The Highwayman Magazine - Summer 2019

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THE HIGHWAYMAN

PA R I S BREST PA R I S 2019 t h e

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TIMES ARE A CHANGING

CLASSICS CORNER

The re-organisation of CTC Devon

Human bike magnet attracts a stunner

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WELCOME v o l u m e 6 7 n u m b e r 3

Hello to you all. Again, another late issue and this time somewhat later than usual.

Please accept my sincerest apologies.

It has been a busy few months with my work as a hotel designer, with projects completing in London and meetings required out in the Middle East, it has been three months of constant travelling and staying in unfamiliar surroundings. I’m glad to be back at home, in Devon.

I’m also very glad to be back out on my bike - beleive you me, it is a tonic for the soul!

As usual with my work I get to travel to other countries in the world. Again and again I see the same old story. Huge disparity between the excessively rich and the out right empoverished. It really put’s a perspecive on life and makes me greatful for all the things I usually take for granted. I realise how lucky we are to have a cycling club and companions to cycle with, to travel in our own country freely and appreciate the beauty that is on our doorstep. This is what truly free people do.

Be safe, be kind, be a cyclist.

Shaun East

CHAIRMAN:

EDITOR:

LAST COPY DATE:

KEVIN PRESLAND

SHAUN EAST

AUTUMN| Number 04 | 10th November

Hind Street House

5 Bridge Terrace

PUBLICATION DATE:

Hind Street

Tuckenhay

AUTUMN | Number 04 | 15th November

Bovey Tracey TQ13 9HT

TQ9 7EH

COVER PICTURE:

T: 01626 833749

T: 07748816396

PBP Sunrise - Graham Brodie

E: kevin.hindstreet@btinternet.com

E: thehighwayman@yahoo.com

SECRETARY:

SUBSCRIPTIONS:

GRAHAM BRODIE

GEOFFREY SHARPE

10 Courtney Road

35 Claredon Road

Newton Abbot TQ12 1HP

Ipplepen TQ12 5QS

T: 01626 335130

T: 01803 812743

E: brodie@bikerider.com

E: geoffsharpe35@gmail.com

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MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION: ELIZABETH RASHLEY

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OBITUARIES

Roger Wyman:

Ken Dean

Sadly as some of you will have heard, Roger Wyman passed away earlier today after suffering an accident at home.

We understand he had a fall, - he was transferred to Derriford by Air Ambulance but they were not able to save him.

There was also news of the passing of Ken Dean. He had been a prolific time triallist right up into his 70’s.

Ken had been living in a home in Torquay after suffering a stroke.

His funeral is at Torquay Crematorium on 30th July at midday.

He was definitely one of the clubs most colourful and at times controversial characters, and he will certainly be missed.

He was 71 and lived in Kingskerswell, and had been associated with CTC Torbay for around 20 years.

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SWAN LAKE TIME TRIAL WORDS: GEOFF SHARPE

Well, what a day we had.

The 2019 Swan Lake Time Trial went well.

The success of the debut event has inspired us to make it an annual event. It has been suggested next year we could enter the power boats into the event, making it our first Duathlon!

After retiring to the cafe the results were announced by our Time Marshall, Jean Jackson. The prizes were given out to the winners, a pack of Rolos and a free ice cream for each of the winning team members.

I did hear a few comments like “we was robbed” and “we should have a re-run” but we can’t all be winners.

Below are the times and a photo of the winning team.

1st: Captain Brian Fisher with Geoff Sharpe and Derek Gibbings Time: 2.06:9 2nd: Captain John Bartlett with Steve Maddock and Liz Rashley Time: 2.08:69 3rd: Captain Chris Jackson with Graham Brodie and Gill Beesley Time: 2.08:95 4th: Captain John Beesley with Adrian Winzer and Rob Swayne Time: 2.11:13 5th: Captain Ian Young with Paul Harman and Ursula Gibbings Time. 2.12:07 It’s worth mentioning that the winners were also the oldest!

- Geoff (“we can’t all be winners”) Sharpe.

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REORGANISATION OF CTC DEVON

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WORDS: KEVIN PRESLAND

name and new name for CTC Devon was overwhelmingly voted to be South Devon CTC. The full proposals that were adopted appear on the following page, complete with the new name inserted for clarity.

The value over the years of the mutual support between Exeter and Torbay is acknowledged, and it was held that the two groups should continue to work co-operatively in particular with regard to the continuation of the Highwayman magazine and in the organisation of events.

Subsequently the CTC Devon committee have held their last committee and have established the details for the transition.

For the launch of the new South Devon CTC a boundary ride was participated on Saturday 28th & Sunday 29 September.

