Sunday 17th December

A big posse of Mcgyver, Mellonfarmer, Phatboy, The Cook, Dozer, Silverfox, Tinkerbell, The Lovely Jenna and myself set off in the heat for a bit of fun.  We made our way around to Huntsbury and started to climb.  Any shade was good as the heat was really starting to hit and no breeze.  Steadyish climb, but not a fast pace up the tarmac.  In the shade at the top most regrouped and enjoyed the shade.  I slowed right down but did not stop as I was a snail.  Continued on up, Mcgyver caught me and then took a few lads off the main track to come across the airfield while the rest of us stayed on the main track.  Grind grind.  The heat was intense at the top and we all gathered in the shade along the road as and when we arrived.  Decided to change the ride plan to avoid the excess climbing. Over Vernon we went and then Witch Hill.  Jenna doing the road and giving it a nudge along towards Castle Rock. Mellonfarmer punctured on Witch Hill.  Down Castle Rock we went then The Cook clipped a rock and over he went.  A bit of face damage but no broken bits.  Continued on and a regroup in the shade at the top of Bridal Path.  Onwards to John Brittain and then into Old Greenwood taking the left hand line down to the Pines.  Jenna did this track also.  Then we headed down the line towards Clifton Hill.  Dozer did a whoopsie and twisted his bars (a quick fix).  Continued on down with Macgyver leaving the track briefly and then out onto Canon Hill. Panorama Drive before cutting down towards Mulgans Track and then it was a road ride back to the Ferrymead Bridge.  Then some lady ran Silverfox down by turning into him at the lights.  Mellonfarmer and Phatboy headed home while the rest of us headed around the towpath and to Twisted hop for water, food and drinks.  Home after this.  A very hot ride.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2620150765

Sunday 3rd December

A warm day ahead so the plan was to start a tad earlier.  8.30 start and 22 degrees already.  Phatboy, The Cook, Tinkerbell, Bugs, Dozer and I headed off around Hansens and then started the climb up Ramahana, Aotea and Huntsbury.  The lads were kind and rode slow for me who still trailled a bit.  It was hot and we all enjoyed any breeze we found.  Stopped in the shade when we could.  Finally got to the top and I led off over Mt Vernon.  Better for me on this stuff.  Good clip around with Phatboy chasing but not really closing, slowed by uphill traffic but smiling at the end.  Over Witch Hill, me having a better run than usual, Cook and Dozer dabbing a bit in front of me.  Then climbed to Castle Rock. Not a bad run down here but then it was hot in the sheltered spots.  We all sat in the shade at the top of Bridal Path pleased that there was some shade and a breeze.  Onwards and upwards under the gondala and then up the single track to the aerials on Mt Pleasant.  Good climb up here considering the heat.  Then down the otherside.  Tried a new track that takes you down to greenwood.  From here we did the track down to the Pines above Richmond and then climbed back to the old entrance to Greenwood.  !st time I had climbed this.  Good climb.  Down John Brittain.  Had a couple of close calls when my front wheel slid on the trimmed grass laying on the track.  Phatboy has the same but rear wheel.  Down we went hooking into McCormacks Bay track.  This was fun and very dry.  Couple of lock ups but otherwise just a great ride.  From here we took the trails around the towpath and this threw us out at the back of The Twisted Hop for a drink and feed.  I stayed on with my wife for lunch and the boys went home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2602711375

Friday 17th November

2 groups of riders today.

Bugs, Macgyver, The Cook, Dozer and a mate went up to Craigiburn to ride.  Big days ride.
http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2579625700

Silverfox and I did not have the day to spare so we did a local ride.  We headed up Rapaki and left onto Montgomery Spur for a loop and then carried on up Rapaki riding the singletrack along the edge until the final climb.  I led off over Vernon and had quite a good run up here for me.  Got a bit of a lead on the Fox.  Regrouped at the start of the Traverse.  Some bunnies rode past and got a jump.  We let them get what we thought was a good lead but they only made it to the rocky bit.  One of themn stood on my normal line over the rock so I took the right hand line for a change.  Past 3 people and then gave chase to 3 more catching them before the pines.  Nice blast.  Rode Thompsons and then got a call from my girls who were walking Harry Ell.  They were gonna meet us in 15 minutes so we did the bottom half of the Nun.  The girls took longer so we could of ridden the whole track.  Back up to Vic and then down we came.  At the end of Shazzas some guy who could not ride was asking how to get out so we took him down the easy way until the turn off to Hidden track.  We headed up there (not with him )  and then hooned down Old Skool.  Really enjoyed the lines on this.  Went down to the pub for a beer and chips before heading home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2579525599

Sunday 29th October

Feeling slightly tired thanks to a great night during and after the rugby.  Silverfox, Tiinkerbell and The Cook (on his new rig), arrived and we chatted and decided a ride to Sumner and up Ct Thomas was a good idea.  We rode around via the Woolston Cut and Towpath to Ferrymead Bridge where we hooked up with Phatboy and Dozer.  Stiff easterly blowing as we pumped along the Coastal Pathway then onto the road out to Sumner.  Took off a layer at the bottom of the track before starting up.  Good climb but a few of us were complaining of being wobbly.  Phatboy included.  Evans pass was a stop in the shade before wobbling our way up Godley Head track.  The further we went the better we got.  At the top of Annaconda we decided to head out to the heads above the road.  Took the steep highline as our normal line has got a bit overgrown.  A wee rest in the sun at the carpark before coming back under the road.  Good wee run around here.  Down the snake where we all had good pace , then the tail.  Some sort of event was just winding up and the traffic up the road was pretty thick.  We all survived but the cars slowed us down coming down into Sumner.  Cruised along the beach front and then stopped at Dot Com.  Nice ride back with a tail wind.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2548651215

