The Southern Counties Cycling Union’s annual Hardriders event saw a small but dedicated field of riders gather at the Bletchingley circuit on Sunday, March 24th, for a gruelling 21-mile challenge. With the sun blessing the morning and a temperature hovering around six degrees, riders braved a fairly strong wind as they tackled the demanding course.

Pat Wright riding for the Paceline RT, emerged victorious, clinching top spot for the second consecutive year. The 39 year old’s affinity for the event was evident as he powered through the course in 51 minutes 41 seconds. Reflecting on his win, Wright expressed his fondness for the challenging nature of the Bletchingley circuit.

Claiming the second position was Theo Tadros of the Cardiff University Road Cycling team. The 22 year old chemistry student, in his final year of studies, showcased remarkable skill and tenacity to finish 52 minutes 21 seconds, some 40 seconds down on the winner, Pat Wright. Tadros, already planning his post race celebration, eagerly anticipated utilising his prize at a local Chinese restaurant.

The organiser was delighted to witness a full field of riders at the starting line. Fortunately there were no crashes on this twisty and windy course with several area of road surface that needed careful riding over. Perhaps by next year the road will have been repaired! First man off, Mark Gidney returned to the changing rooms early as he had the misfortune to suffer a mechanical fault with his rear wheel.

Results:

1  P. Wright       Paceline RT                                                      51.41

2  T. Tadros         Cardiff University RC Team                        52.21

3  R.Cartland      Huntbikewheels.com                                 54.59

4  M. Phipps-Taylor   Paceline RT                                             55.00

5  G. Williams    Twickenham CC                                             55.11   

6  P. Tippett         Crawley Wheelers                                        56.19

Road Bike: R. Cartland        Huntbikewheels.com                                               54.59