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Monday 4th August 2008

Bikers,

La Ronde Picardie ahhhh...... memories of long rides in the sun in huge - I mean absolutely huge - pelotons of 100+ riders, all cruising along at steady 22...yeah 22 and you wonder how you're doing it, but you are........'cos you're a Glendene and you're fit!
Now is the time to book things up so here goes.

Event : La Ronde Picardie

Book your place through www.sportcommunication.com/GT/epreuve2.php?langue=1&trophee=55
The longest route is 187km There are shorter ones and I know Derek is doing the middle distance route.
Date : Saturday 13th September yes Saturday 13th.
Travel Friday 12th, Sea France ferry at 12.20, ride Saturday morning and drive back in the afternoon (your call on that one). Some may want to go back Sunday.
Hotel Ibis: phone number 0033-3 22248080. Twin room 68 Euros (£30/head) stay one night.
Manager Patrick Nicolle says they have a lot of rooms going, but they will go fast.

We will go for breakfast to get food in, but some take food with them for the morning.....rolls/ham/jam/bananas/orange juice/water/cereals/milk. A huge apple works wonders for me on the ride, it contains Boron, which a natural stimulant.....and juicy ....and tasty.
Most of us are coming back Saturday, as we did last year, so we can race the following morning.
The route can be seen on www.sportcommunication.com/GT/epreuve2.php?langue=1&trophee=55
There are three distances to choose from and I expect that most will take the medium and long distances. The event is huge and is easy riding for any Glendene rider who is comfortable on a Saturday morning. No serious hills (only one on the coast, but not wearing) big fields of riders - which makes keeping up the pace easier.
The finish is in a lovely village with fair ground, good pasta food party before we whizz back home. The route takes you across the Somme, a sobering moment, and if you keep you eyes out, you will see the German gun's positions near the coast. Ask Derek for info in this one...I was too busy pushing the pedals last time....but I will try this time.

IMPORTANT - you need a license. Crash hats are mandatory (Grand Trophy rules).

If you have any queries please give me a call. If anyone has a query on travelling, again call. There will be riders looking to share lifts/vehicles and with petrol costs so high, will rightly be looking to share vehicles and costs. Any large vehicles would be appreciated to take bikes, with cars taking riders.
We will summarize things nearer the time, as riders confirm their involvement.
I have spoken with Hotel Ibis and they say they have a number of rooms available - but move quickly.
There will be a gathering for dinner on the Friday night in a local and known restaurant, which fills up with bikers. So good chat is guaranteed.
So there it is !!!
We need to consider doing at least one long ride on a Saturday. We can perhaps look at Saturday 16th August for a good 80 miler, steady and if you're really serious, a 100 miler 2 weeks after that on say 30th August. John P and Brian can perhaps think about a route.

Cheers

Friday 20th June 2008

Bikers,

Saturday Rides are just growing all the time with minimum 20 every week and averages always in the 19's showing fitness levels are good. The split group are enjoying rides to Brett's etc on average 16-17's good comfortable speeds by any standards, safety has become an issue and I will raise this matter later. Distances are now in the 50-60's as the days warm up and legs get used to the work.

This Saturday is the longest day, and it was hoped that we could get maximum numbers out to break records. Let’s see what happens. Even with the large numbers racing the next day we still seek a great attendance. In a discussion with another rider non - Glendene (who will remain nameless) when asked about the Saturday ride said 'Glendene's run was probably the best run in Essex' ....impressive stuff.

The Brentwood Crits were a great success. So good, we even had some people ask if we wanted to organise other events in another town in Kent.....anyone want to do it?

North Weald always brings out 8-10 riders in colours and always in the bunch making our mark. This week it was Bob Downs' turn to take the break away of 8 riders whilst the rest held control in the peloton. At one moment we went into a three - man time trial break, but as expected, the group would not let that go without attention. But, for a moment, it is was bliss! Come on Glendene!

