2015 Section Magazine

Discover a world of Freedom
With over 90 years of history and heritage to our
name, there isn't much we don't know about all
disciplines of cycling. Our roots are firmly set in
touring with club members having explored over
60 countries at the last count. Needless to say we
know the lanes of Lancashire, Yorkshire and
Cumbria like the backs of our hands - so our
weekly Sunday touring rides will take you to
places from your doorstep that you never knew
existed.
But that's not to say that's all we offer! If you join our
Saturday and mid-week training rides, you'll really be in
the company of some quality cyclists. Our racing
members are some of the best in the country with five
National Team Hill Climb victories to our name in the
past 11 years, numerous time trial victories at country
and national level and even an ex-national road race
champion on our membership list. Club members have
also participated in sportive events and our club rides
will certainly get you fit for these.
If the recent Team GB & Team Sky successes have inspired you to get out on your bike then contact
us now to discover a whole new world of fun, freedom and adventure. Riding in a group is easier
than riding on your own so come and give it a try and see where Blackburn and District CTC will take
you!
New Members
This Section welcomes anyone who would like to try out our various activities. These include regular
Saturday & Sunday club rides, Y.H.A. and camping weekends and a clubroom with a social
programme from September to April.
Prior membership of the C.T.C. is not essential for new members but it does provide £10m third party
insurance cover (which protects you on and off-road, including Sportives and Time trialling) and is
necessary for anyone participating in club competitions. Full membership should be taken out after a
trial period of approx. one month and prior to participating in any Y.H.A. trips, standard rides, time
trials and club competition events.
Riders under 16 may participate in club rides provided they are accompanied by an adult or have the
committee’s permission to ride with the club. All riders under 16 need to have their parent’s
permission before participating in any club activities. A disclaimer will be required by the committee
as proof of this. These can be obtained from the club secretary.
(Inside front cover)
2015
Editorial: Helen Dawson-Smith
Le Grand Départ
Well, yet another fantastic summer! It started early and finished late, just like a good “A” run
should.
The highlight of the worldwide cycling calendar came right to our doorsteps, and the people of
Britain really embraced “Le Tour”, making the 2014 race one to remember. One Grassington
farmer even sprayed his sheep yellow in honour of the great race!
The first stage started in Leeds and passed through the beautiful scenery of the Yorkshire
Dales to finish in Harrogate. Unfortunately, Britain’s Mark Cavendish crashed during the
sprint finish. The second stage started in York, over Blubberhouses and south to Keighley,
before heading off to Hebden Bridge and over the bleak moors to Sheffield.
The third day headed south from Cambridge to finish on the Mall in London. The weather was
kind for the three days, and only one Briton was out of the race by the time it left our shores.
(Chris Froome, one of the race favourites, crashed several times before retiring on stage 5.)
Our local boy, Sir Bradley wasn’t included in Sky’s team. Many of our members made their
way to watch some of the stage, and their photos are on pages 20 - 22.
The Yorkshire tour organisers have set the date for the 1st “Tour de Yorkshire” from 1st – 3rd
May 2015, a major new international cycle race, backed by British Cycling. There is also
going to be a “mass ride/sportive” for the likes of us, so make sure you get some training in
over winter. If it’s anything like the “sportive” that our own ex-Olympian Dave Cook writes
about on pages 13-18, then I will be watching it from a comfy bit of dry-stone wall!
Surely this surge of interest in British cycling has got everyone in the mood….if so; check out
the exciting centre-spread for details of the next few months’ club runs. Remember that many
people now turn back after a few miles, particularly those with children, so even if you didn’t
want to do the whole ride, there will be someone to ride with.
Several of our traditional “standard rides” are planned over the summer, including a 50km
ride on 19th April, especially for those with or without children who want a shorter easier
ride…and a certificate for doing it!
Steve and Anni Gregson have written about their fascinating trips to Ghana and Georgia, on
pages 7-8, 43-44 as well as some epic tales from days of old. Steve Hodgson has tempted
me to get over to Wales for some fantastic roads that he describes. Anne and Tony have also
made some great contributions (as ever), and Nick Dinsdale has kindly allowed us to reprint
some of this published articles.
Thanks to everyone who has put “pen to paper for this edition.
Remember that the annual Christmas YHA weekend and Christmas meal take place on 6th/7th
December, and the “Spud pie do / Prize Presentation” is on 29th January; see “What’s on” on
page 6.
The club room in Rishton has restarted for the winter months and we have already had
(almost) record numbers of people coming down for the slide shows. Please do continue to
come along and support the events which are listed in the “Social Programme” on page 26.
Page 1 of 48
BLACKBURN & DISTRICT CTC Member Group - Annual Report, 1st November 2013 –
31st October 2014.
NOVEMBER. Ken Hartley, our honorary club president, chaired the AGM once again,
despite imminent treatment in hospital. 18 members attended. The clubroom was well
supported for 2 picture shows – John Thorne’s Majorca (25 attendees) and the 90th
Anniversary Review (22 attendees). There were 3 new winners for the competitions
held this month. The 90th Birthday Treasure Hunt was won by Richard John, putting in
a late challenge for the Supertourist Competition. After 30 years of trying, Dave
Collinge won the Tourist Competition organised by his wife, Caroline. 10 members rode
the event, in which Ian Stott came 2nd and Richard 3rd, gaining more big points for the
Supertourist. Then Ian won the Freewheel and Richard was placed again, but it was
still not enough to stop Tony Stott from being the overall Supertourist, 2013.
DECEMBER. Ken was in hospital again for more treatment. Tony crashed at Arnside
and hurt his knee again. Ken Day returned to the clubroom after a month’s absence,
following his brother Jeffrey’s illness and funeral. John Fleming passed away, sadly at
Christmas. We last saw John at the 90th birthday celebrations, where he was still telling
inspiring stories about Bartali and Mark Cavendish. On a better note, Anne and Tony
presented “The Club Boundary” (18 attendees) and Richard did another amazing,
unmissable “Fun Quiz” (14 attendees). The Xmas Party (14 attendees) was a feast of
food and fun, a great Jacob’s Join and Anne’s charades. Nine members rode to
Malham for the Xmas YHA weekend, where they were joined by Sarah and Eva for her
first hostel trip. Jenny organised the Xmas dinner again at Waddington, attended by 22
members (minus two!). It was great to see our Swiss allies, Lucy and Neil Carta, and
Chris, Lynne, Daniel and Benjamin Edmondson over Christmas. At the New Year, Ian,
Jenny, Richard, Tara and Drew went skiing to the French Alps, while Anne and Tony
celebrated “hootenanny” with the Helliwells. New Year’s Eva - she stayed out with
Sarah and Carl, in Clayton, till the early hours!
The 2014 club magazine was a superb, bumper edition, compiled by Helen DawsonSmith, containing vital information about our club, quizzes, and articles by Sam Bidwell,
Steve Hodgson, Nick Mackey, Steve and Anni Gregson, Nick Dinsdale, Ian and Jenny,
Caroline, Richard, Anne and Tony. Well done, Helen, for a fantastic edition!
JANUARY. The first club night was amazing. Dave and Caroline showed cycling clips,
including a Tour de France 2014 promotional video of Yorkshire, and Kyle Dempster’s
extreme tour of Kyrgyzstan. As Kyle said in his video: “In this life, when you come to
the end of the road, will you keep pedalling?” Only 3 riders were on the first clubrun of
the year over Bowland Knotts – Mike Jay, Steve Hodgson and Nick Mackey. It was a
better turnout for the next ride to Rivington, 8 in all, including 3 new members –
Richard, Lorna and Graham. Then we had an amazing ride to Salford, National Cycle
Route 6 on old railways and a canal towpath. 7 members had lunch at Ringley, via
Clifton Lakes visitor centre. Meanwhile, back at the clubroom, there were some
inspiring nights and great attendances – 30 attendees for the “Coast to Coast” (Anne &
Tony), 22 attendees for Frank Whiteley’s “Extremes” and 34 attendees for the Prize
Evening where “Matador” Mike Jay was awarded the Rawcliffe Trophy.
Page 2 of 48
With great sadness we learnt that Frank Whitely suddenly passed away. Our
sympathies go out to Carol and her family, Bill and Rita. Jason and Stuart were top
riders in this club in the 1980’s and the 1990’s.
SPRING. There were more good slide and digital shows at the clubroom, including
Lakeland by Tom Melling, mystery pictures by Kenneth Day, Kilimanjaro by Mike Jay,
and Ayrshire and the Bonnie Clyde by Anne and Tony Stott. Tony also organised the
2014 “Robin Hood” Treasure Hunt round Rishton, won by Ian Stott - 10 members
entered including Matthew Smith (=3rd) and Eva Helliwell (=5th). We were still missing
Ken Hartley at the clubroom. One of the best clubruns in Spring was over Sulber Nick
and the Pennine Bridleway attended by 7 members. Paul Smith organised the 50 miles
within 5 hours once again (6 riders) and also a 50 kilometre family event (14 entered
from families Smith, Helliwell and Meredew plus Dave and Caroline). Just before the
Giro started in Belfast, Anne and Tony set off from home to ride to Dublin, Ballycastle,
Kintyre, Arran and Galloway – 4 countries, 6 ferries and 900 miles in 2 weeks. Dave
and Caroline went to Germany, river wandering along the Moselle and the Rhine.
SUMMER. The 3 other reliability rides were all held during the beautiful summer. Ian
Stott organised the 100 miles in 9 hours (14 riders including 7 from NLRC – Ian, Anne
and Tony Stott, Ian Donohoe, Mick Bradbury, Steve Hodgson and Nick Mackey from
Blackburn & District CTC, Roger Haydock, Steve Lawrenson, Steve Adair, Randal
Davies, Gary Kay, Dennis Baron and Joe Curran from NLRC). Carl Helliwell organised
the 200k in 12 hours (5 riders - Anne, Tony, Ian Donohoe, Steve Hodgson and Sarah).
Sarah was only going to ride to Kirkby Lonsdale, but she just kept going and going! Her
longest ride in the last 3 years was 50 miles before this event! Tony organised the 200
miles in 24 hours (3 riders). There are 2 Grand Slammers this year - Ian Donohoe (3rd
time) and Steve Hodgson (1st time). There were some great clubruns during the
summer, but the attendance has been dire. Steve Hodgson and Nick Mackey have
been the stalwarts of these rides, sometimes joined by Anne and Tony, Mick Bradbury
and Richard Broomhead. Top rides included Casterton Fell, Tunnel End, Ilkley, and
then Blackstone Edge to watch the Tour de France. What a summer! The weather was
outstanding, the best year in living memory, and there were yellow bikes and bunting
all over Yorkshire to celebrate the world’s greatest race. Our 2-up 10 was another
brilliant event, won by Steve Stoneman and Tony Greenhalgh (Omnipex) in 20.44. Our
own Ian Stott and Dave Ebbrell were 3rd in 21.20. Off first, Tony rode with Roger
Haydock, and was overjoyed to do a “24” off a recipe of touring miles. 33 teams
entered and Anne was well supported by our club. Dave Brown (NLRC) was
timekeeper once again despite just arriving back from holiday. Unfortunately, our other
regular timekeeper Geoff Tyrer (Preston Wheelers) was unable to come due to illness,
but he sent a great replacement in Gail Warren ably supported by Dave Oak (Ribble
Valley). Ian organized the Spoco once again, for 43 riders round Bashall Eaves, won
by Pete Williams (Haribo B) in a new event record of 24.32. Ian himself won the West
Pennine 25 on the Whalley by-pass in 56.05, and Tony came 5th in 1.1.07 in his first 25
for 12 years. Tony also did a 23 minute 10, again on Whalley by-pass. Dave and
Caroline went on tour to the French Alps, dipping into Switzerland and Italy. Steve
Hodgson went cycling in North Wales, riding nearly every road around Bala and
Snowdonia.
AUTUMN. Ian went on a tour of Switzerland visiting the Edmondsons in Neuchatel,
and the Carters in Chateau d’Oeux just before Michael Carter was born!
Congratulations to Lucy and Neil. The clubroom opened again and after a slow start,
attendance exploded for the picture shows. Superstars was won by Tony again, but
Page 3 of 48
guess who came 2nd despite making cups of tea for the club secretary all evening! Yes,
it was Sean Carus! 8 people entered, including our new recruit Dave Oak, who has
supported us every club night. I’ve already said that RJ’s quiz was amazing and
unmissable – well, Richard organised another one, and for the 10 people who came it
was just that once again. Attendance swelled into the 30’s for the picture shows, Anne
and Tony’s “Four Countries”, Richard’s “End to End”, Dave Collinge’s “Wild West USA”
and Steve and Barbara Thompson’s “Iceland”. The computerised Iceland show was the
first to be just prints scanned in. Thanks to Tom for always washing up. There have
been some great clubruns, as the long summer weather continued. Langstrathdale,
and a remarkable ride around Manchester were the highlights. Plus, we had our first
ever car-assisted clubrun. Nick, Steve, Anne and Tony met at Ingleton, and rode over
Barbondale, the back road down Dentdale to Sedbergh, Ravenstonedale, Kirkby
Stephen for lunch, then Mallerstang and Ribblehead back to Ingleton. Just ace. Only
Nick Mackey turned up for the Freewheel competition. Ian Donohoe is currently leading
the 2014 Supertourist competition with 4 events still to be decided.
