Sunday, 20th March 2016
https://www.facebook.com/events/1696316590608656/
Distance: 23 miles – Difficulty: 3/5 – Bikes: MTB
Scenic but tough ride from the Blaenafon and Pontypool Railway terminus, over the mountain to Brymawr before crossing the Ebbw and the Sirhowy valleys before arriving at Trefil, some 1500 feet above sea-level. With snow still visible on the tops of the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains, you were certainly exposed to the cold wind on this beautiful, but exposed upland.
Only three riders made the trip, having to contend with three testing climbs on the return at Sirhowy, Beaufort and Blaenafon. Refreshment was had at the Tafern Ty Uchaf (Top House) pub before the return.
The ride was to test the suitability of the route for the Charity Ride in August. Certainly some parts would be good, starting at Trefil and the paths around Blaenafon, but concern was raised with the severity of three tough climbs in succession, on busy roads.
Riders:
- Tony Griffiths
- Chris Nolan
- Sue Earnshaw