The route is based on the collective outer reaches of Torbay, Teignbridge, Dartmoor and the South Hams.

At the SGM held on 9 July 2019 at Chudleigh Knighton Village Hall the motion was confirmed to rename CTC Devon Member Group to South Devon CTC. At the same time CTC Torbay will merge with and continue as South Devon CTC, meanwhile CTC Exeter will become fully independent of the renamed member group. Effectively this removes a tier of CTC management within Devon. Meanwhile Plymouth and South Dartmoor Informal Groups will now operate under South Devon CTC. The date of the transition will be 1 October 2019, with sharing of the account completed at the end of September.

An article of the ride will follow in the next edition of The Highwayman!

As well as the vote in favour of the proposal there was an open forum where names for the new group were put forward, the suggestions considered were:

1. Torbay and District CTC 2. Torbay and South Devon CTC 3. South Devon CTC 4. Torbay CTC

Three rounds of votes followed in which the lowest scoring name was removed in each subsequent vote. The selected S P R I N G

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REORGANISATION OF CTC DEVON WORDS: KEVIN PRESLAND

Proposals adopted for the re-organisation of CTC in Devon on 9th July 2019 1 - That the CTC Devon Member Group is renamed South Devon CTC whereupon the Torbay Informal Member Group will be dissolved subject to the following: 1.1 - That the change shall occur on 1 October 2019; 1.2 - That the funds held by CTC Devon shall be split equally between the new South Devon CTC and CTC Exeter Member Groups; 1.3 - That CTC Torbay funds shall transfer to the South Devon CTC; 1.4 - That the CTC Devon tricycle in the keeping of CTC Torbay shall be retained by the new South Devon CTC; 1.5 - That the Exeter trophies be passed to CTC Exeter, and the remaining Torbay and Devon Trophies be passed to the South Devon CTC; 1.6 - That the other Informal Member Groups in CTC Devon shall continue as Informal Member Groups in South Devon CTC, namely CTC Plymouth and CTC South Dartmoor. (so encompassing all postcodes except EX) 2 - That South Devon CTC and CTC Exeter continue to work co-operatively in the Devon area to fulfil the objectives of both clubs, part of this will be reflected in the Highwayman magazine as follows: 2.1 - That The Highwayman magazine shall continue to represent both CTC Exeter and South Devon CTC (including CTC Plymouth and CTC South Dartmoor) with the editorial and publication teams drawn from either or both CTC Exeter and South Devon CTC. 2.2 - That the future format of the Highwayman magazine be reviewed to best achieve its objectives, with a view to implementing changes by October 2019.

3 - That South Devon CTC and CTC Exeter will continue to jointly organise an Events calendar within which both groups will be promoted. The organising MG will carry all liabilities and profits for the events they organise.

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PACE JUDGING & FREEWHEELING WORDS: SHAUN EAST

Torbay CTC Annual Pace Judging and Freewheeling Competition Sunday 11th August 2019 Pace Judging: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th

Geoff Sharpe Kevin Presland Graham Brodie Caroline Twigger David Twigger Steve Main Richard Coverdale Steve Maddock Rob Legg Kate Brodie - Scratched Dave Prudden - Scratched

Freewheeling: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th

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Rob Legg Steve Main Kate Brodie Caroline Twigger Richard Coverdale David Twigger Graham Brodie Kevin Presland Steve Maddock Geoff Sharpe

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NOTICES

N CTC SOUTH DEVO RIDE E PI ANNUAL MINCE R 2019 BE M CE SUNDAY 1ST DE erswell Arch sk ng Ki m fro Starting at 9.00am Sign on from 8.30am Nr Newton Abbot.

0 voucher ich includes a £2.0 £5.00 entry fee wh the half way stop.

To be used at ents Cakes & refreshm re FREE MINCE PIES, nt Ce e Kingskerswell At the finish at th arpe Organiser: Geoff Sh ail.com gm @ 35 Email: geoffsharpe

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COFFEE POT RUNS WORDS: JEAN BRIERLY

2019 Oct 17 Escot Oct 24 Bernaville Nurseries Oct 31 Gittisham EX14 3PD

Combe Garden Centre,The Kitchen Nov 7 Willand ~ Bluebell Restaurant Nov 14 Greendale Farm shop Nov 21 Exmouth ~ Kings Garden Centre Nov 28 Powderham Castle

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Dec 5 Clyst Hydon Village Hall Dec 12 Cullompton ~ Padbrook Hotel Dec 19 Willand Bluebell Restaurant

Annual Christmas Lunch

Bookings to Jean Please Dec 26 No Ride Jan 2 Exminster Golf Club Jan 9 Escot Jan 16 Bernaville Nurseries

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DELIGHTED CYCLISTS WORDS: GRAHAM BRODIE

The Devon Delight 100km & Shore to Moor 200km Audaxes

John managed to raise over £600 for his local school in Ashburton, whilst the ride also raised cash for Rowcroft Hospice and the Devon Air ambulance.

