Piston Problems

After a customary cups of tea and cake Jon and John left Chichester at 18:45, heading past the hospital and then up through summersdale through past East Lavant to the flinty Chalkpit Lane. Jon took the lead with John behind this week's excuses had something to do with running the day before and still recovering from Al's stag weekend in the Peak District. Jon found himself at the top at Trundle having overtaken some hardy runners, with John slowly but steadily riding up the Lane. At the top some lovers in the car park were looking annoyed at sight of us. Quickly leaving the lovers carpark therefore we traversed the trundle for our first downhill. Jon led on and was pleasently happy with himself using no brakes until the bend at the bottom; John continued to be surprisingly slow behind.

Road biking around the race course at Goodwood we then rode downhill through Chalton Park Forest; this time John overtook Jon on the downhill but not before he had been forced into a bumpy gully on the way down. At the Fox goes Free a well deserved pint of Guiness was enjoyed by John and and Betty Stoggs by Jon. After a lengthy chat of the highlights of the weekend past the pair sped off up Town Lane observing lots of Red-legged Partridges and unusual number of of cars. Cutting across the field by Trundle we biked it down chalkpit Lane to the road. Jon's elation at beating John to the bottom quickly evaporated when John indicated that he had a brake problem: His piston on his front disc breaks was not retracting, forcing the brakes to remain on during the descent. Oh well at least he did not have a puncture!

John Struggles up the Trundle

Despite this we got back before 21:00 for a Parson's chilli using up real chillies from Jon's plant. We watched a programme called Tough Guy or Chicken involving supposedly tough guys learning Chagras skills in rounding up cattle on the uplands of Ecuador. Pretty lightweight fare compared to an evening with the TCA.

(Posted by: Jon)

Glorious Goodwood

With John in foreign climes and Billy-Bob suffering from a cold and a shortage of brownie points it was left to Jon and Al to bear the TCA standard. It had been a sunny day punctuated by heavy showers but the clouds had cleared by the time Al got over to Chichester for the traditional pre-ride tea and cakes.

Two's Company

Leaving at 18:30 the pair headed for the trundle and followed the route of the recent Chichester Challenge up towards the South Downs. Notably Al was 'King of the Trundle' for the first time in many a month; hearing the familar sound of Jon crunching his gears with a few hundred yards to go Al made a victorious break for the line! The good weather, early start and the fact that Al had committed to stay at Jon's for the evening meant that they did not have to watch the clock this week so we reviewed the map once we had got firmly into the countryside.

Jon Checks the Route

Typically our circular routes would bear west along the South Downs way before returning to Chichester but we fancied a change; heading east towards Cocking we made for firm TCA favorite, the Fox Goes Free at Charlton.

On the ascent from Cocking we met with another cyclist, laden with an enormous rucksack, filling his water bottle at one of the municiple taps strewn along the South Downs Way. Our new companion explained that he had travelled from Sheffield that morning and was tackling the route from Winchester to Eastbourne with tow friends. Having done most of his biking in the peak district the cyclist explained that he had underestimated the difficulty of the constantly undulating terrain, and that they were running at least a couple of hours late.

Lush Greenery of an
English Summer Ride

As the one cyclist caught up with his companions the TCA turned south for the long descent to Cocking which felt well deserved after spending most of the evening peddling up hill so far. It was not long before the pair were enjoying pints for Harvey's Sussex Bitter. Cocking was awash with Range Rovers and sozzled race goers - this week marked the opening day of Glorious Goodwood at the race course high on the hill above us.

Toast to Absent Friends,
The Fox Goes Free

Leaving the pub we hit the tortuous climb by road up the northern approach to the Trundle. We were afforded views across the the race course and the usually quiet back road with taxis ferrying racegoers back to Chichester from the various country pubs around the estate. As we approached the descent on the homeward leg of our journey is was time to light up for the first time in weeks.

The Royal Oak was packed full of race-goers in all their finery enjoying a meal after their day-out. Jon and Al looked only a little out of place splattered with mud in their cycling gear - more like jockeys we suppose! In any event the pair found a table outside and enjoyed two pints of Horsham Best from W.J. Kings.

Homeward Bound
in the moonlight

It was properly dark by the time the beers were sunk and it was lights all the way home. Slow-cooked lasagna was dish of the day back at Jon's, accompanied by a bottle of Arundel Sussex Gold. We struggled to find anything of a suitable genre for TCA viewing on the TV but eventually plumped for The Beach on Film Four. On an evening evocative of those 'good old days' the lads had clocked up 19 miles on an outstanding new route, had one more beer than strictly necessary and turned in just a little too late for a school night at 23.30.

