OGIL ride 5th May 2021
Six of us assembled at Union Corner, all well insulated from the cold wind with the exception of Dean who seemed to think that wearing an old pair of shorts would be warmer. Still, as seems to be our way now we set off without really thinking about where we were going, other than to head to the Other Place, where we joined up with the four waiting there to form a quorum of ten to debate a suitable destination. With a fresh nor’westerly forecast, some voiced a preference for heading north, but it turned out that Jan had requested being told where to meet after she had had her root canal work done in Helston. Despite doubts that she would be in any fit state to cycle anywhere after dental torture we settled on Porthleven as a suitable watering hole.
We set off on the ‘normal’ route (as opposed to Fred’s route from Sunday – much appreciated though it was) through Porkellis, Releath and Nancegollan. At the fork just past the main road we split into two groups, one taking the left fork towards Breage and the other carrying straight on to Godolphin Cross. The purpose of the split was ostensibly to allow an option for those wanting a slightly shorter route with less climbing, but there seemed to be quite a few volunteers to ‘route find’ the short route. Nevertheless, we rejoined at the junction on the coast road at Trewithick (I’m not sure whether we coincidently arrived at the same time or whether the short route riders were waiting for us) and we all enjoyed a lovely wind-assisted dash into Porthleven. We headed for our favourite haunt of the Harbour View cafe, only to find that Jan had arrived shortly before us! There’s dedication for you. We ordered our food and drink, and were delighted that it arrived so quickly (Miss Molly’s take note). Phil3 was almost ecstatic at having his food and coffee in proper china rather than cardboard, and Jan only lost a little of her scrambled egg through not being in total control of her mouth (I’m referring to the effects of the anaesthetic).
We departed in good cheer, well fed and watered, to tackle the cobbles on the quay and then the climb out of the town. As usual we passed through Penrose, which was not particularly busy, and as far as I am aware there were no dog, baby or other incidents to report. Up through Helston, and just past the police station Amy was unlucky enough to unship her chain, but lucky enough to have the club mechanic in the form of Phil1 in attendance to make everything alright again. Everything, that is, except his lovely white gloves, now sporting contrasting grease stains. Who buys white gloves anyway other than society ladies??
Along muddy lane (now dusty/gritty lane) without incident, notwithstanding the staggeringly dangerous road surface that the council refuses to so anything about, despite the protests of the soon-to-be Green Party councillor (warning – you may have to disregard this last bit if you read this after the election results have been announced). On reaching Wendron school, for a change we took the main road and then turned right past the Poldark mine to Porkellis. This was by way of a sight-seeing trip to be able to admire Phil’s Bench, a new tourist attraction at the foot of Carnkie hill. Legend has it that Phil(3) was spotted reclining on this bench one day during lockdown, only to be seen in exactly the same place (and for all I know, position) three days later. What happened in the intervening period is fiercely argued even to this day, although I suppose we could just ask Phil.
After groveling up the hill, we continued and paused at one of our usual pause locations at Crane Garage, where traditionally we say farewell to those intending to carry on down the main road rather than head to Halvasso. Here we were rudely accosted by white van man in the shape of none other than Don, who claimed to have his bike in the back. When asked whether he could fit another six in he just laughed and drove off. So much for club solidarity.
And so we wended our respective ways home. A pleasant ride on familiar roads in the dry (although rather chilly) with good and varied company. 66Km for me.
I am off on my travels next week so will be unable to write a report – any volunteers to write in my stead would be appreciated, and if writing isn’t really your thing don’t worry – just follow the instructions here.
Cast: Amanda, Amy, Damien, Dean, Fred, Ian, Jan, John, Phils 1 & 3, your correspondent.