Cycle road race thrills spectators

Cyclists from across the country pit their fitness against the tough route of the 2013 High Peak Road Race.

The fourth edition of the annual TLI flagship race on Sunday, June 30, put riders from across the country to the test during the six laps of a 41.8mile course starting in Chelmorton and heading to Flagg and Monyash with a grand finish near Flagg at about midday.

Cyclist Graham Kemp, of Graham Weigh RT, proved too strong for the rest of the field as he claimed overall victory in a remarkable time of 1hr, 51mins and 34secs to clinch the 2013 title, a £50 cash prize and the winner’s vest.

He was closely followed by Daniel Blackwell, of Team Elite, in second place, with a £40 prize, and Keith Middleton, of VC Lincoln, in the third spot with a £30 prize.

Competitor Barry Parker, of Polaris Bikewear, said: “Last year’s event involved terribly difficult, wet and windy conditions but this year’s race was a lot warmer and kinder although there was no hiding from the wind in places.

“However, this event still gets no easier, although this year I was happier with my outing after finishing all six laps.”

Over 80 riders took on the High Peak Road Race, promoted by Sharrow Cycling Club and Whirlow Wheelers Cycling Club and Sheffield Racing Club, and prize winners shared over £500 in cash awards for successes in a variety of well-deserved categories.

Fourth place went to Peter Turner, of Derby Mercury, fifth spot to Paul Young, of Sheffrec CC, and sixth place went to Ian Littlewood, of RVO Racing.

The Best North Midlands rider award went to Mick Fairest, of Bolsover and District Cycle Club and Graham Waller, of Sharrow Cycling Club, clinched the region’s second place spot with John Hind, of Bolsover and District Cycling Club getting the region’s third placing.

Co-race organiser John Collins said: “Congratulations go to all those who rode and many thanks are due to all those who sponsored the event and volunteered to assist.”

Riders were attracted to the handicapped event, which was also sponsored by the UK Sepsis Trust, from Derbyshire, South Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire and it is growing in popularity.