Day 5 Trip. Queenstown on the 17th October

Drove to Queenstown.  Phatboy and The Cook hired some heavy duty downhill rigs for the morning.  The rest of us got organised and then up the Gondala.  1st run was as a team and after this we split up.  I rode with Silverfox the whole morning.  Enjoyed myself thouroughly. Even survived the gondala lifts.  Favourite tracks for the day were Singletrack Sammy and Thingmajig. Got loose and carefree for the morning.Everyone did their thing and rode as much as they wanted.  Great morning.  Had a wonder around town and then back to camp for a great evening.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2526985497

Day 4 of the trip. October 16th Alexandra and Bannockburn

Up and drove to Alexandra and out to a track called Flattop.  Parked up and then Bugs, Dozer and The Cook discovered they had left the key to the Bike Lock back in Cromwell.  Off they went.  The rest of us rugged up and went and explored around the dam at the start of the track.  Sat in the sun and generally waited.  Eventually the boys got back and we started to climb.  Not a bad climb with only one or two pinches.  Stopped for a dump half way which made me feel better.  Up to the top where it was typical Alex country.  Most of the lads enjoyed themselves with jumps and rock climbing etc.  I did not get my head into it for some reason.  Zoned out and fecked off really.  Overall an ok ride for me but the others enjoyed it.  Back to town for lunch.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2525049968

After lunch went to explore some tracks with Phatboy but they were closed so we drove to Bannockburn to ride around an old mining site.  What an interesting and eventful afternoon.  Started with a steep climb then Phatboy wrecked his deraileur and lots of spokes in a non event.  He walked back while we rode on.  Some interesting sites but nothing exciting.  Around and up.  Got attacked by a Magpie and then it was downhill.  This was fun and fast.  Got back to the cars and as they loaded the Cooks bike on the rack they discovered the frame was cracked.  This trip was getting expensive.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2525184623

Day 3 October 15th Wanaka

Up earlyish and drove to Wanaka.  1st ride was Deans Bank which we found out is like Mcleans Island on a hill with only a couple interesting bits.  The final downhill was fun though.  It was just a matter of climb, ride across, down then climb across and down again.  I enjoyed most of it but there were a couple who loathed it.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2523078641

Into town for lunch before heading out to Sticky forest.  We all had a blast.  challenged ourselves, rode up and down and explored tracks we had never ridden.  Map my ride did not get elevations right for some reason but there was a lot of up and down.  Really enjoyed myself and I think the others did too.  Finally started to think...hmmm legs getting tired time to finish.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2523357812

Trip day 2 Naseby 14th October

We loaded up and set out for the long drive to Naseby.  Long slow drive with McGyver getting slower as he conserved fuel.  Gave me the shits so had to stop and hide behind a tree.  Anyhow finally there and on the bikes.  First tract was a fizzer as we rode up, clambered and found the tracks had been logged. Faffed about and came back down before finding a track that took us to the water race.  Found some tracks which were quite cool and challenging.  The followed the water race and found total destruction of all the best tracks.  Continued on and finally found a cool track that we all enjoyed.  Out and across to find some more tracks.  The Cook seat played up so a big regroup.  Then rode on.  The next track was started then bang as Silverrfox broke a deraileur.  He and I did an emergency dash back to Clyde Bike Shop to get a new one..  Back to camp.  When the others arrived Mcgyver fixed the issues.  A few laughs.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2521538627

Trip day 1 Friday 13th October Tekapo

Up bright and early .  Collected Silverfox and Tinkerbell before driving out to Cookietime where we hooked up with Bugs, Dozer and The Cook 1st and then later with McGyver, Mellonfarmer and Phatboy.  The convoy set out and eventually pulled up at Tekapo MTB Park.  Some faffing about and then we rode.  Tried my driving sunglasses.  Will not do that again.  The track was not all that tough,easy really.  We did do one little steep grunt to a look out before heading back towards the cars.  Headed south again.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2519879784

Saturday 30th September

Up early and outside by 8am to meet the team for a ride only to remember it was a 8.30 start so back inside for a quick laydown.  8.30 I went out and met Silverfox, Tinkerbell and The Cook.  We rode off heading to Ferrymead collecting Dozer at Bamford Bridge before heading around to collect Dozer at Ferrymead Bridge.  Up St Andrews Hill with The Cook setting the pace. Steady all the way and then I led into John Brittain with Bugs passing me about 3/4s of the way up.  We went right at the top before hopping the fence and heading up Broadleaf Lane.  Down Mt Pleasant at a good little pace before heading under the Gondola and to Castle Rock Track.  Good climb up here with a couple of us making just 1 dab to clear the steep section and a couple of dabs around the hairpins.  Down and over Witch Hill and then Vernon.  Regrouped and then made Dozer lead around the Traverse.  Good clip around here with us being held up by slower riders a couple of times.  Of course we blamed Dozer on his Fire Engine Red Trek.  Down into Vic by way of thedownhill trail then into Shazzas, Brents, Bridges etc.  Decided to go up Hidden Valley and do Old skool.  Great run down before we split and headed home.  A few went for coffee.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2494631861