Route Map (1): Southern Section
(click to enlarge)
Route Map (2): Northern Section
(click to enlarge)

Elevation Profile
(click to enlarge):

(Posted by: Al)

The Wrong Trousers

After the mix-up of the previous week Jon was keen to make amends; he raced back from Brighton to ensure attendance on the ride from his house and hopefully restored diplomatic ties with the TCA. Jon wasy soon to be joined by John and they made ready enjoying a cup of tea and some special guest swiss chocolate biscuits. (Actually they were brought a few years ago for people at work but never got there). They were still very palatable though and there were only a few crumbs left when Al arrived uncharacterisitically late.

As the traditional cups of tea were consumed there was some debate as to the appropriate apparel for the ride. Is was a cold evening and the threat of rain was looming. Jon was keen to try his new waterproof over-trousers out but was soon on the wrong end of an ear-bashing from John. Al had packed his over-trousers too and there was much offing-and-oning of strides as he listened to the other two's argument; eventually he felt that John might fr once be right and opted to leave the trousers behind.

Al soon made up for his late arrival eading from the front through Chichester up to East Lavant and past the ford. Starting up the Trundle up using Chalkpit Lane Al conceeded, making his customary comment to Jon that he would once again see him at the top. That gym spinning class seemed to have done something for Jon's fitness as he once again struck out for the summit. Al was not far behind but Johns abuse of business lunches of late, coupled with his lack of activity had obviously saddled him. After a breather for John, we carried on around the Trundle and down our first descent to the Goodward Horse track. We encountered a few droopy branches and a skiddy slippery surface under the bikes: Jon skidded off despite his brand new rear Maxxis Highroller tyre specifically designed for these conditions.

After a brief and fairly fast road section, we got to bridleway at the top of Chalton Woods where we had to again wait for John. By now it was getting cold and wet and Jon was truly appreaciating his new Endura waterproof trousers. Conversely Al was not; complaining as he was that he should never have listened to 'Wrong John'. Again enjoying a rutted, slippery downhill section, Al and John got to the bottom fairly quickly with Jon a bit behind and complaining about his lights as usual. We arrived at the Fox Goes Free where we found that the only ale available was their own eponymous brand. However it went down well and we braved the wintry, rainy conditions to cycle up knights Hill in a stiff head-wind with Jon leading and Al conserving his energy by slipstreaming. Once again at the top of Chalkpit Lane and the Trundle we had a brief debate about a longer route but decided to descend the lane

By now Al (and John had he cared to admit it) was uncomfortably cold from the waist down as his trousers were saturated in freezing mud and water. We dropped the idea of a pint at The Royal Oak in favour of heading home for an early bath, where Al was once again reunited with his warm, dry waterproof trousers. Back at base we enjoyed a lamb stew with winter vegand sweet potato watching Portsmouth play AC Milan felling a little bit robbed at the end after a two goal lead was given away.

(Posted by: Jon)

Footnote: As they cycled in tandem fashion up Knight's Hill Jon and Al argued about when they had both last ridden up and down the trundle on the same ride. Al's assertion was that it had been about two years since they had visited the Fox', going up the Trundle on the way there, and down the Trundle on the way home. Jon felt is was much more recent: For the record it had been 18 months (June 2007) and Al trusts that this is a long enough period for Jon to let him off the 2 pints he is now technically owed.

Spivs from Croydon

After Tea and Tiffin, the jo(h)ns got going on a sunny evening up round our usual route around Goodwood racing circuit towards East Lavant. Here John was suitably impressed that I had recently discovered a quiet shortcut through the village straight to the bottom of the Trundle, Chalkpit Lane. This avoids a slightly uncomfortable T junction in the village where we usually have to stop for traffic. This discovery had taken 4 years but better late than never I suppose.

With the setting sun, the struggle up towards the Trundle was bearable so much so that we stopped for a "Stanley Kubrik" quality photo - well maybe. At the top we admired the view across Chichester and its environs in the twilight. After negotiating the usual dilapidated gate to the east of the Trundle Mound, we embarked on the first downhill with John leading first and the usual slamming of brakes at the bottom to avoid the big oak tree. Around the Goodward horse circuit, we cycled down Chalton Road down through Charlton Park at speed and then to the Flying Fox at Chalton. Taking advantage of the light outside we sat drank outside on the timber benchs drinking to absent friends.

Riding up Knights Hill we encountered two shifty looking croydonite city types in a sporty BMW who wanted detailed directions to Fontwell racecourse and yet had a sat nav. Jon had to explain that they were no where near this racecourse, we were near Goodward racecourse and we not near Barnham where they also wanted to go. At this point John had sensibly decided to ride ahead. After the giving out of some detailed instructions, turn left and head for the sea, they then offered to give Jon and bike a lift a tow. Sensibly it was declined. With a burst of speed and wheel spinning they left Jon in their wake. Now it is one thing to get lost using basic maps as the TCA do but with a sat nav. These people are the so-called "masters of the universe".

After a brief chat with John on what he had missed, both Jo(h)ns rode home down the Chalkpit Lane and through Summersdale past the swollen Lavant and home for a hot chilli.

