Lewes Wanderers CC Open 30 - Sunday 30th June 2013

Dear Wanderer,

I'd like to invite you to take part in this years LWCC 30, taking place on Sunday 30th June 2013.

Don't forget this is a club championship event also, so there will be specific prizes only for Wanderers & a handicap category. If you want to be eligible for any prizes on HC fill in your entry form correctly. See here how to do it 

An event flyer with all the important information is attached, together with a standard entry form.

Note - for this year entry for women & juniors is FREE (to take advantage of this please post me your entry).

You can also enter online via the CTT website - https://evententry.ctt.org.uk

I look forward to receiving your entry.

Kind regards,

Rob Pelham

Event Secretary

p.s. Please feel free to forward this information to any & all you feel may be interested - Thank you.

p.p.s. If your not racing PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE offer to help - I really need it. Thank you to those who have offered assistance already :o)

Club Run Report - Sunday 26th May

Club Run to Blackstock Farm, Hellingly

Sunday 26th May by Paget Cohen

With Ian away shopping for rare bike parts there was a vacancy for a cat-herd.  Mark L came armed with a plan, I had an idea or two, but nice Martyn was official deputy even if Mr Pelham might have appeared to be in charge to the casual observer.  Our welcome interloper amid 9 Wanderers being Alistair, incredibly on holiday in Hailsham (staying with parents), but more credibly identifying (via our website) an LWCC club run as the best way to spend a sunny morning.

A taste of things to come was Deputy Crawford slipping his chain at Pear Tree Corner; 4 slowed up for him and just about managed to alert the other 5 before they rode off into the distance towards Bentley.  The weather and pace were hot from the off and next it was Mark L's turn to be left behind - losing touch on the climb to the Glyndebourne wind turbine and rejoining after the descent into Glynde.  No sooner had he made contact with the back of the bunch then the chain gang took it as a green light to put the hammer back down on the path alongside the A27 and we split asunder once more.  When Rob then stopped for a P myself, Mark, Stuart K and Alistair figured we may as well carry on to Ripe as he'd soon catch up at the rate he was going.

You can normally rely on the level-crossing at Berwick or at least the Drusillas roundabout to compress or split a group, but we were delayed by neither as we made for Exceat.  We managed to begin the haul to Friston all together, but pretty soon Rob, Herstmonceux John and Alistair took off.  Mickey T and Stuart K 2-upped behind while I found company with Martyn and Simon F.  John Miller (doing a fair impression of a Rover from a distance in his yellow jersey) showed impressive pace on his Kinesis Ti Tripster (see Mark W's Blog report), but the knobbly tyres weren't helping him climb the smooth stuff.  Simon had time to remove his leg-skins before Mark met us chatting opposite the pond.

I began the descent to Jevington near the front, but just as when we rode it in the opposite direction I was dropped before the village and relied on Simon, Mark, John and Alistair to pace me back to the waiting bunch.  As in Berwick we were lucky with the Polegate lights and straight onto the Cuckoo Trail to cross the A27.

It was still too early for tea so rather than traverse Hailsham we turned right onto the Ersham Road.  Passing the Hillier Garden Centre we found ourselves behind one of those golf buggy type things farmers use whereupon Rob took off like a dog after a rabbit in order to grab it's tail, only breaking off the chase when confused by the next junction, where Martyn and I persuaded the fast guys that we ought by now to turn left for Rickney and make for the tea stop.  Try as I might I couldn't stay in the wheel all the way across the levels so sat up to ride at a comfortable pace with Martyn and let the lunatics wait for us when they'd finished playing.  I made one last effort to keep up through Magham Down, but just couldn't follow when the road steepened as we approached Blackstock Farm.

Having found somewhere to park I checked my computer out of interest and found I'd averaged over 20mph for my 52 miles so far - no wonder I was struggling as well as straggling.  Hearing another rider pull up I turned around and found Martyn had turned into Chairman Slow, not that there had been a coup nor snap election, but Chris M had snuck in behind us.  Martyn, Midgo, Graham J and Chris H joined the back of the queue and our crowd retired to the benches out back to enjoy the scenery, sunshine and sustenance - cake plus coffee in a cardboard cup for us Wombles, tomatoes on toast for the non-local.

Once rested and refreshed we returned to the impromptu bicycle showroom out front to make our selections only for Martyn to find his Trek had a front flat and he a ready made excuse for being dropped before.  Lacking a mechanical to blame my performance on I hooked up with Simon and Chris M for an amenable and relatively leisurely loop home, but found I still maintained 18mph for the metric ton.  Pleased to say my legs were up for a 70 miles solo jaunt to Bolney and back the following morning so it must have done me good.

