Date: Tuesday 25th October 2011
Route: Iron Mine Lane, Lowrey Cross, Boneshaker, South Hessary, Railway, Shortcut, Routrundle, Peak Hill, Yennadon, HQ.
Riders: Stephen, Julian, Sam, Steve, Keith & James.
Depart WP: 19:40
Arrive HQ: 22:00
Distance: About 17 miles
Weather: Chilly but dry

After the last two weeks where we'd had a total of twenty riders out, tonight we saw just five (at any one time). James didn't get further than WP due to a new chain that didn't gel with the rest of his bike. As he said, the hardest part of his evening was done, getting kitted up and going out of the front door. Although in hind sight, that probably wasn't true!

Having lost one at the off, thanks to setting the route beforehand, we regained our numbers at the top of Iron Mine Lane with Steve B cycling directly from Meavy to intercept us. We made our way safely to Leather Tor Bridge, regrouped then headed up towards the boneshaker. This would be the last time I'd see Sam until we got to the top. He disappeared out of sight with Steve B trying vainly to follow in his wake. The rest of us were huffing and puffing and dabbing and walking and swearing!

Along this tortuous stretch I got an indication of the Routemeister's lethargic condition, "I've had enough of this, where's the end" I heard him cry when only half way there!!! Contrast this with the beaming smile on Sam's face at the top, "I enjoyed that bit" said Sam!!

We turned left for Princetown over the very wet and rutted South Hessary motorway. I was happy to tag along at the tail until Steve B decided he wanted that spot. Because of this change of position, I missed Steve getting caught out by the deep puddle just after South Hessary where he took a trip over the front!! I thought the light behind me had disappeared, it was because it was lighting up the bottom of said puddle!!!

At Princetown the Routemeister's threat to take the 'jersey late payers' up North Hessary was very soon forgotten. We sped down the old railway instead and up to the Dartmoor Rescue car park. The Routemeister had now cracked and headed by road to HQ. The rest of us were wavering, but Julian insisted we go up Peak Hill. It was worth it for the view on this perfect, clear evening.

We dropped off, into the woods then over Yennadon to HQ. My plan here was to drug test Sam and check his bike for a hidden motor, but he didn't stop, a clear admission of guilt I think! James joined us for a drink after ordering some new bits for his bike. A great evening's ride, but very tough for some of us.

Reporters: Keith