Martin has been doing a great job in setting the routes, and encouraging the riders of the very popular Orange group. Read on to find out more;

Q. When and what made you start cycling?

A. My previous cycling was mainly off- road on a MTB but in 2016 after I retired a friend convinced me to try road cycling.

Q. Do you do different types of cycling (Road, MTB, Gravel, Turbo) and if so which one do you prefer and why?
A. I own a MTB and a gravel bike. I enjoy the road cycling a lot more now days, like the fact you can cover a lot more distance in a shorter time.

Q. Do you do, or have you done other sports than cycling?
A. Golf when the weather is warm and dry. Long distance hiking, completed  several ultra marathons 100K (walk not run) usually over two days and completed C2C last year from St Bees to Robin Hood Bay 197 miles in 14 days.

Q. How often are you able to get out on your bike?
A. The plan is twice a week or more.

Q. Other than cycling what are your other hobbies do you have?

A. Built with my father a WW1 replica SE5A biplane (single seated) fighter aircraft and flew it for several years out of White Waltham airfield. I enjoy now days building RC model aircraft from scratch in my workshop and flying them from the Maidenhead Model flying club, very different technique to fly. I also built a Westfield Sports car (looks like a Lotus 7) several years ago and join in the local sports car club events, also attend the Silverstone Classic every year.  Make my own beer at home in 40 pint batches taste like real ale and great in the summer after a long ride.

Q. What is your most memorable ride?
A. I enjoyed the Marlow Red Kite ride, the Orange group had a great turn out last year. Also track cycling in the Olympic Velodrome Lee Valley, been a couple of times for a taster session, its great fun and will do it again soon.

Q. Why did you join MDCC and what do you enjoy most about the club?
A. I was looking for companions to cycle with’ the Sunday club rides are great for friendly social rides. Have found myself leading Sunday rides for Orange, I try to vary the route and find new café stops.
 

Q. Does anyone else in your family cycle?
A. Yes, my wife also cycles with the club, it took me a year to convince her to come along. My son also cycles and has been to the club for C&T.

Q. Technology has become more prevalent in bikes, such as Electronic gears, Disc Brakes and even Suspension. What is your opinion on these technologies?
My background is aeronautical engineering so like my toys. I maintain our cycles so I’m always tinkering and repairing. Thinking about purchasing a bullet cam.

Q. If you could have any bike what would it be?
A.Would  like a carbon road bike like the ORRO Venturi  EVO 105.

Q. How have you managed the challenges of the various Covid restrictions we have had?  
A. Cycled when the restrictions permitted, several local routes with lots of laps.

Q. Do you have any cycling hates?
A. Motorists can be very unpredictable; most give plenty of room when passing but don’t like the too close or frustrated drivers trying to pass.

Q. What motivates you to get out on your bike?

A. Trying to stay fit and healthy.