Today was one of those days that reminds you just how strong the biking community can be when it comes together for something bigger than itself. The ride was a charity run marshalled by Peaks and Dales Bikers in support of SuperGood Bikers for Autism SGBFA, and what a cracking day it turned out to be.
We started out from the Tea Junction at Hulme End, and that place was buzzing before a wheel had even turned. Bikes lined up, riders chatting, marshals sorting final details, and plenty of supporters there to see us off. It was brilliant to see so many people arrive in cars as well, not just to wave us away but to follow the route plan and position themselves at different points to cheer the riders through.
The ride officially started at 11am, but in true biker style I rolled into what I thought would be an empty car park at 8.45am. As you do. It was not empty at all. Sitting there already were Freya and mum, waiting in the car, and Freya was absolutely buzzing. Full of excitement, full of smiles, and clearly ready for the day ahead. Brilliant to see.
One of the key features of SGBFA rides is that each event has its own Champion or Mascot, and today that honour belonged to Freya. She brought real energy to the morning and reminded everyone exactly why these rides matter.
SGBFA had presents for her too. Naturally, model bikes because she loves bikes, along with a signed cap. Safe to say that went down well.
Around 100 bikes had signed up and paid for the event. With the forecast threatening poor weather, some understandably could not make it, but the yet to be confirmed figure looked to be around 65 bikes out on the road. That is still a superb turnout. Better still, the weather gods were kind. We had dry roads and dry riding for around 95 percent of the route, with even a few appearances from the sun just to top it off.
As we rolled away from the Tea Junction, waved off by supporters, the sound of all those engines humming together was something special. It is one of those moments you feel as much as hear.
The route itself was a beauty. Great open roads where the ride could flow nicely, mixed with smaller country lanes that kept things interesting and scenic. Proper riding roads. The sort that remind you why we all put up with winter, rain, maintenance bills and everything else that comes with biking.
Ashbourne deserves a special mention. We came through to lines of people waving us on, cheering and smiling. That sort of support lifts the whole ride and gives it real atmosphere. Brilliant to see.
Halfway round we stopped for lunch at Chequered Flag Cafe at Darley Moor racetrack. A top spot for a break, plenty of chat, food, tea and the usual tyre kicking and bike admiration that naturally happens when riders gather.
Back at the Tea Junction later on, the sidecar was drawing attention and giving rides to plenty of people. Helmets on, smiles ready, and off down the road towards Hartington for a taste of something a bit different. Great to watch and even better to see people enjoying it.
From a marshal’s point of view, the drop off system worked well. Always good when a plan comes together smoothly and the ride keeps moving safely and efficiently. I will include some video of my first drop off point, although I did not catch every bike because I needed to be ready to move off and mark the next turn.
I was parked safely in advance of the left turn ahead, indicating to riders where to turn.
One of the best parts of the day was seeing how far people had travelled to support the cause. Riders came from Rotherham, Devon, Sussex, Lincoln and seemingly everywhere in between. Of course, a strong showing from Peaks and Dales Bikers too, as you would expect.
It was also good to chat with the organisers of the Lincoln ride coming up on June 7th. We will be seeing them again soon when we head over to support their event.
A mention too for Mick Handley, who organised all aspects of the route and the marshalling team. A lot of work goes into making a ride like this run smoothly, and today showed exactly what good planning and effort can achieve. Job well done.
Most importantly, every penny raised goes towards the valuable work SGBFA do for young people and adults with autism. That is what days like today are really about. Bikes are the attraction, roads are the playground, but helping people is the real destination. Below is the sidecar and Royal Alloy bought with last year’s fundraising.
A cracking day. Good people, good roads, good cause.
That will do nicely.
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