This year there have been many big setbacks and much sadness, but the club has
been boosted by the return of an invigorated Ken Hartley, who has kept pedalling, plus
tremendous support at the clubroom and at our races. It is now, on the cusp of a new
year, that I hope the club will begin to boom again.
“In this life, when you come to the end of the road, will you keep pedalling?”
Kyle Dempster.
Page 4 of 48
News Snippets
Baby Michael Jonathan Carter (pictured right) was born to
Neil and Lucy on 9th September and weighed just over 8lbs
(3.6kilos). Lucy had a tough time during the birth, but all
the family are now doing well, and hoping to enjoy the
Swiss mountains this winter.
Tony Stott, our Club Secretary qualified
for free prescriptions, but no state
pension nor free bus pass yet…..but he
did celebrate his 60th with a party at Great
Harwood cricket club in July
(pictured left with all his ladies….and Ian!)
Tara Stott announced her engagement to Drew. They
got engaged at the top of Pendle Hill on Christmas
Day. (pictured right)
Also, Dave Ebbrell tied the knot to Rachel this
summer.
We wish both couples all the best!
It was great to see Ken Hartley in fine fettle at the AGM meeting early November, as he has
been quite unwell for some time. He has decided to step down as Chairperson after 15 years.
Thank you Ken, and great to see you back.
Freewheel results, November 2014
Nick Mackey was undisputed winner of the
freewheel
1st Nick Mackey
200 pts
nd
2 Tony Stott
150 pts
rd
3 Mick Bradbury
100 pts
th
4 Anne Stott (1st lady)
200 pts
Tourist Competition results, November
2014
1st Mick Jay
2nd Sylvia Jay
Thanks to the organisers of both
competitions.
The next club mag will be out next autumn. Please send any articles on anything including
holidays, equipment, races, jokes, quizzes, recipes, at any time during the year to
clubmag@blackburnanddistrictctc.org.uk. If you or someone you know would like to advertise
in the club magazine, then please contact us.
Page 5 of 48
What’s On?
Christmas YHA Weekend to Malham
Saturday 6th December – Sunday 7th December 2014.
£14 pp in dormitory accommodation.
See Dave Collinge for more details.
Christmas Meal at Bashall Barn, home of Bowland Brewery
Sunday 7th December 2014 at 2pm
2 courses £13.95 (coffee extra)
3 courses £15.95 (includes coffee and mince pies)
Order from the menu on the day.
For booking, contact Anne Stott 01254 232537 before 4th December.
Prize Presentation Evening at the Club Room
Thursday 29th January 2014, tickets £6.
Contact Anne 01254 232537 or Caroline 01200 445245 for details and tickets.
Monday rides
Monday rides got up to 5 riders with the good weather, increasing in length and severity, all
depending on the competence of the riders.
For example, one day over summer we rode over Marl Hill, Tatham Fell and returned via
Bowland Knotts, with a pleasant interlude at an old member`s home whilst we filled up our
water bottles on a hot day. We are mostly non-Sunday riding CTC members and start from
Wilpshire meeting 0915 for a 0930 start, taking a packed lunch along.
Please contact Steve Gregson on gregsosh@hotmail.co.uk or on 01254 812458 before
setting out, to check that the runs are on.
I can really vouch for these rides. I did a quick school run dash one Monday morning in
summer, then met Steve and a few of his friends at Wilpshire station. We followed a route
that Steve had planned on some tiny lanes around Chipping, and after a stop for a bite to eat
at Inglewhite, we were on more quiet lanes back towards home. We even managed to avoid
any A59 riding from Oaks Bar by taking a track that brought us out at Tiggi’s restaurant,
opposite Sacchary Lane.
We were home for just after 1pm, having discovered some new cycling roads, and with over
45 miles under our belts. Definitely recommended!
Helen Dawson-Smith
Page 6 of 48
Ghana
The first six days in Ghana were certainly out of our recent comfort zones. Savage heat,
loose tummies, heavy traffic near Accra, days with nothing more than biscuits to eat:
Leaving Accra on Jan 5th, the first ten miles on a cycle path at the side of a dual carriageway
lined with micro-businesses and the road rising at between 5 and 11% as far as Aburi, where
no proper food. 36 Celsius at mid-day.
6th Jan: Incessant village sprawls, ups and downs 5-10% all day, Anni hit on buttock by a
car mirror, but the driver at least stopped to apologise. Scrub, bushes and isolated trees. I
had been reading about the London-Edinburgh-London Audax and our days seemed to be so
similar, `ride-eat-ride-eat-sleep a bit-ride`.
7th Jan: A very dusty hard shoulder with lots of rumble strips, sleeping policemen, cacti on
roadside, hills to north and south. Again, 34 miles took all day, we are so slow.
8th Jan: Rolling road terrain with a final 11% hill to walk up. In addition, we cannot accurately
find out about ferry times across Lake Volta and how near we can stay if there is only the one
ferry at 10a.m.
9th Jan: We hear about a place to stay 20km from the ferry but no-one answers the door, so a
neighbour telephones someone. We continue but there is nowhere to stay just mud huts, no
food, a long way back to Mpraeso if we are isolated at the water’s edge. A big car arrives with
4 burly (but genuine) guys who invite us to return to their guest house. No thanks; we
continue downhill along a dusty wide road to the
ferry but one has just left however there are
some wooden open boats waiting for the last
four passengers, so in we go with our bicycles.
Nowhere half decent to stay on the other side,
so 15km in sapping heat but at least it’s flat. Plus
slash and burn roadsides keep us cosy! I think
it’s the second day eating only biscuits.
10th Jan: 39°C at mid-day. A sandy `piste`,
washboarding, loose stones and again the slash
and burn! Birdlife and bushes make for the
interest. However, it’s flat. In mid-afternoon, we
sat wearily on the road, fed up and whacked, but
at Donkorkrom we find a restful Guest House in a garden and decide we have earned a few
days rest. Ghanaians continue to be all friendly and cheerful. Longest day so far 38 miles.
Mosquito nets, pills, repellent creams are all vital and require daily patience.
Heading to the ferry across Lake Volta east side, traffic had become much less now but on a
sandy track I am still skidded into from behind by a motor-bike with an extra passenger
carrying a bowl of fruit on her head. I had been wobbling along too. No damage.
We then put in an extra loop eastwards to the coast near Togo and found, at Keta, a Guest
House by the beach with photogenic fishing boats/ men. On the way, 7 young men on side of
road hand loom weaving bright Kente strips, clickety click. Further on drummers, trance-like
dancers at some kind of religious or funeral event. In the lagoon, kingfishers, hornbills,
plovers, stilts, weaver birds. Dragoman Tours pass us, open windows, a really strong old bus.
Wonder if those adventurers are sorry or envious of us on 2 wheels?
Page 7 of 48
We continue on our `proper` holiday
alongside the turquoise Atlantic Ocean, the
sand and then the road, potholes connected
with sand of which most lands on our shins
and in the chains. Gosh we have brown legs!
Or sand covered!.
Cross the Volta Delta on an `engine boat`,
just for us `special` price! At one point, on a
lonely cul-de-sac along the coast, a Moslem
lady in Blackburn Rovers top! My home
town.
Eating improving too, octopus, lobster as well as
the ocean’s fish. Safer than chicken. Even a gin &
tonic one evening. Most days we are asked our
age, cries of `Grandma`,`Grandpa` as they call
folks who are past it.
West of Accra by now, we had decided to find
more Rough-Stuff Touring and also avoid the
main east west highway so turning west out of
the Kokrobite guest house’s gate onto a hard
sandy byway, this soon became a grass- centred track then a footpath, then just grass next to
the beach then onto the beach until an estuary which we waded across, fast flowing so we
gave 2 panniers to 2 young `porters`. The next day more dirt tracks but a nice hotel at the
end. Then a 3-day diversion to the interior enjoying the cocoa plantations, short hills and
hotels with colourful gardens where we ate our
evening meals. Plenty of cycle repair sheds,
wheel builders and even spare spokes.
Another route including a walk on the beach to
Elmina and a few days later to Besua after a
very steep headland track. Later a visit to a
slave fort bought by a Surrey farmer. A rest day
and then off again only to be halted by mild
threats of extortion/ protection money on
another track that left us further back than when
we started! Still, in February there have been
some lovely days touring near beaches, palm
trees and eating tasty, fresh fish.
What an experience at the frontier to the Ivory Coast , a long straight road that became full of
folk selling palm kernels, other fruit and veg, plus all manner of goods on both sides of the
road, exports/ imports from the Ivory Coast, trolleys moving in all directions and us trying to
make progress forwards. Tall herb/ medicine sellers from Niger and Benin. Eventually we
came to some closed gates and in the distance, a lagoon, perhaps 2km to the other side. The
Police, then Customs then Emigration let us pass but we were nervous in case of not being
let back in but in the end an officer took us to the edge of the Quay and we managed a photo.
Mangos and avocado for lunch.
Page 8 of 48
That was it, our tour nominally ended; we
turned our wheels for home. Just a couple of
hundred miles to Accra with us rolling along
in a big gear, hind-wind for the first time, and
breaking a lifelong taboo when we rode the
last kilometres to our guest house in pitch
darkness.
Yes, Ghana, ‘The White Man`s Grave’ had
certainly grown on us. The Atlantic Ocean,
the welcome by the lovely Ghanaians and
the hot, dry weather the real plusses.
Steve Gregson, Blackburn
The First Ever Car Assisted Club Run.
Sunday 14th September 2014.
70 miles.
The smell of freshly cooked bacon filtered through the morning air as Steve, Nick, Tony and I
stood outside Inglesport café, discussing our day’s route. We had all driven up early from
home to meet in Ingleton at 9am. Our rough plan was to go to Kirkby Stephen for lunch, and
then choose a route over to Hawes. I hadn’t ridden my bike much over the last 6 weeks and
my mouth gaped open when Steve suggested Barbondale.
“Yeaaahh”, I said enthusiastically punching the air with my fist.
From Cowan Bridge we took the back road,
which clings majestically to the side of
Casterton Fell, then up the lovely tempo
climb of Barbondale. We let it rip down the
descent into Dentdale, after braking for the
hairpin bends. Just turning the corner before
Gawthrop we came face to face with a herd
of cows. We skidded to a halt. With swishing
tails, mooing cautiously, and taking up every
inch of the road, they all passed us, apart
from two, a mother and big calf, who were
getting themselves into a right frenzy. In
fearful desperation, rather than pass us, they
headed up the banking, and from a standing
start, they jumped over the drystone wall that
was at the side of the road. It was very impressive.
Page 9 of 48
From Gawthrop, we took a new road for
us, the back road, by the River Dee into
the market town of Sedbergh. Here, the
annual sheep festival was on. There
were lots of sheep replicas, dressed in
all different attires, decorating the main
street. The one that tickled me the most,
was outside the Spar. She was dressed
in kinky black knee length boots, a mini
skirt, and fancy low top with big boobs,
bleached blonde hair, bright red lipstick
and matching handbag, Equipped with a
shopping trolley, all ready to go into the
Spar.
We followed the river Rawthey up Ravenstonedale between Baugh and Brant fell. Here I
pointed out to everyone England’s highest waterfall above ground, Cautley Spout. Its broken
cascades of water tumble 650feet down a cliff face from the high plateau of Calf Fell, the
highest point of the Howgill Fells.
Further up the dale a solitary man
was repairing the road. Tony
laughed “He was doing that when we
passed him on the 200 miles in
June.” At the junction of the A685
there was a road diversion sign,
saying the road down to Kirkby
Stephen was closed. As all
Blackburn cyclists do, we ignored it!
As we were dropping down the long
descent to the town, we could clearly
see the railway bridge was under
construction. There were lots of men
working and a massive crane taking
up the entire road. The lads stopped
and sighed,
“You go first Anne,” said Steve; “We’ll stand a better chance of getting through.”
“Yeah, I’ll use my womanly charms”, I saucily replied riding off.
As I rode up to the bridge and the swinging crane, a man drove up in a pickup truck, leant out
of the window and spoke to me, after which I turned round and waved the lads on forward.
When we arrived in Kirkby Stephen, Steve asked what he said to me.
“Oh” I replied laughing, “He said “You look fit. Can I take you out tonight?””
We had a discussion over lunch about the route back. After our initial enthusiasm to ride back
over Tan Hill, Birkdale and the Buttertubs we agreed the most realistic option was
Mallerstang.
Page 10 of 48
I love Mallerstang and its ruined
Pendragon castle with its romantic
Arthurian connections. It was founded
by the father of King Arthur, Uther
Pendragon. His army of 100 men were
killed here by the Saxon invaders who
poisoned their well. The road clings to
the railway, between the shoulders of
the bleak Wild Boar Fell and
Mallerstang Edge. It’s a delightful ride.
There’s more history further up the
dale, at the hamlet of Outhgill, where
the inventor Michael Faraday lived. He
invented electricity. Ironically this was
the last place in England to receive
electricity.
