THE NATIONAL CLARION CYCLING CLUB MAGAZINE £2 (FREE TO MEMBERS) SUMMER 2011
NATIONAL CLARION
ROAD RACE CHAMPS SATURDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER
DARLEY MOOR CLOSED CIRCUIT, ASHBOURNE, DERBYSHIRE
UNDER 16
Start 11am: 30 mins plus 1 lap (Handicap start for different age groups) 16 AND OVER SENIORS
Start 12 noon: 75 mins plus 3 laps
(2 groups, under-50 and over-50, handicap start)
HELP WANTED ON THE DAY PLEASE EMAIL
National Clarion championship riders to start in the under-50 group regardless of age.
COST: U16 TLI members £4, U16 non-TLI members £5, Over 16 TLI members £9, non-TLI members £10, EOL £12 Cheques payable to ‘Nick Hall’
Address: 5 Braemar Drive, Bury, Lancs BL9 7PF ENQUIRIES EMAIL: buryclarion@talktalk.net
Under the rules and regulations of The League International
DETAILS OF CYCLO-CROSS CHAMPS TBA ANNOUNCED VIA YOUR SECTION SECRETARY
NATIONAL CLARION
TRACK CHAMPS
MANCHESTER VELODROME
6PM 10PM SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17
ENTRY FEE IS £15 Entries in advance on a BC track entry form with riders stating which events they prefer to ride.
Cheques payable to: ‘Nick Hall’ 5 Braemar Drive, Bury, Lancs BL9 7PF buryclarion@talktalk.net
CLARION 25 TT CHAMPS SATURDAY AUGUST 6
Sawtry, Peterborough (Fenland Clarion) (see the CTT Handbook or www.cyclingtimetrials.org.uk)
PHOTOS BY TOM SCOTT, BARRY DYKE
GET IN TOUCH
President KEN HEMSLEY (Fenland)
Tel: 01159 873118
Vice President KATH LEESE ME ean)
ed DAVE BISSET (Bolton) Tel: 01204 853127
davidbisset55@hotmail.co.uk
National Secretary IAN CLARKE (Fenland) Markham Cottage, Low Street, East Markham, Newark NG22 0QQ Tel: 01777 872097 bike@clarioncc.org
Treasurer iz NEIL GREER (W. Lothian) Tel: 01506 883661
clubruns@westlothian clarion.co.uk
Membership Secretary
DONALD LEVER (Bury) 14 Mosley Ave’,
Ramsbottom, BLO 9UH. Tel: 01204 883584 memberships@clarioncc.org
Racing Secretary ia FRANCIS GRAFTON (Nottingham)
Tel: 0115 981 9817
frank. frank.grafton@tiscali.co.uk co.uk
[gm Standing Orders Orders Secretary BOB HARBER
(Brighton) Tel: 01903 879598 bikerider@phonecoop.coop coop
Development Officer GILES PERKINS. (North Cheshire)
Tel: 01925 576572 secretary @northcheshireclarion.co.uk co.uk
ia Committee Member Member a MATTHEW BALL
(W. Lothian) secretary
Committee Member CHRIS GOODE (Manchester)
Tel: 01723 341050 twenty twowheels@hotmail.com
National Clarion online www.clarioncc.org
WELCOME
Our own social network
oots! We all ride bikes for different reasons to get fit, to go places, to leave our worries behind or to compete. As they say, it’s all about the bike, but actually it’s also about the people. I’ve had a couple of experiences this year that have really brought this home to me.
Five of us from North Cheshire rode to this year’s Easter Meet. Our trip and the Meet were memorable for many reasons, but the welcome from West Lothian was something else. From the advance party who met us on the road to Biggar, to the huge group waiting at the Carnwath Bakery, we were really made a fuss of. The sight of all those Clarion jerseys together is something that will stay with me for a long time.
A few weeks later I was asked to take up the No. 1 rider’s slot in Bolton Clarion’s 10TT in Garstang. I’ve never led an event away before and was very honoured to be the first
_off. Once again I was warmly welcomed by Bolton Clarion at the race HQ and felt hugely privileged as the timekeeper counted down.
Let’s.encourage this type of wider participation! It’s great for your local club and its events, supports other Sections, and helps build a wider community. Spurs!
Giles Perkins, Editor
Cover illustration by:
Garry Marshall
Our latest cover celebrates the youth development in the National Clarion, with Fenland, North Cheshire, Nottingham and West Lothian now Go-Ride clubs.
say, It’s all about the bike’, but actually it’s also about the people
6 WAYSTO
MEET UP WITH THE CLARION
@Ride the Clarion 25TT championships @Have a weekend away with the club at the Autumn Meet
Enter the Clarion
Track Champs at
@Race on closed roads at the Darley
Plan your Buxton
Manchester Velodrome
Easter Meet now and reserve the dates (6th- 9th April 2012) @Ride witha
Moor road race champs neighbouring section
club run or event
Editor Giles Perkins (secretary@northcheshireclarion.co.uk) Sub Editor Kirsty Ball Designer Matthew Ball (secretary@westlothianclarion.co.uk) Printed by Key Print. Contributions to the magazine may be edited or ommited if there are space constraints.
SUMMER 2010 BOOTS&SPURS 3
NEWS
the Comic!
Andrew Baird WEST LOTHIAN
Chris, nephew of cycling legend Tom Simpson, took
ycling Weekly recently little persuading to come ranafour-page feature and meet the West Lothian
on the Easter Meet and the West Lothian Clarion. The author, Chris Sidwells, praised the Clarion’s ‘core values’ for being ‘as pertinent at the beginning of the 21st century as they were at the end of the 19th’.
BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
Clarion as they tried out a section of the Easter Meet sportive course. Club members quickly warmed to his cheer and chat.
In fact, Chris enjoyed Clarion company so much he readily agreed to
UNKBig
return as guest speaker at the Easter Meet.
His suppor movement is strong: ‘The Clarion are wonderful people and you’ve all got a fan for life. I'll keep spreading the message,’ he says.
That message came across loud and clear in the
Two new section's launched
Ian Clarke NATIONAL SECRETARY (FENLAND) ast year, we saw tremendous membership growth in the newer sections of West Lothian and North Cheshire, and a new section forming in Saddleworth. This year’s Easter Meet in Scotland gave West Lothian a platform to promote its events to the wider Clarion as well as local riders. Andrew Baird from West Lothian persuaded Chris Sidwells to visit Scotland and write a report on the club in Cycling Weekly, with asecond story appearing in Cycling Active. Two new sections were launched in the summer, in Blackpool and West Cumbria, the formation of the latter being inspired by the 7 Cycling Active interview. A! The media coverage Ball spoke of Clarion AL, has created a flurry values of fellowship Nowe om wad, of interest in forming and of not leaving other new sections, too. riders behind. Chris A There’s talk of Sidwells’ conclusion will x ear clubs forming in ring with all Clarionistas: a Halewood, Chelmsford, ‘At a time when there’s Loughborough, lots of government y Southampton and rhetoric about “broken Sywell in Northants. society” and “big society” pea So we progress through that’s not a bad template The Clarion enjoy's 2011 with several extra for any group to have.’ its ‘15-minutes’ sections, and are racing towards 900 members.
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS 5
CLUB NEWS
JIM HARRIS
SARAH SMITH (North CAMERON MASON DEBBIE POLLARD (West of Scotland) Cheshire) Club (West Lothian) (West Lothian) Club Man of the Year Woman of the Year Junior of the Year Novice of the Year
Clarion's got talent
nimportant part
of the Clarion is
the recognition it gives to members beyond the arena of competitive cycling. Here are (edited) versions of some of this year’s winning nominations.
Junior: Cameron Mason Cameron was one of the first riders to join the WLC kids’ section. He loves to race and achieved 3rd in the Scottish cycling MTBXC series under 10s. Cameron competed in the Scottish cyclo cross winter series, with several podium finishes. In the Christmas Cracker Cyclo Cross he won by sucha margin in the under 12s event that he moved up to the under 16s event and came fifth! Cameron has a great attitude and is a role model for the younger riders, in his cycling abilities and attitude.
Novice: Debbie Pollard Debbie first came onaclub run ona shopping bike with a basket. Two years and two
6|BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
bikes later, she won WLC’s women’s club hill climb and set the women’s record for the place-to-place event. Debbie is a great advocate for women’s cycling, and is the women’s coordinator on WLC. Debbie has volunteered at numerous club and
open events throughout
2011. After participating
ina time-keeping tutorial, she assisted Jim Harris
with the stopwatches at WLC’s Open Hill Climb.
