A great turnout of 18 riders today on what was a cold start but turning into a beautiful day for cycling. We split into 2 main groups, and the climb out of the Derwent Valley at Matlock soon warmed us up. The fresh air was spoilt as our lungs were filled with a cloud of noxious black exhaust fumes from a passing car in Matlock and burning brake fluid from a car on the Curbar descent. All riders regrouped at the cafe and Cat arrived only a few minutes later and Brian a few minutes after having detoured somewhere on the route.
Some of the riders chose to take the direct route home down the A6, some to finish the official route and some climbed up Beeley. We had to slow down for a few minutes near Chatsworth for a large group of horse riders, so we experienced what car drivers must feel like when following us. Those going up Beeley had to scramble over the first barricade but were then rewarded with traffic free riding.
It was great to see Andy and Cat out for their first Saturday ride in ages recovering from injury. Andy riding a simple route to the cafe and Cat following the official route on her own - some of us though she was riding with Andy! Cat returned home, riding with the second group and did amazingly well considering she hasn’t ridden much.
A great day for cycling, but sadly we know these are now numbered as we enter autumn 🍂
It was great to see so many riders out and to have a catch up with you fabulous people. 👌 🚴