Cat & Bec
Posted on Monday 13 October 2008 by Nick Bloom
Strange weather day. I woke up late, too late even for coffee, and rushed out the door into a cold mist. Ended up early at Euston, so went to a Costa over the road, unfortunately just after an Italian coach party. Gave up - at least it was warmer in town. Surprisingly large group, 13 in all. Paul’s route basically took us along the Falling Leaves - including most of the climbs and a few long descents - so glad I dusted off the trusty Condor. As we go up, it gets very misty, but lower down sunny and warm. We were not far off time till we got almost to the Catford, where Charlie had a series of punctures - or one puncture with hiccups. A few of us decided to set off rather than miss everything - funnily enough, the finish is up a long climb. At the top, I bumped into someone I knew from the Rapha rides heading home. Stopped for a chat and lost the others. I saw another group of riders from the event, so headed off in the direction they came from. Long downhill, with car dangerously glued to my tail and nowhere to stop. Leading to bottom of climb. Back up, whining to myself. Join the rest and catch the last few riders. We found a pub in the nearest village, where I got a very mean
sandwich. Hunger headache sets in. Now surprisingly warm. Off through Westerham and up another climb to Titsey and the Bec. It’s a smaller event, and I prefer it. Same riders, but a nicer crowd. Instead of a gruesome burger van there were tea and cakes. Headache persists despite bread pudding. Most impressive was 13 year old on his first race who came 5th. Dad owns De Vere cycles and is ex-pro, so don’t be surprised to hear of Germaine Burton in the future. One guy had his wife waiting at the top with their great dane - he almost got knocked off by over-excited mutt congratulating him. Ride back to Purley almost entirely downhill and speedy. Thanks to Paul for efficiently keeping the group paced together and for arranging a fine outing.