Sunday 26th May Clubrun

Work or racing has stopped me from attending too many club runs recently. However this weekend with the promise of great weather & a rota'd day off had me on the phone to Micky on Saturday evening to see if he was gonna 'do a bit' before the group ride.

A 06:00 alarm had me (nearly) ready for my 06:30 RV with Mr T & we set off into the bright, but still chilly lanes.

Nothing more I can say that Paget won't say a lot more eloquently. Pace did seem a little 'hot' for a clubrun this week - Think we can thank the weather for that :o)

Kinesis Ti Tripster (Demo Prototype)

With the hyper distance London-Edinburgh-London audax on the horizon for a number of our club members I unwittingly found myself helping them find the perfect bike for this event.  It started with me posting a picture of a Kinesis 29er and a Pro 6 on the club forum, a couple of bikes to lust after.

This started some debate and soon I found myself arranging a demo of the Pro 6 for the L-E-L'ers.  The bike was shared around and gained something of a reputation as a cracking bike, that was until Paul managed to blag a demo prototype Kinesis Ti Tripster.  The name suggests that this is a touring bike, worthy of the L-E-L audax, but Paul put some rides in on it and reported it was much more than that, basically a titanium cross bike with all the fixings to do pretty much anything.  “One bike to do it all” he said, impressive from someone that has a bike for every conceivable discipline.  He also said “If you ride it you’ll want to buy it”, I should have listened.

Soon the time came to return the bikes and I had just one evening slot to ride them. It's not often you get the chance to try out a prototype, so I collected them from Steven who reported the Ti bike was every bit as good as Paul was making out.  I had just an hour and a half so I adjusted the saddle and with strict instruction to be back for dinner, headed out.

I packed a camera ready to take some pictures of the bike in its natural environment imagining myself in the role of a bike mag journalist.

The first mile was on road before turning onto the tracks around the South Downs Way and many of my usual cyclo cross routes.  The weather had been overcast all day, but as soon as I hit the dirt the sun came out and I had a great big smile on my face, I suspect only one of these things had anything to do with the bike.

I have never really ridden a titanium bike, well that’s not true, I have ridden one for the sum total of 6 minutes, I’ve always ridden aluminium bikes with the occasional steel bike, so it was fairly exciting to finally get the chance to ride the wonder material for a good period of time.  I don’t usually go in for the latest wonder material BS, and besides, titanium is no longer the wonder material it once was, not with the introduction of that plastic stuff.  A bike is after all just a bike right? 

The outward loop was mostly uphill and the bike just seemed to be urging me to ride faster, it felt that for every ounce of effort I was putting in to the pedals, the bike was matching it.   Maybe there is something about this titanium after all?

Onto the plateau of the South Downs and a bumpy and fast farm track, it felt like I was riding my road bike on the best roads the French could offer, the bike felt alive, stable and comfortable.  Not armchair comfortable but fast comfortable.  I didn't need to be careful in my line choice, just point the bike and pedal.

I noticed I was adjusting my jersey zip across dry and bumpy ruts, something I couldn't do on my usual aluminium cross bike, I usually need 2 hands on the bars to control the bike through these bits.  The Ti Tripster just floated across them. 

Then for the bit I was looking forward to most, I pointed the bike downhill and tested out the disc brakes.

Initially the brakes felt grabby, until I realised that was because I wasn’t used to brakes that work on a cross bike, I soon learned to be gentle on the levers and modulate them, like on a mountain bike rather than just grabbing a handful.   Whilst the brakes were good, when hydraulic sti eventually arrive it is sure to push this bike into a different dimension.

Kinesis cross bikes have been around for years, they know what geometry works and how to spec a bike so it was no surprise that I didn’t need to pay attention to either of these elements, the bike simply performed flawlessly.  I did notice that the wheels felt pretty light when I loaded them in the car, they certainly didn’t complain at the abuse I was dishing out.

With time on my side and the bike repaying my efforts with speed I pushed on and headed for a big climb, I changed into the little ring and with the bike urging me on I made the top in strava troubling time. 

The handling had been faultless, until it was time to turn around and head for home, it just didn’t seem to respond to my command to complete a U turn, or maybe that was just me?  Anything other than steak for dinner and I think I would have continued to Eastbourne and beyond.