We turned into a roaring headwind at Garsdale Head. Then received the rewarding tailwind
all the way over Newby head to the finish at Ingleton. When Nick and Steve left us at
Ingleton, we brewed up with the stove we had in the car. We sat relaxing in the sun, sitting on
our fold-up Canada chairs, soaking in the view with new eyes. The river Greta, running below
the railway viaduct, Kingsdale and Ingleborough above. I wondered where the railway station
was, where it started and ended. It must have been an important place to have warranted
such a massive construction over the river Greta. We later discovered that it linked Clapham
to Tebay and was closed in1954. Ingleton! What a great holiday destination, mountains, river,
waterfalls, caves, and an outdoor swimming pool. It had me captivated.
The first assisted car run, I thought, “What a super ride we’d had today”, with views ranging
from the Lakeland hills to the North Yorkshire Moors. In the last soft throws of sunlight we
soaked in the scenic view, and felt like we were on holiday.
Anne Stott.
Page 11 of 48
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Page 12 of 48
Grand Ballon by Dave Cook
(Altitude, map and podium images courtesy of the vosgienne.org website)
I am currently undertaking a work secondment in Munich. Naturally as a man with no car and
a couple of bikes I am becoming increasingly familiar with the generally very efficient and bike
friendly German train network. With the help of this network, my ‘zone of coverage’ has
gradually expanded to the extent that instead of undertaking a 3 to 4 hour Saturday ride in the
Munich area (usually fuelled en-route by Kaffee und Käsekuchen in Macdonalds ‘MaCafe’…
(are there any MaCafe’s in the UK ?), on one particular Saturday evening I was riding through
the Douanes (border control) in Basel - passing from Switzerland into the French Alsace
region. The plan was to ride over the Grand Ballon d’Alsace – the highest peak (1,424m) and
road (1,325m) in the Vosges Mountains.
The full blame for this little adventure goes to the panoramic poster I have of the entire Alpine
range hanging on my bedroom wall... yeah – I know you can do what you want when you’re a
Bachelor! Anyway, Basel didn't seem too far away from Munich - not whilst looking at the
map whilst sitting in bed at least…in reality it was a 6 hour train journey away - albeit broken
up with a little stop-over at Lake Constance. After an hour or so riding around Basel (nice
city!) eventually finding a hotel near the airport, consuming steak tartare and chips (yes, vile I
know but when in Rome… or Basel...), washing out my shorts (not as a result of the evening
meal I would like to add) etc, I was ready to meet the challenge the following day – or so I
thought...
Sunday morning: dull, grey and wet! This is in the lowlands of the Rhine Valley. Heaven
knows what the weather would be like at 1,300 metres. Undeterred (for the moment at least),
I set off and head north – direction Mulhouse and the Vosges. After having a wonderful
(mmm... replace ‘wonderful’ with ‘stressful’) time negotiating the city of Mulhouse and not
being able to see anything at all of the mountains despite these only being 15kms in front of
me (well according to the map at least), I decided a short cut may be required. This was not
just as a result of the low hanging ultra thick cloud but I did have the small constraint of
having to catch a 3.00pm train to get back to Bavaria. So an executive decision was made...
the Col du Hundstruck was going to have to do instead of the Grand Ballon. As it turned out,
this was a nice little Col... only 350 metres or so height gain over 7 kms, steady gradient, a
multitude of bends and hairpins and pretty much all in thick pine forest (welcome to the
Vosges!). Anyway to cut a long introduction short – I had reached the Vosges but only really
to the foothills... on the train back to Munich I convinced myself I needed more... much more!
Hence... the following week at work (as you do) saw me planning my second excursion to the
Vosges. This was not going to be some small manoeuvre this time... oh no! This was going to
be nothing less than a full scale invasion of pretty much the entire Vosges Massif. I duly
entered ‘La Vosgienne Cyclosportive’. A 160km route crossing the Col de Hundstruck (the
previous reconnaissance work would come in useful), the Petit Ballon d’Alsace and two more
Cols before the three quarter point of the event was reached manifesting in a ride along
scenic Route des Cretes plateau. The final quarter consisted of a descent off the plateau from
the Markstein Mountain and then a small loop around into effectively the Rhine Valley before
tackling the eastern approaches of the Grand Ballon via the Col Amic and then final descent
to finish at the start point in the town of Thann – not too far from Mulhouse. Total height gain
was declared as 3,500 metres.
Page 13 of 48
Fast forward to 8.15am on
Sunday 7th September: here I
am tackling the Col du
Hundstruck. This time in the
midst of 1000 riders with a
thing called a helmet
generating beads of sweat
down my brow. And this time
the weather was good. A little
bit of cloud but otherwise blue
sky. I was surely going to get
much sweatier before the
event was over. Anyway, no
staggered start times for riders
here... this is France (and I
dare say anywhere else on the Continent), no matter how many punters have entered,
everybody starts together (and incidentally, that includes the grandmother who got mixed up
with the event on the way to buy 2 baguettes!) Using my knowledge of the Col to the best of
my advantage I managed to duck and dive up to the first 20 riders by the top of the climb and
even had time to mentally prepare myself for the descent which quite honestly was not for the
faint hearted (which unfortunately I am!)
Mon Dieu – thank goodness I was at the head of the pack for this descent, as twisty as any
helter skelter in Macdonalds children’s play area (apologies for another reference to the
American fast food outlet ... I confirm I do not have a part time job there – honestly!).
Needless to say, due to ‘faint-heartedness’, my position in the pack was not quite as
advantageous at the bottom of the descent compared to the top. As far as I was aware there
was not a total road closure in place for the event consequently I couldn't help but wonder if
any of the chaps using the full width of the road ever think “Now what’s going to happen if any
vehicle bigger than a Citroen 2CV is tootling along in the opposite direction?” I mention the
2CV because whilst in Germany I was fortunate enough to collide head-on into one of these
vehicles. Fortunate because anything larger and I would not have been hobbling away with a
bruised leg and a dented bike frame! The poor 2CV had to be taken to the knacker’s yard
though (seriously).
It was good to know at least that the tub glue bonding my well matured Clement ParisRoubaix tyres to the rims appeared to be still doing its job!
There was a general slowing in the valley after the Hundstruck which allowed another
regrouping of riders (including me :) ) before the next obstacle – the Little Ballon (and little it is
not). I was never one for ‘frotter’ as the French say (or ‘rubbing elbows’). More literally, I
believe this refers to the ability (or lack of it in my case) to not care about your front wheel
disappearing up somebody’s backside as you try your utmost to stay somewhere near the
front of the pack. A serious amount of ducking and diving was again required to get me back
to the leading 20 riders or so. Add the word wheezing as well because, well, let’s just say old
age and lack of race preparation do have a habit of creating a heavy breathing effect. I use
the word ‘race’ in case anyone has been fooled by the relatively benign term ‘Cyclosportive’.
Please don’t think of a group of cyclists riding two abreast, with a little bit of half-wheeling
going on – this was a full on Belgium Classic scenario, full width of the road, pavement at
times, knocking car wing mirrors and scaring the hell out of other road users, rider pack. I
think a revised name of ‘Championnats du Monde dans les Vosges’ may have been more
appropriate.
As the gradient on the Ballon steepened though, naturally the field began to spread out. I was
Page 14 of 48
too preoccupied trying to hold the wheel in front of me to look back down the road but
inevitably there must have been a line of cyclists spreading all the way back down to the
valley and beyond. The elastic at the front was gradually becoming taut... very taut. At about
5kms from the top it snapped... as a result there were about 8 riders in the first group, about
4 in the next and then me and 2 others just behind. To give you an indication of just how
much I was on the limit, as we came off the old Ballon road leading up from the town of
Sewen and back onto the main road near the top, the gradient raised a little and I found
myself wanting to change down a gear, only.... I looked down and saw I was already in the 25
sprocket! “Jeez – have my legs gone or what?! I’m already in the 25!” Then I realised I was
still in the 53 ring! Heck did I feel embarrassed, my dad always told me never to put the chain
under that much lateral stress! (Sorry Dad.)
The three leading groups merged going over the summit to form a lead group 15 men strong.
The Little Ballon isn’t a straight over and down kind of hill. The road runs along a plateau for a
couple of kilometres. Being pretty much a tourist these days, my eyes began to wander… I
spotted a nice looking Restaurant / Cafe and made a mental note for the future - under less
stressful circumstances this would be a good place to lunch. I also caught a glimpse of the
memorial stone to Rene Pottier, who, as everybody knows of course (J), was the first rider to
get to the top of a mountain in the Tour de France (the Ballon d'Alsace was the
first mountain introduced in the Tour de France in 1905). I did wonder if he had suffered as
much as I had just done! I also had time to realise just how hairy my legs were! This was in
complete contrast to everybody else of course who were all displaying the fruits of at least an
hour’s labour with the razor. Putting me to one side, it must have looked a very professional
front group. I imagine I was quite a disappointment to my fellow riders.
After thinking about food, the Tour de France, hairy legs and God knows what else, I realised
that I had better prepare myself for what was inevitably going to be another hair-raising
descent…
I got myself into a reasonable position - in the middle of the group. By the time we had done 4
or 5 hairpins I was well and truly at the back of what was now a fully stretched line of cyclists.
The lead men were literally sprinting out of every bend and if you have ever ridden a tight
circuit race before you can imagine what that does to the people at the back of the line...
severe whiplash nicely sums up the experience! Just how worrying is it when you look down
at the hairpin in front of you and watch the lead riders straining on the biggest gear they have
got knowing that you are still freewheeling and have got to go round the apex of the bend at a
silly speed before can you begin sprinting yourself to try and hold that wheel in front of you!
This riding downhill lark was every bit as challenging as going up the damned hills! Needless
to say I found myself in No-Mans Land (in other words, riding by myself) at the bottom of the
hill. However this was soon rectified through a couple of kilometres of blatant drafting behind
the service car. I remember the expression on faces as I popped back into the group again…
very much an incredulous “Non! Zeez damned foreigner with the ‘airy legs, eze weez us
again!”
We had probably been riding now for one and a half hours. Being a bit of a mileage man I
was now beginning to feel warmed up and other than the mental stress of trying to stay alive
on the descents, generally not feeling too bad. On the next climb of the Col d’Oderen which
kicked up quite steeply right from the start, we started shedding riders until there was 10 of us
left in the front. What was becoming rather annoying was the contents of my rather bulky rear
pockets i.e. my wallet, mobile phone, car keys, pump and (of course) jam sandwiches,
causing my whole jersey to oscillate wildly when climbing out of the saddle. Again I could
Page 15 of 48
sense my fellow competitors thinking “Mon Dieu... he eze still 'ere ! Lets get rid of zeez
espece d’idiot before he knocks us all off our bikes!”
The summit came and went and as sure as eggs is eggs I went off the back again on what
was this time a very narrow and bumpy descent (in other words I had no chance whatsoever
in staying on!) This time the race cars came past me at about 200kms per hour. I assume
they too had had enough of watching my pitiful descending ability by now. I was trying my
best to keep within a reasonable distance of the leaders but I knew this was a totally lost
cause when the route left a small town and the valley road stretched out straight in front of
me for what was probably a kilometre: I think I could just about make out the back-end of an
official race car in the distance. I had probably lost about one minute to the leaders on a 8km
descent! Nibali would have been proud of me! Consequently I faced a very lonely 10kms ride
to the next Col (de Bramont). The climb twisted up through what appeared to be an ever
increasingly thick pine forest to the Route des Cretes – or the ‘Summit Drive’ as a rough
translation. The Route des Cretes runs for about 10kms along the top of the eastern half of
the Vosges mountains. Not that I was looking at the scenery of course but it is a beautiful
scenic road. The pine forest disappears and you are surrounded by green meadows and this
is at an altitude of around 1200 metres. The most southerly point of the road is the Grand
Ballon d’Alsace. The Restaurant Self-Service located there is not called the ‘La Vue des
Alpes’ for nothing. Apparently on a fine day, you can see as far as 120kms from the radar
station visitor viewing platform on top of the Grand Ballon.
Figure 1: Road from Kruth to Thann marks shorter route. Ballon D'Alsace is on larger route only
I realised at this point that I appeared to be possibly spending more time sight-seeing than
thinking about pushing on the pedals. Thankfully two riders who had been dropped on the Col
d’Oderen caught me and brought me back to my senses. Actually if truth be told they actually
flew past me making very light work of the strong headwind and I had to make another nose
of the saddle sprint to get onto the back of them. Unsociable sods! Since I was spending
more time behind them than in front of them, I soon worked out one chap was a Belgian
riding for a Brussels club, the other a German sporting (honestly) a little bit of well trimmed
facial hair - almost like a more infamous ancestor of his. He was also riding very much in a
Page 16 of 48
Jan Ulrich style - i.e. pushing a massive gear. I am convinced he must have been using a 56
tooth chain ring. He would have been very much at home on the A6. Anyway as I was doing
everything I could to tuck-in to their slipstream and trying to avoid doing any turns whatsoever
on the front, I realised I was beginning to feel rather thirsty. I guess we had covered
somewhere in the region of 100kms by now and my 2 bottles had long since been consumed.