(Posted by: Jon)

Fox Saves the Day

We had decided the week before to undertake the 'Long Chichester Ride', for the first time since July 2007. It was a fine summer evening and Jon arrived home from work to find Paul and John already checking over their bikes and kit - the omens looked good and conditions were perfect. After being let into the house cups of tea were served and everyone helped themselves to a French Fancy [For the benefit of our international readers this is a variety of fondant cream cake, not a lady of ill repute, Ed.]. Al was running late and had rang earlier suggesting that the three others ride ahead; he would catch up on account of his superior fitness. However, the other riders waited graciously for Al, who quickly gulped down a cup of tea and a French Fancy on arrival but grumbled that these particular cakes were not in keeping with the general image that the Association had worked hard to cultivate.

Al's late arrival meant that we set off with an amended plan - we now aimed to go beyond Chalton and then through West Dean, past the charcoal burners, then back down the Lavant valley. Steadily we went round the Goodwood motoring circuit, up Chalkpit Lane and on to the Trundle. John was King of the Trundle this week, the others were suspicious as to whether there was some surreptitious training going on.

John welcomes the stragglers
at the top of the trundle

At the top of the climb we turned right towards Goodwood horse circuit and Chalton. Jon casually mentioned that we might have to miss the pub at Chalton in order to travel a bit further, but immediately there were protestations from the ranks. Billy-Bob wanted his pint at Fox Goes Free! The route winds around the Trundle offering fantastic views of Chichester and it's hinterlands, and then incorporates a useful short downhill section towards the Goodwood Grandstand, where there was an eye-catching party going on. On the road now, we cycled past the horse racing circuit and then through Chalton Park on a bridleway along Chalk Lane to Chalton. While John and Al lead the ride together, John shot ahead on the steep drop into the village leaving Al to wonder about his form and/or suspension set-up.

There was no question of passing the Fox Goes Free - John and Al had quickly ordered 4 pints of Reg's Tipple, a pint that generated some debate: Some thought that it had a distinctive fruity taste with peaty overtones (John/Jon) but some thought it was just plain bland, with a slightly sickly backnote (Billy-Bob/Al); sadly there was no bearded CAMRA man on hand to settle the issue. However the choice of the next part of the route generated even more debate and discord;behind time for the original plan, we just could not decide where to go next. Eventually it was agreed that we would go back towards the top of Chalkpit Lane by the Trundle and take a right into the Lavant valley taking in a good downhill involving a steep grassy field.

Arguments rage at the Fox over the route ahead

We started the slog up Knights Hill with John well ahead again. Al immediately had technical difficulties and appeared to have got a large spanner out to adjust a jockey wheel. On closer inspection Paul and Jon saw it was a big stick that had got itself lodged in Al's rear derailier . Eventually we were off-road again and made our way through a meadow to the west of the trundle mound which was abundant with wild flowers, including pyramid orchids and yellow rattle. At the top of Chalkpit Lane, we turned right along the edge of a cornfield with Al uncharacteristically trailing due to further technical problems. We all raced down the grassy hill though, then followed the trail in the direction of East Lavant and the Royal Oak. This section was largely uneventful although John was berated for a minor departure from gate-opening protocol. Once at the pub there was no debate about the beer to have at the Royal Oak, as Skinners Betty Stogs was on tap, a brew from Cornwall that was the staple at Billy-Bob's wedding.

Rather than go back the way we came alongside the Goodwood circuit, we rode back through a bridleway leading to Summersdale, north Chichester for a change. It involves cycling past, and avoiding, a ford. Nevertheless Al took great pleasure in trying to barge Jon into it: Simple things please simple minds. Back at the house, spiced Moroccan lamb with couscous was served which went down very well with all concerned.

Route Map (click to enlarge):

Elevation Profile (click to enlarge):

(Posted by: Jon)

Three Planners Planning

'You can borrow my old stead' said Jon. 'Alright' said Billy-Bob, it will do the job... or so he thought. After a quick assessment of the mighty orange bike, a hydro spanner adjustment and prising the welded brake blocks from the muddy rims they were good to go. Matt aided the pre-ride adjustments by providing candle light from his lighter. John later revealed that he had not used or cleaned his bike for well over a year.

Which is brighter - the lights, or Jon's Bike?

The Chi bimble was a trusted soft ride yet a reliable jaunt to dust off work-stiff muscles. Jon was in confident mood and led off in a meaningful manner. The ride was set at a medium pace dictated by Jon, quick enough at least to prevent Matt stopping en route for a cheeky nicotine break. The evening route took in the trusty favorite watering holes of The Partridge and the Fox Goes Free, the latter was quite busy with hungry well-dressed punters. It was a still dark night only just deserved of thermal wear, Billy-Bob was glad he was wearing his shorts on this occasion.

A Toast to Absent Friends, The Partridge

The evening was pretty uneventful, blighted by only minor equipment failure on route to Chalton where Billy-Bob dislodged Jon's antique rear light fixture which spilled out over the road and narrowly avoided being crushed by an oncoming vehicle. The infamous climb up to the Goodwood trundle followed the second pub stop then it was a direct road ride back to Jon's. Unfortunately the return trip was conducted in complete darkness as all three intrepid biker's had complete light failure. Jon's nasty orange machine had its uses as it lit up the route home with its slightly suspect paint job!

