Seven students turned out at Market Cross to learn what grades had been assigned to them. Teacher announced “Right you four ‘young un’s’ , (Mark, Karl, Paul W & Chopper) will be in the A Team. The B grade team (Pug, Stephen & Sharrin) will follow”. No sooner had we set off when we were met with red lights. A voice called out “Hey Pug, didn’t you say you were in the B team” said Paul. Looking round at the “A team” gathered around me “oops” sprung to mind. My excuse was that no-one seemed willing to take the lead, so headed off first to set an example.

The “A team” were so pleased with their “results” they headed out through North Bar while the “B team” saw an opportunity to upgrade their “status” by taking a shortcut along Tiger Lane. As the “B team” pulled up to the York Road junction, we saw the “A team” in the distance, so waited for them to pass before both teams headed over the Westwood to Manor House.

Waiting patiently for us all to arrive was Matty. After discussing the “results” and how it would effect the rest of our day, the “teams” were juggled with Matty joining the “A Team” and Pugwash getting an “upgrade” while Mark was “downgraded” to the “B Team” who were taking the express route directly home without stopping.

The two teams set off towards North Newbald. Despite the adverse wind we made good progress through South Newbald to Hotham. On reaching the Cliffe Road, we formed a “chain gang” as we headed to Market Weighton. An option of a slightly longer route presented itself as we approached North Cliffe but the thrill of the “run in” and the threatened rain showers kept us focused on the more direct route.

When we finally rolled into Market Weighton, I’m sure there were a few sighs of relief that the A* effort was at an end. A more leisurely pace ensued thereafter as we wound our way to Goodmanham and the Fiddle Drill cafe.

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Shortly after placing our orders at the cafe, the B Team arrived. Mark tried hard to convince us they’d taken the longer route but nobody was “taking the bait” 🎣 While we enjoyed our refreshments the B Team continued home. The slightly longer proposed route home via Lund was rejected in favour of our usual return by Holme-on-the-Wolds. With the wind now generally in our favour, we made swift progress before turning south to Dalton, Etton and home.

This was a shorter ride compared to our normal Sunday club runs but was none the less enjoyable. The predicted rain did not materialise (until much later) and we could have taken a longer route but that’s the trouble with computer “predictions”, they tend to use “ah’ll go rhythms”. They have all the right notes but not necessarily in the right order and if the “results” turn out to be “wrong” the “boffins” can the blame “ah’ll go rhythms”.

The “battle” for the Iron Throne has been somewhat quiet recently after an earlier flurry brought in new champions. This has been mainly due to the “protection” put in place on both “battle grounds”. First we had roadworks on Kirk Lane, then later on the main road in Walkington. We also had roadworks pop up on the Ionians both hindering attempts to grab the “crown”.

The current Lady of House Shark since early June, is “Bust’er Gut” Sarah, who rode like Daenerys Targaryen astride her dragon burning up the course and sweeping all aside to grasp the crown and claim the title Queen of the Mountain👑. An impressive effort setting a time of 21:45 to ease into 10th place overall for this year.

With both House Shark “crowns” safely stored in “House Shep” it was inevitable that there would be challenges ahead. In July, we saw Olivier on his “turbo charger” throwing down the gauntlet racing round to victory while setting a new target of 18:38.

Now that Chris had his Shark Tooth crown snatched away, he set off on a quest to grab the “Green Pants” crown. Driven by a fit of pique (or perhaps the WNW’ly wind 😉) he powered his way along the Ionians to set an excellent time of 1:02 with an average speed of 49.9kph. That should take some beating. Chain gang anyone? Heather is currently Leading Lady for the sprint Challenge with a time of 1:26.

The “battle” for Chris’s Hill has seen a number of challenges since the last report, with Chris having to relinquish his “Polkadot Pants” crown, firstly to Chad who set a good time of 4:59 only for it to be “smashed out of the park” just a month later by Olivier, setting a new best time of 4:26. Fresh from his north Yorkshire hill training session, “Windy” James attempted yesterday to knock Olivier from his perch but came up just short. Once again, Heather is still the leading lady for the hill challenge on 5:57.