Saturday 23rd September

Up and outside early for the planting at Halswell.  Dozer and Bugs joined me and we headed around Hansens and then up Ramahana onto Aotea and then Hunstbury turning right and heading down into BroadOaks.  From here we went around Cashmere Rd and up Dyers Pass turning right down Hackthorne.  I had a brainwave and we shot a left through an alley and came down Bengali Drive and back onto Cashmere Rd.  From here it was flatish with 2 little humps as we rode out to the quarry getting there with plenty of time to spare. I then encouraged the others to ride up Kennedys Bush Rd and we came back down through the park and stopped for coffee.  At 10 we rode to the planting site where we dug a few holes, planted a few plants and chatted.  Phatboy arrived after sleeping in.  After eating we headed back home into the wind.  Dozer was not with us but Phatboy was.  At Wilsons he headed towards work while Dozer and I completed the ride.  Nice ride.  I actually ended up riding the cruiser to Richmond and back later in the day and also got another 12km in the following day.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2480484971

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2482408463

Saturday 16th

I awoke to a damp overcast day but was going out regardless as it was the Travis Wetland Planting.  I headed off around Claredon Tce onto Radley St to the end and then skipped through Bromley and Ruru Lawn Cemterys and headed over to the meeting point by ITM on Dyers RD.  Getting a light drizzle so put my jacket on while waiting for Dozer.  Discovered Map my ride had not started so got that fixed.  When Dozer arrived we headed through the ponds turning right into Bridge Street and then onto the track around the estuary to Brighton.  Over to Rawhiti Domain and then down the alleyways to Pacific Rd and then onto Beach Rd.  At Broadpark we headed down the track along the beach.  Weather was holding out and just before the single track we both took off jackets.  We rode the single track out to Spencer Park with us each taking turns to set the pace. Rode through the motorcamp and then back to singletrack swapping lead after each stage.  All the way back to where we hit the beach.  Stopped to chat with April a friend before heading down Beach road to the planting.  Great weather now and what a great turnout for the planting.  After the plants were planted and the food was finished we headed off down the road along QE2 drive then down Wainoni Road onto Ottawa, Huron, Vancouver and out to Dozers.  I continued on for a round trip of 44km.

The boys rode on Sunday but I have had no report.
http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2466263024

Sunday 10th Septemnber

Woke up ready to ride.  Headed outside and hooked up with Silverfox (on his new 27.5 trek), Tinkerbell, The Cook, Phatboy, Bugs and Dozer.  Big Posse.  We headed around the road and started climbing Rapaki.  At the top of the road I had real bad chest pain and took another dose of spray.  Considered going home but decided to grovel on.  Phatboy was waiting at the first gate.  Rode slowly up the motorway hoping to get on top of things.  Near the flat spot Phatboy headed off to catch the others who had waited.  I steadily rode on.  Finally got to the top where the others were waiting.  I considered heading down here but decided to see how I felt at the start of Traverse.  Took the option of steady road ride around while the others headed over Traverse.  Got there just after the fastest 3 of Dozer, Phatboy and Tinkerbell. Feeling ok so I tailended the group as they headed around Traverse.  The flatness and up and down nature allowed some recovery so by the halfway point I passed Silverfox and chased The Cook down.  Regrouped at the pines.  They all talked me into going on to Marleys so I headed off ahead.  Good run down Thompsons and the boys caught me up just before Worsleys Rd so I did not bad pace.  Groveled up to the start. My run down Marleys was a bit shakey, certainly feeling things and still a few pains.  Into Vic park where it started to rain just as we went into the Gums.  Hailing as we went down Shazzas.  I decided the best thing for me was a ride straight down K2 while the others did Bridges etc.  Met them at the Hospital Corner.  Down we went and then onto Fava for drinks and food.  Thankful that I completed the journey and great support by the riders.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2453807204

Saturday 19th August

A small posse of The Cook, Dozer (recvovering from a cold) Phaytboy (recovering from appendics removal) and I headed up Rapaki at a steady pace. Passing a few and dodging the walkers.  Looked to do Montgomery but that was closed so continued on up.  Phatboy and I not pushing too hard so the others did not drop off too much.  Short rest at the top before I led off over Mt Vernon.  Good run here and we had to regroup at the Traverse track as The Cook dropped ofgf a bit over here.  Once again I led off for a good run around the Traverse, only thing of high interest was a bunch of young runners sitting on the cattlestop near the last section.  Nearly bowled them off with my handlebars.  Waited and regrouped before doing the pines and then into Burnt out Thompsons.  Up the road to the start of Marleys where we waited and regrouped again.  Phatboy chased me down the Nun.  I had one of my better runs for a while down here.  Felt good.  Another regroup before a causual climb back to the top of Vic Park.  Down the Rock Garden and the Gums before regroup at the skidder site.  Down Shazzas and then we checked out some new track.  Not too bad but I did get off and one stop.  Slid down another.  The this throws you out onto the normal track (bridges) and down we went.  The bottom of the track was completely fecked and muddy.  Down the Bowenvale acees track and out to Fava for drinks and nibbles before heading home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2407837955

Sunday 13th August.

2 sepparate rides today.