Back at Chez Jon, Billy-Bob and Matt sat down and sank into his over-soft sofa in preparedness for a fine plate of slow cooked chili, followed by seconds (and for Matt, thirds). Billy-Bob complimented Jon on his new shiny bathroom fittings and ample supply of lavatory paper, this was followed by a brief discussion on Eco Towns. Alas there was no dessert to follow only a feast of bad television and Matt's even worse jokes. Notwithstanding the pud disappointment, all in all it was a fine evening's ride for the trio.

(Posted by: Billy-Bob; pictures by Jon)

Déjà Vu?

Having decided to take on the familiar 'Goodwood Circuit to the Fox at Chalton' route a minor disagreement ensued since John was sure that he had not done this route before, while Jon was equally convinced that he had [Records later confirmed that John had indeed ridden a similar route on June 7th 2007, Ed.]. The arguement was diffused over the now customary cups of tea and the pair set off towards the off-road bridleway known as Stocks Lane adjacent to the racing circuit. It was a challenge to avoid the ruts, mud and puddles normal at this time of year.

Both riders were looking forward to Chalkpit Lane and the steep ascent to the Trundle. It soon became evident that our fitness levels have suffered from the excesses and inactivity of winter. Normally we get to the half way point of this track where it levels out for a spin on our middle cogs, but this time we were struggling and had to revert to the granny gears rather sooner than we expected. Apparently John had had too many good business meals, especially curries in India, whereas Jon was still recuperation after his "Delhi Belly" problems. John managed to get to top first and we enjoyed some views with the lights of Chichester in the distance(below). Past the car park we decided to traverse the Trundle itself and then proceed downhill to the Goodwood horse racing course.

Past rides had been a bit of a calamity on the punctured tyres front - indeed, like a taboo, the word 'puncture' had not been raised that evening. Meeting two other mountain bikers on the downhill it was reassuring to see that we are are not alone in suffering from these afflictions. Ever the salesman John cunningly managed to sell one of his spare inner tubes for £3 to one of the bikers who had gone out without spares and expceted to travel back to Barnham.

After cutting the corner across the grounds by the main stand we cycled along the road parallel to one of the main stretches of the course and then down the Chalk Road track through Chalton Park. By now John was well in front on his new full suspension Scott but we both made it down fairly quickly to the Chalton and the regular stop at the Fox Goes Free. It was obviously a night for mountain bikers as we met two more riders inside and couple more on our way out after a pint. Thankfully we just escaped the band which were setting up as we enjoyed our beer.

A Toast to Absent Friends at The Fox Goes Free

As usual we warmed our cockles fairly quickly on the uphill part of road on Knights Hill before crossing the field to the top of Chalkpit Lane where we had been previously that evening. Again John sped swiftly down over the ruts and bumps to the bottom and onto the Royal Oak. Unfortunately a car had parked at the bottom of the steps so no special skills this week, and with time pressing we actually decided to ride straight back to mine for a hot chilli while watching Torchwood (and the gorgeous Gwen) on John's old TV (which has now replaced the inferior Billy Bob TV).

(Posted by: Jon)

Last Ride of Freedom

According to the finest traditions of the land a motley TCA crew assembled to provide long-time associate, Ad with a send off ahead of his wedding in March to fellow associate Julie. Chichester was chosen as the venue for this auspicious occasion on account of the dossing space afforded by Jon's house. The route was debated as the riders trickled in and put together the familiar kit; With an air of resignation Ad did up the fastenings on his helmet for the last time as a free man and by 19:00 we hit the road bound for the route which proved such a festive treat on last year's Christmas ride. The conditions could not have been kinder - although cold (the temperature would drop below freezing before the night was out) it was a clear, still evening. We retraced our festive tracks through the city centre and on towards the cycle path leading north.

There was a curious atmosphere in the Earl of March, our first stop after some half an hour. A Friday night ride is a highly irregular occurence for the TCA; we are used to deserted pubs, maybe with the odd loner propping up the bar but the Earl was liberally sprinkled with diners, couples out for a drink and groups of friends. We felt decidedly out of place as we attracted strange looks from the other clientèle. Choosing a discrete table for five we ordered our pints of Ringwood Best - I daresay we should have shared laddish jokes and discussed the worthiness of the various barmaids according to the true spirit of the evening but it had been some time since we'd seen each other and we took the first stop to catch up with each other's news.

Our first pints dispatched we headed through Lavant towards the familiar ascent of the trundle. Only a few hundred yards into the climb John, who was bringing up the rear shouted 'stop!' and we all congregated around the stricken bike as last week's form continued - yet another puncture for the new Bontrager Mud X tyres. With much cursing of his new 'tweak' John worked steadily with help from Ad to replace yet another inner tube, the other riders illuminated the scene (all except Al that is, who took the opportunity to try out his new camera).

