Lancaster and S. Lakes CTC - Ride Report 23 Oct. 2022
/Considering the near-apocalyptic forecast, the turnout for the Cyclists Touring Club Sunday ride in late October was remarkable. The competitive streak in at least some of the riders may have played a part, as it was time for our annual freewheel competition. An attractive trophy and a high-end mug goes to the winner.
Assembling at Halton Station, six riders observed the University rowing club preparing for their water-based activity, in the expectation that our activity was soon likely to be caught up in the forecast deluge.
Our group was quickly dispersed by the series of climbs along the Kirkby Lonsdale road, coming together again on the lane to Aughton to enjoy the views across the Lune Valley to the wind-turbined fells beyond.
We met up with adjudicator Ray at the start of the straight downhill which fizzles out at Straits Head ( assuming that riders make it over the bump at Higher Snab ) . It was Adam who consolidated his position, having also triumphed in the 2021 edition.
As the light rain began, we hastened to Warton for morning coffee at The Old School Brewery. Unsurprisingly, the riders who had done well in the freewheel also shot past the rest on the long and winding road down Sunny Bank. Onto Borwick and safely across the A6, our arrival at the Old School Brewery café coincided with the onset of the heavier showers. The warming qualities of the large log burner were appreciated, and a consensus was reached that we would call it a day and forego an expected wet ride to the lunch stop at Arnside.
As is often the case, the deluge was delayed until late afternoon, to the relief no doubt of the rowers on the Lune at Halton.
Anyone who is interested in joining us can find information about our regular club rides on Thursdays and Sundays on our website: www.ctclancaster.org.uk.
Len Howard