Awesome!!

Adam Holmes signs for Trigon

Smith Signs for Trigon!

Ex Certini rider finally signs for Trigon...

FEB 07 PCCC HILLY 13 WINNER

APRIL 07 S6/10 2ND

PZ WHEELERS CRITS E 1 2 3RD

MAY 07 S40/10 SOUTH WEST CHAMPS 2ND

MAY PCCC E 1 2 BRENT TOR ROAD RACE 3RD

EWCC S4/25 MAY 07 SECOND

TRURO CC S18/25 JUN 07 WINNER

TAMAR CC S40/10 JUNE 2nd

SOUTH WEST ROAD CHAMPS 8TH JUN 07

LIFEFOREC RAS DE CYMRU 5 DAY STAGE RACE OVERALL 9TH WINNER TEAM TIME TRIAL WINNER OVERALL TEAM WINNER 8th overall

PCCC S4/25 AUGUST 07 WINNER

CS Dynamo 4 up August TTT 2nd

MDCC Paignton Criterium August 4th

INTERSERVICE 10 MILE TT 2ND PLACE (NAVY/ARMY/RAF)

INTERSERVICE 10 MILE TT TEAM CHAMPIONS

INTERSERVICE 25 MILE TT TEAM CHAMPIONS

I am a committed rider and train hard. I am capable of riding on the road and in Time trials and that makes me useful for stage races and as a domestique which I have proved more than useful at already this year. I am from a rare breed that can do well in both distances right up to national level.

My aims for next include the National 25 and 50. The national three up with my new team mates and to gain my Elite raod license.

http://jjcoachcom.blogspot.com/

http://jjcoachcom.blogspot.com/
Cycling Coach at thirty pounds a month. Grat value!

Julius Jennings coaching (Qualified in many ways)

JUNIOR TEAM MEMBER ANNOUNCED

LAURA CLODE

Rider Profile Laura Clode

12 years old
started racing at 6 years old
Has competed at circuit racing, on track and in cyclo-cross

2007 SW Cyclo-Cross League U14 Girl’s Champion

Won 3 open circuit races this year in U12 category

Also plays hockey for her school and enjoys most sports

Wants to be a professional sports person

Hates Pink loves Football

KARL HODSON SPORTING CV

Sporting CV

Name: Karl Hodson

Age: 41

After leaving school I didn’t do any sport at all, in the late summer of 2003 I started riding a bicycle. I live half way up a steep hill and got onto my mounting bike to ride to the top of the hill. I was pretty discussed with myself as I only got a short way up. Over the next 6 weeks I rode up the same hill making sure I rode further than the last time until I eventually got to the top.

In 2004 I bought a road bike and started to ride the local club 10’s. At the end of the season to keep fit I started running. In 2005/6 I continued to ride the local club 10’s and did the odd crit race and a few open TT events, all this was done without any training. A club 10 on a Wednesday with a club ride on a Sunday morning. At the end of 2006 Julius Jennings very kindly offered to coach me.

During the winter of 2006 training started and I was fully focused on achieving my goals for 2007, which were to do a 21:?? on a 10 and a 57:?? on a 25.

Achievements/PB’s

2004

10 – 24:46 (S26R10)
At the end of the cycling season I took up running and after only 6 weeks training I entered my first half marathon

Seaton half marathon 1.46:47
Musbury Castle Challenge 1.02:07 (33 out 90)
Honiton 12K 53:25 (75/218)
Dalwood 3 hills – 10 miles 90:24 (30/90)
Colyton 10K 43:06 (70/264)
Wellington Monument 6 mile 45:18 (61/202)

2005

10 – 23:18 (S26R10)
25 – 1.03:36 (S3/25)

2006

10 – 22:33 (S26R10)
25 – 59:11 (S4/25)
2 Local club 10 wins

2007

10 – 21:43 (S4/10)
25 – 54:48 (S4/25)
50 – 1.56:24 (S4/50) 50 mile TT South West Divisional Champion - Overall
50 mile TT South West Divisional Champion – Vet
50 mile TT South West Divisional Champion – Team

10 – Two up 20:44 Win Sid Valley Team Win

Third Vet in the South West BAR

Open results for 2007

2 Wins
1 Second
7 Thirds

Vet Prizes

6 Wins
2 Seconds

Local club 10’s

Rode 8 events

6 Wins
2 Seconds

The 2007 season results are down to the training given by Julius Jennings and my determination to achieve. After the performances of this year I shall look forward to 2008 and the challenges it brings. The goals for next year are to score PB’s in all the 10/25 and 50 and to challenge the top riders even further.

My sporting career is very short but my commitment to Win is strong, in a short space of time I have challenged and beaten some the top riders who have been riding for many more years.

www.powerbuilduk.com

http://www.powerbuilduk.com announce sponsorship deal with Trigon bikes. General Manager "We are really keen to get involved with cycle racing and see this as a great opportunity".

Adrian Clode Sporting CV

Adrian Clode’s Sporting CV

Began cycle racing at 15 with limited success and a very on-off interest until joining the Navy at 21.
Maintained a good fitness level while in the Navy, taking part in running races and partaking in squash, circuit training, etc.
On leaving the Navy took up cycle racing again with the Heron Racing Club. This was a moderately successful period with a few wins in circuit races and a few reasonable time trial performances.

Then got married and had kids so decided running would take less valuable family time. Joined South West Road Runners, ran various races from 1998-2000, including 2 London Marathons. Achieved P.B.’s of 17-49 for 5k, 37-23 for 10k, 1-23-05 Half Marathon and 3-36-51 for the Marathon. Also ran off-road races and cross-country league races.

In 2001 suffered a torn cartilage while running had to have operation so missed most of that year. Decided cycling would be easier on the body and returned to my first love (in sport that is).

Gradually increased the cycling as family grew up and became a little less dependent, from 14 events in 2002 to over 40 in each of the last 3 years.

Have dabbled in track racing but as the nearest track is 90 miles away this is not practical on a regular basis. Cyclo-Cross has become a quite profitable outlet in recent years and I have had some good success locally.

RECENT RACING PALMARES

2007- Sid Valley CC Overall Winner Veterans category in The SW Cyclo-Cross
League
25 Points in BC events to maintain 2nd cat licence
50m TT 2-01-52 (2nd fastest time ever)
25m TT 56-51 (All-Time PB)
10m TT 22-21 (2nd best since comeback)
10m TT 2-Up 20-44 (PB with Karl Hodson)
South-West Team Champions at 50m TT

2006- Sid Valley CC
Acquired 2nd Cat Licence for first time since 1993 including 2 wins
1st individual in the Inter-Area Cyclo-Cross Champs, 2nd Team
Overall Winner of the Veterans Category in the SW Cyclo-Cross League
1st Vet in 5 rounds of the series

2005- Sid Valley CC
Missed 2nd cat licence by 1 point
Fastest 10m TT since 1993 22-15
4th Vet in SW Cyclo-Cross (missed half the season after heavy crash in a circuit race)

2004- Sid Valley CC
3rd Vet in SW Cyclo-Cross
Rode from track league 4th Jan to Cyclo-Cross 19th December
Without a break

I am also a Level 2 BC Coach and have been coaching youth riders in the last 3 years.

