Spordax - 50th Anniversary - What a day!!

Wow what a day!! three events, amazing turn out, loads of laughter and smiles, super cafe stop at Millies, excellent food and drinks laid on at the Fishermans. The weather was very kind to us with lovely blue skies and sunshine. Thanks to everyone for turning up and making this a really special day. Matt and Lisa did a sterling job setting up the flags and signing everyone out and back in for each event (Has anyone checked to see if Ash is still en route to the Fishermans??). The photos in the gallery look fantastic and really show off what a brilliant club we are. The gravel riders set the standard first thing at 7.30 and led the Spordax out in style. As predicted it looked as though it was to be an eventful day. Richard succumbed to two early punctures and sensibly decided to join the 63 miler. Newbie Matt trumped that by having three punctures (welcome to the madness mate!!) and returned with a different group. Some of the Gravellers fuelled very well at Millies (mention no names!!). The extra sausage and bacon cobs helped to ensure their survival. The 80 miler was next up and a very healthy turnout enabled 3 separate groups. Jack's group set a blistering pace and Matts group nipped at their heels on the way out. Millies was a welcome much needed stop to draw breath and an opportunity to tuck in to some fabulous grub. Cats group were not far behind after just managing to avoid a road closure they all arrived smiling and in one piece. The last group to leave the Triangle were the 63 milers. Two groups enjoyed the lovely sunshine, full of energy and vigour but who was missing? As the 9.00 deadline closely approached we looked at the list - then just as the chimes started Paul appeared, riding gracefully out of the gloom on his classy steed - as the 8th chime sounded out he signed in - we were complete and ready for action. As the first group passed Darley Park there was a forlorn shout of "puncture". Which rider could it be who had punctured so early into the ride? Then there were low level mumblings - Oh no! not again. Yep you guessed it - Mark for the second week running. Some riders rode on giggling slightly and also wondering if he had learned from the previous weeks experience. Mark to be fair pulled on his big boy trousers and stepped up to the task and surprisingly fixed it all by himself. The onlookers though had to point out the both sides of the wheel needed to be located in the drop outs when replacing the wheel but hey ho he did well for a first try on his own. Whilst we were waiting we were delighted to see Robs group who were all having great time pass on through. After manoeuvring our way down the Riverside path we headed towards Shardlow. Seemingly in the blink of an eye we arrived at Millies. We were confronted with a lovely sea of red, black and white Belper tops and it was great to have a good craic with everyone. There were also some other lovely tops too (apologies Ilkeston and Derby Mercury). All of our 60 riders made it to Millies and they did a cracking job of looking after us - not an easy task!! After a lovely feed all of the groups made the journey back to the Fishermans. Upon arrival we signed out and quenched our thirsts. Many stories of the day were discussed and lots of friendly banter occurred. The food laid on by the Fishermans went down a storm and everyone tucked in. A large cheer went up when the final group of gravellers arrived back safe and sound. Club water bottles were distributed to everyone. Thank you again to everyone for helping to make this event a success. Ideas for next year please 🙏 🚴‍♂️🍻🫕🍰

PS. Head over to the Gallery to see all photos from the day: https://www.belperbc.co.uk/members-gallery/3b28ffad-a638-403e-9728-977256ec9a93

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