The event was organised by the Torbay CTC, who had a team of helpers working all day to keep the riders moving and serving cream teas at the finish.

Sunday 21st July 2019 A little light rain on Sunday morning didn’t dampen the spirits of the 250 riders on the Devon Delight Bike ride. It was a record turnout for the 100Km event which included a couple of challenging climbs over Haldon, and up the 1:4 Stockton Hill in Dawlish.

The ages of the riders ranged from 9 year old John Sharp from Ashburton, through to 81 year old Brian Fisher from Newton Abbot, both completing the ride in good time.

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Martin King and Helen Armstrong travelled all the way from Chester to ride the event and also raised an extra £120 for Rowcroft Hospice.

The ride was organised under Audax regulations, which means is has to be completed within a fixed time, but there are no awards for coming first. All finishers |

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DELIGHTED CYCLISTS WORDS: GRAHAM BRODIE

received a certificate and a Cycling UK Challenge medal.

An hour before the Devon Delight, 30 riders set out on the Shore to Moor 200Km Audax. The route was similar to the Devon Delight with a stop for refreshments at Stoke Canon, but then took riders over Dartmoor via Princetown. James O’Neill from Paignton managed to get back in just under 9 hours.

For Kevin Presland and Richard Etches it was another good training ride for the Paris Brest-Paris 1200Km, which starts in a months time.

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THE ART OF CYCLING

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NICK NICHOLS

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PA R I S - B R E S T - PA R I S 2 019 WORDS: KEVIN PRESLAND

I had made a pact with myself to never ride the PBP after a rather wearing passage of the LEL back in 2003, well it is said that time heals wounds and so it was that intrigue and want became a stronger voice that those painful memories of the seemingly endless slog of the rolling Lincolnshire and Hertfordshire roads between Doncaster and London and back to Doncaster. And so it was that I nervously took my place on the line having travelled to France with Richard. There were three of us representing Torbay on this year’s quinquennial event: Richard Etches, Graham Brodie and me. Although it went by the title of Paris Brest Paris, the start was outside the city in the extended estate of the Chateaux at Rambouillet. You may recognise the name, for this was the start location for the final stage of this year’s Tour de France, a nod perhaps from that event in its centenary year to its origins in the PBP. S P R I N G

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So back to the start, we had to congregate into our respective groups, mine was J, signifying a 6.15pm start on the Sunday evening. It had been raining for 2 solid days, and then by remarkable good fortune the weather passed just two hours prior to the start and by 6pm the roads were dry and the sun out. Unlike UK Audax Brevet Cards were provided in plastic wallet on line to hang around the neck, this needed to be stamped between our grouping pen and the start line. I was keen not to lose my card, so as soon as I got to the line I hopped off the bike and opened saddle bag for safe stowage of card whereupon our start was announced and riders were off to the cheering crowds, I whipped the brevet card line over my head, into and closed the saddlebag and hopped back on the bike to chase the peloton of 1 - 200 riders. I felt for my clear glasses, they were not there - must have launched them when removing the brevet card. |

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So back to the start, we had to congregate into our respective groups, mine was J, signifying a 6.15pm start on the Sunday evening. It had been raining for 2 solid days, and then by remarkable good fortune the weather passed just two hours prior to the start and by 6pm the roads were dry and the sun out. Unlike UK Audax Brevet Cards were provided in plastic wallet on line to hang around the neck, this needed to be stamped between our grouping pen and the start line. I was keen not to lose my card, so as soon as I got to the line I hopped off the bike and opened saddle bag for safe stowage of card whereupon our start was announced and riders were off to the cheering crowds, I whipped the brevet card line over my head, into and closed the saddlebag and hopped back on the bike to chase the peloton of 1 - 200 riders. I felt for my clear glasses, they were not there - must have launched them when removing the brevet card. they were quite important for good night vision and being bi-focal were my method to read brevet card, undertake repairs etc, so back I went and hunted for 10- minutes to no avail. Off then to a slightly despondent start between groups J and K, that is not how it should have been.

And so here is my story.

My strategy was based entirely around the need for decent sleep stops, and a desire that this is timed for departure at daybreak ahead of the controls closing time.

Day 1 - Busy roads at the start, would have benefited from closed road, then out of the forest and into the open countryside complete with a stiff cross wind. It was hard to hang onto any group as riders were immensely fluid as groups merged and split in the wind or whilst passing others. Hew from Wales caught me and we rode together for a while, but I had to stop to tighten a loose light. My target was to make good time for the first 220km and then get some sleep at Villaines la Juhel. this plan worked well, so I got to bed by 3 for 1.5hrs of fitful sleep.

