TA Sunday Ride 9/10/2016

I went out on my own at about 7AM, missed appointment with the Pauls (E and J) and decided to see if I had the legs for the club ride. after a difficult Saturday and a bad night's sleep. Went up Crimp Hill and around Savill Gardens to return through the Great Park, back in Windsor at 8 AM, still unsure if I could face the club ride.
In front of the Bike Co I found Paul E, Paul J, Simon K, Simon M, Simon T, John, Alex, Francis, Ed and Mike. After a bit of a chat we started off following Route #1 to Eton Wick, Dorney (Grid to Grid), Taplow, Cookham, Marlow, Dolesden, down Pishhill, Henley, Aston, Warren Row and back in Windsor via Fifield.
Up to Station Hill in Taplow I still struggled a bit, but felt better going up Winter Hill. We did Frieth Hill for the first time of the Autumn and I finally found my legs. Notwithstanding I dislike it, I ascended Dolesden OK and after that it felt better and better. I burnt a couple of matches not to miss the train down Pishill, train that came to an abrupt stop as we came across runners for the Henley Half and the usual Henley traffic. Up to Aston I managed to avoid the gravel and posted a satisfying PB (first club ride for the Olmo I used to ride in Italy, now officially the Winter bike), and the time trialling back into Windsor was slightly more sedate than usual. Coffees (and a jacket potato for Francis) followed at Cinnamon Cafe. 110 Km in total, very nice weather, but a bit chilly with a persistent breeze from the North.