Club Run 2/2/08 17 mph

[Ivor]

Well that was fun! My first ever club ride, and first time riding in a group. (In bright orange on the Pinarello).
Bit unnerving at first trying to get used to riding tight and close. Complete opposite to my normal commuting instincts which is to create as much space as possible around me and have enough of a gap in front to avoid surprises.
I think I got the hang of it though and didn't cock it up too badly. Well noone shouted at me or called me rude names so I guess it can't have been too bad.
Out with Graham's 17mph bunch for a very pleasant and leisurely ride. A trifle icy to start (must get some thicker gloves) but soon warmed up a little.
I guess I should probably go with the 18s next time and push myself a little more.

Peeled off at Redhill to head back homewards... and for some unknown reason decided to go flat out back home and now have thoroughly shredded legs.

A truly aggreable morning.

[Snoop Doug]

Nice one Orv. Really pleasled you had a blast.

Sorry to hear a few hit the ice. I avoided it....how?

I'm stuck indoors for a couple of weeks looking after the little 'un so CR not an option currently. So, today @ 06.30 I did a session on the turbo, the coach has come up with a new pain method which I tried first time today....

After that I had a bacon sarnie then went off to do the shopping and after that, Keir and I went to Purley and painted some pottery together (awwww). We pick it up next weekend. Couldn't reisst a quick pit stop @ the Wimpy before home to do the ironing and then watch Porco Rosso (great piece of animé).

Waiting for Mrs Snoop to come home so we can go out for a chinese. Tidy!

Snoop - more turbo tomorrow

[Grahame]

Orv, as I said this morning: Welcome to the club.

The confidence of riding in a group will come very quickly. The key thing is to realise that on a club run, everybody around you is there to look after you, not to get in your way, surprise you, or take you out.

You are a pretty strong rider, but I'd honestly recommend another week or two riding with the 17s to get used to the group dynamics, signals and the route before you step up to the 18s (or beyond). i'll be happy to have you ride in my group any time. It's your choice though.

[Ivor]

ok, thanks Grahame, sounds like good advice.
PS Is it normal to find yourself shouting "car down" when you're cycling back home on your own?