First of all, I would like to apologise for the lack of reports these last few months. We have had quite a few comings and goings since the last report. The Vice Captain amazingly turned up once, the Captain has been more prominent (probably trying to redeem himself). There have been lots of wet and muddy rides but surprisingly no accidents worth reporting which is good in a way, but does nothing to bolster our Jackass image of the mountain bike world as described by another local mountain bike club member, although I am sure of some carnage next week on our annual Santa ride which I’ll address later.

Back to the comings and goings – I’d like to congratulate Steve Hart on his good news that he and his wife are expecting their second child in the Spring. He must have been a busy boy after our Summer trip to Porlock.

Apparently, the yearly awards voting slips have been given out over the last 2 weeks however, as seems to be the theme this year only half the job is done and not all members have received one from the Vice Skipper. I’d like a vote too, so please can you finish something this year. I understand the awards have been out this year and no Victor Meldrew will be given as last years recipient threw the tortoise into the river and has never been seen again (shame on you).

This week’s ride was attended by 13 Moos which an Otter’s Pocket or Scrippsy’s Pants when he’s forgotten to empty his bag would describe the conditions, absolutely commendable – well done lads.

As it was the last proper ride for 2006, the Captain stepped up to lead his flock for the last time. A bit of road and path work towards Rudry Common with a cracking downhill found once again by Gaz and Beaker. On towards Caerphilly Mountain to drop back down the Ridgeway and into the Maen for our
customary stop off. All refreshed now after two swift ones we braved the elements of horizontal rain back to HQ. A couple of sharper Moos decided to shower first as the heating seems to be broken at HQ and were left with no food on arrival as the wetter Moos had scoffed the lot. Cheers boys.

As there was a good turn out, we held the November awards. The deserving rider of the month was Dickie. After losing 5 stone from having his stomach clamped, he seems to be getting quicker every week. (Apparently, Johnsy has just put his name on the list for the same procedure). Well done Dickie.

As deserving as the rider of the month, I felt T*** of the month was completely underserved but as long as it’s not me it doesn’t matter who. Steve Hart claimed his second T*** of the month award this year, not sure of the reason but Scrippsy (who normally gets the award when no obvious
candidates are present) decided on it. A third drink was sunk by our newest member Roger from Cardiff, who seems to be enjoying the banter of the Moos.

Scrippsy also seems to be in his element now explaining the meanings of phrases to him like ‘hanging out the back’, ‘tail on it’ and the old fella’s favourite, ‘back door’.

Next week’s ride has already been planned as follows:-

1. The Legion.
2. Hollybush.
3. Maenllwyd.
4. Cefn Mably.
5. Tredegar Arms.
6. Ruppera.
7. Friendly Fox.
8. Rhiwderrin Inn.
9. The Royal Oak.
10. HQ.

This means you need to bring at least £30 with you tucked into your Santa suit. Hip flasks are optional if the 10 pubs are not enough! Decorations on your bike are mandatory.

Looking forward to seeing you next week.

Honored

O.B.E