There is still some time to go this season to stake your claim for any of the “crowns” and the bragging rights. Go on you know you want to!

This Tuesday evening ride was a replacement for our cancelled solstice ride from June. The fact that the pizza was on offer at half price was just coincidence 🍕😉 Eight members turned out to take advantage of “Dishy Rishi’s” largesse.

Before any eagle eyed people say “But there are nine in the picture” the “Sheriff of Nottingham” only came along for the ride (and a pint 🍻). Setting off in two groups, the first group consisted of Mark, Chad, Olivier, Andy & Michael. Following in the second wave was Neil, Heather, Raymond & Pugwash.

Instead of our usual blast to Hornsea and back, we opted for a clockwise route via Wansford. Our table was booked for 8pm and given our 6:30pm start gave us an hour and a half to cover around 40km. No pressure then.

After giving the lead group a few minutes “head start” the second group set off along Molescroft Road to Cherry Burton and Etton. Before approaching South Dalton and the usual run along Mere Lane, “Head straight up to the top” called Neil. On reaching the main road at Holme-on-the-Wolds, Neil instigated another change by heading through Lund before resuming the originally planned route. While passing through Lund, Neil decided to take a “shortcut” between some bollards then through a narrow gap by a poorly parked van. Felt like I was a little kid out on my chopper as we played follow my leader.

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Once back onto the Bracken road, we were enjoying the late evening sunshine and warmth and soon arrived at Wansford. Checking the time, Neil ventured “We’ve only 15 minutes to get to Brandesburton, nice steady chain gang everyone”. Another “time check” at Frodingham “Only 8 minutes now”. Rolling into Brandesburton we heard “1 minute to go now”. Oh the pressure. Not sure I would vouch for the veracity of our “speaking clock” given our timings on Strava.

After parking the bikes, we wandered into Berts to find the lead group just about coming to the end of their first round. “Where have you been?” they cried teasingly “We’ve been here ages! “. Given the speed my first drink went down, I’d say they hadn’t been in too long before we arrived.

Taking our food order, the waiter passed down the line. “I’ll have the pizza with smoked salmon and avocado” said Heather before adding “but I don’t like avocados”. Quick as a flash, the waiter replied “Well why are you ordering it then” before Heather explained to just leave out the avocados. Chorizo and chilli was proving a popular choice until it came to Neil’s turn. Never one to pass up a bargain, “I’ll have the smoked salmon and avocado AND I’ll have Heather’s portion of avocado as well!”

I think we all enjoyed our pizzas and refreshments and the general chitchat but it was soon time for the return home. By this time it was beginning to get quite dark. Good lights and extra layers of clothing required.

While making our way along the cycle path to Tickton, we were dazzled each time a car came heading towards us. Being on the “wrong side” of the road meant that the dipped headlights of the oncoming traffic were virtually pointing directly at us making the path very difficult to see. I for one was glad to get back to street lighting. All in all it was a very pleasant ride in the warmth of a lovely summer’s evening and Grateful for the “Rishi dishies” that we Ate🍕🍟🍻

“Roll-up! Roll-up! Calling all Knights. You are cordially welcome to take part in a jousting tournament at Castle Howard!” Given the nature of today’s route it should have said “Climb-up Roll-down”. Many Knights were obviously up for the challenge as we achieved our best turn out this year.

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Having so many at Market Cross meant we split into four groups. “King Arthur” had preselected the groupings to set off in five minute intervals. The “Sir Lancelot” group consisting of James G, Michael, James M and Matthew P, led the way (you can argue amongst yourselves about who was “Lancelot”)

The “Sir Gawain” group followed promptly five minutes later consisting of Pugwash, Olivier, Paul, Iain & Colin. The “Sir Geraint” group consisted of Karl, Smithy, Chad, Matty & Brian. “King Arthur” led the rearguard action along with Lady Heather, Stephen, Lady Sharrin and Steve G.

