A CYCLIST recovered from a broken collarbone to win one of the district’s most challenging events.

North-East based Zeb Kiffin, of the prominent Ribble Pro Cycling Club, set a new course record at the Allen Valley Velo Club’s annual two-stage hill climb race at Whitfield on Sunday.

Kyffin completed the course, which included a four-mile stretch with a four per cent gradient, and a shorter 1.1m stretch, with a steeper seven per cent gradient, in a combined time of 16m 25s.

He said: “After recovering from the collarbone smash and subsequent surgery, I thought that doing a hill climb would be a great way to end the season.”

Hannah Farran, of Boompods EDCO, won the ladies’ event in a combined time of 22m 16s.

She said “Overall, I’m really pleased with the way things went today. The first climb was a lot steadier, long and gradual, but I really enjoyed it as I felt that I could just sit in and ride to power. The second climb was a bit more of a fight.”

Marcus Cram, of Blaydon Cycling Club, built on his recent good form with an impressive performance at Whitfield, and was happy to add to his season’s points total.

Fastest local lady contender was Joanne Rea of Ovingham, also riding for Blaydon Cycling Club, with a time of 22m 43s.

Sheena Harrison of host club Allen Valley Velo took the female veteran 50 prize, with a time of 29m 33s.

Event Secretary Nick Badcock for Allen Valley Velo, said early morning frosts lifted by the time the first riders set off, providing cold but sunny conditions, and a steady north-westerly breeze.

He added: “We had a great day of racing today, with some very strong performances.

“The club would like to thank everyone for taking part and all the helpers on the day, who contributed to making it such great event.

“It is the highlight of the annual calendar for many of the cyclists racing and we have received loads of positive feedback about the day.”