ALAN Newark managed to crank out another example of time trialling expertise with a blistering 18:27 –the fastest ride of the evening at the Ely Cycling Club s race night. A superb display of pedal power also came from Philip Peacock, who surprised ever

ALAN Newark managed to crank out another example of time trialling expertise with a blistering 18:27 -the fastest ride of the evening at the Ely Cycling Club's race night.

A superb display of pedal power also came from Philip Peacock, who surprised everyone by completing two laps of the Witcham-Mepal circuit to record an impressive 19:34.

This was a dramatic improvement on his time earlier in the year of 22:37. His efforts saw him very much in contention with the usual high fliers Geoff Brewster who came second with an impressive 19:08, Tom Sykes, who was fourth with 19:39, and Steve Presland, fifth with 19:48.

Ely rider Cliff Loveday continues to reap the benefits of a hard-working season, racking up a very strong time of 20:36. More newcomers were welcomed into the fold for their first outing on the course, in the form of George Webb and Gary Strachan, who both returned home within seconds of each other at 21:23 and 21:27 respectively.

Commendable performances came from Richard Winrow 21:30, and Nigel Leadbeater 22:15, who both recorded personal best times for the undulating circuit, which features a punishing kick up through Witcham.

There was a welcome return for one of Ely's long- serving members Paul Woodruff, who still retains a natural gift for powerful riding, a time of 23:33 being clocked by timekeeper Roy Benstead.

Members Eddie Green and Ray Jolly turned out to be equally matched with the time of 23:44 going to both riders, while another new face, Bill Perry, took a turn to see what he could do with the answer being a very fine first attempt at 26:13.

The rider of the evening was Harvey Leadbeater, who really showed he is the man for the future, riding a tremendous 24:14 compared to 32:12 at the start of the season.

Peter Land stepped in to the role of starter for the evening.

The next event will be July 25 and will be a 10 Mile Trial on the Sutton-Witchford course.

Riders should meet at the Elean Industrial Estate 15 minutes before the official start at 7pm.

For more details check out the website www.elycyclingclub.com, or telephone Marc Cox on 01223 263862.