The 2009 Isle of Wight Cycling Festival finished on a high with a record number of cyclists taking part in this years gruelling Hills Killer Challenge.
310 riders took part in the famous orienteering event which is organised by the Isle of Wight Council. It challenges cyclists to pit their bikes against three, seven or 14 hills.
A new record was set by Ben Johnson of Ryde who completed the 14 Hills Challenge in 04:16:20, almost an hour quicker than he completed the challenge last year. The only female to enter the 14 Hills Challenge was Pip Hildesley from Poole who completed the epic ride in 07:21:51.
Dave Dent from Shalfleet beat 261 other riders to claim the top spot in the Seven Hills Challenge with a time of 02:03:23. The fastest Under 18 to complete the challenge was 14 year old Tim Isaac from Gatcombe with a very respectable time of 02:25:23.
The Three Hills Challenge for beginner riders was won by the mixed team of Nicky Riches and Matthew Mills in a time of 01:54:08.
Competitors were greeted with music, BBQ’s and bike demos from Giant at the new finish location at Lower Hyde Holiday Park in Shanklin. After logging the all important ride data with the race director, competitors made the most of the beautiful weather while cheering on fellow riders as they completed the famous Hills Killer.
Cllr George Brown, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member for the economy, tourism, leisure and planning said:
“This year’s Hills Killer Challenge has been the most successful yet with riders travelling from across the country to take part. Events such as this are helping to establish the Isle of Wight as a top cycling destination, attracting thousands of cyclists not just during the council’s cycling festival but around the year.”
Full Hills Killer results can be found on the IW Cycling Festival website: www.sunseaandcycling.com
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