SUNDAY, September 6, was the start of the local Hillclimb season for Minehead Cycling Club members.

Somerset Road Club hosted on Cockercombe Hill, 1.1 miles at 6% gradient. Geoff Ware made short work of the climb in the sunshine with a sparkling time of 6 minutes 27 seconds to take 13th overall. Robert Myram made it look easy, winning the Junior class in 5.50 and 10th overall. Janet Hewlett was first female, a storming ride completed in 8.10. Stephen Crossman was just in front at 8.08.

Sunday, September 13, is the next round on Crowcombe Combe, always a serious challenge just to make it to the top. Geoff Ware said: “I have been training hard for this season, trying to fit it around work and family is never easy but with the Porlock Double header on the 20th and then the National Championships I have a big whip of motivation”.

*The countdown is on to one of the UK’s most prestigious cycling events, with entries open for the BTTC National Hill Climb Championship, hosted by MInehead Cycling Cub, on the iconic Porlock Toll Road.

Taking place on Sunday, October 25, the National Championship will see Britain’s best hill climbers descent on West Somerset to compete for national titles on one of the country’s most celebrated hill climb courses.

The 4.1 mile ascent of Porlock Toll Road, climbing almost 357 metres through Exmoor National Park, is renowned for its spectacular scenery, consistent gradients and challenging finish.

Hosting the National Championship is a landmark moment for Minehead Cycling Club and reflects the club’s long standing contribution to competitive cycling.

With entries open for some time, the club is encouraging riders from across the UK to secure their place and experience one of the highlights of the domestic cycling calendar.