Day 2 - Nothing is quick at controls, long queues for everything, but breakfast sorted I was off to a good start at 6.30am with over an hour in-hand. Now into agricultural country with long rolling hills, and glorious sunshine. It was good to catch Graham on the road after my sleep, and then at a later control when he was arriving as I was departing, this all dues to his starting some 2 hours later than me and running a very different strategy. Another successful day, over 300km arriving 1.35am, so enough time for a decent 2.5 hour sleep at Carhaix on a camp bed in the corner of the sports hall.

Day 3 - The long one with a 350km target.

I was getting a little slower and indulged in a longer stop at Brest for shower and change of shorts. The long main road between Huelgoat and Brest was tiresome with plenty of hills, so turning at what was just half way to return through those same hills was not to be dwelled upon.

On reaching the summit of Rock Tredud-

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on for the second time in the day I decided to take a short detour to the Col de Tredudon. Fine views, but it has to be said the morning light over the misty lake from the lower main road earlier in the day had been far more dramatic. After a long drag through the rolling countryside, the end result was to only arrive in Tinitineac at 3am, so resulting in less sleep than planned, but still got over 2 hours of deep sleep.

Day 4 - The day that the strategy went awry. A shorter 300km day should have been a straight forward proposition, but developing injuries had not been factored in and had significant effect. At Fougiers I stopped to see the physio about my weak right arm, it could not support my weight on the handlebars so seemed a worthwhile time investment as I was getting concerned it may make it unsafe to complete the ride. Unfortunately the short queue took 1.5 hours. The physio turned out to be masseur, so no real treatment or strapping, which was frustrating. Whilst queing a procession of cyclists had reported to the doctor for dressing of raw hide from the saddle abrasion, I had been suffering similarly and decided I wanted to get some greater benefit from my long time in the queue and so sought this additional treatment. The masseur had been of little use, but greater comfort on the saddle was such a relief. After some post treatment food I left 30 minutes outside time, so needed to catch up. I had noticed that my bike was leaning to the left and I couldn’t straighten it? Huw caught me and we rode together again, this time to Villaines la Juhel, he viewed my position on the bike, and by raising my dropped right shoulder and bringing hip to right I solved back ache and reduced arm ache and got upright again! It had been a tough section physically and mentally, I was so grateful for the support from Huw S P R I N G

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through this weak spell. In reality I was demoralised to lose so much time though, arriving at Montagne au Perche at 10pm, just an hour or so within time. I knew it was not terminal as time allowances had expanded for the latter stages of the ride, but it would mean that I would have to press on for the 80km to Dreux through the night, rather than the intended arrival at 1am for a long sleep there. |

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PA R I S - B R E S T - PA R I S 2 019 WORDS: KEVIN PRESLAND

Day 5: As it happened the result was quite the best of overnight rides. It started with a few forested hills before we arrived in pan flat farming country. With the ground hugging mist, I couldn’t quite tell if I was cycling along causeways surrounded by water, then in the background, strange forms created by the silhouetted trees - plenty of dinosaurs and other giant animals for sure. I kept getting the nods so power napped multiple times, first at Mortagne before leaving, then under a roadside tree, then in the space blanket in a coffee tent at Seononches, then lent up against a roadside wall. In the small village of Maillebois at 2am, a bar and boulanger were open for cyclists, this was it, possibly a bit mad, but I was on holiday and I wanted a beer which I accompanied with a hot dog whilst enjoying the 80s musical accompaniment and cyclists S P R I N G

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s whizzing by, so bizarre. Together with the power surge from the caffeine chewing gum, I kept great pace whilst awake and gradually increased confidence that I would succeed. Richard caught me on way into Dreux and enjoyed his company thereafter to the finish. After the hearty Dreux breakfast we were out again to the chill of sunrise at 8.30am and rode the last 44km at good pace in generally up-beat spirit. There was least roadside support here of the whole ride which was a little surprising, but on arriving in Rambouillet we worked our way through the crowds of finishers and supporters and crossed the line to cheers and a big smile from Dawn who had flown in for the finish.

Graham arrived 1 hour 45 later, so we cheered him over the line, we all three had successfully completed and left proud holders of our weighty finishers medal. |

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The event is rather like a linear festival that cocoons you in its world, but with scale of public support best compared to the London Marathon. It has been an unforgettable experience, here are some of the stronger memories - positives first: 1 - Public support and adulation, slapping hands with roadside kids, cheering clapping spectators, regular drink and occasional food tables in front of people’s houses, even throughout the night.

