News Archive Latest News Updated 3 October, 2021
General news and views covering what members are up to.

The Mini-Fest proves to be a real hit!

Charles Fletcher (Cairngorm CC) has finally landed the 8km British title that had eluded him on the grass for so long!

The Scotsman made an audacious and an unusual move in a race of this length, by attacking with well over half the race to go, in front of an enthusiastic and supportive crowd at the Mildenhall Cycling Mini-Fest on Sunday. After that there was only ever a race for second place which John McClelland (Aerolab Ward WheelZ) made sure of ahead of David Mitchinson (Cinamon Cafe Contour)

George Thompson (Nopinz Motip Race Team) was not there to defend the crown he won at Heckington, Lincolnshire in 2019 – the last time it was competed for because of Covid. That is a race though that Fletcher remembers well as he was in the four-man sprint going into the last corner, when the rider in front lost control bringing them all down and he had to settle for the bronze medal.

The 28-year-old said after his thrilling win “I thought I was a shoe-in when they last held the 8km when we all got taken out and were put through the fence when someone didn’t have the right tyres on for the conditions. So, I thought for today, I’d just go for it. I waited for them to go hard and then just went over the top of them and hoped that no one would chase. It worked out perfectly!”

The Scotsman who began racing on his local grass-track at the age of 14 added “I already have 16 Scottish titles to my name over the whole set of distances (800m, 1km, 1600m, 3200m, 4800m, 6400m and 8km) and now won the British 800m title three times, after winning it again at Heckington a month ago. But that’s the only other race I’ve actually done this season. So, coming in to today was bit of an unknown. I did all the training but without racing, you’re not quite sure how it’s going to go.”

With covid-19 having caused the cancellation of all of the Highland Games this year, there hasn’t been one single grass-track race in Scotland. Ironically though that meant for the first time ever he could travel to Mildenhall, a meeting he had heard a lot about, as the grass-track racing that his club organises at their local Highland Games wasn’t taking place.

In a nice touch, the newly crowned champion resplendent in his National jersey, later rode around the track with those under 16 who didn’t get a ride, as there weren’t enough to take part in the Go-Ride racing.

He nearly produced a double win, but had to settle for second in the National Short Distance League counting event over 600m, behind Tom White (Colchester Rovers).

In the morning the Fenland Flyer Gravel Time-Trial, which goes from strength to strength, attracted a full-field. Mark Powell from the Stowmarket based Fast Test Racing Team made the most of the near perfect conditions to fly around the 18km course in just 32minutes 41seconds. He was nearly two minutes quicker than Maciej Malyszka from Kings Lynn’s Velouse Flyers.

Local riders Rory Harris (Ely & District CC) and Andrew Hammond (Newmarket Cycling & Triathlon Club) both stopped the clock in 35minutes 10seconds for equal third fastest.

The next 15 riders, who completed the mixed course of byways, tarmac and Fenland Droves with sandy, gravel or uneven concrete sections in under forty minutes, were separated by just five minutes.

Representing the host club Mildenhall CC, were Mike Felton (41m 57s), Darren Baker (47m 45s) and Rachel Collier (52m 12s)

There was a buzz around the site with plenty of people riding to the event to enjoy the racing and a drink and the home-made cake made by members and friends of organising Club, Mildenhall CC.

Mark Burchett, Chairman of the Club, said “The covid-19 restrictions forced us to leave it late before making a decision about whether to hold the event and it’s format. But we were rewarded with many familiar faces returning and very pleased with the turnout for a condensed one-day event.”

He added “Adding to the buzz and joining those around the grass-track selling from their car-boots were KL Cycles from Kings Lynn on hand to offer mechanical advice and servicing"

The Cycling Mini-Fest was held in and around the Village Hall in West Row, although could not have taken place with out all the volunteers who all helped make it happen.

The complete results with pictures are available on www.mildenhallfestival.bike

30th August 2021

Come & Try It Rides to start again

Now that the covid-19 restrictions have been sufficiently relaxed, Mildenhall Cycling Club are to start their Come and Try It Rides again.

The rides are aimed at anyone of any age and regardless of ability who wants to ride their bike. They are also suitable for anyone wanting to get more active, lose weight, have Asthma, Diabetes or Heart disease.

The ride will be aimed at those that turn up on the day with the pace very much at that of the slowest, so that no one is left behind. The first one is this Saturday (3rd July) and then monthly on the first Saturday of the month leaving Mildenhall Cycling Club in Wamil Way at 10am.

For more details open the Information Leaflet

If anyone would like more detals or have any questions, please email the Club.

29th June 2021 (Updated 29th September 2021)

Club Statement concerning Club Events

This has been sent to ALL Club members.

In light of the advice given to the Club by the sport’s governing bodies concerning the outbreak of the Coronavirus (Covid-19), the Club’s committee have decided to suspend all Club events until the end of April.

This includes

  • Rough Ride planned for 19th April 2020
  • Club Rides
  • Come & Try It rides for the foreseable future

The committee will continue to monitor the situation and as soon as we are able to once again provide group events, we will let you know.

Key Points

  • British Cycling have suspended all their sanctioned activities, including racing, recreational rides and education courses until at least 30 April 2020.
  • Cycling Time Trials have suspended all their events until 31st May 2020.
  • Cycling UK (Was CTC) is advising all groups (where more than one person cycles together) to postpone rides and events for the time being.

In the meantime, there is still nothing to stop you going out on your own and continue to enjoy the benefits of cycling which we’re familiar with. Cycling UK have produced this very useful Q & A

If you wish to contact other members and organise a ride of your own, this will be your responsibility. If I can facilitate in this at all, please do contact me for another members’ contact details, if you do not have them in the Members Handbook.

The 2020 version is now available and it had been my intention to distribute at Club events etc, to minimise the Club’s postage costs. But will now email it out as a PDF, however, if you would still prefer a hard copy please do let me know

Mark Burchett
Chairman
On behalf of the committee

18th March 2020

Refurbished Clubroom Official Re-Opened

Mildenhall Cycling Club can look forward to another forty years plus in their purpose-built clubroom, after completing a £30,000 refurbishment programme.

The refurbished clubroom was officially unveiled by the Club’s President Dave Sennitt at an informal ceremony on Friday evening attended by current & ex-Club members, Vice-Presidents and some of the contractors that were involved in the refurbishment. Mr Sennitt, who lives in West Row, has been a member of the club since the late 1950’s.

The work was carried out after Mildenhall Cycling Club had received a grant of £31,831 of National Lottery funding through Sport England. The Club’s chairman Mark Burchett explained “Apart from the wooden shell and roof, there is not much left of the original building, although incredibly very little of the timber frame needed attention which is testament to how well the members built it! This allowed us to substantially improve the insulation of the building and re-clad with an environmentally friendly and fire-retardant product that compliments the cladding of the adjacent Mildenhall Cricket Club.

On the inside it has been lined with plasterboard, making the once all-wooden facility even more fire retardant which allowed us to paint the inside giving it a very bright and modern feel. “

Other improvements inside included re-wiring the whole building to modern standards, installing low-energy lighting & heating operated by sensors and on timers, proper extraction facilities in the exercise area, as well as upgrading the toilet facilities to full accessibility standards.

He added “I feel we have certainly put this National Lottery funding to good use and is the cornerstone of our strategy to have an outstanding club for the 2012 Olympics’ legacy. Those London Olympics were also the Club’s Golden Member and former Olympic & World Champion Victoria Pendleton’s swansong and her connection with the Mildenhall club is now recognised with a plaque on the building.

Left: Mildenhall Cycling Club's clubroom in 2013

 

 

Right: The clubroom after
the refurbishment in 2019

By having a bright vibrant and modern building we hope to attract more members from the local community, as well making our facilities available to local groups. The improvements will enable the clubroom to be used all year round with dramatically reduced running costs.”

The clubroom was originally opened in September 1977 by the then President of the Club Bill Butcher, having been built by the members at the time. Mr Burchett said “One of those, Dave Bowers, was instrumental in much of the refurbishment work and although his previous club mates Keith Carrington and Mike Gee are sadly no longer with us, it was lovely to see them represented at the re-opening by their widows Barbara and Jackie respectively.”

26th July 2019
By having a bright vibrant and modern building we hope to attract more members from the local community, as well making our facilities available to local groups. The improvements will enable the clubroom to be used all year round with dramatically reduced running costs.”

The clubroom was originally opened in September 1977 by the then President of the Club Bill Butcher, having been built by the members at the time. Mr Burchett said “One of those, Dave Bowers, was instrumental in much of the refurbishment work and although his previous club mates Keith Carrington and Mike Gee are sadly no longer with us, it was lovely to see them represented at the re-opening by their widows Barbara and Jackie respectively.”

26th July 2019

Membership Signing-On night

With the Club's own Clubroom being refurbished, Signing-On Night will take place in the Cricket Pavilion next door in Wamil Way.

This is either for existing members to renew their membership and collect their new Membership Cards, or for anyone interested in joining Mildenhall Cycling Club.

There will be tea/coffee and biscuits available and the opportunity to find out about the refurbishment of the clubroom. While for prospective members they can find out more about the Club and the kind of cycling they offer.

It will be held between 8-9.30pm in Mildenhall Cricket Club Pavilion.

5th November 2018

Golden Member Jousting!

Victoria PendletonAfter riding on Holkham beach with the Household Cavalry, our very own Golden Member Victoria Pendleton CBE has now been jousting with English Heritage at Kenilworth Castle!

She said on twitter "Go and experience the thrill of jousting for yourselves. I had a great time having a go!" Find out where here

16th August 2017

Member rides to the York Rally

Bert WoodheadRather than drive to York to visit the York Rally, Mildenhall Cycling Club member Bert Woodhead (picture right) decided to cycle to the event and camp on his three-day journey.

Read his account of the eventful journey he encountered - click here

17th July 2017

Members compete in London to Cambridge ride

Mildenhall Cycling Club members Angela Watts and Jon Petty completed this year's London to Camridge ride in aid of Cam Sight. It does not sound much of an achievement until you take into account Mr Petty's loss of sight!

The 58-year-old who lives in Bury St Edmunds, pictured right at a tea stop on the ride, only has the use of his peripheral vision and takes the 'stoker' position on the back of the tandem with Miss Watts the pilot.

Afterwards Miss Watts said "I'd like thank everyone so much for all the kind donations to Cam Sight, you have so far helped them hit 97% of their £3000 fundraising target which is fantastic. I’m about to tip that over the line by adding additional offline sponsorship"

Her's and Mr Petty's day began with a 4am alarm on Sunday; departing Cambridge at 6am in coaches with bikes loaded on lorries and eventually setting off from the start in London at 8.30am as one of eight tandems among thousands of other riders!

She explained "Despite a few hiccups with Jon’s cycle shoes & cleats and me very nearly losing my voice (yep, bad timing!!), we had a trouble-free 62 mile undulating ride in perfect weather."

It was almost too perfect with the temperature peaking at 33 degrees centrigrade, but their ride time of 4 hrs 52 mins, which did not include refreshment stops, saw them average just under 13 mph. This included a maximum of 32 mph downhill.

But she added, "It was a beautiful quiet route, with friendly people and was very well organised...and we crossed the finish line in Cambridge to find a beer tent, music, massage & ice cream! It is an amazing event to be recommended as a very inclusive and enjoyable challenge, well worth doing! Thanks again for all the support & encouragement, especially to our welcoming party."

Mildenhall Cycling Club offer a wide variety of people the opportunity who can’t enjoy sport and particularly cycling to try tandem cycling. They can be keen cyclists looking for a new challenge, those with a visual impairment or their friends and family willing to support someone interested in trying tandem riding with a sighted partner or volunteer.”

It provides such a great opportunity to access the many benefits of cycling. I hope other’s will be inspired to give it a try too. Anyone keen to participate in tandem riding, or volunteer support in any way, please do get in touch with the club via their website www.mildenhallcc.org.uk

Cam Sight are based in Cambridge and provide support to local people with sight loss. For more information check out www.camsight.org.uk

4th July 2017

Saddle to Saddle for Tour of Britain

A jockey and a cyclist have swapped saddles to celebrate the start of stage six of Britain’s premier road cycling race in Newmarket, the international home of horseracing, on Friday 8 September.

Cllr Andy Drummond, Forest Heath Cabinet member for Leisure and Culture and Mayor of Newmarket gave his bike to jockey James Dunne and took the reins of Royal Marskell, from Gay Kelleway’s stables, as details of the stage six event were revealed.

Members of Mildenhall Cycling Club had ridden out to Newmarket, to lend their support to the photo-call.

There will be one SKODA King of the Mountain climb during stage six, which will be in Snape.

The SKODA King of the Mountains Jersey is awarded to the best climber in the OVO Energy Tour of Britain as riders battle for points at every stage. Ranked in one of three categories according to their difficulty, the first riders across the summit win points with the rider who has accumulated the most points wearing the SKODA King of the Mountains jersey.

There will also be three intermediate Eisberg Sprints during stage six at Ixworth, Stradbrooke and Kesgrave.

Highly popular with fans, riders battle it out to be first across the sprint line to claim points, and also bonus seconds to be taken off their overall race time. If the overall lead for the OVO Energy Tour of Britain is tight, expect the battle for the time bonuses to be intense.

Cllr Drummond, a keen cyclist who then went on to complete the Newmarket Hilly fundraiser said, “Newmarket appreciates top flight performance and is preparing a very warm welcome for the best cyclists in the world. West Suffolk has a very strong cycling culture and there will be lots going on for all cycling styles and levels, as well as the excitement of the peleton, passing through our towns and villages on the day.”

Race Director of the OVO Energy Tour of Britain, Mick Bennett said “We are looking forward to bringing the OVO Energy Tour of Britain to Newmarket for the first time and are sure of a great Suffolk reception for the stage. Having a full stage for the first time is a great opportunity for people across Suffolk to get behind the event, and we hope that the announcement of the Eisberg Sprint and SKODA King of the Mountains locations will be extra encouragement for these communities to turn out and support the Tour on Stage Six.”

