The first 25 of the season went without a hitch for most, after the threat of roadworks on the course was not realised and the weather was fair. However some riders were not familiar with the etiquet of the turn and hadnt appreciated the need to ride into the side road and come out again, rather than attempt a dead turn in the middle of the A696. Apologies as I should have advised people of this on the start line.

There were  3 PBs this week, Mark Whaley clipping his time, Michael Todd being an early rider with a fast time, knocking 90 seconds off his PB and coming home nearly 10 minutes before the second rider to cross the line on the night, and Kyle Spence improving by 5 1/2 minutes since his last club 25. 

Ken Thursby missed a PB by 1 second and now has his last 4 rides as short 57`s but frustratingly still 2-3 seconds outside the illusive 56, although he fared better than his minute man, Russ, who had a delayed but speedy return leg in the back of Rogers car after a puncture.

Two record breaking tandem teams turned up on the night, Rob Hogarth and Stella Ward with a 1:10:37 and Mike James and Becci Leung setting a 1:01:20 and asking the question, would a sub 1 hr ride be possible. The mixed Tandem record was a 1.11.14 from 2015 before tonight. I wonder how close to the 55.50 men`s record this could go if the competiton continues. I`m sure Miriam and Jon could be tempted to enter the competition. Sorry to these teams that I cant fit you into the overall results as its an individuals competition but achievements are noted and respect is due.

New riders to the 25 course this week included John Baley, last man under the hour, Ian Dick making up one of 7 Derwentside riders on the night and Stephen Magrath of Blaydon. 

Matty Wells missed out on a PB although came close, trading last years TT bike aero for this years increased power and experience on a road bike and still coming in sub 60 mins.

After just 3 events 5 riders already have the 2x10 + 25 to complete the BAR, with Lewis Wake heading it up and Kyle Spence out in front for the Vags championship but some strong riders closing in on their completions.

Read more: Club 25 6.6.19