As I grew up in the 1950s and 60s you’d be forgiven for thinking that I’m one of the more senior riders in the club. Well, you’d be wrong! Even though I’m certainly not one of the many younger members, there are plenty of clubmates far more, lets say, “experienced” than I am. So, if you think you’re too old to try cycling, or too old to return to two wheels, think again!

OK, I did ride quite a lot once, and to a reasonable standard too, but if you’d told me 10 years ago that after a 25 year lay off, I’d once again be riding regularly and competing in Time trials and Road Races, I’d have thought you were mad.

It all started with a bit too much weight and the realisation that something had to be done. A trip to Decathlon for a cheap Mountain Bike, enabling me to do 7 mile after work potters to Ashley, and back through Hale Barns, was just the start. A year later it was a visit to Altrincham Bike Shak and a decent road bike. That took me out into the Cheshire Lanes and it dawned on me that with a bit of practice and effort, I could still turn the pedals. The best investment I could possibly have made.

On one particular ride near to Lower Withington I came across a Veterans Road Race. I was hooked! Before the year was out I’d joined and been welcomed into the Seamons, had a go in the Club

10 mile time trials and taken some hammerings on the Half Day rides. I like to start with the easy stuff! I soon rediscovered the fun and camaraderie of being with a great bunch of like minded people. You know, 20mph and 2 inches behind the bike in front. It’s even more fun in the rain!

So in 2008, I went faster in a 25 mile Time Trial than when I was 19,  regularly get in the first 6 in Age Related Road Races and completed the classic End to End traverse of the Pyrenees. Oh, and I’m 2 stone lighter, but I wish I was a better sprinter though...!

What are you waiting for???