“East is East and West is West” said Raymond quoting Rudyard Kipling, before asking “but which one is best?”. “Meet at Market Cross 0930, text back if you’re up for it”. As the replies came rolling in there was still no answer to his question until AndyG chipped in with “Well if you’re coming east I’ll meet you at Tickton”. That was enough to sway the balance as Ray went on to outline the route for the day.
“East it is then. Usual route to Farm Shop, Leven, Brandesburton, Dunswell, Beeford, Foston etc” he said. “DUNSWELL!!??” we all thought. Fortunately we all knew he meant Dunnington.
The day dawned feeling like a lovely spring morning, leaving many of us wondering if we’d overdressed. As the we gathered at Market Cross there was an atmosphere of “Cheltenham Races” with two groups of cyclists meeting up in the “paddock”, the “Fillies” of Women on Wheels and the “Colts” from Beverley Knights. When the “appointed” hour arrived, “What time are you leaving?” asked one inquisitive filly followed by “Which way are you going?” “OK Ok we’re going, come on Iain! Pay attention!” “Beasts before Beauty”.
Ten Knights set off towards Weel Bridge along Grovehill Road. Splits in the group soon appeared as some managed to pass the various traffic lights while others got held up. “Regroup at Tickton” we suggested. Just as we were passing the Crown & Anchor we spotted the leading group of “fillies” coming over the Hull bridge. Our “field” was increased at Tickton as we were joined by an additional five Knights. As we mulled around “waiting for the starter” to resume proceedings, the “WOW group” were spotted crossing the road coming toward us. “Come on guys, better get going before those Fillies arrive”.
“And we’re off!” First up was a gentle “canter” along the cycle path to Whitecross roundabout then a “gallop” along the “Leven straight” followed by the “Brandesburton Sprint”. When we turned onto the Catfoss Road there was a call for a “Stewards Inquiry”. “Better call the Farm Shop and book our place” said veteran jockey Raymond. As Matt “did the honours” the rest of the group continued onwards.
The “tail enders” then galloped on to catch the rest of the “field” as they headed for Dunswell…… oops I mean Dunnington. When the “race” reached the “outward turn” at Skipsea Brough the “going” got a little “heavier” as the wind was now in our face. The “field” then continued at a “breeze” along the “back straight” through Beeford then trading the turn to Foston-on-the-Wolds.
When we’d all regrouped at the Driffield road junction the “clerk of the course” decided to split the “field” in two groups. “We’ve only got 20 minutes to make our booking time” cried “Flash”. The first group set off on a “strong gallop” to Wansford and Skerne led mainly by the “in form” Colin while the rest tried valiantly to hang onto his tail.
Following a short break at Cranswick Farm Shop it was time for the “home stretch”. The first section took us along Burnbutts lane and onto Bracken lane where once again we split into two groups. After the mostly “flat racing” it was time to add in a few “jumps” in the form of South Dalton Ramp, Etton ramp and everyones favourite Granny’s Hump. With the final “furlong” in sight the “field” reduced as each rider headed for their own “stable”.