That time of year that suits some more than others, good power, lightweight frame, young legs and young lungs. 16 braved the hill, all 2.3 miles of pain. Hummingbird Legs Fallon was up for smashing it, not quite managing his performance from last year, I sensed a little disappointment afterwards, don’t worry about it Matt; you won, and next year you’ll still be young, possibly stronger and wiser.

I tip my hat to young Huw, what a fantastic ride, you were flying, and I certainly didn’t expect you to pass me that soon especially as I thought I was on it. My words to the future for you are steer clear of girls and beer and you’ll go far.

I knew Max had it in him, a new PB up the hill, it may have taken all season but the form’s starting to come good, hopefully he’ll be out for the upcoming VT, which should also suit his strengths. 

Forest hill maestro Adam T just squeezed under the 11 minute closely followed by Adam M, who also looked a little disappointed to have gone a smidge slower this year. Adam, there’s always the steep one with the Trophy, you’re currently favourite for that one. 

Rich Wilson put in a great ride, showing there’s lots of strength and could also be a front runner for the steep one down at Hoarwithy. 

Another hill specialist Ant P took a creditable 7th spot, but I think there was room to have gone a tad quicker, as I would have expected you to take a little more out of me than that. Then there was I, happy as Larry to have had such a good ride (PB), tying with James The Spinner, who’d probably not predicted that.

The Quad Kid, James Coull was predicting the win before the start, and then sandbagged all the way up. Maybe, just maybe he’s thinking the steep hill climb’s another handicap event, so as not to jeopardise any potential handicap didn’t go at full welly.

Tim N was the last in the 12 minute category, just…. If I’m right in thinking, this was his 1^st attempt at the Long Hill Climb, it’s a good learning event as to how to read what your body’s screaming at you, next year I think you can knock another minute off your time.

1^st lady this week was Rachel, also her first attempt; I’m pleased you did so well. It’s a tough event and you performed brilliantly. Not a million miles from Rachel was Carol, another first timer, another very creditable effort. I hope you’re proud of what you have achieved.

Tony “The Tiger” may be towards the lower end, but, I was more than pleased with Tony’s exertion. When we had the de-brief in the pub afterwards, we worked out we were giving away 32 years and 4 stone to the winners. The plan was then hatched for a handicap hill climb at some point of loading everyone up to the heaviest person to see how much of a difference that made. Tony was also very keen to remove a single crank off the fastest rider to even things out a little more.

Jon A’s season has gone from strength to strength, but the one thing that’s slowed him down all year has been the hills. I sense he may need to focus on the weaknesses this winter. Last home but certainly not disappointed was Paul C. It was nice to see he was genuinely happy to have got up, at a decent lick.

Thanks this week goes to Tom The Power your finishing timekeeper (apols for the 1 mistake, that was me not Tom) and Angie starting you all with Taff in charge of pushing you all to the halfway point.

Rider of the night this week was a toughie as several people shone. After a lot more thought than usual, I have decided it to be shared. Both Rachel and Huw have really impressed this week. Well done both.

Next event is the KM sprint; meet at Marcle by the school, signing on by 6:45. If riding out, a rear light will be a good idea. Come and improve your season average and show what a beast you are!

For those that knew her, Val Shuttleworth passed away last Thursday and the funeral is in the Forest of Dean Crem 3.30 10th Sept with wake at the Old Court in Symonds yat after.

1	Matt Fallon	10:05
2	Huw Edwards	10:24	Newport Olympic
3	Max Suff	10:45
4	Adam Taylor	10:59	RDFCC
5	Adam Matchette	11:03
6	Richard Wilson	11:12
7	Antony Pollard	11:47	RDFCC
=8	Paul Stephens	12:16
=8	James Wilson	12:16
10	James Coull	12:22
11	Tim Newland	12:59
12	Rachel Morgan	13:26
13	Carol Usher	14:27	C-on-B’s
14	Tony Price	14:56
15	Jon Airey	15:05
16	Paul Cooper	16:08