Just as I was thinking, ‘to make things a really enjoyable day, I am probably going to get
cramp now! I spotted someone looking like a team manager at the side of the road with a big
crate of spare bidons.... “Monsieur, je peux!?” I spluttered and was duly rewarded with a fresh
bidon! Wow, I felt like I was back in my racing days again only... we were soon going to
commence the next descent - down the Markstein Mountain to the town of Guebwiller. “Can I
avoid being blastered away as on the 3 previous descents?!” I asked myself. I was going to
have to seriously psyche myself up for this one. Just then it occurred to me that we were
pretty much in the area where Contador had fallen and broken his tibia in the Tour. Great!
So a left turn at the Markstein ski station heralded the start of the “Round 4 Test of Cook’s
Descending Skills”. I was focusing like I had never focused before on the German rider’s back
wheel and trying to keep the gap as small as possible. The Belgian guy was sitting on my
back wheel... presumably he hadn’t previously observed my descending style! I am assuming
there was some historical reason or desire for Herr Ulrich to put the English competitor in as
much difficulty as possible… he just couldn’t resist sprinting hard out of every bend – and I
mean really accelerating: out of the saddle and lunging furiously as if he was in the final 200
metres. Needless to say, this action was having more than a minor impact behind… I was
literally going cross eyed as a result of making the corresponding counter effort to try and
keep any where near him. The end of the descent couldn’t come soon enough! I will pick a
fight with anyone who’s says going downhill is easy! I had done it though - we were all still
together!
A relatively flat section of the route now ensued as we passed through the town of
Guebwiller. The civilian motorbike outrider gave us as much protection as he could as we
negotiated our way through the streets… thankfully no Sunday opening yet at least so the
roads were reasonably quiet - but it’s probably only a matter of time before a Tesco or
Morrisons opens up. Having said this, as we were at the 130km point by now with 4 cols in
the legs and still one to go, if a Morrisons had been open, I could have been easily persuaded
to pop into the café for a quick pot of tea and fresh egg mayonnaise & cucumber sandwich!
(Yeah it’s my favourite – and I normally turn up after 7.00pm when all the leftover sandwiches
are at a reduced price - joke J).
The final col of the day was the Col Amic. From the town of Guebwiller, this is a climb on a
narrow quiet back road, naturally in the middle of a pine forest, with a steady gradient
providing a total height gain of something like 600m over 10kms. You can continue to climb
up to the Grand Ballon from the top of the Col Amic – which essentially takes you up one half
of the Grand Ballon Mountain. I am ashamed to admit that at this stage I was damned
pleased we didn't have to climb all the way to the top of this mountain..! Despite the Amic
only constituing 50% of the total Grand Ballon climb, the fact that 4 cols had already been
covered does tend to have a somewhat non-negligible effect on just how hard any
subsequent hill actually feels! Furthermore the temperature was probably now in the mid
twenties centigrade and the contents of the courtesy bidon had long since vanished… yeah, I
was gasping for a brew again. Luckily a Godsend arrived by way of an official feeding station
at the foot of the climb. However, the question now arose of how do I stop, get a drink and
scoff a bit of cake without totally losing sight of my companions and avoid having to chase
like a nutter to get back? Panic over – the Belgian chap suddenly yells ‘Hey, we all stop OK!’
For a very brief moment I thought should I attempt a bit of kidology with a reply along the
Page 17 of 48
lines of “Well, I do really want to continue old chap but being an Englishman, I am one for fairplay so I will stop with you”. Instead I heard myself blurting ‘Thank **** for that’. Jan also
agreed to the truce and I duly plunged my empty bottle in a big ready mixed bucket of energy
drink! What kind it was – I didn’t care in the slightest! In fact it could have probably been
antifreeze and I probably would have drunk it all the same...! I just wish I hadn’t submerged
my trackmitts in the substance at the same time! So, in addition to contaminating the contents
of the bucket for the next rider, I now had the enjoyable experience of riding this final col with
soaking mitts spreading sweet, sticky electrolyte drink all over my handlebars, brake levels
and face (as I tried to wipe the copious amounts of snot from my nose!) To be honest I was
well past caring about the niceties of what I looked like at this point. I am sure there must
have been at least one family somewhere in the Alsace Region that evening absolutely bent
over double in hysterics after watching me ride past on their homemade video footage of the
event, mixing the style of Michel Pollentier (look him up on U-Tube if you don’t know him –
1978 Tour de France) with Lee Evans as I desperately tried to stay in contact with a mad
German and a Belgian cyclist.
So I clawed my way over the Amic and we even passed a rider who had been spat out the
lead group. By my calculations there were now 8 riders ahead
of us (probably a large number of minutes ahead of us – but
that’s not important). 11th place is not bad for an old fart I told
myself. Yes – I was under absolutely no illusion whatsoever
that I was ever going to beat Jan and the Belgian in the final
sprint. Other than a nasty little click up to the 1st World War
Memorial at le Vieil Armand, it was all downhill (!) now to the
town of Cernay and then a flat 6km run-in to the finish.
Obviously though I couldn’t relax just yet. We still had this final
downhill section to go! It was pretty much an identical
experience to the previous descent i.e. cross-eyed sprinting
out of every hairpin. The ferocity of the sprinting was
beginning to annoy me now – the more Jan continued to
sprint, the more I was determined to keep him close in my gun
sights! It was like the Battle of Britain all over again (...only we
were in France of course). If nothing else my descending skills
had certainly improved over the course of the 160km route. It’s very doubtful I will maintain
these skills for a future cyclosportive (whenever that may be) so if anyone wants to put me to
the test whilst I still have this experience in my DNA, please let me know and I’ll meet you on
top of Waddington Fell for the dual! I’m sure I’d lose, but it’s a question of how much I will
lose by - I am confident it will be less than prior to completing this cyclosportive!
I finished in 11th position overall in the event J. We were something like 8 minutes down on
the winner – who incidentally was a 40 year old! So any thoughts I had of standing up on the
top spot of the Veterans podium turned out to be fruitless. This chap was over six foot tall as
well and the guy who finished third Vet didn’t wait for the little prize ceremony. Hence the
photograph of us two on the podium looks like something out of Jack and the Bean Stalk or
something, with this giant stalk of a man looking down at me and trying to shake my hand!
The post race meal of pasta and pork and a slice of apple tart was great… but there again, I
suppose most things taste good after 5 hours of riding up and down (medium sized)
mountains! Despite the physical and mental suffering I endured (isn't that why we do these
things anyway? :)), I really enjoyed the event and I can recommend La Vosgienne Cyclo to
anyone. Check out the website at vosgienne.org. There is a shorter course of 100kms as
well. Note – the event is only organized every 2 years – so next event should be September
2016. Put a note in your diary… that is assuming you have a 2016 diary of course.
Page 18 of 48
Page 19 of 48
Tour de France, 2014.
As mentioned in the Editorial, the response by the
English public to the Tour de France’s July visit
was outstanding. No-one dared to believe how the
English would embrace the race as it crossed
through some of their counties, most notably
Yorkshire.
Several of our members made individual or family
trips to view the fantastic spectacle as well as a club run to the top of Crag Vale (between
Hebden Bridge and Littleborough).
Here are a few shots of
the events including
pictures of the incredible
effort that people had put
into decorating their
premises for the event.
Mural on Haworth
main street. (Anne
Stott)
Page 20 of 48
Breakaway group with
“veteran” Jens Voigt in the
centre, riding up Wharfedale
on Stage 1, Leeds to
Harrogate.
(Helen Dawson-Smith)
Team Omega Pharma
Quickstep, with Mark
Cavendish 3rd from right (just
hours before he crashed out
of the Tour) riding up
Wharfedale on Stage 1,
Leeds to Harrogate.
(Helen Dawson-Smith)
Page 21 of 48
Very un-bike-friendly
bike policy, only
allowing 2 bikes per
train!!! The last
sentence “Get there
quicker – avoid
bringing your bike
where you can” just
sums up this country’s
public transport
system.
Maybe all the Guard’s
vans have been sold
to other European
countries that actually
use them!
(Helen DawsonSmith)
Packed “fan park” at
Hebden Bridge
watching the events
unfold on the big
screen.
(Helen DawsonSmith)
Helen Dawson-Smith
Page 22 of 48
DIARY DATES 2015
* All of these events count towards The Super Tourist Competition.
Look out for hostel weekends on the club room notice board, or see Dave Collinge for
information.
Thursday 8th January
Signing on for racing and touring events, Club Room.
Thursday 29th January
Prize Presentation Evening, Club Room
Thursday 19th March
Last Club room before summer break
Sunday 19th April
*50 Miles or *50km in 5 hours. Meet WBS 9.am
Sunday 17th May
*100 Miles in 9 hours. Meet WBS 9.am
Thursday 21st May
2up Team Time Trial
Wednesday 10th June
Spoco Event, Bashall Eaves
Sunday 14th June
*200km in 12 hours. Meet WBS 8.am
Saturday 27th June
*200miles in 24 hours Meet WBS 5am
Wednesday 19th August
*Club Hill Climb, Close Brow 7.pm.
Sunday 6th September
*Beard Cup Hill Climb
Thursday 1st October
*Club Room opens for winter with Superstars competition
Sunday 1st November
*Treasure Hunt and Freewheeler. Meet WBS 9.30.am
Thursday 5th November
Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Saturday 5th December
Christmas Youth Hostel weekend
Sunday 6th December
Christmas Dinner
Thursday 17th December
Christmas party at Club Room
* Event count towards the Super Tourist Competition.
Entry fee for the Super Tourist events are £5 in advance (for them all) or £2 on the day for each event
Page 23 of 48
Date
04/01/2015
11/01/2015
18/01/2015
25/01/2015
01/02/2015
08/02/2015
15/02/2015
22/02/2015
01/03/2015
08/03/2015
15/03/2015
22/03/2015
29/03/2015
Destination
Trough of Bowland
Hunter Bark
White Coppice
Barden Tower
Cockersands Abbey
Bowland Knotts
Ribble Estuary
{Half Term 1st weekend}
Druid's Altar, Bordley
{Half Term 2nd weekend}
Cold Edge
Ribblehead
Salford Quays
{Mothering Sunday 2015}
Darnbrook Fell
Tatham Fell
{British Summer Time starts 2015}
Meet
Leaving
Time
Lunch
Tea
WBS
WBS
BR
WBS
RCP
WBS
09:30
09:30
09:30
09:30
09:30
09:30
Scorton
Feizor
Brinscall
Burnsall
Café d'Lune
Clapham
Approx
Distance
(miles)
60
55
40
55
60
60
BR
09:30
Blackleach
50
WBS
09:30
Airton
60
WBS
WBS
09:30
09:30
Hebden Bridge
Ingleton
Stanbury
Waddington
65
70
ATH
09:30
Salford
Belmont
70
WBS
09:30
Grassington
Settle
70
WBS
09:30
Ingleton
Slaidburn
65
NB: Riders are reminded that it is advisable to carry maps – even the more experienced members of the club sometimes encounter route finding
problems when club runs visit infrequently visited destinations.
Key:
WBS => Whalley Bus Station, RCP => Ribchester Car Park, BR => Brownhill Roundabout/Traffic Lights, ATH => Accrington Town Hall
NB: All rides will LEAVE at the time stated. Please meet 15 minutes earlier, to allow for mechanical or other problems.
Page 24 of 48
Date
05/04/2015
12/04/2015
19/04/2015
26/04/2015
03/05/2015
10/05/2015
17/05/2015
24/05/2015
31/05/2015
07/06/2015
14/06/2015
21/06/2015
27/06/2015
28/06/2015
05/07/2015
Destination
The Great Sea Wall
{Easter Sunday}
Appletreewick
50 miles or 50km within 5 hours Std Ride
Littledale
Tunnel End
{May Day Bank Holiday Weekend}
Keer Valley
100 miles in 9 hours Standard Ride
North Wirral Cycleway (Car Assisted)
{Spring Bank Holiday Weekend}
Low Gill
Snowdon Crags
200km in 12 hours
Shaking Moss
{Father's Day 2015}
200 miles in 24 hours
Austwick
Last of the Summer Wine Country
Meet
Leaving
Time
Lunch
RCP
09:00
Knott End
Cobble Hey
70
WBS
WBS
RCP
09:00
09:45
09:00
Storiths
Settle
Wray
Gargrave
Waddington (Finish)
Gardenmakers
70
50
75
ATH
09:00
Marsden
Hebden Bridge
80
RCP
WBS
09:00
09:00
Feizor
Settle
90
100
WBS
09:00
WBS
08:00
WBS
08:00
Silverdale
Dent
Ormskirk Railway
Station
Ingleton
Stump Cross Tea
Room
Staveley
WBS
08:00
Sedbergh
WBS
WBS
ATH
05:00
09:30
08:00
Feizor
Dobcross
09:00
Tea
Approx
Distance
(miles)
80
Dunsop Bridge
75
Embsay
85
Scorton
125
Horton In Ribblesdale
100
Hebden Bridge
200
50
85
* Events count towards the Super Tourist Competition. Look out for further details on the club website.
NB: Riders are reminded that it is advisable to carry maps – even the more experienced members of the club sometimes encounter route finding
problems when club runs visit infrequently visited destinations.
