An excellent turn-out of 8 for an away ride! The rather flat first half of the ride presented few issues (quietly forgetting a couple of leader errors!) until the threatened rain showers arrived shortly after Minety. Thereafter a slipping seatpost, hedge stops, a GoPro issue, clothing changes and impromptu photo opportunities puntuated progress towards the late breakfast stop (1130 - 1230) at Lechlade Garden Centre. The attractive breakfast options at somewhat old-fashioned prices proved as popular as ever.

Emerging from the cafe, further rain threatened but never materialised. Jez carried out reconnaissance missions ahead of the peloton and was eventually rewarded by a puncture. Meanwhile the tension mounted steadily as the steep climb of Clyffe Pypard was approached. Louis, eager to exorcise the malevolent spirit of his crash on the descent of this hill in 2021, headed the pack but then inexplicably diverted off towards Bellcroft Farm. Slightly later he emerged in fine form at the top of the intended climb (see photo). The fast descent into Wroughton was followed (to the ride leader's surprise!) by the brutal climb of Prior's Hill and the ex-airfield roads across Thorney Park - roads new to Corallian I think. Thereafter the familiar route through Chiseldon, past Fox Hill, through Broughton to Shrivenham presented no difficulties.

Thank you to everyone for their good company and understanding on a slightly chaotic ride.