The Tour of Pembrokeshire

Trips to Pembrokeshire always involve Mrs Thomas’ wonderful campsite at West Hook. This one was no exception. 

Mark and I arrived well into Friday evening, having had a long journey from Stroud in heavy traffic. Intermittent texts with Rod and Hillary thankfully ensured that the barbecue would still be burning when we got to the campsite. We drove down the Marloes peninsular with a clear sky, calm sea and setting sun - absolutely glorious, and very much a feeling of coming home. 

Rod cooked a hearty tea for us whilst we pitched tent. Then food and beers and chat as we watched the sun sink into the still sea, and the sky turn through a series of beautiful colours. Time then to turn in. 

A hearty early porridge breakfast, cooked on the Trangia, some final preparations, then Rod, Mark and I drove to the start point near St Davids. 

The ride was really splendid. Conditions were near-perfect. Clear sky, bright sun and a cool, gentle breeze. The views were magnificent. 

All was going well until about 65 miles out. Then, my thigh muscles started to cramp up on the steep hill sections and I’m ashamed to admit that I had to walk up some of them. Rod and Mark graciously waited for me at the top each time. 

We made it to the finish in quite a respectable time. A really magnificent ride, and an excellently organised sportive.