MODS Sat 11 Sept 10

A great turnout on a day that threatened to make everyone a little
damp with new riders Carly and Mal joining Sarah, Lorraine, Jane, Jim,
Neil, Ninja Steve, Chris, Elliott, Ritchie, Rob, Graham and myself for
a spin down through the graveyard then up to no name before climbing
up to Dawn’s log for Jim’s first pee of the day (only mentioned
because he usually doesn’t make it this far).

Up and over the road to the ups and downs where vomit hill claimed
another victim. On to HB then Big View for a photo op after the
youngsters were treated to Jims speedy legwork on the climb back up.
Carly and Ritchie rejoined us and we headed for lunch via the
bridleway and the ridges.
Losing Chris on the way, who was misdirected by a friendly walker down
to Theydon before realising his mistake and making it to the pub just
as the rain started.

Cheesy grins as a spare sausage and onion ‘bap’ was delivered and
devoured by the dieting gannets (you know who you are). Chris left
with brother Phil making our number now 13 (and you know what that
means)

Back along the ridges where Jane had a little tumble and over to
Jack’s Hill down through Indian Summer where Ritchie cleaned the muddy
log ditch at the bottom. Up to Golding’s Hill where the second lower
pond will in future be called ‘Carly’s’ pond, not sure if she was too
hot or just not wet enough from the lunchtime drizzle but a first for
the group as she plunged waist deep into the green duckweed covered
water.

Down under beheading tree to Loughton Brook, up the Gravel climb, past
Loughton Camp and on to HB. Behind the church where Jane managed to
fall off for the second time, across the road and Dave’s descent to
Ollie’s Connaught track which caused a few squeals and some smelly
splashes. A final loop of Pole hill while Jane and Carly headed for
the safety of the SH and Carly could get rid of her wet shorts and
soggy socks. Soon joined by the Rads, Ged and Kath.

Another great day out with a great group who all managed to keep
smiling not least Carly who on her first ride made a great impression
on everyone with her determination and commitment. Well done Carly we
are all very proud of you.

Dave