A brilliant trip despite having our bikes nicked half way through.

Chester & N Wales Hill Climb & Lunch

Just a few snaps.

Trip based at our favourite Hotel Milano. Mostly pottering -but brilliant rides for all abilities and superb destinations. Also great facilities/excursions for non-cyclists or those wanting a day off the bike.

Just some pics fom the start.

Hearing that Asterton had been dropped in favour of The Burway I was tempted to go for the longer option!

Gearing Down -i.m. Graham Mills (1949-2007)

Driving the lonely road between Gwyddelwern and
Melin-y-Wig I squint and see a rider,
Recognizing the pensive style, unhurried pace and
something in the profile,
I prepare to pull onto the verge and wave him down; ask
him where he’s off this time.
He’s hungry, not just for miles, -wanting rather to feed off
the green lanes, the “dual cabbageways” and secluded
places.

Expecting understatement and a laugh I gear down.
An impish smile, a grin or the flash of eyes to let you
know that all is well.
“Stop off at Lowri’s for a cuppa` -ring Bren’ to let her know
I’m on my way”.
An apparition -
The solitary rider waving; a simple gesture.
Gone in the stroke of a pedal.
How many times have I seen him now?

It heartens me that cyclists seek the green deserted
roads of Rugg and Iâl and Glyndyfydwy.
Glyndwr’s land was his land.
Wind and bad weather his bosom friends -that’s not to say
there wasn’t sunshine aplenty;
And if he was a brigand his sword was kindness.
We all knew that.
Incisive and thoughtful; committee man - a mate!

What style! He seemed to levitate.
If only our touch could be that light.

Back on the bike, I’m gearing down for these hills now.
Knowing that when I gasp my way to crest the hill,
Gasp again in wonder at the vista,
I shall hear a chuckle, a laconic remark,
And maybe in the dusk glimpse
A wirey rider, pedaling over the next -“undulaltion”.

Alun Jones

A bit of a photo essay. Some individual shots may be of dubious quality but I trust they add to the story. Click on the first frame and then select the `slideshow' option if you want to do this.
Yet another quality event through some stunning countryside.

A good fun event - why not join us next year?
The views are inspirational.

Just a few shots from the earlier part of the event. As a novice to 300's I found I had to devote time to pedaling rather than snapping.
An awesome route taking in the best of Mid Wales and the borders. One to aspire to -brilliant.

Work in progress - it would be a help if anybody could identify individual riders & helpers. If so please mail me at alunandanne@tiscali.co.uk