Owner of Royal Marskell, Chantal Wootten spoke about the Tour coming to Newmarket in September “As a local business owner, I’m thrilled about the Tour of Britain starting in Newmarket, as it will be a great way to showcase the town with all it’s wonderful diverse cultures and history, and it will also encourage people to cycle more”.

For more information about the OVO Energy Tour of Britain visit www.tourofbritain.co.uk and for more information about Newmarket visit www.discovernewmarket.co.uk.

25th June 2017

Annual Lunch & Prize Presentation

The Mantle family were rewarded for their prowess riding off-road at Mildenhall Cycling Club’s Annual Lunch and Prize Presentations on Sunday.

2016 Prize WinnersDad Matthew improved on his previous year’s second place, to be the clear winner of the Senior Off-Road Championship. He won with 79 points from a maximum of 80 available, 25 points ahead of his nearest rival Garth Collier.

His wife, Diane, in the Ladies section went one better than Matthew, to secure the maximum 80 points from her best eight rides out of the twelve rounds in the competition. Judith Robb was just 6 points behind her swapping places with Jean Poole, as it was the same women who had contended the top three places in 2015.

Their fourteen year-old son Colin repeated his convincing win in the Under 18’s Off-Road Championship, with 79 points. His closest rival on 74 points was another member of the Robb family, 15-year-old Alexander, with his younger brother Francis in third place.

The Mantle family who live near Feltwell, Norfolk have been members of the Mildenhall Club since 2009

The Club’s top accolade though went to Jean Poole, who for the first time won the Senior Super Championship. This is a season long competition with points gained from taking part in a Rough Ride, a two-lap Circuit Time Trial, Grass Track, Road Race, Hill Climb, Off-Road Championship, Cyclo-Cross, Club Night attendance, Club Run attendance and Club Worker (decided by members’ votes) that represents a truly all-round club member.

She was in complete shock at the announcement, even asking if the points had been added up correctly! Nevertheless, she had participated in the Off-Road Championship, Club Rides, is one the most regular attendees at the Club Night in their clubroom and scored very highly in the Club Worker, to score four more points than her closest rival’s Dave Bowers and Club Chairman Mark Burchett.

In the Under 18 Super Championship, it was again the same three contenders with 12-year-old Francis Robb improving on his points tally to beat his elder brother Alexander, ahead of Colin Mantle.

On the road, Colin retained the Carrington Cup as the fastest Under 14 year old, improving on his average speed over 10 miles to record 17.98mph. While Alexander showed his development to win the Dave Morley Cup averaging 19.32 mph over 10 miles for those under 16.

The presentations were made by the Club’s President Peter Bentley, held in West Row’s well-equipped Village Hall

The President was also on the receiving end, when the Club’s Chairman turned the tables on Mr Bentley to award him with the Committee’s Award. Mr Burchett presented him with a glass tankard engraved with ‘Services to Mildenhall Cycling Club’

Mr Burchett said ”All Club’s and organisations rely on volunteers, but there cannot be many where an 85 year-old member is still actively involved and even helping with some of the physical jobs. It was for this reason that the committee unanimously decided to make the award to Mr Bentley.”

19th February 2017

KLMTB Winter Series - Club Round Up

The end of 2016 saw the return of a local mountain bike winter series, brilliantly organised by King’s Lynn Mountain Bike Club and sponsored by Revel Outdoors. Each round has included 1.5 and 3 hour races for juniors (16-18 years), seniors and veterans, as well as a 1 hour “fun” category. Three of the four rounds have now taken place and there have been some good results for current and former club members.

Round 1 – Emily’s Wood, Santon Downham

Emily’s Wood is well known territory for club members – used for the club off-road championship – so this round was of course well attended by MCC riders. Matthew Mantle, Garth Collier, Alan Towler and Matt Skeats took part for Mildenhall, along with Jake Towler and Jesse Towler (now with West Suffolk Wheelers) and Lee Woodcock (now with HKR XC Team). The course was dry and fast, with temperatures reaching around 15°C almost making it feel like a summer event!

Jake Towler and Matt Skeats raced in the 1.5 hr senior category. Matt had a very good start, but eventually dropped back through the field, including losing a place to Jake, who put in a great ride to finish 10th. After exchanging places several times with Arnav Kapur (Cambridge University CC) a late burst of speed saw Matt come out ahead to claim 13th.

Matthew Mantle and Garth Collier were placed well in the 1.5 hr veteran race, finishing 24th and 40th respectively in a large field of 70 riders!
In the 3 hr race, Lee Woodcock finished fifth, a very good result coming back from injury.  Unfortunately, a mechanical problem meant Jesse Towler didn’t finish, with Alan Towler suffering the same fate in the fun category.

Results: http://www.timelaps.co.uk/assets/uploads/EVENTREPORT.aspx?eventid=220FireRoad2430/10/2016

Round 2 – West Bilney Woods

The second venue was new for the majority of riders, taking place at West Bilney Woods, near King’s Lynn. In contrast to Emily’s Wood, the course included some short, steep climbs, which made it a quite different challenge to round 1. Also different this time was the weather, much colder at around 2°C.
With only the top five riders of each category being gridded, Matt Skeats and Jake Towler found themselves starting towards the back of the field. The start was on a very short fire road, which led to them queuing for the first section of single-track. After a few short climbs the field leveled out and the riders got into their rhythms. Matt and Jake rode strongly for the remainder of the race, mostly gaining places, to finish 10th and 12th respectively.

Results: http://www.timelaps.co.uk/assets/uploads/EventReport.aspx?eventID=221KingsLynn04/12/2016

Round 3 – Fire Road 6, Brandon

With rain throughout and temperatures only just above freezing, the Winter Series definitely lived up to its name in round 3! Despite the event being sold-out, the weather seemed to have played a part in reducing the field, and at least one person was spotted leaving after a practice lap! Those who remained were treated to a cold, wet and muddy race, much more difficult than previous rounds but still great fun. What could have been a very fast course became very slippery, with some sections being more about who could stay on the bike than who was fittest. A last-minute course alteration was even necessary due to ice, which had caused Matt Skeats and others to take an unwanted tumble in the practice lap!

This course was well designed for a good start, with a long, wide stretch before any single-track. Despite starting in the middle of the pack, Matt managed to make good progress and work up to approximately 7th place in the 1.5 hour senior category. Unfortunately, the early effort left him with nothing in the tank for the second half! Meanwhile, Jake Towler was making very good progress through the field. After a final lap almost 6 minutes slower than his first, Matt was very pleased to hang on to an unexpected 9th place! Just 6 seconds behind were three riders finishing strongly in the same category, including Jake in 12th place.

In the 3 hour race, Lee Woodcock finished 7th, a great result despite an early bike problem.

For the first time in the series, Muc-Off were in attendance and offered free bike cleaning. Needless to say, there was a long queue after this muddy race!
Results: http://www.timelaps.co.uk/assets/uploads/EventReport.aspx?eventID=222FireRoad615/01/2017

Series Results

Having raced all 3 rounds so far, Matt Skeats and Jake Towler are well placed in the series overall going in to the final round:

1.5 Hour Senior Men Category - Top 10 of 60

Pos

Rider

Team / Sponsor

Overall Points

1

Chris Skinner

-

670

2

James Buckingham

Performance Coaching

490

3

Matt Ellis

EpicOrange / KTM / Physio Resolutions

410

4

Robert Smithers

Kings Lynn MTB

380

4

Tom O'Neill

Revel Outdoors

380

6

Dan Collins

Kings Lynn MTB

339

7

Matthew Skeats

Mildenhall CC/ UYCC

308

8

Jake Towler

West Suffolk Wheelers

288

9

Duncan Ryan

Performance Coaching

286

10

Grant Wilkinson

-

266

Adapted from http://www.klmtbracing.com/series_results.php
Despite only having done 2 rounds, Lee Woodcock is 8th in the 3 hour category:

3 Hour Senior Men Category - Top 10 of 48

Pos

Rider

Team / Sponsor

Overall Points

1

Jack Wilson

Steve Poole Plant Hire / Raleigh

490

2

Andrew Cockburn

Newdales Cycles RT

460

3

Tom Wragg

Morvelo Test Team

450

4

Jonathan Sheasby

Transition Cycles/GS Sheasby

410

5

Matt Scarsborough

Arrow Cycles

370

6

Tom Ward

Newdales

340

7

Neil Catling

LifeCycleUK

323

8

Lee Woodcock

HKR XC Team

310

9

James Shaw

Steve Poole Plant Hire/Raleigh

304

9

Jonathan Stannard

Too slow to be sponsored

304

Adapted from http://www.klmtbracing.com/series_results.php

The final round will take place at Shouldham Warren on 12th February 2017.

Details and entry: http://www.klmtbracing.com/index.php?event=winter_series

Matt Skeats

17th January 2017

Three Counties Club Ride

I had been idly planning a club run going south from Newmarket for a while as I particularly like the countryside there. It is gently rolling which makes it quite suited to cycling. The lack of a café stop had always put a stop to these plans, though I had noticed there was a café at Sturmer Garden Centre.

In November Mark put out a call for someone to run a club run on the 4th of December. This was the spur I needed, so while travelling back to work from Aerocycles in Haverhill (I can recommend them as a great bike shop), I detoured into the garden centre at Sturmer and checked out the café. They had some lovely looking cakes on the counter so I thought it would make a great coffee stop for my ride.

The club run started from Kirtling in Cambridgeshire. There is a minor road with a wide verge which makes a good place to park up. We met up with Viv, Angie and Jon and were ready to ride. Jon is visually impaired, so rides on a tandem with Angie. The club bought a tandem to allow blind and partially sighed people to enjoy cycling and take part in club runs. Angie has been coordinating this scheme which has been very successful, and the club now has four tandems after further bikes have been donated.

The weather was perfect for a December day with bright sunshine, though it was only about 4ºC. Wrapped up warm we all set off.  Soon after leaving Kirtling we went into Suffolk and were rewarded with a long down hill run to the river Stour, paid for straight afterwards with a climb up to Great Bradley. After another down hill run back to the Stour we passed back into Cambridgeshire.

On club runs we always ride at the speed of the slowest rider. Usually I set a pace of 12 miles an hour, reducing this on hills so no one is left behind. Beyond Carlton the countryside flattens out and we had a pleasant run through picturesque villages to Shudy Camps where the land takes on a distinct rolling characteristic, though we were rewarded with some lovely views. Soon after Castle Camps we went into our third county, Essex.

After 20 miles we were all pleased to arrive at our café stop at Sturmer. Once coffee, hot-chocolate, pasties and cake were ordered we all sat out side for a well earned rest. The terrace of the café made a lovely sun-trap, so even in December it was very pleasant to eat alfresco. Dave had been unable to join us on the ride as he is recovering from his replacement hip operation but joined us for coffee. Viv took advantage of this to end her ride at Stumer, her bike loaded back into the van.

Suitably fortified the remaining six of us set off for the return leg. Two long climbs (or as long as they get in East Anglia) from Kedington to Brockley Green and up through the village of Hundon brought us to a lovely sweeping downhill run to Stradishall. Still enjoying the sunshine we completed the last few miles to Kirtling. After 36 miles through three counties with conditions perfect for December we arrived back at Angie's waiting camper van, Poppy.

Once the tandem was safely loaded into the van we said our goodbyes and the Robb family set off for a final half hour run for home, giving us a total of 53 miles of superb winter cycling.

We are always on the look-out for people to lead Club runs, so if you have a favourite ride why not treat the rest of us to it and run it as a club run. Food always tastes better after a good cycle ride and cake can be guilt free as it will be burnt off on the run for home.

David Robb

5th December 2016

2016 Rough Ride route revealed

The Club have confirmed the route for this year's Rough Ride, that will take place on Sunday 20th March.

It is largely based on the route devised by Martin Skeats for last years event, with the start in Mildenhall Woods at 10am. The riders will set off at one minute intervals. The course consists of a mixture of Forest tracks, quiet by-roads and public bridleways, covering just under 17miles before finishing at their Clubroom in Wamil Way, Mildenhall.

Click here to get your copy.

10th March 2016

Award winners for 2015

There was a twist in the tale of Mildenhall Cycling Club’s Annual Prize Presentation recently held in the West Row Village Hall.

As Chairman Mark Burchett displayed the trophies for the presentations by Club President Peter Bentley, he made a discovery that the most coveted award, the Super Champion trophy for 2015 had been won by himself! Club member Marc Bowers who has the unenviable task of collating all of the results and working out who has won what, threw the chairman off the scent stating another member had won that competition. He even enlisted the help of that member, David Robb, in the ruse to keep it from the Chairman, who had really won.

The joke was not lost on Mr Burchett, although he was embarrassed with the tables turned on him when the President made the presentation to him.
It is a season long competition based on members’ performances in a variety of club events consisting of a Rough Ride, a two-lap Circuit Time Trial, Grass Track, Road Race, Hill Climb, Off-Road Championship, Cyclo-Cross, Club Night attendance and Club Run attendance (October to March) and Club Worker (decided by members’ votes).

Like Club stalwart Dave Bowers, who has been the winner of the Super Champion competition in four out of the last five years and runner –up with Jean Poole in 2015, it really does go to show that you do not have to be a competitive rider to win it.

The Chairman said afterwards “I really did have to look at the prestigious Sawbridge Rose Bowl trophy twice when I saw my name engraved as the 2015 winner and not that of David Robb. Although I do take part in several club events it hadn’t even crossed my mind that I had done anywhere near enough to be in contention, let alone win it!”

While the 53-year-old may have won his first ever trophy, the Mantle family will be needing a bigger mantle-piece! Firstly, 13-year-old Colin won the Under 18 version of the Super Champion competition, well ahead of Francis and Alexander Robb, respectively; as well as the Under 18 Off-Road Championship, Under 18 Cyclo-Cross Championship and the Under 18 Track Championship! While on the road, he won the Carrington Cup with a speed of 17.22mph for a ten-mile time-trail and the Dave Morley Cup with an average of 16.78mph.

