THE Nelson Wheelers Classic Cycling promotion - The Circuit of the Dales - was held at Ingleton on Sunday in showery conditions with a strong headwind to hinder more than 100 starters on the final 15-mile leg from Hawes.

Due to roadworks on the A65, the start point was moved almost two miles making the course around 49 miles rather than the full distance of almost 51. The fastest time on the day was done by Peter Smith of Carlisle in 2hrs 6mins 31secs, but Dave Ebbrell of the Blackburn and District CTC, finished a brilliant second less than two minutes behind in 2hrs 8mins 13secs.

Six days before the event and as part of his training, the Wilpshire rider had ridden from home and around the full course and back again for a total of 130 miles, which probably paid off with his excellent performance on the day.

Next best Lancashire rider was Richard Maughan of the Preston Wheelers in sixth place with 2hrs 14mins 38secs and out of the East Lancs riders, Jonathan Boothman of the Nelson and Colne-based Pendle Forest club was next best with 2hrs 16mins 58secs for a creditable 12th place in his first attempt at this event.

Graham Waddington also of the Pendle Forest club, was 18th in 2hrs 19mins 49secs, Peter Greenwood, Clayton Velo, 19th in 2hrs 19mins 54secs, Fraser Snape of the North Lancs RC was 21st in 2hrs 20mins 36secs and Dave Hargreaves of the North Lancs RC returned 2hrs 21mins 8secs for 22nd place as well as taking the veteran on age standard award.

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