Assault on Portchester Castle

Following the epic (and prolonged!) TCA adventure the previous week in Chichester, for various legitimate and some questionable excuses, i.e. Billy Bob nursing a swollen knee and “Man Flu”, Al off in Scotland and Jon wanting to meet up with a sailor (to be confirmed). It was left up to the most junior of the TCA members to keep the fighting spirit going.

So “Wrong” John contacted a neighbor who had previously expressed a wish to ride with this fine bunch of elite athletes. John, clearly had to vet and interview this perspective new member to ensure that he had the required attributes and attitude required. Steve firstly explained that he would not take the rides too seriously and liked his beer, oh and by the way was a successful and dedicated tri-athlete and Navy diver, so he passed the test.

Steve with a view of Portsmouth harbour in background

With Steve’s skills and knowledge, perhaps the vacant position of TCA Physical Training Instructor, (not sure it has ever been filled?) but more importantly the new tradition of the TCA regard for initialisms could be fulfilled, so Steve could be a TCAPTI, and with his extensive experience on a bike could help advise TCA members on TTF’s (see boys weekend in Scotland blog for explanation)

So the duo decided to head out from Fareham and to follow the bridleway and Solent path route around the Fareham creek to Portchester Castle and then when at the castle deciding to follow the Grand Old Duke of York tradition of ascent and descent of a hill (Portsdown Hill) returning for suitable refreshment in the Castle in the Air pub.

Outside the Royal Armouries Portsdown Hill

The great British summer was still evident, with temperatures around 23c, so with a brisk but reasonable pace it was not long before a few beads of sweet adorned Johns head, Steve lead the way and the duo followed the route mainly consisting of good single track paths interspersed with some roads and open grassland.

John enjoying a pint of Green King Sun Dance,
and Steve an extra cold Guinness.

It did not take too long before first blood was drawn, with a number of overgrown brambles and tree branches taking toll on the exposed flesh of the two intrepid riders. Around an hour and a half later with no punctures! The Castle in the Air provided the prerequisite TCA requirement for good beer.

Pub Map

(Posted by: John)