Mum, Diane, was the Ladies Off-Road Champion for 2015, although Dad Matthew could only manage runner-up in the Senior equivalent after a season long tussle with Pete Clements. Matthew however, was the clear winner in the Club’s Senior Cyclo-Cross Championship.

There was also a surprise for Diane as she was presented with the Committee’s Award.  She had been nominated for the award for her outstanding achievement in off- road events during the year.

Following the Awards, Aimee and Millie Flack presented the President’s wife Jean Bentley with a bouquet of flowers. Over 60 members and friends attended the Annual Awards with the catering organised by Julie Wright and Viv Bowers, with help from other members.

23rd February 2016

Social Evening Update

Twenty-three members took part in Sturmey's Bingo Night, which was held last Friday.

A good time was had by all and prizewinners included Bert & Sue Woodhead, Ann Williamson, Josh Murad, Amanda Archer, Garth Collier & Dave Bowers.

Six teams competed in our Quiz Night, which was held back in November. Quizmaster for the evening was Dave Sennitt and the results were as follows.

  1. Just came for the Chips (aka the Robb Family) 71pts
  2. Optimism (Bert & Sue Woodhead/Ann & John Williamson) 65pts
  3. The Bright Side (Diane, Matthew & Colin Mantle/Jean Poole 58pts
  4. The Almost Theres 55pts
  5. The Brecklanders 51pts
  6. Fen Tigers 29pts

There will not be a social evening in February but details of March's event will be advertised shortly.

Jean Poole

2nd February 2016

Congratulations to Paul Flack

Mildenhall Cycling Club's Paul Flack completed the remarkable feat of cycling every single day of 2015. In doing so, “8,866 miles were covered and enough elevation climbed to ride up Mount Everest seven times!” he modestly says, adding "Although I am sure there must be plenty of people out there who have ridden 365 days!"

To put the forty-seven year old’s achievement in to context, it is just under an average of 25 miles every single day. He explains, “It started when we went down to one family car and I started riding to work every day from 8th December 2014.”

“I thought it would be good to ride Christmas Day 2014 and after that I heard about the overall mileage in a year record that Steve Abraham was attempting. I guess it was that which really sparked the idea to continue into the New Year 2015 as I just wanted to see if I could get a taste for what Steve was going through (even if I was only doing a tiny amount of mileage compared to him !).”

So my first Strava ride title of 2015 was "New Year, New Challenge - Day 1 of 365”!  And that was the start of the calendar year challenge and now all my ride mates where then aware - so there was no turning back!

“So with Wednesday Saturday and Sunday training rides coupled with daily commutes the days kept passing and the mileage rising. Some rides (but not many) were training sessions on rollers but they were always over 20 miles and either an interval session or a hard workout. I also completed a number of road races, Cyclo-Cross, Sportive's, Off-Road Sportive's, Time-Trials, Gran Fondo events along with our normal high paced Saturday and Wednesday runs with Flatlandria and MCC friends.”

"The two toughest events were probably the Tour of Cambridgeshire, which was an 80 mile closed road gran fondo where we managed to group ride at a 23mph average without stopping for the whole distance. Carried 3 bottles, ate on the bike and we clipped in at the start then did not unclip until the finish 80 miles later."

"The other tough ride was the event for classic bikes in the peak district "Eroica Britannia". Riding a 1960 six speed Holdsworth Hurricane and dressed in period clothes this festival weekend of all things retro cycling runs a 100-mile sportive for pre 1987 bikes. So enjoyable but tough none the less on a 6 speed bike that weighed as much as a transit van climbing over 9000 feet through the peak district hills and valleys. One thing I do recall from this ride was the feast stops - not your average sportive energy bars but WI style home cooking, bacon rolls, beer and even a glass of champagne in front of Chatsworth house with 6 miles to go."

“Holiday time in Cornwall was tricky - getting out for 20 or 30 miles while the family slept so that the day was not interrupted - proper hilly down there on the north shore!”

"The toughest days were Monday morning commutes after a race or sportive weekend or during the two sessions of illness, I went through. April saw me visiting the hospital for scans so during then I kept going but just eased the mileage down slightly."

"July I had a week of gastric flu. Having passed out due to this flu bug one night I was sure the next day’s ride was not going to happen, however once Mrs F had left the house I managed to wobble round the block at such a slow weak speed another mile was clocked up and on Strava. It was only a mile but it was a ride all the same! I thought I had got away without anyone knowing I had been riding in a sick condition until one of my girls let the secret out to Mrs F! That went down well. So as that sick week went on I got weaker but kept doing a token mile and in the end it was Mrs F who was giving me the encouragement to at least get a short ride in."

"The late summer and autumn was the same mixture of races, velodrome sessions and flat out Flatlandria coffee rides. The mileage kept going up with 250-mile weeks becoming regular. I had tried to stay ahead of Jamie (Flatlandria and MCC) all year but he was putting in some big rides. So commutes were getting longer and Saturday rides were anywhere between 75 and 100 miles most weeks. Legs never really recover when there are no rest days so some outings were rest rides where I just spun slower and enjoyed the view."

"The weather deteriorated, lots of wind and rain but not too cold and October and December turned out to be the best mileage months each netting around 990 miles for the month."

"So the last challenge of the year was upon me. How could I finish this year in style? Rapha and Strava combine each Christmas to run the Festive 500 which is a challenge to complete 500km in 8 days from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Eve. Always a tricky one fitting in riding around parties, drinking, eating and with the added difficulty of bad weather. Well for the first year ever I managed to complete it and one day early as well. That left New Year’s Eve for a party ride for coffee with 19 of my mates, many of who have helped motivate me into completing this daft year of fun."

"Fellow Flatlandrians and MCC mates all deserve thanks but biggest thanks goes to Mrs F and my 2 girls for putting up with this year long obsession, not to mention the endless amount of lycra washing!"

"So that was my year of riding - a short resume of so many fun hours spent in the saddle! And what was the first day off like? Well I don’t know yet as am still at it and have just surpassed the 400-day mark since December 2014"

As to what next Paul concludes by saying "I am sure this year will be different and potential business trips planned for February will enforce a day of rest! But until then, who knows - I might just keep going :-)"

15th January 2016

Halloween Social Evening

27 hardy members braved the Halloween Evening held on Friday 30th October.
 
The Clubroom was suitably decorated for the occasion and there were also one or two scary creatures present! Everyone tucked into bangers, beans and baked potatoes before games were organised for the youngsters and some of the adults too :)
 
The next social evening will be a Quiz Night and this will take place on Friday 27th November.

Jean Poole

4th November 2015

Families tie in Club's Treasure Hunt

Twenty four Club members attended the Treasure Hunt held on 31st July and a total of 8 teams dared to follow the clues set by Jean and Viv.

There was an eventual tie for 1st place between the Carrington's (Katie, Richard & James) and the Mantles (Diane, Matthew & Colin), who appeared to cover the whole of Mildenhall town centre and can now quote the menus of a number of eating places! Third place went to Bert & Sue Woodhead.
 
Sturmey (Barry Archer) once again kindly provided the sausages for the barbie and Viv organised the rest of the food.
 
We also celebrated Grace Towler's 13th birthday.
 
Details of the next social evening, which will take place in September will be emailed to members.

Full Result:

1. Katie, Richard & James Carrington    
1. Diane, Matthew & Colin Mantle    
3 Bert & Sue Woodhead    
4. Mark & Mandy Burchett    
5. Barbara & Lucia Carrington    
6. Ann & John Williamson    
7. Amanda Archer, Sylvia & Grace Towler    
8. David Archer, Jesse & Levi Towler    

 

Jean Poole

4th August 2015


Members compete in latest MSG event

The latest round of the Mud Sweat and Gears series on the 5th of July was held in the grounds of Ixworth House near Bury St. Edmunds.

When the riders representing Mildenhall Cycling Club arrived early in the morning for their practice laps, they found the course dry and fast so were expecting some exciting racing. But as the first races began torrential rain started falling, turning the tracks through the woods to complete mud slides and the perfect conditions deteriorated rapidly.

The bikes rapidly became clogged up with mud and it became a race of attrition. Many riders had to stop and clear the mud from their wheels and mechanism before they could continue. Some very hard racing ensued which resulted in some very good performances from Club members. 

In the open Male category Mathew Mantle was 5th and Alan Towler (pictured below left) was 65th. Francis Robb (pictured below right) was 24th in the under 12 boys.

In the juvenile category the club was represented by Colin Mantle (pictured below left) and Alex Robb (pictured below right) who put very good performances to finish 18th and 20th respectively.


David Robb managed the fantastic placing for him of 28th in the veteran Male category much improved from his 60th last time out. 

 

David Robb

19th July 2015

Club Launches a unique Tandem Opportunity

Mildenhall Cycling Club has launched a unique service aimed at anyone wanting to ride a tandem.

They displayed the Dawes Tandem bought for the purpose at Saturday’s Lark in the Park on Mildenhall’s Jubilee Fields, with the help of Jim Watt from Mildenhall and Jon Petty from Bury St Edmunds, who both have impaired vision.

 Tandem Opportunity

The idea was the brainchild of member Angela Watts (pictured above left) who works with people with sight and hearing loss in the West Suffolk area for Sensing Change. Sensing Change, a company wholly owned by Suffolk County Council, aims to help those with a significant sight, hearing or dual sensory loss who need support and advice. Others in the picture are Jim Watt and Jon Petty, together with Mandy Burchett from Mildenhall CC, who also works and rides for Maglia Rosso who supplied the tandem.

It’s an idea Miss Watts has had for some time and is excited that at long last it is coming to fruition. She explained “The facility is aimed at a wide variety of people and although it began as an idea to help those people I work with who can’t enjoy sport and particularly cycling it’s developed into a scheme offering tandem cycling to everyone.

They can be keen cyclists looking for a new challenge, those with a visual impairment or their friends and family willing to support someone interested in trying tandem riding with a sighted partner or volunteer.”

She added “it was wonderful to see people enjoying the tandem as it provides such a great opportunity to access the many benefits of cycling. I hope other’s will be inspired to give it a try too. Anyone keen to participate in tandem riding, or volunteer support in any way, please do get in touch!

Lark in the Park and then the Mildenhall Cycling Rally in August are great events for getting local people involved and sharing the pleasure of cycling especially with 2015/16 being Suffolk’s Year of Cycling!”

With the help of funding from Forest Heath District Council, the Cycling Club has been able to purchase the Dawes Duet tandem to add to the existing machine they began with. The machine has been supplied by Hawstead based Cycle Shop & Country Café Maglia Rosso, with Dawes Cycles discounting the price in support of this worthy cause.

As well as the Tandem Cycling, the Club promoted their Go-Ride programme with an obstacle course that over 40 local children rode against the clock and their nationally acclaimed Mildenhall Cycling Rally. 

Go-Ride is a British Cycling initiative to give children between the ages of 8 and 16 the opportunity to try cycling in a safe environment. Under the guidance of their Level 2 Coach Mandy Burchett the Club will have an Obstacle course, complete with seesaw and limbo bar, for children to come and try.  

Like the Tandem Cycling, the Mildenhall Cycling Rally that takes place over the August bank-holiday weekend has something for local people and appealing to the whole family.

Anyone who would like to know more about the scheme either as a participant or volunteer, can contact Angela Watts either by phone 07950 365692 or emailing tandem@mildenhallcc.org.uk

12th July 2015

Social Evening Goes Down Under

On Friday evening a small group of Club members enjoying watching a selection of video clips from a week spent on the cycle trails on New Zealand's South Island, presented by Max Pendleton.

Social Evening
 
The clips included some stunning scenery and scary looking trails, perfect for a Sunday club run!?!?
 
Those present also enjoyed a cheese and wine buffet.
 
Details of the next social evening, which will take place on Friday 31st July, have been emailed to all members.

Jean Poole

29th June 2015

Members compete in recent MSG event

Club members put up some credible rides with Matthew Mantle (pictured below left) 13th  in the open Male race, while in the Juvenile class his son Colin (pictured centre) was 16th ahead of Alexander Robb 24th (pictured right).

Francis Robb (pictured below left) was 26th in the Under 12's race competing against riders two years older than him. Jesse Towler came 18th in the sport male class and David Robb (pictured centre) was happy with his 60th in the Veteran male class.

 

David Robb

24th June 2015

Mildenhall Cycling Club awarded £30,000 of funding from Sport England

Mildenhall Cycling Club is among 148 sports projects nationally to secure a share of £10 million of National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities fund.

Since 2011, Inspired Facilities has been helping breathe new life into tired community sports facilities and converting existing buildings into venues suitable for grassroots sport. Sport England Logo

Mildenhall Cycling Club will receive £31,831 of National Lottery funding for the development of their project to refurbish their Mildenhall Clubroom. This will include substantially improving the insulation of the building that was constructed in the late seventies, when requirements were far less. It will then be re-clad with an environmentally friendly product that will compliment the cladding of the adjacent Mildenhall Cricket Club.

Improvements inside will include re-wiring the whole building to modern standards, installing low-energy lighting and heating, proper extraction facilities in the mini-gym area, as well as upgrading the toilet facilities.

Sport England Property Director, Charles Johnston, said: “The Inspired Facilities Fund has had a huge impact on grassroots sport across the country. Since 2011, we’ve invested £94 million into more than 1,800 projects to improve and refurbish sports clubs and transform non-sporting venues into vibrant community sports clubs.

“It’s great to see Mildenhall Cycling Club join the long list of successful clubs to benefit from this fund.”

Club Chairman, Mark Burchett, said: “We are delighted to have secured this investment, which means we can upgrade the quality of our premises that will extend its life for 35 years and beyond. It is the cornerstone of our strategy to have an outstanding club for the 2012 Olympics’ legacy.”

NL Life Changing logoHe added “We will certainly be putting this National Lottery funding to good use. By having a bright vibrant and modern looking building we hope to attract more members from the local community. The improvements will enable the building to be used all year round and not cost a fortune to heat and light.”

