The promise of a hilly route didn’t put off the regulars with 12 Jags signed up (less those who wimped out, mentioning no names ST!), plus a few extras that usually ride with Leopards. Paul R led the faster group which included Chris B (after a long lay off from the Cheetahs), Amardeep, Rory, Simon R and Sarah H, leaving Jane and Andi with Richard H, Ian W, Barny, Patrick, and Tim, joined for the first half by Karl (who needed to be back early), and briefly picking up Sean en-route.
The clouds looked quite a bit more threatening than expectations gleaned from the weather forecast would indicate, but everyone pressed on hopefully up Chalk Pit Lane to Frieth and on to the delightful Dolesdon. Then to Christmas Common - where Karl turned for home - and so to Stokenchurch and a marvellous swoop down Aston Hill. All the while clouds were ominous but rain jackets stayed in pockets.
Now along to Chinnor and Bledlow with Richard doing sterling work on the front. Roads looking suspiciously damp, and the odd spot now and again. Still no rain. The group turned for the second major climb of the day. Up Perry Lane, Bledlow Ridge Road and on to Wiggins Lane where there was the obligatory photo shoot.
Now just an easy run down the Chinnor Road to the Walled Garden. By this time the rain shower was chasing, however, a quick tactical decision to go down the main road (faster) the group outran the rain and arrived dry(ish) in time to miss the queue for coffee. The homemade jam donuts were a triumph with the correct ratio of good quality jam (rather than runny red-flavoured jam!) to nut. The sausage rolls and gluten free pistachio cake also gained plaudits.
Tales were exchanged with other groups, a lot whom caught the showers. Then for the ride home, up B*llocks Hill Road (no, not a typo Paul, just bitter experience), by now just Jane, Richard and Andi, everyone else having turned for home via HW and Flackwell.