Welsh Championship HC - The Keepers

The 2025 Welsh Hill Climb Championship, held on the iconic Tumble near Govilon, saw thrilling performances as Dan Evans (ASSOS UK Race Team) and Jo Matthews (Cambridge University CC) emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s events, respectively, on Sunday morning. The 2.64-mile ascent along the B4246, known as the RH/10X course, challenged riders with its steep gradients and windy conditions, culminating just shy of the Merthyr Road junction.

Men’s Event: Dan Evans Dominates The Tumble

Riding for ASSOS UK Race Team, veteran cyclist Dan Evans powered to the men’s title with an impressive time of 12:23. He outpaced his closest rival, Kieran Wynne-Cattanach of Team Lifting Gear Products, by 19 seconds, with Wynne-Cattanach securing the runner-up spot at 12:42. Espoir rider Joshua Hall of Elevate RT rounded out the podium with a time of 12:49.

This victory marks Evans’ second win of the season, following his success at the Nebo Road Hill Climb last month. At 44, Evans continues to defy expectations, crediting his form to increased riding this year. “I’m really happy to win the Welsh Championships again at 44!” Evans shared. “As I’ve got older, I like the longer climbs, so at 2.6 miles, The Tumble suited me. The bright, sunny but windy conditions were a bit of an advantage for me.”

Looking ahead, Evans is set to compete at the Jackson Bridge and Snake Pass hill climbs, though he tempered expectations for the national championships, noting, “It’s way too short for me, but I’ll go along for a good day.”

Women’s Event: Jo Matthews Sets the Pace

In the women’s category, Jo Matthews of Cambridge University CC clinched the title with a time of 17:13, edging out teammate Lucy Havard by 11 seconds (17:24). Tammy Lewis-Jones of Clwb Beicio Egni Eryri took third place with a time of 17:33, also earning the fastest female veteran title at 17:35.

Youth and junior riders also shone brightly. Talan Jones of Maindy Flyers Cycling Club posted an impressive 15:02, tying for 10th overall with junior rider Iwan Clark of Clancy Briggs Cycling Academy. Helen Stevenson of Cwmcarn Paragon Cycling Club led the female youth category with a time of 17:51, securing fifth in the women’s event.

The Tumble: A Legendary Challenge

The RH/10X course on The Tumble is a staple of Welsh cycling, starting near Govilon and climbing 2.64 miles along the B4246. Known for its relentless incline and stunning views, the course tests riders’ endurance and strategy, with this year’s event featuring bright but windy conditions that added an extra layer of difficulty.

Looking Ahead

Evans and Matthews’ victories highlight the depth of talent in Welsh cycling, with both riders showcasing exceptional skill on one of the UK’s most iconic climbs. As competitors prepare for upcoming events like the Jackson Bridge and Snake Pass climbs, the 2025 Welsh Hill Climb Championship will be remembered as a showcase of grit, determination, and triumph on The Tumble.