Where it went, I don't know, but I've managed to have a very enjoyable year on two wheels with no bones broken and not that many punctures to contend with. I've ridden in the cold, in the rain, in strong wind and on the hottest days of the year, and occasionally on those rare perfect days for cycling with fair temperatures and little or no wind. I've tried a couple of new cafes for the mid-ride coffee and cake (always delicious) and have increased my cycling wardrobe possibly beyond what is reasonable for a 61 year old leisure cyclist! And I've enjoyed every minute of it!
Highlights of the year;
1 - The Scotland trip - five fantastic rides through some truly spectacular scenery, especially the last ride over the top from Grantown to Culloden and back via Slochd and Carrbridge.
2 - Sundown 60 - 60 miles through the stunning Yorkshire Wolds, plenty of climbing ending with fish and chips, beer and a beautiful sunset. I've booked on next year's event already!
3 - Cat & Fiddle Challenge - I finally got to cycle over the Cat & Fiddle, through some lovely scenery. Only the start and end disappointed, riding through the outskirts of Stoke, but not enough to spoil a cracking day out.
Honourable mention - Bangor On Dee - a lovely pub by the side of the river in Bangor On Dee (must stop for a coffee and sandwich next time) and superb vistas of the Dee at the border between England (Farndon) and Wales (Holt).
Goals review
Ride 5200 miles - achieved, on 30th December. To be honest, at the start of December I was only 49 miles short, and if I hadn't reached 5200 it wouldn't have been the end of the earth. I'll never chase miles for the sake of it, otherwise enjoyment will be sacrificed, and if you don't enjoy it what's the point!
Ride a century - didn't do this, but I did two rides of 75 miles, both very enjoyable. Again, I'm not losing any sleep over not riding 100 miles, I'll probably go for it next year though.
Ride different places - Scotland again, Bangor-On-Dee twice, Cat & Fiddle and the Roaches and several new areas south of Nantwich meant this was achieved. Not driving out to a start point limits where I can go, however next year I'll aim to do a few more far flung rides, plus will look to extend further into Cheshire and Chester. Above all, as with all goals, I will endeavour to keep it FUN and ENJOYABLE!
