensured we were soon back on course, but behind schedule due to the unforeseen delays. A breakaway group of seven formed to assist Alex in catching a pre-booked train from Moreton-in-Marsh. This left behind ten who pressed on at a fair pace towards Windsor, passing by the famous Castle after a steady incline and a brief wrong turning.

We picked up Steve Westcough en route , who had been dropped, taking our number to 11. Aptly, with July’s Buck Moon just around the corner, we soon encountered a startled deer, spooked by the traffic, bounding along the road. For one hairy moment, an accident seemed possible. Our thoughts turned back to the fabled Ian vs. Deer?…Elk??…Moose???… incident of SCC night ride legend.

Continuing on James’ route, we followed and criss-crossed the Isis. The groups reconvened at garage #2 for a welcome break. Henley-on-Thames was fully kitted out for its regatta (including the odd boater hat and striped blazer returning home in the early hours). Here, our group fragmented further; Alex pressing on towards the booked train; Sean heading back to London to tend to a sick pet; and the SAS (Steve, Alfie, Steve) aiming for the Oxford park run (trainers the actual contents of Steve W’s saddle bag!). A disappointed Alfie, not quite making it to Oxford due to a cracked wheel rim, passed the remaining group on his return to Henley-on-Thames to complete his duathlon separately.

The remaining 12 resumed their voyage, heading into the picturesque Chilterns. With breakfast on our minds, Mike warned us not to over-fuel and ruin the long awaited feast. The lack of sleep beginning to take its toll, we made our way to the long, seemingly never ending climb up to Pishill, followed by the welcome, but slightly scary (due to sleep deprived brains), descent into Wattlington.

Encountering friendly, fresh faced cyclists heading the opposite direction, we arrived in the City of Dreaming Spires. Laurence took the lead in guiding our weary frames to the Spire cafe in the market for the well deserved and expertly executed Full English fare. Surrounded by market stall workers setting up for the day, we rested, like battle worn troops, recounting our memories of the nights’ adventures. After a quick group photo by an obliging waiter (Ofer appearing to have swapped his bike for a wheelchair), Mick parted for a lift from his wife. The remaining 11 headed to the railway station (Duncan shamelessly profiteering from the resale of the group tickets). We dozed in a daze on our way back to The Big Smoke for the final leg of the journey.

Arriving in Marylebone to heaving crowds preparing for the Pride celebrations we split again. A small number heading towards Liverpool Street Station for the next train home. A small group followed Calvin begrudgingly towards Swains Lane for the short but punishing climb. A first for some of our number, making it to the top after cycling 90 miles and on no sleep, chapeau! As we passed through Muswell Hill and towards Bounds Green and beyond, one by one we dropped off to our final destinations, before dropping off to sleep in our long awaited beds.

Another eventful annual Southgate Cycling Club night ride had come to a close. This tale cannot be ended without a big thank you to our absent leader James. It would not have happened without his scrupulous organisation and top-rate route planning. Hats off to you James.

Weekly 10 - Evening Time Trials - Starting 14th June

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 15:23:28 GMT

Time for the Race of Truth.......

The first of this year’s Weekly 10 Mile Time Trials is next Wednesday, 14th June at Brickendon Green. The events run every Wednesday until 20th July, 6 in total.

The time trials are open to everyone regardless of experience and standard so come along and give it a try. You can set your own time for you to improve on during the series and you'll enjoy the sociable atmosphere. There are awards, of course, for the fastest rider, for the most improved rider and for the fastest novice. These will be presented at the Club's Annual Dinner in December.

The course is a 10 mile long loop starting on Brickendon Lane just after the Farmers Boy pub and finishing on Brickendon Green just before the junction of Pembridge Lane and Brickendon Lane. I've attached a GPX and map of the course. The course will be marked with direction arrows and marshalls at key points. The route is also available on RidewithGPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35606800

Sign-on from 18:45 in the Village Hall car park at Brickendon Green, first rider off at 19:00. There will be a £4 CTT levy for each rider.

Spring - Summer Runs List

Sun, 07 May 2023 17:03:48 GMT

Sun's Out - Bike's Out

Training Runs: Saturday and Sunday at 9am from Cafe Nero in Enfield Town - usually go for a 40-60 mile circular ride at a fast-ish training pace, without stops.

Sunday Touring Runs: Meet Cafe Nero, Enfield Town at 08:45 for 09:00 start unless an alternative venue/time is shown. Intermediate ride will be 12 to 14mph to morning stop, approx 20 to 30 miles.

The relaxed ride is shorter and does what it says on the tin!

Whichever ride you chose, remember no-one gets left behind.

Touring Rides: 7th May - 16th July 2023

07/05/2023 09:00

Something Lovely Tearoom, Puckeridge

Lunch: Mill End Plants, Rushden

Orchard Tearoom, Shenley

14/05/2023 09:00

Village Tearoom, Hatfield Heath Lunch: Golden Fleece, Braughing

Bebo Cafe, Hertford

21/05/2023 09:15

25k Club Time Trial

Brickendon Green - see details overleaf

25k Club TT - see overleaf

28/05/2023 09:00

Marleys Tearoom, Wheathampstead

Lunch: The Hub, Redbourn

Truly Scrumptious, Ware

Ride London - see overleaf

04/06/2023 09:00

Abbots Langley

Lunch: Bebo Cafe, Hatfield

Bebo Cafe, Hertford

11/06/2023 09:00

The Shed in The Maltings, Sawbridgeworth

Lunch: Lordship Tearoom, Writtle

Blue Boar Deli, Abridge

18/06/2023 09:00

Codicote - Spokes or Vanstones

Mill End Plants, Rushden

Orchard Tearoom, Shenley

25/06/2023 09:00

Village Cafe, Blackmore

Leather Bottle, Pleshey

Bebo Cafe, Hertford

Dieppe Raid - see overleaf

02/07/2023 09:00

Abbots Langley

Lunch: Bell @ Studham

Truly Scrumptious, Ware

09/07/2023 09:00

Village Tearoom, Hatfield Heath

Lunch: Golden Fleece, Braughing

Country Bumpkin, Tewin

16/07/2023 09:00

Codicote - Spokes or Vanstones

Lunch: Mill End Plants, Rushden

Blue Boar Deli, Abridge

Further Info & Forthcoming Events

Thursday 04/05/23

Club Night

From 20:00 at Jubilee Hall, Parsonage Lane, Enfield

Sunday 14/05/23

Tour Essex Sportive

Choice of 42m, 72m or 110m starting from Redbridge. Follow link below for full details. https://www.sportiveuk.co.uk/

Sunday 21/05/23

Club 25k Time Trial at Brickendon Green on F7/25A

Sign-in from 08:30 at control in Village Hall, Brickendon Green. First rider off at

09:15. Post race refreshments at control

Option to ride to Country Bumpkin afterwards

Sunday 29/05/2023

Ride London 100

Details of routes and timings being finalised. Further info and details on https://www.ridelondon.co.uk/

Wednesdays from 07/06/23

Club Evening 10's: 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th June, 5th, 12th 19th July

Time Trials on F7/10A from Brickendon Green; sign on from 18:45, first rider off 19:15

Friday 23/06/23 to Monday 26/06/23

Dieppe Raid

A not too serious weekend in Dieppe for the Randonee de Trois Vallees on Sunday. The remainder of the weekend will be devoted mainly to sampling food and drink!

Friday 30/06/2023

Club Night Ride

Meet at Enfield for 24:00 start.

Details of destination and route will be available soon. Put the date in your diary.

Sunday 12/09/23

Club Handicap 25k Time Trial at Brickendon Green on F7/25A

Sign-in from 08:30 at control in Village Hall, Brickendon Green. First rider off at 09:15. Post race refreshments at control

Option to ride to Country Bumpkin afterwards

Sunday 01/10/23

Club Hill Climb on Essendon Hill

Check the website for updates: http://www.southgatecyclingclub.co.uk/

Winter Runs List

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 18:48:44 GMT

Training Runs: Saturday and Sunday at 9am from Cafe Nero in Enfield Town - usually go for a 40-60 mile circular ride at a fast-ish training pace, without stops.

Sunday Touring Runs : Meet Cafe Nero, Enfield Town at 08:45 for 09:00 start unless an alternative venue/time is shown. Intermediate ride will be 12 to 14mph to morning stop, approx 20 to 30 miles.

The relaxed ride is shorter and does what it says on the tin!

New Paragraph

End of Season Tour (The Marmite Tour!)

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 17:30:29 GMT

Love it or Hate It

SCC End Or Season Tour 2022 - Norfolk (The Marmite Tour)

Members of the peloton: John Hepburn, Pat, Bruce, Chris Bee, Duncan, Julian, Laurence, Martin, Steve Westcough and Tat.

Our adventure began at Cambridge North where eight of our group (minus Duncan who was to join us later) set off along the busway, soon to stumble at the first hurdle navigating roadworks. We were shortly back on track and out into the Cambridgeshire countryside. Flat and sunny riding led us towards Norfolk and Mildenhall for our first lunch stop at the Half Moon pub for BOGOF burgers and beers, almost all round. Including a ‘green’ burger that was actually green! The highlight of the morning was Chris Bee drafting a tractor along a country road, showing us that he still can’t resist those old racing instincts.

Julian’s route as ride leader only leading us astray down a dead end road once before lunch, forcing us to retrace our steps past an old railway line. Passing cornfields and sugar beet in the hot sun, busy traffic dictated that we split the group to enable easier and safer passage of vehicles. Though soon it transpired that not one of the group could count, as the group sizes fluctuated wildly.

Turning off the busy A roads onto Harling Drove we were almost glad of the gravel, and soon wished we were still on it as the road turned to sand, shot with shale, reminiscent of a desert, with a few roots thrown in for good measure. Images of Lawrence of Arabia were etched inside our eyelids against the rays as we were forced to drudge through the sand pushing our trusty steeds in place of camels for around 2 miles in the heat, our shoes filling with the grains as our spirits dropped. Martin looking downtrodden, the seemingly endless trek triggering memories of long beach hikes from his childhood, the troup trudged on. Confused by the number of parked vehicles containing solo and coupled passengers in this wilderness, some of whom were lacking clothing, multiple theories were soon put forth for their presence, dogging being the most popular by far!

The relief was undeniable when we eventually came to a tarmac cross road, as we all paused to pour sand from our shoes and devise alternate routes to avoid more of the same. After the dust bowl interlude, the final leg of the first day was pleasant and we arrived somewhat later than planned in Great Ellingham, Laurence winning the first sprint finish, or was it Chris Bee? (a disagreement over where the finish line was leaves the victor of the ‘whippersnapper’ versus pensioner race still in dispute) to be greeted by our President John Hepburn at the door of the Crown pub.

A few short minutes later we had arrived at our digs, weary and in need of a freshen up, only to be jolted back to alertness by an explosion echoing around the driveway, when a blowout from Bruce’s inner tube took the tyre clean off the rim. After the excitement died down we all slunk off to our rooms (Bruce to his separate accommodation on a local farm, hoping the predictions of sleeping in the pigsty and killing his own breakfast were unfounded), to wash the remainder of the sand from between our toes.

