Early on Saturday morning the cyclists gathered at the Hawker Centre in Kingston to start their day’s ride. It was a perfect spring day, with and glorious sun in the late afternoon. Setting off in groups of around 20, the cyclists made their way along the well signed route to Brighton.
The scenic route followed the river to Kingston Bridge, crossing the Thames and passing historic Hampton Court. The route continued along into leafy suburbs into Surrey. Once the cyclists reached the North Downs, it was a gentle climb to Ranmore Common where they were welcomed by their mid morning break.
Once refreshed, everyone enjoyed the exhilarating 2 mile downhill stretch south towards Dorking and on into the Sussex countryside. After more scenic quiet roads and pretty villages, the cyclists reached Colgate Village Hall and took a break for a well deserved lunch!
Having completed 31 miles, it was now time for the final push towards Brighton, through St Leonards Forest and on to the South Downs. Here the participants were faced with a steep, grueling climb up and over the infamous Devil’s Dyke! After this last, exhausting push it was down hill all the way to finish at Brighton Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College.
The first cyclist to cross the finish line was Alan Wilkinson, who arrived in Brighton shortly after 12.30pm, in a very speedy time. The remainder of the cyclists followed through in steady times. After celebrating with a well-earned refreshment, the cyclists received their medals and swapped stories about Devils Dyke. Many participants opted to stay in Brighton for a quick drink or a visit to the beach.
Enormous thanks to everyone who made this event possible – all the cyclists and their generous supporters. Thanks also go to all the volunteers who helped make this event possible. Thank you to the Hawker Centre, Colgate Village Hall and Brighton Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College. Thank you also to Doves Farm for donating cereal bars and to our continued supporters Zoca for donating a fundraising prize.
Thank you to everyone who took part and we hope you had a fantastic day and see you again in May 2013! Find out more about our other cycle rides.