Club Man: Jim Harris
Jim Harris hung up his racing wheels a few decades ago but for the past 30 years has kept the Clarion spirit alive in Scotland, as Secretary of the West of Scotland Clarion. He is a mainstay of racing events in Scotland, organizing time trials, and time-keeping at many events. He has been instrumental in getting
a Clarion exhibit in the Scottish National Transport Museum, alongside Graham Obree’s ‘Old Faithful’ and
Kirkpatrick Macmillan’s first bike. In 2010, Jim was time keeper at the National Clarion 10TT champs,
and time keeper at West Lothian’s Open Hill Climb.
Club Woman: Sarah Smith Sarah was one of the earliest members to join the new North Cheshire section
and has thrown herself
into every aspect of club
life. She isa regular attendee on club runs and helps and nurtures those new to road riding and the club scene. As Social Secretary, Sarah was the lynchpin in the successful inaugural Annual Dinner, even decorating a special cake. Having now taken up the mantle of Membership Secretary she will be taking a central role in the running and future success of the club. Sarah has raced throughout the year, including the National Clarion 10TT. Sarah won North Cheshire’s most improved award 2010.
PHOTOS BY RAY GRIFFITHS, DAVID MITCHELL.
Book up for Buxton
Stockport Clarion have as well as beautiful
chosen Buxton as the venue rolling lanes.
for the 2012 Easter Meet. A programme is still to be
Buxton is a popular set but organiser Duncan
Spa town in the High McLaren says, ‘ideas
Peak District, with a include a hill climb, rich history a clubrun/sportive, featuring Romans, and trailquest royal prisoners and \S event (orienteering outlaws. ona bike)’.
The countryside surrounding the town has Date for your diary
6th-Sth April. For more details, contact dunchewitt@hotmail.com
some must-ride climbs, like Winnats Pass and the Cat and Fiddle,
NEW NATIONAL TREASURER
Following the news in the member of West Lothian, last Boots Spurs that Peter Neil is an accountant by Roscoe had decided not to profession.
Neil has been in discussion with Peter to ensure a smooth transition and upon taking up his new role Neil
put himself forward for re-election to the post of National Clarion Treasurer we are pleased to announce
that West Lothian's Neil says, ‘I hope that can play an
Greer has now active role in the
taken up the post. National Clarion, just As well as being as Peter did, and
Ride Captain and an contribute to its
active committee continuing success’.
Iam Hall: no normal YHA
Autumn ride out is back
he Clarion’s Autumn Ride-out is back by popular demand. Ilam Hall, the 4-star youth hostel in the heart of Derbyshire and the Peak District has been reserved for the weekend of the 21-22 October.
Itis ideal for cyclists and walkers alike, with local attractions such as the Tissington Trail, Thors Cave, Dovedale’s Stepping Stones and miles of great cycling in the area.
The cost per night is £36.60 inclusive of bed, breakfast and an evening meal (children £28.90). If you book early, you can reserve a family room, or get all your best clubmates into one group room. It worked out really well last year.
Members are encouraged to ride out and make ita proper saddlebags and maps weekend, although this is not compulsory! If you’ve never been toa Youth Hostel before, they are really sociable, relaxing, clean and warm.
Contact bike@clarioncc.org
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS 7
CLUB NEWS
Why not fundraise?
By Kirsty Ball WEST LOTHIAN ick Hall of Bury Section brought a fantastic prize a signed Sky Team shirt to be raffled at 2011’s Easter Meet. It raised a fantastic £450 in aid of Cystic Fibrosis research, a cause close to Nick and his family’s heart. But there are lots of reasons why your club might consider fundraising activities: buying equipment, paying for a race road closure, setting up a kids’ section, refunding volunteer’s expenses, providing financial assistance to members attending events such as the Easter Meet. Read on for ideas.
LAST ISSUE’S PHOTO MYSTERY SOLVED!
Clarion ex-President Brian Nightingale (Clitheroe) says the lady in the photo is Marion Varey (nee Bennett) and it was taken at the end of the Clarion reliability 100-miler in September 1947. Brian Braithwaite is next to her. She would have andis
Harry Fitzpatrick fixed wheel.
3 |BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
year, guest of honor Chris Sidwells judged Andy
FUNDING IDEAS
Sources of funding:
The Big Lottery Fund awards money to community groups and projects that improve health, education and the environment. Find out more at www. biglotteryfund.co.uk. Local authorities also often have dispersal grants to allocate, which can be spent on local events or in ways to benefit the community.
Clarion merchandise can make money for your club
using the National Lottery Bonus Ball to pick the winner.
Gifts
Sell club t-shirts, adding a small fundraising mark-up to the cost. (Printers will often be able to help with design ideas; or you could run a competition among members to come up with
a design).
Personalised mugs are another easy item to create, and make an affordable gift.
Do it yourself
Bike jumble a great way to clear out the garage. Charge everyone a fee per table, then seller keeps any profits. Raffle get everyone to donate one small item each and create a hamper to raffle off at your annual social. Bonus ball competition set up a regular monthly draw
At every Easter Meet the Brian Braithwaite Memorial Trophy is presented for the best photo that year. This
Horner's evocative black and white photo as the best.
Bert Allen (1919-2011)
By Peter Roscoe (Bury) IN CONSULTATION WITH OTHERS WHO KNEW BERT WELL
ert Allen, Clarion
member and doyen of
the cycling fraternity in the Manchester area for many years, recently passed away. He was born 3 March 1919 and his cycling years began before the second world war. None of us alive today knew much of what he was doing in those years. Just a couple of gems that I gleaned were that in August 1939, in the Norwich ABC 100, he won Silver in a time of 4:44:00. The outbreak of war did not halt time trialing activities, and in 1940 he was a member of the team that won the Kent Valley 25 team prize.
Like many members of the
Clarion, Bert’s politics were socialist and his belief meant he had the courage to become a conscientious objector when called up for military service in World War II. This resulted in the usual penalty but the domination of Europe by the Nazi powers and the opening of the Eastern front led to a change of mind and he volunteered for aircrew
WE'RE SORRY
Due to a mix-up with the stationary at the printers, some of the last edition of Boot Spurs were dispatched in
the wrong sized envelopes, resulting in some people being
in the RAF. Vision problems meant that he was not selected but he did finish up in the eastern theatre and was awarded the Burma Star. Bert made friends with some Burmese people and they later came to visit. A keen youth hosteller, he just had to take them to Hartington Hall. I recall, also, him accommodating Errol Hall from the West Indies, whom he encouraged to join our Clarion Club. Bert held many official positions, and sometimes when there was no one to take on a job someone would say in his absence, ‘Bert will probably do this’. For decades he was involved with the Manchester and District Time Trials Association, establishing and running the Christmas 25 and, on one occasion, the 12-hour. In 1953 he promoted a 25 to celebrate the Coronation of the Queen. He was, fora time, Racing Secretary of the National Clarion and ran the annual Kenneth Humphries Memorial 25. As he was an official handicapper I recall asking
charged an excess by the Post Office. We do apologise for the inconvenience
this undoubtedly caused arfd we can assure you it won't happen again.
him to handicap a Bury Clarion open 25. He typed up the start sheet as he did the handicapping in less than two hours, while I waited. lalways thought that he was a socialist first (he worked for the Union of Shop Distributive and Allied Workers) and a cyclist second. I have been reliably informed that it was certainly cycling first. He rode his bike until his late eighties, when his eye problem finally halted this. He treasured his 1974 Johnny Berry bike and asked me if there was anyone he could pass it on to. What better home could it go to than veteran bike enthusiast Merlin Evans of Stockport Section. It will be treasured and Merlin tells me itisa beautiful bike to ride he has already toured Greece on it. The National Clarion Cycling club has depended on people like Bert. It is fitting that we should celebrate his life in a way that he would want by just reflecting on his dedication and what you know of his contribution both to our club and cycling in general.
For Sale: Alfredo Binda toe clips
Club life has changed for one returning cyclist
Graeme Horne WEST LOTHIAN eturning to a cycling club involved in a wide range of activities, after 25-year absence, has been somewhat mind blowing. The fact that bikes still have two wheels is about the only recognisable feature I can relate to. The advances in the hardware of cycling, whether it be new materials, frame geometry or specialised clothing, has taken me by surprise. I thought I knew a thing or two but it transpires that water or diluting juice in your bidon just doesn’t cut it these days. Technological advances aside, the biggest change I see is
TAKE TRIP TO THE CLARION CLUB HOUSE
Roughlee's Clarion House used to be one of hundreds of Clarion Houses in the NW, London and Scotland. Now it is the last, a monument to
10|BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
the way clubs operate and how their members interact with each other. I met an old team mate from the early 80s recently, and after the initial discussions about how Lycra has no advantage over hand knitted woolly shorts, we got discussing the fact that a lot of clubs don’t have a regular weekly ‘Club Night’ these days.
