Bala was shrouded in a mist which had eerily descended over the town and lake during the night. We were greeted in the car park on the 24th August at 7:15 am in a temperature of only 5 degrees C. Eleven members of the Birkenhead Victoria Cycling Club along with over 700 other cyclists were about to embark on one of the toughest one-day cycling events in the country – the Wild Wales Challenge, an annual event organised by Merseyside CTC, starting and finishing in Bala.
After just 4 miles of easy riding, we were met by the first severe test of the day, the climb (more than 25% in places) over the Berwyn mountain range via Milltir Cerrig (mile of stones). We had escaped the mist and the temperature quickly rose to 14 C. Heather was in full bloom over the pass and we were provided with stunning views down the valley on the fast (37 mph) descent to Llangynog. From there the route was filled with shorter stiff climbs through hedge lined lanes and over stone bridges, where streams chuckled merrily downhill. At 50 miles and with the temperature now touching 22 C, we reached the welcome lunch stop and check-point in the ancient town of Caersws. Suitably refuelled with chicken baguettes, flapjack and water, we set off on the return leg of the loop accompanied by the screaming cries from the mountain sides and acrobatic flight of Red Kites.
The final check point was at Dinas Mawddwy just 18 miles from the finish, but with the infamous, nicknamed ‘Hell Fire’ pass to come. Bwlch y Groes at 546 metres is one of the highest roads in Wales and was used by Pilgrims from North Wales on their journey to St David’s. In the 1920’s and 30’s, it was used by the Austin and Triumph motor car manufacturers to test their prototypes. We finally reached the summit, with leg muscles going into cramp in a fine drizzle, and after a quick stop for photos made our way down to Bala lake and along its southerly shore to the finish at just after 7pm.
We made it!!!
As I write this 48 hours later, my legs still aching from the effort, I reflect on a really worthwhile challenge for a good cause and fitting tribute to my younger son Michael. I felt proud to be riding with my elder son, Rob, and in some ways both sons were riding with me again that day. All our team members completed the course without mishap and with 2 hours to spare. Well done the ‘Vics’!
Statistics: Distance: 97 miles at average actual riding pace of 12.1 mph
Ascent: 2948 metres (9672 feet of climbing)
Energy expended: 5,000 to 6,000 calories
Money raised: over £3000 so far
I should like to thank our many supporters, including friends, relatives, work colleagues and employers who have made generous donations to CRY.
Ian Casson