Next year, 2008, I would like to try more stage races and more longer road races and would like to obtain a 1st cat licence.

It would be very helpful to have a team around to provide more motivation and inspiration when competing. Outside Interests Include

Supporting Exeter City FC

Playing snooker

Playing Guitar and Fiddle

Trigonbikes.com announce junior team

On the back of the announcment of a new South West team www.trigonbikes.com/wheelsofdorset.co.uk/jjcoach.com/continental/www.powerbuild.co.uk a junior section is also being put together. If you have a promising junior that you think might be suitable to this team then drop the editor a line on chiefdocster@gmail.com

Trigonbikes.com-wheelsofdorset.co.uk-jjcoach.com-continental

Julius had a dream and soon it will come in to being. A force to be reckoned with!!

New south West Team in offing-

riders to be named in January.

watch this space

http://www.trigonbikes.com/

http://wheelsofdorset.co.uk/

http://www.conti-tyres.co.uk/conticycle/default.html

http://www.powerbuilduk.com/

RNRMCA TT TEAM NAMED COMBINED SERVICES TEAM OF THE YEAR

The RN Time Trial team has been named as the CS team of the year. This puts cycling right at the forefront of services sports.

SMITH LINKED WITH NEW TEAM

WINTER TRAINING BEGINS

Winter training has begun in earnest.... meet every Saturday at 0730 crownhill and Sunday Novotel 0900.

He is nails!!!

SMITH LEAVES CERTINI

After a long hard season, James Smith has decided to call it a day with www.team-certini.co.uk. " I have had a great time with the team and wouldn't change it for anything but there have been a few issues this year that have frustrated me. I think it is time I tried something new. I have other teams lined up but am just waiting for final details before posting to the blog."

Sorry it has been quiet over the last month or so but I am now working in Birmingham an do not have web access till the weekend. If anyone else wants to post anything just drop me an email at chiefdocster@gmail.com

Willcocks racing in Belgium

CS DYNAMO 4 UP BIKNMOTION BREAK COURSE RECORD

A hard fought 4 up to-day. It became obvious early on that this was a two horse race as certini and Biknmotion posted the fastest half way times.

Early in the race Certini lost one rider Chris Scott who has been suffering with a cold this week. This left over twenty miles with just three riders.

G Lackford - Tor 2000
J Smith
R Willcocks

Bikinmotion though were unbeatable setting a breathaking 55 on a hilly course.

Lackford did suit Orange and black though????

Certini team manager admits failings tactically!!

Bye Disco!!

Is this the greatest jersey ever???

Rider of The Year? Unofficial on Forum

Hello All,

check out the forum and nominate your West Country Rider of the year. You can't nominate yourself though.

I have extended the nominations by one day so start emailing me or Messaging me via the Forum with your ideas for the top riders.

All categories weclome

Kona Three Day Results missing in Post??

Although now almost a week ago still no results have been seen of the Kona three day on their site or the BC site?

Anyone have any ideas??

CERTINI LINKED WITH NEW RIDERS

Jason Flooks Team manager www.team-certini.co.uk is on the hunt for new riders. "A new team with one new signing and a few other riders dropped should bring the team back in to focus".

If you think you have what it takes to ride as a team member even if it means your own race is over then make contact on this blog. A kit and bike deal may be available.

The new team members will be announced at the beginning of September 2007.

ROCKBEARE HILL ROAD RACE

Alex Fitzgerald pictured

The Rockbeare hill awaited the field this evening with 5 laps of what turned out to be a viciously fast and unforgiving course suiting all types of rider. Inevitably Marcin Bialoblocki was marked out as a potential threat and when Willcocks and Lackford Certini and Tor 2000 escaped the chase from Bialoblocki was awaited.

Bialoblocki did try numerous times butwas unable to shake off his markers and sat up. However, there other riders who were willing to chase including Guy Wilkins and Alex Fitzgerald and on the last time up the hill managed to slip the nets of the bunch and finished 1st and 2nd with Bialoblocki in third.

Great racing.....

SA cyclist Cox loses fight for his life

SA cyclist Cox loses fight for his life

Posted on 01 August 2007 - 07:40

Ryan Cox, one of South Africa's top cyclists, lost the fight for his life in a Gauteng hospital early on Wednesday morning after the main artery in his left leg burst on Tuesday.
The SuperSport Zone wishes to express its sincere condolences to his family and friends. Ryan was one of the first people to work with SuperCycling when the Zone first appeared in 1999.

Cox had recently undergone surgery in France after South Africa's Tour de France ace, Robert Hunter, had lent him the money for the operation.

Clint Curtis, who coached the Barloworld rider when he was a junior, said on Tuesday Cox had been having problems with his left leg for some time.

"He sometimes lost the feeling in the leg after cycling and had little power in the leg towards the end of some races.

"Ryan then went to see one of the leading doctors in France. It was found that the artery had, as a consequence of all the cycling, become knotted as sometimes happens to a garden hose.

"It often happens to cyclists because they spend so many hours on the bicycles, with their legs bent while pedalling.

"The doctor in France has performed surgery of this type on about 600 cyclists, among them Stuart O'Grady, who has worn the yellow jersey in the Tour de France."

Kona 1-Day 3-Stage Circuit Race

End of Season finale. As the end of the road season approaches many regard this race as the last battleground of many the regions top riders.

Latest start sheet is looking good with a strong Certini contingent looking to re-ignite their stalled season after a few disappointing races.


Stage 1 = 1 mile TT at 9:30am,

Stage 2 = 12 mile Team TT at 11:00am,

Stage 3 = Circuit Race of 1 hour plus 1 lap (approx 30 miles) at 14:00. Band 4 points apply for each individual stage

CS Dynamo 4up T.T.T Team(s) (19th August)

Partners required for this 4 up TTT

So far we have

James Smith

Rob Willcocks

Need two more drop me a line at chiefdocster@gmail.com

Anyone ever fancied this let me know??

Riders question Certini tactics again!!

James Smith finally has disc wheel?? What do you think good buy?

I have on the back a Renn 575 and on the front Planet X 101.

Well good or not?

