Sarah Wilkinson (Blaydon CC) and Marcus Cram (Muckle Cycle Club) set new course records in the women’s and open categories at the Allen Valley Velo hill climb.

Veteran rider Wilkinson set a new women’s benchmark time of 12 minutes and 18 seconds and Cram the new open record of 9-15.

Meanwhile, a fine ride by Rhys Edwards (trainSharp) saw the junior finish fifth overall and set a new category course record of 9-46.

Starting at Thornley Gate the 2.43-mile climb starts at a shallow gradient before rising through the trees at about a 7% gradient. The course then opens into exposed moorland.

You could see the low hanging cloud and mist covering the upper parts of the climb from the race headquarters on the outskirts of Allendale, but conditions were good with no wind.

Wilkinson took her first open hill climb victory of the season after finishing in the podium positions at four other events.

The women’s podium was dominated by Blaydon CC riders with Elspeth Chatto finishing second in 12-49 and Louise Burnie third (13-00).

"It made such a difference this year not having a strong headwind the whole way, even though it was misty - you couldn't really see the finish line,” said Wilkinson. 

“I think I paced it pretty well as it's easy to set off too hard on this climb. I was pleased with the win as my team-mates Louise and Elspeth are both going well. 

“It was especially great to see ‘The Blaydies’ taking the podium places. Thank you to all of the organisers and volunteers - this is always a well organised event and a wonderful spread afterwards.”

After winning on Winters Gibbet earlier this month Cram, aged 31, picked up his second open hill climb victory of the season in 9-15.

Iain Duffield (VENTURE RACING) had been tipped to take victory by Spindata but had to settle for runner-up on this occasion finishing three seconds back in 9-18.

Completing the open podium position was Alexander Storey (GS Metro) who posted a time of 9-27.

"I was pleasantly surprised with the win today as the course is one that doesn't particularly suit me,” said Cram.

“It is great to see the Northeast clubs having healthy fields for open hill climbs, particularly as we are hosting nationals in the region this year. 

“After a heavy weekend with events, I'm looking forward to an easier week.  Thanks to Allen Valley Velo for a great morning.”

Edwards was the quickest junior and Jonathan Bayley (Reifen Racing) the quickest veteran in 9-59.

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