I headed out by myself as I only had time for a short ride.  I headed around through Hansens Park and then grunted up Huntsbury.  I then turned lefty over Mt Vernon having a nice run down here.  Once again the weather was just spot on.  Went down the track beside Rapaki until it got too muddy .  Onto Rapaki and then up for the Montgomery Loop.  Pretty greasy in spots but nice ride.  At the point where you start heading up again towards Rapki they have a closure in place.  You have to grunt across this mushy paddock, through a gate and up a steepish soft and muddy track, over a fence right near the twigg at the top before heading down a farmtrack back to Rapaki.  Had a sweet blast down the track and back to home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2394554618

meanwhile, Tinkerbell, Bugs, Dozer and The Cook (the last 2 feeling a little under the weather) headed up Mt Pleasant, down Greenwood, before heading along the road towards Godley until the farmtrack that goes back to the track.  They then headed back to Evans Pass before heading down Ct Thomas, Sumner and then home.  Tracks were in not bad condition it seems.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2394699668

Saturday 12th August

Time to ride to Southshore to plant some trees.  I went outside and met up with JENNA and and Tinkerbell.  Yes JENNA was there although Tinkerbell may not of been aware of this.  We headed down Richardson Tce and then onto Radley Street where Tinkerbell was made aware that JENNA was with us.  Down Radley through Bromely Cemetry around the corner and and through Ruru Lawn Cemetry onto Maces rd then onto Ruru Road to the corner of Dyers where we met up with Dozer who noticed that JENNA was with us.  Down past the ponds and onto the track along the river.  We followed this all the way to Burwood Bridge before crossing and returning on the other side.  Followed the river through Brighton and then finally came out on Rockinghorse Rd and to the planting.  This was wonderful.  The weather was balmy and we rode in tee shirts.  Planted and then headed back along the way we came but only as far as Bridge St where we hung a left and got back onto Dyers through the ponds following our original outwards journey back to mine.  Lovely ride at a steady pace.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2392608230

Sunday 30th July

A very cold morning and a boat ride required.  I was running late and nearly missed the ferry to Diamond Harbour.  Got there thanks to Phatboy buying my ticket.  On board was Silverfox, Tinkerbell, Mellonfarmer, Bugs (Dressed as Helmut), Dozer and of course Phatboy.  We rode up the hill and then found Wairewa Tce which led to Bayveiw which was up and down and then down down down, being careful not to loose it on the ice.  Then we headed up and over Andersons and into Orton Bradley.  Found our way to the MTB track and headed on in.  New track for a couple of the lads.  Up we went and it was in good condition.  Once at the top we came down and found a sunny spot to wait in.  Did the planting in a very cold shady site which was really wet so feet were frozen.  After stopping in the sun and having a sausage we headed back around the bays to Diamond Harbour brief stop for 1.5 pints between us but in reality only 2 drinking before heading down to catch the ferry. Home by 1.30

Sunday 23rd July

The day after the big wet and a great game of rugby saw me go outside ready to ride up the hills.  met up with Tinkerbell and Dozer who had looked at the weather and thought it would be a flat town ride. He had his skinny tyre bike with slicks.  Light mist drizzle but the hills were clogged in at the tops so we agreed with him.  Contacted Phatboy and arranged a meeting point to allow him time to get there.  The 3 of us headed through smelly slippery mud from the flood across the footbridge and followed Hansens Park.  More drizzle further along so our call was worth it.  We followed the river from the end of Hansens continuing along until we met Phatboy near Ensors Rd.  We decided to follow the river and see the sites of the flood.  After crossing Tenyson St and riding quite some distance in the water we got pulled over by council response team suggesting we do not ride the water as it was full of shit and a health risk. We heeded the advise and ziged our way back to Colombo St and headed up Strickland St and onto Antigua to the boat sheds.  Down Worscester Boulevard and into the Square.  Chatted before heading for a cuppa in New Regent St.  From here we headed past Margeret Mahey Playground, down Kilmore, Avonside and onto Linwood where Phatboy headed home.  The rest of us went up Britain, England, Oliviers etc and back to mine.  Just over an hours ride but not a lot of options.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2347956569

sunday 16th July

Phatboy, Bugs, Dozer, Silverfox, Tinkerbell and I left mine and headed around Hansens and up Gruntsbury.  For me a tough ride, tired and and stuff going on.  Up up up to the top.  Breeze was cool, in fact very cool.  Over Vernon which was fun and then tarmac all the way to Richmond Hill.  Just a ride no more.  Down the Richmond Hill Farm track, down the tarmac and to Dot Com.  Then home via tarmac.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2332452383

Sunday Muddy Sunday 9/7/17

Nice fine day with a cool breeze blowing.  Went outside as Tinkerbeel and Silverfox unloaded.  Set off briefly before I ducked back to check pressure in my rear shock.  Off we went towards Woolston Cut where we picked up Bugs at Bampton St before heading along the towpath to Ferrymead Bridge.  One major Tyre slip on the awful little footbridge. Met up with Phatbow and Dozer who were sheltering out of the wind.  Rode around the Coastal Pathway before heading up Mt Pleasant Road for a change.  I was definitely not at my best form dragging my arse slowly up the hill.  No stoppages for taking off warm layers as it did not warm up much. Up the road a bit and then the steep road into Longridge (i think that's the name) and on up to Lower John Britain.  I controlled the pace for most of this until Phatboy and Bugs went on by.  Short regroup in the fogginess at the top before heading around to old school Greenwood.  Started this in a slippery fashion and then into the new route in here.  Slippery to start but relatively nice with some speed.  Regrouped and then climbed up the other new bit.  Steeper but I enjoyed it for some reason, even the slippery bits.  Into Greenwood and I tailed the pack.  Not my best ride.  It was super muddy and greasy especially in the top stretches.  All got to the bottom safely before heading down Ct Thomas which was surprisingly good condition.  Coffee and home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2316717383

