News Archive

This archive lists all the old stories deleted from the home page, listed latest first.

Ixworth Criterium and Plomesgate Grass

The sad news from the East is that we have been advised that the Ixworth Crits are being given a new format and the trike event is being rested. Can anyone find a crit in Lincolnshire to fit in with Peter and Gwyneth's weekend?

The glad news is that the Plomsgate CC have invited trike entries in their grass track event at Bredfield near Woodbridge on 8th August 2009.
Rumours of a demi-pin of real ale for first prize are circulating.

This fits in nicely with the Bury St Edmunds grass track that we have been visiting for the last few years, which is on the following day. I have tentatively found a camp-site in the Stowmarket area that might suit accomodation betwixt the venues. The old TA East stomping ground of Rattlesden is not far away.

Geoff Booker wins at Warwick

Geoff Booker shrugged off the effects of his long distance '10' on Saturday and 4th place in the Stan Spelling '25' on Sunday morning to win the final round of the Criterium League in the Warwick Town Centre races in the afternoon. The win ensure he won the Criterium League with a perfect 50 points for 5 wins. Steve Avery did everything in his power to beat Geoff but had to settle for second on the day with Jeff Jones, who battlied most of the event with Martin Badham, coming home a clear third after a puncture put paid to Martin. Ian Matthews finished fourth on the day. As a result of the final event Roger Akers held on to his second place overall, but Martin Badham, Ian Matthews and Jeff Jones shared third place all equal on points with 33.

The full result is on the 2008 Results page and the final Criteium League Table (subject to confirmation by the Organiser) is on the Criterium page.

A set of Katie's photos can be viewed in the Warwick 2008 Gallery.

Dave Keene wins Jenny Noad '10' and Stan Spelling '25'

Dave Keene regained the National 10 Mile Championship with a time of 24:23, 38 seconds clear of Ralph Dadswell, 25:01 who relegated last year's Champion Nick Wood to third with 25:14. Mike Moody took first handicap with 22:12 net, just 6 seconds ahead of Roger Alma with Alison Purser third with 22:40. Alison was also fastest lady with 35:34. The full result is on the 2008 Results page.

Dave also regained his National 25 Mile Championship on Sunday with 1:2:13, Nick Wood second with 1:6:48 and Steve Avery third with 1:10:11. Andrew Nye took first handicap with 59:28 net with Steve Avery second 1:00:14 and Dave Keene third 1:2:13. The full result is on the 2008 Results page.

A gallery of Martin Purser's photos from both the Jenny Noad '10' and the Stan Spelling '25' can be seen Noad/Spelling 2008 Galleries section.

David Stone takes second Paralympics Gold

Stop Press:Tricycling Paralympian David Stone takes a second Gold! BBC News story

David Stone takes Paralympics Gold

David Stone won the mixed individual time trial (CP1/2) in 22:14.86, over a minute faster than Germany's Barbara Weise who took silver in 23:28.33. The Czech Republic's Marketa Mackova won bronze.

Stone said: "I am very happy and I want to thank all the people who supported me. It is a very hard course with a lot of curves and hills. Three men were in front of me but at last I overtook all of them."

Picture of David courtesy of Fred Homan.

AGM Reminder – nominations for National Executive Committee

Talking of AGM's reminded our National Secretary, Norman Fenn, that Rule 31 requires all nominations for National Officers and Committee to be sent in writing (an e-mail will do in these modern times) to the National Secretary not later than 1st October for inclusion in the AGM Agenda. Remember that there are six elected members as well as the officers and it would enliven the AGM if there was some competition!

Andrew Nye fastest in Eastern '50'

Andrew Nye was fastest of two in the Eastern Region '50' on Sunday. His time of 2:22:24 was 8:20 too fast for runner up Peter Holland. Andrew was also fastest on handicap. However, the biggest surprise of the day was that they both stayed dry! Your webmaster was less lucky, spending two hours under a continuous downpour on his way to the Eastern Region AGM which followed the event. The full result is on the 2008 Results page.

Gazette Deadline - 16th September

Would all officers and contributors please note that the deadline for the Autumn Gazette is September 16th.  The date is set so that we can get the Autumn Gazette out to members before the TA AGM.  We would welcome articles, information, photographs and reports in advance of that deadline.  We realise that some regional annual general meetings are scheduled after September 16th.  If the regional secretaries let us know we will do our best to add late information to their reports, but advance notice of any perceived problem would be helpful.
Roger Alma, Editor

Geoff Booker wins at Mildenhall and takes Criterium League

Geoff Booker notched up his fourth win in the Criterium League grass track event at Mildenhall taking an unassailable lead into the final event at Warwick with 49 points out of a possible 50. Roger Akers second place in the event reinforced his second place in the lead as did Martin Badham in third. The full result is on the 2008 results page.

Barry Charlton 55:02 in EA VTTA '25'

Fergus Muir, our Eastern Captain reports that Barry Charlton, Lyme RC, missed Competition Record by 3 seconds in the East Anglian VTTA 25 today (Saturday) recording a superb 55:02 on the E2/25 Newmarket by-pass course. Other riders were over 30 seconds behind recent best rides, so it is only a matter of time Barry.

Course Change - South Eastern Region '25' - 21 September

Due to possible road resurfacing and road closures on the day of this event, I have had to change the course from Q25/8 (Chilham) to Q25/20 Harrietsham, with the start time still 08.00hrs. This event is a Tricyclists' Time Trial League event. The SE AGM will still be at The Halfway House, Challock, after the event, as originally planned. Mark Vowells

Southern Rides

Results of events in the South West and the South East on 10th August have been added to 2008 Results .
Briefly Adrian Hills had a lonely ride as the only competitor, you can't get a purer time trial than that.
Andrew Nye rode his second consecutive 12 hr to win in windy Kent with Peter Holland not far behind.

Championship Weekend

Entries are invited for the 10 and 25 mile Championship, details as follows:

Sept 12-14 Fri – Sun Spelling Weekend at Axe and Compass, Wolvey.
Food available all weekend.
Friday - Camping in field at back of Axe and Compass no charge only donation for charity.

Saturday – Morning short Clubrun to local garden centre for 11’s. Afternoon Jenny Noad ‘10’ followed by Midland AGM. Evening get together with meal in the ‘Axe’.
First rider off: 15:01
Entry Fee: £6.00 (£12.00 tandems) to Greta Spiers.

Sunday – Stan Spelling ‘25’
First Rider off: 09:01
Entry Fee: £6.00 (£12.00 tandems) to Greta Spiers
followed by Prize presentation then on to Warwick.

Entries close for both events 2nd September 2008 but the earlier the better, please!

Sept 14 Sun Warwick Criterium – 4.30pm
This year unfortunately the criterium is on the same day as the Spelling 25 but will not start until 4.30pm so we will have plenty of time to get to Warwick after the event.

The Course K41/25 (click for an aerial view)

The course is 2.14 laps of a 11.68mile circuit, as follows:
Start on B4114 0.25 mile southwest of junction with A5 (Smockington) in line with field gate on left opposite western end of layby on right. Proceed southwest to Wolvey (Axe and Compass) Island, where take first exit to follow unclassified road towards Lutterworth to island junction with A5 (Cross in Hand). Take first exit to follow A5 through Smockington to turn left onto B4114 to pass through start point to commence second circuit. Follow second circuit, as above, to pass through start point a second time and commence the third (partial) circuit to follow the unclassified road from the Wolvey (Axe and Compass) Island towards Lutterworth to Finish 0.25 miles past turning for Copston Magna in line with the first chevron bend warning sign.





Distances: Lap 1Lap 2Lap 3(Partial)
Start (see above)0.0m11.68m23.36
Wolvey Island0.91m12.59m24.27m
Finish (see above)1.64m13.32m25.00m
A5 Island6.38m18.06m

PLEASE NOTE – This course does not go to the motorway island – it is a circuit with all left turns

Bury St Edmunds Grass Track Event 10th August 2008

Following the re-scheduled refreshment taken at the Scandinavian Coffee House in the centre of Bury, we repaired to Hardwick Middle School for the latest round in the Trike Criterium League.
The West Suffolk Wheelers organised this event and it was a pity there was a poor showing generally. Maybe they were all watching Nicole getting her Gold Medal.
However we had a good showing of the barrow boys and girls.
The League points were settled on the 400m scratch event. Roger Akers, Geoff Booker, Ian Matthews and Martin Badham fought out the final and finished in that order. Ferg Muir, Greta Spiers and Mick Madgett went out in the heats and all score 6 points each.
In the 3 lap handicap, Mick crossed the line first followed by Ferg with Martin trying hard to catch up the last of the 100m. I believe Ian came in next with Geoff and then Greta behind, though Ian and Geoff maybe have been the other way around. I was still getting my breath back at the time.
In the Flying Start1 lap time trial, Geoff carried on flying to finish 2 minutes faster than Roger. Mick, Ian, Martin and Ferg completed the list.
Negotiations were opened with the Plomesgate CC, who hold a grass track nearby on the Saturday and we may be able to make it a two day affair next year.

12 hours of Eastern Promise

Sunday 3rd August 2008 dawned with a scurrying in the car-park at Scoulton Village Hall, deep in the heart of Norfolk. Martin Badham arrived to find John Thompson preparing for his ride.
Soon Don Saunders and his merry band of helpers (early shift) arrived and the competitors started to roll in.
Six o'clock and I rolled away from the timekeeper to get the show on the road. Andrew Nye and John soon caught me, Jim Pitt was DNS with apology, as we wound through the quiet roads before joining the A11 for the next nine hours. The weather was over-cast with occasional showers, which kept the temperature down after last year.
About tea-time we left the A11 for the 5 mile ride to the circuit, riding at our best possible speed to finish at our selected time-keepers.
Back to the village hall for tea, cakes and discussion of the event befor packing up and heading home.
John was the fastest on scratch with Andrew top handicap performer. I was satisfied with exceeding my distance last year, and being within spitting distance of my vets' standard.
Unfortunately after 12 hours I didn't have a lot of spit left.
The result is on our 2008 Results page.
Photos on http://www.mphotography.co.uk/ and http://ccbreckland.fotopic.net/.

Bury St Edmunds Grass Track

This is a plug for the West Suffolk Wheelers Grass Track on August 10, at Hardwick Middle School , Bury St Edmunds. Starts 12 noon.