Many more communities are set to benefit from the hugely popular fund with the latest round of the Inspired Facilities now open. Community and voluntary organisations, councils and schools can bid for a share of £20 million to help  upgrade facilities that can be unattractive, expensive to run and difficult to maintain, and to convert existing non-sporting buildings into venues that are suitable for grassroots sport.

Applying for funding has never been easier. Based on feedback from previous applicants, the Inspired Facilities Fund is now an open programme which means projects can submit applications as soon as they are ready rather than being restricted by a specific deadline. To find out more and bid, visit www.sportengland.org/inspiredfacilities.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For more details about the project, please contact Mark Burchett mark@burchett.org.uk

At least 70 per cent of the funding will go to community and voluntary organisations, through grants of between £20,000 and £75,000. The remaining funding will be open to a wider group of organisations, including councils and schools, with grants of up to £150,000 available.

To make sure the technical elements of the application process do not put off groups with good projects, Sport England has created a catalogue of typical facilities developments and costs, based on what sports clubs have told us they need.

Sport England is focused on helping people and communities across the country create a sporting habit for life. We will invest over £1 billion of National Lottery and Exchequer funding between 2012 and 2017 in organisations and projects that will:

  • Help more people have a sporting habit for life
  • Create more opportunities for young people to play sport
  • Nurture and develop talent
  • Provide the right facilities in the right places
  • Support local authorities and unlock local funding
  • Ensure real opportunities for communities.

The National Lottery has been changing lives for 18 years.  Every week National Lottery players raise over £30 million to help change people's lives across the UK.

For more information please contact the Sport England press office:

1st June 2015

Social Night with a difference!

The latest Club Social evening took place on Friday 29th May at the Clubroom and unlike previous social's it included a Club Ride too!

Eighteen members turned out for the Ride and Barbeque on a lovely evening, albeit a bit windy. 13 of these took part in the 16 mile ride on local roads, returning for a barbeque, which was ably cooked by Sturmey, who also very kindly donated the meat, so thank you Sturmey!

The next Social Evening will take place on Friday 26th June; please check the June Newsletter for further details.

29th May 2015

Members enjoy Bluebell Club Ride in Bedfordshire

A group of members travelled down to the home of Max Pendleton, for a ride that took in two wonderful examples of bluebell woods. A few images that enapsulates the ride.

4th May 2015

2015 Rough Ride details announced

There are two classes, Sport (21 miles) and Fun (17 miles) in this year's annual Mildenhall Cycling Club Rough Ride

  • The sport class is part of the Super Champ series.
  • The fun class, well that is just for fun, an opportunity for people of all ages to come along take part and have fun.

If you don’t fancy riding out but would still like to be involved; there are opportunities for serving tea and cakes in the warmth of the clubhouse, you can help with the time keeping or out on the course as a Marshall?

Whether taking part in the event or volunteering, please confirm which by e-mail before the 18/3/2015. A map of the routes will sent out by return as confirmation of participation.

On the day (22/3/2015), please assemble at the Clubroom in Wamil Way 8.45- 9.00am. There will be a short safety briefing before we ride off towards the start in Mildenhall woods. The place where the Off-Road Uphill/ Downhill takes place. 

Signs with a pink background will mark the route for the sport class and the fun class will have yellow.

This year the event is open to non- members. So please encourage family, friends and colleagues to come along and have a go. The long-term weather forecast looks excellent so get your gear on, pump up your tyres and have some fun.

Martin Skeats
Event Organiser

28th February 2015

2014 Champions saluted at Annual Awards

Dave Bowers and David Robb tied on 33 points to share the honours in Mildenhall Cycling Club’s Senior Super Champion competition in 2014.

Club President Peter Bentley presented them with the prestigious Sawbridge Rose Bowl trophy in front of members and friends at the Club's Annual Prize Presentations held in West Row Village Hall.

It is a season long competition based on members’ performances in a variety of club events consisting of a Rough Ride, a two-lap Circuit Time Trial, Grass Track, Road Race, Hill Climb, Off-Road Championship, Cyclo-Cross, Club Night attendance and Club Run attendance (October to March) and Club Worker (decided by members’ votes).

This is an unprecedented fourth year running that 70 year old Dave Bowers name appears on the trophy, having won it outright between 2011 and 2013. Afterwards Mr Bowers said “I was genuinely surprised, I really didn’t expect to win it again!”

The Club’s chairman Mark Burchett added, “He really does set a wonderful example to the younger or newer members, like David Robb. It is the most coveted of all the Club's awards and represents a truly all-round club member.”

In the Under 18’s version Ryan Skeats won it by just three points ahead of David Robb’s eldest son, Alexander with last year’s winner Josh Murad in third.
Alexander was chosen as the recipient of the Committee’s Award. As Mark Burchett explained, “The committee were very impressed that on the weekend he turned 13, he and his Dad endured cold icy conditions to ride 57 miles on and off road in just under six and a half hours. That’s no mean feat even for older experienced members!”

As well as the Robb family fully participating in Club life, the Mantle’s were even more successful. Repeating her success of 2013 in the Ladies Off-Road Championship Mum, Diane finished in front of Jean Poole, with a maximum 80 points.

Although in the equivalent senior competition Dad Matthew was narrowly piped by Jesse Towler, he was the clear winner of the Senior Cyclo-Cross Championship and their son Colin, 12, won the Under 18 Off-Road Championship.

Pete Clements, despite humbly suggesting he won the soft awards, was fastest up Primrose Hill in Moulton for the Annual Hill Climb Championship and he won the Senior Grass-Track Championship, held at the annual Mildenhall Cycling Rally. Neither are easy achievements!

Josh Murad won the Dave Morley Cup with an average speed of 20.23 mph. (It’s decided by the fastest average speed recorded in a time trial of approximately 10 miles in any open, semi-open or Mildenhall Club event). The same average speed was enough to secure the Carrington Cup, which is for the member under 14 recording the fastest average speed in any Mildenhall Club evening time trial.

Click here for the full list of award winners.

28th February 2015

Our Club Shop at Impsport

Welcome to Your Club Shop!

To access the exclusive Mildenhall CC Online Club Shop, please go to www.yourclubshop.co.uk and enter the following unique password in the club password box: MILDHL1094

All club kit is custom made and will be manufactured within our current lead time of 4 weeks.

If you have any special requests such as size amendments or certain date requirements please state in special instructions box or follow up email to sales@sportsandleisurebrands.co.uk, or call 01522 778805, where one of our team will be happy to help you.

8th February 2015

Two members clock up 100 years consecutive years membership

Two Mildenhall Cycling Club members who have clocked up 100 years consecutive years membership were honoured at a celebration on Sunday.

Dave Sennitt and Harvey WrightIn 1964 Dave Sennitt and Harvey Wright both joined Mildenhall & District Cycling Club, as it was known then and have remained members ever since. Although Dave Sennitt no longer rides, Harvey still participates in many of the events the Mildenhall Club holds. Both are active members of the Club’s organising committee for the highly successful Mildenhall Cycling Rally, the club hold every year over the August Bank-Holiday weekend.

Held in the superb facilities provided by the West Row Village Hall, nearly a hundred current and ex-members, friends and family members gathered to join in the celebration. They also included old adversaries such as Rodney Briscoe, who used to race for Diss and District CC, although as he said, “we used to race against each other but I got to know Harvey and Dave socially as well. We even went to Butlin’s one Christmas together!”

After a barbecue and salad lunch provided by members, the Club’s Chairman Mark Burchett thanked everyone for coming and helping them celebrate the remarkable achievement of Dave Sennitt and Harvey Wright.

He said ”In today’s world it is becoming increasingly hard to find such loyalty and it is a real pleasure to be here to honour Dave and Harvey, who have been members of our Club for 50 consecutive years.”

“In many ways it is quite fitting that we’re celebrating their feat together as in the early years they would travel together to grass-track races, with Dave’s dad Harold the driver.”

“During the last 50-year’s they have proudly worn the Mildenhall colours in representing us not only across the Eastern region, but further field as well.”

“They now join a very elite group within the Club and together with Dave Bowers, between the three of them have 155 years of membership. There can’t be many cycling clubs that can boast such a feat!”

The celebration may not have been a surprise to either cyclist, but the presentation of a Photo Book charting their respective lives over the 50 years, most certainly was. The Club’s President Peter Bentley made the presentation of these and a framed photograph each.

As well as these mementoes, members Jean Poole and Viv Bowers also deserve praise for the display of photographs and old records they had put together, that provided many talking points!

4th October 2014

Club loses one of its Honorary Members

Mildenhall Cycling Club are very sorry to have to announce that Jim Staines, an Honorary member since 2009, has died.

In an email to club members, his daughter Mandy Burchett said "It is with great sadness that I send this email to let you know that Dad passed away yesterday, (Saturday 13th September).

Most of you who knew him will know that he had been poorly for some years and we were blessed to have had him longer than we should of."

Jim had not long celebrated 52 years of marriage with Vera, also made an Honorary Member in 2009 and with whom he had enjoyed cycling in it's many guises throughout their lives.

The funeral will be on Monday 29th September at 3pm at
West Suffolk Crematorium
Risby
Suffolk
IP28 6RR

Afterwards there will be a Celebration of his life at:
Mildenhall Cricket Club
Wamil way
Mildenhall
Suffolk
IP28 7JU

Jim's wish was not to have flowers except from immediate family. If you feel you would like to, he wanted donations to go to RAFBF  (The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund) who helped him greatly in later life by funding his mobility scooter.

Donations can be given on the day or by post to:
Mark Skinner Funeral Directors
Bury Road
Thetford
IP24 3DE

Mandy added "His wish is that this be a celebration of his life not to mourn his passing. Therefore we would prefer you not to wear black. If you are a cyclist we would love to see you in your club colours."

She would like to know if you are planning on going to either the crematorium and, or his celebration (for catering) and can be contacted by
email: mandyburchett@gmail.com
or ring 07540 687929 (please leave message if no answer)

21st September 2014

An insight into last year's Club Competitions
Mildenhall CC celebrated last years champions at their Annual Prize Presentation in February and here now are the breakdown's of the main competions.

Senior Super Championship

Under 18 Super Championship

Off-Road Championship

25th April 2014

Bowers wins Super Champ' Trophy for third year running!

Dave Bowers has been revealed as Mildenhall Cycling Club's Super Champion for the third year running!

Club President Peter Bentley presented him with the prestigious Sawbridge Rose Bowl trophy in front of members and friends at the Club's 2013 Prize Presentations held recently in the superb facilities at West Row Village Hall.

It is a season long competition based on members performances in a variety of club events consisting of a Rough Ride, a two-lap Circuit Time Trial, Grass Track, Road Race, Hill Climb, Off-Road Championship, Cyclo-Cross, Club Night attendance and Club Run attendance (October to March) and Club Worker (decided by members’ votes).

The Club’s chairman Mark Burchett said afterwards, "It is the most coveted of all the Club's awards and represents a truly all-round club member. It must be unprecedented for the same member to win it in three consecutive years, although it is testimony to the 69 year olds commitment to the Club that he has beaten many members far younger than him. He really does set a wonderful example to the growing number of young people in our Club.

The top two placings in the Under 18’s version were a reversal of last year’s competition. Josh Murad improved on his runners-up spot last year to finish ahead of Ryan Skeets and Jake Towler, who tied for second.

Josh enjoyed his best season as a Club member winning the U18 Cyclo-Cross Championship and the Carrington Cup with a speed of 17.87mph, (It is for the member under 14 recording the fastest average speed in any Mildenhall Club evening time trial)

As well as collecting his own awards, Josh also was kept busy collecting the trophies won by his uncle, Lee Woodcock, who was racing at an MTB event in Norwich. Lee was fastest up Primrose Hill in Moulton for the Annual Hill Climb Championship and a runaway winner in the Senior Cyclo-Cross championship.

Showing his prowess off-road he was the joint winner with Matthew Mantle, having only ridden seven of the eleven rounds, compared to Matthew’s eight! In the Ladies award Diane Mantle took the honours ahead of Judith Robb.

Jake Towler achieved a clean sweep in the Under 18’s Off-Road Championship with 80 maximum points. He retained the Dave Morley Cup with an average speed of 21.24 mph, an improvement of nearly 3mph on his speed achieved in 2012. (It is decided by the fastest average speed recorded in a time trial of approximately 10 miles in any open, semi-open or Mildenhall Club event)

Jake also won the Club’s Under 18 Track Championship held at last years Mildenhall Cycling Rally, ahead of Adam Gough and Josh Murad. Jake’s older brother Alan, was victorious in the Senior Track Championship, beating last year’s winner Diane Mantle.

Click here for all the award winners.

20th February 2014

Busy weekend for Club

The Club's stand at Lark in the ParkNearly fifty children between the ages of 7 and 15 took part in the Go-Ride challenge course on their stand at Saturday's Lark in the Park.

The community event held on Mildenhall's Jubilee Fields was organised jointly by Forest Heath District Council and Mildenhall Parish Council.

Here one of our newer members Angie Watts talks about what the Club can offer prospective new members.

On Sunday, Ann & John Williamson led a club-run from their's south of Bury to Depden, where the 13 members enjoyed a well-deserved cuppa and some delicious scones at the Depden Farm Cafe., as can be seen below. Click Here for more images taken on the run.

Mildenhall Cycling Club

14th July 2013

Fun in the sun at Grimble Cottage

Thank you to the hospitality of John and Brenda Freiyer, we were certainly 'greeted and fed' at their home Grimble Cottage in Chedburgh.

Pratts Clubrun

Here's a few more images of the day!

7th July 2013

Inspired Facilities - Your Thoughts

The Club's committee are planning on making an application to Sport England for funding under their Inspired Facilities programme. The next and final window for applications is Round 5 between 21st October - 16th December 2013, although there may well be further funding available but we want to make sure our application is in before 16th December.

We have made our thoughts available before on how we see the clubroom refurbishment going, but as always we welcome any input from members on further ideas you have. Mark has the plans of what we propose to do, so if you would like to see them, please email him.

1st July 2013

Elveden Road Race - Final Round

Local rider Hugo Robinson (Ipswich BC) got his just rewards when he won the bunch sprint in the main race on Saturday in the final event of this year’s inaugural Elveden Road-Race Series.