We reconvened for dinner at the Crown, joined by John and Pat, and later Duncan, for an outstanding dinner with plenty of beer and cider to wash it down. Post prandially, Duncan’s soon to become famous bag of maps and a couple of lengths of string marked with pen denoting map scales appeared and were spread ceremoniously on the dais in the pub to conceive a route for the second day of riding. Somewhere in the realm of 60 miles was all that could be extracted from him upon questioning of the planned distance, which aroused early suspicion amongst some members of the peloton of the following days ride leader. Martin could be heard muttering “its a thankless task being ride leader”.

The advent of the following morning saw the group gathering for a ‘continental breakfast’ of cereal and toast. The disappointment was palpable by all upon discovering an empty marmite jar in the fridge and there may have been a hint of jealousy at the knowledge of Bruce enjoying his home cooked, locally sourced, full English just a short distance away. Marmite (or lack of it) soon became the theme of the weekend, and a mission to replenish it for the next morning key in keeping the team motivated, ‘Say Marmite!’ even replacing ‘say cheese!’ in group photos.

After a quick group photo (‘say Marmite!’), we left John and Pat to do their own thing in the local area and started our day heading towards Shipdham and onwards with the weather on our side, stopping for Steve (shockingly the only one on the tour), to explore the local churches of Bradenham on his own personal Who Do You Think You Are? Journey, searching for evidence of Whiskars (the name of his great, great, great grandfather) in the church records and headstones. Discovering in one, a world war 2 museum that informed us Nelsons grandfather had been a rector in the local area during the 1700’s. We headed onwards towards Dereham where an apparent lack of decent coffee saw us splitting between Costa and the Sunshine cafe (with a fabulous panorama of London Town across the wall) for elevenses.

Our collective carried on through picturesque villages and past pig farms (much to my delight, pigs being my favourite animal) towards our lunch destination of Norwich city centre. Close to our target, a hungry group of dissenters put forward stopping short when passing a welcoming pub on the outskirts, only to be encouraged to press on by the ride leader, promising only 2 miles further, diligently checking his ordinance survey maps attached to his handlebars, the route marked in highlighter. When two miles became four and a half there was audible rebellion within the ranks, but all was forgiven when we arrived at our landing place of Norwich market and filled our grumbling stomachs with pizza and curry.

Refuelled and refreshed, we recommenced our journey with a minor wrong turn causing more murmurs at Mulbarton. Wishing to avoid an unpleasant scene, a much appreciated stop for ice lollies under the Market Cross in Wymondham was factored in before the home stretch. Where Ian met a fellow fixie, and where we picked up a couple of local youths. Riding what appeared to be a stolen Norwich city hire bike and a BMX, they accompanied us for a couple of miles to the edge of town, where the group split in a final fit of mutiny between the scenic map route and the ‘direct’ bike computer route. Upon realising we were riding another eight miles to Great Ellingham, the youths decided against accompanying us further (f*** that!, were their exact words I believe), we bid our goodbyes and they returned to their peers.

The two groups arrived back at the accommodation in close succession, Laurence having won the sprint finish, without dispute on this occasion.

After a quick shower, (and a swim for Duncan, who came dangerously close to a completing a triathlon…), it was back to the Crown for another evening of superb dining, accompanied by more beer, wine, and whisky for Bruce, all topped off with outstanding service. Kudos to the waitress for recognising that yes, it was in fact the same guy (Laurence) whose meal was late both nights running!

On the final morning, the appearance of a fresh pot of Marmite in the fridge caused jubilation and was carried ceremoniously across the room, held aloft by Martin and was hastily passed around the group to sample its delights. Replenished, 8 of us set forth on the last day of riding, returning to Cambridge North, replacing Martin with Duncan, the former heading to the local train station. Julian once again taking up the mantle of ride leader to navigate us back from whence we came.

The route was direct and swift and once again the weather fairies were smiling on us as we made our way through the beautiful countryside, making sure to indulge Julian’s ever growing collection of village signs (16 in total for the entire tour - in order of appearance; Wicken; Mildenhall; Wretham; Great Ellingham; Cranworth; Bradenham; Scarning; Elsing; Swainthorpe; Wymondham; Attleborough; Honington; Hargrave; Swaffham Bulbeck; Stow Cum Quy).

We arrived without incident for lunch at the Old Cannon Brewery in Bury St Edmunds in good time to sample their flavoursome beer on 1/3 pint sharing planks and their appetising lunch menu, joined for a swift half by Pat and John en route with our luggage to Cambridge.

Full and weary, the final leg of the tour began without incident. Stopping for a team photo at Hargrave this soon changed as Chris Bee stashed crab apples to use as ammo, his target being the rest of the peloton, evocative of Just William. Luckily for us with relatively poor aim.

Around 15 minutes from Cambridge North, the second mechanical of the weekend occurred, unluckily for Bruce the same mechanical and the same rider with yet another inner tube blowout, thankfully not on a busy main road. Expertly aided by Ian we were soon on our way again and all too soon saying our goodbyes at the end of yet another fantastically organised Southgate Cycling Club tour. A special thank you goes out to John for all the work put into this delightful late summer excursion. A great time was had by all.

Tour'a Jura

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 17:11:03 GMT

A week in the Jura (the Franche-Comté region)

Saturday 7 ^th May 2022:

4 SCC members headed south from Winchmore Hill at an ungodly 4.30 am in a VW Sharan for the 500 mile journey to the little known region of Franche-Comté. The 4 bikes (with front wheel’s removed) fitted neatly into the vehicle with plenty of space for bags and riders

Steve Westcough and Duncan Connolly’s planning and driving ensured Mike Lees and Steve Brink had only to watch the French scenery unfold and we arrived as planned at 5pm in Besançon to experience the first of two Saturday nights in by far the most prosperous place we were to visit. On both Saturdays we dined in the centre of this unspoilt and attractive city. Besançon is blessed with a wide range of eateries.

DAY 1: Besançon to Arbois, 61km, 511 meter climb.

This is a self supported holiday so every morning we installed our carriers on the bikes – two Topeaks, a Carradice Super C and an Apidura. Some required more of a stretch than others to “get your leg over when monter le vélo”.

Duncan’s Super C supported two French baguettess and Steve W stored the daily ripening Camembert in his trainers atop the Topeak. With additions of ham and tomatoes from Mike and Steve B , the daily lunch was well looked after.

It was the 8 ^th May, Victory in Europe Day, so a national holiday. We set off along the river Doub for a warm Sunday ride that took in a visit to Arc-et-Senans (Royal Salt Works) built just before the French Revolution in eccentric architectural style. This was the easiest cycling day, and knowing what was coming we were glad for the short day. A quick visit to the Musée de vin du Jura, which mainly consisted of old farming tools and a few dusty barrels, before dinner. We did feel we should sample the unique ten year wine making process of their 15% proof Vin Jaune . We ordered a bottle. It didn’t go down well at all , tasting on the bitter side of a very dry Sherry but it would have been rude not to finish it! After that it was more familiar wines and beers for the remainder of the trip.The hotel had made up double beds rather than twins, fortunately they remedied this, even so Steve B and Duncan competed in the snoring stakes, maybe induced by the Vin Jaune?

DAY 2:Arbois - Nozeroy (Longcochon), 84km, 1332 meter climb

Originally a 70 km day, we started the day with a detour to Cascade des Tufs

The cascade name gave us a clue for this tough Monday ride; as soon as we’d gone up a hill another one arrived but never boring – it was all day in mountains and forests before about 10K from our destination there was a heavy afternoon storm and we arrived at Auberge Loisirs Le Sillet a little soaked and cold. Fortunately we had a rousing welcome from la Madame who soon has us warmed up – we could have signed up for discovering the Jura on horseback as the Auberge was an equestrian centre. A hearty supper of local fayre with some excellent Arbois chardonnay and a game of cards rounded off a great day in the Jura

DAY 3: Longcochon to Malbuisson 71 km, 1035 meter climb (Duncan 1235 meters), including afternoon diversion to Mt D’Or, summit 1464 meters

Because of the previous day’s rain we had to miss a visit to Nozeroy as most of us wanted to avoid a diversion and ensure good legs for today’s afternoon excursion. Duncan diverted to Côte de Bonnevaux while the other three of us relaxed in the nearby French villages. After circumnavigating Lac de St Point we arrived at the 4**** Les Rives Sauvages – such unbelievable luxury we could have brought the wives. After a rapid cafe and cake we accepted the challenge of Mt D’Or. To a greater or lesser extent all four of us had to accept our vulnerability – the preliminary 4km averaged 10% and from the mountain farmhouse the last km averaged 13.5%. But a view east to the Swiss Alps made it all worthwhile. We encountered fell runners up there, and also a students’ geography excursion. But like most days, no English visitors. A brake burning descent to the spa to enjoyed the incidentals – sauna and steam, pool, yoga and doze. Then to dinner in nearby Restaurant Du Fromage for tartiflette, a delicious regional dish. Much discussion on gear ratios over ample grape and grain.

DAY 4: Malbuisson to Bonlieu 68 km, 572 meter climb

The Les Rives Sauvages (The Wild Shore) continued to be the spa that just kept on giving. Daybreak on the lake was shrouded in mysterious waves of mist with birds encircling, and ducks descending. The view from the breakfast room was a feast for the imagination. By 10am the mist had cleared and it was time to head south-west along a Jura ridge.

We today cycled on the top of these ridges through Jura pastures including a flattish stretch of 20 km at around 1000 meters. Hamlets and villages came into and out of view as we made our way seeing goats, ponies and horses in open meadows and ever steepling valleys. A small diversion took us to the ski village of Chaux-Neuve, where 75% of us who were skiing cyclists visualised ambitious ski jumps

We descended to 500 meters and passed the stunning lac de Bonlieu and the Cascades du Hérisson. On arrival in Bonlieu there was an animated discussion of whether we were staying in a one horse or zero horse town as no shop or restaurant existed anymore. But once again the Jura surprised us as we were booked into the EntoutesSaisons , a kind of gîte in the small town. It was magnificently laid out and the owner Patrick showed us his immaculately restored 2CV. Meanwhile Duncan was concerned about the location for the boulangerie and as the town had no shop Patrick suggested a choice of nearby towns – as a detour was required we quizzed which detour was the flattest terrain – he gave Duncan a deep stare, shrugged his shoulders, opened his palms and explained “ici le Jura”. Once you deviate off those ridges into the valleys, the roads get incredibly steep, something we were to find out the next day. To get dinner required a 8km round trip so we fitted lights and cycled out to the nearby Auberge du Hérisson.

DAY 5: Bonlieu to St Claude 55 kms, 817 meter climb

Straight after breakfast started on a 5 km 300 meter climb to the top of Col de la Joux. As we arrived a tad short of breath, we were greeted by the extra ordinary sight of a young couple who had popped up on a heavily loaded mountain bike and cargo bike with a two year old child in it. And we thought our luggage was heavy. We found ourselves in the Parc Naturel, with stunning views on either side, with paths dropping down into steep gorges. These paths proved an irresistible enticement to Duncan to take the scenic valley route to our destination, St.Claude. Rather than riding the Jura ridge we descended 400 meters in 8 kms of twisting gravel road. Hope we don’t have to do this in reverse after enjoying a good lunch by a mill; fortunately it was less than 100 meters or “Diversion Duncan” would have needed to seek forgiveness for his detour. St Claude is the most extraordinary town – built into the valley walls, the former centre of diamond mining and smoking pipe manufacturing felt run down and dependent on tourism. We were checked into a hotel with an excellent restaurant who provided us a category one dinner in a rather splendid room with stunning views up the valley to the mountains all around.

