Savernake Autumn Pleasure Ride - 2021
As always, many thanks go to Rosie Pack and her team of helpers who make this ride possible, despite the C-19 curveballs and getting permission arrangements in place so many months in advance.
After a year off, it was good to be back “in harness” again, with
all the fun and games that organising this ride can bring!
Sadly, we had to cap numbers and stop entries on the day to manage the parking arrangements, which have diminished over the past few years. Saplings were planted in the Nursery area, and they have grown; we were also asked not to park in the central grass area in case we made any
marks. This restriction took out 50% of available space, and combined
with the lack of grass verge mowing in the start area; we could only take 50 entries.
The first challenge this year was being sent just one key to open 2 different locks. The day was saved by a forestry worker opening the other locks at 7 am on the day.
The second challenge arose on Sunday. The barrier opposite Grand Avenue wasn’t open as the first riders headed out, and the security guard knew nothing about it. The land agent had done his part, but the security company management had forgotten to tell the poor man on duty! It took several phone calls in Nepalese and English to get it opened, and the next gate had to be taken off its hinges due to padlock failure!
In the end, 41 people enjoyed a great ride and gave us lovely feedback, so it was all worth it.
After a year off, it was good to be back “in harness” again, with
all the fun and games that organising this ride can bring!
Sadly, we had to cap numbers and stop entries on the day to manage the parking arrangements, which have diminished over the past few years. Saplings were planted in the Nursery area, and they have grown; we were also asked not to park in the central grass area in case we made any
marks. This restriction took out 50% of available space, and combined
with the lack of grass verge mowing in the start area; we could only take 50 entries.
The first challenge this year was being sent just one key to open 2 different locks. The day was saved by a forestry worker opening the other locks at 7 am on the day.
The second challenge arose on Sunday. The barrier opposite Grand Avenue wasn’t open as the first riders headed out, and the security guard knew nothing about it. The land agent had done his part, but the security company management had forgotten to tell the poor man on duty! It took several phone calls in Nepalese and English to get it opened, and the next gate had to be taken off its hinges due to padlock failure!
In the end, 41 people enjoyed a great ride and gave us lovely feedback, so it was all worth it.