He finished ahead of James Jobber (Neon Velo) and Alex Anderson (ASFRA Racing) in the Elites, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Category having taken 1hour 16minutes and 15seconds to cover the 44-mile race. In the previous round, having been part of an initial two-man break, they were joined by others and eventually had to settle for fifth.

In the 3rd and 4th Cats’ race however, Wllem de Boer (Cambridge CC) and Paul Groombridge (Iceni Velo) broke away early on in the race and kept a comfortable 30 seconds lead ahead of the remaining riders. So, after their 26-mile race, having already done the hard work early on in the race, it was down to them to contest the sprint for first with de Boer beating his breakaway companion.

Kevin Curtis (Stowmarket & District CC) just beat local rider Richard Carrington (Mildenhall CC) for third place, 35 seconds behind de Boer and Groombridge.

In the first event of the day that unlike previous rounds was held in warm sunshine, for 4th category riders, there were 74 lined up to contest the 26-mile race. This came down to a bunch sprint with Kevin Bell (Army CU) finishing ahead of Ben Howell (Strada Sport) and Spencer Laborde (Iceni Velo).

Clare Gillott from the London based Elite Cycling, won the Women’s race, who also competed over 26-miles. She beat junior Francesca Morgans-Slader (Lee Valley Youth CC) and a former National Youth Circuit Champion, Keira McVitty (Team Zenith).

Frank Longstaff (Colchester Rovers) won the Youth 'A' race over 26-miles, while Dougal Toms (Iceni Velo) won the Youth B event over 18 miles.

Yet again over 200 riders entered the day’s racing, which was held on the private roads of Lord Iveagh’s Elveden Estate, on the Norfolk / Suffolk border. Over the series of five events that have taken place between March and June, nearly 1,300 entrants have taken part, that’s an average of over 250.

Although the third round saw a record number of riders (325), boosted by GB team member, double Olympic and World Champion Laura Trott OBE and her sister Emma Trott who rides for the Dutch Women’s Pro' team Boels-Dolmans.

Afterwards, organiser Ken Joliffe said, “It was super day’s racing. All the riders think this circuit is good and more or less a square with 3 sharp bends and with a 500m drag every lap it is quite tiring. On top of that, if the wind is in the wrong direction it will break the field up on the real exposed sections.”

“It’s been a fantastic first year (at Elveden) especially when you consider how few riders there are in this area. I can’t have wished for much more quite honestly. I’ve learned quite a bit from the five events and have ideas for changes that would make for more attractive events,” he continued.

“To the last man (and woman) everyone has praised the circuit, many saying it is the best they have ever raced on. It is difficult to move up on the narrower sections of road but at least there is no traffic to have to contend with and all of the road can be used. Everyone wants to race there again next year.

According to one of the riders Phil Hetzel “Racing has been first class, the bends make it really difficult and the drag up past the finish makes itself felt.“

“In general it has made for some fast exciting racing. The finish point being a bit narrow requires careful positioning well before the last corner to win, a fact that the inexperienced riders fail to appreciate.

“I have also been heartened by the reaction from many riders thanking us for putting the racing on, you always get a few but not in such numbers. I appreciate all the hard work done by the team of volunteers including Mildenhall CC, West Suffolk Wheelers & Triathlon Club and Bishops Stortford CC to ensure the smooth running of the events, added Mr Jolliffe.

On the future he explained that the setting is ideal, with the start finish area set among meadows with no traffic noise. For next year it would be nice to be able to try racing in the opposite direction but that would require a different start / finish point, something that will have to be agreed with their hosts The Elveden Estate when discussions take place.

Complete results listing and photographs from the event can be found at www.elvedenraces.com.

30th June 2013

Elveden Road Race - Round 5

The final round of the inaugural Elveden Road Race series takes place this Saturday.

Over 200 have already entered, coming from across East Anglia and as far as London, Derbyshire and Yorkshire, with more expected on the day.

The ground-breaking opportunity came about after Lord Iveagh approached cycling’s governing body, British Cycling, offering access to a 5km (3.5 miles) tarmac circuit in the heart of the Estate for a series of early season road racing events that have run from March until now.

The series has been organised by Ken Joliffe who already organises the highly successful Lotus Cars Cycle Race League, with help from Bishops Stortford CC, Mildenhall CC and West Suffolk Wheelers and Triathlon Club, who have all recognised the fantastic potential that the unique setting of Elveden could bring cycling in East Anglia.

Lord Iveagh has said, "I am delighted to see the level of interest in the Elveden cycle races. Opening up the farm gates for this activity means cyclists have a realistic road-style surface to practice on, which I hope will go some way towards helping to develop the road racing skills of cyclists in this region."

Mr Joliffe said, “This circuit is a real gem, in that it is a real but short road circuit without the traffic. We want Elveden to be thought of as something special, something more than just another race. The circuit and the setting are certainly very unique.”

The first race will be the 4th Category riders starting at 9.45am, which has nearly a full field of 100 riders contesting the 25-mile race. The Women’s race off at 11.30am is also over 25 miles (7 laps), as is the Under 16’s which starts at 1.15pm. Starting 15 minutes after them will be the Under 14’s race that will cover 17 miles.

The most hotly contested event is expected to be the top riders who begin their 42-mile race (12 laps) at 2.45pm. Then 15 minutes later, the 3rd Category riders will start their 25-mile race.

More information about the Elveden Road-Races can be found on http://elvedencycleraces.com.

Entry and parking for spectators is free with a full day’s racing on offer. Access to the Elveden Estate will only be available at Mattins Lodge, off the A1065, Brandon Road, Lakenheath Airbase, Eriswell, Suffolk, IP27 9BS.
25th June 2013

60th Year Reunion an Overwhelming Success

Founding MembersNearly ninety members and ex-members attended Mildenhall Cycling Club's 60th year Reunion, held on Sunday in West Row's Village Hall.

One of the founding members Donny Clarke, who has lived in Australia for over thirty years, had planned his latest trip back to the UK to ensure he could attend this latest Reunion. He was joined by Bob Bragg who lives in Ipswich, Tony Beverley from Clare, Maurice Scrivener from Bury St Edmunds and John Tilbrook from Mildenhall. They are pictured here right, together with Chairman Mark Burchett and President Peter Bentley at the back from left to right.

Together with Alan Thompson, who sadly passed away in September 2012, they were responsible for the present cycling club in Mildenhall being founded in 1953. Mildenhall Wheelers had folded with the advent of the second-world war, although some of their trophies live on being used by the modern day club to recognise the achievements of members. These and a collection of medals were one of the displays that drew interest from those at the reunion.

There were a number of photographic displays as well, showing members from the different era’s, which were as fascinating to the newer and younger members trying to recognise who was who, to those that were the subjects of the pictures.

Mildenhall Cycling Club Chairman Mark Burchett said, “We are delighted that with the exception of Thomo (Alan Thompson) all of the founding members could be here. Without them, who knows whether we would have had a cycling club in Mildenhall and that is something that we will always be grateful for.”

“It is so gratifying to think that so many ex-members still have a special affinity with Mildenhall Cycling Club and days like today just help foster and continue that special relationship.” He added.

One ex-Member who now lives in Wiltshire, Andy Stuart, showed he’s not lost the appetite for competitive cycling taking part in a 50-mile time-trial in the morning! Not only that but he did so in under two-hours, averaging over 26mph!

Another ex-member who had travelled from Portsmouth to be at the Reunion was Roger Carradus who was a member in the 1970’s. He has recently returned from a cycling holiday on the Turkish – Syrian border!

All of the catering was carried out by members of the Club, while the celebration cake was made by Mrs Jean Cornell, from Mildenhall.

The Mildenhall club caters for all cyclists of all ages and abilities and has it own purpose built clubroom in Wamil Way, Mildenhall. They meet there every Monday evening from 8.15pm, except Bank-Holidays. Since the success of the GB cycling team in Beijing and especially in the London Olympics last year the Club has since seen a welcome upsurge in interest in cycling and now have over 100 members, the highest it has been since the late 1960’s and early 1970’s.

 

Mildenhall CC Members
Members present and past face the camera

Click here to see the Reunion in Pictures

23rd June 2013

60th Year Reunion

Mildenhall Cycling ClubMildenhall Cycling Club will be holding a reunion on Sunday to celebrate its 60th year.

Fouer of the original six founding members will be there, including Donny Clarke who has returned from Australia, where he has lived for a long-time, just for the reunion. Bob Bragg, who now lives in Ipswich, Maurice Scrivener living in Bury St Edmunds and John Tilbrook still living in Mildenhall, will join him.

Sadly Alan Thompson passed away in September 2012, Mike ‘Dizzy’ Base has a prior engagement in York and John Clements, the Club have been unable to trace.

The reunion, which will take place between 12.30 and 5pm in West Row’s splendid Village Hall, will be an ideal opportunity for members past and present to get together and reminisce about Club life and their cycling experiences.

After its incredibly successful reunions in 2003 and 2008, the Club are keen to continue and foster the high regard that Mildenhall Cycling Club is held within.

Mildenhall Cycling Club Chairman Mark Burchett says, “It is very interesting and gratifying to think that so many ex-members still have a special affinity with and for Mildenhall Cycling Club. The Club’s committee feel it is important to do all we can for that to continue. Like the mini-reunion we held five years ago, it will be a very informal affair. The main thing is to provide a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can meet up and just have a good catch-up.”

“There will also be a display of club memorabilia not seen before, which is sure to be a talking point.” he added.

The Mildenhall club caters for all cyclists of all ages and abilities and has it own purpose built clubroom in Wamil Way, Mildenhall. They meet there every Monday evening from 8.15pm, except Bank-Holidays. Since the success of the GB cycling team in Beijing and especially in the London Olympics last year the Club has since seen a welcome upsurge in interest in cycling and now have over 100 members, the highest it has been since the late 1960’s and early 1970’s.

Anybody ever connected with Mildenhall Cycling Club, is very welcome still to attend the Reunion. For more details, or, for tickets priced at £7.00 for Adults and £4.00 for children aged 5 to 15 all the details are on the clubs website is www.mildenhallcc.org.uk. Alternatively, Mark Burchett can be contacted on 01842 890721 (evenings) or by email to info@mildenhallcc.org.uk.

END.

17th June 2013

Elveden Road Race - Round 4

Tom Neale (Spalding CC) went one better in the latest round of the Elveden Road Race series and tasted victory in the main event for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Category riders.

This was also the last race of the day and whilst the quantity was down on the previous three rounds, the quality was most definitely there. It provided a fitting finale for an outstanding days racing on the new and exciting circuit being used on the Elveden Estate of Lord Iveagh for the first time this year.

Glyndwr Thomas (VC Norwich) and Hugo Robinson (Ipswich BC) attacked after just two-laps and stayed away for two laps until they were joined by Malcolm Smith (St Ives CC) and Richard Dunnett (Private Member) who had jumped away from the uninterested bunch.  

It looked as though these four, working very well together, would stay away for the remainder of the 12-lap race. However and surprisingly, they were later joined by a group of four riders that included the eventual winner Neale. He was accompanied by Jamie Caldwell (MG-Maxifuel Pro Cycling), Phillip Hetzel Ipswich BC and Lee Desborough St Ives CC.

Although there were eight riders in the breakaway group, they had to be on their guard as the main bunch were less than two-minutes behind and there are parts of the course where it’s possible to see across the open arable fields for the riders to each other.

In the end they weren’t able to haul back in the leading bunch and on the uphill finish Neale out-smarted the breakaway group to take the victory by just one second. Elite rider Caldwell won the sprint for second place ahead of Thomas, Desborough and Robinson respectively, who were all credited with the same time.

In the closing stages three riders, John McClelland (Prestege VC), Rob Muzio (Braintree Velo Cycle Racing Club) and Ross Fawcett (Ipswich BC) had launched an attack from the main bunch to contest the minor placing’s and although they did cut the deficit to the leaders, they were still one minute 46 seconds back. The remaining riders finished a further one minute 16 seconds behind them, just over three minutes behind Neale.

In the previous round Neale had finished second to Joishua Green (Glendene CC) where he just lost out in the bunch sprint on the line, with the first three finishers all given the same time!

After the excitement and euphoria surrounding Laura and Emma Trott’s appearance in round three, the women’s race didn’t quite live up to the same high standards. In the early stages all the riders stayed together, but local girl Tanya Griffiths riding for Ipswich BC, took a leaf out of Laura Trott’s book and made a lone break. While not as spectacular as Trott’s, she still finished over a minute ahead of her nearest rival, Beth Coley (VC Norwich) who won the sprint for the line from Susan Freeburn (WyndyMilla) and Jennifer Lake (Squadra Donne - Shutt VR).

The excitement in the first race of the day, for 4th Category riders, came not at the front of the race but as the back markers crossed the finishing line. John Bradbury (Boxford Bike Club), George Alexander (Newdales Cycles RT) and Chris Errington (Autostrasse Porsche RT) were racing for nothing other than pride for 59th to 61st places and having just sprinted for the line as the first two eased up, Errington misjudged the space and clipped them bringing him down.  Other than bruised pride and a broken collar bone, the Autostrasse Porsche rider has lived to tell the tale!

In the Youth’s A & B race, Frank Longstaff (Colchester Rovers CC) won the sprint for the line ahead of George Sewell (Braintree Velo Cycle Racing Club), William Mapus-Smith (West Suffolk Wheelers & Triathlon) and Chris Jackson (Strada Sport), who were all given the same time!

The next and last round of this exciting series of racing takes place on Saturday 28th June 2013.

Complete results listing and photographs from the event can be found at www.elvedenraces.com.

Complete results listing from the event can be found at www.elvedenraces.com.

Use these links to view the photographs

4th Cats

Women's

Youths

2/3/4th Cats

END.

