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Phoenix Nomads

Friday 5th October 2018

Phoenix Nomads

Phoenix members give their account of the Nomads cycling trial

Liz Halliday explains...
"A cycling reliability trial involves each cyclist choosing a time slot in which they will complete the course. This includes any checkpoints and , if necessary, fixing any mechanical issues. Hannah and Lydia chose the 26 mile course and others did the 50 mile course. Cyclists must navigate the chosen route and can ride as a group.
The course included parts of the Weald of Sussex and Ashdown Forest. Weather was beautiful if a little chilly.
Brighton Phoenix cyclist included:
Andy Bone
Tom Sanderson
Jim Whitelegg
James Lathbury
Mark Cossey
Alex Cruttenden
Paul Lawrence
Jon Wright
Andrew Brooks
Hannah Felton
Lydia Felton
Richard Nerurkar"

"Liz and Andy had recommended this event so I signed up straight away and it didn't disappoint. Upon arrival at Ditchling Village Hall, it was refreshing to see a slick 'sort yourself out' check-in process followed by a cuppa. In no time at all, our group was called and we were off. The main group split fairly early with team PHX settling into steady (perhaps slightly too quick) pace and collectively making sure we were on the right route. Much to our delight, Richard Nerurkar who had to start in the group behind us soon managed to catch up and we were a full team. At the first checkpoint, I suffered my very first pedal unclip catastrophe and came a cropper. I thought no one saw but I think everyone was just being polite. Nothing to see here.

Our group dwindled over the latter parts of the routes. A pacey early start and quite a few climbs took their toll but we did manage to roll in with enough time to have a breather. Upon final check-in, we were welcomed with another cuppa and an array of delicious cake. No better way to spend a Sunday morning and hats off to Sussex Nomads who put on this great event. Looking forward to the next one."
Mark

"I really enjoyed it. It was a fantastic route, (even Kidds Hill was bareable) the marshals were great and the cakes were fantastic! Hope to be back for the Beacon Hill Climb."
Tom

"What a great event, perfect conditions, beautiful route, punchy climbs and quiet lanes around the Ashdown Forest. All finished off with homemade cake.
Happy 40th Nomads."
Andy

"I echo Andy's comments. It was a lovely route and a friendly run event."
Jim
Thanks Jim for the photo!