In the 36 years it’s been running, the Wigmore CC Hill Climb at Hollingbourne has probably never seen weather like Sunday’s. It was perfect for spectating; unfortunately in a moment of madness I’d entered it! In the queue to start, Deb and Louise were thinking the same, with similar sentiments expressed by some of those around us already sweating in near-30 degree heat.
My day had started badly with a late departure from home and a wrong turn leaving me something of a rush to get to the event HQ. At least my legs were nicely warmed up. Rob K said five minutes would be respectable for a first-timer, which as it happens was pretty much what I was aiming for after a recent dry run on the hill. Jacob’s target was four minutes. Stan and Ernie were among those at the roadside, ready to urge on the masochists.
Deb was about eighth to start, I was two behind her. Following Rob’s advice to keep the gears low, I span up the first slope. My intention was to ride on the threshold but soon I’d forgotten all about my heart rate and everything was a blur. The spectators yelled encouragement on the steeper sections and I didn’t even notice the usual roadside landmarks. Out of the saddle, I pushed as hard as I dared and suddenly there were shouts of “sprint” and the road began to level off. Then it was all over: across the line in a state of collapse. I hadn’t seen either of the women ahead of me, but nor had I been overtaken. I considered that a minor triumph.
I retrieved my camera and walked down the hill to capture the suffering of the other Velos after me. Jacob fairly flew up the top section, Adam looked in good form and Louise also seemed strong. There was no mistaking the serious contenders though: they barely broke rhythm even on the toughest section and were ripping up the final 100 yards. Last off was 2009 winner and hill climb legend Pete Tadros, who’d entered two events the previous day as well as this one. I can only describe his speed as completely ridiculous.
Back at the HQ, the sun was blazing hot and the results were in. Jacob, possibly encouraged by his name chalked on the road Tour-style, beat his target and would have been fastest juvenile had he not recently turned 16. Adam reckoned he also could have gone under four minutes but for illness during the week. Louise and Deb seemed pleased with their times and I certainly was. Pete Tadros was indeed the winner, just seconds outside the course record.
Medway Velo times and positions (out of 55):
Jacob Kennison 3:57.4 13th 4th junior
Adam Mumford 4:06.4 20th 6th junior
Andrew Collyer 4:35.8 34th 8th out of 8 in the seniors
Louise Mason 5:00.0 40th 6th lady
Deborah Hope 5:03.7 43rd 7th lady
Lastly, thanks to Stan and Rob for their advice and to Ernie for company on a pleasant ride back.