Sunday 18th June

The after birthday ride and with Mellonfarmer for a change.  Tinkerbell and Dozer arrived at mine and we headed off by the usual route to Ferrymead Bridge where we hooked up with M/F, The Cook and Phatboy. I led off up St Andrews at a comfortable pace and the others seemed happy with it.  Up up up finally ready for some single track.  Off up John Brittain we went slightly more strung out as we climbed.  The top was cool and as we went around towards the start of Greenwood a bit misty.  Into the track and then Mellonfarmer led off down the new low track.  A first time for me.  This was nice and flowy.  Enjoyed very much and then we climbed the track (the one we came down last week) towards the ruins.  A bit more effort but still a good climb.  Up the 4 wd drive and then into the Mt Pleasant Track towards the aerials.  The rocks were a tad greasy so lotsa dabs and a bit of bike dismounting ensued.  Overall not to bad.  Over the fence and we followed as track to the gates avoiding the rocky slog.  In the mist The Cook went missing.  He had hit a rock and slid off the track.  No injuries.  Down Mt Pleasant which was great.  I had a woopsy and by all accounts others had found some grease also.  Down under the Gondala and after a quick pause into the Castlle Rock climb.  I was very happy with my climb.  A couple of dabs but otherwise sweet.  Down we went Mellonfarmer and Phatboy taking the walking track at the bottom.  Tinkerbell was going to do this but after nearly skidding off he rode with the rest of us.  The front 3 went straight over Witch Hill and stopped at the top of Rapaki.  Finally Phatboy showed up explainging about Mellonfarmers brake issues and also about smacking his derailuer..  Down the side track of Rapaki until Phatboys deraileur fell into hios spokes ripping all and sunder apart. He walked down with Tinkerbell getting his van while us others went to Fava for Cake and coffee until Tinks and Phatty arrived.  Homewards.  Great fun ride apart from the breakages.

Sunday June 11th

Tracks open and a posse met outside mine.  Tinekerbell, Silverfox, Bugs, Dozer and I set off towards Huntsbury after a quick catch up.  1st ride as a group for a while.  1st ride for a while for some.  Just took the normal route at a steady grind all the way up.  I led off over Vernon having to wait for a large Posse heading towards us near the last downhill run.  We then headed over Witch Hill and I took tailend spot here.  I rode some of it well but bloody hesitant on some of it.  No confidence.  That will get better...I hope.  Around the road and into Castle Rock.  Some spots were wet but overall it was not to bad.  Slightly better run for me through here but a little slow.  Regrouped and I had a chat to Nik Singleton.  He was changing all the signs to open.  He suggested avoiding Greenwood which was open but not the best.  We already had a plan.  Around the road and into John Brittan track..  The start was great then it got greasy on the track around the knoll.  Regrouped and then into lower Greenwood.  A couple of dabs but eventually out to the new downhill stretch towards the Pines.  Flowed quite well with a few soggy spots and a couple of slippery spots as Dozer found out.  Then down the track towards Clifton Tce.  Ages since the group has ridden this.  It was in not bad nick.  The track back towards Greenwood and then down Richmond Hill we went.  Dot Com and then the ride home.  As we went around the towpath I hear ppphhhhffftt and my rear tyre went flat.  Jokes about tubeless started but I was on a loaner wheel and it had a tube.  Struggled to get the tyre off but finally back on the bikes and home.  Good to be out.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2254081505

Saturday 13th May

Its been so long since I last entered a blog.  Many rides have past including The Old Ghost Road.  With me not able to ride with the boyz during the week no-one has been updating me so no blog entries.  Time to get back into it.

Saturday my bike was in the shop and weather reports did not look hopeful.  I had borrowed The Cooks Phatbike to give it a whirl.  He was still recovering from heart operation.  The weather was not bad but we did have early rain and some heavy stuff overnight so was surprised to find that the tracks had been opened.  Phatboy, Dozer and Silverfox all showed up so we trundled up Rapaki.  Lots of people.  I lagged a bit as I was trying to get used to the heavy steering of the bike and the large drag of the tyres.  At the first gate the lads regrouped and I trundled on. We all regrouped by the new track on the left but this was closed.  Phatboy tried to do the little single track along the edge but this was so slippery he came back to the main track.  Trundle trundle up we went.  Quick regroup before I set off over Vernon.  The lads gave me some space before riding on.  Phatboy caught me by the steep hairpins and Dozer soon followed.  Finally got to the road and the beginning of Traverse.  Waited for Silverfox.  The Phatbikes brakes were Phatastically useless with no front stopping power.  I tail ended this time only to learn that I had no traction on the greasy rocks which caused me a few issues.  Got to Vic Park for a regroup.  I headed down K2 track while the lads went down the Rock Garden.  Turns out this was pretty greasy.  I continued on K2 they took Shazzas.  AT the top of Brents Silverfox decided he had enough nerve jungling slipperiness and followed me down K2 for a regroup at Hospital Corner.  The other two came down the normal route but had to get off in spots becuase it was too greasy.  Down we went and after The Fox headed home we other 3 stopped at FAVA for drinks, watched some younglings play rugby before heading home.  Never will I ride a Phatbike again.