DAY 6: Morning St Claude to Bellegarde, 87 kms, 1644 meter climb including afternoon diversion to Barrage de Genissiat

There was no room for error on departing St Claude: an incorrect route would cost us 100s of meters of unnecessary climb but Steve W sorted the route out of the valley. The cool and early start allowed the 800 meter double chevron 15 km climb to be almost pleasurable. We were back at 1200 meters. This was Mike’s last day as he needed to get to Geneva for a flight back to London for a wedding the following day. So Steve B and Mike put the hammer down to reach Bellegarde by shortly after noon to make Mike’s train connection. We had lunch in the square and after farewells the three of us headed out again to visit the nearby Barrage de Genissiat. For the evening we headed for a Bellegarde Pizziera, a change after nearly a week of rich French cooking

DAY 7: Final ride Bellegarde to Bourg-en-Bresse, 81 kms, 1101 meter climb

Steve W constructed the final route through stunning mountain scenery taking in more gorges, lakes and mountains. The French engineering projects have allowed extensive fast roads and railways to transverse this beautiful remote region but none of these bothered us on our village routes. We reached Bourg-en-Bresse in good time for the return train to Besançon where we enjoyed another Saturday night before picking up the VW Sharan for the return drive to England on Sunday 15 ^th May 2022. Anyone who loves France would love the Jura’s scenic beauty combined with historic interest and distinctive local cuisine and wine. The Jura opened up, so everyday was different. Excellent across the board accommodation and mostly sunny weather. The week was like a SCC “Spring Hilly” weekend ... on steroids. Duncan, who has visited France 5 times with his bike, rated this trip full of excellent contrasts. Two riders used Conti Four Seasons, one Gatorskins and one Swarbe Marathons. The usual excellent roads ensured less than one puncture over 7 days riding. Only 515 kms but plenty of endorphins achieved by over 7000 meters climbing.

Dieppe Raid 2022

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 15:57:08 GMT

The Dieppe Raid 2022

The Cycling Dieppe Raid Tour Des Trois Vallees 24 ^th -27 ^th June 2022

Southgate CC members attended: John and Pat, Ian, Andy, Tat, Bella and Phil and three Steves

FRIDAY

Ten SCCC members signed up for the 50 ^th anniversary of the first Cycling Dieppe Raid. There was a bumper turnout for this event and hundreds of cyclists arrived by various transport modes at Newhaven Ferry. Eight of us made Friday’s morning crossing to a warm welcome and bright sunshine in Dieppe. But when you think you are on easy street there is danger at the door as a tumultuous black cloud rolled off la Manche, gathering force as it hit the land and dropping a wall of rain drops the size of golf balls on top of us while we waited in a long line on the quay for les Douanes. The interminable wait felt like an hour (but was actually only fifteen minutes) and eventually passed and we were officially in France. Fortunately the port was only a short ride from the town. The hotel and apartments (ably organised by John) had great drying facilities and bike storage. Urgently needing refreshment the group convened at the nearby Les Tribunaux, who provided vital sustenance throughout the trip. Among others, the writer came a devotee of Leffe Blonde on this trip. Later we enjoyed the first of three dinners on the nearby Dieppe Quay.

SATURDAY

Bella and Phil, who had been on the previous evening’s crossing, joined us on a bright Saturday morning which gave us a chance to visit the huge Dieppe market with every known culinary delight provided. The Southgate ten then set out for what proved to be a generally cold wet ride along the Avenue Verte for 30 kilometers to Neufchatel-en-Bray, famous for its heart shaped soft cheese. We stopped for lunch at Le Chapeau Rouge in the town square.

After a good lunch, calvados and a following wind we were primed for a fast return to Dieppe along the avenue verte. Much anticipation over dinner for Sunday’s Tour des Trois Vallees ride was cautioned a bit by an extraordinary cloud formation outside the restaurant. Steve Wright’s phrase (new to the southerners in the party) “Bit black over Bill’s mother’s” summed up prospects for Sunday.

SUNDAY

Expecting more rain we were delighted by a bright morning. Pat and John set off late and opted for the 30 km route , and the rest of the group departed at 8am for the 100 km Tour des Trois Vallees from the FFCT HQ at Salle Paul Elvard. Once out of Dieppe our fears of poor weather disappeared and we enjoyed a fine day in the French countryside.

There is something special about cycling in north France in the summer: the immaculate roads that allow confident descents, the rolling hills that you can climb in the top ring, the tidy villages surrounded by arable dairy and orchards, the good climbs, the excellent views. Just all perfect.

We returned to the FFCT HQ and a post ride drink or three at Les Tribs before dinner at a third quayside restaurant.

MONDAY

After cafe and croissants at the quay, 8 of us returned on the 11am ferry. Various prizes were not handed out, but if they had been Bella would have won the videographer award, Ian the fastest pedalling on a downhill section, Andy the late night Bon Viveur award, Tat a special award for sacrificing a trip to the Glastonbury festival to slum it with us, Pat the friendly to the French prize, Phil the most discerning culinary choices and the three Steves would have competed for the slowest puncture repair. Just leaving the Presidential award, as usual, for John. On arrival the group of eight split into 4 groups for the return to London. Tat by car, Ian and Andy by van, three Steves by train from Lewes and Bella and Phil by train from Brighton. Like an episode of Top Gear, it was a close race to get home to north London, the van winning by a few minutes.

Meanwhile, John and Pat stayed on till Tuesday, heading west along the coast to St.Valery. Their lunch was jinxed by a puncture so they survived on a subsistence of bread and cheese. They then visited the 51 ^st Highland memorial at St.Valerie en Caux where upwards of 10,000 troops of the 51 ^st Highland became POWs in 1940.

The original 1972 cycle ride was on the 30 ^th anniversary of the military Dieppe Raid in August 1942 that saw many allied troops, predominantly Canadian, suffer terrible losses in a bold but misguided and unsuccessful attempt to regain Dieppe from the Nazis. Lessons were learnt for the successful D-Day Normandy landings two years later. Amongst the pleasures of a weekend in France 80 years later is a reminder to us today ... enjoy your freedoms while you can.

The SCC Night Ride

Thu, 26 May 2022 10:39:13 GMT

London - Southend - Through the night!

The May, almost full ‘flower’ moon, over-saw the advent of the Southgate Cycling Clubs night ride to Southend. What an incredible experience! Just before midnight,16 riders rocked up at Enfield’s Cafe Nero. Seen off by our chairman John Hepburn, a roll-call and group photo started the night off, followed closely by a solo picture of Costas - was he really there?

We headed out of London via Cheshunt and Hoddeston, with shouts of support and surprise from revellers returning from their night out. The route was swift, mainly flat, or downhill. We moved without incident through familiar roads of Hertfordshire — cruising smoothly through Ware and Much Hadham. As we headed into Essex, the temperature began to drop. By 2am, as the cold numbed our bodies and hands, many of us were regretting our choice of layers. The temperature dropping to a chilling 6 degrees at it’s lowest point.

A brief dismount was necessary at Sawbridgeworth. We narrowly avoided the need to carry our bikes and traipse across a metal railway bridge. A night worker saw the size of the group and momentarily halted work to allow our pass. The chatter became less avid as we approached Chelmsford, determinedly spurred on by visions of the promised 24 hour garage. At one point, Andy J nipped into a closed garage forecourt - mocking us with its dark interior - to inventively utilise the rustling polythene gloves in an attempt to create some insulation for his extremities.

A wrong turn had us circling back in search of the petrol station we all yearned for, and Yaw’s cheers of jubilation were felt within the group as we all pulled into the welcoming light.

17 hot beverages were ordered from the bemused checkout attendant in what can only be imagined as the busiest night shift they had ever experienced; they definitely worked for their money that night! Snacks were passed around and layers added whilst the riders allowed the drinks to thaw their hands and make use of the facilities (ie. a bush round the corner).

Refreshed, the ride continued with a renewed sense of purpose. A slight feeling of deja-vu ensued as we passed certain Chelmsford landmarks for the third time, before finally joining the open road once again. Clear skies afforded us uninterrupted views of the bright moon. Spring scents filled our nostrils as we passed from fields, and through Writtle, into the arched trees of the Swan Wood and onwards, passing through Stock.

As the sun rose to renew our vigour we soaked up the views of Hanningfield reservoir and the stunning Battlesbridge; our peloton advancing towards its destination. The lack of mechanicals prevailed. We rejoined civilisation with the most challenging, but actually quite reasonable climb of the night at Rayleigh. For the sole purpose of generating heat during the colder hours never have so many cyclists bemoaned the lack of inclines so much (most vocally, Ian!).

Approaching 6am, we passed through Hadleigh and marvelled at the controversial Olympic sculpture, a throwback from the 2012 Olympic legacy. Unable to resist a photo opportunity, ride Captain James Leek set about trying to construct a makeshift ‘tripod’ out of his helmet and cycle cap with mixed results.

Onwards, through the picturesque Leigh-on-Sea where low-tide presented us with early morning cockle pickers in the distance, we arrived in Southend with 45 minutes to kill before anywhere was open for the much needed breakfast. The time was spent amusing ourselves by the seafront with banter, picture taking, and a near disastrous shoulder mounting incident as Andreas wobbled precariously on James shoulders. It was a miracle he didn’t end up falling backwards over the sea wall, for a ‘proof we were there’ photo. Meanwhile, Costas managed to obtain his own proof of his presence.

The plan intended for the Utopia Cafe was rapidly amended when it transpired that only coffee was available, switching instead to the decidedly less utopic Wetherspoons. After a skilful negotiation by Mike about the storage of our bikes, we settled down to an array of The Last Posts Full English, Eggs Benedicts’, and more coffee (with a distinct lack of milk). Including the unusual Miners Benedict which, I might add, was not made by minors… Staff present were very tolerant and accommodating of our unexpected onslaught. Nick Tye ‘patiently’ waiting til last.

Refuelled and replenished the group split into trainers and non-‘trainers’. Or should that be trainers and trainees… By this point, the lack of sleep was making all sensible thought and conversation difficult! Seven riders rode back and the rest made their way to the train station.

Special mention should go to Thomas Anthony for his epic Audax effort prior to the night ride, totting up an impressive distance of close to 275 miles - chapeau!! All in all, a fantastically organised event by El Capitan, James. Hats off to you for yet another superbly organised almost annual SCC night ride.

The Season Opening Sportive

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 09:02:25 GMT

Ware's Cambridge - March 2022

The first Sportive of the season is always a nervy affair. How has my training been? How is my bike? Can I remember how to sort mechanicals without my entertaining and mechanically savvy club mates around me?

Whilst a sportive is not a race I defy any rider to not feel that wave of competitiveness and anxiety when they pin on a number and have at timing chip. Naturally you want to do yourself proud, and there are other riders around you so naturally you can’t let them overtake now can you.

My first event this year was the always fun and always windy “Ware’s Cambridge” – a ride I try and use as my season opener to mixed success. A few years back myself and Steve Slater shared a relatively hard day – me struggling through the first 70km, him struggling through the last. Two years ago was more fun, but this year I had more lofty goals – a top 5 finish in times on the long route.