Dunton Thursday series is proving great opportunity for blooding new riders and we can welcome Elliott Ryan and Colin King into the team both holding good positions in the peloton. Mark Cooper is entering the world of sprinting with power in those pegs still untapped. Keith Gross stalwart of the team providing the foundation for everyone to stem from....rock on. Mark Meader has improved on both races and is as part of the peloton as anyone....and in only 6 months riding......next year....watch this space. Richie, who was out this week with work commitments, is now nominated principal lead out man due to his awesome power !! All looking good for the season, which is now half way through. oh yeah one point...... the max speed in the yesterday's race sprint.....37.7mph! wooohoooooo!!

The Time Trial series continues with the next one in 2 weeks....20+ riders makes good attendance. It will be interesting to see how we improve over last month....but remember, there are other factors that can affect results; like weather conditions, diet, and the usual daily pressures of work and families, so don't beat yourself up over it. It's your Time Trial, no one else’s.

New members keep arriving. Jason has joined us on the off-roading side which is showing continued growth. Thorndon and Danbury both taking the tyres of Glendene wheels....!!! Welcome Jason, we will review your bike when we see you on Tuesday.

Results are coming from all quarters but to be seen need to be sent to Bill for the web. You’re not showing off by doing it.....you’re letting everyone know where everyone is, and what's going on...so do it. (or those considered less safe)It’s a big club and we cover a lot of ground...

See on the Saturday for the longest day ride.

Monday 9th June 2008

Bikers,

What a great week.

Brentwood Crits enjoyed great weather, loads of spectators, and some great riding at all levels. Glendene were represented well with our Junior team displaying the power of Glendene pulling in first place with Jo Perrett winning after an early two man break and finally on his own to the line. Let's not forget however that Jo's effort was brilliantly supported by the other team riders in Joel, Nathan, and David who controlled the peloton, and held the riders back to stop the chase. Great team effort and a great display of the club's expertise.

The younger riders, Ollie, Jim and Josh did equally well in the Youth race but considering that they had just raced in Belgium the day before, it was no surprise that they had to work hard, and did so coming in at 4th and bunch finish. Well done guys great show!

The Weekend ride went out with 24 riders and completed a 56 miler at 19 average without anyone dropped !!. The final sprint which somehow always ends up with Mr. Downs steaming out ahead leaving us all unawares, was well attended!!.........Will some one please keep an eye on him in future? I'm too busy trying to break up the pace at the front to watch everything. In fact cutting the grass was what I was doing as I went off course into the borders......life was appearing in front of me as I tried to get out of the situation. We then went off for an extra 5 mile loop with Gerry and took a minute off his PB and that's after 60!

Paris - Roubaix Sportif was attended by Elliot and Colin and we wait for a report on the event when they get back.

Ventoux was attended by Justin this weekend and we await his report in the near future. There will almost certainly be a Ventoux group next year and you should put this in your diary if you are interested.

Marmotte - Paul Martin will be getting ready for the Marmotte along with Justin over the next few weeks and we wish them luck in this awesome event. This event takes place every year and it is truly the greatest of all the events on the Calendar.....Paul will hopefully get us a report afterwards to whet the taste buds....!

North Weald is going strong and Glendene are always in good attendance flying the flag.....great training for the weekend with high average speeds, speedy tactics and hey tea and cake after. Races start at 7.30 but be there for 6.45 to get ready.

Dunton Go - Rides are proving excellent training ground for our riders and the feed back from other clubs indicate that Glendene work really close as a team, working for each other, and so far results have been good. We're making money on the primes so far. Teams are starting to build up with Bishop Stortford, Southend Wheelers, Gateway CC and Maldon CC all grouping up to make quite an interesting situation develop. There are 5-6 more events through the season and we watch with interest the team of 8 riders of Richie B, Elliot, Colin, John P, Colin J, Mark M, me and Keith G are looking good for the season. The next ride is on Thursday 19th June at 7pm.

