Four turned out for the lites this week and it was great to see Melissa back to provide some elegance to today’s group. After a wet and cold start for everybody the rain thankfully stopped as we headed south from Forestside towards Daft Eddies. As a change of routine from our normal route up the Saintfield Road drag, we took the Greenway from the Kings Road. I have to say we enjoyed the new wide path, which was very quiet and allowed us to charge on to Comber.
With the sun breaking through we headed down the coast enjoying great views, no wind and sunshine dappling through the trees - perfect.
All was great until a wonderfully considerate driver soaked us with a puddle as we turned into the coffee stop. We’d only just dried off from the earlier rain aaahhh!
We all know Damien likes his coffee stop and he indulged himself with an extra tray bake, the rest of us sticking to just the scones, which were fantastic as ever. After good coffee and conversation, including a discussion on the benefits of using scented poo bags to keep your phone dry, (dog owners will understand).
We rolled out after coffee and headed for the lovely hill out of Whiterocks. Melissa dug deep and put in a great effort with Jim charging ahead going for a PB. As we passed Kilmood a familiar voice and blue flash, in the shape of Retro out on a solo run, overtook us and then kept us company until we headed to Moneyreagh. Yes, the pace increased, he’s a force of nature.
As a further change from our traditional route we took the Knockbracken Road instead of Crossnacreevy and all put in a final blast up the hills to the top of Clontonacally Road.
A great morning out with what turned out to be a lovely day, it doesn’t get much better at this time of year. Thanks everybody 👍🏻.
Also I have to put a special mention in about Sean, Allen and Darragh’s amazing effort today in the 1.5 Loughs Winter 200km Audax, well done superb ride guys.