Mixture of events, including trikes, and races for cyclo cross bikes, for those riders without track bikes, who want to see what its like.

Entries accepted by email, or on the line.

Signposted from Bury St Eds East junction on A14

Barry Denny barry.denny@homecall.co.uk

John Purser tells me that he would have space for tents or caravans for the Bury grass track weekend, but emphasises that people interested should give him and his wife plenty of warning - anyone interested should ring - 01787 377060. He is about 12 miles from Bury.

Peter Holland wins East '25'

Peter Holland was the clear winner of the Eastern Region '25' on the "sporting" B25/17 course between Diss and Thetford. His 1:18:24 was 3:29 too good for second place Ian Mackenzie, with Martin Badham in third with 1:25:00 and his net time of 46:59 gave him the handicap award by 3:28. The full result is on our 2008 Results page. Half the field, or to put it another way, Martin and Mike Moody continued on a club run afterwards, which is reported on in the recently introduced East News page.

Nick Wood wins North West '10'

Nick Wood repeated his recent win in the North Eastern '25' across the Pennines in the North Western '10' with a clear win in 24:23 with Alan Shuttleworth second in 29:31 and Brian Moore third in 30:03. Brian Moore won the Cumbria Shield for the fastest on handicap with a net of 18:23, 19 seconds ahead of Nick. The full result is on the 2008 Results page. These results moved Nick up to 10th on actual and 12th on handicap in the Tricyclists Time Trial League but the top places remain unchanged.

Belated News - Ilton Criterium

Apologies to Ian for the delay in publishing this report.
Ilton Trike Criterium 7th June 2008

Results:
1 Geoff Booker
2 Steve Avery
3 Roger Akers
4 Jeff Jones
5 Ian Matthews
6 Greta Spiers

From notes taken:

Triangular airfield course, with two long straights and one short one. Strawbale chicane.
Open and windy.

First lap: Greta and Emma drop off, later Gawain Akers also dropped.

Leaves 5 together at front. then Ian Matthews drops off.

At around half distance (10 minutes) Steve Avery attacks. Geoff Booker chases. Roger joins up with Geoff.

Regroup (presumably); Geoff gets away on own and stays clear to finish with Steve also on own in second.

Ralph Dadswell and Paul Mace 20:55

Ralph Dadswell found a new stoker from High Wycombe CC, Paul Mace and they delivered one of the fastest 10's of recent years on a tandem trike in the Antelope RT Tandem '10' on Saturday. Their 20:55 was just 5 seconds slower than Dave Keene and Barry Charlton in 2006.

David Stone selected for Paralympics

The Great Britain Paralympic team for Beijing was announced on July 7th. It includes our World Champion David Stone, who, after his brilliant riding is Asse, must be one of the favourites for gold. Picture of David courtesy of Fred Homan.

10 mile Competition Record

This afternoon Carl Saint of the Yorkshire Road Club did 10 miles on trike in 21:02, (3 seconds faster than Glenn Longland's record ).

He was off at 15:30 in the Yorkshire Ladies CA Men's 10 on V718 near Hull

Comments from Carl to congratulations posted on a forum:-

"Thanks guys"

"Little bit more will come off once I can corner on it faster than walking pace They were all shouting at me to get a move on, at the roundabouts."

Thanks to Martin P for photos.

Geoff Booker wins Thames Valley '10'

Geoff Booker won a closely fought Thames Valley '10' on Saturday in 25:12 by just 19 seconds from Steve Avery, with South Eastern visitor Mark Vowells third a further 20 seconds back. Mark had the consolation of winning the handicap award with a net of 24:36, 21 seconds ahead of Geoff. The full result is on the 2008 Results page.

Ralph Dadswell wins Fliss Beard Trophy

Although Ralph Dadswell was the only rider in the National Championship '100' on Sunday, with Jim Pitt a non-starter, it should not detract from a superb ride of 4:32:54 on a difficult, windy day as everyone will testify. He was also 14th of 47 finishers. The conditions stopped 20 from starting and a further 11 from finishing!

Horwich Tricycle Criterium 22nd June 2008

Five tricyclists lined up to contest this event, part of the Carnival celebrations which also saw Joanna Rowsell cement her claim on the National Ladies Criterium Championship.
Competitors were Alan Shuttleworth, Adrian Hills, a bruised Ferg Muir, local bike shop owner Jack Aspden and Martin Badham. Jack had ridden his conversion 15 years earlier and had put it together specially for the race.
With the roads still warm from the ladies' wheels we were set off. The penny farthings that were supposed to be mingling with us did not appear, which was probably for the best.
Alan Shuttleworth declared his intention of holding on to his record, leaving the rest of us trailing in his wake. Adrian Hills and Martin Badham pursued until he got out of sight, and then Adrian started to drop back. Three quarters of the way around the second and last lap I became aware of shadow bearing down on me and soon Ferg Muir was breathing down my neck. Approaching the uphill finish he pulled in front but I managed to squeeze my tyre in front for the line. Results at 2008 Results.

TA (NE) York Rally 25

This was held on Boroughbridge on 21st June 2008 and as befits mid-summer day the rain started at the same time as the event. Nick Wood sped round to claim the Bernard Wood trophy and The Henderson Cup for first handicap went to Frank Whitelock. Although five of us rodeout to the start in not too inclement weather we managed to squeeze machines and bodies into all sorts of corners in vehicles to splash back to the Knavesmire.
The evening persisted with plenty of rain, which gave way in the morning to high winds, making the ride back from the Minster hard going, especially fo those aboard ordinaries.
See 2008 Results

World Championship Results

Roger Alma reports that the road race was ridden on a tough and technical circuit, ideal for tricycle racing. It was made more difficult by being run in a thunder storm! Antoine Bavay was the most aggressive rider, but his chain slipped off the block in the sprint and he freewheeled over the line, a frustrated fourth. Kristof De Plecker was an impressive winner of a brilliantly exciting race. CP2 world champion David Stone had an outstanding ride, always in contention and contesting the final sprint in front of an enthusiastic Belgian crowd.

Dave Keene retain his Time Trial crown with a clear win by 26 seconds from Kristof De Plecker, but only 9 seconds separated the next five riders!

The top 6 plus Womens and CP1 & 2 results are given in our 2008 Results page.

There is a lot more information on the World Championship site - follow these links to read more:
Full Time Trial Result
Full Road Race Result
Steve Avery & Adrian Hill's Report
David Stone's Report on the British Cycling website.

Bruce Kingsford Weekend 2008

A Gallery of photographs taken by Johnny Pardoe plus a few from the Webmaster at the Bruce Kingsford 50 mile Championships won by Dave Keene is now avaiable for viewing.

Mark Vowells wins South Eastern '50'

Mark Vowells returned to his winning ways to take the South Eastern Region '50'. A slightly windy morning and a headwind finish took the edge off the times but his winning 2:22:10 was almost 6 minutes better than second place Chris Bramwell with Andrew Nye in third with 2:37:22. Andrew just took the handicap award with 2:21:22 net ahead of Mark and Ian Mackenzie. The full details are on our 2008 Results page.
This was also the eighth event in the season long Time Trial League. Andrew Nye increased his lead with Adrian Hills moving up to 2nd just ahead of Jim Pitt. The full details are on the Time Trial League page.

Andrew & Caroline Nye win Invicta Trophy

The VTTA (Kent) Tandem 30 was held on Sunday (1st June), incorporating the Invicta Trophy for the fastest pair on tandem trike.  Mark Vowells reports that the winners of Invicta Trophy were Andrew and Caroline Nye with 1-30-36.  This was their first tandem trike ride in open competition, and an excellent ride.  Unfortunately the other tandem trike pair, John Healey and Tim Wardlow were DNS, as Tim was unwell on the day.  There were no other tandem entries, so Andrew and Caroline also won the VTTA event itself. The 30 was held on Q30/12 - Lydd to Ashford and back.
 
Andrew then led the club run that followed, from Charing to Rhodes Minnis and back, a 47 mile ride that was well supported with 20 members and friends of the Region at the lunch, including eight who arrived by trike or tandem trike.

National Championship 50 - 25th May 2008

The Bruce Kingsford Memorial 50 was held again on the roads of Shropshire, and again Spring Bank Holiday weather prevailed. At least the start and the first half was dry with the added relish of a stiff South Easterly wind. By Prees Heath, Steve Avery was first on the road and he carried on to finish with second place. All the barriers that kept the rest of the field outside evens seemed to melt before Dave Keene's wheels, who finished in 2 hours 7 minutes and 35 seconds. At the other end of the field a hot tussle between Roger Alma and Martin Badham resulted in the latter claiming First Handicap by 31 seconds. Full results in the 2008 Results.
The afternoon club-run to Roden Garden Centre was rained off but Ferg valiantly rode into Shrewsbury to view the twin pumps that were being steamed at the sewerage works. He assures me that they no longer pump in anger and the real stuff goes through electric pumps. After marvelling at the engineering Ferg followed the cycle path alongside the canal to the East and returned to Astley by a nice quiet route.
Celia's catering was in great demand, A second version of chicken casserole appeared soon after the demise of the first on Saturday night. The rain stopped before Sunday evening and a blustery night dried off the tents ready for packing on Monday morning. I doubt if the riders in the Anfield 100, including our own Peter Holland, were as appreciative as some of us. Peter finished with 6:20:58 with two bikes behind him, Chapeau!
While Andrew Nye stills heads both Scratch and Handicap tables in the 2008 Tricyclists Time Trial League, the subsequent positions have been shuffled somewhat.

Ian Finch wins South Eastern '10'

Ian Finch continued his domination of South Eastern Region events with a clear win in their '10' held on Saturday. Ian's 25:58 was too good for Mark Vowells, second in 27:11 with Richard Bailey completing the top three in 28:39. John Hastings took the handicap award with a personal best 31:57 - 24:27 net.

Good news from La Belle Pays

Gerry Lewis (Retired National Treasurer) had a triple bypass earlier this week (in Bordeaux) and is doing fine. Due to go to a convalescence home next Monday. John Purser may get to see him next week and can take your bunches of grapes, but they may have been crushed on the way.....