In the 80s, if you had bike trouble, you turned up at the clubrooms and spoke to old Tam who had permanent oil
stains on his race vest
Pasi and problem solved. You
discussed upcoming events and made travel arrangements for
the weekend’s
race. Today, the
internet appears
the Clarion socialist movement, which set out to promote the ideals of a fairer and more moral society. Built using a loan from the Nelson Weavers Association, under the direction of Nelson's Independent Labour Party, this was a place for hardworking mill workers to escape to on their one day off.
9-stone Graeme in the 80s (above) and somewhat older (below)
all manner of assistance
ona variety of forums. Convenient as the internet is, my great fear is that we lose the chance to create future memories that have been earned from interaction with fellow club mates. I know of one guy who spends his winter with his turbo trainer hooked to a computer where he races others,
via the internet, from the comfort of his own living
Today, walkers and cyclists can drop in on their way through the picturesque countryside, for a cheap jug of tea and a chat. There is a play area for children and a nature reserve in the grounds. And views to relish. Just watch you don't catch a glimpse of any Pendle witches!
room. No chance then for him to get lost in the snow or locked out of the hostel in the dead of winter after one too many sweet sherries.
My concerns aside, the Clarion clubs seem to be thriving, and the convenience of the internet seems to allow both adults and children, with ever more demands on their free time, make cycling part of their hectic lifestyles.
P.S. Does anyone know what I can do with a pair of gold Alfredo Binda toe clips, I seem to have no use for them now
MINERALS BRING
The 2009 Easter Meet rode out to Roughlee, Lancashire
YOUR OWN FOODMsS
David Allbutt (1948- 2011)
By Andrew Grace CREW CLARION WHEELERS ave Allbutt died while out on his bike on Thursday 19th May. He was in collision with a car and exact details of what occurred are currently unknown, although at the time of press an inquest is being held.
Dave was born in Chesterton, Newcastle under Lyme, and joined the local CTC when he was 12. He then became a member of the Stone Wheelers and remained with them for many years.
Following his marriage to Sheila, they moved to the Crewe area, and Dave joined Crewe Clarion Wheelers.
Dave raced in time trials, road racing and on the track. He recorded sub-hour rides in 25 TTs as wellas commendable times for 50s, 100s and 12-hour races, usually on the unforgiving Jand D courses of the Manchester and Liverpool districts of the RTTC. He was the pilot of the tandem
MEMBERS
‘OUR
Send in photos wearing your Clarion kit in far flung destinations. Email Giles Perkins at: secretary@ northcheshireclarion.co.uk
lan Robertson from West Lothian and his trusty old Flying Scot on top of the Col d’Aspin in April this year
crew that set the current Crewe Clarion and National Clarion record of 255.66 miles in 12-hour race in 1985. He was also the Crewe Clarion BAR Champion in 2004.
He put a great deal back into the sport, organising races, assisting with timekeeping, and encouraging allto race, and improve their riding generally.
He had recently retired from work as an estates manager for the NHS and was looking forward toa long and well-deserved retirement, both cycling and on his newly acquired motor bikes.
His ready humour and infectious laugh will be sorely missed by the many who knew him and counted him among their friends. There was standing room only at his funeral, which was attended by almost three hundred mourners. He is survived by his wife Sheila and his daughters Martha and Amelia.
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS
Bikes on trains: missed
Are cyclists given a raw deal on our rail network?
By Jim Grozier BRIGHTON AND HOVE
recently had a slightly
scary experience trying
to board a train witha bike at an unstaffed station in the New Forest. South West Trains used (at the time) rolling stock with narrow doors and a policy of using designated bike spaces only. But how do you tell where these are if you’re not familiar with the rolling stock? You’ve perhaps only 20 seconds to find the right place, or you'll miss the train. We ran towards a door that seemed to fit the bill, only to be shouted at by the guard and directed elsewhere.
When we were safely on board, and the panic had died down, I couldn’t help wondering why the train company had not advertised this important information on its departure screen or on posters. Wouldn’t it be in its interests, to avoid delaying its trains? And was this normal practice? My local trains (run by
Southern and First Capital Connect (FCC)) are no better, but I have learned to look for various tell-tale signs: a picture of a bike is a bit ofa giveaway, but even better are the special red doors adjacent to the bike store on most of
12|BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
The ideal of a
cycle-friendly train service is still a long way off
Southern’s trains, which can be spotted 50 metres away. Bizarrely, however, on some of its other rolling stock, a very respectable bike store has no clear sign; regular users learn to spot it by looking for a missing window.
I decided to doa survey of Britain’s 25 train operating companies (TOCs), asking not just about the locations of bikes, but also how many bikes they carry per train, whether you have to reserve, and what restrictions apply. This will provide a useful database for our members. In Brighton and Hove, we
regularly head off by train, to escape the urban sprawl, and do sometimes have problems travelling in a group with bikes. We’ve even been refused entry to the platform. This, then, provided another motivation for the survey to find out ifthe overall cycle-carrying capacity of trains is a problem, and what TOCs are doing about it. Analysing the responses, one thing that struck me was that the maximum numbers of bikes per train were all incredibly low: 2, 3, 4 bikes were being stipulated. Anyone who travels by train at a weekend (at least in these parts) knows these limits are exceeded many times over. If this means the guards are turning a blind eye, that is good news, although they can still invoke the rules at
connection?
any time if they want to.
There is a fundamental problem. Modern rolling stock often has little or no space for bikes. It’s clear to me that the railway staff see bikes as a problem, and from the responses to my survey it is also clear that the TOCs’ solution is to get the bikes off the trains. Many of them went into great detail about plans for improved bike storage at stations, which doesn’t help if you are going on a bike ride!
Actually, on many trains, the problem isn’t as acute as it is on South-West Trains. Many TOCs use carriages with wide double doors, so it is easy to get your bike in, and sticking to designated spaces should be unnecessary, provided you don’t block the doors and are willing to move your bike asked.
First Capital Connect, at least, seems to have embraced this idea. It told me, ‘There are designated cycle storage areas available on some of our trains, and we encourage customers to make use of these areas. However, we also permit cyclists to use other available space on our trains, providing there are no more than two cycles per carriage [and] that the cycles do not cause an obstruction.’
To see this ‘shared space’ philosophy at its best you need to travel on the London Overground, (one of 8 TOCs
that did not respond to my survey). Its Richmond to Stratford trains have seats along the sides, like a Tube train, plenty of space in the middle, and large openings at the ends of the carriages. like the bendy buses, so that you can get on anywhere and wheel your bike to a suitable location. That sort of design in just one coach of each
set would be a great help.
t seems British trains
can be divided into three
groups: high-speed long-distance trains where reservations are compulsory; ones like London Overground and FCC where, up toa point, ‘anything goes’; and those where bikes must be put in the designated spaces. Sadly, none of the TOCs seems to want to give cycling passengers advance
Maximum
numbers of bikes per train are incredibly low
notice of where to get on. (A couple of TOCs did claim to have put this information on posters, but visits to some of their stations proved these claims to be false). Not all the responses were so disappointing though; Southeastern, which runs trains between London, Kent and East Sussex
did say, ‘I will notify the relevant managers about the possibilities of improving communications to cyclists’, and though not strictly relevant I also liked the sound of National Express East Anglia’s Cycle Rescue Service, whereby they will rescue any cyclist holding
a valid train ticket who is unable to complete his/
her journey because of a damaged or stolen bike
or a personal injury.
The ideal of a cycle-friendly train service is still a long way off though, and there is little evidence that train operators have really engaged with the needs of passengers with bikes. Do lobby your local TOC for a better deal. Can you help?
All the information from my survey will soon be on the Clarion website at www.clarioncc.org. If you are able to provide additional information about rail travel with a bike, please send the details to j..grozier@btinternet.com or via the Brighton Hove section.