Sunday 9th April

Tinks (on his hardtail), Dozer, Pierre (on his new full-sus) and Rubberjaws were all ready to roll outside Rubber's when Mellonfarmer turned up, and Phatboy arrived shortly thereafter. Off round Hanson's Park and up Ramahana.  As soon as they hit the hill Rubbs started getting chest pains and had to slow accordingly.  The rest of the fellas were happy to have a rest while he plodded on, slow and steady.  Then catching him and getting ahead and then waiting while he'd ride on past them at the top of the tarseal, then took a bit to catch him that time reeling him in at the pylons, then onwards and up eventually regrouping at the top. 

Across the road and onto Vernon, good blast around here tho lots of climbers who the crew either had to stop for or off-piste past.  Rubberjawns was feeling gooood at the top of Rapaki, but knew that he'd get the pain again on the next climb, so bailed here.  The rest of the crew continued, with varying degrees of success ranging from total cleanness to a couple of dabs.  On the road, up to Castle, and MF needed a snack.  Then they got into it, MF in the lead, having a great blast down with a good gappage on Phatboy.  MF paused at the first hairpin to see whether he was coming or not, and he showed up and from then on MF could feel him breathing down his neck.  Out onto the road and the crew moseyed around under the gondola and up, Pierre's first time on this section of road since the quakes(!). 

Into the Mt (un)Pleasant singletrack climb, Tinks and Phatboy in the lead, grinding up.  MF was catching up to the hairpin and around then getting gapped again.  Nice break at the top of Pleasant, where Pierre decided he'd backtrack to Bridle Path and head down to meet a mate at the Record Fair.  The remaining 4 headed down Pleasant and had a great blast down through.  A couple of mucky wet spots on the Lyttelton facing section, but all good the rest of the way through the tussocks.  Down to the start of Greenwood and MF led the boys into the new section, weaving back and forth for a start then heading across towards the Richmond Hill pines.  Several very soggy wet bits along this but otherwise all nice rolling.  Then they headed up the other new bit, climbing away towards the original Greenwood entrance.  One very boggy spot just near the top (right before the steepest little pinch).

Onto the road and around to Britten, good blaze down here except for the several quite long soggy sections.  The new blast across the face of the hillside was sweet and the boys enjoyed the new section of trail down to the end.  In particular the last steep rocky bit.  Over the fence, and down onto Longridge, then blast down Mt Pleasant Rd and into Craigieburn and walking the steps and riding the zigs and zags.  Last couple of corners had some sogginess, but the rest of the trail was drier than it ever used to be - drainage work must have worked.  Overgrown by toi toi in places, and one flax stalk got MFer in the chest then Phatboy in the face.  Otherwise and excellent blast down to the bridge, then an even better one from here down, especially the lower section.  Brief regroup before the last straightaway speedfest to the road.

Finally, around the roads, split up at the Ferrymead Bridge, PB and MF taking Humphrey's and Linwood, spinning out the kms home. 

Tuesday 29th February

A night of 4 rides.  I went out on my own as Tuesdays are fecked for me as a team rider.  A solid ride up Huntsbury carrying sleeping bag, food items, clothing etc to imitate what I need on the trip, then up Longhurst and down to the end.  I then climbed back up Longhurst which is a steep mother and then right onto Takehe Drive and down Kidson.  Left onto Dyers Pass and up to a left into Westeria Tce, left down Hackthorne and right into MacMillan before heading down Dyers and back to the car.

Meanwhile some of the lads including Bugs, Dozer, Phatboy and Juniour (i think) went up Ct Thomas at separate times, left along the road and then 4wd drive track to Godley track and back towards and down Ct Thomas...while The Cook parked up at the top of Evans rode along the road up the 4wd left to Godley Head and then singletrack to the car...

Meanwhile Mellonfarmer and Macgyver rode Captain Thomas as well, but up a track above Greenwood, up the ridge to the top of Mt Pleasant, back down, and around the two new(ish) ones that start at the Greenwood entrance and end at the Ruins, then back down Greenwood where they caught up with Phatbuoy and JuniorPhatty.  They all rode down The Thomas together..

Sunday 12th february

Went out to the gate as Tinkerbell and Silverfox arrived.  Precisely at 9 we set off and met the Phatboy as we headed into the Park by the Woolston Cut.  We then travelled posse style to the bridge at Ferrymead.  The track along the towpath is getting rather overgrown.  We decided it was already warm and cruised up St Andrews stopping once in the shade for a quick regroup.  Finally arrived at the bottom entrance to John Brittain where I led off.  Hot work all the way stopping in the shade of the trees at the top.  Welcome relief from the sun and a little breeze to help cool off.  We decided to head straight up Broadleaf Lane for the shade.  Topped out at the aerials before taking our own lines down.  The rocks caused some discomfort for my ribs and back but I survived even if it was not the fastest trip down.  Phatboy and Dozer led off down Greenwood.  Everyone had a pretty good run down but it certainly was not my best.  We then rode the road section of Godley until we climbed up the farm track so we could do the fist section in reverse.  Quite a quick run here although I was starting to struggle.  Down Ct Thomas at various speeds with the boys all waiting for me after the tricky climb.  We then finished the down in quick time.  A stop at Dot Com and a discussion on possibilities for this years trip.  Then homeward along the road we headed.  Overall a good ride although it was hot!!