Albert Saunders - June 19th 1920 - 28th April 2008

A familiar figure in Eastern tricycling events for more years than most people can remember Albert Saunders, founder member of Cycling Club Breckland, died on Monday 28th April after a long illness aged 87.
Albert enjoyed riding his tricycle and regularly attended the Eastern AGM and luncheon,as well as timing Eastern events, until a few years ago. He presided over a cycling dynasty which continues to the fourth generation.
Albert's funeral is at 11:15 a.m. on Wednesday 14th May 2008, at Earlham Crematorium in Norwich. Family flowers only, but donations if desired to East Anglia's Childrens' Hospices or Shipdham Surgery please, c/o Co-operative Funeral Services, Watton Thetford, IP25 6AH.

Our sympathies to Margaret and all the family.

David Stone

Have you seen the successes achieved by our world paralympic champion David Stone in the recent Tour in Spain? There is an excellent report on the British Cycling website, under Disability News (which can be found in the list on the left-hand side of the home page.) The report is the second item of Disability News, on the Tour of Bizkaia.
www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/gbr/EventReports2008/20080504_tour_of_bizkaia.asp

Last call for Asse!

This is a reminder that entries for the World Tricycle Championships on 15th June 2009.
Entries close on 12th May 2008, this Monday coming.

We have received a good number of entries, including some new paralympic riders from France, Belgium and Holland; however, we are hoping for a record field and look forward to receiving more entries by the deadline of May 13th. Entry forms and information are attached to this notice, and Andre's website www.3wielweb.be also has a good deal of interesting information.

All competitors will receive a free colour booklet setting out the history of the World Tricycle Championships!
Contact Rogeralma21@aol.com for further information.
Entries to
Roger Alma, 28 Lansdowne Gardens, Llantarnam, Cwmbran, NP44 3GB.

Telephone: 01633 861266

Entry Forms for downloading:
Microsoft Word : World Tricycle Championships Entry Form 2008.doc
Adobe PDF : World Tricycle Championships 2008.pdf

National Championship Criterium - Ixworth

Geoff Booker continued to show the rest of the field a receding view of his broad gauge machine as he whipped it around the streets of Ixworth on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon. The chasing trio, Jeff Jones, Roger Akers and Mick Madgett finished in that order after a fine piece of working together. Ian Mackenzie managed to keep in front of Ferg Muir and Ian Matthews swept up the finishing straight with Martin Badham clutching at his coat-tails. Gawain Akers and Greta Spiers completed the field on a warm day. Then it was back to the HQ for tea and cakes. Results 2008 Results and Criterium League positions have been updated. Photos of this event are on http://www.mphotography.co.uk/ and in our own Criterium 2008 Gallery courtesy of Emma Kirby.

Carl Saint wins Mike Dixie '10' in 21:28

Carl Saint continued his high speed introduction to tricycling with a clear win in the Mike Dixie Memorial '10' with 21:28, the third fastest ride ever (behind Glen Longland 21:05 and Steve Brown 21:14). On a near perfect morning on the fast V718 Course on the A63 near Hull there were records and personal bests galore. Carl's ride was an event record and Les Dawson also set a Vet's age record with a remarkable 26:55 at the age of 81! Dave Keene was runner up in 21:53 and Jenny Noad winner Nick Wood was third in 23:05. The tandem event was won by Charles McCulloch and Richard Bailey of Shorter Rochford RT in an Event and Course Record of 17:45, the Mixed Tandem event was won by Mark & Liz Johnson, also in an Event and Course Record of 19:57 and the Tandem Tricycle event was won by Jim Hopper and Andy Eagers in 21:39.

The Mike Dixie Handicap Trophy went to Andy Such of Scunthorpe RC with a net 17:28.

Andrew Nye took fourth place and increased his lead in the Tricycle League, for which this was the 6th counting event, followed by Adrian Hills and a fast closing Jim Pitt.

Thanks to Event Secretary, Martin Purser for his fine set of photos from the event.

Dave Keene wins Eastern Region '25'

Dave Keene was again in a class of his own when he won the Eastern Region '25' near Sleaford on Saturday in breezy conditions on a challenging course in 1:01:52. The ride was also good enough to take second handicap. Andrew Nye was another of the travelers making a long weekend of it at Peter and Gwyneth's May Day Weekend in Lincolnshire and took second place, narrowly failing to beat 'evens" in 1:15:08 and took third on handicap. Completing the top three was Jim Pitt whose 1:16:08 netted to 1:01:08 to win the handicap prize. Photos from the event can be found on Steve Foreman's www.lincsracephotos.co.uk website. The weekend continued on Sunday with an enjoyable saunter around the Lincolnshire lanes for a Pace Judging Competition, where Ferg Muir achieved the remarkable feat of riding three trikes in seventeen miles to within 3 minutes of his target time! The webmaster's family came an honourable second. On Monday four left for the North and the Mike Dixie 10's and another four went south to Ixworth for the Criterium Championship.

A weekend to look forward to ...

The sun is shining, it's a Bank Holiday and it looks like a great weekend in prospect for TA members. It all starts on Friday when people start to gather at Peter & Gwyneth's for their Mayday Camping Weekend. On Saturday Dave Keene makes the long trip from the West Country for the '25' on a sporting course near Sleaford, but no likelihood of records, so he can warm down with Sunday's Pace Judging Competition and a pub lunch.

Dave then moves North for the 22nd Mike Dixie '10' where he is again off scratch in the solo event. He faces stiff competition from new tricyclist Carl Saint, provided he successfully negotiates the two turn roundabouts! Carl's first two 10's were 23:18 and 24:01. Also riding is last year's Jenny Noad winner, Nick Wood. They are joined by thirteen other trikes, two tandem trikes and 14 tandems, so motorists on the A63 are due for a rare sight. Could Glen Longland's long standing Competition Record of 21:05 be under threat. The event starts at 10.01 am. Watch this space!

For those who prefer tight turns and short sharp climbs every mile, then the National Criterium Championship is being run, also on Bank Holiday Monday, at Ixworth. There is racing all afternoon, with trikes scheduled for 1.55pm. A great days spectator sport, or if you get carried away then entries are being accepted on the line.

Geoff Booker wins Thames Valley '25'

A brisk south westerly breeze failed to slow Geoff Booker as he returned to riding in straight lines to win the Thames Valley '25' on Saturday 26th April. His 1.7.08 was enough to take first on actual and handicap and move him up to third spot in the Time Trial League. Andrew Nye improved by almost 7 minutes from the South Western '25' two weeks ago to take second on actual and handicap (1.7.47). Clifford Tremaine was third with 1.13.55 and Jim Pitt 4th with 1.15.02, but his handicap time of 1.9.35 was good enough for third on handicap. The full result is on the 2008 Results page. The Time Trial League Tables have also been updated, with Andrew Nye remaining in the lead 13 points ahead of last years winner, Adrian Hills. It looks as if this will be more keenly fought for under the new rules with all todays five riders in contention.

Dave Keene wins SW '25'

Another foul day for time trialling saw Dave Keene win the South Western Region '25' on April 12th by almost quarter of an hour in 1.3.41. Andrew Nye continued his tour of the regions for second place in 1.18.25 and Jim Pitt third in 1.20.08. Not surprisingly, Dave also took the handicap award but with Jim Pitt second with a net of 1.7.08 beating Andrew Nye into third in 1.7.25. The full rsults are on the 2008 Results page. This was the fourth event in the Time Trial League and confirmed Andrew's position at the top of both the Actual and Handicap tables.

Trike Criterium Details - Ilton Somerset

Details have been added to the Activity entry for the Tor Team 2000 Tricycle criterium on 7th June. A good warm-up before heading for Belgium. Ian tells us that they need a minimum of 8 riders to make a race, so sharpen up your hub nuts and get entering. Directions, including a map are available here:DirectionstoMerryfieldAirfield.doc.

You cannot fall off of a trike!

Although some means of dismounting are less graceful than others.
There were two such instances recently in the East:
Arriving at the start of the Stowmarket & District CC Hilly 20, East Captain, Ferg Muir intended to dismount opposite the timekeeper, put his foot down and rolled into a ditch.
He claims a culvert was camouflaged by long grass.

More details of the event itself on the East Region pages:

At the CC Breckland club 10 the other day, Martin Badham arrived after a hectic 20 mile thrash after work and in dismounting managed to tip the barrow over and knot his calf with cramp. I am still trying to work out which came first.

The main requirement of these less than dignified dismounts is that they should be performed before the largest possible audience!

In both cases there is no photgraphic evidence. (Shame!)

Victory in Victoria Park for Booker

The first event in the Tricycle Criterium League was held in Victoria Park, Leamington Spa on 12th April. With some barrowboys supporting the Tricycle League in Somerset the entry was down to thirteen with ten lining up on a brisk bright morning. After watching Jeff Jones warm up in a bike race we inspected the chicanes added too spice up the course and followed Captain Greta to the first bend, then the dogs were let loose. A group of five kept together for the first lap or so before Geoff Booker launched a sprint that left everyone but Jeff Jones trailing in his wake. Martin and Peter worked together until Roger joined us with Ian and Ferg behind, and then Gawain, Greta and Emma. Emma is a new member who has been attending these events as a spectator during 2007. Unfortunately she had a couple of little spills as she rode around and can claim to be a proper trikie with a graze on her elbow as a result.
The order of the event stayed much the same with the three groups working away and the others riding to finish.
Geoff finally launched another sprint that gained him top points in the competition with Jeff Jones second. The next group crossed the line Roger, Peter then Martin and finally Ian, Ferg, Gawain, Greta and Emma.
After the event a club-run rode to Radford Semele to meet car assisted members for lunch at the White Lion. Results 2008 Results and league positions have been updated. Pictures taken by the apres-criterium runs leader Steve Walker at Criterium 2008, and a few on the www.britishcycling.org.uk website. If anyone has others please send to Martin Badham.

Malcolm Waters wins Ed Green Memorial Trophy

The Nelson Wheelers CC 'Circuit of the Dales' 50 was held in near freezing conditions on Sunday, but at least the snow held off until the riders had finished. Fastest trike was Geoff Booker in 3:05:22, meaning that Geoff took over the lead in the 2008 Tricyclists Time Trial League by 1 point from Andrew Nye. Second fastest in 3:20:35, winner of the Ed Green Memorial Trophy for the fastest trike on handicap with a net of 2:10:35 and also the new leader in the 2008 Tricyclists Time Trial League Handicap competition was Malcolm Walters. Roger Alma, Peter Holland, Martin Badham and Adrian Hills also braved the elements, although Adrian failed to finish. The full result is on the 2008 Results page. There is a fine set of photos of all the riders including Malcolm (left) to see and buy at Martin Henson's www.cyclingimages.co.uk website.

