McKINLAYS 1st Chard Wheelers’ annual Hill Climb championship took place on Yarcombe Hill on Sunday.

Competition was fierce and some great times resulted.

George Fowler won the event and in the process set a new club mark for the hill with a time of 5mins 14secs.

Fowler, who has been in top hill- climbing form recently, recording victories at Sidmouth and High Ham, broke Rex Facey’s long-standing record.

Facey continued his own run of form by taking second place. He was followed by Andy Mapson, Mark Hughes and Kev Pearce.

Adrian Lane was the top Junior rider, while Wiebke Rietz took the Ladies prize and Rowan Ellis topped the Youth listings.

The winter track league at the Newport Velodrome in South Wales is now underway and already several youth Wheelers have achieved some excellent results.

Evan Richards recorded a debut victory in the C division while Joe West, Ruby Bond, Rowan Ellis and Ryan White have also ridden well in their divisions to take good podium positions.

West has been selected by British Cycling to join their Olympic apprentice programme.

The talented young rider has worked hard for this opportunity and is relishing the challenge ahead.

For more details of the club’s cycling activities call Brandon Ellis on 01460-221479 or visit www.1stchardwheelers.org.uk