Well that’s it –  the 2023 MVSC (Mike Vybiral Summer Cycling) season closed it’s doors on September 20th after 23 fantastic Wednesday evening rides.The first ride on April 19th from Shearsby seems a lot more recent to me? Time certainly flies by.

Rider numbers have continued to increase and although the weather was pretty atrocious last week a few hardy riders rode the short distance from the Bell at Burton Overy to another favourite – the Fox and Goose at Ilston on the Hill for a few drinks. Apparently Nick Fenwick and Pete Condon drove there in cycling kit? Reports of some of the female riders selecting on a warming Brandy were also received which, on such a wet night is a totally understandable choice. The fact that all riders gathered in one Peleton (led by Phil Rayner) and decided to go for a bit of a mid-ride social shows what a brilliant group we have. No politics, no issues – just friendships and respect for all (and a healthy drinking habit).

Riders returned to the Bell along with many others that decided not to get on their bike for the last supper of the MVSC year. Some regulars weren’t able to make it due to holidays and other commitments (we missed you all) but many did and we had a lovely night. Jamie-Lee and her team at the pub did us proud again – thank you.

A few photo’s attached that were taken at the Bell.

I’ll continue to monitor the numbers of people wanting MVSC kit and be in touch with each that do as and when we have enough quantities to put an order in (you can add any orders on the website and we can then sort out sizing etc when we have enough).

So that just leaves it for me to say thanks to everyone, the riders, the ride leaders, the pubs and their staff, and a special thanks to Pete Condon for all of his work with the website and the running of the ‘club’ (that’s it – I’ve called it a club!). Pete was a very close friend of Mike and has carried on Mike’s legacy. Without his drive and commitment I doubt it would have continued in all honesty. You should be really proud of what you’ve done Pete -I know Mike would have been thrilled to see it continue in the form that he created. Thanks so much and well done.

And finally our great friend and Cycling legend Bill Barrie has just had a bit of an operation and I know we all wish him a speedy recovery – Bill’s appetite and knowledge for all things cycling is amazing – thanks for your support Bill.

Have a great few months until the Spring (including Christmas) – when the green shoots of the MVSC email will again emerge in your ‘Inboxes.’

Safe riding all and thanks again.

Nick T.