Key:
WBS => Whalley Bus Station, RCP => Ribchester Car Park, BR => Brownhill Roundabout/Traffic Lights, ATH => Accrington Town Hall
NB: All rides will LEAVE at the time stated. Please meet 15 minutes earlier, to allow for mechanical or other problems.
Page 25 of 48
Blackburn & District CTC
Club Room Dates - Social Programme 2015
Primetime Centre: Norden School, Stourton St, Rishton, Lancashire.
Thursdays between 7:30pm and 9:30pm, entry subs £1
The Clubroom is an integral part of our club. It serves as a meeting place during the winter months
with various activities. Please support your clubroom, especially the events where people have put
themselves out to organise something (slide shows, superstars, quizzes etc.). We also have access
to a table tennis table and brews are readily available…. (Ken Day and Tom Melling will always be on
hand to wash up), and you can catch up on all the latest gossip and stories from club members.
PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR CLUB ROOM OR WE WILL LOSE IT!
EVERYONE WELCOME ANYTIME.
December
4 th Blast from the Past
11 th Print and Digital Competitions
18 th Christmas Party. Bring some food and a party spirit.
Club room is closed after tonight until January 8th 2015.
Phil Hacking.
Anne Stott.
2015 - January
Happy New Year Everyone!
8th Unbelievable Stunts: Cycling videos.
Caroline and Dave Collinge.
Signing on night for club events and race membership.
th
15
“We’re just going out to play, Mum”.
Anne Nicholson &
South America, India, and Asia
Neil Stirling.
nd
22
Early Burns Night.
Anne & Tony Stott.
A tribute to Robbie Burns, (don’t forget to wear your kilt)
th
29
Potato Pie Prize Presentation Evening: 7pm start
Tickets £6 from Anne Stott or Caroline Collinge
Anne & Caroline.
February.
5th
A Ken Day Special and Members’ Miscellany
th
12
Up the Hidden Valley. Part 1 (Slides / talk)
Pendle Witches
th
19
Club Room Closed For Half Term.
th
26
Tour de France Gala. Pictures and quiz
March
5th
Norway
And The Isle of Mull th
12
Up the Hidden Valley. Part 1 (Slides / talk)
19th My 12 Challenges
(Digital)
Ken Day/All.
Norman Mitchell.
Caroline and Dave Collinge.
Chris Miller
Anne & Tony Stott
Norman Mitchell.
Eddie Whittle.
The Club Room will close for the summer after the 19th March and reopen on Thursday 1st October.
Thank you all for supporting our club room.
This winter has been one of the best for attendance and picture shows. Have a good summer, and
hope to see you all again this winter.
Page 26 of 48
THE ARCHIVE COLLECTION – over 40 years ago
(adapted from Tony’s diaries). Part Four.
In 1972, the club’s summer tour was north to Scotland, with Tom Melling, Ken Day, John and
Martyn Smithson and I. We caught the midnight train from Preston to Perth. Tom asked Ken
what day it was, about 1.00 am, and he famously replied, “It’s today tomorrow to-now!” We
rode north and saw mighty salmon leaping at Shin Falls. The Sutherland beaches were
deserted and magnificent, white sands gleaming in the endless sunshine. Tom was over the
moon with the weather. It was so hot Ken took his Greenspot jacket off! We rode to Cape
Wrath, mainland Britain’s most north-western extremity, wrapped in an eerie mist. Skye was
sublime. Back at Perth we all had to wear clean white socks for the group photo – Tom said it
makes your brown legs look even browner!
Evening 10 on A59, Clitheroe By-pass (a cutting from the Lancashire Evening Telegraph). “On
a lovely summer’s evening, two riders got inside 24 minutes, not exactly commonplace on this
windy course. Francis Barton of Accrington Clarion did 23.45 and Peter Greenwood of Nelson
Wheelers did 23-46. In 3rd place was popular Tom Melling (Blackburn) perhaps better known
as a club-run leader and touring enthusiast (just back from a tour of Scotland?) who always
performs very well in competition. He did 24.40 and not the least noteworthy ride was that of
Anne Smith (Mellor) who merely removed the mudguards from her touring machine and on
heavy wheels and tyres returned 28.58.”
Thursday, 28th September, 1972. Last night at the clubroom (British Legion, Great Harwood) it
was an ordeal saying goodbye to all my cycling friends before I ride to Durham University –
Tom, Ken, John Dewhurst, Mervyn, Dave Moore, Phil Hargreaves, Steve Fleming, Pete
Thompson, Delli (Dave Ellison), Ian, Martyn, Roger Haydock, Chris Miller, Stan (Ormerod) and
Anne ….. I’ll always remember her freewheeling away at the end of the night, round the
corner, out of sight.
Tonight I found a letter behind the door. “Will you meet me at 10.00 am, Whalley Arches,
tomorrow morning? I will ride as far as Ribblehead with you.”
Friday, 29th September. When I left Anne at Ribblehead I rode over the Buttertubs and The
Stang to Barnard Castle YHA. Hills? What hills? I don’t remember riding over any. Tom rang
me at Barnard Castle. What a comfort, what a friend.
Durham, 1972-1973. I always cycled there and back, sending a heavy trunk in advance by
British Rail. Soon after I started there, Tom cycled up for the weekend. I rode back to
Yorkshire with him, but when I left him it started to snow. He had to turn back at Park Rash
and go home via Bishopdale instead. He got home about midnight, but still had the courtesy to
call on my Mum and Dad and let them know how I was. During the time I was away, I met the
club at various youth hostels ….. Keld, Saltburn and Elterwater. It was always hard leaving
them to ride back to Durham.
Saturday, 16th June, 1973. I met John Dewhurst in Durham, and rode north and westwards
through sunny Blanchland and Rookhope into Allendale. We sampled Newcastle Exhibition ale
in Allendale Town (2 pints each) and our legs were like jelly riding up to Ninebanks YHA. Next
day we rode over Hartside in the rain, then the Eden lanes, Ravenstonedale and Eldroth. A
memorable ride in excellent company.
July, 1973. The summer tour was to Norway, organised by Tom. There were 7 of us, including
the brothers, John and Martyn, John Dewhurst, Ken Winterburn (Flying Pixie) and Ken Day.
Tom was struggling out of Bergen, and we had to carry his bags and camping equipment. At
the head of the Sognefjord, 112 miles from the North Sea coast, we rested for a couple of
days. Tom said he felt better, but he was only fooling us. So we climbed over the
Jotunheiman, a tortuous ascent straight from sea-level. Half way up we waited for Tom, and
Ken Day. We waited for a long time, and we were on the verge of dropping back down when
Ken appeared, very red and in a big flap. “Tom says we have to carry on at all costs. He’s
Page 27 of 48
going to catch the bus back to Bergen,” Tom had tricked us, slapping his face before we set off
to give his cheeks some colour. We had to make a decision, and it was easy. We stashed our
bags and rode to the summit, and had a brew in the café there (this was not the time Ken
Day’s famous Greenspot jacket set on fire). I gazed longingly towards Lom, a place I have
never been to and perhaps never will, then we dropped back down the Jotunheiman to find
Tom. We limped back to Bergen, Tom catching as many buses as he could after visiting the
doctor. He had gastro enteritis.
Sunday, 26th August, 1973. I did the Three Peaks with Anne. We met at Whalley, 6.00 am,
and rode up to Stainforth. It was raining. In the public conveniences two men were sleeping on
the tiled floor. I went back outside and said to Anne, “Hey, come here and look at this.” It was
the Flying Pixie and Captain (Brian Haworth). They were monitoring an overnight Duke of
Edinburgh walk and decided it was drier to sleep in the loos! They started to cook up, and at
least they did not have to go far for a wash or to the toilet! We cycled and walked and carried
the bikes over Pen-y-gent, Whernside and Ingleborough, and then rode home! It was a long
day, and thank goodness it stopped raining for us on the peaks.
Sunday, 2nd September, 1973. I rode the club 50 mile championship, my first one. At that
time this was for the North Lancashire Road Club, the racing offshoot of our touring section.
Our event was incorporated in the Lancaster CC “Silver Jubilee” time trial. My chain de-railed
at the start, jamming between the sprockets and the wheel. I had to take the wheel out to get
started. The adrenalin was well pumping! I can’t believe I was fastest club rider, in a time of
2.06.13 (4th overall). My first trophy. Other times were:
1. Geoff Greenwood
2. Keith Boardman
3. Geoff McGann
4. Tony Stott
5. Chris Miller
6. Terry Waring
8. Roger Haydock
15 John Dewhurst
18 Dennis Walsh
26 Johnny Draper
West Pennine RC
Birkenhead Victoria
West Pennine RC
NLRC
NLRC
NLRC
NLRC
NLRC
NLRC
NLRC
1.58.51 (winner of the Silver Jubilee trophy)
1.59.07
(Chris’s dad)
2. 05.10
2.06.13
(tourist? of course!)
2.07.36
2.08.21
2.08.53
2.14.38
2.15.22
(did you blow up, Dennis?)
2.17.25
(Under the wing and winged wheels of Ken Hartley and his infamous speed training, I went on
to win this Lancaster CC event in 1991. I was awarded the special “Silver Jubilee” huge silver
trophy. Mr (Gordon) Brennan told us to take great care of it when Anne and I picked it up at
their dinner/dance the following January, on the coldest night of the winter. On the way home
we put the trophy in the footwell of our van, but we had to keep the heating on maximum to
stop the windscreen from freezing and to keep Anne’s feet warm. Ping! “What was that?” I
asked Anne. “I don’t know,” she replied. Ping! Ping! The heat inside the van caused the
engraved silver band around the trophy to ping off! Ooooops, sorry Gordon!)
Durham, September-December 1973. I suppose I got race fit on a recipe of the big rides to
Durham and back, but I had no top end speed as I didn’t train. I got under the hour in my 2 nd
“25” (59.15, equal with Rod Goodfellow, Beacon RC). All the time I was at Durham I really
missed the club and my cycling friends. I met them at Keld YHA in November, and at
Elterwater YHA for the Christmas holiday. But at Elterwater, I never saw Anne. She was
camping at Chapel Stile with the motorbike gang, all club riders including Dave Stamp, John
Mullen, Margaret Gregson (Henry’s daughter), Terry Waring, John Kitching and Chris
Clarkson. I never saw Anne. And all the time I was at Durham, she never came to visit me.
Page 28 of 48
Staffed By cyclists for Cyclists
195 BLACKBURN ROAD, ACCRINGTON LANCS
Tel: (01254) 233948
NORTH WEST LANCASHIRE’S LEADING SHOP
We stock a comprehensive range of Cycles, Frames & Equipment.

Cycles and Wheels built for all occasions

Clothing and Accessories

Mail Order
NJD Sports Injury
&
Physical Therapy Clinic
Members of The Society of Sports Therapists (SST)
Nick Dinsdale MSST, BSc (Hons)
Executive Committee Member of SST
Nicola Dinsdale MSST, BSc (Hons)
Sports Therapist to Blackburn Rugby Club
We treat muscle & joint pain e.g. low back, neck, shoulder, hips, legs etc
Treatment by: heat, remedial massage, ultrasound, laser, biomechanical assessment, foot orthotics, & specific
rehabilitation programmes
Tel: 01200 427457
E-mail: nick@njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
www.njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
Page 29 of 48
NJD Sports Injury Clinic
36 Moorland Crescent
Clitheroe, Lancs. BB7 4PY
United Kingdom
Tel: 44 (1200) 427457
e-mail: nick@njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
www.njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
Written for Costa Blanca News (Spain)
Crank Length
Graduate Sports Therapist Nicholas Dinsdale (member of The Society of Sports Therapists) examines the
latest philosophy surrounding crank length and the latest science.
The purpose of this article is not to provide recommendations on given crank lengths, but to increase
awareness, thereby enable the cyclist to make better informed decisions.
Traditional philosophy
For many, the idea ‘longer is better’ has long prevailed amongst cyclists, coaches and bikefitters. This
philosophy has been based on experience and intuition rather than science. Traditionally choice of crank
length has been based on the cyclist’s height or inseam leg-length. While various formulae exist their
reliability remains questionable. For unknown reasons new road bikes usually come with crank lengths of
170mm or 172.5mm and Mountain-bikes are usually supplied with 175mm crank length, supposedly to
provide more leverage. Road time-trialists often choose longer crank lengths, typically 175mm or 180mm in
the belief of improved power output.
What does the research say?
Although research is sparse, traditional philosophy is being challenged, especially amongst triathletes. As a
result of the growing evidence, many elite (USA) triathletes are moving towards shorter crank lengths with
significant improvements in performance. The question is why?
In 2001, Martin and Spirduso tested 16 race cyclists (of various heights). They performed maximal sprint power
across a range of crank lengths between (145mm to 195mm). Surprisingly, they found that maximum power
output and metabolic cost was unaffected over the range of crank lengths. More recently (2011), Martin and
colleagues carried a similar study and substantiated their previous findings. They concluded by stating that
both studies suggest that cyclists are now free to choose crank length on criteria other than height or inseamlength.