2 - The arrival at Villaine la Juel where brass band started up as we descended into the town square, then a corridor of cheering and clapping spectators to the control, quite overwhelming.

3 - So many cyclists, there was a cyclist in my field of view all the way to Brest despite the circa 24 hour spread by then.

Large peletons zipping through, catch a wheel for a while, then in a small group or alone, just regular change, but ever vigilant for the surprisingly common occurrence of slow riders in the middle or left of the carriageway, and for those that stopped to sleep in the road, or just leaving the bike laid at the side of the road.

4 - Villages that set up bars on their town square which created a real buzz, would have been nice to have had time to stop.

5 - The multi-nationality and broad spectrum of riders + their bikes and set-ups.

6 - The moon, fabulous clear nights cycling on pot hole free roads, red moon rise on the third night was amazing, each night the moon rose later giving us ever better starry skies.

7 - The relentless headwind that cruelly swung around for the return ride.

8 – On the return route the majority of controls had a series of hills, so just as you thought you were nearly there so the climbing legs were repeatedly required.

9 - Relief that the legs held out, but frustration at other weaknesses that prevailed for the last 400km. Loss of arm strength meant sitting up which put more pressure and wear to the seat + created a crooked S P R I N G

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d stature with painful lower back. Became a battle of wills to keep things going.

10 - The cold nights, lowest measured by roadside chemist sign was 7 degrees, but it certainly dropped below that.

V I T A L

S T A T I S T I C S :

Total Distance:................................1220km Total Elevation:..............................11,586m Total Times: Kevin Presalnd:..........................87hrs 35m Graham Brodie:..........................87hrs 21m Richard Etches:...........................76hrs 50m Total Race Starter:..................6800 riders Did not Complete:................................28% |

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CAMPING EXPERIENCES WORDS: VESPUCCI

PART TWO Although, the likelihood of being struck by lightening is a million to one. I have never been entirely at ease in a tent during a thunderstorm. One of my worst encounters was en route to Sicily in the 80s. (not the same trip as mentioned in part 1).

touching any metal. Being fried would have certainly altered my travel plans.

Especially as I was well aware that heat produced by lightning was hotter than the surface of the Sun. At last the storm moved away just as the grey fingers of dawn crept across the sky.

I’d camped in a cluster of tall-trees.

During the night, flashes of lightening disturbed my sleep. So being aware of the surrounding trees, I left the tent and moved away from the trees. As the storm continued, I become wetter each minute in my inadequate waterproofs. Whilst waiting, trying to keep a low profile, I played mind games with the cause and effect of thunderstorms, to pass the time.

I counted the interval between flash and thunder clap, five seconds meant it was one mile away. So I made sure I was not

Muddy and dishevelled, I returned to the tent, dismantled it and crammed it into my panniers. Diminishing, distant thunder rolled away to the South. Soon, I found a farmhouse archway entrance, that gave some cover while I waited for the rain to slacken off.

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After a few minutes a friendly farmer appeared and invited me into the family kitchen to have a coffee and warm myself in front of a log fire. The farmers wife found one of their sons spare pull|

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over and dried out some of my clothing. I often find when travelling, when difficult times occur, someone usually brightens up the day with help or hospitality.

It was getting gloomy, soon it would be too dark to travel far, so rather then head back to the road, I struggled with the bike, moved across a rough pasture, over a stream and found a spot behind a clump of trees. I erected the tent once more, brewed more tea and hoped I’d chosen a safe and sensible spot. It was an uncomfortable night, mostly spent listening for footsteps, crunching through the undergrowth. But the dawn was magnificent as I cycled towards the Venice docks called Mestre to catch a ferry to Alexandra, Egypt.

Occasionally, I’ve had cause for concern whilst camping, especially when dodgy characters were around. One such time was on the approach to Venice. It happened near the end of the day and I’d had difficulty looking for a secure spot to camp. After lifting the bike and baggage over a metal barrier, I pitched the tent some 300 metres from the road, at the rear of some skinny trees. I thought I was out of sight from any passing vehicles, but I was wrong. I’d been seen, probably climbing over the barrier.

Easter in 2003; I was returning from Gibraltar to Santander to catch the ferry home. An impressive red sunset told me it was time to camp, as I hadn’t seen any pensions or accommodation in the villages. I found a track that led to a disused quarry. After checking the area, I decided to stop and erect the tent. But then I found an abandoned safe! The top had been opened by powerful tools, probably with the aid of an acetylene torch. In other words, it gave the impression that someone had committed a robbery. But, I felt sure they were long gone and unlikely to return or disturb me during the night. So I rested the bike against the safe, erected the tent and brewed tea.