Nick Craig Visits Plymouth!!

CERTINI 2 DAY REAL TOUGH!

Although full results are not in. It looks like it has been a good weekend for Bikinmotion CC with Glenn Borrett winning two stages. Gary Andrews pictured below was the highest place overall finisher for Certini after a much improved Time Trial.

James Smith packed after day one with illness.

CERTINI PREPARE SMITH FOR INTERSERVICES TIME TRIAL

CERTINI 2 DAY

Team Certini Presents

Certini Tor 2 Day Stage Race
Race held under the Technical Regulations of the BRITISH CYCLING
DO NOT FORGET YOUR HELMET & LICENCE (NO RIDE OTHERWISE!)

Saturday 21st July 2007
Sunday 22nd July 2007

Regional A
(2nd, 3rd, 4th Cat, Juniors and Ladies)

RACE OFFICIALS
Chief commissaire Graham Morgan
Assistant commissaire Andrew Parker
Chief Judge Jason Flooks
Official Time Keeper Graham Morgan
Marshals and Helpers Friends and Family of Team Certini and other local clubs
Tea lady + team Nicole Flooks and Mairi Knight
First Aid Dan Langley



EVENT ORGANISER
To whom all correspondence regarding the event must be made in writing within 48 hours of the event.
Jason Flooks, 70 Saltash Road, Keyham, Plymouth. PL2 1QS.
01752 560852 j.flooks@btinternet.com
www.team-certini.co.uk

MARSHALLS REQUIRED FOR CERTINI TWO DAY

Local Cycle shop www.certini.co.uk are staging a two day race this weekend 21-22nd July 2007. Final preparations are taking place... The Saturday stage is still a few marshalls short. If you have been racing all season or are injured or just have a bit of free time please contact Jason Flooks to offer your services.

Also required is a BC member who is willing to drive their own lead car. Fuel will be re-imbursed.

01752323092 or jason.flooks@devonport.co.uk

TOR TWO DAY REGIONS BEST RIDERS LINE UP

www.tor2000.co.uk

The regions best riders line up this weekend for the TOR 2000 two day stage race. All the regions top riders will be there.

Julius Jennings - reformed Tester
Greg Sandy - elite rider
www.team-certini.co.uk
this is a multi stage race including an individual time trial and Team Trial.

New team mascot signed up!

TEAM CERTINI GET CALLED UP FOR THE TDF.

A last minute decision by the Tour organisers has seen the call up for two of the top riders from Team Certini. They have been asked to make the journey to London for this weekends racing. The decision was assisted by Mayor of London Ken Livingston. When asked, Ken released a statement saying " After reading about the excellent ride this team produced in the recent Ras De Cymru, I thought it was only fitting that these two riders represented the best this country has to offer whilst this event is on these shores".

When the Team Certini manager was asked to quote on the news he said "I am delighted for Smith and Andrews, it is what they deserve". Smith is expected to finish in the top 5 in the prologue, whilst Andrews will give a lesson in sprnting to those foreign lads. The two riders where unable to make a statement as they are secretly training for the event.

JAMES SMITH IS MISSING

Breaking News!!!
James Smith the dedicated cycling legend is missing. He was supposed to turn up for his usual mid week training ride, but didn't show. Rumour has it he has got too big for Certini and has moved on.

CERTINI JUST MISS OUT ON THE LOT!!

Click above for full results

NICOLE LINES UP FOR RAS

Cooke excited by home race return

Cooke is looking to claim her eight British title on Sunday
Nicole Cooke will make a rare appearance on home soil on Wednesday when she competes in the Ras de Cymru.
Cooke, fresh from retaining her Grande Boucle Feminine in France on Sunday, will race in the opening four-mile time trial stage at Caerleon, near Newport.

The 24-year-old will miss the rest of the five-day race as she will be defending her British Road Race title at Beverley, Yorkshire, on Saturday.

"It will be a nice little test after the Grande Boucle," said Cooke.

"It'll give me a chance to open up my legs to make sure everything's firing right before the British Championships.

"It fits in well with my preparations for Saturday and I'm very much looking forward to it."

It was a real highlight and a fantastic experience

Nicole Cooke

Cooke clinched her second successive Grande Boucle Feminine title on Sunday after a gruelling five stages of racing in France.

It proved to be a hugely successful race for British cycling as Emma Pooley finished third and Tanja Slater, who will join Cooke in Wednesday's time trial, clinched a stage victory.

"It was very hard," said Cooke. "We didn't have the best of conditions - there was a lot of wind and rain so the conditions were constantly changing in a lot of the stages.

"And on top of everything nature could throw at us, we had very tough stages. It really was a tough race and we had a time trial thrust in there as well.

Following Wednesday's time trial, the first stage of the 396-mile Lifeforce Ras de Cymru will start at Abergavenny on Thursday.

The sixth and final stage will be a 50-mile circuit on Sunday.

JOHN ANDREWS MEMORIAL ROAD RACE

NEW RU TRAINING FORUM click here

In the spirit of progress I have built a Forum. This is not club or disclipline based. There lots of subjects that you may feel a need to discuss or if you would like to advertise an event do it here too.

All you have to do is register on the link above or to the right..

Rockbeare Hill Road race

Club Secs,

For a number of logistical reasons the Bovey Carnival Road Race scheduled for 2nd August will not be promoted this year.

In its place Adam Beams has agreed to be the event secretary for the Rockbeare Hill Road race. It has been applied for as a race open to E/1/2/3 with points to a lower band due to it being only 58kms.

This will use a new 11km circuit. It is based on the old A30, the village of Rockbeare and then via the hamlets of Marsh Green and Rockbeare Hill to the ridge road that runs between the Halfway Inn and Daiseymount Roundabouts - a sort of shortened Airport/Aylesbeare circuit. The same kind of main climb but once every 11kms.

Please send your entry to:-

Adam Beams
40, Laura Grove
PAIGNTON
PL3 2LP

Cheques for £12.00 made out to "Mid-Devon Cycling Club"

The HQ is the Whimple Cricket Club.

Please circulate to your club members who are potential entrants

Thanks

New Tester course found!!!

Tuesday night Chain gang complete success!!

Online Videos by Veoh.com

TEAM CERTINI INTERVIEW

PACKET OF THREE TRIATHLON

NEW CYCLES LANES A HIT!!

Belgian Pro sends back first video diary

A tribute to all those who hit this silly site over 3,000 of you - THANKS...

James Smith Announces wedding plans at RAS DE Cymru!

LAST CHANCE!!