The first part of the journey took us along familiar territory through Etton, Holme-on-the-Wolds, Middleton-on-the-Wolds, North Dalton and Huggate. Thereafter, we were treated to some spectacular scenery as we wound our way through Thixendale, Leavening and Barton-Le-Willow. The showers that were forecast fortunately came to naught. As the Sir Gawain group approached Barton Hill, we were held up waiting for a passing train.

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Once across the dual carriageway, we had a brief “lull” before facing the climb up to the Monument to the 7th Earl of Carlisle. “Don’t push too hard too early” warned Sir Iain as we began the ascent. We soon realised what he meant as the terrain continued upwards and onwards. A final few rollercoaster hills and we arrived at the impressive gate leading into the grounds of Castle Howard.

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Once everyone was suitably refuelled, we all set off in our various groups to face the return journey. A swift downhill saw us into Coneysthorpe with a steady climb (plus a few “lumps” thrown in for good measure) for the next couple of miles before a beautiful descent into Malton. I’m glad we had a good navigator on the front as we filtered our way through town to Norton.

Shortly after, we were presented with the “joy” of Settrington Bank with an average gradient of almost 8% and tipping up to 17% in places. The effort involved was really worth it (honest) as the views across the Wolds from the top were stunning. An additional benefit came in the long downward sweep to West Lutton.

Next challenge was the short 5.5% ramp heading towards Cowlam. As the Sir Gawain group waited at Cowlam for Pugwash to catch up, we suffered the ignominy of being “caught” by Chad from the Sir Geraint group. As he waited for the rest of his group, we set off again towards Driffield. Just as we approached Driffield on the descent, we were once more “caught”, this time by Smithy.

After Driffield though, Pugwash found a “second wind” and was able to maintain the pace as Olivier and Paul led the way through Skerne and Hutton Cranswick. Our trusty navigator left the group here while the rest opted to head directly down the main road back home. The Sir Lancelot group also took the “quick” route home while the Sir Geraint and King Arthur’s groups both returned via Bracken.

This was longer than our recent Sunday rides, however given the numbers in attendance it may become more regular as we seek out pastures new. Fabulous scenery, rolling hills and clement weather all helped to produce a wonderful ride experience. Many thanks to James M for suggesting the route.

The “kick-off” for today’s “match” between Beverley Town and Sheffield United was scheduled for 0930. The “home” team assembled at Market Cross while the “away” team gathered at the Dog & Duck in Walkington.

As the home team made their way to the “pitch” a loud squeal of delight derision sounded from the “crowd”…. Oh, wait a minute, it’s only Paul arriving with his new “early warning system!” Who needs a bell eh? 🔔😂 0930 on the dot the “referee” blew the whistle. What’s that? We’re one man down. Perhaps Michael 🛌 is now “batting for the other side” . However, time and tide wait for no man according to rule #87….. and Neil! Just as we shuffled the ball forward we were met immediately with a stubborn “red” defence 🚦before we could get into our stride.

A “long ball” forward and the chase was on as Mark led the home team up the Westwood to Manor House before a “cross ball” had us in “United” territory at Walkington. Soon after, we were faced with some stiff opposition with both head wind 🌬️ and ground slope ⛰️ against us as we made our way up Bluestone Bottoms, this time led by Chad. Part way up, Smithy stopped to recover….. something fallen from his pocket, at least that was his excuse! 😉

Once at the top of Comberdale, the “home” team hit top gear as we swooped down to South Cave. Turning into Ellerker Lane, the “away” team headed down Common Road to Broomfleet while the “home” team took to the slightly shorter left flank on Norfolk Bank Lane. Just as we were running alongside the Market Weighton canal, Paul was “hit” by a “dirty tackle (aka pothole)” causing a pinch puncture to his rear end!

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Meanwhile, the “away” team went “off-piste” taking the gravel track from Broomfleet to Faxfleet, much to the chagrin of some of the “players”. Funny that, I always thought “off-piste” was something you did after leaving the pub! 😂

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At Faxfleet, both teams were back on the same “pitch” and with no shelter from hedgerows, facing the full blast of head wind. The “home” team worked well together as each took a turn on the front to keep the pace “high”. Through Blacktoft, Yokefleet and Laxton both teams battled their way forward until reaching Skelton where a slight relief came as the head wind turned to a cross wind, lasting till the “half time” whistle at Howden.

