Sunday 24th November

A few of us could not make it to Craigieburn so we were going to head out and get some track time. I had a plan!!!!! Two of Saturdays crew also came out.  Tinkerbell, Silverfox, Sandals and Helmut arrived at mine promptly at 9.09 am ands we headed over the deserted brougham St (closed for bridge repairs) down Radley all the way to ferry Rd and along here so I could drop a DVD back to the shop.  We cut down the back streets to the river and followed our usual route around the tow path to Ferrymead bridge.  We then headed up St Andrews Hill (Tony and I shot up Marama Cres cos we could) at a good steady pace.  We were really impressed at how good Sandals was riding after her adventure the day before.  (Those boys who had sore and tired legs as an excuse should be ashamed.)  Had a quick rest in the shade at the top of Major Hornbrook (lower) before heading up the hill to the start of the track on Upper Major Hornbrook.  It was pretty warm in the sun all the way.  Hit a good pace up the single track out onto Summit Road for a rest in the shade just before upper Greenwood.  I led off at this point really having an awesome run again through here.  We then headed up Mt Pleasant track.  Tinkerbell took over the lead at a techy section when I failed to achieve a clear run. We regrouped at the antenna station in the shade.  I even had time for a major toilet stop.  We then headed down towards Cavendish Saddle.  Quite a few riders and walkers slowing the fast run near the bottom.  from here we headed up to the gondola Station for a wee break in the shade before taking the walking track down to the top of the Bridal Path.  Have to admit to not walking all the way down here though.  From here we headed up the castle Hill track. (Sandals and Helmut took the road up).  It has been nearly 3 years since we last rode up or down this track.  It is in good condition and we are all looking forward to coming down it soon.  A fast blast down the rode and across to the witch Hill track.  Again 3 years have past since last doing this.  Oh what fun it was.  We regrouped at the top of Rapaki all enthused by the days ride.  Due to time constraints and so much to do Sandals and Helmut were the only ones to continue on from here.  heading by the single track around to Vic Park.  The other 3 of us headed down Rapaki for the first time in ages.  fast at the top but there were so many people on the track we had to slow down.  This was still most enjoyable!!!!  Home by 12.15.