Saturday 24th September - Tonbridge to Penshurst Ride Out

Fantastic turnout this morning for our first Ride Out of the new term.  Twenty young riders signed on, with an assortment of parents and volunteers to keep them company.

We split into three groups; Michele took our youngest riders: Franklin, Cayden, Thomas, Dylan, Alex, Leo & Betsy.  The stronger riders went with Calvin: Freja, Dan, Kieran and Joshua.  Everyone else joined me: Oliver, Lucy, Anna, Zara, Rosemary, Caitlin, Eloise, Albert and Fred.

The park was busy with runners when we set off, Calvin left first, followed by Michele, my group left last.  We quickly caught up with Michele as we headed out of the park and into the woods.  The recent good weather means the path is still dry and fast rolling, so before long we had reached Barden Lake.  We formed up to make a large group and were lucky to make it the half a mile along the lane without meeting any traffic.  The next challenge for my group was the steep embankment next to the lake.

 

On top of the world! Great climbing from everyone to make it to the top of Penshurst Hill, Albert seems to be having a nap!

 Everyone got a run up and pedalled hard to make it to the top before whizzing down the other side.  We could see Michele's group behind us now so we pushed on toward Penshurst.  I gave everyone the option of riding to the top of the hill or half way and then set Hannah off first, closely followed by Albert. We met Calvin's group coming back down, and when we reached the halfway point everyone decided to carry on.  Fantastic to see all the riders at the top, relaxing and taking time to refuel.

Back at the park!

Energised by fruit jellies we headed back to Tonbridge Park at top speed and arrived back just within the schedule at 11.25am


Fantastic riding from everyone as usual.  Many thanks to all the parents and volunteers who made it happen.  Next week, we'll be back at Stocks Green, hope to see you then.