Johnny Saves the Day

Billy-Bob was still out with respiratory problems and John couldn't make it either. Al and Jon therefore resolved to make an early start and get another good, long ride in from Chichester. Traffic and work conspired to stall Al though and, having got the tea and cakes out of the way, the pair eventually left at 6.30 with the sun low on the horizon.

Al sets off up The Trundle

Jon had constructed yet another new route by piecing together bits of numerous previous outings. The first half of the ride followed the well-worn route up and over the Trundle into West Dean and then up towards the South Downs Way through West Dean Woods. All this was pretty uneventful as Jon and Al pressed on trying to get to the ridge without using lights. The plan was scuppered though by a catastrophic failure in Al's chain as he crunched through the gears. Al looked at his stricken bike helplessly - he knew he had left his chain tool and spare links in the 'bike box' at home in his rush to get out. Jon came to the rescue, pulling out a solitary spare link. With a typically slick team effort the TCA pair had the job done in less than 5 minutes. Had Jon not packed the requisite gear the pair were in a world of trouble on the most remote part of the route!

Nightfall on the South Downs Way

Along the ridge then, through the Devil's Jumps and down 'Boneshaker Alley' towards Hooksway. Reaching the bottom of the long, steep descent the pair could not believe their eyes; appearing out of the night like Brigadoon were the lights of the Royal Oak. Opening hours seem to have a mind of their own and it had been months since the TCA had happened on the establishment while it had been open. Jon and Al were treated to a veritable selection of Cornish beers but both plumped for the Cornish Knocker.

Once in a Blue Moon

Having finished the beer, and with a definite chill in the air, the pair headed through Phillis Wood towards Chilgrove. The conditions were nigh so perfect this evening - a clear, cool, dry night - that they briefly considered the ascent of Kingly Vale. With time pressing on, and Al's dodgy chain to consider, Jon and Al felt that they had not upset the cycling gods while they were on-side. They headed instead back to West Dean and by cycle path and dismantled railway to Lavant. The second Royal Oak of the evening (and a "5 out of 10" pint of Bombadier, according to Jon). After their second pint it was home by the usual route.

Jon had been experimenting again with the slow cooker and, with a glut of home grown chillies to use up, he had knocked up chilli & ginger chicken with noodles. They watched "iRobot" on the telly over another couple of bottles of beer but it was all too much for Al who fell asleep on the sofa before either the film or the pint were out.

Route Map (click to enlarge):

(Posted by: Al)

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)

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)

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)

Restaurant with Rooms?! The Selsey Lobster Disappoints (Again)

With John (with an 'h') enjoying a cosy night with the missus in their new camper van at the forest of Dean, it was left to the old guard to keep the dream alive: Arriving early at Jon (without a 'h')'s for customary 'cuppas' and chocolate shortcake [Jon has recently been in the habit of buying a pack of three cakes from Sainsbury's to provide essential pre-ride carbohydrate; I'm sure 'John's slice', shared equally between the pair, tasted best on this occasion, Ed.] it was with a sense of shame that Jon and Al realised that it had been over a year since The Association last tackled the 'Long Chichester Route'. This is one of our classic rides, responsible for numerous TCA epic adventures and mishaps, for a lengthy period the mainstay of our pre-blog activities.

For the record the route can be categorised in several distinct phases:

1. The Approach to East Lavant - by road and Goodwood perimeter track
   
2. East Lavant to West Dean - up and over the trundle on solid rocky terrain
3. West Dean to West Dean Woods - gentle ascent followed by sharp descent on road
4. The climb to the South Downs Way - wooded section on often boggy bridle paths
5. Along the South Downs Way - exposed ridge-ride followed by break-neck descent on well worn track
6. Hooksway to Chilgrove - often very boggy badly rutted bridal path
7. Chilgrove to Kingley Vale - endless ascent on woodland track and bridle path
   
8. Kingley Vale to West Stoke - Fast long and windy descent on smooth track
9. The long slog home by road

It was with a sense of foreboding that we fettled our machines in the murk; miserable weather was probably to be expected, it was the second week of Wimbledon after all. It had been raining solidly since about 16:00 but had eased off to leave low cloud and drizzle coupled with a stiff breeze from the south west: Perfect weather to test out TCA bikes, equipment and of course our unquestionable abilities ahead of the following week's marathon Chichester Challenge. At the back of our minds however, we also knew that warm, welcoming refreshment stops at established local hostelries were on the route so it wasn't all that bad. We made an unusually early start at around 18:15 and soon encountered the sodden and rutted Stocks Lane that skirts around Goodwood motor circuit (phase 1). It became obvious this was going to be a wet ride as it was impossible to avoid riding through some of the deep puddles along the track; we wondered momentarily whether a cosy night of sudoku (or whatever one does of an evening) in a camper van might have been the wise choice.