Ralph Dadswell wins Thames Valley Hilly '30'

The weather provided real hardriders conditions as it was very cold, very windy and rather damp for the Thames Valley Hilly '30', despite being held almost a month later than last year. Ralph Dadswell's winning 1:36:11 was 8 minutes slower than last year but still 25 minutes too fast for runner up, Geoff Booker. Andrew Nye was third and the only other rider inside 2 hours. Jim Pitt was the clear winner of the handicap with a net of 1:17:45, followed by Malcolm Waters and Andrew Nye. See our 2008 Results page for the full result. Andrew Nye took the lead in the 2008 Time Trial League on both actual and handicap.

T.A. Cycle Clothing

T. A. cycle clothing was discussed at the NEC and Jim Hopper and I were given the task of approaching manufacturers for quotations and arranging the procurement. We are currently in the process of doing this. We will only be ordering cycle tops to keep things simple. The design agreed was for crimson and gold tops featuring the TA logo and plain black shorts. A sample is shown on the left. The size of the logos is fixed and it will therefore occupy less of the jersey on larger sizes. It would be really helpful if members wishing to order any would contact me just to express an interest at present. Once we have agreed a supplier I would then contact those interested to place orders. E-mail me at trikingpursers@btinternet.com
Alison Purser

East Region "Spring?" 25 - Easter Sunday

The East Region 25 was held on March 23rd 2008 on the Bressingham - Thetford road in Norfolk. There were ten entrants. Peter Holland had the advantage of knowing what was on the way e-mailing his apology for not starting from underneath 2 inches of snow, and it's still pouring. Despite the misgivings of some present the event started in the snow and eight hardy (mad) souls lined up for the timekeeper with two deciding part-way round that enough was enough. Ian Mackenzie storming round to win in 1:27:57 and take 1st handicap. Photos.
In the supporting events (medium gear and Pre1980 spec 25). the starters were a far lower percentage but John Malseed teetered around the course on his Ordinary in two and a quarter hours. Full results in the 2008 Results.

Ian Finch wins South Eastern '25'

Ian Finch was the fitting winner of the first event of the season. The number two start position was dedicated to his father and our President, Bill who passed away on 10th January. Ian overcame a strong wind, rain and even more impressively the event organiser and scratch rider, Marl Vowells to win by over three minutes in 1:9:17. Mark was second with 1:12:20 and Roy Canning took third with 1:17:36. John Hastings took the Handicap award with 1:3:43. Full details are on our 2008 Results page.

Tricycle Association Gazette Photographic Competition

In the Winter 2008 edition of the Gazette we plan to publish a “Tricycling Through the Year” centre section of photographs.  (A similar feature was published in the Winter 2006 Gazette.)  For this year’s edition we invite members to submit photographs for inclusion.  We need photographs for all the months of the year, covering as wide range of tricycling activities as possible, from racing, though touring to carrying out repairs.  There will be a prize for what we consider to be the best contribution.  You can send in your entries at any time, the deadline being the deadline for the Winter Gazette.  We will need pictures from 2007 for November/December.  For the rest of the months the photographs should be taken in 2008.  Please indicate the month in which the photographs you send in were taken and suggest a caption for each.  We can copy prints and return the originals.
 
Roger and Myra Alma

World Tricycle Championship, St Marsault 2009

David Heighway does not wish to act as event secretary for the 2009 World Tricycle Championship in St Marsault. There is an excellent team of organisers in place in the French village where the Tricycle Association has enjoyed hospitality since 1998; however, at the February meeting of the National Executive Committee no one could be identified to take David’s place and it was decided that, out of fairness to the French organisers, if no one came forward to take David’s place by the time of the May NEC meeting this year (2008), the race would have to be cancelled. This would be a great disappointment to the people of St Marsault and great loss to the Tricycle Association. If you are interested in helping, please contact the Honorary Secretary, Norman Fenn, as soon as possible.

World Tricycle Championships, Asse, June 15, 2008

Entries are beginning to come in for the World Tricycle Championships this year, including new competitors from France and Belgium. Details of the races planned and the social activities of the weekend can be found elsewhere on the TA website, on Andre Van Bosbeke’s Belgian website www.3wielweb.be and in the TA Gazette. Entries must be in by May 12, but early notification of your intention to ride or support would be very welcome, to help our Belgian friends organise camping and other accommodation.
Contact Rogeralma21@aol.com for further information.

Get your Criterium Season planned

The 2008 National Criterium League starts on 12th April with the Victoria Park Criteriums. Full details and the organiser's address are given on the British Cycling website Victoria Park Criteriums. Allow plenty of time for signing on due to the large fields for all events. Geoff Booker faces stiff competition this year as Jeff Jones has just joined the Association so is obviously aiming for a first year win. Greta is again offering accommodation over the weekend from Friday evening and a club run on Sunday but we must have 12 entries for the event to go ahead and these must be in advance as entries are not allowed on the line. See the Winter Gazette for full details.

On the Mayday Bank holiday on 5th May we have the National Criterium Championship.

On Sunday 22nd June at 4:20pm we have the Horwich Carnival Criterium near Bolton. These is a fantastic day out with events for all ages, running, bicycling, tricycling and even ordinaries racing over a tight triangular closed circuit with a significant hill each lap.

To whet your appetite we have created a Criterium Archive with reports from all last year's races.

All the events are listed at the bottom of this page.

Bill Finch

Tricycle Association President Bill Finch passed away on 10th January 2008 after losing his year long battle with cancer.

His funeral was held on 24th January and was attended by his family and many friends from the South Eastern cycling community including our Chairman, Brenda Jackson and many of Bill's TA friends.

He will be missed by us all.

South Eastern Region '25' and AGM

Please note that the South Eastern Region '25' and AGM shown in the Gazette and CTT Handbook as 14th September 2008 has been moved to 21st September to avoid a clash with the Jenny Noad / Stan Spelling Weekend.

North Eastern Regional Lunch

The menu for the North Eastern Regional Lunch at Easingwold has been released. Whet you appetite here.

Little boys and water

With these words ringing in my ears I left my mother's house in Sudbury to meet up with the Eastern Ford Storming detachment. This was to be a shallower version of February's tour of the fords around the Box valley in South-West Suffolk.

First I met Dave Huffey at Lavenham church and we descended to "Sweetmeats" where the proprietor was greasing his trumpet slide. We climbed the stairs to the cafe and the sax-man, son of the trumpet player and brother of the guitar player. This morning he was more involved with preparing the tea-cakes and coffee. Ferg arrived soon after us, and we were just reaching the bottom of the cafeteaire when Adrian Hills rolled up for the latest part of a hectic weekend taking in the Glendene Cycle Jumble and the Thames Valley hostel weekend at Milton Keynes before a few hours sleep and then driving over to join us.

Refreshed we rode out of Lavenham to Frogs Hall Road, when we arrived at the ford the frogs were hibernating, but a gentleman was washing his car in the stream. After several passes and Fergus B DeMuir getting upset with us for not riding through in a pack we headed, initially back to Lavenham but then off to Preston St Mary and Monks Eleigh. Just off the lane was the second ford on the entrance to a farm. This time we satisfied the director with a formation ride in both directions.
The forecasted rain began as we set off for lunch at the Wheelhouse in Naughton. I stopped to put on my cape, thinking that I would soon catch the others up but the next hill descended into Monks Eleigh, coming from such a direction that I couldn't recognise where I was and started bashing on the way to Hadleigh. I soon realised that I was wrong and returned, recognised the junction and made for Chelsworth and Bildeston, getting to the pub where Paul Willsher, Alan Nye and Roy Proctor were sampling the brews. John Purser arrived and still my erstwhile companions had not got there. They arrived shortly having taken a different route from Chelsworth, soon followed by Jill Cole and Tandy, and then Geoff Morse. Soup and Huffers (Baps) were dispatched and we headed for home about three.

The forecast had been decidedly wet, so we were lucky to get away with a fairly dry day. Most of the rain fell while we were in the pub.

Tricyclist's Time Trial League events for 2008

Tricyclist League events are listed here, so start planning now. 30 points in each event for the fastest ride reducing by one point for each lower placing. New for 2008 - A minimum of 6 events to count, points decided on the best 10 events of the 16 events on offer. Events comprise 1 x Overseas, 2 x 10's, 8 x 25's, 2 x Hilly's, 2 x 50's, 1 x 12hr so there is something for everyone. Traveling can be reduced by picking the 10 nearest. Why not give it a try this year. There is even a handicap prize.

Bernard Thompson

You will have heard that THE 'Cycling' photographer Bernard Thompson has died, Although I don't think that he was ever a tricyclist there must be many TA members who were 'snapped' by him in his long and busy career.

Bernard's funeral will be on Thursday next week, the 29th, in Lyddington Church, Rutland, at 2.30 pm.

I don't know if this is really TA News: but Bernard and Eth were truly committed cyclists through and through, and so nice, and kind.

Submitted by Martin Purser, I certainly remember Bernard at National Championships and even appeared in Cycling's pages, caught plugging through the dusk in the Wessex 24 by Bernard's lens.

The photograph of Bernard was taken by Eth and comes from "A Time Trial Album" - A selection of 300 of his photographs.

Afters:

Next morning after breakfast we held the AGM, Business was fairly brisk with all officials holding their jobs. There were changes to the committee with Martin Badham and Pete Martin being replaced by Jim Pitt and Geoff Booker.
The Tricycle League constitution was discussed and for 2008, each region will nominate two events to count, plus the Circuit of the Dales and the International event, this year in Asse. A minimum of 6 events to count, points decided on the best 10 events. The Criterium League points system was reversed to make it simpler to administer. The Bruce Kingsford 50 will maintain it's position on Spring Bank Holiday Sunday, and any change of date of a National championship to be brought to the NEC meeting 18 months before the AGM prior to the event being held. Tommy Thompson and Stan Tuffnell's names will be added to the "Role of Honour". The other major change was a further reduction of membership fees to £10 (£5 for family members at the same address as main member).

