Now that we're into October, I thought it was a great time to reminisce about the summer of cycling and look back on the events and rides we embarked upon this year. The time certainly flies and as much as the midday summer sun can be relentless, you very quickly come to miss its warming glow on gloomy winter mornings. So here's to summer cycling and all our friends who made it an enjoyable season of riding!
Memorial Ride
The first real event was the Jon Mould memorial ride, in honour of one of the local club founders who we sadly lost this year. The opportunity to share stories and reminisce was much appreciated by all, a fitting tribute to somebody who dedicated so much energy to the club over the decades.
We documented the ride with a short vlog posted on our Youtube channel, and despite me dropping the GoPro at one point, I think it turned out alright. It's definitely something we want to explore more next year, and provides some added motivation to sign up for new and interesting routes.
Lincoln Grand Prix
Next was the Lincoln Grand Prix. A can't miss event in the local cycling scene and what a display of dominance from the guys at Saint Piran. Has a team ever locked out the podium before in the race's history?
Don't overlook the women's race too, starting earlier in the day and running until lunch, the action is just as frantic. Katie Scott's video offers a fantastic behind the scenes look.
Overall it's just a fantastic day out. If you've never been I can't recommend it enough. Grab a coffee and watch some of the brightest young stars battle it out up Michaelgate!
Humber Bridge Sportive
Well and truly motivated after watching the racing action, we signed up for the Humber Sportive, which saw us crossing the mammoth suspension bridge to bookend a 100km route. The highlight of this event was the lunch stop, really well stocked despite a 200 strong entry list. The route itself was mostly on roads we're familiar with, which on the one hand was comforting, but I think we're going to consider something further afield next year to
Reliability Ride
The final big ride of the year is back with the local club, tackling the same route as the season opener. I'll remember this one for the relentless pace that was set from the off. The ride isn't a race, but you wouldn't know it!
Graced with unbelievable weather for a September morning, this was one of the hottest rides of the year. Although it has been mostly dry here, we haven't had the warmest summer. Through a lot of July and August I was still wearing a gillet over my jersey. So this late season sun was a welcome surprise.
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An overall fantastic season of riding, obviously interspersed with Sunday group rides, week night recovery sessions and the obligatory product testing/photoshoot outings. Can't wait until next year!