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/2004094157

Saturday 4th February

Hooked up with Phatboy, The Cook and Dozer on his new Trek and we headed up Rapaki.  Me feeling sore all the way.  Dozer still working out how to ride his machine.loop of Montgomery before the last uphill of Rapaki.  Others did some of the side singletrack while I headed up the smooth track.  Quick regroup before heading over Mt Vernon with me leading.  Another quick regroup before Phatboy led off around the Traverse.  All good until the dipper which really hurt my ribs.  I took the road down to The Kiwi while the others did Thompsons then we headed down Old Dyers for a look before climbing back to the skidder site.  Down Shazzas which hurt so much I rode down K2 while the others did Bridges etc.  Down the track and headed home for an early finish.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1989523895

With a few of the lads having spent all day Saturday drinking at the beer fest and then one of them (Rubberjaws) having a bit of a prang coming home only a small posse went out. The below description was written by Bugs.  I have highligted and commented on a few bits.....

Tinkerbell and The Fox arrived at Bug's place where a new guy call Paul (Friends of Mellonfarmers) was also waiting out front. While Tinkerbell fixed his problem of a leaking bladder Dozer arrived on a brand new sparkling Trek. As it was red we all knew it was going to be fast. After a short chat we headed down Alport place to the single track around the river. Bug's lead with the other 4 close behind. Scared a runner on a blind corner and gave way to 5 or 6 others on the track. Arrived at Ferrymead bridge where we headed straight up St Andrews Hill. No stops on the way up but feeling the head as we climbed (when I ride I try to leave the head alone as it interferes with my ability to hold the handle bars) with no wind to cool us down. Short rest before we headed up the shared track though the paddocks. Tinkerbell lead with Paul just behind him then Dozer on the Red Trek, Bug's and Silver fox. Headed around under the summit road on John Britten. This is overgrown which meant the 1st 3 headed down the old track. Bug's shuck (whats a shuck) ahead of Dozer where the 2 tracks meet. Onwards to the road then over the fence and up we headed towards the aerials. At the top Bug's applied his pads to his knees and we started the down. Dozer 1st, then Bug's, Tinkerbell, The Fox and the Paul. 1st time here for him. Gave way to 5 guys riding up the rocks. Down we headed enjoying the ride in the dust the Treks 27.5 wheels. At the start of Greenwood Bugs lead with the rest behind. The 5 guys who were riding up where now chasing us all. Good ride down here with them getting past most of us. There leading guy caught up with Bugs at the 1st rocky climb at the bottom when Bugs cocked it up. Keep in-front of him till the bottom. The rest of them arrived then Dozer and the rest. Headed down Cpt Thomas from here with Dozer leading then Bugs, Tinkerbell, Paul and The Fox. Great ride down here clearing most of it. Stopped at Dot Com for Coffees etc. Bugs had an unknown traveler down his top which managed to sting him twice down his belly. After coffees we headed to the bikes where a comment was made about how skinny Fox's back tire was. Yes it was flat. While he fixed it we all watched. Headed back across the Causeway into a strong head wind. We all dropped into the single track at Ferrymead with Tinkerbell and the fox turning off to the nursery then Bug's and Dozer turning off at the bridge. Paul headed around the river to his from here. Great hot ride about 27km with 645m climbing.   

Tuesday 24th January

Collected The Cook and drove to Worsley Rd where we unloaded the bikes.  Silverfox and Tinkerbell arrived so we rode into the Adventure Park and I led off up the uphill track.  Steady pace, dabbed on 1 section of hairpins on the way and eventually climbed out onto the access Rd that led us to the entrance into the lower green track.  I jumped in 1st and enjoyed a fast blast down to get my eye in.  Tinks came next followed eventually by Silverfox and The Cook.  They were delayed by Rex who they bumped into at the top.  Silverfox led off into the uphill for a 2nd loop.  Good run although dabbed on the same hairpin and then my phone rung.  This time we climbed to the start of Double overhead Cam.  Tinkerbell led followed by me.  Best and fastest run I have had down here shaving 41 seconds off my fastest time.  Felt good.  From here we went and had the customary beer at the cafe before riding back to the car and heading home.  Nice run .

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1969889738

Saturday 21st January

Dozer arrived at mine (on a Giant Trace loaned from Bugs)and we headed off towards the Adventure Park via Cashmere Rd for the most part of it.  Got there early hoping to head up the uphill track before buying my pass.  Track was closed so we rode over and bought my pass.  $40 for 3 rides now.  We rode back in time for the uphill to be opened just after 10.  Quite surprised how many people were heading up.  Dozer was off and away and there were a couple of people between us for most of the climb. Nice steady climb with some mean tight switchbacks.  Dabbed on a couple and had to stop when a guy in front managed to slam off the track above and fall in front of me. he was fine. Continued on up and then it comes onto the access rd.  Stopped for a pee.  As we rode up the road the same guy fell off on a slight rise ahead of us.  His response to us asking how he was "having a bad day"!!  Got upto the start of the lower Green line and headed down.  Dozer let me lead due to the dificiencys of a Giant. Nice fast and flowy run down here.  Up to the chairlift base for my first ever lift in Christchurch.  Found it a little bit worrisome to start but the chair is pretty steady and does not rock.  Got off at the top and we did the green Line top to bottom.  Very quick and enjoyable at pace.  Fun was the only way to describe it.  Chased a chick down who was trying to stay in front, passed her and continued on to the bottom.  back up the lift again feeling quite relaxed.  This time we came down Lord of the Possums. Felt good all the way then into Double over Head Cam.  Ok run for most of it but really busy with a few downhillers catching and passing.  Up for the 3rd lift and we cam down Yeah yeah Gnaw.  This is my sort of track.  More technical, slower but so much more challenging. Had a lot of fun here.  Then back into double overhead cam.  Not quite so busy this time.  At the bottom I spotted Tinkerbell sitting with Sandals and Helmut.  Dozer, Tinks and I headed up for the Traditional Beer and Chips. We then headed out with Tinks turning left for his placing while Dozer and I headed home.  All up 43km with all sorts of altitude but only about 200m climb in reality.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1963936586