So would all regional committees let Peter Holland know their proposed pair of events for inclusion in the League as soon as possible. Thankyou.

Entrée:

A little later we gathered in the restaurant for the pre-prandial noggin and natter. Due to the building work the meal was held in what we remember as the restaurant behind the hotel, and 81 diners enjoyed a jolly good meal. Unfortunately the acoustics were more suitable for intimate conversations than cross-toasts, although the tradition was upheld valiantly especially when saluting the three tandem trike End-to-enders in the room. Similarly the speeches suffered a little, Chief guest, John Arnold taking a central position in the room for reminiscences of his record breaking career, notably the Tandem-trike End to end that Ralph Dadswell and Dave Johnson attempted in the summer. Prizes for the afternoon’s event were awarded, followed by the raffle and the awarding of trophies and certificates for the past season. Then more chatting and bed, remembering that hour that had to go back.

The Tricycle Association Gazette Photographic Competition

Members are invited to take part in a photographic competition, the results of which will be published in the Winter Gazette. You may submit one or two photographs taken by yourself in the last year. A tricycle should appear in the photograph. The photographs may be in black and white or colour, but will be printed in black and white. There will be a prize for the winning photograph. Entries may be sent as prints or e-mail attachments to the editor, Roger Alma, Rogeralma21@aol.com to arrive by the closing date for copy for the Gazette: November 13, 2007. Please identify the subject and suggest a caption.

National Reunion Weekend - 27th/28th October 2007

Aperitif:

The Quality Hotel, undergoing extensive refurbishment, was the venue for the weekend as in recent years. We arrived, changed and assembled for Greta to hand out jobs before a much reduced field (2 tandems and 4 solos) lined up to navigate the 7.5 mile Appetizer time trial. All competitors got round successfully to the cheers of the gallery at the finish. Results available on 2007 Results. Pictures of all the riders are in the Activities Gallery.

Having replenished calories with Greta’s famous cakes at the tea stall, thank you ladies, we drifted back to our rooms for a wash and brush-up.

Arthur Johnson

With great sadness we have to inform you of the passing away of Arthur 'Dad' Johnson on the morning of 30th September in hospital.

Tricycle Association events 2008

Preliminary details for 2008 time trials for all regions except South Western have now been entered in the Activities list.

Brian Moore wins Jack Riley Memorial Trophy

Brian Moore made a worthwhile trip to the South (for him) to win the Jack Riley memorial Trophy in the North Eastern '25' held on 23 September with a net time of 1:16:45. George Dawson was fastest, his 1:19 29 beating Brian by 16 seconds. The full result is on the 2007 Results page. You can see larger photos of Brian and George in our Activities Gallery.

John Thompson wins North Western '25'

Making a long trip North, John Thompson secured third place in the Tricyclist's Time Trial League by winning the North Western Region '25' in 1:7:38, also taking the Thorburn Trophy for fastest rider. Peter Brocklehurst was second in 1:14:14 and Vic Trigger third with 1:15:34. Brian Moore took the Handicap award and Thorburn Handicap Trophy with a net 47:44. The full result is on the 2007 Results page.

New Venue for North West 'Closer'

The North Western Lunch and Prize Presentation has a new venue:
Cobble Hey Farm & Gardens, Hobbs Lane' Claughton-on-Brock, Garstang, Preston, PR3 0QN, Map ref: SD 536449

12:00 for 12:30 - Cost £16.50 per person, cheques to E.A. Rogerson please. See Cobble Hey's website for directions. It will also be signposted with TA signs from the A6. Alan Rogerson 01254 661486.

Adrian Hills wins the Tricyclist's League

Adrian Hills extended his lead in the season long Tricyclist's Time Trial League competition with fifth place in the South Eastern Region '25' to win the competition with 162 points, having ridden seven of the 10 events. League organiser Peter Holland was second with 132 points and John Thompson overtook Geoff Booker for third place by winning the North Western '25". The full table for the season can be found on the Tricyclist's League page.

Mark Vowells wins South Eastern '25'

Mark Vowells, San Fairy Ann CC again dominated the Soth Eastern Region '25', his winning time of 1:7:56 being over 3 minutes faster than second place Ian Finch. Andrew Nye was third with 1:14:29 and the handicap award went to Ken Pay with a net of 54:25. The full result is on our 2007 Results page. Adrian Hills 5th place consolidated his lead in the season long Time Trial League.

Barry Charlton wins Stan Spelling '25'

Barry Charlton stormed round to produce a Course and Championship Record winning 57:05 in the National Championship '25' for the Stan Spelling Trophy on Sunday 9th September. Dave Keene, Champion for the last three years, had to settle for second place with 59:30 and '10' Champion Nick Wood completed a successful weekend with third place in 1:03:11. The handicap award went to Ted Little, now in his 80's. He has ridden more Stan Spelling '25's' than any other rider and his actual time of 1:20:10 was only 10:46 slower than his first ride 34 years ago in 1973 when he did 1:9:24! Andrew Nye was second on handicap and Roger Alma third. The full result will be published as soon as it is released.

Nick Wood wins Jenny Noad '10'

Nick Wood, South Pennine RC, was the clear winner of the National 10 Mile Championship for the Jenny Noad Trophy held on 8th September. His time of 24:11 was 16 seconds ahead of Ralph Dadswell, 24:27 and 1:24 ahead of third placed Wayne Baker. Brian Griffiths took the handicap award with a net 22:16 with Vic Trigger second with 22:49. A gallery of photos from the Championship weekend is rapidly expanding. My thanks to Paul Kavanagh and Martin Purser for providing them. I have included a picture of Jenny Noad taken many years ago so we can all remember her. The full result is on the 2007 Results page.

Ian Matthews on BBC Horizon programme

BBC have made two Horizon programmes about the Caudwell Xtreme Everest Project, of which our South Western Region member Ian Matthews was part. These programmes will be shown on Sunday 23rd and 30th of September on BBC 2 at 8 o'clock. You can read Ian's article on the expedition here

East Region 50 mile TT

Held with the CC Breckland using the recently dualled Attleborough by-pass, Peter Holland finished inside evens with Jim Ithell, Ian Mackenzie and Adrian Hills completing the field. Results at 2007 Results.

David Stone takes two Golds

TA Member David Stone, who many of you will have met at our World Championships and the Hyde Park Criterium, repeated his wins of last year and took double Golds in the World Disability Championships in the Time Trial and Road Race in his CP2 (trikes) class. Full details can be found on the 2007 World Disability Cycling Championships page - Day 6 for the Time Trial and Day 8 for the Road Race. Congratulations. David on your wonderfull achievements. David now heads for Hong Kong for some acclimatisation time in the BPA holding camp in preparation for the Paralympic Games. We all wish him well.

John Thompson completes South Western Double

John Thompson completed a South Western Region double by winning their 25 with a storming 1:08:07. Second was Geoff Booker in 1:11:13 and third Steve Avery in 1:17:40. First Handicap went to Mac Timmis with a net 1:3:38. Due to the Webmaster's holidays the result of the South Western Region '10' on 28th July has only just been added to our 2007 Results page, with business as usual. John Thompson won in 27:04, Geoff Booker second by 15 seconds in 27:19 and Wayne Baker third in 27:26. Handicap went to Ian Matthews in a net 25:27, proving that training at altitude does work.

South Eastern 12 hour Time Trial

On the 12th August 2007 Andrew Nye of the Ashford Wheelers was the fastest tricyclist in the TA (South East) 12 hour amassing 194.985 miles. Close behind was Peter Holland, returning to Kent for 186.644 miles. He overtakes Adrian Hills in the Tricycle League points.
See results on 2007 Results and Tricyclists' Time Trial League.

Stan Tuffnell

It is with sadness that we inform you that former TA President Stan Tuffnell died at midnight 14/15th August, following a severe stroke about a month ago. The funeral arrangements are as follows:

Luton Crematorium at 11.15 am on Tuesday 28th August.

South Eastern 25 - 16 September

Because of Bill Finch's illness Mark Vowells has agreed to take over the running of the SE Region 25 on 16 September at 8.00hrs on Q25/8. The entry fee is £6-50 and his contact details are:
Mark Vowells, Denebank, Ash Road, Hartley, Longfield, Kent, DA3 8BH. Tel. 01474 705006.

Thoughts from the back of the tandem trike

Ferg has passed me on the following comments from David Johnson regarding last weekend's valiant attempt at Crimes & Arnold's Tandem Trike End to end RRA Record:

"We stopped because I, at least, couldn't go on. Age and infirmity may only just be peeking over the horizon, but I'm in my 50th year, and my resilience isn't what it was even when I was 40 or more. We were down on Schedule, but not down on the record, but all that is academic when you can't even freewheel any more."

"Perhaps hindsight indicates that a sleep, a good rehydrate, some painkillers, a wash and a change of clothes may have made a temporary respite possible, but I'm convinced that we could not have got to the top end of the land. The record was made by men who were better than us. My respect for them is unbounded."

All the best Ralph and Dave, it certainly was an exciting start to the weekend.

East Region Tricycle Association 12 hr

There was only one entry to the TA (East) 12 hour, Martin Badham of CC Breckland. On a rather hot day he finished with a provisional distance of 164 miles.

End to End Attempt as it happened

For those of you who miised Ralph Dadswell and David Johnson's attempt at the End to End Record we show below the log of the reports recieved during the attempt.