Whilst brewing tea, I was surprised by two swarthy characters walking towards me. Little, alarm bells rang in my head and I considered grabbing my gaz pistol.

(I always carry one; unfortunately they are illegal in Britain). However, I tried to act unsurprised and casual.

Realising that they were looking at the British flag sticker on the bike, I said,‘ What do you want?’

‘Are you carrying any money on you?’

(I almost said … piss off. But just smiled and said ) ‘Not much …that’s why I’m camping!

Why?’ ‘Mr …it is not safe to camp here.’

‘Look’s ok to me.’

‘Two French campers were robbed recently.’

‘Thank you for telling me.’

(Were you the robbers, I thought)

In 1993 on an American trek across Alabama towards Mexico, I had to change the position where I pitched the tent seven or eight times, due to fire ants.

Each time I carefully cleared to an area of small stones and checked for ants. But no sooner I’d erected the tent little red ‘fire ant’ appeared. They apparently can cause a nasty sting, and originated from Mexico and are spreading across the south like ‘wild fire’ Fire ants was (and is) a good name for those ravenous creatures.

My hands shook a little as I poured myself a mug of tea. They offered me a cigarette, I declined, they turned and walked away.

A few minutes later I heard them drive away. Immediately put out my stove and packed my gear.

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It would have taken effort, time and a certain amount of thought to the location, so far from the road and hidden amongst cactus. So it was unlikely to have been dug for the fun of it?

I decided to pitch the tent between to two pits, thus anyone approaching me in the night would have the pits plus cactus acting as a barrier on three sides of the tent.

To this day I still don’t have an answer to why they were dug there? In Mexico people simply disappear due to criminal activity connected with drugs. That’s why I thought the two pits were graves and I still do!

As I hurriedly prepared to leave the next morning, I nearly slipped into one of the graves, brushed against a Cholla cactus* to stop my fall and a piece attached itself to my left hand. It took a long time to cut the cactus free, using the scissors then the tweezers on my functional Swiss Army Knife to remove the numerous microscopic needles. Months afterwards, back in Britain, my hand still itched.

In September, I was cycling across the Sonorian desert in Mexico when I decided to stop, trundled the bike well away from the road to camp. I reached a clump of bushes dotted with Cholla cactus, (also called jumping cactus because it clings to anyone that brushes against it). Hidden from view, I found two identical pits, the size and shape of graves; freshly dug, with clean and sharp sides. It was obvious that they were dug for a purpose, a couple of metres and similar widths as graves. Another puzzle was they were at 100 kilometres from the nearest habitat.

Also the desert landscape was certainly not grazing or farmland. A quick search around the area, something I always do when camping in the wild, told me that there was no workmen’s digging equipment, pipes, cable laying tools, drilling tools. Therefore, the two identical, grave sized pits dug there struck me as strange and creepy ?

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On the other hand (not a pun) it’s all part of the exhilarating part of camping … however, I could have stayed at home, slept through a repeats of Coronation Street and dreamed of being bitten by a giant cactus!

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RICHARD ETCHES - PBP 2019 INTERVIEW: SHAUN EAST

Real preparation started from April onwards. My aim was to try to ride 200 miles per week.

5. How much of a part does nutrition play in your preparations?

No special plans regarding nutrition. I would try to keep weight to 85kg.

6. What was yuor set up regarding bike and luggage?

Enigma Excell Ti road bike pair up with an Alpkit seat post bag, frame bag with top tube pack.

1. Was this your first attempt at qualifying for the PBP?

7. What was the all time high and the all time low while riding the PBP 2019?

Yes, this was my first attempt at Paris Brest Paris.

High: finishing

2. How long, prior to the event, had you made your mind up to set out for the PBP?

Low: forgetting where I’d parked bike at a control in the early hours!!

8. Could you briefly explain your experience? What was the atmosphere like during the event?

I rode the Acme Grand 1000k audax last June. Completing this level of distance certainly confirmed my thoughts on riding PBP.

Volunteers were brilliant, nothing too much trouble, they made the event, as did the crowds cheering you on and offering refreshments at all hours.

3. Which PBP qualifiers did you complete to gain your SR?

My qualifiers were all pretty flat which pretty much mirrors the PBP route. I rode; 9. What time did you make? the Mad March 200, Heart of England 300, Paddington 400 and the Steam Express Finished in 76hrs 50 mins, I don’t mention the 50 mins!

600.

10. Would you do it again?

4. Other than riding your qualifiers.

Could you describe what a week would look like training for the PBP? Do you aim to achieve a certain amount of miles or a certain amount of hours in the saddle, each week?

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Not sure if I will do again, aim to do London - Edinburgh - London and perhaps some other 1000k plus audax.