I rolled onto the start line, listened to a quick safety briefing, and then at exactly 7.47am headed out into the Ware countryside. The start is a fun one, straight into a climb up Thundridge hill – so far so good, legs were feeling strong, coffee had hit the spot and I was flying by some of my fellow riders….not for long. Precisely 8km into the ride disaster – a puncture. The very reason for riding my gravel bike was to avoid this nonsense, and why oh why did it have to have its first puncture now. My hopes of a decent finish in ruins, I changed it as fast as I could (and as my clubmates will know this is not fast…..). Tyre back on I began the laborious use of upper body strength to pump it back to full, only to realise further crushing disaster – the inner tube I had swapped had a faulty valve (probably from sitting in my saddle bag for a year or so….).

Finally having a fully working bike again it was back to it – and powered by frustration I pushed hard to find ANY group I possibly could to jump on. This is where I met Atilla. Atilla was riding with a couple of mates, but decided instead he was going to drop them and ride together with me. I say ride together, it was Atilla’s riding world – I was just living in it. His wheel was brilliant – with me only being able to offer support on the rolling climbs – and together we made some real headway, averaging a fun 30km/h. Soon we were almost back on home turf – the only additional drama having been Atilla’s spare tube coming loose and threatening to tie up his back wheel….One big push up the Thundridge climb again and a smooth descent into Ware and we were home. I bought Atilla a victory and thank you beer for his help throughout the day as we waited for his long forgotten friends!

A great ride and one I would thoroughly recommend as a season opener

Ware’s Cambridge

Distance – 126km

Elevation – 1300m

Avg. Speed – 30km/h

Returning to the Velo! Velodrome Session - March 22

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 08:10:38 GMT

Back on the oval!

Midweek in March, location Stratford, our mission if we chose to accept it, was an evening of non-stop action, no this wasn’t a Mission impossible film, but a group of SCC riders at “the Pringle” or to normal folk the Lee valley velo park for an evening of Track cycling.

14 riders headed out onto the oval circuit on what I call “suicide bikes”, no brakes and if you stop pedalling you basically fall off, and that’s before you get to the steep banking!

The evening started with a little bit of tuition from our designated coach, to those new to track cycling, however the more confident riders made their way onto the track for a bit of a warmup, however Chris Bee didn’t need any of this as he had literally brought all of the gear, even some rollers!

Once everyone was sufficiently warmed up and acclimatised to the track, our coach Andy rallied the troops for our first track drill of the evening, and one person in the group asked “how slow can you go without coming off”, this is something that certainly got found out!. Anyway, back to the first drill which involved two groups of seven riders on opposite sides of the tracks and on the coach’s whistle, one rider from the front of each group would sprint and catch up to the back of the other group.

After a short little break, the intrepid riders headed out back onto the track and the dangers of track cycling where quickly made apparent. Franco came down on the banking and Steve westcough was the unlucky soul who was just in the wrong place at the wrong time and got taken out. Franco had some nasty grazes and Steve W had to sadly sit out the rest of the session and left the velo park in a wheelchair, even the track got its very own sticking plaster, luckily however, no broken bones or anything major, which was a relief for everyone.

After the incident on the track there were certainly a few trepidations about heading back out onto the track, but head back out we did for a few more drills. The next drill involved the two groups of riders again but this time a number would be held up by the coach and whatever number be it, 1, 2, 3 etc that many riders would sprint off the front and catch up the other group. This seemingly went quite well, apart from Andy J who seemed to lose the ability to register the difference between 2 and 3.

After a few rounds of this exercise, the group reassembled in the track centre for the final time and were given the final challenge of the night. Each rider would be positioned approximately 15 metres from each other around the track and on the coach’s whistle, would set off however fast or slowly depending on their tactics and would attempt to overtake anyone ahead of them. Basically, as soon as someone from behind you got in front you were out. Sadly, for myself and quite a few others the challenge was all over within a lap and it quickly left 4 riders chasing each other around the track. Andy J, James, Alfie and Chris B “Mr all the Gear”, I knew he brought those rollers for a reason! This duel went on for quite a while, until we were left with Andy J, James and Alfie. James was desperately trying to reel in Andy J, however this left him vulnerable to Alfie who was in full attack mode hunting him down. It was the highlight of the evening as the epic duel seemed to go on for ages but eventually was won by Alfie, who overhauled James but couldn’t get Andy J, who secured top spot by never being overtaken.

That concluded the evening track session at the velo park. Finally a thank you to Andy J for sorting out another excellent evening, roll on the next one!

Barnet to Glasgow - COP 26

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 18:57:27 GMT

A once in a lifetime ride in support of SusTrans

I had ridden 350yds when I had a mechanical. But it wasn’t on my bike; it was in my head. Had I packed a particular map? I stopped, padded my pockets; where was it? Checked my small pack strapped to my back carrier. Couldn’t see it. Went back home, checked again. Yes, it was in the pack after all. So I left for a second time in eight minutes. No question, I was nervous.

I intended to cycle to Glasgow to raise money for Sustrans,( sustainable transport), and arrive in time for the COP 26 climate talks. I would use mainly, but not exclusively, the National Cycle Network routes and work my way north over 9 days with one rest day. I found my way with a general, very general, NCN national map and the relevant pages torn from an old road atlas. I considered a compass and sextant unnecessary.

And so on a still, dry Saturday morning I set out wearing a bright yellow T shirt stating my journey on the back and a plea on the front to Recycle our World. With these words I think my T shirt weighed more than the 4 or 5 kilos strapped to my carrier and the bum bag around my waist. I felt very visible and a little self conscious as I rode towards St Albans to pick up route 6 which would take me to Northampton, my first overnight stop.

I acclimatised both physically and emotionally on that first day and learnt quite a lot. Don’t push it. If 10mph is hard drop down a gear and 8 will do; and if you’re doing 12 or 13mph,then eat your heart out Thomas de Ghent all’s well with the world. The route signs can be scarce and hard to find, especially in urban areas. This I had suspected, and found in Luton. I worked my way through with hunch and clumsy mapping before I was regurgitated onto the lovely Sewell Greenway heading towards Leighton Buzzard. Here I joined the Grand Union towpath which I was to follow to north of Milton Keynes. Beautiful, tranquil, flat, only one way to go with lovely people selling you coffee and cakes from charmingly painted narrow boats. How could anything go wrong? But it did. I followed a sign over the canal and worked my way through streets, thinking I was making progress , and back over anther bridge to find myself going past familiar landmarks. So familiar that I’d only seen them half an hour before. There are many words to describe a person who does this, but I’ll settle on one. Prat. It added about another 5 mls.

Having successfully pierced the force field of the furious A45 to the south of Northampton, I found my hotel. It had seen better days, or maybe I had arrived on its very best day, I didn’t know. But my bike was safe, the bed soft, the shower hot and the shower gel fragrant. It was Saturday night which is alright for fighting but ,with 81mls covered, I slept instead.

The second day dawned bright and sunny. The breakfast was plentiful and I was on my way by 8. Route 6 would take me 14mls to Market Harborough via the Brampton valley way. This is a disused railway line with, in fact, 6mls still used as a heritage line, and it’s a delight. Old trains and signal boxes to cycle by and tunnels, some of golden Autumn trees and others of brick , to cycle through. You couldn’t get a better start for a Sunday ride.

I joined route 64 at Market Harborough which would take me to Newark on Trent. It was not long after this that I stumbled upon the second highlight of the day near the village of Tugby. The Ventoux Café. A place given over entirely to the Tour and everything to go with it – memorabilia, gear ,pictures ,T shirts and ,of course, coffee and food. Some of the great names of cycling are painted on the drive up to the entrance – Beryl Burton, Pantani, Wiggins, Tagholm- they were all there. It is the ultimate cycle ride stop and such a nice place to linger you’d never make it back for Sunday lunch on time. Perhaps it’s wrecked a thousand marriages?

I left the café and continued my journey. The villages of Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire slowly fell behind me. The fine weather continued and the Travel Lodge in Newark beckoned. By 5 I had covered 74 mls, my bike was safely in my room and I was on my way to a Wetherspoons for a pint and supper. A very good day.

For twenty minutes I negotiated the noisy urgency of a 21st century Monday morning rush hour. On and off my bike,

standing stranded on dual carriage way islands awaiting my turn to cross a road that didn’t belong to me, riding along rutted cycle paths next to giant arterial roads indifferent to my presence. The animal of the economy awoken and raring to go. And then I turned onto a thoroughfare of a bygone age and a glorious day began.

The terrain started pretty flat, and then became flatter and seemingly wider, as if worked by some giant rolling pin offering views to distant horizons beneath vast skies. Pylons marched across this landscape carrying energy from power stations mushroom clustered with cooling towers. Entering North Lincolnshire I cycled along roads, fringed by dyke and ditch, arrow straight, as if drawn with ruler and set square. Swop the cooling towers for grain silos and it could have been Kansas.

From a certain angle, caught through a gap in the bushes of a roadside embankment, the Premier Inn, Goole , suggests a hint of bucolic charm. No. I was 125yds from junction 36 of the M62. I slept well and dreamt of cooling towers.

“Hopefully your old man legs don’t give up on you”, written by my daughter on the Sustrans just giving page ,were in my mind as I covered the 29mls to York to spend a relaxing half day with Eloise who is studying there. Having taken a photo of the Drax power station ,especially for Mike, I was in York by 11. I met Eloise on the banks of the Ouse and as I walked towards her to give her a hug she could see both legs were working fine. We had a lovely day. The legs had got me half way.

Reeth was my destination the next day. Once again it was dry and mild as I trended north west along route 65 towards Linton-on -Ouse and Ripon. The going was good but as I climbed a bridge over the east coast main line it was to become marvellous. On the other side of the bridge 3 men waited separately, looking north, each with a camera. Curiosity stopped me. It was the distinctive noise I heard first, and then the distinctive steam and then the very distinctive, unmistakable Flying Scotsman thundered by a sign telling the world Edinburgh was 200mls away. The 3 men had arranged the rendezvous ; but benign fate had the rendezvous collide with me at 60mph. Someone was smiling at me.

It was ironic that , as I headed north towards the climate talks where coal plays the villain in a global drama, I had been moved by ,and taken pictures of ,coal driven technology of the previous two centuries. I mulled it over with tea and bacon roll in Ripon and something similar in Leyburn.

The first high ground, 400metres plus, lies between Leyburn and Reeth. The road also goes through the M.O.D firing ranges of Catterick garrison. So past signs telling of tank driver instruction, to the crack of live fire indicating a different type of practise , I crept up over several false summits . Red flags told me of danger, but also of a following wind. The descent into Swaledale was fast and steep. At the Dales café I stopped once more and here I got my first sponsorship on the road from a couple on a cycling holiday with their son. A great end to a damn good day.

The valley of the river Swale cuts deeply into the Pennines from the east. This would take me through, up and over England’s spine. I hoped it wouldn’t break mine. Leaving the sanctuary of my b and b a sign told me Kirby Stephen was 23mls. I was hoping to reach this Cumbrian outpost for elevenses, or at least lunch. I sincerely hoped it wouldn’t be supper. As I made slow progress west this prettiest of valleys glowered at me from low heavy clouds. I was leaving the comfort of the eastern rain shadow. At Thwaite the road turns abruptly , and very steeply, north towards Keld. Gears and legs prevailed as I passed the Pennine way far below which I’d walked some 37 years before. Passing Ravenseat, of Our Yorkshire Farm fame, the going became easier, especially with the tail wind. I was at 1650 ft. The high point of the ride. The Welcome to Cumbria sign, a little later was anything but .