10 miles north of Lockerbie
Attempt abandoned.
11.20: The riders have had a short stop at Lockerbie. They are 35 minutes down on schedule after the section heading NW which has had a cross wind. Wind should now be more behind them again.
10.32: Tim Dadswell reported drying roads, and warmer conditions on the B7076 with a good following wind.
09.35: 3 miles south of Carlisle. Frank Minto reported that the riders had a good stop at 24 hrs for dry clothes and food. Good following wind.
24 hrs. Again (!) too close to call!
08.18: A66 roundabout at Penrith. Riders have pulled back the deficit to 11 minutes.
07.34: Ralph and Dave lost time on the climb of Shap Fell. 'Deeply horrible weather', but a following wind.
Now 24 mins. down on Schedule.
06.04: Tim Dadswell reports that Ralph and Dave had 5mins. nap during the night.
At Carnforth they were approx. 15 mins. down on the schedule, but they were riding well through wet weather, but with a strong southerly breeze.
02.24: North of Holmes Chapel and going better once more and regaining time. Now only 17 mins down on Schedule.
23.10: Following car reported that the tandem is now north of Wolverhampton. They passed the Waterloo Road check at 22.59 25 minutes down on schedule.
22.01: Riders were seen at Kidderminster 24 minutes down on schedule.
21.30: Ralph and Dave stopped at 12 hours to change and put on lights. The 12 hour distance is so close to the current record (257.75) that it will have to be measured before anyone will know if they have got it. At 21.30 they were underway again and joined the A449 north of Worcester.
19.45: At A38/A40 (231 miles) junction they were 2 minutes up on Schedule.
19.15: Following car reports that the riders were 5 minutes down at Slimbridge.
18.19: Riders seen at Filton, Bristol 8 minutes down on schedule. They have been slowed by heavy traffic.
17.25: Following car has just met up with riders again at Churchill. They are now on schedule leaving Churchill at 17.19.
17.20: Ralph and Dave were seen near Axbridge just before 17.00 so are still about 15 minutes up on schedule.
14.43: Ralph and Dave were 19 minutes up at Cullompton .
13.17: Ralph and Dave are 7 minutes up on schedule on the Okehampton bypass. Reasonable following wind.
11.30: George Smith reports that Ralph and Dave were half way along the Bodmin bypass (on schedule).
10.29: Dick Abram reports that 'they are going well' at the junction of the A390/A30.
09:00 Ralph Dadswell and Dave Johnson have left Land's End in fine conditions exactly on time.

FRIDAY AUG 3rd - the Ralph Dadswell/Dave Johnson attempt on the LANDS END - JOHN O'GROATS TANDEM TRIKE RECORD left Lands End at 9am. You can download their schedule here End To End Tan Tri v1.0.doc.

End to End attempt - Abandoned

Saturday 4th August as at 13:07

Regretfully the attempt by Ralph Dadswell and Dave Johnson on the RRA Land's End to John O'Groats Tandem Tricycle Record has been abandoned, we understand to the north of Lockerbie. Commiserations to Ralph, Dave and the team out on the road. A big thank you to all of you for your interest, help, and support over the past days.

If you missed the attempt live and would like to follow the progress of the attempt, a log of the reports is available in our News Archive.

RTTC National Championship 24hr (Mersey Roads CC)

Held over the weekend, on a very soggy day but this didn't stop bicyclist Eamonn Deanne topping 500 miles by just over a mile. Tricycle honours went to Jim Hopper (Derby Mercury RC) with 376.47 miles from Steve Poulton (Cheltenham & County CC) with 324.83.

East Region 25 mile Time Trial

Peter Holland finished the fastest of the four competitors riding the East Region Summer 25 on Sunday last, beating Peter Hopkins, Cliff Tremaine and Adrian Hills on the sporting course between Bressingham and Thetford. He also moved up to second in the Tricycle League behind Adrian.
Results posted in 2007 Results.

John Thompson wins Tricycle Trophy

John Thompson won the Tricycle Trophy with a fine 4:56:56 from Jim Hopper 5:18:37 in the RTTC National Championship '100'.

Steve Avery wins Thames Valley '10'

Steve Avery was on form to win the Thames Valley Region '10' with a 27:25 actual. His 26:28 on handicap also took the Handicap award. Geoff Booker was second, Alan Shuttleworth third and George Jackson fourth, all inside thirty minutes. The full result is on our 2007 Results page.

Keene and Charlton 1:43:46 for 50 miles

Racing in the North Notts Olympic '50' on Saturday night Dave Keene and Barry Charlton reduced their own 50 mile Tandem Tricycle Competition Record by 1min 27 sec to 1:43:46. Our roving reporter, Peter Hopkins, also recorded a personal best 2:26:58. No wonder they didn't fancy a trip to London on Sunday! Many congratulations to them both. This looks as if it will be a record breaking season all round.

Dadswell and Johnson notify 'End to End' attempt

Ralph Dadswell and David Johnson have given notice of an attempt on Albert Crimes and John Arnold's 12hr, 24hr, Land's End to John O'Groats and 1,000 mile records set in 1954. The ride will take place on or after 10th July but will only take place if weather conditions are suitable. You can download a copy of the schedule End To End Tan Tri v1.0.doc here. I will attempt to notify readers when and if the attempt starts. Details on following progress are given in the schedule.

Barry Charlton wins York Rally '25'

Barry Charlton, Lyme RC, soon recovered from his splendid second place in the World Championships to record 1.00.34 to win the York Rally '25' and take the F B Wood Memorial trophy. His ride also earned second place on handicap behind Peter Brocklehurst whose 1.00.01 took the T Henderson Memorial Trophy for 1st Handicap. Geoff Booker was second in 1.08.59 and Peter Hopkins third in 1.13.29. Full details on our 2007 Results page.

Dave Keene retains World Championship - just!

Wet conditions failed to prevent Dave Keene taking his third World Tricycle Championship in succession in 35.07, but his margin of victory was a mere 8 seconds from his tandem partner and 50 mile Championship winner Barry Charlton. Antoine Bavay of France repeated last years third place three minutes behind in 38.07. Geoff Booker was fourth in 40.05. The handicap prize went to Dave Hardy in 30.06 followed by Roger Alma in 34.38. Christine Minto was fastest lady in 52.42 and Bernard Guenand of France fatsest recumbent in 54.25. Full details on our 2007 Results page.

RTTC 12hr Champs - Can you help?

We have received a request from Keith Lawton, Elmet CRC/ RTTC National Championships '12' Secretary for marshals, checkers etc. to help on Sunday 29th July 5.30 am start. The event incorporates the VTTA Yorkshire and North Midlands and the NMCF Championships.

Would any volunteers please contact Ray Charles on 01757 269287 as soon as possible. Thank you.

Bridgwater Trike Criteriums

Information for the Trike Race down here in Bridgwater on Saturday 14th July.

Our race will start about 12 o'clock and will last 20 minutes plus 3 laps.
Entry fee £5.00 (eol £6.00).

Organiser:
Miss Anna Ellington
48 Behind Berry
Somerton
Somerset
TA11 6JS

Tel: 01458 272242

The Fairways International Touring Camping & Caravan Park is just outside Bridgwater and about two miles from M5 Junction 23.
To contact them:
Tel: 01278 685569
Email: holiday@fairwaysinternational.co.uk
Web: www.fairwaysinternational.co.uk

I am aiming to run a trike ride on Sunday morning.

Ian Matthews
Tel: 01278 445446
email: ian.sce@btconnect.com

Roger Alma reports on the Racing in Belgium

I have just time for a brief report on the 7 of Kettelo race in Asse last Sunday, June 3, before shooting off to France.

The 7 of Kettelo time-trial organised by Andre Van Bosbeke on a country circuit near Asse was a great success. The short seven kilometres race on closed roads was designed to attract local people as well as to serve as a showcase for tricycling, with the Belgian riders competing for the Belgian championship. It served both purposes well. Ten tricycles entered, and over eighty riders in total completed the course. Some were top level amateur cyclists, and others fun cyclists, including five local politicians and the local fire-brigade, complete with helmets and boots.

The fastest ride on the day was by Dieter Baumer, who finished in a remarkable 09.14. Wayne Baker took the tricycle event by half a minute from Michael Vanhaelen, in an impressive 11.36, with Jim Ithell third. Wayne's ride gave him 35th place overall. Mark Homan, the Dutch paralympic champion, and the only tricyclist not a TA member, travelled 250 kilometres with his parents to ride in the event. All the tricyclists were presented with a fine trophy.

Results in 2007 Results.

Thames Valley Mid-Summer Meet moved to 1st July

The Thames Valley Mid-Summer Meet has been moved to 1st July to avoid the clash with the Tout de France in London. Click the link for full details.

Barry Charlton wins Bruce Kingsford '50'

Barry Charlton won the Bruce Kingsford Memorial and National Championship '50' at his first attempt, missing the course and event record by 15 seconds to record 2:03:57 despite pouring rain and cold more usual in February. The quality of his ride is shown by him also being second on Vets Standard to John Thompson and third on Handicap. John Thompson put in another strong ride to finish second in 2:22:18. The Handicap award went to Jim Ithell, fifth overall with 2:42:05, net 2:00:50 with Roger Alma second. The full result is on our 2007 Results page. My thanks to Johnny Pardoe for his fine pictures taken in difficult conditions which can be seen in the Bruce Kingsford 2007 gallery. Special thanks to all the martials for braving the weather and Celia Elliott for feeding us all.

Thanks and Items left!

Firstly may I take advantage of my position as webmaster's apprentice to thank all those good people who administered to my needs when I appeared wet, cold, exhausted and blooded at Astley village hall after the Bruce Kingsford 50. I really ought to know better than to ride in such conditions in summer clothing. As Bob Nolan and I agreed on the start line. There's no fool like an old fool.

Martin Badham

Found at Astley Village Hall after the event: One umbrella (floral pattern if I remember rightly) and two waterproof jackets left with the timekeeper - one yellow unlabelled and one orange, made by Eager. I assume that Celia will be holding on to them - phone no.: 01565 722732

Mark Vowells wins South Eastern '10'

Mark Vowells continued his domination of South Eastern Region events with a 27.25 to win their '10' from Richard Bailey with a creditable 28.32. Roy Canning was third in 31.33 and the Handicap award went to John Hastings with 25.03. The full result is on our 2007 Results page.

Hyde Park - Entry Deadline 21st May

The closing date for entries to the Hyde Park Criterium is 21st May. It does seem a great deal in advance of the event but the Tour de France in London organisers have to have secure numbers for several excellent reasons. If members have overlooked the deadline, could they telephone (01633 861266) or e-mail rogeralma21@aol.com Roger Alma to signal their intention to ride?

This is the best opportunity for many years to put tricycling in the public eye. Let us all make the most of it.

Dave Keene wins Mike Dixie '10' - just!

The 21st Mike Dixie Memorial ‘10’s were run on the V714 starting at Gilberdyke west of Hull. 100% started and finished from fields of 11 tandems and 18 solo trikes. There was rising westerly breeze, but the forecast showers did not materialise.