Bontrager Mud Wrestling:
Jon repairs his puncture

Having fixed John's problem the group were off again led by Al: Soon an unassailable lead opened up and Al, experiencing some respiratory difficulties it has to be said, pronounced himself 'King of the Trundle' for the first time in many-a-week! Ad and Charlie arrived next, closely followed by John (Delhi Belly) and Jon (hampered by some mystery complaint that had rendered him uncharacteristically sluggish). Having re-grouped Al got his excuses in early to Ad as he seemed to have lost the ability to engage the highest gears on his front chain ring - there would be no repeat of the famous Christmas race to the Partridge. Predictably the Stag shot off at warp speed down the crazy gradient leading towards West Dean leaving the others in his wake.

Cue more strangle looks from the regular punters as we marched in to our next pub in all our various apparel. Fuggle-Dee-Dum from Goddards Brewery on the Isle of Wight was the beer of choice in the Partridge. Initially there was a collective sense that there might be something strange in the beer as we all started to feel a little light headed. However our control, Charlie who was on lemonade, also felt a bit strange. We put it down to the 40mph descent in temperatures close to zero and continued drinking.

The distance between the Partridge and the Fox Goes Free is dangerously only a matter of a few hundred yard, such is the quality of this route for a good session on the beer. With the couple of ales inside us on an empty stomach the usual tom-foolery began - jostling and running each other off the road... until Charlie (the only rider unfamiliar with the area) shot off on a solo effort in the traditional sprint-style race to the pub - Ad had to chase him down as he screamed past the Fox at full speed! Having retrieved Charlie from West Sussex somewhere we stopped outside the pub to get our breath back and capture the obligatory group photo.

Like the previous hostelries the Fox was packed to the rafters; it was standing room only while we enjoyed our pints of - Ad's favorite - Ballards Best. Approximately 3/4 of the way down our Beers John commented that his pint smelled of cheese. There was some debate as to who had the pint that most smelled of cheese, and which particular variety of cheese it smelled of. The final conclusion though was that the beer was fine and that rather we had undergone some sort of sensory displacement on account of the cold.

The Stag Party:
(Left to Right: Charlie; Ad; Jon; Ali G; Al)

Leaving the warmth of the Fox we braced ourselves for the slog back up the hill towards the Goodwood racing complex. As we left the car park we had a brief exchange with a couple of smokers who apparently could not believe we had chosen to use our well earned leisure time in this matter - half way up the hill in the freezing wind we were also questioning the wisdom of our decision; wouldn't it just have been easier to hole-up in Jon's local for the evening? In any event Ad narrowly beat Al on this particular King of the Mountains section and the others soon caught up for the long sweeping down-hill back towards Lavant. There were reports of a near-miss with a white van for Jon on the way down, and Ad and Al had an encounter with some Vauxhall Nova driving chavs at the bottom of the hill, but we remained largely unscathed. We were soon propping up the bar in the Royal Oak.

With some stroke of genius Jon had thought to pack the menu from his local curry house in his hydration pack - knowing that we were only a 20-minute ride from home Al phoned through the unfeasibly large order at about 22:00, requesting delivery at 23:00. This should give us enough time to take a leisurely ride home, grab a shower, crack open a bottle of beer, select some dirge on the telly befitting the occasion and wait for the doorbell signaling the arrival of our gastronomic delights... well that was the plan anyway.

Fueled by 4 pints of lemonade Charlie suggested a mandatory imposition that everyone should leave the pub on their bikes via the short set of steep steps leading from the patio area. Some rides were less nervous/more drunk than others and launched themselves at the steps while others were more tentative. Finally however all were assembled, unscathed at the bottom of the steps and headed home at full steam.

Charlie (above) and Jon (below)
tackle the
'Royal Oak Steps of Death Challenge'

It was not clear which rider towards the front of the peleton took the fateful decision to part from the prescribed route and use the Goodwood perimeter track rather than the road route past the Rolls Royce factory. However, three-quarters of the way down the track Ad pulled up with our second puncture of the evening, with curry delivery imminent! Jon and Al continued alone while the others helped Ad patch up his bike. The advance party arrived just in time to greet the driver and by the time the others had caught up, plates, cutlery and beers were readied, and most of the various dishes identified. A perfect end to a splendid evening.

All that remains to be said is good luck to Ad and Ju for the forthcoming nuptials from all at the TCA - may you have a long and happy future together, and many a filthy ride!

Route Map (click to enlarge):

Elevation Profile:

(Posted by: Al)

Christmas Ride 2007

Chichester was chosen as the venue for this year's ride - Jon, in his capacity as host, presented riders with generous slices of Yule log with their tea on arrival . There was some debate as to the festive route - Jon had two alternatives in mind and argued that we should tackle a longer, semi-off-road route with one or two stops, while Matt and Al preferred a less challenging, pub-strewn excursion. Eventually a trip up and over the Trundle with a liberal sprinkling of drinking holes was settled as Al, John, Matt, Ad and finally Jerry (resplendent with shiny new full-susser) kitted up in the drive. Spirits were high for this highly-anticipated annual event; Ad in particular was beside himself with excitement!