I didn't lift off the effort, even finding time for one more loop.  The Garmin told me it was my fastest ever off road ride, my cheek muscles told me I hadn't stopped smiling.   

Talking to Dom when I returned the bike he mentioned the Ti Tripster was never really designed with cyclo cross in mind, but given the production frame will come with even more clearance I think the bikes intentions are clear.

Is it really one bike to do it all?  I dunno, I’ll let you know when mine is delivered.

PS – sorry for lack of pictures, I didn't want to stop riding even for a minute.

Club Run Report - Sunday 19th May

Club Run to Llama Farm, Wych Cross

Sunday 19th may by Paget Cohen

12 degrees C, winds light, cloudy with outside chance of rain or shine.  10 of us assembled outside Boots at 8:30 including Matt from Lewes (brown curly hair, red & black Trek Madone) on his first club ride for a year and Rob P choosing to slum it with the also-rans.  That of course meant quite a high tempo from the off and a tough reintroduction.  The few drops of moisture nice Martyn noted as we departed were just about all we experienced, not that the sun was much more forthcoming.

The first third of the ride followed the exact same route as late last year (see the December 2012 issue 262 of The Wanderer) and passed quickly and without incident.  From setting the pace Rob found himself pipped by yours truly to the prime at the top of Slugwash Lane and promptly hung up his wheels and headed off on foot into the hedgerow never to be seen again;  I'm not sure I want to know what he was doing.

First deviation from last Autumn's route occurred at the top of Plummerden Lane where we headed back towards Horsted Keynes.  After stringing out on the climb we regrouped by Ludwell Spring for some to take a leak.  The second variation came after the climb to Plaw Hatch Lane where, too early for tea, we cut straight across down Grinstead Lane, round Wier Wood Reservoir and up to Deer's Leap.

After waiting at the junction for Carl, who was struggling on the climbs for some reason, we hung a right past Standen and dived down in to the East Grinstead suburbs.  A right turn saw us climbing through a meandering housing estate.  Ian later admitted that even he was lost at this point and I thought he was leading.

For the second time in three days I found myself on a former railway line as we escaped suburbia via the Forest Way.  It's not quite the Strada Bianchi, more like the Strada Arancione, but irrespective of hue I'm not a fan of loose surfaces.  Once in Forest Row Ian spared us the harder climbs in order that we could keep our weekly appointment with Mr Contrary Jeffs heading the opposite way out of Coleman's Hatch.

We almost timed our arrival at the Llama Farm perfectly - just behind Tony G and Chris H, but ahead in the queue of half-a-dozen or so from Redhill CC, and, more importantly, our hungry LEL trainees Messrs Gibbons and Miller.

Unlike November I avoided being shamefully dropped down the A275 and sat comfortably on Stuart K's white-walled rear wheel as we watched Mark L and Ian race to the Chelwood Gate turn.  Carl had left us for Graham's company so 8 of us were left on the roads to Nutley and Down Street;  pausing only briefly for a brake test to avoid two horses.

Either I was now struggling or Hertmonceux John was finally warmed up as I only caught him back in Uckfield thanks to a red light and he plus Simon F left me again on the Bird-in-Eye climb.  I kept the gap to within 100metres through Blackboys, but John went his own way from Sharlands leaving Simon to drag me home.  Shouldn't complain with two 100k rides in 3 days, the second 2 hours quicker than the first.

Pagets Downs Link Ride - 17th May

Works Outing along Downs Link

Friday 17th May by Paget Cohen

I'll admit that strictly speaking it isn't an official works outing;  we aren't representing the firm we work for, let alone promoting it, but once a month myself and some like-minded colleagues like to take a well-earned day off to share our love of cycling.  Normally this entails putting bikes in cars and meeting at a car park somewhere to explore the lanes of Kent or Surrey for a change.

May 2013 saw a slight twist to that theme as we'd agreed to ride the Downs Link from Henfield to Guildford and back.  I'd presumed the path would be much like East Sussex's own Cuckoo Trail, but seeds of doubt were sown when one colleague said he'd bring a change of clothes as it was so muddy last time he rode it.  Still we'd had a dry week so how bad could it be?  I've only got smooth road tyres for my mountain bike anyway so it was the Marin hybrid in the Focus and off to West Sussex.