In 2010, Mcdermid and Edwards carried out a study on well-trained female cross-country mountain bike
riders. The aim was to compare various performance measurements while using different crank lengths
(170mm, 172.5 and 175mm). Similar to (Martin, 2001) they also found power output and endurance
performance remained unaffected across the range of crank lengths. However, the time taken to reach
maximal peak power was much shorter for the 170mm compared with the 175mm crank. This suggests a
potential race advantage due to the ability to respond quickly (accelerate) to changes in terrain when using
the shorter crank 170mm.
Pedalling kinematics
Let’s look how changes in crank-length affect our pedalling technique and muscle activity. We know that
changes in crank length change the range of motion of the hip and knee joint and change cadence (RPM). The
effect of changing crank length from 175mm to 165mm will increase the rate of cadence by 5%, - about the
same percentage as the change in crank-length. The loss in leverage is taken up by an increase in cadence.
Coincidentally, this difference (5%) equates to the difference between a ‘compact’ 50 tooth chainring
compared with a 53 chainring, likewise the difference between 20 and 21 teeth on your rear cassette.
Page 30 of 48
NJD Sports Injury Clinic
36 Moorland Crescent
Clitheroe, Lancs. BB7 4PY
United Kingdom
Tel: 44 (1200) 427457
e-mail: nick@njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
www.njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
While cadence is affected (5%) - foot speed (and muscle fibre shortening velocity) remains unaffected. What
does this tell us? Well, 5mm change in
crank length means only a small amount of adaptation is required, in return for potential benefits, about to be
highlighted.
Potential implications
Although research is sparse and remains inconclusive let’s try and make some sense of it and see if we can
derive some practicable benefits. We know that longer cranks increase the range of motion at the hip and
knee joint. This increased range of motion places joints in a more flexed position, which in turn, increases
compressive loads on the joint surfaces. Therefore, cyclists with existing hip or knee problems, common in
older cyclists, may well benefit from shorter cranks. Many riders claim to have become symptom free after
moving to shorter cranks.
Studies and numerous wind tunnel tests have unequivocally shown that a lower bar position improves
aerodynamics by reducing the drag factor. We also know that shorter cranks open up the crucial ‘hip-angle’,
which allows the cyclist to lower the bar position, crucially with no loss in power output. Improved
aerodynamics means faster ground speeds for a given power output. Many elite triathletes and some timetrialists already enjoy this potential benefit. The hip-angle represents the angle between the thigh and the
torso. A reduction in crank length of 5mm equates to 5 degree increase in hip-angle. Changes in crank length
necessitate a change in saddle height e.g. 5mm shorter crank requires 5mm increase in saddle height.
Conclusion
Within a range, there appears to be no power-loss or metabolic cost when using shorter crank lengths.
However, shorter cranks appear to offer potential benefits for triathletes and time-trialists through improved
aerodynamics for the same hip-angle. Shorter rather than longer cranks reduce stress on joint surfaces.
Ideally, some experimentation in crank length would desirable - but could prove costly as cranks can be an
expensive purchase.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Academic studies referred to within
Authors: J.C. Martin and W.W. Spirduso
Title: Determinants of maximal cycling power: crank length, pedaling rate and pedal speed.
Journal: Eur J Appl Physiol. Date: 2001 May; 84(5):413-8.
Authors: P.R. Barratt, T. Korff, S.J. Elmer and J.C. Martin
Title: Effect of crank length on joint-specific power during maximal cycling.
Journal: Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Sep;43(9):1689-97. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3182125e96
Authors: P.W. Macdermid and A.M. Edwards
Title: Influence of crank length on cycle ergometry performance of well-trained female cross-country mountain bike
athletes.
Journal: Eur J Appl Physiol. Date: 2010 Jan; 108(1):177-82. doi: 10.1007/s00421-009-1197-0.
Page 31 of 48
NJD Sports Injury Clinic
36 Moorland Crescent
Clitheroe, Lancs. BB7 4PY
United Kingdom
Tel: 44 (1200) 427457
e-mail: nick@njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
www.njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
Abstracts:
Eur J Appl Physiol. 2001 May;84(5):413-8.
Determinants of maximal cycling power: crank length, pedaling rate and pedal speed.
Martin JC, Spirduso WW.
Source
University of Utah, Department of Exercise and Sport Science, 250S. 1850E. Rm. 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0920, USA.
jim.martin@health.utah.edu
Abstract
The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of cycle crank length on maximum cycling power, optimal pedaling
rate, and optimal pedal speed, and to determine the optimal crank length to leg length ratio for maximal power production. Trained
cyclists (n = 16) performed maximal inertial load cycle ergometry using crank lengths of 120, 145, 170, 195, and 220 mm. Maximum
power ranged from a low of 1149 (20) W for the 220-mm cranks to a high of 1194 (21) W for the 145-mm cranks. Power produced
with the 145- and 170-mm cranks was significantly (P < 0.05) greater than that produced with the 120- and 220-mm cranks. The
optimal pedaling rate decreased significantly with increasing crank length, from 136 rpm for the 120-mm cranks to 110 rpm for the
220-mm cranks. Conversely, optimal pedal speed increased significantly with increasing crank length, from 1.71 m/s for the 120-mm
cranks to 2.53 m/s for the 220-mm cranks. The crank length to leg length and crank length to tibia length ratios accounted for 20.5%
and 21.1% of the variability in maximum power, respectively. The optimal crank length was 20% of leg length or 41% of tibia length.
These data suggest that pedal speed (which constrains muscle shortening velocity) and pedaling rate (which affects muscle
excitation state) exert distinct effects that influence muscular power during cycling. Even though maximum cycling power was
significantly affected by crank length, use of the standard 170-mm length cranks should not substantially compromise maximum
power in most adults.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Eur J Appl Physiol. 2010 Jan;108(1):177-82. doi: 10.1007/s00421-009-1197-0. Epub 2009 Sep 22.
Influence of crank length on cycle ergometry performance of well-trained female crosscountry mountain bike athletes.
Macdermid PW, Edwards AM.
Source
Universal College of Learning, Palmerston North, New Zealand. p.macdermid@ucol.ac.nz
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the differential effects of three commonly used crank lengths (170, 172.5 and 175 mm) on
performance measures relevant to female cross-country mountain bike athletes (n = 7) of similar stature. All trials were performed
in a single blind and balanced order with a 5- to 7-day period between trials. Both saddle height and fore-aft position to pedal axle
distance at a crank angle of 90 degrees was controlled across all trials. The laboratory tests comprised a supra-maximal (peak
power-cadence); an isokinetic (50 rpm) test; and a maximal test of aerobic capacity. The time to reach supra-maximal peak
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Page 32 of 48
NJD Sports Injury Clinic
36 Moorland Crescent
Clitheroe, Lancs. BB7 4PY
United Kingdom
Tel: 44 (1200) 427457
e-mail: nick@njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
www.njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Sep;43(9):1689-97. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3182125e96.
Effect of crank length on joint-specific power during maximal cycling.
Barratt PR, Korff T, Elmer SJ, Martin JC.
Source
Centre for Sports Medicine and Human Performance, Brunel University, Uxbridge, United Kingdom.
Abstract
Previous investigators have suggested that crank length has little effect on overall short-term maximal cycling power once the
effects of pedal speed and pedaling rate are accounted for. Although overall maximal power may be unaffected by crank length, it is
possible that similar overall power might be produced with different combinations of joint-specific powers. Knowing the effects of
crank length on joint-specific power production during maximal cycling may have practical implications with respect to avoiding or
delaying fatigue during high-intensity exercise.
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of changes in crank length on joint-specific powers during short-term maximal
cycling.
RESULTS:
ANOVAs revealed that crank length had no significant effect on relative joint-specific powers at the hip, knee, or ankle joints (P >
0.05) when pedaling rate was optimized. When pedaling rate was constant, crank length had a small but significant effect on hip and
knee joint power (150 vs 190 mm only) (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS:
These data demonstrate that crank length does not affect relative joint-specific power once the effects of pedaling rate and pedal
speed are accounted for. Our results thereby substantiate previous findings that crank length per se is not an important
determinant of maximum cycling power production.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Page 33 of 48
NJD Sports Injury Clinic
36 Moorland Crescent
Clitheroe, Lancs. BB7 4PY
United Kingdom
Tel: 44 (1200) 427457
e-mail: nick@njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
www.njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
Saddle designs, saddle tilt and their effect on pelvic angle,
urogenital problems and comfort
Bikefit expert and graduate Sports Therapist Nicholas Dinsdale (member of The Society of Sports
Therapists) looks at common urogenital problems amongst cyclists and a potential cause of low back pain.
Research shows that cyclists are more likely to suffer from urogenital symptoms than their sedentary
counterparts. For men, typical symptoms include temporary groin numbness, pain, tingling sensations,
erectile dysfunction, and frequent need to urinate. For women, typical symptoms
include frequent bladder infections and painful skin irritations. The likely cause(s)
include saddle design, saddle tilt, saddle height, riding position and excessive body
weight. Furthermore, low back pain while riding has been associated with saddle
position. Without saying, it is important that any of the aforementioned symptoms are
thoroughly investigated to eliminate serious disease.
What is the problem?
The issue lies with the vulnerable perineum, the area between the genitals and the anus that is a mass of soft
tissue, nerves and blood vessels. When we sit on a saddle for prolonged periods we compress the delicate
structures (nerves and blood vessels) which can lead to the aforementioned urogenital symptoms and
conditions. Heavy riders put more compressive pressure on the perineum compared with light weight riders.
Studies show that race cyclists offset much of the load from the saddle by transferring body weight through
the pedals. This has the effect of decreasing pressure on the perineum.
Incidence level
A comprehensive review, which involved 62 pertinent research studies
investigated urogenital disorders amongst cyclists, the review found that 50%-91%
of the cyclists suffered geneitalia numbness, and 13%-24% suffered erectile
dysfunction. Other sources of research suggest that that while cyclists may have
high incidence of urogenital pain / disorders, it seems to be unrelated to prostate
diseases – but cyclists can present with elevated serum PSA levels.
Saddle designs
Over the last decade, saddle design has been the target of a great deal of scholarly and commercial research.
While personal choice still remains the key aspect, certain guidelines should be considered. Regardless of
riding style, body weight should be supported on the pelvic bones (sit bones), known as the ishial tuberosities.
Therefore, we should select a saddle width accordingly. Usually bigger riders, with a wider pelvis need wider
saddles, similarly do women.
Page 34 of 48
NJD Sports Injury Clinic
36 Moorland Crescent
Clitheroe, Lancs. BB7 4PY
United Kingdom
Tel: 44 (1200) 427457
e-mail: nick@njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
www.njdsportsinjuries.co.uk
When we look closely at the anatomy of our sit bones, they are
wide at the back and gradually become narrower at the front. This
anatomical feature has implications on riding position – meaning
the contact point with the saddle moves depending on riding
position. Riders that use an upright riding position sit towards the
back part of their sit bones, thus require a wider saddle. When we
bend forward as in an aero position (triathlete) our body weight
(contact point) moves forwards on to the narrower frontal part of
the sit bone, thus necessitates a narrow saddle.
Many modern saddles have a partial or complete cut-out designed
to decrease pressure on the perineum. Some saddles are nose-less
– designed to leave the perineum totally unloaded. In a recent
study involving USA police officers, traditional saddles were
replaced with a nose-less variety. Although the nose-less saddle
requires some getting used to, the majority of officers found the
transition fairly straightforward. After a six month trial the number
of men reporting improvements in genital sensation increased
dramatically. Men reporting lack of genital numbness rose from
27% to 82% after using nose-less saddles. Moreover, around 97% of
officers continued to use the nose-less saddle after the trial had
finished.
Saddle tilt
Generally, the saddle should be horizontal (green line),
plus or minus a few degrees. Men often prefer a slightly
elevated nose (red line) and women often prefer a
slightly downward position nose (blue line). Riders that spend most of the time riding in an upright position
often have a horizontal or slightly elevated nose; whereas riders that spend more time on the drops (aeroposition) will prefer a slightly downward nose. Anatomically, the tilt of the saddle affects your pelvic tilt, which
has biomechanical implications. Research suggests that a forward pelvic tilt, facilitated by a slightly downward
nose, is more favourable for low back suffers because it decreases lumbar flexion and de-stresses the
longitudinal ligaments of the lumbar spine – in addition to potentially decreasing perineum pressure.
Summary
Urogenital problems are common in both men and women cyclists. Although saddle design is down to
personal choice, your riding-position, pelvic-width and saddle-tilt are critical factors in minimising urogenital
problems and achieving cycling comfort.
References
Page 35 of 48
Bartoletti, T et al. (2009). Cycling and genitourinary symptoms: results from an observational analytical cohort
study. Journal of Andrological Science; 16:98-103
Bressel E. & Larson B. (2003). Bicycle Seat Design and Their Effect on Pelvic Angle, Trunk Angle and Comfort.
Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 35(2); 327-332.
Goldstein I. (2008). Awareness, Bicycle Seats, and Choices. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 5(8), 1773-1775.
Leibovitch I. & Mor Y. (2005). The Vicious Cycling: Bicycling Related Urogenital Disorders. European Urology,
47(3); 277-287.
