Date: Tuesday 23rd March
Riders of the Storm: Colin, Paul, Paddy, Neil, James and Steve.
Weather - vurry wet.
Tides - High at midnight.

Thought as I'd suggested the route, I'd better take responsibility for the report. Das Routemeister was resting his legs in preparation for this weekends Sportive - "The Cheshire Cat" - we wish him well. Considering the weather there was a great turnout, we welcomed back Paddy - his steed recently rehooved; and Neil for his first ride this year, his steed gleaming in its own ethereal light. There was a a window in the weather as the six gallant knights set off into the er night.

I picked an old favourite ride of mine - it involved the Lopwell crossing and as my squires told me that high tide was at he midnight hour, I didn't suspect that there would be a problem. We cantered along the cycle path to the Clearborook road crossed the A386 into the Maristow estate. Seven Black Knights from Yogi on galloping steeds crossed our path - blooming nutters being out on a night like this!

We sped 'cautiously' down the bridlepaths to Lopwell, just occasionally being reminded to be wary of underfoot conditions as the front wheels then the rear would go awry at unexpected intervals. Then the surprise of the night, the Lopwell Dam was awash ....damn thought I; not a problem thought Steve as he dismounted and marched into the frothy waters. He was partially up for a crossing but those of us not wishing to get wetter than we actually were, managed to persuade him that this was not necessarily a night for valour. There WAS no fair maiden to rescue.

We retreated and slogged our way back up towards Buckland Abbey taking in the Pilgrims Mount aka the Ski Ramp. Through Buckland Monachorum we passed where Greg was locked into the warmth and hospitable Drake Manor on a quiz night. Passing Coppicetown we took the fast descent down B'stard Hill (for the first time). This proved an enjoyable break to the spate of climbs we had undertaken. It was so enjoyable that two of the knights prolonged its effect as they missed the right hand swing to Doublewaters.

Doublewaters was awash as the raging torrent of water from the Walkham tried to engulf one of its primary crossing points. Cross it we did though - as did Sirs Patrick and Paul, the disappearing knights, in the end. A tricky route was picked through the roots and mud to Grenofen and then Bedford Bridges. All that was required was a simple ride home up the A386 to Horrabridge to Yelverton.

Simple....? by the time we reached the hostelry, there was steam blowing from every orifice and unrestrained snorting. Paddy by all accounts crested first - who would bet against Paddy Power? With muddied tabards removed, the 6 wet knights, joined by Sir Greg and 'Merlin' Cade around THE ONE and ONLY Round Table supped their well earnt ales and discussed the following nights banquet around the Round Tables of the Golf Club.

Don't ever let me suggest this crossing again!

Reporter: Colin

President's Footnote: A reallocation of Committee duties could be in the offing. Consider this a final warning Colin!!