Four of us met outside the library at 09:30 having just heard on the radio of Wiggo's withdrawal from the Giro.  It should have been 5 of us, but there's always one who goes to the wrong car park.  Thus, later than we'd hoped, we hit the road then shortly the trail.  Immediately my fears were realised as the surface was fine loose gravel and the trail narrow.  Before long we had to stop for a gate into a grassy field with no path beyond a 6inch wide strip of mud worn by previous cyclists.  Thankfully there were only two stretches like this and at least it wasn't wet.

The route as a whole is relatively easy to follow with signage adequate and only a few brief road detours.  Unsurprisingly for a former railway line there is barely a gradient worth mentioning apart from several short inclines down to and up from roads where bridges have been removed.

Or so I thought until we saw ahead an overgrown tunnel entrance with a muddy path peeling steeply away to the left.  One of our number found he couldn't engage the small chain ring on his rarely employed Ridgeback. My over-inflated narrow tyres were too clogged with debris to afford enough traction.  Two didn't have the legs, but one found he had a natural aptitude for the rough stuff and impressively stayed in the saddle to the summit.

One edge the Downs Link has on the Cuckoo Trail is the more varied scenery and odd pieces of industrial archaeology with accompanying information boards.  The Cuckoo Trail though no longer has anywhere so boggy that even mountain bikers have to get off and clamber along the embankment.  On the outskirts of Guildford we encountered yet another fork in the path.  The 2 then in the vanguard went right, I spotted the sign pointing left, but not the strip of wood embedded in the path to retain the gravel surface and endured the lone spill of the day - yet another shin scar to add to the collection.

Our regular road rides are run at a leisurely 13-14mph which isn't usually any problem for me as there's always regular opportunity to stretch my legs, but on such a poor surface with such frequent encounters with dog walkers, joggers and casual cyclists there had barely been a chance to top 15mph so far.  As such with it being so overcast and me having not eaten for 6 hours I was actually shivering with cold by the time we entered Guildford.  Just when I thought it couldn't get worse I realised our notional ride organiser hadn't organised anywhere to get lunch.  Fail to prepare, prepare to fail;  or to put it in cycling terms let the tea stop define the route, not the route the tea stop.

Hence we found ourselves looking for a relatively quiet and inexpensive cafe we all liked the look of in a town we barely knew and on a Friday lunch time.  Just for good measure, one of our number got caught by a red light, two of us noticed and waited and the other two disappeared into the one-way system.  Eventually 1 hour after we arrived in Guildford and with no small thanks to the wonders of the mobile phone we met up outside the station to consume over-priced sarnies, pastries and coffee on the pavement.

I felt much better once fed, but was so fed up before then that there was no way I was going to put up with the slow rumble of the Downs Link all the way back.  I was prepared to find my own way by road solo, but found an ally and, after making use of the path to escape the traffic, we parted ways with the other 3 at Shalford.  Almost immediately we found a lovely quiet country lane and started to make good progress.  The B-road through Wonersh and Rowly was slightly busier, but still relatively smooth and far from hilly.  Once in Cranleigh we were on familiar territory and even the sun was out to brighten the unavoidable stretches along the As 281 and 29.

We rejoined the link to make use of the facilities at Southwater Country Park, but returned to the lanes after West Grinstead station and arrived back at the cars by 5:30 with the off-roaders nowhere to be seen.  Can't say I really enjoyed my semi-off-road experience.  The Marin performed admirably in the circumstances (I did apologise), but a knobbly tired mountain bike with at least front shocks would have been more appropriate as my shoulders and hands took a pounding.  I'd wrongly assumed the slow pace would negate the need to feed whereas I should have overcompensated with extra layers to account for reduced effort;  we live and (ought to) learn.  Chatting today (Monday) with my co-workers who'd become separated from us in Guildford and they'd discovered retrospectively that they'd got within 50 yards of a greasy-spoon before turning the other way.

Press Release 7th & 12th May 2013

A strong Lewes team headed out to Hampshire to compete in the Charlotteville 50 mile time trial based around Bentley.  The course is reputed to be one of the fastest circuits in the South of England and the prospect of this attracted a quality field of 120 riders.  Unfortunately the profile and road surfaces are only two constituent factors in the fast speed equation, the crucial third part, the weather, conspired against the riders, with a stiff wind precluding lightning fast times.