14th january 2017

1st group ride I have been in since going away.  Went outside and hooked up with Phatboy, Bugs and Silverfox.  We headed around the river and started up Crapaki.  Decided to skip the side loop and maybe have an extra loop at the CAP (Christchurch adventure Park).  Phatboy rode the new rapaki single track, Bugs and I started to but headed onto the main track.  Silverfox had whizzed pass at this stage so we caught him up.  I could see Tinkerbell and Young Jenna ahead of us. After some unfair play, Silverfox summitted head of us.  I then continued on up Mt Vernon after Tinks and Jenna catching them before the last steep climb on the bend.  Stopped for a regroup at the road crossing and I was surprised the Phatboy arrived first.  He led off around the traverse having a good run, then Bugs, me, Silverfox etc following.  Bugs stopped to let some riders coming towards us get past so we could get a good run into Vic park.  Stopped in the trees out of the wind and after regrouping I summited ahead of the others.  Led off down Thompsons with everyone in close order before climbing around to the top of Worsley.  Down the bodybag for another regroup before heading in the gate and climbing to the chairlift drop off point.  From here the lads led off down Lord of the Possums.  For me a first time in the park.  Clean and quite fast with some good little air options. gonna be hard on bikes as the surface is like concrete.  regrouped at the bottom before heading down Double overhead Cam.  More of the same but with a lot more switchbacks.  Finally got to the park village.  Could not get a single ride pass so we coffeed or had a beer before heading home.  Great morning ride.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1950960260

Rubberjaws Holiday adventures.

Off on holiday to Marahau as usual.
my 2nd to last ride for the year was  from Marahau Beach camp along the tarmac and then grunted up the Marahau - Riwaka Rd.  Stayed in the gutter to avoid the cars and campervans.  Good steady climb and then I made the left hand turn into the forestry for a little bit more climbing. Felt quite good at this point.  Around to Upper Corkscrew for a short downhill.  A little bit rutted but rolled well.  Into Jaws for a good run down.  Past a guy who jumped to far and landed on the side of the track.  he was all good.  Continued down enjoying the flow with just enough twists and turns to keep you honest.  Into the bottom half with a little air time and a small grunt before the awesome end run.  Just flows with yumps and jumps.   Climbed up Big Ups to the start of new Big Airs.  This track is certainly made for air time.  Rolled some and launched on others. Took it quitly though.  Good fun.  Returned up Ziggys and then into Corkscrew.  it was hot by this stage and I was pushing as hard as I could. The last 50m of Corkscrew sucked. Onto the fireroad and climbed to the top before heading down the fire road to the Kaiteri -Sandy bay Rd.  Good fast run with some loose shingle keeping me honest.  Drew blood on the gorse along the edge.  from here it was down the road and back to camp.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1923855821

My final ride of 2016 saw me dropped off at the start of the fireroad at the top of the hill.  Rode up and headed towards jaws.  Decided to try something different and headed down velocity.  I had never done the top of this before.  Gosh it was testing.  caused some sphincter clenching and a couple of dabs.  Possibly would of ridden it all if I had a ride partner but was a tad hesitant due to being alone. Steep and rutted with a few big drops along the way.  Felt better the lower I went.  From here I went into Skullduggery which was fun.  Into lower skullduggerry which is quite old skoolish with a few twists turns and rocks.  Up Easy Rider into Cruise Control and then down Shady lady and across the new log bridge.  revelation and then Ziggys, Corkscrew and fire road and back to camp.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1926830909

My first ride of the year started at the riwaka Market.  After having a look around i unloaded my bike and hit the cycle trail.  This runs along the road, through some orchards and then alongside the Kaiteriteri Rd.  After crossing under the road you are then back on Easy Rider inside the MTB park.  I headed up here and decided to hang a left into swish.  This climbed via some switchbacks upto the 2nd half of scoot that took me to Remedy.  A nice downhill that chucks you out above Shady Lady.  Down here i went and at the bottom they have put in a new uphill back to Gladerunner where I hung a left.  This took me back to Swamp Monster which is swoopy and fun.  I climbed back to Cruise Control then Galde Runner, revelation, Ziggys, Corkscrew and then Fireroad back to camp.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1930756898

My last ride of the trip was with a guy from the camp.  A novice off road but what the heck.We headed up the riwaka Rd into the forest, Down Upper Corkscrew which saw him walk a few meters.  Down Jaws.  Slow for me, but he pushed it as hard as he could.  (very Slow) Up Big Ups to Skullduggery and around. Into Scoot and Upper Scoot before heading down Tank to Swamp Monster.  Climbed up to the top and headed down half Pipe before cruising through kaiteriteri and around the road back to camp.  Not a bad ride but not as tough as the others.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1935974495

My first ride at home consisted of a short per funeral/memorial.  I headed around and up Rapaki before hanging left for Montgomery Spur track.  Good loop and then continued up the new rapaki singletrack.  Got steeper and steeper but I managed to ride right to the rock slope.  Walked 7-8meters befor getting back on a grunting to the top.  Returned down the single track but had some walkers get in my way and they were not moving so back onto Rapaki track with a few choice words for a run down here and back to home.

http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1945388954