Steen's favourite cafe in Otley has been sold.... and while the new owners are yet to arrive, the old ones were in no rush to serve us - it was a long cafe break!
Special mention in dispatches this week must be of Mike. He battles like a terrier! Never gives up and never complains. Chapeau!
Today was about 75 miles Square to Square, home about 3pm. I'm trying to keep it like this for the next few weeks (southern Wolds next).
Looking ahead to December though, a few riders have been asking about a Sunday Riders Xmas Dinner again. We've been going to Scarborough the last few years and I see no reason to change a winning formula this year. 14th December. It's quite a tough ride and we'll finish in the dark....
And lastly there's the Winter Solstice Tan Hill ride. 21st December. 145 miles.
Now, I know it sounds like something Ernest Shackleton would try.... but it's really not as bonkers as it sounds. And it certainly isn't "Tan Hill or bust". Think of it as a long winter clubrun, hopefully getting to Tan Hill..... and back. We've done it about 10 times, and have opted out of the final climb to TH just twice. Called the whole thing off just the once. So, if you fancy something to work towards, and a big adventure, then keep this in mind. Riding the black ribbon of Buttertubs Pass across the snowy wilderness has got to be one of cycling's greatest experiences
thankfully it brought us out somewhere I recognised from previous rides.