Words blurred with spray paint and a single walking boot tied, swaying , between the two posts; it was more deep south than deep north. Had it been a cleated cycle shoe I would have turned round. Directly after this the road, like some crude ski jump, drops into Cumbria at 14%. I made Kirby Stephen for elevenses.

With the big hills behind me I felt easier and the ride to Penrith, another 23mls, was uneventful except for the first heavy ,soaking rain and a strange mechanical. Making good ,wet progress I suddenly became aware of a scraping noise around the back wheel. Looking down I saw my back carrier had detached itself from the frame beneath my saddle and swung round , with pack, onto the road. Bizzarre. Loose nuts and that was just me. I shouldered my pack and attached the carrier to the seat post with a bungy cord. 6mls later, and a visit to a DIY shop for screws and it was fixed. The Glendale guest house in Penrith is lovely; the exact opposite of the next days’ weather forecast.

For 6 days I’d been cycling towards this forecast. Every evening an exciting cast of the BBC’s finest weather men and women had told of ‘persistent and, at times, heavy rain in the north west’ . Now, on this seventh day, it was no longer an abstraction, but a dark, soaking reality. I straddled my bike and rode towards Carlisle on route 7

After a few miles I rode through the anonymous village of Skelton. I stopped to snap the village sign for personal posterity. My mother and father had met here during the war while working at the transmitting station which is still there. They married in Penrith in 1946 deep in the days of rationing. Thanks mum and dad. I rode on wishing the rain could be rationed.

Arriving in Carlisle the rain did ration itself and the sun made a brief appearance. I dried out a little, bought something to eat and left the city on the A7. Main roads out of towns might be busy but they’re direct, easy to follow and can save you energy. But, more importantly, they often have portable cafes in laybys. From 12mph I screeched to a halt. Free cake with every order, but only on Fridays. It was Friday. Everything was alright with the world.

As I crossed the M74 near Gretna I saw the Scottish Saltire on the motorway below. A few minutes later I passed Scotland’s First house in Gretna. Here I joined route 74 which follows the old A74 and intertwines with the M74 for the next fifty miles. It was windy and gloomy and becoming more so. The weather was re grouping.

I had thirty odd miles to go as the wind increased and the rain started again. Down to 6mph at times I crawled forward. Expletives from clenched teeth were torn from my mouth and hurled over my shoulders by a wind that didn’t give a shit. A guy on a road bike slowly overtook me and gained fifty yds. and then gained no more. We rode several miles like this, his body bobbing with effort, mine too tired to bob. Was he going to Glasgow, or were we both going to Hell?

As the road turned slowly, very slowly, northwards the wind eased and the rain stopped. My senses, emerging from their bunker, told me it was lighter. Resting in a bus shelter the hills of the southern uplands came into focus, sharp, clear, green. I would make it, and did so. Bathed in low Autumn sunshine, I reached Moffat at 4.15. Eight hours ,bookended by dramatically contrasting weather, had taken me to the base camp for the Glasgow summit. 70mls covered. The next day was a rest day when I would deal with the media clamour.

While the media failed to materialise the rest day weather mocked me. Clear blue skies and a gentle tail wind. I ate , drank and watched a couple of matches in a bar. I certainly did not go for a spin to loosen my legs.

The live report from Glasgow on the BBC news early on the morning of my final day told the story. Grey, grim pouring rain splattered the window behind the reporter. 60mls south, Moffat was no different. Wet immediately and soaked 4 minutes later, with each pedal stroke I muttered, last day, last day.

After 2 mls I noticed my bike wobbled when I free wheeled. Looking down I saw a slightly warped back wheel. Inspection told me I had 2 loose spokes. I had no choice but to carry on. It survived the remaining 63mls but it was worrying.

The wind and rain were an efficient demoralising team. I bought some food. Standing pathetically outside the shop, the imperative of avoiding hypothermia trumped that of satiating my hunger. I rode on, the wind, at times, blowing me sideways and nearly bringing me to a halt.

I came to a service station that served both my route and the parallel M74. I sat inside, cupping a coffee with both hands looking at strange people who were neat, tidy, warm and dry. The weather began to lift and I rode on thinking just how unsustainable heated car seats are.

The wind was behind me now and progress was good, fast even. The wheel was holding out as I passed through, and behind towns. I saw signs for places from the Scottish football results; Hamilton, Motherwell. I was getting there; would I score?

My route met the Glasgow Edinburgh route 11mls from Glasgow. I turned left. The final countdown had begun. This is a great way into the city and with the Clyde to my left I ticked off the miles. The back wheel was pretty lumpy now but it didn’t matter anymore. I could always get off and walk.

Passed Sunday walkers in urban parks I cycled and then I saw the rail bridge across the Clyde into Glasgow central station. Picture taken, I cycled up the hill to the Safestay hostel . ‘ I’ve made it , I’ve bloody made it’ I said to myself.

Chuffed is a good word. It suggests a puffed out chest, a head held higher than normal, a jauntier step. Whether the people of Glasgow saw this, as I wheeled my bike to Evans cycle shop, the next day, I don’t know, but I felt it. Bike mended, I cycled to COP26 and what did I see? Cops, lots of cops, thousands of them lining cordoned off streets with a few people leaning against barriers. It seemed, on this first day, that the city was already fed up with the whole thing.

President Biden’s motorcade went by, all outriders, blue lights and fear. Average MPG of the vehicles 4 or 5. Heavens only knows what it was for the accompanying helicopter.

That evening, in a wonderful pub called ‘the State’ I put a pint and peanuts on a table. I was wearing my T shirt. 5 people next to me asked questions. 2 hours and 2 ‘gift’ pints later the world had been put to rights, including scams and con artists raising money for charities, as they gave me £43 cash for my effort. It was paid into my just giving page that evening. Honest. As they left one of the women turned and said ‘ Now you get a good meal inside you before you go to bed tonight’. I had soloed from London, but it felt good to be mothered.

489mls is a big figure, but it’s irrelevant. It’s the local journeys along our cycleways, greenways, roads and lanes that count. Make the climate right for them and the cadence of progress might turn our way.

Thank you Southgate CC for your support. It was never quite a solo ride with you behind me. Chapeau.

The SCC 2021 Night Ride to Brighton!

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 08:46:24 GMT

Back for more after a year off!

With covid restrictions finally being lifted and having to wait over two years since the last night ride, 11 intrepid riders set off embarking on a night ride from Enfield to Brighton. Leaving Café Nero in Enfield just after midnight to the sound of local revellers. The ride which had been arranged perfectly by James Leek to coincide with the full moon, which ultimately was called the Thunder moon, aptly named judging by the predicted forecast.

Making our way towards central London, we picked up a further 5 riders just outside Alexandra Palace, which took the peloton up to 16. Heading through parks and even a few off-road routes, we eventually made it to Camden Town, where we were greeted with the usual comments from the locals, the highlight being a Taxi driver saying “do you know what time it is? You should be home in bed”.

Passing London Zoo brought back memories of the unknown creature that took out Mr Conway on the last night ride, still can’t be sure what it was. However, everyone passed unscathed, and it wasn’t long before we made our way to Marble Arch, the traditional start point. The customary picture in front of the famous landmark was taken alongside a few friendly locals enjoying their evening and giving us some encouragement. Heading off, it wasn’t long before we were passing the river Thames and making our way out of the hustle and bustle and into the countryside.

Carrying on heading south, the team realised travelling across London is a lot further than you might think and with only a few mishaps so far, one being getting lost down a cul de sac, the team were in good spirits and making steady progress.

Crossing the M25 and heading on through a mix of country roads and a few off-road tracks, a rare sight of the thunder moon was seen which was followed by ominous and sometimes biblical lighting strikes illuminating up the pitch-black sky in the distance.

The forecast predicted heavy rain and thunderstorms in the early hours of Saturday morning, however we didn’t really get any rain until about 5.30am, which didn’t really last longer than about 30 minutes and wasn’t as nearly as bad as predicted.

After several more miles of rolling countryside roads, a few wrong turns, and no Moose to be seen, the team arrived at the main highlight which was Ditchling Beacon or the green wall as some of the riders were calling it. Andy Z encouraging the riders by saying “are we doing this on not” was all the that was needed. It was up to Laurence to lead the team along the road before he went shooting off the front seemingly never to be seen again. The remaining 15 riders gallantly made their way up the twisting and steep turns of the beacon with everyone successfully negotiating the climb and being rewarded with a misty morning view. Laurence, however, was still yet to be seen, had he got lost, was he in the Market diner café already, who knows. As it turns out he had done a large loop in search of more hills and chased the entire team up the beacon.

A fast and fun descent into Brighton followed with people obviously desperate to get to the Market diner, they clearly hadn’t experienced the ordeal of our last visit. The team assembled in front of the pier for a celebratory picture before everyone came to their senses and decided not to go to the Market diner café, a wise decision. 11 of the riders made their way back to the station and enjoyed a bite to eat and drink, however a seagull did take half of Costa’s breakfast.

Tat, Steve B, Chris B, John B and Laurence found a superb little Café and enjoyed a magnificent breakfast, definitely a great improvement on the Market diner café. It was now time to head home and the remaining few boarded the never-ending train, which seemed to have a mile worth of carriages. Reflecting on how uneventful the ride had been, Steve B was amazed that after all those combined miles there were no punctures, this was the kiss of death and the unlucky soul was John Bailey, who got a puncture riding home from Finsbury Park station, sorry John.

Bring on the next night ride and a big thanks to James Leek for organising another successful night ride!

vEveresting - A journey

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:11:29 GMT

It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves......

Its the cycling craze that swept lockdown. A simple but brutal task, accessible to all. One Climb, either virtual or out on the road, repeated enough times to give you the total altitude of Mount Everest. The highest point on earth.

Everesting is something that I have been interested in since last year, it seemed a great challenge when so many goals were cancelled due to Covid-19, but I had not got around to doing anything about it. Virtual Everesting seemed a good place to start as in and around Hertfordshire the hills are not exactly Mont Ventoux, and there was more that could be controlled, and I wouldn't look quite so foolish when I inevitably crashed and burned!

It was almost a spur of the moment decision to have a go at vEveresting - born out of a training plan that has been on going for 14 months with the Dragon ride being cancelled last year and, most importantly, a need to use up days off before the end of the financial year. As such my decision to attempt was made only a week before the "summit date"......

I had not prepped well - a weekend ride with Steve had topped over 100km was not exactly what I had planned but I'm a sucker for Gaddesdon row and the Dunstable Downs. I did make sure that in the weekly shop was Red Bull, flapjacks galore and bread to make some sandwiches that could be eaten whilst on the turbo. The Tuesday night I brought my turbo into the house, set up the speakers, did a power calibration and laid out my kit and gels.

So as the clock hit precisely 6.36am I was off. I had chosen Alpe Du Zwift, thinking that 8.5 ascents didn't actually sound like that many......I was wrong. The first two ascents were okay, a manageable pace and some upbeat music - I felt good! This was Easy! What was all the fuss about?

By the fourth ascent we had trouble. As I hit the 4,000m climbed marker I realised I had been going for circa 6 hours and was not even half way. A mental breakdown followed. On turn 6 of the Alpe I got off, lay on the floor and then ate two rolls and three slices of toast, with my legs up in the air. This is the never zone - you are already deep into the attempt so don't want to stop (really, start all that pain again in a few days - no thanks) but there is also a mental burden of just how far there is to go.

