I allowed the hope to creep in. I always do it, however much I try to discipline myself and prepare for the worst. I really thought we’d be out in groups of 6 from early March and frankly, by now, I think a good proportion of the country is looking at the harm wrought by lockdowns and wondering at what point the medicine becomes worse than the disease.
I know not being able to cycle in groups is not the biggest hardship, but it’s a symptom of life being on hold indefinitely and, at some point we need to get back to normality. The majority of us in Penge CC are in reasonably good shape, physically and mentally, but even amongst our community I sense a growing feeling of desperation.
Just hold tight for a few more weeks and take advantage of some decent looking weather to get those wheels turning in readiness. Message a pal and break out the lycra if you can.
New Appointments
At least now we can start to plan ahead and on that front, I have some excellent news. I put the call out for a new social secretary to organise some sorely-needed partying. I am absolutely bowled over than we now have both David Watts and Lisa Minnett confirmed for this key role. There will be some fun again.
I’m also cautiously optimistic that I have someone in the frame to help with the Sunday morning club rides organisation. This too is a key role and I hope to sort this in the next week.
Responsible Club Activities
In the meantime, there is no reason to be lonely or inactive. Winter seems a distant memory already and there is still plenty to do if you’d prefer to stay inside.
Yoga at Dragonfly
Loving this. Still Mondays and Wednesdays. Look at Katie’s post if you fancy joining in.
Turbobeat Mondays
I draw your attention to Inge’s enthusiastic endorsement on Facebook.
The sessions from 6:15pm with Paul are also fully funded by the club. There is no limit to the numbers we can have on these sessions, so come and give it a try. It’s open to the turbobeat regulars as well of course.
Register that you’d like to attend on RiderHQ and I’ll be in touch with details.
Zwift Friday meet-ups
Rachel is developing a strong contingent of regulars on Zwift and will be there again at 6:30 tonight. Look for her guide to Zwift on Facebook to get yourself into the group. Welcome to the jungle!
Coffee at Rule #19
We’ve blown the float but the coffee and cakes are without equal. Probably a good time to book the steed in for a some springtime TLC
Elite/ Penge CC in Spain
2nd to 9th October 2021
Something else to look forward to. A week in Southern Spain enjoying the blissfully warm early autumn between beach and mountains with clean, empty roads, some challenging riding, great company and limitless quantities of Rioja.
Paul Mill and the team at Elite have organised 3 of these holidays for Penge CC before and they are highly recommended.
Let me know if you fancy it and I’ll connect you with Paul.
I’ll post a video this weekend!
Closing Thoughts
So, back to cautious optimism tempered by the knowledge that we are in uncertain times. Think on this though – if Palace can burgle such an unexpected win against Brighton as they did last Monday, secured in the 95th minute of one of the most one-sided games of all time, (we were being shredded) there’s always room for some optimism.
I’m doing it again. I just can’t help it. Have a great weekend
James Hanscomb, Chair of Penge Cycle Club.