Plymouth Corinthian CC

South West District '50' Championship

S4/50

Sunday 1st July 2007

HQ. Buckfastleigh Town Hall

1st Prize: Spiuk TT Aero Helmet

Alejandro Valverde

26 Entries to date (Closing date 19th June):

Julius Jennings - Gillingham & District Wheelers
Gary Fouracres - St. Austell Wheelers
Tony Farnell - Penzance Wheelers
Ian Deakin - Mid Devon CC
Stuart Pickering - http://www.cyclelogic.co.uk/
Andrew Ellis - http://www.cyclelogic.co.uk/
Richard Goulden - http://www.cyclelogic.co.uk/
Mike Hayes - http://www.cyclelogic.co.uk/
Karl Hodson - Sid Valley CC
Adrian Clode - Sid Valley CC
Douglas Parker - Sid Valley CC
Nigel Winchester - Sid Valley CC
Steven Sage - North Devon Wheelers
Nick Denning - Exeter Wheelers
Chris Gostling - Exeter Wheelers
Robin Brown - Camel Valley C&TC
Guy de Selincourt - Camel Valley C&TC
Daniel Young - Plymouth Corinthian CC
Scott Markham - RNRMCA
Bob Richards - RNRMCA
Simon Paget - RNRMCA
Don Tanner - RAF CC
Ian North - St. Austell Wheelers
Richard Bevan - St. Austell Wheelers
Andrew Brimecombe - CS Dynamo
Helen Boatman - Finsbury Park CC

Event website: http://pccc50.plymouthcorinthiancc.com/

WEEKEND ROUNDUP

Hello All,

Weekend roundup and as usual this time of year very busy.....

National 50 and well done to local riders Sean Childs and Mark Gorman for travelling all the way to the big city....

1 Michael Hutchinson In-Gear Quickvit RT 01:42:22 0:50:54 29.306

2 Ben Instone a3crg 01:42:42 0:51:07 29.211

3 Richard Prebble Pinarello RT 01:45:11 0:52:06

28.522 23 Sean Childs Royal Navy & Royal Marines CA 01:48:57 0:53:46 27.536

25 Aran Stanton Royal Navy & Royal Marines CA 01:48:59 0:53:24 27.527

80 Stuart Edwards Royal Navy & Royal Marines CA 01:59:40 0:58:35 25.070 102

Mark Gorman Royal Navy & Royal Marines CA 02:04:15 1:00:56 24.145

also

CVCTC 10

With Sean Childs doing the Nationals and it was left to Dave Gilbert to take the honours

John Andrews Road Race

A Field of over 70 riders from all over the country gathered in Langport for what turned out to be a super fast race with average speeds of 27mph for 65 miles.

Throughout the race http://www.team-certini.co.uk/ dominated sending one rider after the other up the road. Jason Flooks attacked 4 times in one lap with James Smith bouncing off him. Every time Jason got caught James would attack.

However, the biggest attack of the afternoon came from Gary Andrews on the Upton Climb, this was strong enough to obliterate the pack. This was enough to allow Flooksy to get away with Hitchens (MDCC) and others including legendary Julius Jennings.

This was to be the winning the break with Hitchens just outsprinting Flooks and Jennings. James Smith went on a Kamikaze attack and stayed away to gain 10th in his third race in a week.

If you have anything to add just click on the comments link.

PAIGNTON REGATTA RACE

PAIGNTON REGATTA CYCLE RACES
Supported by Nigel Green Property Sales & Rentals Ltd.

CYCLE RACING FOR ALL

Friday 17th August, 2007

Racing for under 8, 10, 12 year olds on the Eastern Esplanade
Starting at 18.00 hours

Racing for the under 14 and 16 year olds around the North Green
Starting at 18.30 hours
20 minutes plus 2 laps – prime after 10 minutes

Signing on for the above races adjacent to the start
Entry fee £4.00
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Racing for Elite, First, Second & Third category
British Cycling licence holders riders
Starting at 19.00 hours
50 minutes plus 5 laps – primes every 15 minutes

Signing on for this race at Paignton Rowing Club,
Paignton harbour – open from 17.30
Entry fee £12.00 by 3/08/07 (EOL £ 18.00)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Changing rooms and showers for all races at Paignton Rowing Club
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

All cheques made out to “Mid-Devon Cycling Club”
& sent to

Ken Robertson, 9, Barnfield Road, PAIGNTON, TQ3 2JT

PCCC 2 UP 10 TOP TEAMS GO HEAD TO HEAD

The PCCC 2 up 10 on the 21st of June will see some of the strongest pairings seen in this part of the country for some time. Sean Childs and Stuart Edwards will be paired up for the RNRMCA and will start as favourites. They have trained together over a long period and should work well.

Bikinmotion also have some brotherly love with Phil and Glen Borrett pairing up. These pair will be needed to be watched as they are both of a similar standard.

Team Certini have entered two teams in an internal battle with a bottle of JP CHENET on the line. Rob Willcocks and Gary Andrews again are superbly strong and have trained together all year. James smith and Kairn Stone in their first pairing could be another super team. Kairn will be fit after returning from the European Duathlon Champs.

Who do you think will win?

JOHN ELLIS TEST NEW AERO HEAD!!

TAMAR CC 10 IT ALL WENT PETE TONG!!

ABOVE - Smith knew there was something missing

In what seemed lke perfect conditions a large field of the best Time triallers in the South West prepared for the simple loop of the A30 (S18). In fact the times thmeselves were slow due to a strong crosswind after the turn.

James Smith was one of the later starters and felt strong up until the turn and actually including the turn. It was not until the return leg that he began to bonk and quickly. "no excuses beaten by a better man on the night, I made mistakes in the run up to that race including attending the chain gang and driving to and from Birmingham the day before, but that does not take anything away from Mark Lees who did a great ride. I am looking forward to the John Andrews Race this weekend".

Chris Scott continues his comeback with a strong ride but was beaten by his young upcoming brother Rob.

Winner Mark Lees - 20.59

2nd James Smith 21.01

3rd Dave Gilbert 21.11

Get your entry in!!!

Plymouth Corinthian CC '50'

Bob Wilson Memorial

South West District '50' Championships

Sunday 1st July 2007

1st Overall - Spiuk TT Aero Helmet + Other

2nd Overall - MET Helmet + Other

3rd Overall - MET Helmet + Other

4th Overall - MET Helmet + Other

Other prizes: Top 10 overall, Teams, Ladies, Spot prizes etc....

