Listen carefully – can you hear it? It’s just a soft sound mind, but it’s there… a mere will o‘ the wisp perhaps, but there is definitely something in the air…. Wafting up from the high country down in the just re-opened South as the fences drop, tis the Call o' the Peaks’ and training is ramping into gear. And to that end, the Fluffers and occasional Flutters return as a hopefully weekly event until end of February. The Northern Beaches, denied to us for so long, are happy to play their part, and throw their arms open to ERs. Swimmers welcome. I might even bring my snorkel kit this week (being still on leave), but will ride on after, either into the CBD, or back home from either Fairlight or Cammeray depending on who else joins.

Thursday 21st 5.15am opp. Pattos. I’ll be on my gravel bike, so pace won’t be especially hot. 

The Fluffer is a 56km ride that starts from opposite Pattisons Bakery in St Ives at 5.15am on every Tuesday and Thursday during the year. It normally arrives at the B&T between 7:30 and 7.45 am. This is a fantastic confidence builder and caters for all levels of rider from 'my first long ride' through to 'established riders'. Target speed is 23 to 26km/h. The Fluffer incorporates a number of different riding styles including group riding, a long descent, rolling groups, steady climbs and normal group commuting.

This ride is normally led by a ride leader who will ensure that the pace is OAFATSR, with frequent regroups, manage the ride and ensure all enjoy the experience. A short stop at Manly ensures that bottles can be refilled, views enjoyed and occasionally some people will even take a dip in the surf!

Please make sure that you have good lights for the winter rides.