Lewes top gun Nick Dwyer set off strongly and many thought he would fade over the latter part of the course, but Nick battled on superbly against the headwind to gain a fabulous victory in a time of 1:50:29, a wonderful achievement in the conditions.  The ebullient Rob Pelham has definitely rediscovered his old sparkle and had a brilliant ride finishing in an impressive fifth place in a time of 1:52:40.  Duncan Fuller battled around the course to finish bravely in a time of 2:04:03 despite suffering with severe pain in the feet.  Duncan teamed up with Rob and Nick to pull off a great team victory.  Mark Frost completed the Lewes rides with an impressive 2:05:00 time.

The remaining racers on the day headed out to Broadbridge Heath to compete in the Norwood Paragon 25 mile event.  Due to roadworks, the original fast course has been substituted with a tough hilly circuit, which is considerably slower than the original.  A nagging crosswind hindered progress, and most riders agreed that it was a slow day to race.  Brighton Excelsior’s Steve Kane was first man home in 55:08,with Lewes powerhouse Tom Glandfield coming home in seventh position in a time of 57:23.  Other Lewes times were Mark Patton 59:35, Dom Lowden 1:01:08, Alan Lloyd 1:03:05 and Stephen Gaston 1:06:28.

The Lewes evening ten series kicked off last Tuesday in glorious weather, and the welcome sight of the sun coupled with a vastly improved road surface combined in equal measures to ensure fast times were set on the night.  Tom Glandfield set the scene with a 21:36.  If you are interested in riding a time trial, a club evening ten is the ideal testing ground where riders can ride on a “come and try it basis”.  All you need is a bike (any bike will do) and a helmet (compulsory).  Riders need to sign on at East Hoathly Sports ground on a Monday night (excluding Bank Holidays) from 6:00 pm.  Please note that in the early rounds the field is limited to thirty riders due to light considerations, so to guarantee a ride it is advisable to sign on as early as possible.

Press Release 4th & 5th May 2013

The local time trial scene was thrilled to have both a National Champion and a 2012 Olympic Gold medallist competing over the weekend in the SCA 10 and 25 mile events, expertly organised by Mike Anton of the East Grinstead Cycling Club.

Racing kicked off early Saturday morning with a ten mile blast on the fast course near Stenying.  Unseasonal Bank Holiday weather (i.e. warm) set the backdrop for the contest and fast times looked on the cards.  The Lewes Wanderers participants made most of the good conditions and set some blistering times on the day.  Lewes front man Nick Dwyer posted a scintillating 20:42 to finish third overall, a time fast enough to scoop the veteran’s award. Rob Pelham rediscovered his best form to clock an impressive time of 21:13, and these two along with powerhouse Tom Glandfield (21:25) all received winners medals for the fastest team of three.  Some other notable Lewes time worthy of note were, James Ryan 21:58 and Kaye Dwyer 28:07.

The following day was blessed with warmer weather and a noticeable absence of wind; signs were set for a fast day.  Illuminating the start sheet were Olympic superstar Joanna Roswell (Wiggle Honda Pro Cycling) and National 25 mile champion Michael Hutchinson (In-Gear). Both riders had phenomenal rides, with both the women’s and course records being smashed by Joanna (55:38) and Michael (49:31) respectively.  The longstanding course record had remained stubbornly in the archives for many years, having been set by Tour De France stage winner Sean Yates, an indication of the calibre of Michael’s win.

The 25 course starts with a series of nasty climbs along to Partridge Green, following what must be some of the most pot holed and scarred roads in the country.  A faster section on the A24 to Washington replaces the technical stretch of seven miles, before re-joining the ten-mile course for a fast finishing burst of speed.  Nick Dwyer was first Lewes man home, finishing fourth overall and first on Standard in 54:06.  Rob Pelham had a superb outing, posting his fastest time on this course with a splendid time of 54:23.  Rob had an extra incentive of trying to catch Joanna Roswell who started a minute ahead of the Lewes flyer, and he had to fight all of the way to pass the Olympian on the final leg of the course.  Other Lewes times were Pete Morris 55:42, Phil Allen 56:41, Duncan Fuller 58:37, Mark Frost 58:40, Mark Patton 59:32, Sam Ramsey 1:00:37, Alan Lloyd 1:02:05, Michael Turner 1:03:24, Tony Sinnett 1:04:08 (PB) and Stephen Gaston 1:05:22.

Press Release 27th & 28th April 2013

There can be few sports that offer the opportunity for the journeymen sportsman to compete directly with Olympian champions, but that is exactly what happened on Sunday in the Addiscombe 25 mile TT, were Olympic superstar Joanna Roswell, who rides for the impressive Wiggle Honda Women’s Pro Cycling team, happily rubbed shoulders with mortals made from grosser clay at the local open event.  Joanna formed part of the world record breaking, gold medal pursuit team in the London Olympics.

