02/08/11….Thame cyclist pedals alongside Olympic rower

MEMBERS of High Wycombe Cycle Club, including members from Thame, were joined by an unexpected guest rider over the weekend, when Olympic oarsman, James Cracknell took part in his first time trial.

Last Sunday (31/07), in near perfect conditions, the West London Cycling Association held their 25 mile time trial on the H25/2 course. The course covers the Marlow by-pass and A/4 towards Reading.

54 riders took part from various clubs around the district, including High Wycombe CC, represented by Adam Topham, Geoff Powell and Thame resident, John Francis.

It was a good day for the Wycombe riders as Adam Topham came in first overall with a time of 51 mins 15 seconds. HWCC also scooped the team award given to three riders from the same club with the lowest amalgamated time. John Francis claimed fourth veteran position with a personal best for a 25, of 59:03.

The team time on the day set new High Wycombe CC club records of 2:46:07 and a new vets record on standard with a plus of 49:07 (This is an age related time system widely used in vets time trialling.)

After recording a time of 56:56, James Cracknell awarded the medals.

Picture by Jim Burgin, WLCA