GROUP EVENT Gospel Pass Epic

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Few rides truly deserve to be called epic. Ask anyone and they'll agree that climbing the Gospel Pass is one of those rides.

The weather was spectacular and everyone was excited. The fellas had spoken of this legendary ride for years and we were finally going to ride it together. Little did I know that this would also one of the last big events I was to share with the Kingfishers.

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Overview - Gospel Pass Epic

Distance: Distance: 102.1 miles
Elevation:+ 6489 / - 6489 ft
Duration: 15:38:13

The plan was for all of the Kingfishers to meet at 7:30 am in Abergavenny. From there we would cycle north to Llantony Priory where we would begin the climb. Once over the top, we would drop in to Hay-on-Wye and return via Talgarth, Crickhowell, and back to Abergavenny in one big loop. Easy-peazy. ▼ Jump to Summary

Oakdale to Abergavenny

The other Kingfishers loaded their bikes in the back of their cars and drove to Abergavenny. I, on the otherhand - rode my bike.

I left around 5:00 am cycling up Sirhowy Valley to Tredegar, acoss the Heads of the Valley to Brynmawr, and then down through Clydach Gorge to meet the fellas in by the castle car park.

I've cycled this route several times and because of this (as well as, the early morning...) I didn't take any photos.

Abergavenny to Hay-on-Wye

For the entire ride to Hay-on-Wye, we followed NCN Route 42. Thanks to Sustrans, the route is well-marked and despite the many turns through town, it is easy to follow.

However, once out of town on Old Hereford Road the route becomes quite a climb with one brief section hitting a lung-busting 17% incline. Needless to say, I didn't get any photos until we were well out of town.

The first notable landmark is Church of Saint Martin in Cwmyoy. Often called the most crooked church in the UK, it stands twisted and bent from a series of landslips. It's up their on the hill, but we didn't stop today.

A few miles further up the road, we did take the time stop at the next interesting church; St Mary's Chapel at Capel-y-ffin. Set along side the road under a thick canopy of trees and with room for no more that 20 worshippers, this small church exudes charm and has a fascinating history.

But we didn't tarry too long and had to move on. We still had the big push ahead.

And push it is indeed. Not only steep, but it seems to go forever.

I stopped to catch my breath and take a few quick shots. Looking back (above) and looking east (below). That's a road leading down to a very remote and isolated farmhouse way out over there.

It's stop and start for me and taking photographs is a practical excuse. It's three miles from Capel-y-Ffin to the top but it feels much longer.

Then fianlly we were over the top! The climb seemed to never end, but the views were simply incredible and well worth the effort.

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Summary - Gospel Pass Epic

This was a wondeful adventure with the Kingfishers. The weather was sunny and warm with hardly any wind (which could have been a real issue as we crossed over the top of the pass!)

Because I chose to cycle to Abergavenny, I had to cycle all the way home after our climb. Needless to say, it was quite late when I finally came in through our back gate. But, it was a great, great day.

Thanks as always for stopping by.

Cheers! - cm

Report Card
Ride Name:	Gospel Pass Epic
Start Date:	Sun. Aug. 14, 2016
Starts in:	Oakdale, Wales, GB
Departed:	7:17 AM
Distance:	84.7 mi / 136.31 km
Elevation:	+ 6314 / - 6313 ft
Max Grade:	13.2%
Duration:	13:06:03
Move Time:	08:28:49
Stop Time:	04:37:14
Max. Speed:	33.5 mph
Avg. Speed:	10.0 mph
Weather:	clouds, sun
Temp:	19°c / 66°f

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