Arriving at the “dressing room”, we found the away team already ensconced on the “benches” including “sleepy head” Michael who’d made his own way there. Settling down to my bacon sarnie and coffee, I made the mistake of taking the lid off my “americano” only to find out it was actually a “flat white”. Yuk yuk yuk.

Neither team wanted “extra time” so we decided the return leg would take us through Eastrington and Sandholme to Newport. Buoyed by the now following wind, the pace of the game picked up smartly. At North Cave we turned into the Hotham estate for a more leisurely jaunt. On reaching South Newbald it was decision time, to Trundle or not to Trundle. The lead players took the initiative and headed for the high ground while the rest tagged along reluctantly.

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Following a brief regrouping stop at High Hunsley, we set off downwards to Walkington. As the final whistle blew, everyone pealed off to their own “locker room” for a well earned bath. The final score will always be open to debate, but I’m sure we all had a wonderful day in the saddle.

Twelve disciples gathered at Manor House ready for a “hilly Billy” ride to Millington. Raymond suggested the route to Nunburnholme village where we would then decide which cafe to head for. Two groups set off through Cherry Burton to Etton. Chad, showing impressive “form”, soon took up the pace setting, holding the same position at the front all the way to Goodmanham and Market Weighton.

On reaching the Londesborough roundabout, we stopped briefly as memories of Raymond’s route instructions were somewhat patchy for some of the group. Assured by the captain, we continued towards Londesborough and Intake Hill.

“Take the second left at Londesborough” said Raymond at the briefing. We all knew what he meant but as the “top” of Intake Hill is a T-junction (although the road markings are not exactly clear) leading onto the Shiptonthorpe road, for all the pedants out there, it is a “right” turn then first left onto the Burnby road. Regardless of which direction, the route master is always “right”. Next up was a chance to recover as we headed downhill into Burnby.

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Making our way on Long Hill Road, we came upon a farm vehicle taking up the whole road. With no way to pass, we settled in behind and followed it until reaching Nunburnholme where we stopped to await the “second coming”.

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When they arrived, Barry left the group to head for an “early bath” while the rest, having decided on the Ramblers Rest at Millington for our cafe stop, continued towards Kilnwick Percy covering a few more “lumpy” bits before reaching the cafe.

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The return journey took us from Millington up to Huggate. Shortly after the junction to North Dalton, Captain & t’Neil stopped to wait for Raymond & Seadog to catch up. While waiting, we were approached by a lady looking for advice on various directions to Malton. While chatting to her, the other pair passed leaving the two of us to play catch up, finally regrouping at Middleton-on-the-Wolds.

The final leg of the return took us through Holme-on-the-Wolds to Etton and Cherry Burton. While waiting at the side of the road, we witnessed a contretemp between two cars. The southbound car went to overtake some parked cars but then came face to face with a belligerent driver in the opposite direction who point blank refused to cede way. Meantime two other vehicles turned up to add to the mayhem. Once the cars had extricated themselves, we continued our way home and the end of another superb ride with something for everyone.

Sunshine encourages flowers to come out in bloom, so it seems it may also apply to Beverley Knights. Light winds, sunshine and not too hot, perfect for cycling, brought many Knights out for today’s ride to Millington.

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Michael suggested today’s route. Perhaps his middle name is “Torquemada” as I’m sure he intended to include both Nunburnholme and Trundlegate climbs. Nine Knights, including one “newbie” set off in two groups from Market Cross to meet up with four others at Manor House.

Once everyone was ready and the route agreed, separate groups headed along familiar roads towards Etton and up to Holme-on-the-Wolds. The clement weather had obviously encouraged many other cyclists out onto the roads, judging by the numerous groups we encountered along the way.

From Middleton-on-the-Wolds, we started the long slog up to Huggate passing through North Dalton. As the “lead” group stopped briefly at the Wetwang junction, the following group caught up prompting the “lead” to set off once more.

The run down Millington Dale was wonderful until we met a car heading in the opposite direction trying to overtake two cyclists on a blind corner. Luckily he stopped before the first of our group passed but was about to make another attempt until realising there were a few more cyclists behind.

