I had things to see and people to do this afternoon, and needed back early. As I wouldn't be there for the full run, I didn't want to call the route, but after Retro suggested Ballymena I overruled him on the basis of a strong SW wind and earned a new nickname - Captain Sensible. I think we had 14 riders including Jonny on his second club ride and Mike on his first.
We set off up the Saintfield Rd and then into the lanes up Mill Rd and across to Boardmills, then Bailies Mills. A puncture on route gave everyone a chance for a chat and for Retro to try out some modern bikes - a whole new world. The pace was nice and steady to keep everyone together, but we split briefly after Annahilt for those feeling frisky to get a taste of the Cornmill. Everyone survived and after a few rapid miles we met the rest at the Kinallen junction.
There a few riders swapped groups, and while Retro ledBones, Digger, Bullet and Comrade Darragh towards Kinallen, Loughbrickland and Scarva (fingers crossed they found their way), I led the others through Dromara to Ballynahinch. With a tailwind and no one looking to hammer it, the Lite group was able to practice a bit of group riding taking turns on the front.
After coffee in Maud's, we took the Ballylone Rd up the berg and across to Saintfield, then a few twists along Ravara Rd to Moneyreagh. From there we split a bit, with Philip and David heading towards Comber, Snake Hips and Mike taking the Ballygowan Rd, while Lanterne (aka El Pistolero) and Mark went over the hills with me.
For a bit of an ad hoc plan, it seemed to work well and the Lite group stuck together well. Thanks to Martin for the photos and well done everyone.
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