Jon bulleted up the Chalk Pit Lane to the base of the Trundle (phase 2) again putting allegations of drug taking at the top of the agenda. The view from the unusually deserted car park was of mist; the weather reminiscent of autumn rather than the first week of July. Dogging weather it was not Jon assured Al. We both hypothesised that we must be getting weather normally bound for Shetland and the Artic as the jet stream had either stopped, slowed down or changed course. Our way down a muddy, skiddy downhill through Calhourns Plantation and towards West Dean was tougher than usual, maximum concentration required to ensure the front wheel was in a straight line as it skidded randomly on the slick surface.

Guerrillas in the Mist

Crossing the A286 at West dean (phase 3), we picked up a minor road that gradually meandered up towards Colworth Down. It is deceptively steep towards the end before a good straight downhill. Al made up for lagging behind Jon on the ascent by screaming past him as we made our way back down towards West Dean Woods.

The track through Colworth Down (phase 4) is flinty to start with and normally has a great view across the rolling Sussex Countryside. It's also good for sightings of Turtle Dove and Warblers, but not today. The track entered Westdean Woods proper and we went past the familiar charcoal burning stoves and then up to Venus Wood on a steep ascent. We briefly stopped at the top, both well on the way to getting absolutely soaked. However the uninitiated might question our sanity, for umpteenth time in TCA history, we agreed with the old TCA addage that "it was much better then watching Eastenders" (or playing Sudoku in a camper van for that matter). The evocative smell of wet vegetation was powerful [Thanks Tortoiseshell, Ed.]; everything was overgrown, dripping with water and some of the tracks appeared not to have been used for centuries such was the lushness of the undergrowth. No doubt we would have been distracted by all this and got lost had Billy-Bob been in tow we thought. No chance these days though and we enjoyed a great bit of technical riding and “bumping” over fallen trunks of trees. It was around this point that Al even complemented Jon on how his technical ability had improved beyond measure since the early days, at which point Jon got too cocky, sprawling in a heap of bike and legs at the next obstacle.

The highest point of this ride is the South Downs Way proper (phase 5) which we found was more challenging than usual with a vicious, buffeting cross-wind and heavy rain; the exposed sections comprised ruts interspersed by high tufts of overgrown grass so that cycling in a straight line was difficult. We battled across Cocking Down, following it until we got to Phillis Wood where we leave the long-distance path for the descent to the Royal Oak at Hooksway, where the wooded section of the route provide welcome respite. Even the normally noisy guinea fowl were quiet in this inclement weather. We finally entered 'Bone-Shaker Alley'and reached the bottom of the descent looking for the welcoming lights of The Royal Oak. Of course there were none since the Free House was all closed up as usual; this is an excellent watering hole but the opening hours are somewhat erratic.

However, we knew that we could go to the alternative White Horse (or Selsey Lobster, as it is known in TCA circles) at Chilgrove instead after cycling down Philliswood Lane (phase 6). This lane is muddy with deep watery ruts at the best of times, but normally passable nevertheless by riding along the edge next to the higher hedgerowed bank at a steady speed. One can thus generally avoid slipping down into the abyss of deep mud and water. Jon however soon found a moment's hesitation is fatal, leading to a calamitous slide into mud, sludge and water up to his knees (compounding the damage by falling backwards off his bike). This was worse than Glastonbury and very ungainly for such a lanky rider (below). Still there was a pint waiting at the 'Lobster, eh?

We raced at top speed into the car park at the White Horse where we were met by a toffee-nosed snob of a landlord who, after asking what we were after, proudly announced the pub was no more: “We are a restaurant with rooms". After no hesitation at all we got back in the saddle and went straight up the track towards Kingly Vale (phase 7). A ride without pubs seemed a distinct possibility but our falling spirits were soon revived by some Tunnocks Caramel bars produced from Jon's back pack at the pinnacle of the energy-sapping climb. One could say that the ascent along the grassy track was a bit easier than it had been in the depths of winter, but the downhill section through the saddle between the two highest point of this section was treacherous: The rain had changed the clay into thick sludge, caking up tyres which meant we were sliding all over the place; both riders took heavy falls into the hedgerow undergrowth before curbing their speed.

Official Sports Snack of the TCA

Eventually we reached the peak which usually offers excellent views of Chichester and back along the spent route behind us. Although the rain was easing there were no such views today. At least we could enjoy the rapid descent back to the road (phase 8) where we paused for thought to consider where to have our customary, and this evening certainly well-deserved, refreshment. We rode on towards East Lavant and a pint at an old stalwart of previous rides, the Royal Oak. This time there was no 4WD to crash into Jon at the roundabout at the main road, as happened about a month ago on a training ride. We thought the first pints were a little flat and this evening only the best was going to suffice - we rejected pints of River Cottage Stinger that Al was so keen to see for the second time this 'summer' - opting for our more traditional, and the more local, Ballards Best.

With lights blazing for the first time in a good while we hit the road again for home (phase 9). The pair were back at house for about 22:00 and soon tucking into a spaghetti bolognese while watching top-quality TV, “My Big Breasts and I”, part of a 'medical' series on the BBC. With some relief (as it was never very good anyway) The White Horse is henceforth struck from the TCA list of recommended pubs.

Route Map (click to enlarge):
Elevation Profile:
Speed Profile:

(Posted by: Jon)

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)