A little further along, we came upon another car and Olivier decided this time to pull over to the side to let it pass, however just at the same moment the car pulled over into a passing place allowing the rest of the group to continue. Unfortunately for Olivier, as he unclipped ready to put his foot down, he found himself too close to edge of the bank and took a tumble into the field. Mark, having witnessed the “acrobatics” fell into hysterics. Fortunately no damage done.

Our arrival at the Ramblers Rest was quite timely as we occupied the few remaining tables while many other passing cyclists stopped but on seeing the “mob” decided to look for an alternative cafe. Grumpy Granny next door seemed to get a “bee in her bonnet”, coming out of her house to forcibly remove some bicycles that were innocuously leaning against her garage wall.

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The thought of Nunburnholme Hill was a bit off-putting for some so Mark proposed a change to our return route to provide some flatter terrain. Heading away from Millington, the various groups set off towards Pocklington. I was glad James seemed to know the way through town, as he led our group flawlessly to Allerthorpe. After that it was back to familiar roads as we made our way through Bielby, Everingham and Harswell eventually arriving on the Cliffe Road.

Our “enjoyment” of the flat roads came to an abrupt end as we turned onto Common Hill with a shout from behind “Engage low gear Now!” Once through Hotham, we soon arrived at South Newbald where our group stopped to debate the merits of heading up Trundlegate. On reflection, we plumped for the “easy” hill out of North Newbald and home to Beverley. Another superb ride with something for everyone.

Three men of the club, and who do you think were there, the butcher, the baker the candlestick maker, all of them hoping it’s fair.

Seems like many others were put off by the gloomy forecast, unlike the butcher and baker who put their faith in the candle maker’s prediction of a weather window till after lunch.

The original plan was to head for the Ginger Cow but the consensus was to remain closer to home in case “rain stopped play” (obviously not fully trusting of the candle maker’s ability). I suppose it is the fickleness of the British weather we’re talking about.

After opting for the Fiddle Drill as of cafe of choice, “butcher” Raymond outlined a route which was quickly adopted. Setting off from Manor House with Raymond leading the way, we made our way to Newbald. The road surface was still damp from the early morning rain but at least the wind was not as strong as recent days.

The steady climb along Walkington Heads road was enough to get us all warmed up while the descent into Newbald provided the first “excitement” although tempered by dodging puddles and potholes along the way. From Newbald, we continued southwest to Hotham and eventually onto the Cliffe Road.

Raymond took the opportunity to show off his “racing credentials” by taking the lead as our “train” headed north. “Baker” Russell, was next on the front followed by “Candlestick Maker” Pugwash. On reaching North Cliffe, we pulled over briefly while Raymond “outlined” the correct procedure for our chain gang to operate. Unfortunately we did not have sufficient time to practice this before we turned off onto the Sancton Road and besides it was a social ride.

Making our way along Houghton Lane, we came upon a number of youngsters from the nearby forest school. The cheery waves and greetings we received as we passed made it feel like we were on the “Tour-De-Yorkshire”.

At Sancton, it was time for our first test as we headed up Beverley Lane starting with a 5.6% ramp and continuing upwards for almost two miles. Our “reward” for this effort came at High Gardham as we started the descent on Kiplingcotes Lane. At the bottom, we headed west once more along Spring Road before turning upwards on the short sharp 8-10% ramp up to Goodmanham.

On leaving the cafe we were greeted with some lovely sunshine and the warmth that came with it. Now feeling vindicated for our decision to “head out” we set off in good spirits along Cross Gates towards the Middleton Road. On the way to Holme-on-the-Wolds, Russell pointed out a “rather black looking cloud” ahead in the distance. Reassured by Pugwash that it would be moving eastwards away from us, we completed our return journey through South Dalton, Etton and Cherry Burton without getting wet.

On reaching home, we had no sooner stepped into the house, when the sound of thunder rattled around the skies followed closely by a huge downpour of almost tropical proportions 🌩️🌦️. Guess the bike cleaning will just have to wait!