Notes to editor:

  • Issued by Mark Burchett (Mildenhall CC) on behalf of LCCRL. 07889 441704, mark@burchett.org.uk
  • Ken Joliffe: Lotus Cars Cycle Race League. 07775 615360, kenjolliffe@mypostoffice.co.uk
  • Frances Armstrong: Marketing & PR Manager, Elveden Farms Ltd. 01842 898055, www.elveden.com
  • The Elveden Estate is the UK’s largest lowland arable farm in a single land area, covering 22,500 acres on the Suffolk-Norfolk border, including over 10,000 acres of farmland.
12th June 2013

Members enjoy morning tea & cakes!

Nearly twenty members met at the Newmarket Road Park & Ride in Cambridge for a leisurely ride along cycle paths through Cambridge to Grantchester, where they made the most of the cakes on offer at the Orchard Tea-Rooms.

Here they all are before setting off.

Mildenhall CC Members

9th June 2013

Members get to see Olympic venue!

Hadleigh FarmHadleigh FarmMildenhall Cycling Club members Ann Williamson and Wendy Dorling got a sneak view of the 2012 Olympic Mountain Bike venue before it opens to the public later in the year.

Ann said afterwards " Wendy and I went on a days mountain bike training on Sunday at Hadleigh Farm in Essex. It was a brilliant day. We were taken around the Olympic course in the afternoon and to say it was challenging is a huge understatement."

She added, "You have to be crazy to want to do this", referring to the view in the image on the right.

26th May 2013

Mildenhall CC 60 years old!

Mildenhall Cycling ClubIt is 60 years ago next month (June) that Mildenhall Cycling Club were formed and they will be holding a reunion next month (June) to celebrate its 60th year. Click here to view more details.

The reunion, which will take place between 12.30 and 5pm in the West Row Village Hall on Sunday 23rd June 2013, will be an ideal opportunity for members past and present to get to together and reminisce about Club life and their cycling experiences.

After its incredibly successful reunions in 2003 and 2008, the Club are keen to continue and foster the high regard that Mildenhall Cycling Club is held within.

Mildenhall Cycling Club Chairman Mark Burchett says, “Like the mini-reunion we held five years ago, it will be a very informal affair, unlike our big 50th year reunion in 2003. The main thing is to provide a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can meet and just have a good catch-up. It’s very clear from the previous reunions that many people have a special affinity with and for Mildenhall Cycling Club and the Club’s committee feel it is important to do all we can for that to continue.”

“We’ve already had ex-members like Roger Carradus from Portsmouth, a member from the 1970’s and who still cycles, as well as one of the founding members Donny Clark, who lives in Australia, already confirm they are coming,”

“There will also be a display of club memorabilia not seen before, that is sure to be a talking point. If anyone has anything that they would like to loan for this, we would love to hear from them”, he added.

The Mildenhall club caters for all cyclists of all ages and abilities and has it own purpose built clubroom in Wamil Way, Mildenhall. They meet there every Monday evening from 8.15pm, except Bank-Holidays. Since the success of the GB cycling team in Beijing and especially in the London Olympics last year the Club has since seen a welcome upsurge in interest in cycling and now have over 100 members, the highest it has been since the late 1960’s and early 1970’s.

Anybody ever connected with Mildenhall Cycling Club, is very welcome to attend the Reunion. For more details, or, for tickets priced at £7.00 for Adults and £4.00 for children aged 5 to 15 all the details are on the clubs website is www.mildenhallcc.org.uk. Alternatively, Mark Burchett can be contacted on 01842 890721 (evenings) or by email to info@mildenhallcc.org.uk.

25th May 2013

Members ride their first Sportive

Haverhill SportiveThe Robb family rode their first Sportive in Haverhill last Sunday doing the 50km ride. The ride was through the rolling landscape of Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex.

Dad David, said afterwards "To begin with we (Judith, Alexander and Francis ) battled a strong head wind which slowed us considerably but the further we got in to the ride, it eased thankfully. "

"Alexander and Francis coped well with the large hill just outside of Finchingfield, quite a climb for their small legs."

"Once over we had a tail wind for a sprightly run back to Haverhill and to discover that we had done nearly 60km (35 miles). With a what we thought was a creditable time of 3.5 hours Alexander and Francis felt justifiably proud of themselves and can't wait to try their next sportive."

17th May 2013

Trott runs away with Elveden Road Race

Double Olympic and World Champion Laura Trott OBE, did not fail to impress in her appearances in the Elveden Road Races.

In the women’s race, where she lined up alongside her sister Emma who rides for the Dutch Women’s Pro team Boels-Dolmans, she produced a technically perfect ride that was captivating to watch.

Having stayed in the leading bunch for the first lap before she made her move, she then spent the rest of the ten-race out on her own. At a metronomic rate she produced near identical lap times averaging 9 minutes 22 seconds on the smooth tarmac roads of Lord Iveagh’s Elveden Estate.
Only on the last lap did she, not surprisingly, afford herself the luxury of slowing down marginally, before finishing 5 minutes 8 seconds ahead of Siobhan McNamara (DID)

The Wiggle Honda rider said “I regretted going so early as it was hard out there on your own, there was a massive head wind in places.”
“I had hoped Emma would have come with me, but none of the other girls in that leading group were used to working together and there was no way she was going to do it on her own”

While McNamara won the bunch sprint for second place, Emma Trott came in at the back of that group to finish in seventh place.

The Trott sisters then competed in the main senior event for 2nd, 3rd and 4th Category riders and although it was no walk in the park for them they were both in contention for much of the 30 mile race. Sadly heavy rain and strengthening winds from the second lap onwards made it hard going for everyone.

Several riders attempted to break away, but none succeeded so it came down to terrific bunch sprint with just six seconds separating the top seven finishers. Joishua Green (Glendene CC) just got it on the line ahead of Tom Neale (Spalding CC) and Jonathan Shuster (Team Corley Cycles), who were all given the same time!

Although the weather took its toll on Emma, Laura Trott finished in 26th place, just one minute 37 seconds behind Green, but then she had already cruised to victory in the 32 mile Women’s race!

It was very refreshing that in between both of these races, the darling of the GB National track squad, happily signed autographs and posed for pictures. This is an area, unlike top professionals in other sports she revealed “I really enjoy dealing with people and its important that I don’t disappoint them”

Whereas Victoria Pendleton MBE, a Golden Life Member of Mildenhall Cycling Club, was her role model as she developed in the sport, she readily accepts that the mantle has passed to her but she remains very grounded and in touch with everyday cyclists, which can only help cycling become even more popular.

In the Youth A race (Under 16’s) Tom Yiancou (Neon=velo.com) held his nerve to win the 15-rider sprint for the line, ahead of Lee Valley Youth Cycling Club team-mates Lewis Bully and Callum O’Hara. Just three seconds separated the next 12 riders, after their seven laps of the three and half mile circuit.

While in the Youth B race over the shorter distance of five laps, Timothy Torrie (Chelmer CC) had a far more comfortable victory, finishing 2 minutes 39 seconds ahead of his closest rival, Matthew Ellis (Spalding CC).

The first race of the day was for the 4th Category riders with Ross Fawcett (Ipswich BC) and Gavin Barron (Iceni Velo) working well together to forge themselves a lead ahead of the bunch. As they approached the finishing line, Fawcett made his move with 200 yards to go and Barron was unable to respond losing out by five seconds.

Afterwards organiser Ken Jolliffe said “I feel tired but elated that the day went so well. In the Women’s race Laura showed just what a class act she is”
The events at Elveden are going from strength to strength and for the third in the five event series, they had a record entry of 326, which included 64 youth riders.

Complete results listing from the event can be found at www.elvedenraces.com.

Use these links to view the photographs

4th Cats

Women's

Youths

2/3/4th Cats

12th May 2013

Mildenhall schoolboy experiences Olympic Mountain Bike course

Fifteen year old Jake Towler, who attends King Edward Upper school in Bury St Edmunds, had the privalege of being one of the first lcoal riders to experience the Olympic Mountain Bike course at Hadleigh Farm, Essex.

For some picstures from the training day follow this link https://picasaweb.google.com/104992403675793576424/MSGAspire1HadleighWood#

1st May 2013

Rally now taking camping bookings

Mildenhall Cycling Club are now taking bookings for the camping pitches at this year’s Mildenhall Cycling Rally.

The cycling festival will, as usual, take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend (Saturday 24th – Monday 26th August 2013) at the Sheldrick Way site of Mildenhall College, whose playing fields become a temporary campsite for around 400 caravan and camping pitches.

“Such is the popularity of this event, the campsite fills up weeks before the Rally, so we would encourage anyone wanting to stay on the Rally site, to book early to avoid any disappointment.” said Mark Burchett, Chairman of the organising Club.

As well being able to download the booking forms from www.mildenhallrally.org.uk the site also provides online booking facilities making the whole process much easier and quicker. For those that prefer a bit more comfort, the Mildenhall Club will once again be providing a list of local B&B’s, guest-houses and hotels.

It was revealed in a survey conducted by Mildenhall Cycling Club and Forest Heath District Council at last year’s Rally, that nearly a quarter of a million pounds is put into the local economy every year by the nationally acclaimed event. A significant proportion of that is benefiting those providing accommodation as well as food, which like the Rally’s campsite, are very sought after too.

The survey showed that the average total-spend was £104.75, whilst the average spend per person was £48.91. The actual amount spent per respondent ranged from nothing up to £2,100. Based on a conservative estimate of the total number of visitors of 5,000, this equates to £244,550!

The Rally isn’t expected to see any major changes to the tried and tested line-up of events over the three days, with the grass-track forming the centrepiece, with events everyday from 12 noon. The highlight of these this year will be the National Ladies 800m Championship. Other competitive events will include a Madison Cyclo-Cross and especially for the under 17’s there will be the ever-popular Children’s Duathlon and for the under 16’s the Go-Ride Skilful Riding.

On the touring front, C.T.C. (Cyclists Touring Club) Suffolk will be organising 50, 100, 200 and 300km Audax Rides on the Saturday. For those that want something more relaxing, Mildenhall Cycling Club will have their range of touring leaflets, offering a variety of scenery of varying distances.

Other attractions will include the ever-popular Cycle Jumble and Quiz Night. Like the camping, booking for the Jumble sells out before the event and can also be made online.

The Mildenhall Cycling Rally attracts in excess of 5,000 people from across the UK who descend upon Mildenhall over the August Bank Holiday weekend. What the visitor survey also confirmed was that quite a number return to the area at other times, so the resulting impact of the Rally is felt throughout the year.

From Mildenhall Cycling Club’s point of view, it confirmed that they have a winning formula, with 100% of those surveyed, saying they were enjoying the event. Of those only two didn’t feel the event was well organised.

It also confirmed something the organisers continually aim for, that the Rally is a fun event held in a safe environment for families. The youngest person surveyed was 17, whilst the oldest 84, who cited ‘cycling and view of the grass-track’, ‘atmosphere and ‘meeting with family & friends’, ‘family event’, ‘children’s activities’ and the ‘trade stands’ as the best thing about the event.

“The trade stands at the Rally’s two-day Trade Show provide everybody, but especially local people, the opportunity to stock up on all those cycling spares, as well as look at replacement wheels to complete bikes and all at discounted prices on their doorstep” explained Mark Burchett.

The Trade Show is open Sunday and Monday, with free entry.

Every day there will be the Children’s Sports, while on the Sunday and Monday there will be the bouncy castle and face painter, both free of charge. Additionally on the Sunday there will be a circus skills-workshop and on the Monday, Adam Strange will be there with his Magic and Puppet Shows and again, both are free of charge.

The Rally is a very popular event with top riders that have then gone on to win National and International recognition. Riders such as Olympic champions Victoria Pendleton CBE and Nicole Cooke OBE who honed their bike handling skills on Mildenhall’s grass-track have now retired, whilst more recently Laura Trott was a regular at the Rally, until she shot to prominence 3 years ago at the Commonwealth Games before taking the London Olympics by storm in 2012. Trott can be seen in action locally again, when she takes part in round 3 of the Elveden Road-Race series on Saturday 11th May 2013.

More details of everything happening at the Rally can be found at www.mildenhallrally.org.uk
28th April 2013

Mildenhall members in action at Elveden
Mildenhall Cycling Club were well represented again in the second Elveden Road-Race held at the weekend. And despite Club Chairman and usual photographer, Mark Burchett unable to attend the event through illness, members exploits were still captured on camera, courtesy of Paul Flack. Click here for the images.
8th April 2013

Mildenhall hit the boards in numbers!

One of the biggest, if not the biggest group to represent the Club in anything, traveled to the Wales National Velodrome on Sunday.

For many of the group, it was not only their first time to the 250m indoor track in Newport, but their very first time riding on a banked velodrome track!

It was fantastic to see so many members in club colours, take the plunge. For a flavour of the day click here to see a few images of our time on the track and thanks to my glamorous assistant Karen!

Mark Burchett

26th March 2013

Rain fails to dampen the First Elveden Road Race!

In spite of the overwhelming rain the inaugural race of the Elveden Road Race series was an undoubted success, even with the riders who had to endure the dire conditions!

Stuart Pryce (Strada Sport) beat Felix Barker (St Ives CC) in the uphill sprint for the line at the end of a punishing 42 miles in main race of the day for the Elite, 1st, 2nd and 3rd category riders.

The 34 year-old was one of the main protagonist’s and never far from the front of the 12-lap race. Along with Barker and Malcolm Smith (St Ives CC) the three emerged from two small groups that had broken away from the bunch and worked well together to steadily increase their lead lap-by-lap.

In the separate race for just the 3rd Cat riders, Pryce’s teammate Dieter Rower was victorious ahead of Lee Sturman (West Suffolk Wheelers & Triathlon Club) over the shorter distance of 25 miles.

These senior races provided a fitting end to an outstanding days racing on a new venue in the heart of the Elveden Estate on private roads of Lord Iveagh’s estate on the Norfolk/Suffolk border. Set in a mixture of mature woodland and arable farmland and completely hidden from public roads and buildings it provided an entirely new concept in closed circuit racing on an almost flawless asphalt finish.

