Gent - Wevelgem!
Wow, this years’ event proved to be a real cracker. The sun shone, we rode the roads and trails, then we ate frites and mayo, perfect.
Everyone got in the spirit of the day and with seven groups leaving the square it was a great turn out for the club, maybe the promise of free post ride chips should be done more often?
Similar to the Hill Climb club run, all routes silhouetted each other so that no matter what route you chose everyone felt part of the event. Groups participated in the three published routes and some even chose to add a long route of their own from the square in case others wanted to join them.
The main Hell of St Neots “full monty” had three participating groups, one included Jake Hennessy, the U23 2017 Gent-Wevelgem winner. Riders faced a challenging route including tarmac, gravel, grass track and finally a tricky concrete road that caught a few out. Punctures were plentiful but that was to be expected in the varying surfaces and waterlogged route. Like a true pro Jake had a puncture but no kit to repair it, what are they like!
Post ride, the riders enjoyed refreshments and frites in the marquee at The Royal Oak, Hail Weston. The service and hospitality they offered was superb, they enjoyed our company so much we have an open invitation to return.
The stories and laughter post-event really sum up what this ride is all about: fun, friendship and taking on a challenge together. To see people laugh in 2020 is a rarity, making the atmosphere of Sunday something special.
Our thanks to everyone that came along, it was you that made the 2020 Hell of St Neots a Club Classic.