With three ‘55’ minute men in the field on the comparatively slow V714 course it was still a fast event with the scratch men Dave Keene and Barry Charlton returning to the timekeeper in very close order, only 3 seconds apart. Possibly, it was Dave’s out of the saddle sprint for the line that clinched the verdict, recording 23.25. (Barry’s not into excuses, but I can say it for him: he did ride a very hard ‘25’ the previous morning, recording a short ‘1’ on his trike to finish 43rd in an event with 160 bike riders. He did look a bit tousled and tired!!) Steve Brown was third with an excellent short 25, and was pleased with that as his first real competitive race for a number of years.

72-year old Ken Usher took 4th place ahead of Charlotteville’s Jim Pitt; and incredible Les Dawson, nearly 81, came in 7th. Ken Usher took the Handicap Trophy, one second ahead of Steve Bullas . 20 years ago Steve also took the second Handicap in the first Mike Dixie ‘10’ – in a bit of a rut!!

Peter Hopkins and Ken Usher won the team for Icknield R.C. /Compomotive Wheels.

Last minute pairing, Alison Purser and Christine Minto, rode the only tandem trike this year to claim the Tandem Trike Trophies with 28.29.

Ken Usher wins TA Eastern Region '25'

Ken Usher made a storming return to Eastern Region events with a 1:11:51, beating team-mate Peter Hopkins by 1:01. Jim Pitt was third with 1:13:55. The handicap award went to Martin Badham with a handicap time of 1:03:43. Most of the competitors went on to Sunday's more gentle Pace Judging Contest, were the required speed was 12.5mph, before moving on on Monday to either the Mike Dixie '10' or the Ixworth Criterium.

TA (North East) 25's - 23rd June

Due to the death of the organiser (see next item) this event will now be organised for the TA by:

John Coulson,
1 Carrowmore Road,
Garden Farm Estate,
Chester le Street,
Co. Durham,
DH2 3DY.

Tommy Thompson

The sudden death of Tommy Thompson, a Hon. Life Member of the Association and in his 40th year as North East Region Secretary, is reported with great sadness. Tommy suffered a severe heart attack whilst on his way home from a club run on Sunday, 22 April 2007. He died in Durham University Hospital at 11.30 on Thursday evening (26th April) without regaining consciousness.

Tommy was not only an enthusiastic and hard working official for this Association, but also his own cycling club, the Houghton C.C., of which he had been a member for over 50 years. His quiet unassuming manner belied his engineering skills that he was able to use to great effect at the Beamish Museum. His dry, wry sense of humour was always a treat, whether in conversation or in speeches.

Tommy developed the Stand and input of the T.A. at the annual York Rally over many years. He was the Secretary for the ‘F.B. Wood Memorial’ ‘25’ at York; and he also made the Trophy!

Over 150 friends and relatives gathered at Gateshead Saltwell Crematorium on Friday, 4th May 2007, to say ‘goodbye’ to Tommy, and celebrate a very full life that had made such an impact on so many people.

We send our sincere condolences to his wife, Amy, daughter, Julie, and other members of his family.

A full appreciation of Tommy’s life and work for the Association will appear in the Summer Gazette.

Tony Pell wins Thames Valley '25'

Tony Pell of South Bucks Road Club won the Thames Valley '25' with 1:9:22 from Steve Avery (1:10:52) and Clifford Tremaine (1:11:31). He also took first handicap. His ride was overshadowed by Ralph Dadswell and Dave Johnson who started their season with a storming 54:31 on their tandem trike. Is this the start of a serious campaign? Full details are on the 2007 Results page.

Dave Keene wins SW '25' in 59:35

Dave Keene wins SW '25' in 59:35, over five minues faster than last year, but then it was seven weeks later in the season and a beautiful day. John Thompson took second with 1:08:35 and Jim Pitt third in 1:18:59. First handicap went to Brian Griffiths. The full result is on our 2007 Results page. Dr Adrian Hills continued his tour of the country and his efforts paid off as he took the lead in the Tricyclists' Time Trial League, as shown in the latest points table.

Jim Hopper repeats Ed Green Memorial Trophy win

It was business as usual for Jim Hopper who again took the Ed Green Memorial Trophy for fastest tricycle on handicap in the Nelson Wheelers CC Circuit of the Dales '50'. Jim went one better this year as he was also fastest tricycle in 3:01:55 beating last year's fastest Geoff Booker by 11:39. Malcolm Waters was third fastest followed by Jim Ithell, Peter Holland and Adrian Hills. The full tricycle result is on our 2007 Results page. This was the second event of the Tricyclists Time Trial League and the updated League Table shows Geoff Booker in the lead after two second places.

The new season starts here ......

The 2007 got off to a cold start with business as usual for Ralph Dadswell who stormed round the Thames Valley Hardriders 30.4 course in 1:28:24, a time most riders would be happy with for a flat 30! Geoff Booker took his new trike to a well deserved second place 17 minutes behind, followed by Clifford Tremaine a further 11 minutes back the only other rider inside two hours. Pictures of all the riders are in our Activities gallery. You an also follow your points score for the Tricyclists' Time Trial League from the League page of this website.

Next day Mark Vowells confirmed his superiority in the South East, winning their 25 with 1:12:54, seven minutes ahead of Richard Bailey. John Hasting took the handicap award with 1:7:26

A week later and Barry Charlton took his trike for a long trip to East Anglia for a very windy ride on the testing B25/17 course on the Norfolk/Suffolk border. The quality of his 1:04:28 ride can be seen from the fact that he also took the handicap award by 5 minutes and beat all the riders in the following pre-1980 classic bike and medium gear events except Martin Pyne who could only manage 1:03:07. Peter Hopkins repeated last year's second place but 5 minutes slower in 1:22:36 followed by Fergus Muir, the only other rider to beat 1:30 with 1:29:07.Photos of the riders can be seen on Mark Cozens www.mphotography.co.uk website under Diss & District CC '25'.

See the Results page for full details. Perhaps Spring will arrive next week ...

Trykit's first frame spotted

Your webmaster has had his spies out this Spring and can report the sighting of a new species fresh to the UK. Geoff Booker was snapped by "stevethetrikee" riding a new machine sporting the TRYKIT logo. Further details are on the Trykit frame page of the Trike History section. You can also read about the development of Geoff's two wheel drive axles on the Trykit axle page.

Albert and Margaret Saunders celebrate Diamond Wedding

Albert and Margaret Saunders, who have been members of and served faithfully the Tricycle Association in the East for a good many years, are celebrating their Diamond Wedding on the 27th January 2007.

We congratulate them and send our best wishes for the future.

St Marsault Accommodation list available

Please go to the Accommodation page for the latest list of accommodation in and around St Marsault. Book early to avoid dissapointment and be prepared to negotiate prices and length of stay. David Heighway has contacted most of the people on this list and they await your bookings.

Jack Taylor Frames added

Dave Hardy and Martin Purser have been researching Jack Taylor frames for some months and Dave visited Norman Taylor at home. As a result we now have a brief history of Jack Taylor frames, bikes and trikes and the start of a Jack Taylor Gallery. Jack Taylor's made their first trike frame in 1957 and finally finished production in 1997.

Ride of the Year - 2006 - 100 miles in 4:00:01

The Webmaster's Annual Citation for Ride of the Year must go to Dave Keene. Following his 50 Championship and World Championship wins Dave decided to tackle the BDCA 100. The result, a spectacular 4:00:01, breaking Ben Elliott's 1995 Competition Record by 10 minutes 13 seconds, the biggest improvement for 76 years! Don't expect it to stay one second over 4 hours for long. Dave will be trying again in 2007 and facing competiton from his tandem partner Barry Charlton. Roll on the new season.

Holdsworth Conversion Set added

A brief history of the Holdsworth Tricycle Conversion Set has been added to the Trike History section. The information is taken from the adverts and catalogue entries for the set from 1935 to 1975 originally shown on the fascinating Holdsworth site. There is also a Holdsworth Gallery showing all the adverts and catalogue pages in detail plus a copy of the original "Cycling" review by Nimrod from 4 March 1936 (thanks to Ferg Muir). If you have a picture of the pre-war set your webmaster would be most grateful for a copy.

Higgins Register published

The third edition of Chris Hewitt's Register of Higgins Cycles has just been published with details of 118 bicycles and 373 tricycles, a brief history of the marque, photos of a wide range of machines, axle diagrams and the register of current owners and machines from 1933 to 1966. A must read for all owners and trike enthusiasts alike, copies are available for £6.00 plus £1.00 P & P (UK) from Chris Hewitt, I Coleswood Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 1EF. Telephone 01582 763622. We have also added a price list for Higgins & Ken Rogers spares, also obtainable from Chris.

Flying Gate opens!

A new section of Trike History has just gone on line dedicated to Trevor Jarvis of TJ Cycles and his unique "Flying Gate" tricycles. There are sections on the axles, frames and a gallery showing larger versions of the pictures. My thanks to Martin Purser, Chris Hewitt and Trevor Jarvis himself.

Annual Reunion 2006

There is now a photo gallery from our Annual Reunion at Chesford Bridge last month. Another really enjoyable and successful event wonderfully organised by Greta. See all the trophy, medal and certificate winners except one who walked away before i could click the shutter! The photo is of our member and guest speaker Phil Wray and the team of minders who made sure he got to the finish of the Appertiser!

Baker and Keene win at Lincoln

The Lincoln Wheelers Trike and Tandem Weekend was a great success despite extremely stong winds. The 10 on Saturday was won by Wayne Baker, making a rare trip to the East for a fighting 27:35. Peters Hopkins and Holland were second and third after an 8 minute late start ruined Sid Charlton's ride. Peter Hopkins also took the handicap. On the Sunday Dave Keene and Barry Charlton had a terrific battle to follow on from the Stan Spelling with Dave winning by 16 seconds in 1:02:14. Stephen Brown again won on handicap with 59:08. Organiser John Nicholson partnered clubmate Alan Tibble on a tandem trike for both events with a 29:04 for the 10 and 1:17:20 for the 25. An honorable mention goes to Greta Spiers and Gwyneth Holland who made their long awaited debut on a tandem trike with a 39:22 in the 10. They even promise to be back again next year!

Stephen Brown wins Jack Riley Memorial 25

Stephen Brown won the Jack Riley Memorial 25 with a handicap time of 1:07:10. Howard Heyworth was fastest with 1:11:31.