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS
6TH EASTER MEET: STIRLING
The Scottish Easter Meet:
The Stirling Easter Meet, organised by West Lothian, was a great success, with 115 members participating in the evening activities and over 100 in the day time activities. Neil Greer and his family attended their first Meet and explain how they got on
o it was that land
my entourage
arrived this April
in Stirling for the Clarion Easter Meet. Although we had been involved in the planning of this event, it didn’t wholly prepare us for the wonderful experience to come. From the moment we arrived
14|BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
on Friday, there wasa positive air of expectation and knowing nods from ‘strangers’ who wore the look of ‘I’ve been here before’ ina very comforting way...
The Clarion movement clearly has some strong traditions and the signing in/ collect your ribbons process was one of several we were
to savour this weekend. And now, properly identified, those aforementioned ‘strangers’ were our shipmates for the days ahead. Thave always found there is something unique about the bonds formed in the cycling community; whatever the reason, it was obvious that old friendships
a ‘Stirling effort
were being re-acquainted. and new ones being formed. Anearly morning dash across Stirling for the Hill Climb preceded another tradition of the Meet the AGM; for some, this fits into the ‘boring, but essential’ category, but as newcomers, it wasa pleasure to put faces to names arid absorb the variety of regional accents. The Social Ride departed that afternoon after a rain delay; but this only gave the
14 folk from the disparate sections the opportunity to start exchanging stories etc. earlier. And later, across cake and coffee, the chat was equally eager.
And soit was that the momentum, kicked offso wellon the Friday evening with whisky tasting and live music, continued throughout the weekend. Sportivistes set off for their event like old pals, as did the dozen or so who rode out to the Falkirk
Wheel for the 30-miler.
The culmination of the weekend was, of course, the Awards Dinner, punctuated by the amusing tradition of cross-toasting; clearly there were some scores to be settled!
But the highlights for my family were twofold: meeting up and riding with the North Cheshire group on Friday, then seeing all the kids getting on so well together real Fellowship in action!
SUMMER2011 BOOTS&SPURS 15
SOCIAL RIDE
SUNDAY SOCIAL RIDE
PHOTOS NEIL GREER, MATTHEW BALL, EWAN NORTON, ANDY HORNER,
116TH EASTER MEET: STIRLING
AN OUTSIDER'S VIEW OFA HILLCLIMB
Volunteer Eilidh Beattie asks, ‘Who is crazier, the volunteers or the riders?’
hy, why, why
did I agree to
do this? Well,
it was because when my dad asked me if I would help him, he didn’t mention getting up before six o’clock in the morning to stand in the rain signing ina bunch of crazy cyclists who, instead having a long lie-in had come to Stirling to cycle up a massive hill! As more and more of these lycra clad lunatics arrived I couldn’t help thinking, these people should be locked up, this isn’t normal!
Once things got started it was pretty exciting though, hearing the cowbells, whistles and cheering, and Icouldn’t help but have a grudging respect for those who cycled up the hill. Seeing them come down, puffing and panting but with huge grins (well most of them) brought a smile to my face.
From the six-year-olds to the sixty-year olds, to the
Aclosed road
atthe Wallace [FF Monument. Inset: the author
wee boy who cycled up on his single speed bike, well, I still think you area bunch of crazy cyclists but, wow, you were absolutely amazing. Results
Go online http://tinyurl. com/6g2jb9r
Abig thankyou
To the Wallace Monument and to organiser Tom Beattie.
THE EASTER SPORTIVE: OF HOLES AND HILLS
Co-organiser Michelle Gregory can relax after planning a superb sportive
7 riders, including 42 clarionistas, were blessed with blue skies as they started the Gateway to the Highlands Sportive on Easter Sunday. Riders warmed up on the flattish ride out to the Trossachs National Park before attempting the beautiful and challenging Dukes Pass. After a fast descent, riders were
replenished at the feed station in Aberfolye. Challenging conditions abounded from here due to the undulations, climbs and poor condition of the roads but the views over the Fintry Hills and Carron Valley made up for it. Ninetyfour riders arrived back in times ranging from 3 hours 14 min to just over 6 hours, where they were rewarded with a typical West Lothian Clarion post-ride spread. Ade Hughes of North Cheshire
blogged, ‘The most scenic
Sportive I’ve ever done so
chapeau to West Lothian for the route and organisation. Simply excellent.’
Thanks go to Science in Sport for its energy products and to North Cheshire Clarion for the Soreen. Results Go online for rider's times: http://tinyurl.com/686dlv5
Organising team
Thanks to all the volunteers, but especially the co-ordinaters Grant Craven, Michelle Gregory and Neil Fraser.
WINTER 2010/11 BOOTS&SPURS
116TH EASTER MEET: STIRLING
Top racing at the kids” grass track
KIDS GRASS TRACK RACES
he Highland Games Park in Bridge of Allan was a superb venue for our Grass track races on Easter Saturday, even if the poor weather had a detrimental effect on the size of the field.
Commentator Jammy Johnson kept us moving along with his lively patter and announced the start of the racing with a flying lap for each rider, so the handicapping for later racing could be worked out.
The racing was heavy going on the sodden grass, especially for the younger riders but spirits were kept high, with Jammy urging the riders on and plenty of home bakes in the hut.
The programme of races included the block handicap, team pursuit, scratch race, hare and hounds, devil and catch the pigeon. By the end of the day the sun even managed to warm the riders and spectators.
Even with a massive handicap, Kyle Petrie was
3 |BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
unstoppable in many of the races, winning four. The Stirling Bike Club rider was a great sport he carried on riding despite the lack of competition, supporting the younger riders in the process. Calum Fernie from Edinburgh RC was also on great form, winning three of his races and second in two. It was great to see the West Lothian riders taking part, many in their first open race. In the Hare and Hounds,
West Lothian riders Sam
Chisholm and Andrew Turner were the hares and given halfa lap advantage on the chasing pack. They almost held off the riders, but were caught just before the line and finished 5th and 6th respectively.
Many thanks to everyone who came along to race, cheer and volunteer. We’d also
like to thank Rock and Road
Cycles who donated prizes for all the winners.
Full results online http://tinyurl.com/6znrsg4
NORTH CHESHIRE'S JAUNT TO THE EASTER MEET
DAY 1: WARRINGTON
TO KENDAL
Five North Cheshire Clarion members (Giles, Ade, Sarah, Dave and I) start our longplanned ride to Stirling for the Easter Meet.
Final checks on the bikes and pre grande-depart photos and weare off, accompanied by Clarion member John, who is riding the first hour with us. We’re soon in the countryside, sun out and good company, there’s no better place to be. John wishes usa farewell and the next thing we know we’ve done 42 miles, arriving in Garstang, stopping off for a bite to eat. Back in the saddle and Lancaster gives way to road rage in Carnforth before rolling round Silverdale and Arnside for the second stop of the day. Refuelled, it’s the day’s last leg through Levens and the back roads to Kendal to be met by my wife (Jackie) whois traveling ahead with our clothing. The Youth Hostel, we discover, hasn’t really changed since the 1970s. Drinks, food and good
PHOTOS GORDON SCOTT, NEIL GREER, SARAH SMITH
chat prepare us for a night of bunk beds and poor sleep.
DAY 2: KENDAL TO MOFFAT Bikes liberated from the shed and photos done, Kirkstone Pass is on our minds. We set offin beautiful sunshine, leaving the Kendal metropolis behind. We soon arrive at
the Pass; making my way
up, Ade, Giles and Dave are further up the hill battling it out. The next time I see them is when I get to the Kirkstone Inn at the summit. Sarah arrives a couple of minutes later. While taking a breather, lask Ade to take a photo of me in the doorway of the Inn. As he snaps away, a coach full of Japanese tourists pulls up. The onlookers point, laugh and take photos of me, the rest of the gang finding my
Martin: centre in photo
Ade Hughes chats toa new West
Lothian friend
The youth
hostel, we discover, hasn't changed since 1970
new found fame hilarious. It’s then down to Ullswater, the bright sunshine delivering magnificent views; we arrive in the famous hamlet of Greystoke. Giles shouts ‘by the power of Grayskull’, the sun obviously getting to him, mixing up Tarzan (Greystoke being his ancestral home) with He-man! We stop at the Coast 2'Coast café and refuel before setting off towards Carlisle, the less said about which the better. After battling trucks and traffic, the next stop is Longtown, where we have a quick lunch before the slog to the border at Gretna. The heat and the miles are starting to tellas we
pass through Lockerbie and take the quiet roads to Moffat. Jackie is waiting with kit and a beaming smile which tells us the accommodation (The Balmoral Hotel) is good.
