Nick thanked all members for their support in 2023 especially, Nigel, Mandy, Tony, Jo’, Laura, Stuart, Andy, John , Chaz & Lord Rob.
To misquote Oscar Wilde, I feel that, “Work has been the curse of the cycling classes.” as have northerly winds and persistent coughs!
Nick once more held back on awarding the controversial, Mary Decker award, for the number of events members have DNS’D in 2023, of which there were more than usual!
2023 results of note are:
Asa 25 Mile Hilly TT 1:08:30
Paul Basson 25 Mile 1:04:09, 10 Mile 24:54
Lisa Miles 10 Mile TT 29:52
Crasher
The nominations were Tom, Lee & Antonia.
Runner up Lee, managed to takeout, John & Dawn, when cycling up Huddersfield Rd. In an attempt to avoid running into Graham, Lee Toppled right into the road causing, John and Dawn to topple left onto the pavement. As way of retribution, Lee’s chain jammed on Pots and Pans and Lee was thrown from his Aluminium horse, damaging his steed and resulting in an expensive Taxi Ride to Nigel’s, bicycle operating theatre.
Last years crasher Lord Rob, was taking a photo of Antonia commencing the accent of Widdop, when Lord Rob transmitted the, “Falling with style” curse to Antonia, who promptly fell off. As this was captured, You have been framed style, as a digital file , the Winner is Antonia.
Best Young Rider
Nominations Asa, Duncan, Tony Atkinson & Stan Clough
Duncan is truly multitalented, from playing the Euphonium, to riding Cycle speedway, to coming 5th in the North West Cyclocross league and riding a speedy 26:50 10 Mile Time Trial in Hull, Duncan has achieved much in 2023 and deserves to be, Best Young Rider 2023.
Most Improved
Nominations Asa, Dave Grogan, Lee & Tony Braz’
To misquote the Riddle of the Sphinx, “What starts off in the morning using two legs, rides on one leg in the afternoon and next year rides like he has three legs?”
Answer Tony Braz’, Winner of most improved rider.
Big Ring
Nominations Dave Grogan, Pete, No Gloves, Dawson, John & Dawn
People keep asking, “What constitutes the Big Ring ?” I guess the Big Ring is about riding speedily using a high gear.
On this occasion the award goes to Dynamic Duo, John and Dawn. Dawn has been John’s, Stoker, pushing him up hill and down dale as John safely navigates the speedy descents.
The Half Wheel
Nominations, Gary, Nick, Peter Millen, Graham & Lou’ Tring
After a short period off the bike, Lou went for a ride with, last years Half wheel Nick, Super Domestique, Lee and master of dry wit Graham. On Tod’ road Nick asked Lou’ to, ease off a bit as Lou’ was Half Wheeling. No sooner had Nick mentioned this, Lou gained downhill momentum and shot off into the distance ! Nick increased his pace and rejoined Lou suggesting they ease off and wait for Lee and Graham, “Don’t worry Lou’ said they will catch up!” Lee, a past master of the Tod’ road gallop, (along with Graham) did, “Catch up.” Lou’s Strava Précis, suggested, it had been a tough ride ! On this basis there can only be one half wheel (no pun intended) Lou’ Tring !
Clubman
Nominations, Andy,Jo’,Nick, Rick,Tony Young, Tony Atkinson.
Like a lot of members there has been much change for Tony and his wife this year. Tony is always warm hearted and this warm heartedness is combined with tremendous endurance. I am sure these attributes are the reason he was voted Clubman of the year by a considerable margin.
Finally a big thank you to Tony and Julie for organising a great evening and for Nigel Mandy and Pauline for running a brilliant raffle!
