We started with the best of intentions at 8am , Cahill joined us on his new steed, Eamon , Tim , Brian S , Liz (and myself naturally). Starting up the Burma and along the wall progress was slow with deep mud . Tims very fine Rene Herse tyres could have done with some tread and he did a fair bit of walking . Cahill got a sidewall puncture and withdrew gracefully with Eamon before we hit Mourne Park. Then headed into Attical and through the Silent Valley , neglecting a visit to Ben Crom as we were already well off target time . Another change to the route meant we missed Donard Forest as Peter was chasing us ( but only after an trip form Gilford and a quick loop in Rostrevor 🙂 ) and we agreed to meet him in Newcastle for a Coffee and several buns .
Across to Tollymore and then a very muddy green lane on the Ulster way to Castlewellan . While Liz, Brian and I headed to the back gate Peter headed onto the trails and TIm went by the road with his slippery tyres. Of course he subsequently got lost —and found later on when we regrouped on the Bog Road . The sun stayed out for most of the day which was very nice after recent drownings.
These gravel routes are really all day events and only to be enjoyed at party pace anyway . The racers were all away to Belcoo thank God!