The food however did its job, and I felt much better. A more aggressive eating strategy followed, at times taking in 2 bidons, a banana/bar and 4 gels per ascent to be safe. The next dodgy moment came around 6,500m. Once again mentally and physically the exhaustion is starting to bite, but you are so close...."only 2,400m to climb" - try not to remind yourself that this is just under the height of the Galibier.

When my wife came home I knew I could make it - she sat with me for my 7th ascent and having a bit of human company made all the difference - as well as the thick chocolate milkshake she ordered for me which was waiting in the fridge.

The final two ascents were gruelling but with that giddy feeling that you know its within your power to complete. Some final texts of support from Paul (as well as a very odd image of him attacking some Horlicks) were all I needed, and at just past 9pm I got the notification I had been so waiting for "Achievement Unlocked - Everested - Climbed 29,029ft in one activity"

Would I recommend it? Well for the few days afterwards, no, no I wouldn't. But now looking back you know you have done something which not many have achieved, and thoughts turn to a long day out and having a go in real life........Never again? Maybe.......

The Stats: 213.03km, 8,867m Climbed, 13h 18m Moving Time. 14h 25m Total Time

NEWS: Club AGM

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 11:43:30 GMT

The AGM goes virtual

We will be holding our long-delayed 2019/21 AGM as a Virtual AGM on Zoom on Thursday 6th May 2021 starting at 20:00.

The agenda and joining details will be circulated by 15th April, 21 days before the meeting.

The nature of virtual meetings make it impractical to take additional items of business from the floor during the meeting. If you have any items you want to be discussed on the night then please send them to our Secretary, Mick Lees, at mlees@kingsavenue.co.uk by 8th April 2021.

SCC Virtual Quiz

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 11:19:50 GMT

A virtual club night!

And the winner is....

Forget your Who wants to be a millionaire and your weakest link - the greatest test of wits ever happened Thursday week ago - the Southgate Cycling Club Virtual Quiz (working title).

A superb range of questions from the sublime to the ridiculous had been sent in from the SCC committee and a two hours of zoom power hours lay ahead. The quiz started with an outlay of the rules or a “power play” from our beer drinking quiz master - read them and understand them. A use of the mute button, everyone was informed, would be used with all the aggression of Jackie Weaver.

Rounds such as the grand tours, classics and olympics went down very well but paled into insignificance when set against the behemoth which was John Basell’s Southgate Cycling Club History round. Realising that these were challenging, additional points were thrown around like confetti and Steve Bagland excelled himself by getting three questions right. It was only after the round was over that Mr Basell sheepishly mentioned that he in error believed all members to be in possession of a handbook - prompting the club committee into red faced glances across each other.

As the rounds came and went and the drinks flowed there was a realisation that our third iteration of the zoom meeting was coming to an end. A hasty shout out of points led to an unexpected but very popular winner - Steve “lost in a time trial” Bagland with a commendable 69 points.

A big thank you to all involved and we look forward to doing another social soon.

Back on the roads!

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 14:23:22 GMT

Club Rides Return - 28th June. New Riders welcome!

SCC is back on the roads! After a hiatus of over 3 months due to Covid-19 we are riding as a club again under very careful guidelines:

All rides to meet outside - Training ride outside of Cafe Nero, Enfield - Saturday and Sunday. Touring Ride 9am Sunday in the Market Square, Enfield (opposite side of the road to Cafe Nero).
Rides are restricted to 6 riders per group - although we welcome as many new riders and members as possible, we will make sure that rides are split according to guidelines.
All riders and encouraged to stay well over 2m apart from each other - bear in mind that 2m may not be enough when moving at speed.
Wherever possible let the club know that you are planning to ride and on which day so ride routes and groups can be prepared.

Looking forward to seeing everyone from the 28th June onwards!

The Truth of the Turbo: Episode 2 - Zwift Racing

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 16:03:44 GMT

An SCC insight into Zwift Racing for the first time!

Following on from fantastic Luke's exploration into the emotions of getting to grips with indoor training during the coronavirus pandemic, I found myself attempting my first bunch race on a bike (either real or virtual).

I currently do not have the option to get outdoors for any form of exercise, so had embraced the turbo trainer a few weeks ago. My app of choice this time around is Zwift, I have to say that as I progress in the game, i have been really enjoying it. I think that I made the decision to attempt a race is from watching many Youtube videos from GCN and another racer called Cameron Jeffers. GCN are currently making presenter challenges, some highlights have been the new Simon Richardson 'Si's Isolation Challenge - Four Weeks of Fitness' and Hank's '24 Hour Zwift Epic'. Cameron Jeffers does live race streams and was a controversial figure in the Zwift world last year having been found guilt of Zwift doping and consequently being banned from Zwift racing until last week. Worth looking into the above if you fancy it.

Anyway, on Monday evening after work i decided to commit to a race, I looked on the Zwift events calendar and spotted a Tuesday morning event at 07.30 called the 14.5km Yorkshire Grand Prix Race, i chose to race in Category C of 4 categories - this is based on FTP and weight, Zwift produce simple guides on how to choose category; I also have a smart trainer so power is listed on screen and you can do tests to determine your FTP - something to discuss for a later post. I was confident with my Category C choice, I signed up for the race, added a reminder to my calendar and ensured that I was out of bed for 6.30am, this gave me a bit of time to have the all important shot of espresso, a glass of water and to carry out some pre-race ablutions. Zwift recommends being race ready 15 minutes prior to the start time as you might need to calibrate the turbo trainer but also to warm-up a bit and of course take some selfies in SCC kit. The night before I prepared by going to bed very late (1am), eating cheesecake at 11pm but at least laying out my kit the night before, and changing my Zwift avatar and name to something more official; I was ready.

I reached the Pain Cave at 07.17, the pain cave is a garden shed that has patchy wi-fi and needs to be plugged in to an external socket in the garden; thankfully the internet connection was good today. I turned on Zwift, engaged the turbo trainer, draped the bike in towels, turned on my fan, set my water bottles up and navigated to the start line of the race and began to soft pedal to warm up - it was me and 15 or so riders. After a few minutes of warm-up and WhatApp messages on the SCC chat I had 1 minute to go, now there was a field of 66 riders; the SCC casquette came off and I watched the clock tick down, not knowing what to expect. 5,4,3,2,1.....

Having never raced before I did not expect the ferocity of the other riders at the start line, only 30 seconds in and I was 46th of 66, oh dear. I was immediately at a disadvantage and had to turn one the power - over the next 5km I managed to move up around 20 places and nestled in with a group of around 5 riders - I was already feeling the burn as I was working much harder than I normally would - my Strava analysis shows this clearly. I really wanted to bridge the gap to the riders ahead but the bunch I was with were either savvy or lazy, so I became a foolish domestique for our bunch and took to the front to chase down riders up ahead. At this point I must tell you that the course was rolling and had some short punchy climbs and descents over the relatively short distance. At one of the climbs at around 10km or so I managed to bridge up to a few riders ahead and passed them, this is when I reached my best position of the race; 20th. Unfortunately, the group that was drafting behind me decided to push just over the crest of the hill - i tried my hardest to stay with them and hung on my the skin of my teeth, i was now 29th. For the remainder of the race I was on the rivet, chugging from my bidon at any opportunity - I managed to get to 22nd position with 1km to go, I attacked and only opened a gap of a few metres before the group surged past me once again, back down to 27th position. With 200 metres to the go I wondered if I had anything left in the tank for a sprint, there was one rider ahead of me, I got to 100metres to go and pressed hard on the pedals. Did i have anything left in the tank? Not really! Thankfully after what felt like an age the wattage increased and a passed the rider ahead of me with metres to spare. I finished my first race in 26th place, i was exhausted but had a blast. Thankfully the race organisers transported me to Zwift London where I had a 5km warm-down. I got off the bike in a sweaty mess and thought to myself, not a bad day considering its only 08.30, now time for breakfast.

The truth of the turbo

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 14:12:48 GMT

The real emotions when you are cycling indoors.......

*N.B. We appreciate this is a very uncertain and serious time and are conscious there is a lot more at stake than cycling, this is an attempt to put smiles on peoples faces rather than ignoring the current situation*

So with Corona Virus, social isolation and not going outside thoroughly set in, we at SCC have been exploring the inner depths of emotion through the crucible of turbo training.

This can come in many and varied forms, be it Zwift, the Sufferfest or simply staring aggressively at your wall, but we will guarantee you will have experienced some, if not all, of these emotions at some point in your training.

1. Hope and expectation : This is a great idea! I don’t need to get all those gels and bars ready! I’m not going to have a puncture! I can really structure some great training time. It never rains indoors! Yes you naïve soul, these things are all true, but how quickly are you going to miss sunshine, wind and a bit of a change in scenery. With all the clever apps and smart trainers in the world, you are still in your shed.

2. Confusion : Should I have put a podcast on or gone for music? Do I feel good, or is my resistance too easy? Will an hour on the turbo be worth two hours in the real world? Maybe I should try Zwift? Is that £1000 smart trainer really worth it? Its never quite as simple as it seemed in your Hope and Expectation phase is it, there are still variables, they are just different ones!

3. Boredom : Is it really possible for the second hand of your watch to be moving THAT slowly? I cycled a 3 hour club ride last week and it flew by, what on earth is happening. Please let me off, no-one would know!

4. I NEED more things!: Sweat towel, fan, mat, all the apps, specific shoes, those specific tyres I have heard everyone talk about, post-turbo cake?

5. Pride : Okay that wasn’t so bad. Do you know what, by the end of the session, I am actually immensely proud, I can do this, I may even do it again tomorrow. The thing is there is nowhere to hide on a turbo, no downhills, no sheltering behind anyone who might be feeling great. I know that and I’ve put a great effort in – I could it again tomorrow.

6. Strava angst : Should I put the turbo ride on? It looks amazing but yes it was on a turbo and yes I’ll get those comments but SHUT UP I need something to compare it to. You don’t know me! I was only looking at my heart rate anyway.

We know turbo training is a great option at the moment to stay fit, and physically and mentally healthy so this is a bit of fun. Keep well, keep healthy and see you on Zwift/sufferfest/a shed wall……..

Southgate Tread the Boards!

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 20:52:07 GMT

Put through our paces in the Stratford Velodrome

Southgate tread the boards!

Wednesday night. Midweek. Hump day. An evening to recuperate and ready oneself for the last two days before the weekend.

However if you were one of 15 SCC riders this week you were to be found in funny shoes treading the boards in an iconic London location. No we didn’t make the long awaited club debut of Cats but were instead putting ourselves to the test at the Stratford velodrome.

The evening began calmly enough, with James L leaving most of his belongings trackside, and Luke leaving all of his dignity there. Split into two groups (beginners, and those who not so confidently called themselves experienced) we got used to the track, the lack of brakes and gears and the fact that you can’t stop pedaling.

Midway through the session was where things livened up with our instructor happily told us we would be doing Russian steps. A punishing interval session that definitely lasted about 4 hours (or more accurately about 8 minutes). Having “completed” this we were treated to some superb SCC blue train pacelines, with an added twist of being asked to break in groups off the front. Despite Luke’s fear of the wheel in front of him, and Steve B’s insistence on breaking off the front every single go, whether he was meant to or not, we all fared well at this.

All that followed was some “free riding” to warm down and a realisation that we were exhausted. Big thanks once again to Andy J for organising, look out for SCC track team (and musical) debuting soon!