THE FOUR COUNTRIES TOUR
(2 weeks tour in April 2014: 900 miles)
England:
(Clayton-Le-Moors to Chester)
Heading down to Liverpool on the bikes, it’s 8 a.m. and the sun is shining. The wind blows us
along the side roads and cycle paths through Ormskirk, past the historic Lathom abbey. The
sweet smell of hawthorn fills the air. Blossom and bluebells dance in the wind. That day
Liverpool were playing Norwich, the city was dead. We passed a big wall mural of the four
Beatles; I start to sing …..
“It’s been a hard day’s ride; I’ve been trying like a dog. It’s been a hard day’s ride, I’ll be
sleeping like a log, But when I get on that ferry, I’m gonna be merry….”
Not quite as melodic as Gerry’s “Ferry across the Mersey” which serenaded us across the
river to Birkenhead. From here, we had a top ride right round the Wirral peninsular, taking a
fantastic old railway cycle track at West Kirby to Neston along the Dee estuary, into Cheshire.
Across yellow sands and water was Wales, just a stride away.
Wales:
(Chester to Anglesey)
Croeso i Cymru. We crossed the border into Wales, and then did a big tempo climb out of
Pantyfford on the A1504. It was Easter Sunday, the sun was shining, and it was another tail
wind. Denbighshire, Conwy, and down the valley to Betws-y-coed, “the Gateway to
Snowdonia”. We rode on the historic coach route, London to Holyhead, into Snowdon’s
rugged beauty. I was excited about riding over the famous Pen-y-pass to Llanberis, fired up
with apricot flapjack and Welsh pancakes; I
was ready to tackle anything. The A4086
climbs steep and steady between Glyder
Fawr and Snowdon’s towering massif, then
descends to Llyn Padarn, and the bright
coloured buildings of Llanberis.
After riding 72 miles, we sampled a few of
Wales’ special Purple Moose beers, sitting
by the lakeside. They were like nectar.
The next day we crossed the Menai Bridge
built by Thomas Telford in 1818. Croeso i
Ynys Mon - Welcome to the Isle of Anglesey.
We were a bit tight for time riding across
Anglesey to Holyhead ferry terminal. But the
gods were with us, it was another roaring tail
wind, all the way to the ferry to sail to Ireland.
Page 36 of 48
Ireland:
(Dublin to Kintyre)
Dublin was built around the river Leith. The international hostel is a combination of an old
church, nunnery and school. Inside, green glossed walls hold untold misery, as did the small
cell dormitories that we slept in. Outside the city buzzes with music and bars. Irish writers
reign here. Literary posters line the streets bragging Joyce, Shaw, Beckett, Yeats and others.
We stayed late in MacCarthy’s bar listening to Irish fiddles and songs, enjoying real Irish
Guinness, even at the price of £5.50 a pint, and £3.50 for a half!
Next day, we bee lined for Newgrange, a
5,000 year old Neolithic burial chamber
that stands majestically on the bend of
the river Boyne. It’s older than the
pyramids by 500 years. It has an
impressive front facade of quartz and
granite. Above the entrance to the
chamber there is a roof box; at the winter
solstice the roof box allows the sun to
penetrate the passage, eventually
illuminating the whole chamber. The ritual
lasts just 17 minutes. Along with its
neighbours Knowth and Dowth, similar
chambered burial mounds, it is a
UNESCO world heritage site. You have to
go through the visitors’ centre, and take the official guided tour to view the mounds. For 8
euro it’s excellent and unbelievable when they recreate the winter solstice illuminating the
inside of the chamber. We stayed just across the road at Newgrange Lodge. It was tastefully
decorated with paintings and ornaments in Neolithic style and a bargain at 49 euros (£40) for
an en suite room and a 4 star breakfast.
We rode north, up the coast towards the Glens of Antrim. I wondered where we were in
relation to England on the coast. From the mouth of the River Boyne across the Irish Sea is
The River Ribble. We crossed from Southern into Northern Ireland at Carlingford lough,
where the “Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea”.
The Mourne Mountains are majestic, with emerald fields and yellow gorse lying at their feet.
We stayed in the mountains at a lodge that night, and were the only guests. It was arctic
inside, so when Mariad (70 year old Irish
warden) invited us to an Irish music night,
we jumped at the offer. It was an evening
of spontaneous recitals and personal
repertoires. The Irish musicians played
fiddles, tin whistles, bodrun drums and
uilleaen pipes. When approached to sing,
we realised we only knew the first 2 lines of
songs, or just the chorus.
The next day I made up for our disgrace,
by singing my own compositions to Tony,
as we rode up to County Down. Van
Morrison (an Irish rock star) poetically sings
about his journey “coming back from
Downpatrick” after a day’s bird watching.
We rode round to Van’s St John’s Point. “…on and on over the hills to Ardglass” where he got
Page 37 of 48
“….a couple of jars of mussels and potted herring in case he got hungry before dinner” but we
got fish and chips because we were starving before tea. The song is called “Coney Island”,
which ironically isn’t an island but a small headland just before Strangford Lough. The last
lines of the song are…. “and all the while going to Coney Island, I’m thinking, wouldn’t it be
great if it was like this all time.”
He also sings about Strangford Lough where we got the ferry (a service which has run for
over 4 centuries) across “the narrow” to the Ards peninsular. Strangford Lough, the largest
sea inlet in Britain, is almost totally enclosed by the Ards peninsular. The 100 sq miles of
Lough holds submerged drumlins, inlets, bays, and coves. In 2007 it became the home to the
World’s first commercial tidal Power station, Seagen. The underwater generator takes
advantage of the Lough’s fast tidal flow. We tacked across the Ards peninsular, which gave
us the advantage of both the Lough and coastal views. Straight across the sea on the coast
of England we would be at St. Bees Head. This bird haven Lough, is just 15 miles from
Belfast busy city.
Belfast is a city of murals. Walls full with
memorials, of soldiers, freedom fighters,
and the famous Alex Higgins, snooker
player. Higgins and Wiggins. The pink
Giro adverts of Wiggins, on his bike,
decorate the city. With his black socks
and sideburns he passed us everywhere
on taxis, buses, and trains, all ready for
the big Giro ride on May 11th. We followed
Wiggins, up the Antrim coastal road (not
to be missed) to Ballycastle, where the
Kintrye Express ferry was waiting to take
us across the channel to Kintyre.
Scotland:
(Kintyre to Gretna Green)
The Kintyre Express bunny hopped over the waves, like we were hopping over Kintyre to
Aran. When we landed in Kintyre, we rode up to the Mull. A demanding climb (from sea level)
of 5 miles uphill, with 6 arrows, but
well worth it for the view of Ireland’s
Fair head, and Scotland’s Islay. We
had sunrise in Belfast and sunset in
Kintyre. Only two roads leave
Cambletown, up Kintyre’s long leggy
peninsular to Tarbert. One on the east,
a single track road with 16 arrows,
down the side of Kibrannan Sound,
with a view of Arran; one on the west,
flat, beside the Atlantic coast, and the
sound of Gigha. The “west is best”,
hugging the shoreline, beside silver
sands with translucent water lapping
endlessly, with sublime views of Islay,
Jura and Gigha across the turquoise
sound.
Page 38 of 48
From the Kintyre Peninsula, we caught the ferry across to Lochranza on the Isle of Arran, our
stepping stone to home. Goat Fell’s Mountains soar above yellow broom and the ruined
castle of the enchanting Lochranza. There’s deer and woodpeckers in the hostel grounds. We
had two rest days here. The first day, we walked up Goat Fell. It was perfect weather. From
its granite summit we had a feast of stunning views of Kintyre, Islay, Kyles of Bute and the
Ayrshire coast. Next day we explored the west coastline of the island. The Cock of Arran, with
its “Hutton unconformity”. The red sandstone King’s Cave, where Robert the Bruce hid, and
got courage from watching a spider building its web. All the tour, the only rain we had was
riding to the ferry at Brodick.
Stepping off Arran onto the Scottish mainland, we started on the last leg of our journey home
to England. We were heading for the Galloway hills and Newton Stewart for the night. It was
6 pm when we stopped in Maybole for food, and then we saw the sign for Newton Stewart, 35
miles! It was a bit of a shock, having already ridden 63 miles that day. We soon focused up,
on the big ride ahead over the mountain road, up the Devil’s Elbow, over the Balloch Pass,
and down the long wooded Glen Trool. No vehicles passed us riding through “The Dark
Skies” to Minnigaff. It was 10pm when we arrived at the hostel, happy, hungry and
exhausted.
The day after, we took the Military and Raiders’ roads, through the rolling Galloway hills, then
round the rocky coves and sandy bays of the Solway Coast. From Gretna Green, we avoided
the busy roads by taking a great cycle route into England and the picturesque Lake District.
England:
(Gretna Green to Clayton-le-Moors).
My chain and gears had been creaking for few days. On the busy road riding into Ambleside
my chain snapped, right outside a bus shelter. We’d just gone inside the shelter, to repair it,
when a heavy shower of rain started. How lucky are we? By the time we’d finished mending
it, the sun was shining again. It was our last night on tour and we were staying at Windermere
Hostel.
On the lakeside road we passed the
Lowood Hotel, where Tara and Drew
were guests at a wedding reception.
So naturally, we stop at the hotel to
see them, (and have a beer at the
same time.) It made a great end to the
tour. When we came out it was dusk,
and a lovely scene. The Langdales,
stood in all their glory, silhouetted in
the still lake.
We were both glowing inside. I turned
to Tony, and said, smiling…
“Wouldn’t it be great, if we could do
this all of the time?
ANNE STOTT.
Page 39 of 48
Welsh cakes.
Baked for refreshments on Thursday 2nd October for the Four CountriesTour picture show.
Ingredients.
225g plain flour
85g caster sugar
½ tsp. mixed spice
½ tsp. baking powder
50g butter, cut into small pieces
50g lard, cut into small pieces plus extra for frying. (I used stork cooking marg)
50g currants
1 egg, beaten, splash of milk.
Method.
 Tip the flour, sugar, mixed spice, baking powder and a pinch of salt, into a bowl.
 Then, with your fingers, rub in the butter and lard until crumbly.
 Mix in the currants.
 Work the egg into the mixture until you have a soft dough, adding a splash of milk if it
seems a little dry – it should be the same consistency as shortcrust pastry.
 Roll out the dough on a lightly floured work surface to the thickness of your little finger.
 Cut out rounds using a 6cm cutter – re-roll any trimmings.
 Grease a flat griddle pan or heavy frying pan with lard, or oil and place over a medium
heat.
 Cook the welsh cakes in batches, for about 3 mins each side, until golden brown, crisp
and cooked through.
 Delicious served warm with butter and jam, or simply sprinkled with caster sugar.
 Cakes will stay fresh in a tin for 3/4 days.
As they would say in Wales “Blasus” (“delicious”)!
Anne Stott
Page 40 of 48
Wales
I had not been to Wales for a few years but got the chance to return during September
when we had a spell of really good weather. Having stayed near Bala in a fine bunkbarn,
which I had to myself for 5 nights, riding both ways over the Bwlch - y - Groes pass on
the superb single track roads around Lake Vrnwy I moved south to Borth, a few hilly miles
north of Aberystwyth.
The sea defences were being upgraded after the previous winter’s storms so I had to dodge
some massive earth moving vehicles to reach the warm shallow water for a swim, which I
did as soon as I arrived. I had chosen Borth in order to do a favourite ride from the
coast up to Nant-y-Moch reservoir, which is a hidden gem. After having missed my way
slightly, as usual, trying to avoid riding on the busy A487 Aberystwyth road I reached Tal-yBont where the ride proper starts.
A signpost points the way to Nant-y-Moch and takes you up a very steady climb for about 4
miles with magnificent views of the valley below. From the rocky outcrop at the top, the
distant sea can be seen. The road then becomes undulating as you follow the edge of the
reservoir for several miles, eventually leaving it as you cross a dam which contains a hydro
electric generator. When you hit the much busier A44 near Devils Bridge, there is quite a
long uphill drag, I did not want to go down as far as the towns of Llangurig and Llandiloes so
took the 1st left turn after Pant Mawr on to very steep narrow lanes and valleys which leads
to the Clywedog forrest and lake near Staylittle.
As I approached a picnic area where I intended to stop and eat I found myself passing a
strung out group of walkers/joggers. When one shouted encouragement at my baleful
attempts up a hill I asked her what event was taking place and was astounded to learn it
was a single day walk of 45 miles from Clun to Cardigan Bay - this put my efforts into
perspective. From the picnic spot they were headed towards the reservoir I had been
around via a pass over Plynlimon close to the sources of the rivers Wye and Severn before
dropping to the coast.
I continued on to Staylittle before turning left and heading down the mountain road to
Machynlleth, surely one of the greatest downhill rides in Britain, or climbs if you’re daft
enough to go up the other way, which I had been the previous day. From there it was a flat
run back to Borth to finish off a great day’s riding.
