Can it get any worse?

My third wet ride in a row......

Having set off from Caton I headed for the first hill of the day, Jubilee Tower, which is just east of Lancaster. The route up gave great views across to Morecambe Bay, though as I approached the top it became obscured by an ominous black cloud. After yesterday’s experiences, I opted for early waterproofs, just as a massive hailstorm started. Fortunately the Tower offered some shelter, and I was joined by another two groups of cyclists equally seeking a hiding place.

Eventually, a number of us braved the weather and set off for the Trough of Bowland. I’ve always wanted to cycle here, having driven through it with Laine a few years ago on an M6 diversion. I wasn’t disappointed. The clouds cleared and I was blessed with a little sunshine. Having got over the top, I dropped down to Sykes Farm and turned round and headed back up. The plan is to do all the climbs as Simon Warren recommends, so back to the summit cattlegrid!

Having ticked number two, I headed off for the Cross of Greet and the final named climb of the day. It was quite a drag from Slaidburn, made all the worse by another hailstorm. The final two miles were very slushly, though fortunately for the following descent it wasn’t cold enough to freeze.

There was lots of snow/slush on top, and the descent was a bit hairy to begin with, but I quickly dropped down towards Bentham and then back into the wind to reach the car.

A good day, though again I got cold and wet. It was great to see so many cyclists out though, I wasn’t the only fool on a bank holiday.

Distance 44.5 miles, ascent 1589m.