Dave Overton wins final Criterium

Dave Overton of Rugby Velo clearly won the final event of the Criterium Championship held as part of a superb days racing in the ancient heart of Warwick, with Jeff Jones of Leicester RC second and Roger Akers third. Thanks to Richard Robotham of Rhodospin Photography for his photo of Dave. You can see all 26 of his superb photos by visiting his website. I have now added a gallery of photos from Chris and Steve Walker. Put this event in your calendar for next year. It featured racing at every level from unicycle to pro!

Mark Vowells wins South Eastern '25'

Mark Vowells continued his dominance of events in the South East, winning the Region's 25 on 17 September by over 6 minutes with a 1:07:44. The handicap award went to Roy Canning on 1:06:08.

Peter Brocklehurst wins Thorburn Trophy

Peter Brocklehurst won the North Western Region 25 on 17 September to take the Thorburn Trophy with 1:12:42. The ride also won him the handicap award as well.

Jill Cole - update

Writing on Tuesday 26th September Adrian reports that:

"Jill is now fully conscious and will be leaving intensive care very soon for a more conventional ward. It will be a long rehabilitation - 1 to 2 years, but at least we are out of the worst part of the woods."

We wish them both well.

Jenny Noad and Stan Spelling

The Jenny Noad ‘10’, won by Barry Charlton and Stan Spelling ‘25’ won by Dave Keene were overshadowed by an accident to new member Jill Cole, the girlfriend of Adrian Hills. Riding her first event, the Jenny Noad 10, she was hit from behind by a car on the Alcester by-pass and seriously injured. Jill continues to progress in her recovery.

Gauntlet blown away!

Dave Keene's baptism into 12 hour racing proved to be a windy one! His eventual 223.38 miles for ninth place, with less than half the field finishing and only two riders beating 20 mph, was a creditable performance on an extremely difficult day, but bearing in mind Dave's other rides this year it just highlights the quality of Ralph Dadswell's Competition Record of 255.88 miles. Try again next year Dave!

Ralph lays down the gauntlet

Ralph Dadswell produced another storming ride to win the Eastern Region '12' run in conjunction with the RTTC Championship with 243.76 miles setting a difficult target for Dave Keene to chase in his first 12 hour in September. Peter Holland improved by over 5 miles compared with last year to record 203.22 miles.

Dave Hardy wins Cumbria Shield

Dave Hardy took a long trip up to Cumbria to continue his season long improvement and win the Cumbria Shield for the fastest rider on handicap in the North Western Region '10' on 5th August with a net 17:10 (Actual 29:31). Fastest rider was George Jackson with a 28:50 in a close run race with the first four all within a minute of each other.George was also fastest Vet on standard.

Geoff Booker wins Thames Valley '10'

Geoff Booker had revenge over Mark Vowells, who beat him a fortnight ago in the Thames Valley '25', winning in 25:51 to Mark's 26:31. Dave Hardy took the Handicap with 24:27.

Mark Vowells wins Thames Valley '25'

Mark Vowells clearly won the Thames Valley '25' with a 1:5:31. George Mills took the handicap award with 58:53.

Jim Hopper wins Albert Crimes '25'

Jim Hopper won the North Western Region Albert Crimes Memorial '25' on 1st July with a 1:10:34, beating Peter Brocklehurst whose 1:13:18 gave him the John J Davies Memorial Trophy with a handicap time of 1:8:38. Jim was also fastest Vet on standard.

And now the 50 record 1:45:13

Following on from their 25 record, Dave Keene and Barry Charlton just added the 50 record with a 3 second beating of Ralph Dadswell and David Johnson's old record to lower it to 1:45:13 in the North Notts Olympic 50 on 8th July. They also just missed the 10 record with a 20:00 in the South Elmsall 10 (the record is still held by Steve Brown and Steve Wigglesworth at 19:50).
Dave has also promised to attempt his first 12 hour in the Icknield 12 on 3rd September - certainly unknown territory!
Dave and Barry are still planning an attempt at the 30 record and another go at the 50 record later in the year. Dave also did a 56:52 in the Team Sanjan Design 25 on Sunday 23rd July on an F1 course modified because of roadworks and I hear Barry Charlton is trying another solo 25 soon. It all makes for exciting armchair cycling for the rest of us. Well done to all those currently engaged in the battle for records, it gives great publicity to the TA.

Going, going, gone - 50:13

At the Annual Reunion Dave Keene and Barry Charlton promised to get together on a tandem trike. They have been creeping closer and closer to Steves Brown & Wigglesworth's Competition Record of 50:25 for a 25. On 10th June they did 52:01, the second fastest ever and improved this to 50:57 on the K16 on 11th June. They received the incentive they needed when they found that multi-record holders Ralph Dadswell and David Johnson had wheeled their tandem trike out for a head to head battle in the Walsall Roads CC 25 on 2 July. Ralph and David produced what is probably their best ever effort at 52:15 but were caught on the line in front of a cheering crowd as Dave and Barry clocked a record breaking 50:13. My thanks to Martin Purser for the photo of them in action earlier in the year.

Mark Vowells wins Tricycle Trophy

Mark Vowells, San Fairy Ann CC won the South Eastern Region '50' for the Tricycle Trophy on 11th June from Roy Canning, CC Bexley, Richard Bailey, Redhill CC and National President Bill Finch, who took the handicap award. Full details on the 2006 Results page.

Dave Keene 100 miles in 4:00:01

Dave Keene just can't keep out of the headlines. Following his 50 Championship and World Championship you would think he would take a rest but no; last weekend while most tricyclists were attending the York Rally and possibly riding the 25, Dave decided to tackle the BDCA 100. The result, a spectacular 4:00:01, breaking Ben Elliott's 1995 Competition Record by 10 minutes 13 seconds, the biggest improvement for 76 years!

Dave Keene retains World Championship

Dave Keene used his superior speed in the Time Trial, which he won by 58 seconds to retain his World Championship. He proved he can also handle a trike on the demanding criterium circuit, just being edged out in the final sprint by Michael Vanhaelen and Sid Charlton (photo - Martin Purser). Sid Charlton took second place in the time trial, the criterium and overall and Antoine Bavay of France was third overall after a being fourth in both events. New tricyclist Michael Vanhaelen used his local knowledge well, with fifth in the time trial to take fourth place overall ahead of Geoff Booker.

Hilde Verbeken won the Ladies Championship with two fine rides, finishing 20th and fastest lady in the time trial and 11th and first lady in the criterium, finishing on the same lap as the men. Details are on the 2006 Results page.

A big thank you to the town of Asse in general, the Gemeentelijk Wielersportcomité Asse (GWSCA) for organising the event, the Rondom KetteloBos FietsersGenootschap for the social side and TA members André Van Bosbeke and Roger Alma for making the whole weekend such a resounding success.

A Championship Gallery is starting to take shape from your photos. More welcome.

Keene storms to 50 Championship win

Dave Keene stormed through the field to take The Bruce Kingsford Memorial Trophy and the National Championship '50' in a course and event record 2:03:42 depite a difficult wind and some very poor road surfaces. John Thompson was the only other rider inside two and a half hours and took second with 2:18:37. Dave also took the award for first Vet on standard with a plus of 31:50! John Reynolds, who won the Handicap award with 1:57:00 and Ian Matthews, second Handicap with 2:00:22 were the only riders to deny Dave a clean sweep of the awards. The full result is on the 2006 Results page and a gallery of photos from the weekend has also been added with action shots from Johnny Pardoe and Mike Moody.

World Championship Preview

Thirty seven riders are entered for the World Championships on 18th June. Have you planned your trip yet? Dave Keene is on scratch for the Time Trial in the morning. Although the official closing date has passed I am reliably informed that late entries will be accepted at present. You can download an entry form as a Word Document: Entry Form.doc or a PDF: Entry Form.pdf from here. The programmed for the whole weekend from Friday evening Jazz on 16th June, through visits to a local cycle museum and leisure rides on Saturday and on Sunday 18th June 2006 the full Championship Programme and an organised ride to visit local specialist breweries on Monday 19th June has now been released. Follow the links for more information and visit the Championship Site for detailed information including a map of the course, which looks technically demanding.

Sid Charlton Wins Second Criterium

Continuing his run of good form, Sid Charlton quickly worked his way through the pack to win the second event of the Criterium Championship at Ixworth. Thanks to Andrew Pattle we now have a series of photos from the event in our Activities Gallery to compliment the great series of photographs by local photographer Mark Cozens which can be found and ordered from www.mphotography.co.uk (if you have a broadband connection click slideshow for a full screen run through all 67 pictures). The full result is on the 2006 Results page.

Peter Hopkins wins Mike Dixie Memorial 10

Continuing his good form, Peter Hopkins followed his win in the North East 25 and second in the North East 10 with a clear win in the Mike Dixie Memorial 10 on Bank Holiday Monday. The wind continued to trouble riders. The tandem event was won by Christopher Goode and Andy Fisher in 23:19 with Brian Moore and Simon Symonds the only trike in 27:02. Brian then went on to ride the solo event as well, finishing second on actual and handicap. A special mention for Bob Fotheringham and Pete Martin who both rode while recovering from surgery.

Keene and Charlton - 20:50 for their first 10!

Dave Keene, Bristol South CC and Barry Charlton, Stone Wheelers finally got together on a tandem trike to ride the North East 10 (as promised at our Annual Reunion). We all thought it was a promising combination, but tandem trikes are strange beasts. On a twisting single carriageway course, complete with rough surfaces, bends and reverse cambers they stormed to a 20minute 50 second ten mile ride, just 1 minute short of competition record. Sid Charlton continued his run of form to be fastest trike in 26:42. The rest of the times are on the 2006 Results page. Many thanks to race photographer Steve Forman for the image of Dave and Barry at full speed. You can see two or three shots of each of the riders and the presentation afterwards on the www.lincsracephotos.co.uk site. 7x5 prints are £3-£5 plus £1 p&p. Dave and Barry also rode the 25 the next day on a similar course in even harder conditions to win with an impressive 53:43. The solo event was won by Peter Hopkins in 1:13:31. All the riders and supporters would like to thank Peter and Gwyneth, ably supported by Greta, for a wonderful weekend of tricycling, compa