The day had begun with the 4th category race, with just under 100 riders lining up to tackle the 25-miles! Thomas Ward (Giant Radlett) emerged as the winner after the 7 laps, ahead of Darren Rutterford (Iceni Velo) and James Hockridge (Colchester Rovers).

The Women’s race was no less hotly contested with Hannah Barnes riding for the Women’s pro-team at MG Maxifuel ProCycling, sprinting away from the leading bunch on the uphill drag to finish 10 bike- lengths clear. And it was her younger sister Alice (Scott Contessa) who won the bunch sprint, ahead of Tanya Griffiths (Ipswich BC) to claim the runners-up spot.

They may have been under 16 or 14 in the two Youth races, but they looked to emulate the more experienced riders in the senior events. Daniel Tulett  (Hargroves Cycles RT) was first in the Youth A race for the Under 16’s, with Sophia Chastell (Welwyn Wheelers) the first girl finisher.
Adam Botteley, who was part of a large contingent from Bourne Wheelers, was the winner in the Youth B race for Under 14’s, with Rachel Jary (VC Londres) finishing third to claim the first girl prize.

A drenched race organiser Ken Jolliffe said afterwards “It was an impressive day of sport for all abilities, gender and ages. Every race was a battle against each other and the elements with a worthy winner to every race. It was enjoyed by all, competitors and spectators alike.”

The rain was constantly there, but as one of the riders’ Mums said afterwards “ We’re happy but dirty!”

The events on Saturday could not have gone ahead without the support before and on the day from Elveden Estate staff, who also provided the catering.

The second round of the five-race series will be held on Saturday 6th April 2013, with more details available on http://elvedencycleraces.com

RESULTS:

Race 1 - 4th Cats

  1. Thomas Ward - Giant Radlett
  2. Darren Rutterford - Iceni Velo
  3. James Hockridge - Colchester Rovers
  4. Elliot Lawrence - University of East Anglia CC
  5. Anthony Purnell - Cambridge CC
  6. Martin Page - Ipswich BC
  7. William Scott - Bonito Squadra Course
  8. Thomas Andrews - Ilkley Cycling Club
  9. David Catchpole - Colchester Rovers
  10. Thomas Gillingwater - Strada Sport
Race 2 - Women
  1. Hannah Barnes - MG Maxifuel ProCycling
  2. Alice Barnes - Scott Contessa
  3. Tanya Griffiths - Ipswich BC
  4. Susan Freeborn - In Gear Quickvit Trainsharp RT
  5. Emily Barnes - Condor Cycles
  6. Aimee Wright - High Wycombe CC
  7. Siobhan McNamara - Look Mum No Hands RT
  8. Alexie Shaw - Les Filles RT
  9. Bryony Board - Glendene CC
  10. Hayley Simmonds - GBcycles.co.uk 
Race 3a - U16
  1. Daniel Tulett - Hargroves Cycles RT
  2. Tom Yiangoud
  3. David Barnes - Condor Cycles
  4. Thomas Bicknell - ProCycleHire UK RT
  5. James Tapley - Lee Valley Youth Cycling Club
  6. Jordan Mooney - Welwyn Wheelers
  7. Daniel Maynard - Welwyn Wheelers
  8. Oliver Swallow - Braintree Velo Cycle Racing Club
  9. Adam Looker - Colchester Rovers CC
  10. Robert Gray - Clifton CC
Girls
  1. Clover Murray - Braintree Velo Cycle Racing Club 
  2. Sophia Chastell - Welwyn Wheelers
  3. Rebecca Maynard - Welwyn Wheelers
Race 3b - U14
  1. Adam Botteley - Bourne Wheelers
  2. Dougal Toms - Iceni Velo
  3. Rachel Jary - VC Londres (1st girl)
  4. Zak Coleman - Inverse / Cycle Components
  5. Matthew Baker - Gt Yarmouth CC
  6. Michael Parry - Welwyn Wheelers
  7. Ben Tulett - Hargroves Cycles RT
  8. Callum Bulley - Lee Valley Youth Cycling Club
  9. Matthew Ellis - Spalding CC
  10. Sophie Wright - Gt Yarmouth CC (2nd girl)
  11. Matthew Shepherd - Lee Valley Youth Cycling Club
  12. Simon Bird
3rd girl
  1. Sophie Holmes - Inverse/Cycling Components RT
Race 4a - E/1/2/3
  1. Stuart Pryce - Strada Sport
  2. Felix Barker - St Ives CC
  3. Malcolm Smith - St Ives CC
  4. Chris Guy - Iceni Velo
  5. Adam French - Rapha Condor Cycling Club
  6. Graham Collins - Ipswich BC
  7. Mike Smith - Colchester Rovers
  8. Nick Esser - Strada Sport
  9. Lloyd Chapman - Glendene CC
  10. Patrick Schils - Velo Schils Interbike RT
Race 4b - 3rd Cats
  1. Dieter Rowe - Strada Sport
  2. Lee Sturman - West Suffolk Wheelers & Triathlon Club
  3. Mark Botteley - Bourne Wheelers
  4. Ken Roesner - Wisbech Wheelers
  5. Jack Jeffery - Lee Valley Velo
  6. Dale Johnston - VC Norwich
  7. Christopher Bulley - Lee Valley Velo
  8. Ollie Edwards - VC Revolution
  9. Richard Carrington - Mildenhall CC
  10. Matthew Wing - Strada Sport
10th March 2013

New Era for Road Race scene

A new era in the Eastern cycle road-racing scene could be dawning this weekend!

The first in a series of five events of the Elveden Road Races takes place on the private roads of Lord Iveagh’s estate and has attracted a bumper entry of over 260 riders.

This exciting opportunity came about after Lord Iveagh approached cycling’s governing body, British Cycling, offering access to a 5km (3.5 miles) tarmac circuit in the heart of the Estate for a series of early season road racing events running from March to the end of June.

After much ground work by Ken Joliffe and the staff at Elveden everything is in place for tomorrow’s first event (Saturday 9th March). Mr Joliffe who already organises the highly successful Lotus Cars Cycle Race League has also had help from Bishops Stortford CC, Mildenhall CC and West Suffolk Wheelers and Triathlon Club, who all recognise the fantastic potential that the unique setting of Elveden could bring cycling in East Anglia.

Lord Iveagh has said "I am delighted to see the level of interest in the Elveden cycle races. Opening up the farm gates for this activity means cyclists have a realistic road-style surface to practice on, which I hope will go some way towards helping to develop the road racing skills of cyclists in this region."

If the 2013 Elveden Road-Race series is a success it could pave the way for an annual series, which will be such a boost to cycling in the eastern region.

Sara Flatt, East Anglia's regional events officer for British Cycling, explains, "Sitting on three county boundaries - Cambridge, Norfolk and Suffolk - and with good road links to all parts of the Eastern Region, this venue is a huge asset to the existing circuit racing calendar, opening up possibilities for significant development in youth and women's racing as well as adding variety to the existing racing programme."

The feel of the circuit is unique in road and circuit racing terms. Set in a mixture of mature woodland and arable farmland and completely hidden from public roads and buildings it offers an entirely new concept in closed circuit racing - the feel of a road race with the accessibility and flexibility of circuit racing.

The quality of the Estate roads is something that cyclists can only normally dream about! It’s an almost flawless asphalt finish, with a width of between 3 - 5 metres. Roughly square in shape but with a variety of corners and some changes in gradient it offers sufficient interest and challenges to deliver top quality racing.

Mr Joliffe said, “This circuit is a real gem, in that it is a real but short road circuit without the traffic. We want Elveden to be thought of as something special, something more than just another race. The circuit and the setting are certainly very unique and so will the catering.”

The catering will be provided by the Elveden Estate and as a farm producing potatoes they are keen to promote the spud as a first rate source of carbohydrates, with a range of toppings to cater for most tastes. They’ll be designed by the estate’s executive chef Peter McBurnie, a veteran development chef and ex-head chef of a five star hotel, Claridges of Mayfair, London.

The events have attracted riders from as far North as Leeds, as far South as Sevenoaks & Tonbridge in Kent and as far West as Honiton in Devon. There is also a strong contingent of local riders.

Representing Mildenhall CC will be Alan Towler (4th Cat), Marc Bowers (4th Cat reserve), Richard Carrington (3rd Cat), Under 16’s Jake Towler, Calum Mitchell-Fuller, Adam Gough and Under 14 Owen Goode. Riding in West Suffolk Wheelers colours will be 4th Cat’s Albert Townley, James Asker, Matthew Eaglen, Stuart Grand, Thomas Mills, Ben Stephens, Richard Stiff & Jeremy Waterson; 3rd Cat’s Richard Farrow & Lee Sturman; Under 16’s Robert Lines & William Mapus-Smith and Under 14’s Matthew Asker & Rhys Holland-Jones.

Entry and parking for spectators is free with a day’s racing on offer. Access to the Elveden Estate only available at Mattins Lodge, off the A1065, Brandon Road, Lakenheath Airbase, Eriswell, Suffolk, IP27 9BS.

The first race will be the 4th Category riders starting at 10.00am, which has a full field of 100 riders contesting the 25 mile race. The Women’s race off at 11.20am is also over 25 miles (7 laps), as is the Under 16’s which starts at 12.45pm. Starting two minutes after them will be the Under 14’s race that will cover 17 miles.

The most hotly contested event is expected to be the top riders who begin their 42 mile race (12 laps) at 2.30pm. Just a minute after they head out, the 3rd Category riders will start their 25 mile race.

More information about the Elveden Road-Races can be found on http://elvedencycleraces.com.

The Elveden Estate organise the Tear Jerker Triathlon on 26 May 2013, which involves a 750m swim in the Elveden reservoir, followed by 25km cycle ride on farm and forest tracks, finishing with a 5km run on a rough course of forest and heathland. It takes its name from the gruelling nature of the challenge, combined with Elveden’s reputation as a leading UK onion grower.

4th March 2013

Tear Jerker

The Elveden Estate have announced details of their Tear Jerker that takes place on 26th May 2013.

Held entirely within the estate on private roads and tracks, it offers 750m swin,25km cycle and 5km run.

For more details >> click here

8th February 2013

Snow Cyclo-Cross

The 14th and final round of the Eastern Cyclo-Cross League took place at the King Edward VI school in Bury St Edmunds. It was snowy and icy but four Mildenhall members turned out & did their best in the cold conditions. In the U12s, regular competitors Colin Mantle (below left) and Josh Murad (below middle) wwere joined by young Francis Robb in only his 2nd 'cross event.

Snow Cyclo-CrossSnow Cyclo-CrossSnow Cyclo-Cross
Pictures (middle & right) contributed by Fergus Muir

The course included a steep & slippery climb which nearly all the riders had to walk, and plenty of icy bends where the snow had frozen. Colin caught & passed several riders who normally finish ahead of him, crossing the line in 7th place after 4 laps. Teammate Josh wasn't too far behind in 9th, and 7-year-old Francis soldiered on to finish 25th with a fast final lap.

Matthew Mantle rode a steady race to finish 30th in the Elite Vets/Seniors/Juniors, enjoying the slippery conditions which favoured bike handling more than power.

The final league member standings based on the best 8 results were as follows:

Club - Mildenhall CC 18th out of 24 - not bad with only 5 counting results! Club points are only awarded if 3 or more league members race at each event.
U12s - Colin came 12th & Josh came 29th despite only doing the last 5 events - good training for next season...
Youth - Adam Gough did one event & came 49th.
Women - Diane Mantle did one event & came 19th.
Elite Vets - Matthew finished 21st.

The series is becoming ever more popular (there were 80+ riders in the Senior/Elite Vet/Junior race at one event!), but the racing is good-natured & the courses are challenging & fun. More club 'representatives' would be most welcome!

Matthew Mantle

4th February 2013

Suspicious Characters?

News has just broken that four Father Christmas' seen around Mildenhall on Christmas Day, are allegedly members of Mildenhall Cycling Club. A spokesperson for the Club has said "the cycles that these colourful characters are stood astride, do look very familiar" but they declined to go into more detail.

Suspicious Characters?

28th January 2013

It's snow joke!

One of our younger members made the most of the wintry weather this week!

It's Snow Joke

 

16th January 2013

Club Casual Clothing
We will be placing an order for casual club clothing that will be embroidered with the club name & logo on the chest. These are ideal for social events, pre & post ride and when representing the club.   
     

Polo Shirt

£16.80

Polo Shirt

  • Unique double yarn pique provides an exceptionally soft hand feel and increased shape retention.
  • Fashion knit collar.
  • Two button placket with self-coloured buttons.
  • Superb performance after repeated washing and wearing.
  • Neck tape for wearer comfort and durability.
  • Classic style flat knit cuffs
  • Spare button in side seam
  • Reinforced shoulder seams
  • Twin needle hem at bottom for added stability.
  • Also available in
    ladies' sizes, code 539F
    children's sizes, code 539B

Hoodies

£24.00

Hoodies

  • Heavyweight hoodie.
  • Three panel double fabric hood.
  • Twin needle stitching detail.
  • Double fabric hood with coloured cord.
  • Kangaroo pouch pocket.
  • Hidden MP3/phone pocket inside kangaroo.
  • Pouch pocket with small opening for ear phone cord feed.
  • Hidden ear phone loops.
  • Ribbed cuff and hem.

Fleeces

£19.20

Fleeces

  • Anti pilling
  • Athletic cut/stretchy fit
  • Full front zip fastening
  • 2 large front pockets with stitched outline feature
  • Elasticated cuffs
  • Adjustable shockcord hem
  • Suitability: Sport, Hiking, Hill Walking,Leisure, Travel, Workwear
  • Decoration process: Embroidery, Flock Transfer
  • Also available in
    children's sizes, code R36JY

Shell Jackets 

£32.00

Shell Jackets

  • 3 layer bonded softshell fabric
  • 92% Polyester / 8% Elastane outer with anti-pill microfleece inner
  • Wind and waterproof fabric
  • Velcro wrist adjusters
  • Two front pockets with zips
  • Soft touch contrast neck protector (self colour on black)
  • Also available in
    ladies sizes, code SG43F
    children's sizes, code SG43K
Royal blue is the primary garment colour, although other colours available. For more details, information about sizes and to place an order, please email Richard Carrington.
13th January 2013

Club Racing Clothing

Having seen how good the quality is of the garments produced by Scimitar Sports, we will be placing our next order for Club Racing Clothing with them. They produced the You-See-Eye Championship Jersey’s for the Rally.