DAY 3: MOFFAT TO STIRLING It’s straight into the 10-mile climb up the Devil's Beeftub. With a headwind spoiling the descent of the Tweed valley we’re met soon after Broughton by the advance party from West Lothian Clarion, their yellow and white immediately recognisable. Greetings and introductions away, we ride as one to Carnwath where we're met with applause and congratulations from an impressive turn out from West Lothian and Jackie, who’s timed it to perfection. It means a lot to us to be greeted like this. As one large group we make our way past Carluke to Blackburn, California and Bathgate and even spot Susan Boyle en route. Next stop, the impressive Falkirk Wheel. We meet up with Jackie and some Bolton Clarion guys. With West Lothian President Tobias at the helm, it’s one final push to Stirling, justin time for The Easter Meet! This was a fantastic three days with glorious weather, good company and the Clarion spirit shining through. Thank you to West Lothian for the guidance into Stirling, and many thanks to my wife and Directeur Sportive, Jackie. MARTIN HICKMAN
WINTER 2010/11 BOOTS&SPURS 19
116TH EASTER MEET: STIRLING
WHAT YOU SAID
Peter Roscoe: ‘Thanks for a splendid Easter Meet to all at West Lothian.’
Francis Grafton: ‘Margaret and thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and furthermore we were able to extend the number of days to make a full week of it.’
Ade hughes: ‘Thanks for organising a great weekend.’
Bob Harber: ‘Wonderful Meet in Stirling, meeting young Monty and other new faces.’
David Bisset: ‘From the moment we arrived we felt we had come home, and it was good to see old friends and new. If only a weekend lasted longer, it seems to have been over so soon.’
Neil Greer: ‘The best part of the Weekend? The imagination the kids showed in their questions to Chris Sidwells!’
Giles Perkins: ‘It was ace and we had a grand time was genuinely sad to be going home’
lan Clarke: ‘A superb Easter Meet and genuinely one of the best can remember:
Nick Hall: ‘Many thanks for organising such a great easter meeting really enjoyed it all. Secondly, thanks for allowing us to raffle the signed Team Sky jersey; we raised £450.50 for Cystic Fibrosis in memory of Charlotte Adams.’
Chris Goode: 'A very enjoyable weekend and good to see the youngsters racing and enjoying their cycling.’
Alison McQuillen: ‘The highlight of the weekend was the dinner on Sunday evening.’
BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
Trophy winners
Guest of honour, Chris Sidwells, handed out the historic Clarion trophies to the 2010 competions winners
Julie Dominguez: Points Champ (Women)
Matthew Ball: 10TT (3rd)
John Royal: 25TT fastest Vet on Std
Clarke Horner: Kenneth Humphries trophy
Lindsay Clarke: LOTT Champion (Women)
lan Clarke: Points Competition (3rd)
North Cheshire: British Workers Sports trophy for highest milage cycled to Meet (1307 miles)
Chris Goode Andy Fisher: new tandem 25TT record (54:33)
Nick Hall: SOTT Champ, 5-Mile Track Championship 2010 (3rd), Points Competition (2nd)
Steve McCaw: Pursuit 10TT Champ, Fastest
West Lothian Clarion: Neil Duckworth Trophy for Section with most members at Meet (51)
Andy Horner: Points Champion (Men) and first veteran, Clarion Track Champion (Omnium), Brian Braithwaite Photo competition winner
Peter Roscoe: services to the National Clarion
West Lothian: Most Meritorious Section
THANKS TO ANDY HORNER FOR SUPPLYING PHOTOS
SECTIONE WS
Bolton's A and B groups ready to set off on their Southport and Churchtown run in April
Bolton We decided monthly Club Nights during the winter, to attract people who wanted to cycle but did not belong toaclub. These had a feature topic, eg. cycle maintenance, followed by tea and coffee then a quiz, and were well received. They will
resume in September. Our Christmas
Lunch, at Duxbury
8 Park Golf Club, was
g
2 and is becoming a
é seasonal feature.
8 The Presentation
6 Evening, with
2 guest speaker Peter
Graham, was another
successful evening. Thanks to Tony
WEBSITE:
RD JONES (1936
D oO n 5
Clarion has had more than usual media
5 exposure: three
features in the Bolton
News, plus a live interview on Bolton FM. Tony has become amedia star!
We have a new website, thanks to new member David Hardman, who (with his son) has designed anew club top, too.
This year, we have six new members, and tempted three former members back. We must be doing things right!
On Sundays, we continue with our A and B rides and have started a Wednesday ride, attracting a regular group.
Blackpool
The brand new Blackpool Clarion section headed out
for our first club road ride on Sunday 1st May. We had eleven riders turn
the glorious sunshine to brave some fierce headwinds for the inaugural ride, after some publicity on local websites and word of mouth.
The group travelled down the Fylde coast through St Annes and Lytham before turning inland to make their way to Elswick and a well earned ice cream at Bonds Cafe.
Blackpoolisa fledgling section with five members but we’re hoping to grow over the next few months. We have plenty more rides in the pipeline
Blackpool's inaugural club run
both on and offroad, and some members wanting to race under the Blackpool Clarion name, so watch this space!
Brighton Hove We continue our tradition of gentle weekend rides with plenty of food stops, and typically set out by train first. Our traditional last ride of the year was the flat 14-mile Berwick Circular with a lunch stop at the Yew Tree. Pizza Express was the venue for our Christmas gathering, and we were pleased with the good turn out for the New Year's Day Ride from the Palace Pier to Southwick.
We found fame at last when we appeared
in the pages of The New Encyclopedia of
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS 2
SECTION NEWS
Brighton, the Clarion taking upa whole three lines of the cycling page!
A proposal was made at our AGM fora series of bike fixing sessions to
be set up, and plans are in the pipeline. Acontingent from Brighton and
Hove joined the TUC's March for
the Alternative
on March 26, and
in April,a group headed to the New Forest for a weekend of cycling, eating
and socialising.
The Easter Meet in Stirling was attended by Ian and Sue Bullock, and Colette Harber, both couples making a bit ofa holiday out of the long trip north.
Bury
We have been actively thinking and planning how to develop our local section/club.
Brighton Hove enjoy a potter about in the woods
In June, we have our annual ‘Come and Try It’ hill climb, which will be promoted asa Fairtrade event. It is hoped that this event will bring in new members and increase the awareness of our club. Another event in our development club run for Manchester Sky ride participants.
Frank Jefferson and Peter Roscoe were checkers at the annual Charlie Westlake and Walter Pilkingon memorial sportive rides held in March. Bury Clarion participants were Nick Hall and Nick Heap.
Andy Horner has been the mainstay of our racing activities for many years and now Nick Hall has stepped up his performances to give Andy the
BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
benefit of some real competition at club level. Nick and Andy were ina party of eight Bury members who travelled to Stirling for the Easter Meet. At the Sunday dinner and awards evening Nick collected his trophy and medal for winning the 2010 Clarion 50 championship
and Andy the omnium and points
competition trophies and medals. Andy’s
elation at receiving the points trophy was inspirational. Lindsey Williams
te Calder's 2011 Tour of Flanders trip
and Bob Duckworth made a substantial contribution to the Easter Sportive
by spending many hours catering
and marshalling respectively.
Our weekly reports in Bury Times reveal that Nick Hall, John Yates and Bob Duckworth are doing well in the Friday night meetings at Manchester Velodrome. They also publicise the ongoing successes of second
claim members
Adam and Simon Yates who continue to compete at the elite level. Adam was competed in the prestigious Good Friday meet held this year at Manchester velodrome. Against top-flight riders in two of the events he finished 3rd and 4th.
Calder
Calder, like many other sections, is
PHOTOS: BRIGHTON HOVE, CALDER, FENLAND WEBSITES
seeing evidence of an upturn, with new and potential members coming out onruns, an increase in membership enquiries and new members joining via the website. There are also new ideas emerging to take the club forward.
A quarterly magazine CalderSpeak has
been launched as an alternative source of info to that carried on the website.
The website has had a facelift; aswell as layout changes,
a News Blog has been created, and an online membership application form is now available. A Twitter feed has been included to follow what Calder and other Clarion sections are getting up to. Tim Moss and Tom McGhie have used ‘tweets’ to nominate recipients of the annual Golden Spanner award and Tom Butler has tweeted Victoria Pendleton with an invitation to join one of our Sunday Runs.
Monthly committee meetings are being reintroduced to manage increased. activity, to discuss new ideas and to look
at how we can learn from the success of other sections.