One week remaining (closing date: 19th June)

14 Entries so far.....

Tony Farnell - Penzance Wheelers
Stuart Pickering - www.cyclelogic.co.uk
Ian Deakin - Mid Devon CC
Steven Sage - North Devon Whs
Karl Hodson - Sid Valley CC
Adrian Clode - Sid Valley CC
Mike Hayes - http://www.cyclelogic.co.uk/
Andrew Ellis - www.cyclelogic.co.uk
Nick Denning - Exeter Wheelers
Richard Goulden - www.cyclelogic.co.uk
Scott Markham - RNRMCA
Douglas Parker - Sid Valley CC
Don Tanner - RAF CC
Ian North - St. Austell Wheelers

Event Website: http://pccc50.plymouthcorinthiancc.com

TRURO CC 25 WINNER JAMES SMITH

It looked like a glorious day as the riders started the TRURO CC 25. Hot sunny and there appeared to be no wind, although we should have guessed there was a tail wind with an average speed of 31mph over the first 20 minutes.

It was not until the turn that the strength of the wind became apparent. It was straight in the riders faces brought the field to a standstill. This could be a fast course but the wind played a major part today.

Gary Andrews missed the turn! Not his fault ok!! He did not see the sign ok!! Stop talking about it!!! It is quite a complicated course if you have your head down and pushing big gears.







Pos Name Club Time
1
James Smith
Certini 55-42

2
Dave Gilbert
CVCTC 57-07

3
Martin Bawden
Cyclelogic 57-16

4
Julius Jennings
Gillingham 57-36

5
Gary Fouracres
SAW 57-50

6
Tony Farnell
PZW 59-26

7
Stuart Pickering
Cyclelogic 59-35

8
Paul Friday
PZW 1-00-19

9
Adrian Clode
Sid VCC 1-00-37

10
Mike Hayes
Cyclelogic 1-00-50

11
Andy Ellis
Cyclelogic 1-02-15

12
T Leonard
St Budeaux 1-03-00

13
P Smith
Plymouth Tri 1-03-22

14
Damien Cudmore
CVCTC 1-03-52

15
L Bradley
Guerciotti 1-04-01

16
Adrian Warne
SAW 1-04-29

17
Paul Chesterfield
SAW 1-04-42

18
Richard Bevan
SAW 1-04-47

19
A Hughes
Exeter Tri 1-05-05

20
Daniel Young
PCCC 1-05-35

21
John Trott
D & C P 1-05-38

22=
Peter Blackshaw
PZW 1-05-42

22=
John Fazakerley
Truro CC 1-05-42

24
Robin Brown
CVCTC 1-06-13

25
Anne Burnett
CVCTC 1-10-55

26
Caroline Chesterfield
C & D P 1-11-27

27
R Shadbolt
SAW 1-13-37


31 riders

Blind Tandem Rider Seeks Assistance

A visually impaired cyclist, based in Plymouth, is seeking a pilot, in order to become more involved in cycle-sport. This rider is currently a visually impaired rider of note who is seeking a pilot. Tandem supplied

Please contact Andrew Quest on 07967441569 or leave a comment and I will forward on your details to Andrew.

AN ATTEMPT AT MAKING A SILLY VIDEO

Need inspiration? Look at this...

GARY ANDREWS IS!!!

John Ellis discusses Ilton

CERTINI CLOSE IN ON 100% ME TEAM

The team work of Certini is paying dividends nationally after getting 6 riders in the top of 20 of the Regional Road Race Champs. This has put www.team-certini.co.uk within spitting distance of the best and most supported teams in the U.K. including 100% ME.

Team Manager Jason Flooks was delighted with the team performance at the champs with riders sacrificing their own chances to help the team leader. This kind of dedication in an amateur team is very rare.

Team Certini are now lining up for their biggest race of the year the internationally renowned RAS DE CYMRU one of the longest amateur stage races in the world where they will go against World Cup leader Nicole Cooke.

James Smith Team Certini " We will try and get the the Yellow early and see how it pans out from there. We have amazing strength in depth and have a rider for every stage. Gary Andrews (pictured) is an example of a rider that will be in the mix in every race."

Places on the team are highly sought after and many riders have been linked with this over achieving outfit

JENNINGS CRACKS THE ROAD

Ilton 31 May 2007

Julius Jennings wins at Ilton

The top time trialist in the South West, Julius Jennings (Gillingham & District Wheelers), broke away from the main field of competitors at Ilton last night to romp home alone in the 3 & 4’s race. When interviewed after he said, “ At last, I have now cracked the world of Road Racing. Having tried for so long to be so good at both disciplines”.

E 1 2

Jason Flooks Team Leader Team Certini had decided before the race that the team would try and control the race. This was partially successful after getting Gary Andrews in a 7 man break. Gary worked like a trojan for 20 minutes but there were too many in the bunch wanting to chase.

In the end in it came down to a bunch sprint with James Smith being the highest placed rider. This could however be anywhere at this moment form 8th to 31st depending on the Marshall's etc

Frank Spry RR May 2007

r u training gets 2,500 hits!!

This Blog has proved to be so popular that I am looking for others to contribute. It has now recieved nearly 2,500 hits in six months. Not bad for a fat Welsh man and a key board.

If you can contribute and this only takes 5 minutes to put something together then please let me know.

WEEKLY CHAIN GANG TONIGHT!!

Tuesday night is chain gang night...

Tuesday 1815 Elburton Pub Plymstock

check out http://www.plymouthcorinthiancc.com/ for further details


In the sport of cycling, a chain gang refers to a group of cyclists cycling in a close knit formation akin to a road race, normally for the purposes of training.

Unlike a regular group of cyclists, chain gangs normally consist of cyclists in two parallel lines, with the cyclist at the front of one line moving forward so that he may move to the front of the other line. This process repeats so that all cyclists in the chain gang rotate around. This gives all of the cyclists a turn on the front of they chain gang where they are forced to cycle into the wind and do the 'work'. In contrast, cyclists who fall back are given the chance to rest before their next turn.

Chain gangs tend to be characterised by short spells at the front and a high pace, and as such a ride in a chain gang is normally challenging aerobic (or even anaerobic) exercise. Indeed, weaker cyclists may find themself unable to do a turn on the front and may remain at the back to shelter from the wind and rest. Additionally, some cyclists may struggle to keep up with the fast pace and are known to drop off the back. If enough cyclists are dropped they may continue to work together to catch the main gang, or simply work with each other to continue training.

Cyclists will often meet and split into two or three chain gangs of similar ability if there are sufficient riders. This enables cyclists to ride with people of similar strength, but moreover it reduces the size of the group to a more manageable level.

In general the group will cycle at a steady pace (out of cities or urban areas if need be) to warm-up before starting the chain gang. A chain gang may culminate in a sprint finish for a particular target (such as a road side sign) to give cyclists a chance to practice and improve their sprint technique.

KEITH LILLEY ROLLS BACK THE YEARS!

