The Stragglers' Sunday Ride

Fully fit after my mishap a fortnight prior I was keen to get back on the bike.  So this morning I caught the train out to Thames Ditton to join The Stragglers on their Sunday Ride, and we were blessed with the best weather one could possibly hope for this time of year.  Fog first thing  with the promise that it would burn off quickly and turn in a bright sunny and warm day.

The weather encouraged a good sized group to meet at The Angel.  Once on the road we headed in a general SW direction, past Sandown racecourse, through Esher, towards Cobham then Ockham before turning left for Effingham.  It was here we greated the North Downs, and the first of two climbs - approximately 175m over about 5km.  The second, Box Hill, followed immediately after the descent of the first.  It had a similar profile to the first climb.  Having trained for the Dragon Ride and Gruyere Cycling Tour without riding any hills of note, it is good to know (now) there are a couple decent climbs close to home.

After a cup of tea at the top of Box Hill, we headed back NW via Headley, Leatherhead, Oxshott and Esher before joining up with the first section of our ride near Sandown.

It was a fantastic route and I enjoyed the company of The Stragglers.  Thanks to Ray and Sue for letting us join you, and Dave Thomas for the invite.  Moreover it was great to be back on the bike.

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