Hilly 50 Saturday 2nd March 2019

Well done everyone that helped particularly Dave Vine for not only riding and finishing but doing a sterling job of marshaling at Logmore Lane. Thanks also to the star signer on Terry without his help I would have been completely overwhelmed. It is always an anxious time beforehand knowing how many will turn up weather permitting etc. 2018 was a disaster due to snow and the beast from the east. It was canceled. The re-run in September attracted only 7 riders from within our DA and demonstrated that the early march slot is ideal for the racing types that like to get an early season warm-up event in before the time trial season starts. This year we were well supported from CUK HQ with Julie Rand bringing a crew along. See photo. In all 68 riders signed on which is a record for me and compensates for the anxiety beforehand.
I would like to thank Tony H for his support in publicizing along with Tim Court for all his efforts with the CUK events page, along with Simon Lamborn, Collin Q & Jeff T for running of flyers and sign on sheets. It all helps an illiterate IT guy like me!
I must mention the splendid support we got from V.C.Londres particularly with their contingent of young riders along with many from Addiscombe CC. In all approx 30% of those taking part. So far the event has raised £590 final total for our worthy charity of St. Raphael's is still to be finalized as I am hoping for maybe more donations. £25 has already been donated by those that could not ride and on the day many riders gave me £10 and said keep the change and on generous rider gave £20 and said the same (well I think that's what he said). I was particularly interested in one rider who rode on a Tricycle conversion, which is an ordinary road bike frame with a conversion kit from Reading CTC. See the photo at the finish.
The weather on the day was fine and not too much dirt on the road. It was gratifying that so many finishers shook my hand at the end of the ride to say how much they enjoyed it! (must be mad).
A particular mention should go to Steve Winder from Epsom CC, he is a phenomenal hill climber, a regular supporter and finished in 1hr. 51mins. Also, I should mention another regular Martin Cairns from Cosham.

Mike Morley