Some of you will be aware that a new organization has been bubbling under for some months. At the end of last year, myself (Andrew Burns) and a few colleagues set up Cycle Training Wales as a cooperative social enterprise to deliver community projects and cycle training services at all ages and levels.
Compared with England, there is a notable lack of cycle training provision in Wales, especially from within the ‘third sector’. By plugging this gap, we intend to provide a professional and increasingly relevant service to individuals, businesses, and public sector organizations. (more…)
Posted 25 January 2008 by Andrew Burns
Hensol Loop. Meet 10.00–10.15 on the Bute Park side of the Sophia Gardens footbridge. We’ll head out in the direction of Peterstone-super-Ely, then take the scenic loop around Allt Laes and Tredodridge. We’ll try to find the mysterious lost lake situated on the edge of Hensol Forest in the Vale of Glamorgan. We might have to walk a bit! We’ll also stop off at Wild Fig Deli. Hard: 40 km (21 miles). Contact: Nick Canham 029 20222016.
Posted 24 January 2008 by Nick Canham
Sunday 20 February. Eight of us braved the heavy rain and strong winds with the aim of meandering through Caerphilly. Although off – road, the hill that leads towards the town is always good exercise and the regular use of barriers on leaving Cardiff can be a challenge to manoeuvre. The Castle was not being invaded by tourists which gave us an opportunity to travel its perimeter at speed whilst marvelling at its beauty and Machen and Draethen were places that I had only ever heard about but can now say that I’ve cycled to. The log fire at The Hollybush Pub proved very popular and welcoming. (more…)
Posted 22 January 2008 by Germaine Walsh
Our first meeting of 2008 was well-attended and a lively hands-on event. The main focus was on bike cleaning and basic maintenance, including the all important task of changing an inner tube. Thanks to Andrew Burns for leading the discussion, and for all the other useful tips from participants. For those who couldn’t attend, or as a useful record for those who could, the information is now available as an article entitled Look after your bike thanks to Marion Gray. The maintenance session was preceded by a brief meeting which previewed some plans for forthcoming meetings and a preview of what Bike Week might have in store. Click here to read the January 2008 Meeting Report.
Posted 18 January 2008 by Nick Canham
Sunday 13th January 2008. Having been informed that Sunday was due to be the wettest day of the week, the cyclists dressed for the conditions and awaited a soaking on the ride towards the Griffin. Thankfully, we were proven wrong as conditions remained dry, yet cool enough not to get overheated as we travelled up and down various steep hills in search of refreshment.
After leaving Bute Park, we rode through the Heath before exploring cycle routes in Llanishen and Lisvane that were new to many of the group. An 11 a.m. arrival at the pub provided an opportunity to swap route ideas and on departing, some opted for the easier and more direct route home while the hardier members used the opportunity to continue exploring and enjoying the beautiful countryside bordering Cardiff.
Posted 17 January 2008 by Germaine Walsh