Time Trials have been very well attended with 20+ at both events. Weather has been good and times improving. A good indication of one’s fitness. and a totally different experience on a bike for many riders!!! Times can be seen on the web site if you are interested.

Committee Meeting will next be held on Wednesday 11th June. If there is anything you want to be said at the meeting please contact a committee member.

The web is the only way to go with news, as it comes out so fast each week. So make use of the web site - it's there for your benefit!
We cannot get information to riders unless riders feed the results back to the Committee. The club is big and riders are taking part in events all over the place (which is fantastic!) so do make sure you send results back to Bill at bill.williams@tesco.net,who can put the news on the web.

Barry

Saturday 17th May 2008

Riders

The Saturday ride saw a 40 miler with 19.1 average measured on the computer, which is impressive when you consider that a year ago its was only 16's and with a group of 24 which split into a 16/8 split shows how fitness levels continues to grow. There are some impressive riders now riding and we should welcome Elliott and Chris to the crew. Both have raced at North Weald and stood their ground throughout. The words 'strong as an ox' comes to mind. Riders like Graham P, Darren W are now there in terms of racing fitness and we can look forward to their racing with the team in the near future.They only have to break the barrier and move into the next level!!! Even John Ph. - looks like he's been training - holding his own on Saturday...good to see you fit John.
We reached 32 riders a couple of weeks ago, and it was proposed that we try to break records to celebrate the mid summer weekend and so on Saturday 21st June it is planned to have a Midsummer Ride, and would ask as many riders to attend as possible. We are confident we can break 50 and therefore ask everyone to put the date in their diary. The route and break point will be confirmed nearer the time. It should be fun, and a great way to celebrate the growth of the club. Do try to attend.
Sunday say Bob D, Colin M, Colin J, Keith G and myself ride the De Laune in Surrey over a 50 miler, and who ever wrote 'undulating' in the entry book should have had their legs checked out, as it was little bit more than that. I made the mistake of riding 60 the day before, and failed to tune the bike and so as a consequence, my chain came off at the bottom of the mountain, sorry hill, and was never able to get back on........three lessons there.............look after one’s bike........ prepare and rest for a race.....and be focused.
Thursday this week is racing at Dunton starting at 7pm for 4th CAT and novices. Good training and experience for those new to racing.
Tuesday sees North Weald racing at 7.30 with many of our riders racing, at all levels. There was a great showing last week from the Glendene, with club colours all over the peloton and up front on the final sprints.
Saturday see's the National Crit championship in Milton Keynes so good luck to the guys taking part.
Note that Alex D is taking part in the National 10 TT this weekend and we wait to see the results on this the most intense time trial distance.
The next time trial is in 2 weeks and it will be good to see what the weekend and Wednesday training sessions have made of each of us. The committee meeting has been moved to accommodate members so all can now take part.
See you racing

Saturday 2nd February 2008

Bikers,

28 riders were out on Saturday which was a brilliant turn out.At one point, turning round, I thought I was being followed (note 'followed') by a full road race peloton.It was an awesome sight and to Joe public must be a sight of wonder. Come on Glendene!
The setting up of the training ride and the steady ride is proving a success and provides riders the option to take it easy or push hard over the same routes and either stopping en route or at the finish in Blackmore. Long may it continue!

We must however send out some Apologies.