New Runs List Posted...

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 20:31:11 GMT

Details for Touring Group rides through to Feb 2020 available now.

Just in time, the new runs list has now been posted. Click on 'Runs List' above to see where the Sunday Touring Group will be headed on your next ride...

RideLondon SCC Style

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 19:57:40 GMT

Ride report from a member of the SCC 'blue train'...

Prudential, the Pru, Ride London, London Surrey Classic. Whatever you like to call it, it’s now a well known event on the cycling calendar and one that every cyclist has heard of!

Preparation began weeks in advance, most notable of which was a hasty video sent out on how to do a team time trial - we are nothing if not ambitious at Southgate.

The day began early, far too early, with riders getting up at 4am, ahead of a 5.15 meeting at Turnpike Lane station. Getting to Stratford was easy, but then finding exactly where to start became an exercise in orienteering, and our team were sure they took a wrong turn at narnia. After finding the right place, it was a question of walking and final preparation, Paul M went missing for the better part of the morning, finally emerging from a portaloo and demanding a coffee - at which point there was a general consensus that no one wanted to get in THAT queue and he was shouted down. A long walk and wait then ensued down to the start point, punctuated only by the realisation that James D and Luke have literally nothing in common apart from cycling and really can’t understand why they get on (ABBA vs AC/DC......). Finally, and to the epic sound of “Tequila” our squad rolled out.

The first 20 miles were a vain attempt by James to keep the team in some semblance of a train, which fair to say didn’t work, with one notable interloper jumping into our wheels wearing a BabeStation jersey and an “adult fun site” shorts, Luke also noticed they had a hole in them.....

Soon rolling on to Kingston, Luke took to the front and led through his childhood home town, also trying to ignore the cat calls from his fellow riders for having to have a wee in Richmond Park. Some strong turns on the front, especially from Mick De Gendt in TT mode led to the first categorised climb of the day - Newlands Corner. This provided confusion for our boys as Mick said he wanted to stop to everyone except Adrian, who proceeded to smash past the stop and would not be seen again until Green Park.

The next test of the day was Leith Hill, the steepest and tallest of the days hills, which in some quarters is considered a mountain as it has a tower on top taking it above the 1000ft mark. This unfortunately was a damp squib as some incidents ahead led to riders having to walk the first half, only to be allowed to get back on for the steepest gradients, stiff and out of their rhythm, Chris bemoaning the fact that he has had to stop on so many big climbs in recent outings with Southgate (Laurence and Ditchling Beacon anyone?)

A rather good descent from Leith into Box Hill was next, with the main jeopardy being the brakes of a rather badly cared for tandem scaring James D and Luke silly - who would ride a tandem..... !!

Box Hill had its share of drama as James D and Paul M went down after touching wheels, once again due to an interloper trying to muscle into the blue train. And suddenly it was all down hill! A very fast last 30 miles were in store, Luke made friends with Chorley Cycling Club by sprinting past them and shouting who are Chorley CC, only to be caught and told exactly who they are (great club by the way). A race up Wimbledon Hill between Paul M and Luke was the final bump, before James D in his capacity as ride captain joined the two and promptly split the train with a call of “let’s go for it”. A 38kmh last 10 miles with great team work from Paul M, Luke and James followed and suddenly there was the finish! Our boys crossed arm in arm (almost - damn recumbent bike) and some welcome refreshments on the mall (thanks Roxy and John H) followed a truly fantastic ride. Well done to all the Southgate representatives and especially to James D for some great leadership. What a day....

Tour des Trois Vallees 2019

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 14:57:30 GMT

John and Pat, Andy and Gaye, Ian and Pete headed over to Dieppe for the Tour of Three Valleys. John has attended many times, a couple of us were repeat offenders and two were newcomers. Our 2016 visit was on the day of the EU Referendum result and such was our despair we nearly didn’t return home that time.

This event was started in 1972 by Neville Chanin, widely known for his cycling adventures around the world. The event is in commemoration of the Dieppe Raid in 1942 where Canadian allied troops suffered massive losses. It is organised by the local Cyclo-Club Dieppois, and the British side of things by Caroline Street.

Cyclists of all shapes and sizes attend the event, although arguably not always the most athletic. The Southgate CC contingent did our best to reflect such diversity.

Given the history of the event we wanted to ensure a military style approach to the organisation of the weekend. Sadly we got off to a bad start on Friday morning. Pete and Ian arranged to meet at 4.10am to cycle down to Victoria to catch an early morning train for the ferry from Newhaven. Unfortunately Pete was at New Southgate rail and Ian at Southgate tube. Both riders then independently made a mad dash to Victoria and possibly in record times for anyone laden with rucksacks and panniers.

Friday evening was spent by the harbour, with some of the party having a good workout by eating bowls of very small mussels. A waiter took the liberty of spilling Calvados all over Gaye’s Normandy pie and then setting fire to it, bloody cheek of him. Gaye seemed ok with it though.

On Saturday we had a lovely relaxed ride down the Avenue Verte to Neufchatel en Bray to a wonderful café. It was hot, some local cider was consumed. On the way back it got even hotter. It was so hot if Steve Mosley had been there he might have been tempted to fill up a water bottle. We stopped off to regroup at a “tabac” for beers. It was a rather gritty, rustic but friendly place.

John tried to help a French cyclist who had a mechanical but there was nothing which could be done. The poor chap looked like he had a long walk home. This offer of fostering good international relations (rather than our very brief visit to the tabac) meant we missed the welcoming presentation later in the day.

On Saturday night the French women were playing the USA in the World Cup. We had been in Dieppe before when the national team were playing and knew the locals liked to celebrate a win with a noisy parade. Unfortunately France lost, however this fact was lost on the seagull population who continued to party all night long anyway.

On the Sunday there are audax style rides of various distances from 30k to 140k, with the option to team up with other people. Gaye and John chose the 60k route and got back as early as feasibly possible to sit in a local pub and people watch. Pete and Ian chose the 100k. Ian had not oiled his chain for a couple of years and it became a bit squeaky - progress was delayed by a lengthy refreshment stop to google cycling website Q&A forums to see whether the beautiful local fields of flaxseed could be made into an instant lubricant. Andy chose the 140k and teamed up with a hard man from the west country who might have taken on any of the blokes drinking at the tabac the previous day. Most interesting perhaps was Pat, who chose the shortest distance and teamed up with a Frenchman to become lost en route together, arriving back at the rendezvous pub later than even Andy. John seemed alarmingly unsurprised and unfussed about it.

On the Sunday night there was an eccentric awards ceremony. John summed this up perfectly as Dads Army meets Hi-de-Hi. The Southgate party tried to keep our heads down during this as we had missed the welcoming do the day before. Some of us got through it with the assistance of a little snooze.

It was time to go home on Monday. Ian and Pete got the midday ferry and, once back in Blighty, took part in a Guinness Book of Records attempt to fit the most number of cycles on a three coach train. Everyone else enjoyed the fine weather and a trip along the coast before taking the evening ferry home.

It was a fun weekend. Great company, wonderful food and drink and helped by the weather. The organisation of the overall event is always excellent and John ensured we had good digs. We even all got a nice rucksack for competing.

Around 300 British cyclists took part as well as French, German and even Aussie cyclists. There was quite a bit of interest in the Southgate club shirt – apparently there are some bits of England outside of London where Southgate is only known as the name of the England manager. Good grief!

The Southgate Six

SCC Night ride to Brighton

Sun, 19 May 2019 13:30:23 GMT

Friday 17 May 2019 saw the resurrection of an old club staple - the Night Ride!

11.50pm on a Friday night. Generally your options are being out on the town, or being asleep in bed. However never ones to conform, 14 valiant SCC riders decided that it was the correct time and occasion to go for a cycle to Brighton.

Beautifully arranged by James Leek to coincide with the full moon, a dense cloudy night greeted the team as they took their leave of Caffè Nero at precisely 12.04am. To start with, the group set out to the 'traditional' starting point of SCC's night rides (as taken from Ride Lists from the 1920's), Marble Arch - so great sights were taken in along the way including Ally Pally, Oxford Street and Ian’s rear light - described by Laurence as a collapsed sun! The route was straight and true, so much so that our heroes were accompanied whilst going the wrong way down a one way street in Camden by cries of “I want to run you over” and “Look, MAMILS”.

Heading south, the team quickly realised going across London is a lot further than you might think, but at last they reached Croydon. Only to try and leave Croydon as soon as possible. Crossing the M25, Luke very quickly realised he couldn’t descend competently, definitely couldn’t descend competently in the dark, and had no competence at all in buying lights that actually worked. Luckily Steve S saved the day with a spare, but could not save Luke’s lost jacket which is now adorning a deer somewhere near Gatwick. Many thanks also to Graham for allow a follow of his descending wheel!

They say the night is always darkest just before the dawn, and so came Ian’s darkest hour when he was attacked with violence by a (Moose?) (Elk?) small deer, buckling his rear wheel but never his spirits!

Eventually dawn did arrive and with it the prospect that climber Laurence had been itching for all night - Ditchling Beacon. Nemesis of many and conquered by few (okay all), Laurence knew this was his chance to write himself into the annals of history. Getting into the front group he positioned himself perfectly to launch up the climb...and away he soared, a good 50m before he put his foot through his rear derailleur. Credit where due though - Ian and Andy’s fantastic engineering skills helped see him home - and Laurence probably has the best walking time up the Beacon this year.

A fast and fun descent into Brighton and a great, fulfilling breakfast awaited our team - unfortunately just not at the cafe they actually went to! A calm and sleep filled train journey back and they were ready to face the weekend - or snooze most of it away. Many thanks to James L for organising a unique and to many, new experience.

To finish, it's worth repeating something shared by Steve B after getting back: "There are some things that we do that we remember forever and talk about to friends and family - this was one of those things, even down to the 'fine dining' experience!

Roll on the next SCC NightRider!!

SCC Tourer 'On Tour'

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 21:57:32 GMT

Report on a couple of great 'guest rides' with northern CC's

Sunday 7 April '19 - as a member of one of the oldest clubs in the country I rode out with the Carlisle Reivers, one of the newest (they only became affiliated at the end of 2018). Despite the name they are a friendly bunch with up to four groups out each Sunday. I opted for the 'Blue' ride (notional parameters 30-40 miles, up to 2,000 feet of climbing and an average speed anywhere from 14 to 16mph). When I’ve guest ridden with this group before there have been up to twenty of us but they have obviously got to know me so, once they found out I was joining, most dropped out pleading colds, broken legs and family commitments so it was a brave threesome that set off promptly at 9 o’clock from the Rickerby Park cenotaph.

We headed east into the light wind on what I was told was 'a fairly flat course though there would be a couple of “testy wee banks” to tackle'. As one of the weaker members of the touring group this sounded a little ominous. The good news is that my Garmin only went to auto-pause on one climb, when my speed dropped so low that it thought I’d actually stopped moving! Other than that we moved along nicely and they even let me take a turn on the front occasionally, where I showed an uncanny knack of rolling through just before descents (totally coincidental, I barely know that area, honestly).

After twenty miles of wonderful views over Hadrian’s Wall country we arrived at our refreshment stop at Lanercost Priory. A lovely little restaurant with a splendid array of cakes and very good coffee provided us with a break. I can recommend the Date Slice if you’re passing that way.