Click here for Scimitar’s sizing guide.

Click here for the Price list.

If you have any queries at all, please contact Mandy for more details. She would like to place an order by 31st October 2012.

The committee will be meeting on 8th October and the main item on the agenda will be casual club clothing. If you have any ideas on what sort of casual garment you'd like to see the Club have, please let Mandy know. As soon as a decision is made as to the choice we will let you know what they are and how much they will cost.

26th September 2012

Membership Signing-On Night

Next Monday (1st October 2012) members are being encouraged to come to the clubroom to renew their Club Membership for another year. At the recent AGM it was agreed, in the current climate, to not increase membership fee's so being a member of the Mildenhall Club now offers even more value.

Mildenhall CC are one of only a handful of cycling club's in the eastern region to not only have their own purpose built club-room, but one that's been extended twice to accommodate a growing membership and house much of the equipment needed in running the very successful Mildenhall Cycling Rally.

All existing members should have received a renewal form, pre-printed with their details, this week.

Click here to download the Entry Form Refund claim form.

Click here to download the Trophy Claim form.

23rd September 2012

Honorary Member Ernie Robinson Passes Away

Mildenhall Cycling Club are saddened to learn that Ernie Robinson has passed away after a short illness.

He was made an Honorary member of the Suffolk Club in 2000 and even though traffic levels had increased tremendously Ernie continued to cycle to Mildenhall from his Thetford home along the very busy A11 until age caught up with him. But he continued to take an active interest in the Club and it's annual Mildenhall Cycling Rally and still was able to drive himself to this year's event, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

His wife had died earlier this year after a long illness.

15th September 2012

Chairman's tribute to Alan Thompson

Over 70 friends and family as well as members of Mildenhall Cycling Club turned out to pay their respects to Alan Thompson, who until his death on the 28th August 2012 had been President of the Suffolk Club.

In a celebration of his life, it was very fitting that members of Mildenhall CC wore their club colours to the service held at the Crematorium in Risby. As part of the celebration, Club Chairman Mark Burchett, paid this tribute to the man affectionately known as 'Thomo'

"There aren’t many people in life that leave a lasting legacy, but Alan, or Thomo as he was always affectionately known, definitely has, its Mildenhall Cycling Club.

He was one of a group of teenagers that in the post war years began cycling, from which Mildenhall & District Cycling Club was born in 1953. Having done his National Service in the RAF, when he returned home, the Club was in danger of folding and he set about making sure that did not happen.

Plus there are quite a few of us that wouldn’t be here today if it hadn’t of been for Alan. Like Ian Poole, who he got into cycling and myself, who he recruited to the Club. He used Morley’s Cycle Centre that he ran in Mildenhall, as a great recruitment vehicle for our Club.

Alan came from a generation that experienced hard times during and after the Second World War as he was growing up and didn’t have many luxuries in life, although to him cycling was.  Mind you he never could quite understand why Deane & Martin Hill and myself, as teenagers, we would strap portable radios to our handlebars when out cycling. He would always recall this whenever we met, even over 35 years on and I can still hear him saying “you always had those blessed radios blaring out …” with that infectious smile of his.

Having been instrumental in forming the Club, then saving it, it was only fitting that as he took a back seat in the day to day running of the Club, he became our President, succeeding his long-time friend Dave Bowers. But he wasn’t just a figurehead, it was a position he took seriously and took great delight and pride wearing his blazer, emblazoned with the Club logo, whether he was at the Annual Dinner, club events or the Mildenhall Cycling Rally.

In the latter years of his life as his health deteriorated, we may not have seen much of him about the Club or the Rally, but he was no less interested in what was happening. He always wanted to know what everyone was up to. Like so many that join Mildenhall, there is then only ever one Club for them.

That includes club stalwarts Dave & Viv Bowers and Harvey & Julie Wright, who due to unforeseen circumstances aren’t able to be with us today and probably as we’re paying our respects to Alan here, are cycling in Holland with Honorary Members Jim & Vera Staines. I think Alan would see the funny side of that!

When I became chairman of our great Club last year, I was deeply touched when he said to me that he knew the Club was in safe hands, although in truth, it’s only in safe hands due to the committed group of people we are lucky enough to have at Mildenhall. But and this is the reason for mentioning that, it just showed how much he still deeply cared for Mildenhall Cycling Club".

Mark Burchett

11th September 2012

Younger members proudly display their Mildenhall colours at the Rally

The host club were well represented at this year's Mildenhall Cycling Rally by members and especially the younger ones, competing in most of the events.

James Carrington was the youngest member racing and should be proud of his 10th place in the 6-7 years age group in the Children’s Duathlon. He also took part in the Under 9’s Cyclo-Cross race and again is to be congratulated on his 13th place. James’s cousin, Lucia Carrington was 13th in the next age group upwards (8-9 years) in the Children’s Duathlon.

Mildenhall Juvenile membersColin Mantle finished 7th in the Juvenile Omnium on the grass-track for Category D for riders aged Under 10. In the Children’s Duathlon he was 7th fastest in the 8-9 year old age group and in the Under 12’s Cyclo-Cross he finished a very respectable 9th place.

New member Calum Mitchell-Fuller, finished 12th in the 10-13 year old age group of the Children’s Duathlon, in his first ever competitive event for the Club.

In the same age group, Josh Murad was 10th fastest. Having ridden the Duathlon for the first time, he also tried the very specialist area of Roller Racing. Despite his pre-race nerves he gradually grew in confidence and did well to finish 4th in the Juniors Omnium.

In the Under 12’s Cyclo-Cross, he finished in 8th position.


In the Under 16’s of the ‘Cross, Jack Tuffs did well to finish in 17th place.

From L to R: Josh, James, Colin, Lucia & Calum. (Missing from the picture is Jack)

31st August 2012

Club President passes away

It is with great sadness that Mildenhall Cycling Club announce that their Club President, Alan Thompson, passed away today.

The 73 year-old had been President since he succeeded Dave Bowers. Before them there were only two others to hold the position, Percy Poole and Bill Butcher, one of the guiding lights in helping Alan set up the Cycling Club in 1953.

Alan's first job was with Bill Butcher in Mildenhall, ironically as a butcher, which was the start of a long-lasting friendship. The Cycling Club struggled in those early years for members and when Alan returned in 1959 from doing his National Service in the RAF, he set about with Dave Bowers, who had recently joined, in building the Club up.

Although membership has fluctuated since then, the Club has never been in any such danger of going out of existence. Since 1977 it has had a permanent home in Wamil Way next to the Cricket Club, something else that Alan or 'Thomo' as he was affectionately known, was instrumental in achieving.

In his latter years his deteriorating health prevented him from attending Club Nights, or even any Club events, but his interest in his Club never diminished. Even when now Club Chairman Mark Burchett visited him earlier this year, he was still enthusiastically asking about what members were doing and how plans for the Club's nationally acclaimed annual Mildenhall Cycling Rally were going.

Mark Burchett

29th August 2012

Rain fails to dampen spirits at Rally

Despite a huge thunderstorm on Saturday evening the annual Mildenhall Cycling Rally still went ahead and no events had to be cancelled.

It did cause some disruption to those visiting the Rally on Saturday as it took longer to leave the farmer's field, which was being used a day car-park, but everyone seemed to accept that it was one of those things that couldn't have been planned for or avoided. However, the Mildenhall Club are extremely grateful for Tom Tuff and his son Thomas, who farm that piece of land, for using their tractors to pull out stranded vehicles late into the evening.

Apart from that none of those camping on site were affected and the Rally continued to the great delight of the thousands who attended over the Bank-holiday weekend.

For more details visit the Rally website

28th August 2012

Queen Vic - a rock chic too?!

Victoria Pendleton joined other Team GB athletes in a video created by Olympic sponsor Adidas to mark the end of the successful London 2012 Games.

In a clever piece of marketing and brand placement, the Olympic athletes tried lip-synching to Queen's 'Don't Stop Me Now'

12th August 2012

The media's view of Cycling now!

BBC Sport - Marginal Gain's and Round Wheels

BBC Sport - Hoy & Pendleton - The end of an era

12th August 2012

Queen Vic bows out with a Silver in the Women's Sprint

After the dust and euphoria had settled down, following Victoria Pendleton's defeat in the final of Olympic Women's Sprint, Mildenhall Cycling Club is immensely proud of the achievements of their Honorary Golden Member.

Mildenhall CC

For the second time within four days our clubroom was packed with members watching her every move in the London Velodrome against her arch rival, Australian Anna Mears. Everyone was elated when Victoria was awarded the first heat by one thousandth of a second after the closest of photo-finishes, then stood in astonishment when they realised she had been relegated for crossing over her racing line. They felt Victoria's heartache! And believed her action only came after Mear's had leaned into her on the final bend!

That was a physiological blow and with all the members nervously watching the second heat, it was one that she didn't recover from. Mears again allowed the Great Briton to lead out and although Victoria seemed to gain the initiative by opening up a clear gap, she hesitated allowing the Australian to get back on level terms. Mears kept going and for whatever reason there was to be no trade-mark kick from Victoria handing Mears a straight 2-nil win and an immediate sense of anti-climax hit everyone as the clubroom fell silent. After a few seconds the mood changed and everyone began applauding her!

Despite not getting the Gold medal in her favoured event, Victoria very sportingly and graciously, put her hand out to Mears.

That was Victoria's last competitive event but she leaves a wonderful legacy not only for cycling in this country, but especially for women in cycling. She has demonstrated that you can still be feminine whilst being very competitive and be the best in the world.

Victoria was made an Honorary Member on the 1st May 2005 until 6th October 2008 when in recognition of winning the Gold medal in Women's Sprint at the Beijing Olympics, she was made an Honorary Golden Member of Mildenhall Cycling Club. (She was a full member between 1989 and 2002).

For Club members, there are more pictures on our facebook site.

7th August 2012

Victoria sets new Olympic record

Mildenhall CC's Golden member Victoria Pendleton has set a new Olympic record of just 10.724 seconds for the flying lap in the qualification round in the Women's Sprint.

Click here to see her majestic ride.

5th August 2012

The Media's view of Victoria

EDF Energy - Stotfold Roots For Victoria

Sky Sports - Profile of Victoria

BBC Look East - Friday 3rd August - Early Evening programme

BBC Sport - Closing stages of the Keirin

BBC News - Scene from Mildenhall CC Clubroom

East Anglian Daily Times - Friday 3rd August

Cambridge Evening News - Friday 3rd August

Bury Free Press - Saturday 4th August

BBC News - Opposition licked by Pendleton

4th August 2012

Victorious Pendleton

After her heart-wrenching disqualification in the Women's Olympic Team Sprint yesterday, Victoria Pendleton stormed to victory in tonight's Women's Keirin to deservedly win the Gold medal.

Mildenhall members eagerly waiting the start of the Keirin

She was roared on by members of Mildenhall Cycling Club at their Wamil Way clubroom, who were rewarded with an imperious display of track riding from their 31-year-old Golden Honorary Member.

Club Chairman, Mark Burchett, said "We are extremely proud of what Victoria has achieved over her career as probably the best Woman Cyclist this country has ever produced. And even if she doesn't win Gold in the her specialist discipline of the Women's Sprint, to take the Gold medal in the Keirin is the perfect way to end her reign"

"But I'm very confident she'll produce the goods in the Sprint too! To go and win the sprint gold will be the crowing glory and to retire at that level on that note - you can't write that sort of script." he added.

For Club members, there are more pictures on our facebook site.

3rd August 2012

Honorary Member heads West!

George Wadman, who now lives in Leicestershire, triumphantly reports that he completed a cycling challenge in America, cycling 205 miles over the weekend of July 14/15.

"Just to let you know, 'we made it'. Dale (our son), Ian (our son-in-law)....the foolish duo who challenged each other, then challenged me, to do the ride....and I had a great time. "

There was no time limit and there were plenty of organised rest stops....or we could stop whenever we felt like it. We took just under 8 hours riding time each day and averaged just over 13mph.....plus a few food, puncture and good samaritan stops.

Some 10,000 riders in all kinds of physical condition and on all kinds of one, two and three wheeled 'bikes'. I guess a unicycle isn't a bike.
Is a 4 person, two wheeler, a bike? I guess it would be.

Most of the ride was on single and dual carriageway roads with a few miles of bike/pedestrian hard-top trail. Bike lanes were on most of the roads and cross roads were, mostly, police-controlled in favour of the cyclists.

Quite chuffed to have completed the ride as all of us only managed to do about 50% of the suggested preparation mileage and, after some 47 years off the bike (exception of about 75 miles in 2010 after rebuilding my bike) I was surprised it all came together.

We were all somewhat sceptical at how/if we would complete the ride at the beginning but we did it. I think that I could have survived the first day on my own but would probably have packed half way into the second day. It was important to the three of us that we had each other's support and we arrived at the finish surprisingly fresh.

1st August 2012

Cambridge Clubrun to Grantchester tea-rooms

A dozen members enjoyed a easy ride around and through Cambridge to the acclaimed Grantchester tea-rooms and back.

Despite the forecast earlier in the week, the riders were bathed in some rare summer sunshine.

And here's a few photographs from today's run.... click here

17th June 2012

Bluebell Clubrun went ahead despite the rain!

A hardy bunch of club-members travelled to Hertfordshire on Sunday with the intention of seeing some of the many bluebell woods that abound in Hertfordshire around the home of member Max Pendleton. However, the rain put paid to seeing any woods bathed in spring sunshine. But this didn't stop the group riding, albeit a shorter distance, to see one such wood before returning to Max and his partner Sandra's home to enjoy their hospitality.

And here's a few photographs as proof that they did indeed venture out into the rain .... click here

29th April 2012

     
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