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MEMORIES IN THE ATTIC WORDS: GEOFF SHARPE

The 2008 50miles in 4/5hrs

later the last 4 to break the 4 hour barrier; they were Dave Prudden, Andy Ryan, Barry Hocken, and Mark Williams.

I arrived back at 13.06 along with Graham, Mike T and Andrew & Karen Crompton. Brian Fisher managed 4.12, Jan and Les Deering from Plymouth 4.19.

The Exeter pair of Kirby James and Debbie Ironside-Smith completed the ride in 4.25 and Kevin who must of had an off day completed the course in 4.27.

Plymouth group members Larry Clarke and Les Prior clocked in at 4.29 and 4.38 and the last to finish was Chris Bennett on exactly 5 hours. 3 retirements, Steve Main, Nick Nichols and Roger Wyman.

When doing my annual sort out in the attic I came across some old 50 in 4 route sheets and in one case the results of one of the rides.

I have run the event for about 10 years and always tried to introduce a different route each time. How many of you remember the Three Rivers Ride? The rivers being the Dart, Avon and Erme. Also, St Mary and the Bishop and the Grimspound Experience. The results I had found concerned the Edward Burn Ride of 30th March 2008. The route started from Kingskerswell Arch and went through Newton Abbot, along the Teign Valley and up over Haldon via Trusham.

Through parts of Exeter to Crediton, then Tedburn St Mary and back down the valley finishing at the Railway Inn in Newton Abbot.

34 members took part that year and it’s rather interesting to see some of the times taken.

First back was the trio of John Beesley, Rod Pash and Malcolm Mckendry in a time of 3.39, closely followed by John Dodson(3.41) Lee Atkinson (3.42) and Lexi Webber on 3.44. A group of 4 got round in 3.53 (Martin Read, Terry Venn, Roy Russell and Bill Barnes). 5 minutes S P R I N G

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Sadly, Terry Venn and Andrew Crompton are no longer with us and safer still the recent death of our Roger Wyman. Lexi Webber, I understand moved to Spain and Malcolm Mc McKendry, I believe, went back to the Portsmouth area. Most of the others are still around although I haven’t seen Barry Hocken, Mark Williams, Bill Barnes, Andy Ryan and Debbie Ironside-Smith for some years.

Going through these old result sheets sure is evocative stuff!

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CLASSICS’ CORNER WORDS: GRAHAM BRODIE

Welcome to what may become a regular column detailing some of the “classic bicycles” which I’ve restored, or bought..

Steel Raleigh’s are becoming very collectable, and many will argue they give a un-rivalled ride quality. My most recent Raleigh acquisition is a 1990 “Castorama” edition, manufactured in France by “Cyfac” using a Reynolds 653 frameset.

Of more interest is the fact ( hopefully confirmed by the two initials stamped on the bottom bracket ) that the frame was made for Theire Marie, and ridden in the early 90’s TDF and other races. The frame was an Ebay purchase, and really had two options that were common at the time – a Campagnolo based build or a Shimano Ultegra build, so this one has been put together with Campagnolo C-Record parts mainly, with a pair of Campagnolo Delta brakes which cost almost as much as the frame.

bit was finding a decent chainset that wasn’t over priced, and a nice pair of platform pedals with Campagnolo toe straps to finish off, as I don’t really ride the “LOOK” type of pedals that became commonly used for racing in the 90’s.

I also made up a frame “race” number from some 1mm plastic sheet from a model shop, and some vinyl-cut numbers and logos.

A ”653” frameset is a mix of a thinner that normal version of “531” main tubes, with “753” stays, and it was produced following feedback which alleged that “753” was too harsh for some racing stages.

Anyhow - the most important thing now that the weather is improving is to stick the tyres on properly and take it out for a few spins, and keep it away from potholes!

I already had a few bits including C-Record derailleurs, and levers, the hard S P R I N G

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CLASSIC’S CORNER WORDS: GRAHAM BRODIE

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TOURING COMPETITION WORDS: GEOFF SHARPE

2018/2019 CTC Devon Tourist Competition Final positions.

Now that CTC Devon no longer exists the new name is; SOUTH DEVON CTC TOURIST COMPETITION. If you are a member of either CTC Exeter, South Devon, Plymouth or South Dartmoor you will automatically be entered into the competition and score points when you compete in events.

To qualify as a Veteran you must be over 65 on the 1st October 2019 and inform myself to put you into that category.

Teams should have 3 members and you can be a member of up to 3 teams. I just need to know the name of your team and it’s members.

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You must registered with me for the Veteran section and also your team by 1st February 2020.

