2nd October 2009 - Barbon

6 turned out for the Barbon hill climb, the day had been sunny, but the sky was clouding over and a chill in the air; I cycled out to get some sort of warm up, worth doing for the climbing of Barbon. When the clouds weren't obscuring it, the moon cast it's light upon us, at least it was not a pitch black sky. We set off for the usual route, up steep tarmac climb, along the road and look for the first left turn for the bridleway, fairly dry and so a good challenge, but still a few dabs. Ride along the flattish track, which was mostly dry and get to the lane to start the climb, we mostly stayed together, chatting about, lights, food and big game hunting! At the next junction, i.e. the start of the next bridleway, CM had set off and some lights were heading up the lan, who could this be, was it Charlie (no never that late!), what about Ian (no he does not have a head mount), so who then...it was a young chap 'Kona' from Kirkby who had beaten his dad to the climb! We set off steady away and met CM at the gate, we re-grouped with the other two fellas, then set off again, only for the young 'Kona' to overtake us in fit of speed. Now another gate and some mud, it was drier than last time, but still muddy up top, so set off down the trail and watch the stream and mud puddles! Now at the lane ready to fly down the descent in some moonlight. The descent was much dryer than last ride and more enjoyable, Grant wanted more water to show him the quickest line (must be mad!). Now over the bridge or through the river, 3 chose the river, some wet feet I think, then blast down the track and back to the cars. Into the pub for a beer, wine and a pudding (JB!), a great evening for a winter ride. Next week its Ings, meet near Watermill for Garburn.