A very wet Brent Tor circuit awaited the brave souls in this E 1 2 3 4 race. www.team-certini.co.uk had again enterd a strong field. Keith Lilley the 47 year old verteran started as one of the favourites along with James Williams Kona and Mark Perry Bournemouth Arrow. In the very first lap John Nye ES Torgini felt his back wheel slip and ended up admiring the grey Dartmoor sky.

Dartmoor is renowned for it's surprises but on this ocassion it was no surprise when a small elite group of six riders broke away from the bunch at the top of the long climb which is covered 11 times.

This climb popped many riders out of the back of the bunch as they tried in vain to bring the breakaway back. The breakaway however continued to increase it's gap at point almost 3.30 over the bunch.

This huge gap gave the security for in the last two laps for James Williams to attack not once but twice both times to be followed by Keith Lilley. The second attack stuck and Williams and Lilley had a 5 second gap over the remaining three riders from the original breakaway. This now included Graeme Lackford Tor 2000, Steve Thomas Bournemouth Arrow and James Smith www.team-certini.co.uk.

James Smith sat at the back of Lackford and Thomas as they desperatly tried to bring Williams and Lilley back. As the leading two reached the final hill Williams may have been a little over confident and led Lilley to the line only to be outsprinted for Lilley to win.

At the turn at the same time Smith, Lackford and Thomas almost came to a standstill as the eyed each other up in track style. Smith was the first to attack and managed to put a small gap in to Lackford to take third.

Lilley 1st
Williams 2nd
Smith 3rd
Lackford 4th
Thomas 5th

TOUR WEEKEND

Cycling weekly screwed up of the prices on their ad - not for want of
telling them! Doh! They say £41.00 per person in fact this is per pitch for
3 nights!!

Would you like to add the following info to the blog and tell your friends?

2 Nights (Friday / Saturday) £28.00 per
pitch

3 nights (Friday – Sunday) £41.00 per pitch

Power hook up £15.00



Saturday Evening Cycling Weekly/Hop Farm BBQ party
£18.80 per adult and £9.00 per child



Shuttle Bus to Paddock Wood (Saturday for Prologue)
£3.00 per person return

Shuttle Bus to Tonbridge Hill Climb Sunday 8th £5.00
per person return



A pitch means one tent + car, one Caravan + car, or a Motor caravan. Any
additional tents or vehicles would be an additional pitch.

Thanks!

Chris Gothard
The Hop Farm

TOUR DE FRANCE WEEKEND

Friday 6th to Sunday 8th July 2007

In association with Cycling Weekly

All eyes will be on Kent in early July when The Tour de France sweeps through the county on Sunday 8th July. The Hop Farm located a stones throw from the route is the perfect base to catch the action, and is the designated campsite for the event.

With excellent facilities and over 400 acres of unspoilt countryside for walking and cycling The Hop Farm offers a great package for race enthusiasts and their families.

Just 45 minuets from central London, a shuttle bus service from the site to our local mainline station on Saturday 7th will enable visitors to enjoy the Prologue time trial stage in the Capital. In the evening a celebration BBQ and party in association with Cycling Weekly has be laid on to add to the fun. Live Race coverage will be relayed to big screens at the venue throughout the event so you don't miss any of the excitement.

On Sunday 8th transportation will be available to the local hill climbs (timings subject to road closures) and viewing advise will be available for those who may wish to make their own way. The Hop Farm visitor attraction will be open all day with tour themed entertainment for all the family.

Bring along your tent, caravan or motor home however please note demand for pitches is expected to be very high so don't miss the opportunity to be part of the worlds greatest cycle race… make your booking now.

Prices are as follows: (Minimum 2 night stay) electrical hook up supply on request: £15 extra for the weekend. Save money and book in advance by clicking on the link below...

www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Greg Sandy leaves Tor 2000

It has become apparent that Greg Sandy is no longer riding for Tor 2000.

Team Supremo Stuart Dodd has confirmed this.

This blog will try and get the full story from old friend and super tester Stuart Dodd

New book to be released - "excuses" by James Smith

Have you ever been short of an excuse before a race? Well now I have it sorted. My new book "Excuses - and how to line them up" by James Smith. Here are some of the best ones.

"My saddle slipped"
"My ball is aching"
"the conditions or the course didn't suit me"
"I had to sit in"
"my gears slipped"

Keith Lilley has also donated to this book -

"I punctured so had to take a lap out"

and finally an epiologue by R Willcocks

"I am sorry I worked with the breakaway but I am retarted and could not see the orange and black train behind me"!!

Childs win Time Trial Shocker!!!

EWCC 25 won by Sean Childs in 51.55 whilst James Smith managed a fairly decent 53.09 even though he could not use his 11 gear. 3rd was Dave Gilbert in 53.50 Good conditions.

CAVENDISH IS FLYIING!!

NEW BLOGGERS WANTED!!

Do you run a cycling club or have any interesting info or even fancy writing articles for this blog? Please drop me a line at chiefdocster@gmail.com

I am looking for anyone willing to post decent articles to this blog.

Stoney takes it to a new level

KAIRN STONE to-day gained 17th place in the Elite (not age group by the way - you know who you are!!!) World Duathlon Champs to-day. A fantastic result which really raises the bar for Kairn and bodes well for the European champs in a few weeks time.








2007 Gyor ITU Duathlon World Championships 2007-05-19
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Results for: Elite Men ( click column headings to sort records )
Position Last Name First Name Country Total Time RUN T1 BIKE T2 RUN2
Amey Paul GBR 01:40:51 00:28:27 00:00:28 00:56:31 00:00:25 00:15:00
Dereere Jurgen BEL 01:40:55 00:28:26 00:00:28 00:56:33 00:00:28 00:15:00
Silva Sergio POR 01:41:00 00:28:27 00:00:27 00:56:33 00:00:21 00:15:13
Garcia Javier ESP 01:41:05 00:28:27 00:00:27 00:56:34 00:00:26 00:15:13
Barruncho Lino POR 01:41:06 00:28:27 00:00:26 00:56:35 00:00:25 00:15:14
Kite Derek USA 01:41:10 00:28:26 00:00:31 00:56:28 00:00:33 00:15:14
Valenti Stéphane FRA 01:41:21 00:28:38 00:00:28 00:56:21 00:00:25 00:15:27
Yakolev Sergey RUS 01:41:30 00:28:27 00:00:28 00:56:33 00:00:26 00:15:37
Vansteelant Benny BEL 01:41:37 00:28:53 00:00:28 00:56:40 00:00:25 00:15:11
Lebrun Nicolas FRA 01:41:49 00:28:53 00:00:32 00:56:36 00:00:27 00:15:22
Woestenborghs Rob BEL 01:41:58 00:28:53 00:00:26 00:56:40 00:00:25 00:15:35
Galinier Laurent FRA 01:42:13 00:28:48 00:00:28 00:56:44 00:00:28 00:15:44
Lowe Thomas GBR 01:42:17 00:28:53 00:00:28 00:56:38 00:00:26 00:15:51
Baugh Raphael AUS 01:42:43 00:28:48 00:00:28 00:56:46 00:00:26 00:16:17
Derobert Damien FRA 01:42:53 00:29:18 00:00:30 00:57:22 00:00:25 00:15:19
Grenetier Benjamin FRA 01:42:59 00:29:22 00:00:28 00:57:22 00:00:26 00:15:22
Stone Kairn GBR 01:43:04 00:29:03 00:00:28 00:57:38 00:00:28 00:15:26

CERTINI TAKE SW CIRCUIT TITLE

Jason Flooks to-day took away the circuit road champs at Porthreath after an amazing tactical race. Flooks said " the plan was to get James or Gary up the road" but as it turned out it ended up being me."