Steve Hodgson
Page 41 of 48
Please note that Paul Hewitt cycles is now located at
17-19 Preston Road, Leyland, Lancashire, PR25 4NT
Page 42 of 48
Georgia
The map showed a way over the Lesser Caucasus mountains to Manglisi in the next valley,
but as we pushed our bicycles in constant rain up the steep and stony track, there had been
no signs of civilisation for 5 hours when suddenly we came across the Kvatakshevi
Monastery but there was `no way onwards` and `no room at the inn` so it was back down into
the valley for a sleep and re-think.
Georgia, in the Caucasus was a natural destination after previous tours in Armenia and
Azerbaijan. There were three distinct parts to this tour:
Part 1. Cycling east from Tbilisi Airport, Iveria was flat and scorchingly sunny through
Sagarejo with the attractive renovated
Sighnaghi walled town and then on to
the wine centre Telovi. Traffic all the
time becoming lighter, thank
goodness. There,our landlady said
that the roads westwards were
unmade and impassable for bicycles
but we found them perfect for us who
travel at 12kph. Maybe car drivers who
want to drive at 80kph or faster find
them frustrating. The hilly countryside
was beautiful and the snow covered
5000mt Caucasus mountains often
visible to the north. In Tianeti, the
homestay owner, a lecturer, looked
after us really well with home grown
food, wine and we danced.
Part 2. At Zhinvaly, we turned north on the Georgian Military Highway, the road to the high
mountains and Russia. The rain started and as we climbed it turned colder, so that at
Pasanauri, we were ready for a nice warm bed but the only hotel there was shut. A helpful
young lady appeared and soon we were following two young men to their small guesthouse
3km out of town. There, a party was in full swing. What a spread and wine flowing! A 3 piece
band soon got everyone dancing. After showering, changing and getting the stove going with
2 pieces of wood which smoked the room out (our panniers smelt for 2 days) we joined in.
The stove stayed warm all night and dried our clothes. Continuing to pass many parked
lorries, the Highway headed upwards to Gudauri in cold rain and almost at the ski resort, we
took shelter in a honey maker’s wooden caravan with 2 Berlin long distance cycle campers.
They explained about the huge landslide that blocked the valley and would need 60 earth
movers 3 weeks to clear, hence the waiting lorries.
A rest day in Gudauri was out of the question, mist and heavy rain, but suddenly the hotel
receptionist asked if we wanted a lift back towards Tbilisi `in 10 minutes`. A quick pack, (they
had already put our 2 bikes on the minibus) and we were off to stay the night in lovely historic
Mtskheta. Still, a bit of a rest day (only 5 miles). Weather down in the valley warm enough.
Part 3. The Lesser Caucasus. Our map showed 2 routes (with road numbers!) over the
mountains to Manglisi but our first attempt had been unsuccessful,and a second night in
Mtskheta was needed to check the route with the Tourist Office and the police, also to buy a
pair of plimsoles to cycle/ walk in to replace my cycling shoes that had lost their soles. Again,
in rain and mud the consistency of clay, it was mostly pushing through steep woodland, past
Page 43 of 48
historical statues (Battle of Didgori) and with numerous false summits in more open country.
Clouds were below us by then. At one time it looked like a lone church was to be our
sleepover but suddenly the stream in which we were struggling upwards was noted as flowing
in our direction. Hurray, we were past the top (1700mt.). Wet and victorious, at 6pm, the
asphalt was reached. There had been no signs of civilisation, apart from one empty church,
for 7 hours. It was an hour downhill to the welcoming Manglisi hotel where the receptionist reopened the kitchen to cook us a meal. 2 young mothers with their babies, holidaying in the
good woodland air, spoke good English and we managed to partly clean off the football sized
lumps of mud! At Tsalke, BP had taken every room for the new pipeline construction but a
friendly young lady had already offered her home to us. The family had come down from
Svaneti where 6 months of snow annually made farming hard (they spoke an unwritten
Svaneri language). It was all we could do to leave, partly hidden, a donation.
At the top of the Paravani Pass,
2100 mtrs, thunder and lightning,
then heavy large hailstones but we
could shelter behind a parked car,
Anni was bruised for a few days
from the hailstones. The road was
white and slippery as we
descended but after a few minutes,
warmth and steamed local trout, in
a cafe run by Armenians. On then
via Armenian-inhabited
Ninotsminda and AkhalkalakiI,
travelling by day to avoid the perils
of cognac and wolves, all the while
open Steppe landscape with snow
covered mountains in the distance,
but the road nicely graded. A
steady climb, but with aggressive dogs to outrun, to Vardzia where there would be plenty to
keep you busy for a week, especially if you like history and to walk in the mountains. The
cave town was especially interesting. On then, descending leisurely to Akhaltsikhe, then
Borjomi with its spa gardens for another `rest day`. There, a near 3 hour train ride (30p!)
takes you up to the 1600mt. ski resort and then a wonderful 18 miles descent back to town.
Never mind downhill skiing. This was the summer equivalent.
Just two long days on quiet, rolling minor roads to within a short ride from the airport. Gori, is
Stalin’s birthplace and an overnight in a renovated Soviet style hotel, overlooking the rail
carriage that took him to the Potsdam Conference. Then a wonderful day with beautiful views
north to the South Ossetia Caucasus range. Small shops open on the Sunday sold fresh
bread, water and snacks. A final day, a short ride through Tbilisi to collect our cardboard box
was also no problem, there was a wide embankment by the river, rather like by the Thames
but no-one using it so we could make good progress and enjoy good views of the capital.
So, Georgia a fantastic experience, the plusses the high mountain scenery, quiet roads
bordered with colourful flowers and the most welcoming folk. Perhaps friendly horn blowing
and the dogs in the mountains the only minusses. We will be back, next time to Racha,
Svannetti and perhaps the Black Sea coast. Anyone fancy a trip?
Steve Gregson, Blackburn, Lancashire.
Page 44 of 48
Riding with Children
Taking children out on bikes can start at a very early age. Our two were in the seat on the
back of the bikes from about 10 months old, and some children go in them even earlier. This
is fine until they get to about 3 or 4 years old when they get too heavy for the bike seat.
In the meantime, they like to start riding their own bikes. We found that balance bikes worked
really well, as they scoot along using their feet and learn how to corner, brake and balance
with the security of knowing their feet are on or very close to the ground. We found that they
then moved easily to pedal bikes (without stabilisers) at about 3 years - 3.5 years old.
Around this time, we moved Matthew on to a
tandem (when going out as a family), which he
loved for several months. However, as he was
already riding his own bike at this point, he wanted
to be more independent, so we started looking for
places that we could take the children, where they
could ride their own bikes and we could either walk
or ride. Here are a few of the places we have
discovered, but I am sure there are many more, so
if you know of anywhere, please do let us know at
clubmag@blackburnanddistrictctc.org.uk
School playground
Most schools allow families to use the playground out of school
hours, and ours is where Charlotte first rode (see picture
right). There is usually flat grass (football pitch) which can be
used for a less confident rider
Puncture Alley (from Hansons Garden Centre on old A59)
This road, very well used by cyclists and dog-walkers usually
has little traffic, and can be a good training ground.
Page 45 of 48
Whitendale
The road from Dunsop Bridge café up the Whitendale valley (to the end) is a fantastic gradual
valley for children on bikes (and adults!). It’s well over 3 miles each way (further if you want to
go uphill) and almost traffic free. We usually walk whilst they ride.
There’s a play area at the start/finish just behind the café and there’s very cheap parking and
toilets at the Pay and Display car park about 100m away.
Fleetwood – Blackpool – Lytham or any “proms”
Sea-front promenades provide a wide, flat, car-free environment for small cyclists. Watch out
for dog walkers and occasional steep drops to the beach/sea though! There are always plenty
of benches, views and ice-cream outlets!
Disused railway lines
These make great straight traffic free cycling paths.
There are a few of these in our area and the one from
Glasson Dock through Lancaster to Caton is great.
(See picture – right -)
There are also many of these in the North East, from
the mining days, and probably many in South Yorkshire
and Wales too?
Trans Pennine Trail, from Southport to Hornsea
This is route 56 / route 62 of the Sustrans route.
The western part, from Southport to Penistone claims to
be 96 miles mostly traffic free. We cycled a very small
part of this recently, near Lymm, and were pleasantly
surprised to find information boards and boards with old
photographs of the railway stations en route.
Guild Wheel
Preston’s Guild Wheel circular ride around the outskirts of Preston (21 miles) is a great one
for slightly more confident children; Matthew did it just as he turned 6. Some of it is on quiet
roads, but most is on traffic-free tarmac paths. It passes through the play area at Brockholes
at Junction 31 of the M6, which is very popular. This play area can also be reached on almost
traffic-free roads, from Osbaldeston through Balderstone and Bezza Lane.
Canals are another possibility for miles and miles of traffic free cycling, but we haven’t tried
those yet….for obvious reasons!
For more information, the Sustrans website (http://www.sustrans.org.uk) is very detailed,
colour-coding the different type of riding (traffic-free/on-road route).
Helen Dawson-Smith
Page 46 of 48
Page 47 of 48
Rough Stuff
Blackburn and District CTC have a long history of incorporating Rough-Stuff into their day
rides from North Lancashire and week-end/ Easter/ summer tours further afield.
Tom Melling talks of a Feb 1963 clubrun east to west over Mastiles Lane when the heavy
snow settled level with walls on the side, on arrival in Malham the cafe was closed and the
snow became freezing rain; the club arrived back in Blackburn at 10.30pm. He also
remembers an epic crossing of Langden Castle in a 1963 blizzzard.
Once while camping in Little Langdale, the club did Striding Edge via Glenridding. The
descent was ride-able and after Dunmail Raise, a Morris Minor later declared it could not
pass them even at 70mph!
Another 1970`s epic during a week-end away was on Wrynose after Hardknott in the snow
when 10 riders rescued the Mountain Rescue Land Rover from snow drifts. Much
embarrassment/ hilarity can be imagined after this episode!
An invitation ride organised by Ken Hartley had too many frisky youngsters so he asked an
experienced 3 Peaks cyclo-cross rider to take them over Langden Castle; consequently there
were some tired legs but keen new members.
Tom Melling and Tony Stott have done Striding Edge and Helvellyn both ways. Ian Stott has
done Helvellyn via Glenridding and Low Man, also the Roman Road over High Street.
Several riders have done High Cup Nick (both ways) and the Stott family including a young
Ian and Clare went over Cross Fell to Greg's Hut in the snow (an epic).
A dozen or so members including the Gregsons, RSF members, did a snowy Gatescarth
Pass on a recent February tour. These February Lakes tours were an annual feature of the
club for many years from the 1980`s until recently. Anne and Tony Stott (Section and D.A.
secretaries) have done the South Downs Way twice, the North Downs Way 3 times, the
Ridgeway and the Icknield Way 3 times.
Scotland, of course, has always been a favourite and in the early `80s, Jim Boocock led a
small Blackburn CTC group bivying over the Lairig Ghru in August. On another club hostel
tour, 6 or 7 youngsters with an adult were on a track high above Loch Morlich when they
came across an unlocked Land Rover with loaded rifles inside. When the occupants arrived
back they were admonished by one of the cheeky youngsters who also piped up “You are
Princess Anne”. She replied “Who are you?”, but she was amazed, impressed and interested
in their exploits with such heavily loaded bicycles.
Club runs from Whalley, Accrington etc continue to incorporate many sections of Rough-Stuff
e.g. Stockdale Lane, Hawkswick Clowder, Salter Fell etc. The informal Wednesday runs have
also incorporated a lot of rough-stuff through the years, especially when Ian Appleby, a RSF
member is present.
It should be noted that these rides mostly began and still begin in Blackburn and are carried
out on standard club-tourers.
Steve Gregson, Mellor, Blackburn.
CTC Life Member. RSF.
Page 48 of 48
Blackburn & District CTC Information.

Clubroom : Primetime Centre, Norden School, Stourton St, Rishton, Lancashire.
Between 7:30pm and 9:30 pm Thursdays, entry £1.

Secretary :



President:
Chairperson
Treasurer:

Vice President & Racing secretary: Dave Collinge, Hill Foot Farm, Twiston, Clitheroe.
( racingsecretary@blackburnanddistrictctc.org.uk )
Welfare Officer:
Helen Lang
Registration Officer:
Helen Lang
Promotions Officer / Webmaster:
Paul Smith
( webmaster@blackburnanddistrictctc.org.uk )
Social Secretary:
Anne Stott
Magazine Editor :
Helen Dawson-Smith
( clubmag@blackburnanddistrictctc.org.uk )





Tony Stott, Field Cottage, 16 Hygiene Place,
Clayton-le-moors, Accrington, Lancs., BB5 5HW.
Tel: 01254 232537.
Ken Hartley
Anne Stott
Caroline Collinge

Committee Members :
Carl Helliwell, Richard John, Mick Bradbury

Website :
Http://www.blackburnanddistrictctc.org.uk
The committee, or Activity providers, as CTC H.Q. refers to them, looks after the day to day running of the
club; however, any suggestions, ideas, complaints, relevant information, issues to be brought up in front of the
committee or offers of help for any of the many events, should be directed to the club secretary or one of the
officials named above, some of whom are pictured below.
(Inside back cover)