30th July 2013
I can hardly believe it’s almost a year since the last Jennings Rivers Ride, but am really looking forward to taking part in the event for the second time.
Partly that’s because it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful rides in the country but also because I have unfinished business with the route!
Last year the Rivers Ride certainly lived up to its name. The roads ended up turning into rivers as the Lake District threw down some of the worst weather it is capable of. By the time I approached the hardest part of the ride, Newlands and Honister passes, along with two friends, officials had shortened the route for safety reasons. The weather had conspired to stop us completing the whole route.
So this time I want to make sure I finish the 75 mile “Big Day Out” route.
The rain wasn’t the only enemy we faced that day. Sharp pieces of freshly cut hedge littered the road and by the time we had crossed Whinlatter Pass the three of us had already had four punctures.
But despite our troubles the Jennings Rivers Ride was one of the best days cycling I have ever had. The route we undertook was spectacular, the camaraderie with other cyclists great and the food stops well organised and very welcome. And of course it’s all for a great cause – Cumbria Community Foundation.
There’s one final incentive this year. The Tour of Britain will be following in our tracks the next day when some of the world’s top racers cross Honister Pass during the Cumbrian stage of the race. Knowing that we will be going just ahead of them can only add to the atmosphere.
I can’t wait. There’s just the issue of a lot more practicing to do before then.