Crew: 3 Sheds, Bern, Stunt
Route: BL, Old Road, Zig, Teggs, snicket, Crooked Yard Road, Charity Lane, Narnia, Hardingland, Lower track, Smithy
Conditions: Tropical, misty higher up, Some big puddles and washed out trail sections.
Notes: After last weeks new term full turnout, the skiving has started (although accompanied by multiple notes of legitimate excuses)
To save the pride of TNR, big events Bern makes a special effort, and with 3 sheds its not just a solo or duo affair.
Evening skies are worth the sweat of the climbs, layers of steamy haze smother the plain set against a clear sky and reddening sun.
Teggs is very dry, then to the loud hoots of early owls, we venture into the jungle like snicket to see if it is passable. Trail is better than expected, although we come across an aggressive native who is unimpressed by our presence and after a good argument! Diplomacy failed and there was a “full and frank” exchange of views with one of our number. 🙁
Unscathed but debating the need for updating of 150 year old horse vs pedestrian logic its another slog up.
Lights on up charity, a lot of fresh stones and soil have been washed onto it from Tuesdays storm, into which deep gulleys have been cut, all rideable, but a bit edgy!
Narnia damp but not muddy, lower gravel section badly washed out.
Fresh logging by Witches cottage, Hardlingland seemingly unaffected by the rain, Badger startled at the watersplash, but no one made the steep ascent (we blame the badger!!)
A final loop of the lower forest abandoned in favour of ensuring food (and replacing fluids!)
Wild boar wellington was excellent, the Road to Rio pale ale slightly sweet but very quaffable.
The smallest TNR bill ever and an early night after a ride home in 17 degrees!!