Our Dinner and Award Presentation was held at the Holiday Inn, Ossett 19th February, ably organised by Jean Burton. Principal winners were Paul Lee Sturgess Trophywinner Tom Butler, Martin Price, who took the plaudits for the time trial championships, Matthew Dodsworth (Hill Climb), Jim Blankley (Club Person of the year), Steve Burton (Club Runs Award) and Andrew Spittlehouse, who most events.
Weare looking cycling activities for youngsters asafe controlled environment via British Cycling’s Go Ride scheme, and we
And they're off: Fenland's Bluebell 10 TT
already have members committing to help make this happen.
Fenland Over the winter, we came up witha new website witha modern look, which also allows club members to update their own areas, which should mean it's always kept up-to-date. Thanks go to Ivan Endicott for developing this and also to Phil Ackerman for maintaining the previous one so well. Our membership is going well, with 120 members so far, meaning we should be up on last year. One of the main reasons for this is the increasing popularity of the Sunday club runs. Ian Todd has arranged interesting routes with a wide range of teashops. Weare now offering ashorter option on
weeks when the club run is on the long side, giving newcomers a chance join us more easily. Last year, we started our Go Ride section with two coaches and a handful local youngsters full of enthusiasm. Already several of them have enjoyed the thrill of their first races and should be proud of their efforts. Hopefully, we will soon be able to meet up with other Clarion sections for events. If there are junior coaches in other sections who would like to share ideas, please contact Male via e-mail malc@ fenlandclarion.co.uk.
Gwynedd
Sally's Big family Cycle Ride at Dolgoch, Mid Wales, was attended by 15 cyclists and one in support, driving the Sag Wagon, which thankfully wasn’t needed. The route taken was along Llyn Brianne via road, forest and bridleways to Llanwrtyd. The second night was at Stone Croft, another superb hostel which adjoins the real ale pub. Sunday included jumping in the river
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS 23
SECTION NEWS
and brewing up at the foot of the Devils Staircase before the climb back to Dolgoch where some departed and some stayed. A brilliant time was had by all. Unfortunately, Sally's husband Robin, who should have been the warden at Dolgoch hostel, stayed home due toa heart operation, but with the latest technology carbon fibre valve, Robin is looking forward toa lengthy period of testing! Sally’s ride was sucha success that Mazis giving up the car in favour of cycling to work. Spanish John Austin, who’s 82 years young in June, is still charging up mountains!
Italian Recent road rides have taken us through the rolling Monferrato hills
and the flat plains
of the river Po, to
the Milan-Sanremo (locally, there are lots of options) and also to Isola d’Elba and Garfagnana Alpi Apuana mountain biking as wellas the single track rides through the woods. Spring is beautiful with the blossom,
wild flowers and vines.
Recently, we rode into Turin to see the first stage of the Giro. What an atmosphere; apart from the Giro being in town, the Alpini (the Italian elite mountain warfare soldiers were also here. Each year they choose a different place to come and party. This year was the 150th anniversary of Italy’s unification, when Turin was the first capital city of Italy. It was like being back in Britain, with somany men staggering along the streets; there was no trouble though.
At the Giro, we waited at the exit just after the finish. We missed Adam Blyth but congratulated Russ Downing on his ride. It was difficult to pick out the riders wearing their aero helmets shades, but Menchoy, Sastre, AC, Millar, Pettachi were easily recognisable. The Giro is a big tour attracting big names, but the atmosphere is relaxed youcan really get up close.
On the way home we rode to where the team cars were waiting and spoke to Valerio Piva, htc team manager. Then Cav
24|BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
appeared strolling down the road with his girlfriend anda big bunch of flowers. Nobody around him, no pressure. He was elated.
See our blog at com for pictures and further info and our offer for Clarionettes still stands. Call meon my English number 0161 408 1965 or email info@ italianclarion.com if you fancy coming over. Also, ifanyone has any ideas for an Italian Clarion jersey design, let us know.
Manchester Stretford Our thoughts are with the family of Bert Allen who passed away in early March. (See Peter Roscoe’s tribute in this issue). He will be missed. Greystone Small has been our most active competitor this year with good performances in medium gear events and some sub-24 minute 10s. He organised the National Clarion 10 Champs near Bridlington, on 25th June, ona quiet sporting course with sunny but windy condtions.
Andy Fisher and Chris Goode were second in the Mike Dixie Memorial 1o, in May, recording 19:51. Terry Lynch is improving as the season progresses and we are looking forward to some personal milestones for Stuart Walsh and Andy inthe Autumn.
Martin Perfect (London Clarion) and Chris Goode rode to the Easter Meet in Stirling, enjoying fabulous weather. Martin excelled, riding from Tunbridge Wells and covering 600 miles.
One of our members, Sarah Peaker, is expecting twins in May so our best wishes to her and famil
North Cheshire
2011 has seen our membership exceed the 100 mark with riders of varying skills, interests and experience. Following receipt of our grant from the National Clarion we raised extra funds via our Annual Dinner raffle and a local business to put three coaches through British Cycling’s Level 2 training. We are looking forward to the launch of our
Go Ride kids’ club in early July.
Our first Annual Dinner wasa huge success with over 70 attending the sit down meal to hear ex-GB track rider Denise Hampson’s talk about her days on the boards. Visitor Ian Clarke talked about the wider Clarion, providing the audience with valuable insight into our bigger family. Our first trophy (for the Best All Rounder) was awarded to Anthony Mycock, with further awards and club standards presented. With acake specially made for the event, decorated by Sarah Smith, and proceedings ably steered by MC Gary
é Barrett, the evening
oO
Our Saturday club runs continue to bring new riders to
PHOTO: MIKE AN’
Saddleworth line up at the the Tour Series
the club, the format devised to get riders who have previously ridden alone used toriding ina group and developing the skills necessary to do this confidently. Sunday rides now include ‘social’ and ‘training’ rides and are well attended. We were also pleased to welcome Saddleworth Clarion members toa recent Sunday ride.
Our mountain bikers now havea full programme of rides with mid-week and weekend trail and cross-country runs at venues in the North West, Wales and Midlands.
We have also overhauled our Club Standards for 2011. This integrated set of age-related standards allow for intra-club competition in every cycling discipline with Bronze,
Silver and Gold. awards for personal performance. So far it’s Audax and Time Trials that are the main focus with many of our newest members giving ita go from the off.
Five members rode from Warrington to the Easter Meet in Stirling, which earned them the Mileage Trophy for 2011, which wasa great accompaniment to Sarah Smith’s Club Woman of the Year silverware.
Finally, a special mention must go to Mark Rowe, who fell badly on black ice, breaking his hip and elbow. He is recovering well and is back on his bike.
Saddleworth Just 12 months inand Saddleworth Clarion has become the local club in the area, with 30 members, Sunday road rides, Wednesday mountain bike rides and loads of enthusiasm. Twitter feeds, website, club kit all the boxes of a proper cycling club have been ticked in quick succession. The near future sees The Marmot, audaxes, mountain time trials, hill
climbs, The Haute Route Alpine in the Halfords Tour Series (well, the Oldham warm up event at least).
The most important achievement has been the friendships that have been formed, and we’re still looking forward to meeting other Clarion sections out on the road.
Stockport Stockport Clarion continues to grow, withacurrent membership of 49, a high in recent years. We continue to take part in all types of events, with many members now racing. Duncan McLaren has gained a few BC points in some road races and Darren Reynolds continues to go fast in time trials, as does Derek Hodgins, winning a few Vets races. Ken Hodgins has also hit form and is riding very fast this season, even beating SuperVet, Derek. Weare helping to organise and runa series of circuit races at the new Tameside circuit on Tuesday nights. Wednesday nights we have our
SUMMER 2011|BOOTS&SPURS 25
SE NEWS
all-year-round MTB evening rides from the Arden Arms, Stockport at 7.15pm, which are very well attended throughout the year. also hold our club10TT series ona Monday night on the popular Chelford course, south of Knutsford, 7.30pm start.
Jon Hardman has published a photo book called Fellowship is Life, inspired by his brother Simon's participation in road races and time trials. Thecollection of photographs is about obsession, passion, friendship and taking part. See www.blurb. com/bookstore/ detail/1774863.
Some of us are off to watch the Tour De France in the Pyrenees for Darren Reynold’s stag do.
Globe trotting Mark McPhillips is doing another MTB trip. Last year, his wife Maggie rode the ‘Ride the Divide’, an off-road trip from Canada to Mexico; this time he’s off from Lhasa (Tibet) to
Kathmandu (Nepal),
riding huge passes
and camping at Mt
Everest Base Camp. Dan Moores
(20 years old) is
setting off on the
trip ofa lifetime
this May by riding
from Stockport to
Australia via France,
Turkey, Iran, India
and Thailand.
