Watch more of our videos on Shots! and live on Freeview channel 276 Gillian, from Whittington, near Oswestry, won a Facebook competition to join more than 100 riders in the Hope House Cycle Challenge on August 11. The challenge offers options for a 56-mile route to Lake Vyrnwy, or the 70-mile route to Lake Bala. Gillian and Vicky will be taking on the trip to Lake Vyrnwy.
Gillian has completed the ride from Hope House to Lake Vyrnwy before, whereas for Vicky this will be her first time – although she has previously helped out as a volunteer. The pair are nervous but excited to take on the challenge which boasts beautiful views, a friendly atmosphere and some challenging climbs along the way. Gillian and Vicky are both retired and regularly meet for 30-mile bike rides.
They enjoy stopping off for tea and cake as part of their adventures. Their favourite places are the Potting Shed at Brook House Farm, near Shrewsbury, and Whittington Castle’s Kitchen at the Castle. “I’m a bit apprehensive about a longer bike ride,” admits Vicky.
“It’s a bit up and down, though around Lake Vyrnwy itself its quite flat. Blodwel Bank is a bit of a killer. Though, I know from volunteering what a lovely atmosphere the Cycle Challenge has.
It’s not a race, so if we end up walking a bit up the hill towards the end then that’s ok. We’ll support each other and there are lots of nice stops and food and drink along the way.” Vicky need not be too worried about her fitness, as she’.