I hope you will come out and take part in this competition, there’s usually about 16 events and your best 8 scores go towards your total, also there’s over £200 worth of bike shop vouchers to be won - GEOFF SHARPE South Devon CTC Events Co ordinator Email: geoffsharpe35@gmail.com

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TOURING COMPETITION WORDS: GEOFF SHARPE

Overall

Toby Sharp 30 Jill Day 30 (2nd Lady) Dave Watson 30 21 Kate Brodie 29 (3rd Lady) 22 David Mitchell 28 Hilary Durbin 28 Richard Salisbury 28 Kevin Thompson 28 John Beesley 28 Jill Beesley 28 Jean G. Jackson 28 29 Chris Whatley 25 Jacky Whatley 25 31 Chris G. Jackson 23 31 Chris Burton 20 Stella Thompson 20 Rob Simmonds 20 Ursula Gibbons 20 Maurice Bard 20 Ian Hennessey 20

1 Steve Main 77 points (Winner and also 1st Veteran) 2 Graham Brodie 75 3 Caroline Twigger 74 (1st Lady) Richard Etches 74 5 David Twigger 72 6 Geoff Sharpe 71 (2nd Veteran) 7 Rob Legg 65 (3rd Veteran) 8 Kevin Presland 64 9 Dave Prudden 62 Richard Coverdale 62 11 Shaun East 59 12 Steve Maddock 54 13 Clive Long 38 James O’Neill 38 15 Steve Jones 36 16 Nick Tobin 34 17 Mark Pollard 30 TEAMS

1 TOTALLY TORBAY (Geoff Sharpe, Dave Twigger, Graham Brodie) 218 points 2 TORBAY TIPPLERS (Steve Main, Graham Brodie, Dave Prudden) 214 3 NIGHT RIDERS (Dave Twigger, Shaun East, Steve Main) 208 4 THE YOUNG FOGEYS (Dave Twigger, Caroline Twigger, Shaun East) 205 5 TORBAY VETS (Geoff Sharpe, Dave Prudden, Rob Legg) 198 6 TWO PLUS ONE (Kate Brodie, Caroline Twigger, Geoff Sharpe) 174 7 OUTLANDERS (John Cooper, Rob Legg, Steve Main) 152 8 TORBAY LADIES (Kate Brodie, Caroline Twigger, Stella Thompson) 118 9 TENOR ALTOS (John Beesley, Chris G. Jackson, Steve Maddox) 105 10 TRIPLE TROUBLE (Gill Beesley, Lesley Squires, Jean G. Jackson) 56 FUTURE EVENTS Round 1 Sunday 3rd November - Dartmoor Devil 100k (Cat B).

Start 8.00/9.00 from Bovey Tracey Round 2 Saturday 23rd November - Breakfast in Bampton 100k (Cat B) Start 9.00 from Cranbrook Round 3 Sunday 1st December - Mince Pie Ride 60k (Cat A) Start 9.00 from Kingskerswell

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TED’S TOPICS NO.40 WORDS: EDWARD GAMESON

No. 40 – The Top Ten Tips For Safe and

Enjoyable Cycling

3) Practise observation of hazards. Expect the unexpected. Then distance yourself from hazards, or, actively manage them.

4) Ride smoothly. Conserve your momentum - brake only when necessary, and never for ‘comfort’.

5) You go where you look, so look where you want to go. Position your bike safely on the road to see as far ahead as possible.

6) Concentrate on the limit point of vision, and use peripheral vision mostly to deal with the near stuff.

7) Practise bike-handling skills – emergency braking, cornering properly.

8) Know what’s behind you at all times, and let other road users know what you intend, in plenty of time.

9) Ride within your abilities, and seek to improve them.

10) Carry out a basic check of your bike before you ride it, every time.

(Never lose your respect for something that could kill you and that includes your bike).

Ride fast and safe, and above all enjoy

I was fortunate enough a few weeks ago to read that IAM Roadsmart was making available copies of its book, “How to be a Better Cyclist” free to those applying for copies. The story is that the IAM was to have rolled-out, some years ago, a course in advanced cycling to mirror its courses for motorised vehicle users, but later back-tracked. The result is that I have a few copies of this book for loan to anyone who would like to improve their cycling skills.

It was also a trigger for me to put together my ‘top ten’ of tips, both from the book and from the excellent motorcycle training that I’ve so far done through the IAM here in Exeter. I’ve cheated a bit as some of them are more than just one point. Also, some might list others that I’ve missed. The last thing I’d say is that none of these is trivial. To do these properly, and consistently, requires constant practice.

1) Ride with confidence, humility, skill & enthusiasm. You have equality with all road-users.

2) Seek continual improvement of your skills. When something goes wrong, there’s nearly always something you could have done better. Analyse and S P R I N G

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