Sunderland Sunday runs continue to be the main focus of section activity throughout the year on rides generally in the order of 60 to 80 miles, with the occasional open Audax or similar event catering for those with appetites for the longer distances.
There are of course one or two other smaller groups of members who make arrangements among themselves and who feel more comfortable in just such a group for one reason or another. Similarly, other members may want to set off quite early in order to get back sooner to fulfil family commitments. By general agreement on the official run it is accepted that
Stockport's Mark and Maggie Philips
MMER 2011
fitter and faster riders cannot be expected to hold back for slower ones and therefore riders gravitate naturally to that section of the group which is suitable to their pace. This of course can happen even on the first stiffclimb when one group might bid adieu to the other! There has been discussion at a recent club meeting as to whether or not we ought to continue in this manner for there are those who feel the best way to cater for the different abilities of riders would be to have two distinct groups, one of which would bea hard riders section. The two groups might not necessarily meet at the same place nor have the same destination. Those in favour of this alternative could also rightly point out that it would also remove the constraint imposed on fitter and faster riders ofa pre-planned official Sunday run of perhaps 50 to 60 miles when they have the inclination and ability to go further. It is to be hoped that the debate on this will be resolved at
the next monthly meeting.
Thursday evening training rides have restarted for members who wish to improve their levels of fitness with a view to participating in competitive events and for those who just want to improve their fitness.
Our membership continues to grow and grow and this can perhaps be attributed in part to an excellent website, coinciding with an undoubted resurgence of cycling generally.
West Cumbria Firstly, West Cumbria Clarion would like to say a big hello to all the other sections!
We decided to start a local Clarion section as there were around 12 of us cycling regularly on Sundays, and after reading the article in Cycling Active we came to the conclusion it would bea great idea if we could do similar.
The section is based in Whitehaven, Cumbria and we (Brian Field, club secretary, Wayne Roberts, ride organiser, and Stephen Fleming,
coordinator) hope that it will filla club void in our local area.
We only have five members so far, including the three of us, but have been putting the club website together, which will hopefully bring more people to join. Our aims are to build strong member base over the next year and maybe start local time trial in 2012, aswell as arranging a Sportive at the end of that year.
Ifthings take off this quickly, we will be holding beginner rides during the summer evenings in the hope of bringing in riders and letting them see just what fantastic sport this really is.
Weare hoping that we may even bump into our nearest neighbours, Blackpool Clarion, at some local events.
CLARION
West Lothian The Kids Club kicked offagain in March after a winter break. We now train in the grounds of Oracle, a local business, which has large on and off road areas. Around ten of the kids have been competing in open criterium, MTB, cycle cross and grass track races. Neil Wilson and Craig Gilmour have joined our coaching staff.
In the adult section, the season began with our 100km Reliability Trial (organised by Graham Foster and Rob Hemesley); 50 riders took part, witha fantastic food stop at Neil and Julie Greer’s house. The club confined TT series (coordinated by Tom Beattie and Grant Craven) is proving popular, with increased
competitors anda
new women’s record, courtesy of new member Mandy Maccoll.
A one-offracing social attracted 30 members, who were interested in getting into competitive cycling, followed the next week by coaching for adult members, with more sessions planned.
The club’s Audaxers have been entering longer events, with Tobias Bauer and Neil Fraser preparing for the Paris-Brest- Paris. The weather hasn’t been on their side so the rides have become test of their resilience 300km block headwing anyone?
In June, Tobias organised our open 10TT, which attracted 70 entries, including the Scottish Champion
Arthur Doyle. There has been an increase in members racing in TTs and road races with the club being represented in the Scottish Women’s road race champs and 25 and 5OTT champs. Steve McCaw and Julie Dominguez rode
the British Masters Track Champs, with Julie winning two bronze medals.
Next up is the club 25TT champs followed by our Three Glens Explorer Audax (September) and closed road Hill Climb (October).
Get well wishes to Crawford Geddess who broke his collar bone in the Etape du Dales Sportive.
WHAT'S NEW?
Send your news, photos and section round-ups to the Boots Spurs editor Giles Perkins. We want to include something from EVERY section in the next edition. Your deadline
is 16th October 2011. The Next edition of BES will be out in December 2011.
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS 27
BIG RIDES
ASunday in Hell
Saddleworth give the pros arun for their money
By Tim Mitchell SADDLEWORTH omewhere in northern Europe on the second Sunday in April, team mechanics wheel out bikes they’ve been working on for weeks: tyre pressure is slightly less than normal, the tread is wider. Thoughts about cantilever brakes and raked forks are too late now. Mouths are dry and the big TV screen is tested for the last time. The day ahead will see a new legend born.
Paris Roubaix, the L’Enfer du Nord, the Queen of the Classics or La Pascale. Just before he departs from Compiégne, Boonen asks, ‘Have Saddleworth Clarion set off yet? Who was first onto Harrop Edge? Will] get to Roubaix in time to catch the finish on Eurosport?’ April 11th, 2011, Uppermill, Saddleworth. No ordinary club run: L’Enfer Du Saddleworth a celebration of hell. Our shortest ever club run was planned, taking in as many cobbled sections (the pavé) as we could find, with gravel sections (the gravé) also making the going tough.
Two groups set off. The first the cobble dodgers
28 |BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
Tom Boonen
asks, “Have Saddleworth Clarion set off yet?
(asifa hernia operation is an excuse) avoiding the worst of the route, the second positively seeking it. All begins well, with riders working hard up the first cobble setts then dropping down to Dobcross before climbing again to the sector that had been on Boonen’s mind only two hours before. Lark Hill/Harrop Edge, 1.2 miles of gravé sees gaps open, legs burn and the back markers having a chat the day’s theme for two unnamed domestiques.
Over the watershed and
into Marsden Lane, where the gradient rises to 20%. The cobble dodgers miss a photo session but join fora mile or so before racing back across the Pennines to reach the next photo opportunity. On the main peleton's minds, the Muur du Steel Lane. If Marsden was hard surely the next cobbled climb would be impossible? 20%, 1.1 miles in length and no tarmacat the edges. All the riders make it over before the next traverse over the watershed and the descent into Saddleworth. Knarr Lane next, the great photo opportunity; the cobble dodgers are chatting again, expecting a descent notan ascent. Surely Graham Watson never made such an error? More tarmac, and
The little lumpy Audax
after a little posing (those trusty domestiques again) three more sectors of gravel. Eventually the riders make it to Mossley, the three counties town, and jubilantly return to Saddleworth Clarion’s HQ. Steak sandwiches, cold
beer, chips and mayo, glorious sunshine and the benefits of Sky+ allows all to join the festivities ofa Flemish lunch, including Saddleworth Clarion’s 1st birthday cake, on the big screen (all 32 inches).
u Despite our best efforts,
3 the pundits refuse to pass
judgement on West Riding’s
main event, fearful perhaps
that next year the pro teams
8 will choose to join the ride
from Uppermill, something
5 we hope other Clarionistas
2 will do too.
Matt France SUNDERLAND
he Killhope
Grimpeur
has become a
traditional part of Sunderland Clarion’s annual calendar and it’s the only Audax that many of us do. It’s a short ride for an Audax, clocking in at 102km, but as the name suggests it’s a little lumpy there’s a total of i300m of climbing, including the notorious Killhope Cross and Crawleyside Bank.
This year’s ride sawa particularly strong turn out by Sunderland Clarion, despite some of us starting late. Phil got to the HQ only to realise he’d left his shoes at home, but credit to him and the organisers, he did start, albeit alone some 50 minutes later. In all, we had 11 riders out, for what proved to be aparticularly interesting day’s riding. The three of us who
started 15 minutes late went all guns blazing to the first checkpoint even in an Audax some of us don't like being the last man on the road. An unwelcome guest turned up at the first
We set off all guns blazing! Even Audaxes have a competitive edge
checkpoint in the form ofan April downpour, just what you need when you’re about to start the long ascents. The first climb to Rookhope and the second climb to Allenheads were a warmup for the hills to come,
long and hard but nothing overly leg sapping.
John suffered a blowout at Allenheads, resulting ina patched up tyre and low pressure; not ideal with the fast descents coming up. First though, there was the cruel trick of The Grimpeur, sending us down to Nenthead fora control, and back out and up over Killhope Cross.
Luckily after Killhope Cross came the long descent into the Wear Valley, with nerve wracking but exhilarating speeds.