Apology 1 goes to Colin Jinks who was forced to take a natural break and understandably anticipated getting back on further up the road fully refreshed. No this did no happen, as the message did not get to the front of the group which measured some 200ft up the road. No-one at the front got the message to slow down and just kept going; so apologies to Colin as he ended up riding the majority of the ride alone.........not funny.
Apology 2 goes to the six Glendene riders Darren, Rob,Steve,Ray,John P and Mark who were caught at a T junction and hoped the message would get through having shouted out quite loudly of their predicament. Again the message did not get through to the front and the train kept going. Lets be clear, these guys ended up riding the same distance at a slightly faster speed than us, so it was not fitness that was the issue! Clearly a rider who saw the situation did not have the savvy to deal with it and get the message to the front. Its best assumed this guy was shy and over-powered by the situation, or am I being naive? again not funny.
One bright spark turned up without food and drink, with two layers of skimpy clothing as if it was July!! and we can only thank Darren for saving his bacon by lending kit. And inevitably he blew out, in spite of being offered food and drink by Bob D. - so what's that all about! Wake up that man, if you are in trouble accept help, it's best for everyone. We do apologise for not bringing you back and again no one saw the rider falling out the back. again......
Glendene is going from strength to strength with no indication of it abating, and this is a testament to us, the riders, the Committee, and the ethos we present to other riders, clubs and the general public. Lets take care of each other when we are out on the road, including those caught in a situation, those less strong, or sometimes silly, for even they will learn their lessons (we hope) and get into line. When a situation arises shout loud without fear of upset, for next time it could be you, and take my word for it, its not nice.......
My final line on this matter is for those who get caught short. When I want to check out a tree, and seems obvious I may have to wait, I find sitting further back on my saddle helps......do you know what I mean!
Apart from that, Saturday was a very good 60 miler at an average 16-17. strong head winds put paid to anything more, but good quality miles in the bank for spring.

Barry
04.02.08

Saturday 26th January 2008

Last week's average of 18mph was good considering the conditions and the punctures - the usual 3 - currently the average for a Saturday. The problem is that the ride is getting so efficient that we're doing the 45 miles and getting back by 12.30. So we should lengthen it and aim for a more controlled ride with a tighter pack. With February here, we will, as planned, look to start slow rotation of the peloton. This will give confidence to riders riding in close formation, spread the effort among all riders, and should raise the speed further without any extra effort. The route will be confirmed on the morning and I would ask John to consider this for Saturday. Teas will be at the end of the ride at Judies/Julies tea shop. Calling her Judie/Julie will not get you any favours and the prices will not come down!

Bob Downs’ Weekend

Bob Downs’ weekend has proved a great success with 32 riders staying out for the 2 days. Can you imagine what that will look like on the road! Like a locomotive all in blue and red!!!! Come on the Glendene!!! Well done to Bob, for organising what will be a great riding weekend and for the opportunity for the chat, food and a beer. Perfect team building and preparation for the racing season which will start a couple of weeks after.

BikeTrax

We had some great news on Wednesday on Biketrax. Peter Cleminson will be taking the helm running the Biketrax shop. Peter is really keen to provide support to all Glendene riders and recognises that there are other species than ‘off road’! Please give Peter every support in his endeavours to make BikeTrax the great shop front for Glendene Cycling Club. First impression is of his enthusiasm and loyalty to the club. We will give updates on developments in the Newsletter over the coming months. Well done Peter and Colin!

The new team kit is in!! and its awesome. New shoes, glasses and the lightest helmet on the planet, for that more 'complete' look. My stuff is already indoors waiting for that first race!

As the old saying goes..........racing is fine, but image is everything!

Barry
01.02.08

Saturday 5th January 2008

A good ride on Saturday with the first group completing the 45 at an average 18 mph (17.9) without any trouble, so the level is set and is an indication of fitness levels. Looks like a good year for racing and sportifs is on the cards.

Group 2 enjoyed a good steady 16+ on the same route to Blake End.Food was good and weather better than expected.

Well done to Rich who is still recovering from injury and still managed the first group without difficulty and good to see he's was in colours already, cheers Colin C for the quick fit out.

Next week's route will be detailed tomorrow and will be in the region of 45 miles steady 18's weather and contours allowing!

The Dinner Dance is looking good with the guest speaker organised. For those wondering, there will be at least two tables with DJ's and dressed up girlies to match. We must keep up standard you know! Speak to the other members on your table if you want to up the anti on dress code.

See you Saturday.

Barry
9.01.08

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