Spalding Cycling Club got their new season under way with an awards night to celebrate the successful 2016 campaign.
Held at the Royal Mail Cart and organised by Chris Bettinson, some 53 members and guests enjoyed a carvery meal, an impromptu cycling themed quiz and raffle before the more serious part of the programme started.
Club chairman Simon Wright took on the review of a very busy and successful season – with outstanding performances from time trialling to national championship grass track racing, as well as “Go Ride” and the innovations introduced into the calendar in various events.
While the club was predominantly represented in time trialling, including their own evening and open events, they also took part in the Hereward League and LRRA competition.
Sarah Bentley, in particular, posted some outstanding performances, while other members raced on the road and in cyclo cross races at various levels too.
Grass track was, as usual, well supported – especially by the younger members, who competed at their usual high standard at local events.
That included the Heckington Show and the annual trip to Mildenhall where they raced in front of a large and knowledgeable number of spectators.
The pinnacle of that was achieved by second claim member Tilly Gurney, who picked up the bronze medal award in the 800m national championship event.
Recognising the growth and wider appeal of cycling, Wright also made mention of the increasing number of women members now active in the club and put forward hopes that the Go Ride section, ladies’ rides and Saturday Club runs would see an increase in regular numbers this year.
Off the bike activities were also highlighted, with a vote of thanks for the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by the committee, other club officials and helpers who ensured a full programme of events were run safely and successfully despite less than ideal weather at times.
In closing his presentation, Wright also made special mention of the team that had undertaken the kit re-design and plans for celebrating the 90th birthday of the club.
The closing speech from club secretary Gary Bentley included the usual thanks to Sharon, Nicky and Jo for their support as time keepers, Bettinson for organising the evening and wished everyone a successful 2017 season.
- Award winners 2016: Simon Wright – 25 mile TT champion; Frazer Wallis – Best Novice; Chris Bettinson – 1st Handicap 25 mile TT; Barry Drew – 1st Handicap 30 mile TT; Megan Kendall – Clubman of the year; Natasha Tooley – female 10 mile league champion; Caitlin Taylor – Beryl Harding Trophy for best Go Rider; Tom Wright – junior male best all-rounder; Sophie Wright – junior female best all-rounder; Mark Hill and Ross McGivern – two-up team 25 mile TT champions; Mimi Gurney – Tim Bryett track performance award; Andy Bowser – 10 mile league champion; Ross McGivern – 30 mile TT champion; Sarah Bentley – James Avery Trophy for the outstanding performance the year as club senior, veteran and ladies’ best all-rounder; Ben Moore – cyclo cross.
- The LRRA Dinner and awards night the following night saw Sarah Bentley collect more silverware to her collection and served as further reward for an impressive season.