We set off through the city centre and, with lane selection not a skill usually required by the TCA, soon realised that the drivers of Chichester were not yet ready to extend good tidings of great joy to the riders seemingly weaving randomly through their streets. Back on more familiar territory we eventually headed north out of the city on the cycle path familiar to participants of the Chichester Challenge. Jon led the way, taking his guiding duties seriously on this auspicious occasion, and safely found the Earl of March before too long.

A festive toast at the Earl of March
(left to right: Matt, Al, Jon, Ad, John, Jerry)

Hearty toasts were drunk to the TCA and to absent friends, celebrating another year in the saddle. The pints of London Pride however were soon drunk; time to put back on thermal layers and waterproofs, and head out into the night once more. We were bound for the Trundle, the only really challenging part of the ride we had in mind. The pace was more sedate than usual as the friends caught up with each other's news but soon all were assembled at the top ready for the descent by road to Singleton. Ad and Al led the way on this exhilarating drop - clocking 44.8mph before reaching the Partridge Inn.

While the other riders were sure that the TCA had never visited this establishment before Al realised that this was where he and Billy-Bob had broken their epic south-downs over-night hike (to eat what felt like their own body weight in Sunday dinner) in the pre-blog days. We trooped into the bar to the bemusement of the diners and pitched our spot near the obligatory Christmas tree.

Another toast to absent friends,
Partridge Inn, Singleton

With beers once more consumed we set off by road to Charlton and the Fox Goes Free, a more regular TCA stop. By now, with two pints inside them on an empty stomach and pulses raised by the descent to singleton, Ad and Al were engaged in a jousting match, finally culminating in a race to the pub which in true seasonal fashion was declared a draw. The Fox's garden was resplendent with an enormous Christmas tree beneath which bike were parked (below).

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE TCA
...see you for a ride in 2008

We left the pub dreading the next section of the ride - the long, steep ascent (albeit by road) back up towards the Goodwood racing circuit at the top of the downs. Eventually we reached the top of our climb and realised we had some dissent in the ranks - some favoured a trip back down the trundle - a departure from our planned descent by road to TCA favourite, the Royal Oak - while the majority of the party felt it unwise to tackle this the wrong side of three pints. Jerry (who was only the wrong side of two pints and keen to give his new bike a good thrashing) and Ad (who was still delirious with excitement) threw caution to the wind and headed cross-country for Chalk Pit Lane (indicated by the dotted line on the route map).

The four road-based riders sped towards the Royal Oak and were strangely satisfied to see the lights of the other two in the break-away party on the hill far above them. John, Jon, Matt and Al reached the pub (below) first but were rather put-out by the lack of festive ambiance (not even a Christmas tree!). The beer however was rather good and they soon forgot about this minor detail.

Merry Christmas without the decs. at the Royal Oak

Departing the Royal Oak we were taken by surprise as we rode directly towards a magnificent firework display, which the party assumed was something to do with the nearby Rolls Royce factory. This was the icing on the cake of a magnificent ride and spirits were high for the short trip back to Jon's place, Ad insisting that we really should think about singing a carol or two.

Jon had a real treat in store at home - he had cooked Fricasse of Turkey (and all the trimmings!) served on a bed of noodles for the occasion. He had also laid on winter ale as an accompaniment and mince pies with brandy butter for pudding - terrific!

Have yourself a Merry TCA Christmas with
Jon's Festive Turkey Fricasse

With all the food gone Jerry headed for home as Al cracked open the after-dinner whiskey (laid on by a Founding Father as dictated by ancient custom and practice). Thanks as ever to Jon, who allowed everyone to stay overnight, for his excellent hospitality. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to one and all!

Route Map (click to enlarge):

Elevation Profile:

(Posted By: Al)

Top Tables

John drove from Manchester while Al made the comparatively short trip from London to meet at Jon’s for this week's ride. It was a pleasant evening; the westerly breeze providing relief from warm, humid conditions. We plumped for our regular Goodwood ride since John was yet to do this established route – the last time we tackled it the ride was somewhat curtailed by technical difficulties. We thought we were in for a similar experience this week when, with only 441ft showing on the odometer, John’s gears ceased up before we reached the end of Jon’s road.

John’s gears seemed to fix themselves as we worked our way towards the trundle. Al had started his training regime this week in preparation for the Chichester Challenge and, with the recent Staunton Park mileage also heavy on his legs, struggled to keep up with the others on the familiar ascent - by the time the car park was reached Al was a full 90 seconds behind. After a breather we decided to push for the trig point at the summit rather than skirting through the field, stopped for our customary photo and admired the magnificent views of the downs on one side, Chichester on the other and beyond all the way to the sea and the Isle of Wight.

