2nd September 2010 - Barbon

To understand this blog I will have to give you a short version of Rads 1st amendment as decreed by Charlie prior to the ride. “I am going to the Mintfest fireworks display for 8:30 so the choice is a prompt start at 6:30 or we will have to hurry round”. This enthusiasm was too much for Joel and had others wondering. 4 (Charlie, Grant, Neil and John) set off up the steep hill on the road to Gawthrop as the hands of the church clock moved onto 6:30. At the right turn onto the unfenced road to Casterton, with Charlie’s intentions having been clearly stated, we waited here for the late starters Paul, George and Jamie to catch up. After a short ride down the road take the short but tricky climb up through Tulpot Wood. George’s radar whilst taking to Jamie missed the overhanging concrete nib and he took a tumble whilst still clipped in. Blood was drawn. At the top follow Fell Foot Rd (green lane) then at the road turn left up the hill towards Bull Pot Farm. About 2/3 up take the bridleway that climbs up towards Brownthwaite Pike. This is another climb with a few awkward bits which had George repeating his earlier trick, but no blood drawn this time. Rest at the gate then it’s around Brownthwaite Pike and a fast descent to Gale Garth. At Bull Pot farm turn left and take the bridleway back down to the Gawthrop road. This is a bit of a bone shaker on a hard tail. 3 crossed Barbon beck at the ford. George and John got wet feet whilst Neil took an early bath! Another who couldn’t get his feet unclipped. I suggest a squirt of WD40 on the pedals prior to the ride saves the blushes. Any other suggestions? Then take the bridleway through Barbondale, no lights necessary because of the prompt start and Charlie cracking the whip all the way round. Then down the Hill Climb to the Church arriving at 8:05. On schedule Charlie headed off to join the queue at Mintfest whilst the rest of us took a leisurely stroll down the road to the Pub. No chips because they like to ‘charge you plenty’. JT. This Thursdays ride is from Elterwater