Flooksy got away with two other rider one being Greame Lackford Elite rider and were never seen again whilst James Smith was in a chasing group with Gary Andrews who took 5th and 6th.

Smith "I was confident today especially after the team talk that either myself or Gary would be able to do something but the best laid plans etc. Once Flooksy was up the road I knew we had it (title) he has a wicked sprint. I am not too unhappy after all 2nd in the SW 10 TT champs and now 5th in the SW circuit champs means I am an all round rider rather than just a tester."

Smith commented "We are currently running a strong team in the SW but are still a rider short to be a consistent national team, there are lots of riders in the frame."

Anyone who thinks they may be able to fill this spot are invited to put a comment on the blog.

BIG FISH LITTLE POND? NOT THE MEAN MACHINE

4 Certini Riders will be travelling to Wales for the Tour of Wales in June. They are




James Smith


Gary Andrews


Jason Flooks


Rob Willcocks




Willcocks said " the team is really strong and we are hoping to make an impact."




Willcocks was also confident about the Team Time Trial " I think we can take this stage we are so used to riding together and with good testers like James and Andrews we should do well".




story from www.britishcycling.org.uk



Cyclists from as far away as New Zealand are heading towards Newport to participate in the Lifeforce Ras de Cymru cycle race, which will take place from 27th June – 1st July 2007. The race, which pits riders against some of the toughest roads in South Wales, is being organised by the University of Wales, Newport in partnership with Lifeforce, the world’s first immune system bank.

“This year cycling superstar, Nicole Cooke, who is the World Number One ranked rider, has entered the race with her strong Lifeforce-Creation HB team,” said Simon Bray, Head of Events Services at the University and twice former British National Road Race Champion.

Simon continued, “A string of successes put Nicole (pictured left) top of the UCI World rankings and she won the season long World Cup for the second time last year. On a rare sabbatical from her continental duties, Nicole along with her team is expected to give local cyclists from Cardiff, Abergavenny and Risca a harsh lesson in the tactics of continental bike racing.

Local riders likely to be in the frame for victory are Steve Thomas from Abergavenny and Gareth Pugh from Risca. The race attracts riders from all over the UK, including South East England, Scotland, the Midlands and East Anglia as well as Germany and New Zealand.” The event is open to 20 teams of four riders who will compete in six stages of the race over five days.

“With a total prize fund of £100,000 up for grabs this year entries are flooding in – which is great news for the event, as it enables me to ensure only the best teams are selected for the race,” Simon added.

Most of the riders will be staying at the ‘Race Village’ at the University’s Caerleon Campus for the duration of the event, where they will experience the buzz of living as professional riders would over the five days, whilst enjoying the excellent catering and accommodation facilities at the University.

Stages of the race will be based at Abergavenny, Caerleon, Brecon and Merthyr Tydfil and at the end of the five days of racing the overall winner will be the rider who covers the total race distance in the shortest time. A winning team will also be established and a King of the Hills and Sprints from the riders with the highest number of points gained at intermediate points in each stage.

Former cycle champ Simon Bray promotes several successful cycling events at the University each year - including the annual Duathlon in April - which draws in competitors from all over the UK and a new Cyclosportive which is due to be promoted on 2 September 2007.

The University of Wales, Newport also offers an innovative Sports Studies degree course which enables students to develop an area of expertise in areas such as coaching in order to open the door to an exciting career in the ever-expanding sport and exercise industry.

For further information on the race telephone 01633 432202 or visit the sports centre webpage at the University of Wales, Newport: /displayPage.aspx?object_id=1677&type=PAG

The Ras de Cymru consists of six stages over the five days:

Stage 1 (15:45pm, 27 June 2007) 4.1 miles – Llangybi - Caerleon - Llanhennock - Rolling prologue time trial with climb to finish

Stage 2 (10:00am, 28 June 2007) 46.2 miles – Abergavenny – Newcastle – Rockfield – Abergavenny Hilly road race

Stage 3 (15:30pm, 28 June 2007)15 miles (Abergavenny – Raglan – Abergavenny) Flat team time trial

Stage 4 (10:00am, 29 June 2007) 58 miles (Caerleon – Usk – Raglan – Abergavenny – Usk) Flat road race

Stage 5 (10:30am, 30 June 2007) 68 miles (Storey Arms – Brecon – Dyfennog - Brecon – Dyfennog) Hilly road race

Stage 6 (10:30am, 1 July 2007) 56 miles (Abergavenny – Brecon – Talybont – Llangynidr) Flat road race with mountain top finish

Willcocks wins Tour Of Millburys

Rob Willcocks Team Certini's super sprinter took the overall win at the 2nd annual Tour of the Millburys. The race format is a one day 2 stage race including with the first stage being a 4 mile time trial and then followed by a 70 mile road race.

After the 1st stage TT James Smith was sitting second on GC. This left Smith marked for the road stage. It was decided that either Gary Andrews or Willcocks would try to get in a break. Willcocks was sitting 7th on GC and Andrews at 17th.

Early in the first lap Willcocks chipped off the front on his own and took the next two primes ( bonus seconds) this left Smith and Andrews to play a marshaling role. Willcocks managed to stay away and even took second on the stage after being caught by a second break.

Smith and Andrews finished 14th and 17th respectively after working hard for team leader Willcocks.

PLYMOUTH CORINTHIANS CYCLING CLUB!

Ever felt lonely whilst out training?

Ever felt like racing/Time trialling/Cyclosportives?

Don't know how to get involved?