Far from the Olympian drama of the throbbing Velodrome, Joanna found herself encamped at the rather more prosaic setting of the Broadbridge Heath Community Centre car park to prepare for her race.  She happily chatted with fellow competitors after the race, much to the delight of Lewes star Nick Dwyer, who was somewhat star struck himself after speaking to Joanna.  Nick observed that she was a thoroughly down to earth person who was very approachable and friendly.

Joanna reported on her blog that she found the course lumpy but enjoyable, and finished in ninth position in a fast time of 55:57, an unconfirmed Lady’s course record.  

The course is a reserve one and replaced the normal fast Broadbridge Heath route, which has been plagued by on-going roadworks.  The new route is tougher as it has a jag saw profile, making it difficult to maintain a constant pace and rhythm throughout the 25-mile journey.

The Lewes contingent had mixed fortunes, and with a little more luck could have easily scooped the team prize, coming second by a narrow margin.  Nick Dwyer powered his way up the climbs to finish in third position in a fast time of 53:44.  New kid on the block, Phil Allen had a splendid ride, recording an impressive time of 57:.22.  Other Lewes times were Duncan Fuller 58:40, Mark Frost 59:05, Peter Morris 59:45, Alan Lloyd 1:03:21, Neil Midgley 1:03:24 and Michael Valks 1:17:29.

Misfortune struck three of the riders, which made a difficult task even harder!  There was a four-mile trip from the HQ to the starting point and Michael Valks miscalculated his journey time and arrived at the start a minute late.  This incurred him a substantial sixteen minute penalty, hence his rather pedestrian time.  Alan Lloyd had cycled half way to the start before encountering a mechanical problem, forcing him to speed back to the HQ for some hasty repairs.  With time draining away Alan had to sprint the four miles to the start to arrive in the nick of time to make his starting time.  Peter Morris had a different way of making his race longer by going off course to add over a mile to his ride.

Sebastian Ader won the race from a3crg.  Sebastian was also victorious at the Hampshire RC Open ten held on a very fast course near Farnham on the previous day.  Lewes had one representative at this meeting in the form of Neil Midgley, who posted a very impressive time of 22:36.

Press Release 20th & 21st April 2013

Last weekend saw an action packed racing programme for members of the Lewes Wanderers Cycling Club as they lined up for the 10 and 25 mile events run on consecutive days by the East Sussex Cycling Association (ESCA).  Ice on car windscreens in the early chill of Saturday morning indicated that it was not going to be a fast day due to the increased air density coupled with cold, not ideal for such an explosive event.

Lewes premier rider Nick Dwyer made his protestations of lack of form seem somewhat hollow by storming round the course to claim the ESCA title in a time of 21:05.  Nick teamed up with Tom Glandfield (who finished fifth in a time of 22:07) and Rob Pelham (22:33) to claim the team prize.  Dominic Lowden is showing good early season form and his time of 23:49 was fast enough to win the 55-59-age group.  Kaye Dwyer was the first Lewes lady past the post in a time of 29:03.

There was little time for recuperation for many of the Lewes riders as they hauled reluctant aching bodies from their beds to compete in the 25-mile event.  The route starts near Maresfield and traces an out and back course turning at the Boship roundabout.  Conditions were good on the day with little wind to disturb the riders, though early starters had to contend with temperatures hovering around freezing point.  Even though large stretches along the A22 have been resurfaced there are still are a number of deep potholes on the course which is a cause for concern.

First past the post in a fast time of 52:30 was In Gear rider Conal Yates, closely followed by Nick Dwyer in a time of 53:50.  The Lewes lads picked up the team prize, with Nick being joined by Pete Morris (55:15) and Tom Glandfield (55:26).  Dominic Lowden repeated his previous day’s triumphs by winning the 55-59 age group award in a fine time of 59:36, with Kaye Dwyer again being the first Lewes Lady home in a time of 1:12:41.

Those of you that have an historic association with the club might be particularly interested to look on the club’s new standalone Archive website at leweswanderers.co.uk/archive.htm and have a trip down memory lane, compiled as a considerable labour of love by club Chairman, Chris Martin.

Next week sees the Wanderers heading out to the fast Broadbridge Heath course to take part in the Addiscombe 25, which has attracted a large quality field of 120 riders.  Expect some fast times to be posted.

