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@Fixedwheelnut
I was just going to post about this :) as I got this e-mail today.
The classic CATFORD C.C. HILL CLIMB on Yorks Hill nr. Sevenoaks Kent , 11am Sunday 21st October 2007
The Oldest Cycle Race in the World still existing. It was first run on the then unmade road of Westerham Hill on August 20th 1887 and won by S.F.Edge Of the Anerley B.C. (later to join the Catford), riding a newfangled chain Driven ‘safety bicycle’. The only Old Ordinary (‘Penny Farthing’/High Bicycle) to finish came fourth and was a 54” wheel machine and therefore had A 54in gear. The lowest permitted gear was 52in. (presumably to stop the new Chain driven bicycles from having an unfair advantage, as there was a limit On the smallest size wheel that you could use on an Ordinary, due to leg Length). Three tricycles reached the top. The average weight of the Machines was about 37lbs.
The Modern Version has been held on Yorks Hill near Sevenoaks, Kent since 1939 and the event record of 1min. 47.6secs. Was set by Phil Mason (San Fairy Ann CC) in 1983. Last year’s event was won by William Bell (Gemini B.C.) in Imin. 52.3secs..
The Catford event is one of the events which form the week-end’s ‘Four Hill Climb’s Championship’. The winner of the £100 prize in 2006 was Nick Dawes (Farnborough & Camberley C.C./East St. Cycles).
COME AND WATCH the oldest hill climb in the world – See the spectacle of Riders tackling the formidable Yorks Hill which averages 12.5% but has two Lung searing stretches of 1 in 4. You’ll be surprised just how fast the country’s leading cyclists launch themselves up this brutal ascent. Blood, Sweat and tears for all the competitors! This event has always been an annual re-union for club cyclists, a once a Year opportunity to re-new old acquaintances. Why not enjoy an autumn ride Through the beautiful Weald of Kent countryside (contact us and we’ll Suggest a scenic route) to Yorks Hill and afterwards have a lunchtime pint In one of the local hostelries.
COME AND COMPETE in the oldest hill climb in the world – Over £1,450 in prizes. If the winner breaks the event record he will walk away with a total of £710 in prizes Snr. Prizes 1st to 6th.- Prize for fastest - Woman; Veteran; Junior; Mountain Biker; All-comer Every one of the 12 cash prizes is matched by clothing donated by Rapha >Team prize donated by Vaz Finishers >Every finisher will be awarded a certificate recording their time. >Entries £6 close 12th October 2007. Forms can be downloaded from http://www.cyclingtimetrials.org.uk or http://www.catfordcc.co.uk
What gear are you riding BringmemyFix ? Matt has won it on a 54" before