Leaving the rest stop we headed north over the Wall into enemy territory for a little cattle rustling - it’s what reivers do, they just can’t help themselves (actually, I may have made that bit up) before looping round to head back to Carlisle with that lovely tailwind helping us along.

All in all a very pleasant ride, 46 miles in the end over mostly gentle rolling countryside with fabulous views and a couple of splendid companions, thanks to Nigel and Clem.

Monday 8 April '19, an altogether different proposition with the Melsonby Bullets. Named after the Black Bull pub from which they ride only to return for some well earned refreshment, the Bullets is a (very) social pub club which caters for all riders of whatever ability.

With a regular Monday evening ride with occasional forays at weekends, the Bullets are an eclectic bunch. There are a couple of elderly gents on their electrics, the odd hybrid rider, and the usual roadies.

The standard plan is that everyone sets off together at a gentle pace up the drag out of the village (it’s not a steep one, mostly only 2-3% but with a couple of ramps at 7% over just under a mile). Once everyone has warmed up, the speed increases slightly but never gets so high that the constant chatter is in any danger. The group then splits with the slower riders peeling off after about 4 miles to do another 3 back with a second peel after 6.5 to give a total of 12, with the remaining “speedy Bullets” pushing on a short way further to finish back at the pub after 16.5.

And so it worked on Monday, 14 riders out in total, 3 taking the first turn off, 4 the second and the remaining seven of us doing the full route including one of the eBullets who must have had his motor on turbo setting up a couple of the hills the pace he was setting. I imagine that’s what it’s like riding behind a Derny.

An excellent, leisurely cycle in the N. Yorks countryside with the proportions just right, an hour and a quarter gentle pedalling on the bike followed by three hours in the Bull.

Stevenage Start of Summertime 160km 2019

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 19:08:04 GMT

Ride Report for 31 March 2019

Stevenage Start of Summertime ride - 2019 -160km

Once more into the breach....(or in this case Stevenage - arguably one and the same?), rode a strong contingent of Southgate CC riders for the Stevenage Start of Summertime Special ride 2019. All assembled realised that an hour had been lost the previous night with the clock change, a fact that especially didn’t escape both Luke and Andy Z who had been out the night before at a 30th birthday and wedding respectively - pre-ride prep perfectly honed! The weather, a day previously having been glorious, sunny and without a breath of wind, had decided that this was not what was to be in store for our riders and a cold, grey and windy morning awaited our 160km riders at 8.30am. This was a particular issue for Andy Z who had decided to attack the days' riding without gloves - fortunately Luke took pity and gave him some spares - Luke having decided it was shorts and T-shirt weather of course!

A steady start pace was welcomed - especially for Jules who had “for boring reasons” had decided to ride to Stevenage from the centre of London, do the ride and then cycle back. These boring reasons would see him do over 200km today, a feat to be applauded. The first stop came 30km in, at a glamorous Bikers cafe off an A-road. This did however give opportunity to discuss how much easier cycling 160km would be if one had an engine.....alas.

The squad made their way to Saffron Walden where it was decided that a bacon sandwich was in order, and some time was taken to get to know our fellow warriors of the road who joined us from North Road CC, Anthony and Nick. Suitably satiated, the weather started to break and the sun emerged, stopping James D in his tracks as he decided now was the time for some off the cuff cabaret/striptease - losing his leg warmers in a way that had the whole club hot under the collar......or so he hoped.

As the halfway mark approached, Luke realised he had absolutely no idea where he was, but that it was Mother’s Day and potentially his dinner was relying on getting back in good time - shooting off the front and never to be seen again! He was allegedly first rider home in the 160km category (stewards inquiry pending).

Our heroes rolled on, now with a prevailing tailwind which made everyone happier (and fitter) and some glorious sweeping roads carried them back toward the 140km mark and the world renowned (we think) cake stop at Braughing, where cream teas, chocolate cake and all manner of treats were on offer to send riders over the line.

So, a long day in the saddle but a first 160km of the year for many and a great way to kick off summertime - where many riding adventures no doubt still await! Thank you to Stevenage CTC for the (usual!) fantastic organisation and route.

Ride Report - Hardriders TT

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 20:06:08 GMT

North Road Hardriders F7/25 TT [24 Feb '19]

It’s the time of year when the early season time trials are on and last weekend it was the turn of the relatively local North Road cc’s ‘race of truth’ run on the F7/25 course. This event is a well-known one with former participants including Wirral icon Chris Boardman and is called the hard riders course because it is usually run on cold days, the exception being 2019 where riders and spectators enjoyed the hottest Sunday in February since records began (the following day Monday, being the hottest February day since records began).

If you’re interested in what really happened, cyclingtimetrials.org.uk do an official race report, but this is my version of events.

Anyway, after a short ride to the event HQ I was nicely warmed up for my start time of 8:34 (2nd off out on the course). At that early time, the low mist was still hanging in the valleys of the descents on of Carbone and Darnicle but had dissipated by the time I was rolling along Cucumber Lane. I felt coming out of the hillier section of the course that I was happy with my performance. I was averaging over 20mph with the faster section of the course to come. This is good for me, so I was happy. I had caught my minute man early on, which also made me happy ( and also meant I was in the lead…. despite this being a time trial and it being about who crosses the line fastest, not first…. nevertheless, I was in the lead, and its technically a bike race, so at this point I’m winning the bike race, right?).

So as I was smugly ascended Berkhampsted Lane enjoying the morning sun whilst struggling for breath, disaster struck! My chain began to skip, I was and looking down there was a small black grass like object. It became clear it was not going to dislodge itself so I pulled up and had a look. It was a small piece of cable tie lodged in the chain. On removing the obstruction, I hopped back on and resumed the climb, but unfortunately the link had splayed and seconds later I was at a standstill on the road with no chain.

So it was an unexpected end to my time trial…. clip clopping up a hill enjoying the morning sun wearing a skin suit and a pointy hat.

As fortune would have, barely a minute had passed from by ride ending when I bumped into James L on his Brompton (yes, I’m suspicious about that timing too, almost like he had something to do with this mechanical issue, that said, I couldn’t see any cable ties on his person so I ruled him out at that stage). So now on the positive side, at least I had someone to express my frustration to as I went to see the marshals and awaited recovery from the heroic John Hepburn and his comfortable Ford Mondeo Estate.

Back at event HQ plenty of SCC riders dropped by for tea, cake and to enjoy the sun on what was an enjoyable morning. It was great to see so many people in our distinctive kit getting out on their bikes in February and socialising.

I’d encourage anyone with an interest to get involved in time trials to pop along to the cyclingtimetrials.org.uk/ website and sign up for one. I’m happy to speak to anyone how has questions about them, but from a broad perspective;

Don’t be put off or concerned about what time you get in relation to others. You are racing yourself and looking for enjoyment and/or improvement over a period of time.
You don’t need a time trial bike, you can ride whatever you want, wear whatever you want.
Don’t feel like you need to be extremely fit before entering. As your racing yourself you can just ride yourself to fitness, and gain more experience of time trials.
Southgate also runs its own events consisting of evening 10’s in the summer. Aside from them in the immediate future there is a 25km club time trial coming up on the 21st April.

Happy Riding

Andy

Ride Report - FPCC RR 17/2/19

Tue, 19 Feb 2019 22:03:16 GMT

Great SCC turnout for Finsbury Park CC's Reliability Ride 2019

A strong contingent of Southgate Cycling club descended upon Potters Bar Cricket Club on Sunday (17/2/19) for the hotly anticipated 19th or maybe 20th (it was the organisers that couldn’t decide!) Finsbury Park Reliability Ride. The weather could not have been more perfect, although the start could have, with a puncture for James D before we had even got to the start line and that following a strong bit of organising from James L who confidently told everyone the ride was last week.

After a powerful starting speech from a stage 4 cancer survivor (and FPCC member) which put our £5 Cancer Research charity entry fee into perspective it was roll out time! For the first 5km the Southgate '17' were together, tourers and trainers alike, and sitting at the back I was very proud of my club's turnout - but even more proud of the pull they were giving me!

The splits came naturally as the tourers and the trainers gradually got into more comfortable formations. An early issue arose as Luke decided to go for a wee in front of not only the whole club but the whole of some other club too. Disaster then struck in the form of an abandon as Nick decided not to try and ride his bike with only 2 of the normal 4 brake pads on his bike - limping home was the sensible option.

As the club rode on in the beautiful Hertfordshire sun there was a real positive feeling that the cold winter might be over! And thus it proved as there was signs of short fingered gloves and even bare arms on display. James L took to the warming weather by changing outfit not once but twice in his own best impression of a diva. Simon at this point decided that enough was enough and went to join a party instead (via a train or two!).

As the ride neared it’s end, Steve M caught the training group as they paused for a puncture and a mudguard moan (Luke’s token mudguard was in fact more of a mud chute into everyone’s face). Paul M, giving his cameo appearance of the year, showed his winter training had paid off by taking his only turn on the front on a long downhill with a tailwind - Allez Paul!

Finishing in little Switzerland was a welcome way to finish the ride said literally no-one, as James L and Luke decided to channel their inner Pantani and go for it up the hills - particularly interesting as Luke had self appointed himself ride leader for the day - leadership skills clearly to be worked on....

As everyone rolled back into Potters Bar 100km later, we were left to reflect on a great ride. A fantastic day for it and a cause which puts it all into perspective. Thank you FPCC - we'll see you next year!

SCC History Page

Sat, 05 Jan 2019 18:40:36 GMT

A page to capture the history of Southgate Cycling Club

Work has started on a page (just one for now!) to showcase some of the long history of Southgate Cycling Club. I'll try to get as many pictures, stories and any other memorabilia (that can be shared on a website) on here as possible, so please email me at southgatecyclingclub@yahoo.co.uk (link at bottom of page) if you have anything related to the history of SCC that you'd like to share on this website. For now, the page is available under the 'Gallery' link on the Menu...

New Club 'WhatsApp' Group

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 21:26:17 GMT

Running late, lost while out on a ride, need to quickly share some info?

As discussed at the AGM on 1 November, the club now has a WhatsApp group available to official members. It's designed to be a quick message board to let others know that you might be running a few minutes late, have gotten lost while out on a club ride or you need to share (or find out) some general info. If club rides need to be cancelled (or get arranged) at short notice this will be the place to get the message out fast!
Joining the WhatsApp group means that you are voluntarily sharing your mobile number, but this will be limited to current and paid up members only.

SCC Hill Climb 2018

southgatecyclingclub@gmail.com (John Bailey) — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 12:56:30 GMT

Perfect weather and excellent turnout for the Club's Hill Climb event this year...

A big field of club riders took part in this year's Southgate CC Hill Climb on a fine morning in Essendon. Verified results are due to be published later and this report will be updated then...

Welcome to the Southgate CC 'Online Gazette'!

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 22:42:28 GMT

Southgate Cycling Club Gazette - Online place for club News, Stories and Results etc...

Welcome to the Southgate Cycling Club Online Gazette ( blog ) - which is currently still in testing . Here we'll be posting news, stories and updates on the the cycling related activities of the club and it's members. If you are a club member and would like to provide an article or news, please email the web editor using the link at the bottom of the page.

25k Time Trial Results

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 21:52:06 GMT

Great weather, some good ride-times and excellent cake to finish it all off!

Excellent turn out for the final club time trial of the year (with the Club Hill Climb still to come on 30 Sept. of course!)