Jon, Al & John on top of the Trundle

After the steep descent off the trundle we picked up the road that skirts the race course. Goodwood looked magnificent with immaculately manicured lawns, flags flying and tables and chairs set up for the regular Friday evening racing. We joined the bridle path which follows the perimeter of the race course before descending to Charlton and the Fox Goes Free. John and Al had a pint of the intriguing and delicious Hidden Pint from the Hidden Brewery in Dinton near Salisbury. John enjoyed a pint of the local Ballards Bitter as we all marvelled at the monolithic garden furniture which had been installed (Below).


After polishing off our beer we remounted and climbed the road back up towards the trundle. Gluttons for punishment we took a slightly longer (and definitely steeper) route back up via the summit rather than using the short cut following the contours around the peak. We cycled around the ancient walled fort and regrouped at the car park at the top of Claypit Lane. Al was keen to make up for his lack of pace on the ascent and managed to reach the bottom 90 seconds ahead of Jon who had reached the top first - revenge is sweet! At this point we decided to split up; with time marching on John was keen to get home but Al and Jon fancied a customary second pint in the Royal Oak.

The Jo(h)ns study the map at the Fox

Using the well-worn Goodwood perimeter track Jon and Al followed John’s tread-marks back to base after their beer. With no sign of John at home there was even more delicious spaghetti bolognese for the remaining two, washed down with bottles of Abbott Ale while watching ‘Hustle’ on the box. Al chose to stay over and, now that Jon has got rid of his lodger and with no Billy-Bob on the scene, finally got a proper bed!

Elevation Profile:

Speed Profile:

Route Map (click to enlarge):

(Posted by: Al)

Titchfield Two Take Trundle Trig Trip

We ventured out at about 18.15 after a cup of tea and discussion of a slight variation to the normal route to tackle the regular circuit taking in the Goodwood estate and Charlton - we finally figured the good weather and daylight would make a sufficient change. Whilst sipping our tea I also took the opportunity to reassure Al that my recent rear-end problems were by now completely resolved. We cycled along Westhampnett Road, through the debris at the back of the crematorium and through the Homebase car park (Jon takes us to all the best places! Ed.), then along Madgewick Lane and Stocks Lane, the real start of the off-road route. Normally it is rutted, muddy and slow-going but today it was much easier, if a bit bumpy, due to the prolonged dry weather. Al's solo efforts the previous weeks paid off and he was soon ahead past the Royal Oak in East Lavant.

Jon nears the top of Chalkpit Lane

It was a warm, sunny evening and we soon ran into the inevitable fair-weather cyclists, horse riders and walkers, as we climbed Chalkpit Lane... where were they all back in February? I was struggling with a cold caught in Wales the previous week and our normal positions on the ascent were reversed, with Al pulling some distance ahead. I realized how Al had felt the time before when he complained about having ridden on only one lung.

At the top of Chalkpit lane we normally traverse Trundle Hill but tonight we fancied a little diversion: We easily located the gravel track up towards the Trundle itself, an iron-age hill fort the marked with a trig point. I remarked that it looked quite easy but soon regretted such a comment; the back wheel of my bike was spinning in the gravel as it lost traction. Eventually we got on top and rode along the ancient battlements until we dropped down onto a trig point for a breather, where we had some great views of the Sussex Coast, the Downs and Goodwood race course. I felt slightly better at this point after cleaning out much of my cold from lungs and sinuses onto the grass.

A Breather at the top of the Trundle
(Goodwood race course in the distance)

We continued around the Trundle before dipping down onto our usual downhill route towards the Goodwood Race Course. We slipped into the grounds of the track through some gates that had been left open and briefly looked at the course from the stands - the course offers spectacular views from it’s position perched high on the Downs - and then sped along the road and onto Chalk Road (which is more track than road), negotiating more loose walkers. It’s getting to the time of year when a bit of sun in the evening brings the townies out in force which is really annoying for us dedicated to year-round pursuits; we feel we should at least have right of way as they meander (often with dogs and kids in tow) randomly across our byways! In any event this part of the ride is usually quite challenging because it is rutted, slippery and of adverse camber as it descends steeply. The dry weather has improved things considerably and of course these technical elements are generally a little easier in daylight now that the evenings are drawing out. The track emerges in Charlton at The Fox Goes Free, which is fast becoming a regular TCA watering hole.

By this time, I was ready for the usual pint of Ruddles County at the Fox, I also relished a brief respite, finally feeling that my lungs had not packed up completely. We left the busy pub (half-term; bloody kids) into the by now chilly atmosphere and cycled hard up Knights Hill to get warm. We saw the top of Trundle, where we had previously been, and were tempted to go follow a steep ascent to the summit but decided to leave if for another day and use our usual route east of The Trundle. We passed Cross Dyke and then through a field to the top of Chalkpit Lane where we put my lights on for the first time. On the top section Al avoided Matt’s accident spot, the scene of the worst ‘Off’ in TCA history, by using a higher level route which neither of us had spotted before, alongside a field adjacent to the main track.