Club Run - 12th May 2013

Club Run to Petals for Plants, Broad Oak

Sunday 12th May by Paget Cohen

It's hard even for me to believe that as late as 7:30 I was literally tossing a coin as to whether I was going to ride or not.  I'd been struggling since Tuesday with a cold/hay fever to the extent that I'd chickened out of my intention to cycle to work as I hadn't felt up to the 17 miles to Eastbourne and back.  As it happened once I was out on the bike I felt great;  answers on a postcard please.

The run to Uckfield wasn't so good as my pursuit of a lone InGear rider was into a stiff breeze that made me think that either me or my tyres were going soft;  at least the council had patched all the holes through Blackboys.  Nobody outside Boots so, as is tradition, I went for a quick spin around the industrial estate.  Upon my return Mark L & Stuart K were in attendance and before long we were joined by Ian McG, nice Martyn, Stuart A, Simon F and Dave Hodgson - 'fresh' from an enjoyable debut in the Evening 10s.

I'd anticipated a hilly ride and so it was;  the quiet lanes skirting Buxted and Hadlow Down were just for starters.  Approaching Five Ashes we just missed  a large group in red, yellow and black who we think were Southborough Wheelers on a similarly lumpy route.  Fir Toll Road safely navigated we crossed the Mayfield bypass and hit the cut-through footpath, or at least Mark did, low-siding at the first hairpin on the damp slimy surface, but with no damage reported.

As the advance guard neared rejoining the road a blur of white and green in the form of Graham Jeffs was reported speeding past and away from Mayfield High Street where we were headed en route to Witherenden.  Glorious views were to be afforded and were consumed as we began the next descent, the tea stop now so close, yet still an hour away.  Anyone not warmed up by now certainly was by the time we reached Stonegate, indeed Dave felt the need to remove his jacket and join us in club colours.

From Stonegate we continued heading East before turning South to cross the A265 at Etchingham.  Up the next climb (Oxenbridge Lane) we found ourselves being tracked by an Indian, not a Native American or even an Asian, but a mounted  Yank of the motorised two-wheeled variety on it's way to some form of gathering judging by the sign at the foot of Fontridge Lane.  Electing not to join them we followed the switchback that is Ludpit Lane to meet the Brightling Road just outside Robertsbridge.  Turning back into the headwind and through the forest we again passed Mr Jeffs heading in the wrong direction, but we pushed on to Brightling.

I think it's fair to say that not only have I now got to grips with my Giant, but I've also found my climbing legs, as while I couldn't quite match Stuart K I was consistently among those unclipping at the summits to wait for the stragglers as the saw-tooth profile of our Audax-like route began to take it's toll on some of our number.  One thing I definitely need to work on though is descending as I had a fair way to claw back to Ian and Simon as we clambered back out of Willingford Lane to Burwash Weald.

At this point we were as close to the tea stop as when I left home, but there was still time for yet 1 more hill as Ian took us back down to Witherenden for the climb of Swife Lane.  I felt good enough to carry on for another hour by the time we reconvened at the main road, but thought best to be sociable and not push my luck so turned left with the gang for Petals for Plants.

Waved to Tony Gale as we crested the last rise then who should we meet turning right into the car park but Mr J once more.  Cafe was pricey, but can't fault the service nor the merchandise.  Bob Evans was the sole latecomer and once cups and plates, if not conversation, were exhausted we hit the relatively flat road home.  Only 47 miles, but an acceptable 15.9mph over such lumpy terrain.

Club Run Report - Sunday 5th May

Club Run to Holywell Tea Chalet, Eastbourne

Sunday 5th May by Paget Cohen

A fresh start with warmth promised meant absolutely no consensus on the clothing front amongst the 10 of us to congregate outside Boots.  Ian McG & I felt the need for full-finger mitts;  Carl M was still sporting tights;  there were no overshoes to be seen, but Stuart K went with an oversock (though that could have been a style thing);  Terry, Mark L and Herstmonceux John opted for sh

ort sleeves, although like Martyn C, Mark & John started with gillets and John teamed his with armskins.  All of which should have made Jan the least conspicuous among us except he was the only one in retro Lewes yellow.  Joining us for the first time was a young lad (whose name I didn't catch) new to road riding, but climbing strongly on his Specialized Allez.

Having narrowly failed to bag a rabbit as we headed out over the A22 we swooped en masse into Isfield where as Martyn bumped across the former level-crossing the peace of the morning was shattered by a sound I would liken to shunting shopping trolleys  He pulled up on the grass opposite, the front tyre wasn't (yet) flat, but bizarrely the valve has sheared clean off at the rim.

