The annual OHAFC Footie Tour takes place over the Easter weekend break, and after much wailing and gnashing of teeth it was decided that Antwerp was to be the venue for 3 days of fun. As soon as the venue was announced, a small group of us looked into the possibility of cycling out there (route,logistics etc), and it was decided that the 335km route was possible in 2 days.
So on the Thursday before Good Friday (1st April), Fred Richardson, Besty and myself left from Parsons Green on the first leg of our cycle down to Dover. The plan being to catch a 2pm ferry from Dover to Dunkerque, cycle a further 50km into Belgium, before sleeping over and the final 135km to Antwerp on Day 2. That meant that the only day were had a strict time limit was on the first day, so an early start was needed to ensure an arrival time of pre 1pm into Dover. By 7pm we were on the road from Parsons Green and heading through Clapham, Dulwich, Forrest Hill and over to the start of the A20 in Sidcup. I had planned the route on the internet beforehand, so was aware of any tricky turns that were needed. Avoiding the A20 when it turned into a proper dual carriageway meant a tricky left turn just after Sidcup, but down through Maidstone and Ashford the route was relatively straightforward. The A20 continued all the way to Folkestone, from where Dover Hill was tackled before a fantastic 9km downhill run into Dover centre and the ferry port. We had done the first 134.5km in just over 5hrs 8 mins. A great average speed.
The 2 hour ferry over to Dunkerque allowed the obligatory loading of carbs and water to prepare us for the 50km over to Nieuwpoort and the location of our hotel at the end of Day 1. By 7pm we had completed our targeted 191.7km in 7 hours and 25 minutes.... Thankfully, no rain!
Day 2 started with a 40km ride into the heart of Brugge for lunch. A lovely spot for a hot chocolate and quick sandwich, before slogging on for the final 98km to Antwerp. A puncture 50km from Antwerp slowed down our great progress, meaning we rolled into Antwerp just after the Tour party, but it did mean a raptuous applause as we joined them in the pub...
The Route taken can be seen here, DAY 1, DAY2
(unfortuately Garmin GPS batteries died 40km from Antwerp, but from Preekeke carry along the Bike lane next to the E34 until the Melsele, then onto the N70 into Antwerp. Not recommended you go through the Waaslandtunnel!)
The 2 day ride totalled 327km in 12hrs 56 minutes of saddle time. Felt great throughout!
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