Results for 1st July 2009 - Course: K11/10T Thurlaston

The hottest day of the year did not deter 47 riders from competing on this course on the A45, new only last year as it encompasses the new island at Ryton. With Hywel Davies away and James Heaton still recovering from a viral infection it was Colin Stiles who edged out Tim Hastie for first place. Technically in cycling PBs are based on performances in the last 3 seasons, so on that definition 17 riders achieved a PB based on their times in club events. There were many unusual occurrences, like Rob Tobin finishing with one pedal, or private entry Vince Jenkins riding with a flat front tyre for the last mile, but still recording a sub-24 minute time. Russell Morris forgot his cycling shoes, so went off last so he could borrow Sean Conway's shoes after he had finished. Story of the night belonged to soon-to-be married Matt Plant and Victoria Green. When Victoria's rear tyre blew before the start Matt swapped numbers with Stuart Sykes to enable him to start first man off. Despite being exhausted at the finish he fitted his wheel into Victoria's bike and she went off at number 37 - and they both posted PBs! Certainly the large fields allow some unusual arrangements in sharing equipment. Massive improvement by Sean Conway, Victoria Green and Lucy Cash, all new members this season, saw them top the handicap list while Junior rider Paul Peasegood broke that elusive 30 minute barrier.