Thursday 27th April saw us Celebrate the 24th Anniversary of the 1st Ride undertaken by the Founding Members of ‘The Bash.’
Over 40 Bashers set off from ‘The Sandygate’ bang on time to cover varying distances from 12 miles for some of the more sedate riders to the full 21 miles of the original ride for those of us with too much energy at the end of a Thursday. The ride was not without incident unfortunately! Despite warnings from our intrepid C.O. ‘Pottsie’, about the drastic decline in the condition of the roads from 24 years ago to today, Sam ‘Nosmo’ King decided to test the gravel grip level in the lanes shortly after passing ‘The Claycutters’ and only succeeded in hurling himself from his trusty steed onto the road at a great rate of knots! This manoeuvre resulted in a visit to Torbay A&E where a broken right collarbone was diagnosed! Pins and Plates to follow at some point – get well soon ‘Nosmo’.
On completion of the ride, and a safe return for the rest of us, there followed a very impressive gathering of over 50 Club Members back at ‘The Sandygate’, where plenty of Fine Ales, Ciders and Lagers washed down a fine spread of Chips, Sausages and other ‘Finger Food’ – well for most – I think there may have been an underestimation of the numbers who would attend!
In addition to the Bash’s Birthday it was announced that it was also Tony ‘Broken Man’ Ridd’s 102nd Birthday too! The traditional Bash Choir was hastily assembled and a pitch perfect rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ followed to the accompaniment of ‘Pottsie’ and his Bugle.
All in all, a great evening – for most of us! Roll on next year and the 25th Birthday. ON ON.
