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This was a memorable ride, Jo was going to meet us for singletrack fun in Stanmer Park. Jo has been off her bike for a 4 months due to illness and we were looking forward to having her around as much as she was pleased to back on her bike.

The planned route takes in plenty of singletrack between Devils Dyke and Stanmer Park as well as the usual trails. As we went through our bike faffing in the carpark  a gentle refreshing breeze from the sea kept us cool but as soon as we dropped onto the snaking singletrack on the left side of the dyke itself and out of the breeze things changed. Less than 400 yards into the ride and we knew that the sunshine and heat were going to have a big impact on the ride.

It was boiling hot and by the time we reached the steep steps I was soaking in sweat and tired. I faffed the steeps and despite 3 attempts decided to walk rather than have another go at riding them, I usually clean these steeps without any hassle so something was wrong. The climb over Newtimber Hill was a killer with me and Neil winching our way to the top under the blazing sun as the others sprinted off. Woolstonbury singletrack was bone dry and great fun however myself and Neil were now suffering badly from the heat and just wanted to be in some shade. Respect to Steve who as well as clearing the steep rocky climb had also cruised up Newtimber Hill on his singlespeed before heading off to ride to Lewes. Very impressive.

Along the South Downs Way to welcome cold water and the magic ‘Callipo’ from the ice cream van at Ditchling Beacon. We could all feel the sun burning into our uncovered skin as we rested so a decision was taken to head into the shade of Stanmer woods by the quickest route possible.

Once under the tree cover everyone seemed to get a second wind and we hit the singletrack for a couple of hours. We had great fun riding the obstacles on the regular trails as well as a couple of features on new trails tucked away out of sight. No tumbles or incidents but plenty of smiles and laughter.

We had left Devils Dyke at 10-30 am and hit Stanmer Tearooms for coffee, cake and chips at about 4pm. An enjoyable ride but on hindsight we should have perhaps spent the whole day under the tree shelter. Jo’s return passed successfully and we are looking forward to her next outing with us.