Well join the Plymouth Corinthians Cycling Club

www.plymouthcorinthiancc.com

What do you get from membership?
Join us on every club run and other rides throughout the year
Club newsletter every month
This website
Pro-team quality cycling kit at subsidised prices
Regular club trips with other members
Cycling weekends away in the UK
The chance to race competitively as part of a team/club
Lift sharing to races and other events
10% discount : The Bike Cellar (Plymstock)
Hours of cycling fun with some really friendly people

Am I good enough to join?Joining a cycling club isn't a competition. If you want to test yourself, join us and start with a few beginners races. Otherwise, don't worry about what level you are at, enthusiasm is the most important thing. The majority of our members don't race, they want to do the Sunday club runs, meet other like-minded people and just talk cycling.
Do I have to be a member to come along for the Sunday Club Run?We welcome all potential new members, so please feel free to come along and as it's a good way to find out more about the Plymouth Corinthian Cycling Club.
What sort of distance and pace can I expect on your Sunday club rides?The distance varies according to the weather and what people feel like doing but 40-50 miles is normal whilst the pace is usually a steady 16-18mph. It's a sporting ride but we're not out for an unofficial race every Sunday: the pace is steady. If you think you're good, join us and take out a racing licence to do some of the local races instead of making the club run into a burn-up. When you come along, introduce yourself to some club members and explain that this is your first ride with the club so we can make sure you don't get dropped or too tired. If you can handle a 40 mile ride, you'll be fine. Remember that riding with others is a lot easier than riding by yourself.
I don't want to race, what can your club offer?Bored of riding alone? We're a social club, not a professional cycling team. Our regular Sunday rides are popular amongst all members and we have a lot of other activities.
I want to race, what can your club offer?A lot of members race in all sorts of different events, from road racing to time trials to cyclo-cross. We're a friendly club so you should find yourself on the starting line with some allies alongside you - you won't 'meet' your clubmates for the first time as they barge past you for the finish line.
Do I have to have a racing bike and all the kit?No. Enthusiasm for cycling is the most important thing. Some members do have flashy bikes but the truth is they don't help you ride that much faster. That said, you'd need talent to do the club run on a shopper bike. For the club run, a road bike is preferable although a mountain bike with slick tyres should be ok too. We recommend you ride with a helmet and bring a spare inner tube in case of a puncture.
What's the age range of members?We have members from 18 to over 70.
What makes you different from other clubs?That's probably more for you to find out, try talking to other clubs. But we like to think we're a club that offers a lot, we're a friendly lot with a good Sunday ride. You'll find we meet socially too, we're not an internet-based club. If you want to race, we've got some talented riders who are down to earth and keen to pass on their knowledge and you'll find a team spirit's that's second to none.
Membership Fees:
Senior / Veteran / Lady - £15
Junior / Juvenile - £7.50
(Please make cheques payable to the Plymouth Corinthian Cycling Club)
Please send membership to the Treasurer:
Ian Scott, 21 Battershall Close, Staddiscombe, Plymouth, Devon, PL9 9UU

If you would like a membership form please email me: cyclingrob@hotmail.co.uk

BIG FISH LITTLE POND? NOT THE MEAN MACHINE

4 Certini Riders will be travelling to Wales for the Tour of Wales in June. They are

James Smith

Gary Andrews

Jason Flooks

Rob Willcocks

Willcocks said " the team is really strong and we are hoping to make an impact."

Willcocks was also confident about the Team Time Trial " I think we can take this stage we are so used to riding together and with good testers like James and Andrews we should do well".

story from www.britishcycling.org.uk

Cyclists from as far away as New Zealand are heading towards Newport to participate in the Lifeforce Ras de Cymru cycle race, which will take place from 27th June – 1st July 2007. The race, which pits riders against some of the toughest roads in South Wales, is being organised by the University of Wales, Newport in partnership with Lifeforce, the world’s first immune system bank.

“This year cycling superstar, Nicole Cooke, who is the World Number One ranked rider, has entered the race with her strong Lifeforce-Creation HB team,” said Simon Bray, Head of Events Services at the University and twice former British National Road Race Champion.

Simon continued, “A string of successes put Nicole (pictured left) top of the UCI World rankings and she won the season long World Cup for the second time last year. On a rare sabbatical from her continental duties, Nicole along with her team is expected to give local cyclists from Cardiff, Abergavenny and Risca a harsh lesson in the tactics of continental bike racing.

Local riders likely to be in the frame for victory are Steve Thomas from Abergavenny and Gareth Pugh from Risca. The race attracts riders from all over the UK, including South East England, Scotland, the Midlands and East Anglia as well as Germany and New Zealand.” The event is open to 20 teams of four riders who will compete in six stages of the race over five days.

“With a total prize fund of £100,000 up for grabs this year entries are flooding in – which is great news for the event, as it enables me to ensure only the best teams are selected for the race,” Simon added.

Most of the riders will be staying at the ‘Race Village’ at the University’s Caerleon Campus for the duration of the event, where they will experience the buzz of living as professional riders would over the five days, whilst enjoying the excellent catering and accommodation facilities at the University.

Stages of the race will be based at Abergavenny, Caerleon, Brecon and Merthyr Tydfil and at the end of the five days of racing the overall winner will be the rider who covers the total race distance in the shortest time. A winning team will also be established and a King of the Hills and Sprints from the riders with the highest number of points gained at intermediate points in each stage.

Former cycle champ Simon Bray promotes several successful cycling events at the University each year - including the annual Duathlon in April - which draws in competitors from all over the UK and a new Cyclosportive which is due to be promoted on 2 September 2007.

The University of Wales, Newport also offers an innovative Sports Studies degree course which enables students to develop an area of expertise in areas such as coaching in order to open the door to an exciting career in the ever-expanding sport and exercise industry.

For further information on the race telephone 01633 432202 or visit the sports centre webpage at the University of Wales, Newport: /displayPage.aspx?object_id=1677&type=PAG

The Ras de Cymru consists of six stages over the five days:

Stage 1 (15:45pm, 27 June 2007) 4.1 miles – Llangybi - Caerleon - Llanhennock - Rolling prologue time trial with climb to finish

Stage 2 (10:00am, 28 June 2007) 46.2 miles – Abergavenny – Newcastle – Rockfield – Abergavenny Hilly road race

Stage 3 (15:30pm, 28 June 2007)15 miles (Abergavenny – Raglan – Abergavenny) Flat team time trial

Stage 4 (10:00am, 29 June 2007) 58 miles (Caerleon – Usk – Raglan – Abergavenny – Usk) Flat road race

Stage 5 (10:30am, 30 June 2007) 68 miles (Storey Arms – Brecon – Dyfennog - Brecon – Dyfennog) Hilly road race

Stage 6 (10:30am, 1 July 2007) 56 miles (Abergavenny – Brecon – Talybont – Llangynidr) Flat road race with mountain top finish