We cycled to Ireland

Start/ Finish: Whitestone Pond, Hamstead to The Black Horse, Ireland nr Shefford

Distance: 55 miles

Highlights: getting up early, Hexton Hill, going through the rough, Marcus falling off, good pub

Riders: Flex, Jam, Dan, Marcus

Dan’s Rating: 7/10

It was an early start for us all, meeting at 8am was already too much for one team mate who fell at the first hurdle. With the four of us all at Whitestone Pond we set off straight down North End Way hill towards Golders Green. A descent that certainly woke me up.

The ride started with promise, we got out of London in what felt like no time at all and zig zagged towards Little Berkhampstead. We were making pretty good time when it was necessary to stop for a coffee. After showing the weakness of stopping my comrades even had the nerve to take milk in their coffee! I know, right?!
The tea shop was very pretty, despite being less than halfway through our route.

After such a promising start things took a slightly bumpy turn. Somebody had installed a park where there should have been smooth tarmac. So, instead of turning back, I led us through treacherous fields and narrow tracks. We almost left a man behind when Marcus went down but he clipped himself back in and powered on.

That incident was completely forgotten as the roads become smooth and the sun shone. We flew down Hexton Road hill and ignored the temptations of a great looking pub, we had a few more miles to cover.

The route took us through some very pretty villages and along quite, smooth roads. If you ever get a chance, I’d recommend taking a ride that way; just stay between Hitchin and the A6 and you will most likely find some nice hills and nicer pubs.

Despite falling off, hangovers, early starts and some hills, I’m very pleased to report that we made it to the target pub. The Black Horse in Ireland has a simple garden and pretty good food. On that sunny afternoon, with beers in hand, we were hero’s.

Special mentions:

Ben Meakin – For getting up at 6am to cycle the 23 miles to our actual starting point, then making the additional 22 miles home. For completing 100 miles, I give you some respect.
Flex – For getting up through a hangover and not complaining very much at all.
Marcus – For falling over. Getting back up. Doing the extra, unnecessary 22 miles to Wheathampstead.