Those feeling energetic opted for the 95 mile journey from Leicester Tigers RFC or the 90 mile journey from Twickenham Stoop, while those who wanted a slightly shorter challenge decided to start from Worcester RFC (66 Miles), London Irish Madejeski Stadium (54 miles), Bath RFC (42 Miles) or Gloucester RFC (36 miles).
All of the cyclists set off on Saturday, 19 June with the sun beating down on their backs. Some donned the rugby shirts of their affiliated Rugby club while others wore their specially designed BikeFest cycle jerseys and everyone had a smile on their face, (for the first few miles anyway!)
Each route had a pit stop where cyclists could replenish their water bottles and have a bite to eat. However, the lure of the pubs on route proved far too tempting for some and the orange squash was replaced by a sneaky Guinness.
The second half of each route proved more challenging as most cyclists had never covered so many miles before. Fortunately the welcoming finish was in sight and the smell of freshly barbecued sausages and burgers spurred the cyclists on and encouraged them to stay on their saddles.
All in all the Spoon BikeFest was a fantastic event that brought supporters of different rugby clubs together with supporters of Wooden Spoon to raise money for disadvantaged children across the UK and Ireland!
The only question on the evening was whether the event will return in 2011. Martin Corry certainly hopes so, and described the Bike Fest as "a great concept and a fantastically well organised event.
"We thoroughly enjoyed taking part and look forward to coming back next year with a bigger contingent."
If you fancy joining Martin in 2011, keep an eye on the Wooden Spoon website www.spoonchallenges.co/bikefest