With Jan providing roadside assistance we were soon heading South again with a brief deviation from the A26 via Wellingham.  Jan left us at Earwig Corner (another boot fair?) and so 9 of us made for the joys of the Rodmell Road via the Southover cycle path.  Leaving Newhaven Carl missed the train at the last roundabout and was left to solo to Seaford where we soft-pedalled by the beautiful blue sea until he was back in the fold.

The Seven Sisters looked equally glorious in the sunshine, but John & Stuart weren't there for the sightseeing so we splintered and regrouped at Friston.  Terry said goodbye here, but we gained a few non-Wombles for the 2nd ascent of Beachy Head in 3 weeks.  Nice Martyn managed to ship his chain opposite the Belle Tout lighthouse which afforded me the luxury of climbing at my own pace without fear of being the one to keep hungry folks waiting.

Having dropped like a stone to Eastbourne seafront Ian then had to wait at the top of the vertiginous path down to the tea stop as neither Carl nor I were sure where it was.  It certainly is tucked away, but well worth seeking out on such a sunny day.  Suitably refreshed Stuart set about remedying the rear flat he arrived with only to tear the valve head off with his pump.  Never fear Mark L had a CO2 canister to aid inflation of the spare only to suffer premature discharge all over his fingers (*insert punch-line of choice here) and leave Martyn to finish the job with his rather splendid mini track-pump.  Spotting our jerseys a lady who knew Derek Agg came over to share some memories;  unluckily for her prior to the Audax Crew and the TN21 trio swelling our numbers.

I'd been quite prepared to sit in the club run wheels most of the way back, but with Gibbo and Captains Carbon and Slow now in attendance I could be escorted to my door for once.  Having safely delivered Bob Coleman through the cross-town traffic to Sovereign Harbour Gibbo led us back across the levels at a healthy lick - just fast enough to prevent me hitting the front;  Simon at least had his half-marathon of the day before as an excuse, Chris M was working on endurance.

As soon as we started uphill however Paul paid for his wind-breaking and Simon and I found ourselves pulling away.  Our joy was short-lived though as CC hit a big hole in Cowbeech and had to pull up outside the Merry Harrier to fix a pinch puncture.  It seemed only fair as we were using their forecourt to patronise their establishment and sample the beer garden.  Whistles whetted and tube replaced t'was but a short burst (excuse the expression) home.  66 thoroughly enjoyable miles for me at yet another club-run PB of 17.5mph, plus 2 lovely red tan lines where my sleeves didn't meet my gloves.

PS 2 things I forgot to mention & would post on the forum if I could:-

Most of you probably shop at the Tri-Store if anywhere in Eastbourne, but there is now a new 'facility' in the Station Car Park - Black Bikes mainly deal with Hire & Maintenance, but do stock some items for sale. Open Mon-Sat 9-5 except Weds am.

bb@blackbikes.uk.com

Don't quite know what it entails as I've only seen the signs and it's nothing to do with me, but there is a 'Bring & Bike' sale at St Lukes Church, Chiddingstone Causeway (adj Penshurst Station), Kent on Saturday 11th May.   

Entering Time Trials & filling in the CTT entry form.

THESE NOTES CAN BE FOUND ONLINE HERE

Filling in a CTT entry form:

More & more Open Time Trials can now be entered online, which many see as a huge step forward, & is possibly the reason why we are seeing increasing numbers of entrants in open events. However some events will still require you to submit a form. 

It isn’t hard & hopefully this will help you do it?

Entry forms are generally only needed for open events*

Full details for open events can be found in the CTT Handbook http://cyclingtimetrials.org.uk/Shop/tabid/367/Default.aspx. These will help you complete the form.

When you have completed the entry form you need to send it to the organiser together with the entry fee. The cheque should be made payable to the Promoting Club or Association unless it states otherwise.

Entries should be sent so that they arrive before the normal closing date/time for events. This is 18:00hrs on the Tuesday 10 to 13 days prior to the event. 

*an exception to this is the LWCC circuit races (Laughton, Danehill, Earwig & Chailey). These can be entered on the line, just like the evening 10’s but if you would like to be eligible for the awards including the handicap competition you will need to submit a form.

If you need any help or are unsure & would like some clarification on any aspect of completing an entry form & submitting your entry please ask a clubmate or get in touch with me robmpelham@gmail.com & I’ll be happy to help :o)