Sometimes, when you think you’re having a tough time, something happens that makes you realise what a complete fraud you are. So, I had a crap week last week. Boo hoo. Actually, it turned out ok in the end, there were some sticky moments, no worse than that. I wasn’t really complaining, but making the point that one of the joys of cycling is that it can lift you out of the daily routine and give you a chance to gain some perspective. Whether your worries and stresses are real or imagined, the chance to get out on a bike, to enjoy the challenges and companionship of some like-minded friends can be a wonderful tonic.
On Sunday 14th October, we ride out to remember our dear friend, Barry Covington, who took his leave of us far too soon. Barry died just over a year ago doing one of the things he most loved; riding in a monstrously tough bike race. How can a mere ride around our favourite lanes allow us to get some perspective on such an awful tragedy? People talk about ‘coming to terms’ with such events and ‘finding closure’.
I don’t know about that. A memorial seems to me to be both a group response and a deeply personal thing. It allows us to take time out to actively contemplate; to remember the person, to repeat routines that were once familiar with that person and to consider ourselves and our own lives in the light of what has passed. It also allows us to show solidarity with those for whom the pain of loss will be no less acute than it was a year ago. Close friends and family will be joining us to repeat the wonderful ‘bitter-sweet’ day we had last year when our Sunday rides converge at the Velodrome in Herne Hill for us to toast our absent friend.
Don’t feel you must have been Barry’s best buddy to get an invite; you may be new to the club and not have had the good fortune even to meet him. Just put your Penge jersey on and come.
Details of the rides and how to sign up
If you can help with producing food, let me know or speak with James Marshall or Emma Porter directly.
Before that, there is the small matter of another Sunday for us to go and do what we do.
Have a great weekend
James
Remember to sign up to the ride of your choice
Sign up before 5pm on the Saturday night before the ride on Sunday. Please cancel if you cannot make the ride having signed up. If a ride fills up, either find another that suits your ability, or go onto a waiting list. I will always try to find another leader so no one misses out.
Remember – rides are available to book from the Sunday evening the week before so book early if you can.
| Ride Name | Leader | Distance & Speed | Departure time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long 4 | Gareth Wall | 55 miles @ 17mph | 07.45am |
| Long 3 | TBC | 55 miles @ 15mph | 07.50am |
| Long 2 | Andy Harding | 55 miles @ 13mph | 08.00am |
| Long 1 | Jonathan Douglas-Green | 50 miles @ 11mph | 08.00am |
| Short 4 | TBC | 35 miles @ 16mph | 07.45am |
| Short 3 | TBC | 35 miles @ 13mph | 07.50am |
| Short 2 | Liz Begley | 35 miles @ 12mph | 08.00am |
| Short 1 | Cathy Ellis | 35 miles @ 11mph | 08.10am |
| Steady | Ann Ferris | 25 miles @ 10mph | 08.15am |
There are a few TBCs still – please let me know if you are available to lead one of these.
Cyclocross training – Saturday 6th October 8am at SE20 Cycles
Stephen Crispin will be tutoring a group of cyclocross wannabees (myself included) in Crystal Palace Park on Saturday morning. Meet at the shop at 8.00am. This is in preparation for the next round of the cyclocross league at Herne Hill Velodrome on Sunday. If there is a cruel streak in you, come and watch as there are a few of us taking part. I’ll be the one thrashing Emma and making her eat her words!! Details are HERE
Fireworks Saturday 3rd November at Croydon Recreation Ground in Beckenham
Each year we provide volunteers to help at the fireworks display and earn money for the club. If you can help, check out the details on the website HERE. It’s always a great event and the work is hardly taxing.
Turbobeat Wednesday 10th October
With the evenings getting darker and cooler, there’s no better way to keep fit. There are just a few places left in a new block of 4 Turbobeat Wednesday night sessions at Crystal Palace. Book it now. HERE
Strava Leaderboard
Adam, I fear a garmin glitch has deprived Jeffrey of a deserved clean sweep at the top. If not, I humbly apologise and bow to a truly magnificent week! Nicola and Jarek – not sure I’ve seen you here before. And Ben. Clare continues to impress and astound – good riding all round.