london based triathlon club and coaching

London to Brighton ride Sunday 13 May

So folks it is the annual (erm isn't it the second? - yes but it is still annual) Windrush ride from Lido to Brighton beach next weekend.

Lee has done a great job organising the route and we will be setting off from Brockwell Lido at 9am sharp.

Now you are probably thinking it is a fair way to go - and that much is true but it is a surprisingly scenic route and I'm pretty certain that you would enjoy it.

Secondly you may be thinking they are going to be riding like crazy people and I won't be able to keep up - and that is not true.

Some people may go off fast but we are also organising a steady paced group so there is no need to worry about getting dropped. The steady group as we will be referring to ourselves will be aiming for a civilised day out which will involve a stop for cake along the way. And of course fish and chips at the end on the beach.

So as long as you have a serviceable bike, sensible clothes for the weather you'd be most welcome!

But if you are looking for a tough paced ride I'm sure you'll also have company at the front!

Thanks

Tony

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by claireS on May 8, 2012 at 22:51

Hello, I am intending coming on Sunday. I'll be with (or will be) the broom! ClaireS

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Permalink Reply by Lee Randle on May 9, 2012 at 14:16

Tony - I'm fairly sure we'll all be going at the same pace - after two weeks of burgers and conditions too hot for my poor body to train in I don't think i'll be haring off!

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Permalink Reply by Simon Frusher on May 10, 2012 at 11:23

Hi Tony-at a realistic pace-what time approx-do you think we'll be to Brighton?

Thanks

Simon

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Permalink Reply by Tony on May 10, 2012 at 11:33

Well it is about 60 miles with one biggish hill at Ditchling.

At a steady 15 mph that's about 4 hours - half an hour cake stop - and if we start at 9 we should be eating chips on the beach at 1.30.

Tony

Depends of course on weather which is beginning to look promising

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Permalink Reply by Oliver Jones on May 10, 2012 at 12:57

I thoroughly recommend the route to anyone who's thinking about it! There are a couple of drag-climbs on the way but nothing to worry about. Once out of London the roads are fairly quiet and if you have nice weather the scenery is lovely. As for Ditchling Beacon itself - yes it is a relatively tough climb - especially after 50 miles of riding but any fatigue you might be feeling is completely overshadowed by the views of the south downs. Easily the nicest climb in the south in terms of picturesque views and a real sense of achievement at the top.

If youre in two minds - I would suggest to do it.

Im at home in West Sussex on Sunday which about 5 mins from Ditchling so might join you for the end or else dress up as a devil and chase you up the beacon. "Allez Allez"

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Permalink Reply by Simon Frusher on May 10, 2012 at 16:56

Thanks Tony-looks like I've got 2 non Windrushers joining us too now

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Permalink Reply by Donne Nel on May 10, 2012 at 17:49

Hi Tony. Are there going to be two groups for this ride, or is it just the one? I am really keen to join a steady group, but have not ridden this distance for about 6 months. The most I have done this year is about 50km...and Ditchling Beacon may be too tough. Any advice?

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Permalink Reply by Tony on May 11, 2012 at 8:18

We're not planning for distinct groups yet - as it pretty much depends on who comes but I'm treating this more as a social fun day out and nobody is going to get dropped.

The weather forecast for the weekend is looking more promising but it would be a sensible precaution to bring a waterproof jacket. Also as we'll be cycling for four hours you'll need something to eat - flapjacks are a good energy source, fruit and nuts, etc and also some drink - energy drinks such as torq, high 5 etc do actually make a difference.

I wouldn't have thought you'd have a problem making it there to be honest and it's fun eating chips on the beach thinking you got there under your own steam.