What a term!
I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone that’s got involved in the last 3 months, it’s been rad. We’ve smashed a chain of new milestones this year, and I’d like to say a few words on what we’ve achieved.
The term started off with a bang, as 80 bright eyed riders came out for the first ride of the year. After a spin around Bristol, this being a first for many, we headed to the pub for some well earned hydration.
The following Wednesday marked the second ride and our first social of the year. After arriving tight and bright, we departed spoons with clouded vision and stumbled onto the triangle. Lounge.
That weekend the roadies furiously pedalled to the Forest of Dean, meeting up with the MTB crew who had hitched a free lift there to experience the fantastic trails it has to offer. The sun shone and we couldn’t have had a better time.
After first weeks heavy night in Lounge, we opted for a calmer array of socials over the following month. With a trip to Roll for the Soul for some mechanic coaching, a Bike Polo taster session, a meal at sponsors Mission Burrito, a brilliantly curated quiz, a film night and quote Callum Hunter “the best night of my life”: SCORE. The participation of these nights has been great as has the quality of their delivery, thanks Andrew for the fantastic work.
With the club progressing so well over the last few years, it was time to give back to the cycling community. This term marked our FIRST EVER open hill climb. It was a great success with a huge field of riders; thanks Tom Hall and Connor for doing such a good job in organising.
To finish the Hill Climb season our fastest vertical ascenders headed up to the BUCS hill climb in the peak district, returning with a plethora of great positions. The following day alumni member Will Bourne placed an incredible 14th in the National Hill Climb Championships. Chapeau!
We’ve had loads of away trips that have all been great fun. Travelling to the Brecon Beacons, Afan, Bike Park Wales and Snowdonia. Conquering some of the best climbs and descents this country has to offer.
Our development and performance teams have gone from strength to strength taking part in interval sessions, spinning sessions and saturday training rides. The training has proved it’s worth with fantastic results coming from both cyclocross and closed circuit racing.
One further notable milestone from this term has been the creation of the Western Universities Race League. Cam has done a great job of getting local Universities together and the first event two weeks ago was a great success.
Next term holds a multitude of exciting events. Look out for more away trips, Tour de Burrito, our open time trial, loads of racing and there’s even rumours of THE PYRENEES.
So once again, thanks for getting involved. This club solely exists because of people like us that enjoy riding our bikes, and we’ve had a lot of fun doing just that!
Kit note: No news as yet on the kit. Keep an eye on the facebook group for more info.