Challenge Ride 22nd July 2017 - Col de Coldharbour, Col de Mote & More?

As the term progresses and we get closer to the school holidays rider numbers traditionally drop; with other activities and events of offer it's just down to the hard core!

That was pretty much the case today, with the exception of two of our newer riders Alfie and Alice, who signed up for their first ascent of the Col de Coldharbour.

We split into three groups; Michele rode our regular Col de Coldharbour route, I set off on a longer route which adds the Col de Mote, Calvin and Malcolm set off on something of a mystery ride as neither were quite sure where they were going, the target was Plaxtol via Ightham Mote.

My group heading up to the Col de Mote

Michele's group headed up the lane followed by my lot.  It took us virtually the whole climb to catch them up and when we finally overtook them they were riding beautifully; putting all that group riding practise into action and making good progress up the lane.  We had a quick pitstop at the barn, Ivo was not on top form so hung back to hook up with Michele's group, never a good idea to set out on a challenge if you are feeling under par.

All went smoothly, I got to chat to the kids and hear about their plans for the summer and before long Ightham Mote cam into view.  As we headed out towards the Col de Mote we spotted Francesca and her parents out for a walk, followed by a gentleman who called out "that's the way, catch 'em young", as he gave us a cheery and enthusiastic wave.  Just round the corner we hit the Col de Mote.  This is a long climb that starts on a grassy field and then heads into a spinney where the path is quite muddy and steep.  I got the job of chasing Joshua (Patrick was blaming his gears for slower than normal progress) and he and I made it to the top non stop.  The others quickly followed and we compared notes about the tricky bits and how far we'd got.  A couple of horse riding ladies came up through the spinney so we were able to hold the gate open for them, seems like everyone loves bike riders today!

Next came the descent, which is slightly nerve racking the first time, but they made a good job of it, with everyone reaching the bottom intact and still smiling.  We met Calvin's group who were just starting their climb of Col de Mote.

It was time to head for home and we did so pretty speedily.  We made a couple of brief stops to administer Percy Pigs and then split the group before the Col de Coldharbour; those with lots left in the legs took the slightly wagglier route home while I headed down the road with Lucy and Ed (Johnny).

Back at the pump track, Michele was sitting on fence looking very relaxed after a good ride with her group.  Jez was next back with the breakaway group and then we waited a little longer for Calvin and co.   I'm sure we'll never know where they went but they did make it back without mishap.

A very enjoyable way to end the term, great hill climbing kids! See you next term.