At the bottom, we enjoyed two pints of Sussex in The Royal Oak in tropical conditions afforded by a patio heater which was running at full tilt in the empty forecourt. Why do people pay money for a tan when you can get it for free under one of these dreadful things? I soon wished that I had brought some sun cream!

To Absent Friends - Totally Tropical!

We remarked that it was perhaps the most blatant example of the current trend towards carbon wastage for an incremental improvement in comfort. Why don’t they just make some blankets available for those wishing to sit outside? We decided to launch our own mini planet-friendly protest and turned the heater off. It was the sensible thing to do but the temperature dropped though quickly so with little hesitation, we drank up and followed the perimeter track round the motor racing circuit. After a brief divergence of routes (Al favouring a return to Homebase car park rather than the traditional and more direct road-route) we got back to No. 14 in good time to watch the enthralling final few overs of England v Sri Lanka in the cricket World Cup while tucking into a hot beef chilli (no horse meat this time for the TCA!).

Route Map (click to enlarge):

Elevation Profile:

Speed Profile:

Stats:

(Posted by: Jon)

Valentine's Antidote

After the inevitable conversation about their respective and contrasting Valentines nights' exploits Jon and Al set off from the house, leaving Matt behind to his 'studies', Al looking an ill man - worse for wear due to a serious bout of man-'flu. Local guide Jon picked one of the TCA's favourite short routes; up the trundle and around Goodwood to Charlton. The pair set off at a fair rate having not ridden for at least a couple of weeks but it was soon noted that Al was suffering and lagging behind significantly, complaining that it felt as if he had only one lung. The stretch along side the Goodwood motor racing circuit was hard going due to recent rain but finding the least muddy and wet part of the track next to circuit's fencing we made steady progress.

Once back on the road we sped through East Lavant and past the Royal Oak and onto the Trundle. This is one of Jon's favourite and well practiced uphills therefore it was agreed that the riders would meet at the top. Jon duely got to the top with ease and could see Al's flickering lights gradually ascending some way behind, he could also see another set of lights catch up and soon overtake the stricken Al! Is it a bird, is it a plane, had Matt decided to come after all to exorcise the trundle demons?! No, an even more unlikely scenario was unfolding - we had met another mountain biker! This is a rare occurrence for the TCA in the winter and Jon chatted enthusiastically with the lone rider at the top for what felt like half an a hour whilst waiting for Al, who by now was in some respiratory distress.

We eventually went our separate ways (Al and Jon, and the lone biker) and tranversed along the trundle on open, exposed downland towards Goodward horse racing track. There was a bracing head wind but this was nothing compared to the infamous "Winter Olympics" snow-biking night we had with Billy Bob last year. Once across the down there was a satisfying, steep downhill towards the horse racing circuit. We then joined the road past the main grandstand after which Jon decided to ride along the horse rutted grass verge which was hard work; Al preferred to conserve energy but compromise on fun by taking the easier option of riding the road alongside. Soon both riders were off the road heading down Chalk Road track through Charlton Park (although Al almost went wrong momentarily heading off towards East Dean on his own). The descent was muddy, wet and slippery - front wheels seemed to be have a mind of their own!

The time of night for refreshment soon arrived as we approached The Fox Goes Free in Charlton. A pint of Ruddles County re-energised us at the bar and the now traditional posing for photographs (below) seemed to entertain the locals. On the road again, we rode up Knight's Hill; a steep and cold uphill unwelcome after coming straight out of the warm pub, Al's breathing difficulties exacerbated by the smoky conditions in the bar at the Fox. A slight diversion from the usual route at the top of the hill took us via a short cut over Cross Dyke towards the car park by the top of the Trundle. It was demanding following the path through grass but we soon sped down the trundle track, Chalkpit Lane past the site of Matt's spot of bother. [Al easily making up for his lack of pace on the same part of the track earlier in the evening, becoming quite cold and bored as he waited at the bottom for Jon to make his sloth-like progress down the hill, Ed.]. The next port of call was the local gastropub, the Royal Oak for a pint of Badger accompanied by some classy home made vegetable crisps.

Al, full of cold, struggles to get to the bar before the auto-timer.
Jon enjoys his pint alone.

Homeward bound then and Al stopped moaning and went into Duracel mode fueled by deep-fried parsnip, taking to heart Jon's local advice on how to ride the Goodward motor racing circuit section more efficiently. It was Jon's turn to lag on the muddy section but the duo soon arrived home for nosh in the form of a Hungarian Goulash, which it has to be said was not up to the usual high TCA standard - exercising the jaw muscles rather more than the taste buds - but filling a gap nevertheless. We took the taste away with some delicious millionaire's shortbread.

(Posted by: Jon)

Route Maps:

Map 1

Map 2

Map 3