After a brief blast along the valley, we came to the final climb of the day. Crawleyside Bank, which hosted the 1984 National Climb Championship, isa real brute, with some 20% sections an appropriate last serious climb.
Witha downhill and flat route back to Lanchester, the perk for a day's solid riding: a good Audax spread. Just remember to try both locks on the door, rather than sitting on the floor thinking you've beaten the organisers back!
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS 29
Spanish ride raises thousands
By Tim Mitchell SADDLEWORTH
addleworth Clarion's David Gartside arrived back home in Saddleworth in mid April after an epic 814-mile ride from the south of Spain. David, 65, was inspired to take on his intrepid challenge as the final part of his own recovery from health problems. He and his wife Margaret have been supporters of the Saddleworth branch of Cancer Research UK since it started in 1980, during which time Margaret has herself had cancer and madea full recovery. David’s challenge has raised over £2500in sponsorship for the charity, with the figure still rising. Leaving his daughter's home in Formentera on April 3, David travelled north through Spain to the port of Bilbao. After the long ferry journey to Portsmouth, he
David and Margaret Gartside
cycled the remaining 250 miles before arriving back in Greenfield, where, in sunny weather, he was given a warm reception by family, friends and supporters. Remarkably, the two-week journey went without any major problems,
a puncture!
The third day of the ride, between Utiel and Teruel, proved to be one of the most memorable. David’s route reached an altitude of well
over 3400 feet, took him along
RIDE THE NORTH CHESHIRE AUDAX
North Cheshire Clarion will be staging its first open event on September 25, a115km Audax called ‘The Wizard and the Llamas’.
Crossing rural Cheshire's lanes and pretty villages, the route takes riders to The Wizard Tea Room Control at Alderley Edge, prior to stiff climbs past the Llamaload
30 |BOOTS&SPURS SUMMER 2011
Reservoir and Macclesfield Forest, before the second Control at Gawsworth Hall. Organiser Andrew Williams says, 'We've worked hard to include all the things we expect to see when we ride in other people's events.’ Entry is £6, which
a 4okm straight road and saw a top speed of 45mph descent, although he admitted he could have gone even faster if he’d had the bottle on the gravel strewn road.
David had help along the way from his son-in-law, who lives in Spain with David’s daughter Jane. Mark accompanied David for the first day’s cycling, and after that kept supporters updated with daily e-mail bulletins. David was then joined for the final leg, from Buxton to Greenfield, by members of the Saddleworth Clarion Cycling Club. Well ahead of schedule they all had time for a tea break in Glossop and a pint at the Dysarts Arms in Mossley before reaching the finish! More Details Donations can still be made, cheques payable to Saddleworth Cancer Research. Send to Gill Spurr, 6 Whitebrook Lane, Uppermill OL3 GER.
includes refreshments. North Cheshire hopes to attract Clarionistas from across the North West, providing a great excuse to ride together at the end of the season. HowtoEnter
Go to www.north cheshireclarion.co.uk
RESULTS 4
50 mile TT champs
By Ian Clarke NATIONAL SECRETARY (FENLAND) ottingham Clarion’s promotion was based on the 25-mile circuit used in last year’s competition, effectively the same triangular course, but almost two and a half laps. We riders had been watching the weather, as it had been windy all week, and this Sunday morning at the end of May was no execption. Asit turned out, the wind direction was probably perfect and there was a fast back-wind for the first six or so miles before the turn onto the A52. Here we met aside cross wind, but were helped by the strong traffic
flow, which neutralised this abit. At the end of this leg of the course, a long drag up to Bingham was the hardest part, but this eased the course turned back towards the start to complete the triangle. A rolling, twisty country road back to Harby led us back on to the fast backwind part. Another oneanda half laps as we did our best to hold our average speeds, take on enough drink and energy to complete the 50 miles.
Nottingham Clarion had aclean sweep of the top four places, with the organiser Simon Dale producing a storming thr 55m ride, which would bea superb ride on even a dragstrip course.
Use your benefits!
Did you know that as a Clarion member you get access to a fantastic range of benefits?
15% DISCOUNT AT COTSWOLD OUTDOOR stores across the UK that's huge money off outdoor clothing and camping equipment. Just quote *N2102' at the store till and show your National Clarion membership card. See www.cotswoldoutdoor. com for your nearest store. 10% DISCOUNT ON ‘IN MOTION’ PRODUCTS big discounts on cycling
clothing, accessories, tyres, tubes and sundries. Just select ‘Clarion Cycling Club’ in the drop down options for ‘How did you hear about us’ at payment, and add your membership number in the “Other information’ box. Buy online at www. inmotionproducts.com. ANNUAL 3RD PARTY INSURANCE (via the CTC, up to £10m) for just £12 protects your personal wealth if you have a claim against you while on the bike. See your Club Secretary for details.
Stuart Gregory, the 2010
Clarion Hill Climb Champion, took and with thr 57m and the Clarion’s BAR winner of 2010 Philip Hurst was third, with a swift time of 2hr1m. 50 TT RESULTS
1 Simon Dale (Nottingham) 1:55:22 2 Stewart Gregory (Nottingham) 1:57:07 3 Philip Hurst (Nottingham) 2:01:01
4 Stuart Pryce (Nottingham) 2:01:21 5 Male Jacklin
(Fenland) 2:05:34 6 lan Clarke (Fenland) 2:06:59 7 Steve Clarke (Fenland) 2:12:51
STOP PRESS 10 TT RESULT Stewart Gregory (Nottingham) wins 10 TT champs in 23:29, full report next issue.
Many Clarion sections
have discounts with local bike shops; great when you need to buy kit or upgrade your bike. See your local Section for details.
For the £6 National Clarion membership fee you get a lot of potential discount for little investment.
Make the most of your membership!
IN MOTION
SUMMER 2011 BOOTS&SPURS
Join a section near you!
With 27 sections dotted around Britain, there should be a Clarion club close by. If not, why
not join directly through the Central section; you
can still take part in all activities and even meet
up with the other clubs. You could even consider
forming your own section, it's easier than you think and there is a wealth of help and advice available from other members.
@BARNOLDSWICK John Idle 01282 844959 johnidle2003@ btinternet.com @BOLTON
Peter Moore 0161790 9771 m739735@aol.com BLACKPOOL Carley Brierley 07972 228502 blackpoolclarion@ hotmail.co.uk
BRIGHTON HOVE lan Bullock
01273 682133 i.bullock@ntlword.com BURY
Peter Roscoe
0161 761 6856 peterroscoe80@ btinternet.com @CALDER
Andrew Spittlehouse 01226 709436 wakefieldblade@ webtribe.net @CAMBRIDGE
lan McNally
01223 264078 Q@CENTRAL
Ann Burchell
01404 891507 Martin Catlow
01200 425852 martinhilcat@aol.com @CREWE
Andrew Grace
01270 841836 andrew.grace@ dicksonssolicitors.co.uk DORSET
Bill Edgington
07840 403200 dorsetclarion@live.co.uk @FENLAND
Paul Frost
01778 347410 fenland.clarion@ hotmail.co.uk @GWYNEDD
Robin Hartley
01248 605424 green_buoy@yahoo.co.uk @HEANOR
John Gott
01773 769781 john@gott98.freeserve. co.uk
@HEREFORD
Alvin Smith
01568 770327 alvin.smith@btinternet. com
@ITALIAN
Julian Mortel info@italianclarion.com @LONDON
Martin Perfect
01892 523927
mjperfect@gmail.com MANCHESTER
STRETFORD
Chris Goode
01723 341050 twentytwowheels@ hotmail.com
NORTH CHESHIRE Giles Perkins
01925 576572 secretary@north cheshireclarion.co.uk NOTTINGHAM Paul Harwood
0115 911 8183 p.harwood@ntlworld.com SADDLEWORTH Tim Mitchell
01457 837532 stonedrose89@ hotmail.com @STOCKPORT
GET IN TOUCH
Email National Secretary
lan Clarke at bike@
clarionce. org
Duncan McLaren
0161 487 4828 dunchewitt@hotmail.com SUNDERLAND Allan Smith
0191 584 8948 allan.smith@live.co.uk TEESSIDE
Colin Armstrong
01947 880488
WEST CUMBRIA Brian Field
Tel: 0775 174 1361 gixxerboss@sky.com
WEST LOTHIAN Matthew Balt
07989 597175 secretary@ westlothianclarion.co.uk WEST SCOTLAND John Harris 01236 730157 jimharris35@yahoo.co.uk