Symondshyde Ride Out
With the seasons being much less predictable these days, it's hard to know what the trails will be like. The recent dry weather led us to believe there was a chance they would be dry and hard so we headed off from the Oval and down the Nickey Line.
Last year was particularly wet so we would not have even attempted the route we were planning. But we were optimistic and the first signs were positive as there was not an ounce of mud as we cycled past Heartwood Forest and down into Sandridge.
We took on a technical loop through a densely wooded area with tight bends, obstacles and overhanging branches and came out unscathed. On we pedalled up the hill past Hammonds Farm and into Symondshyde Wood. This wood is a Pedaller favourite but this time it did manage to serve up some glorious thick mud that some of the Pedallers had to push their bikes through. Having said that, on balance we were more than happy as to be able to cycle through the wood at this time of year is a real bonus.
Back down the hill through Hammonds Farm and onto Nomansland the group cut through a small gap in a hedge and cycled into Southdown. A short uphill trail past Grove School and we were in sight of home. Demo Dave was celebrating a crazily high number of wedding anniversaries so we toasted and all enjoyed a well deserved coffee and cake.
Well done to Mr & Mrs Demo Dave and well done to the Pedallers for getting out and completing the very enjoyable 19 mile ride. Top effort all round!
