Spectacular Monsal Hill Climb cycling to grip the Peak

The incredible annual Sheffrec Cycling Club event attracts hundreds of spectators to Monsal, near Bakewell, every year and the 84th edition of the Simplyhealth competition is expected to be another grand spectacle of grit and determination.

Last year’s 83rd edition of the event was a great success and this year’s 2014 event promises to be even better.

Competitors, including amateurs and pros, will be taking on the one-in-six, 675 yard steep climb from 11am, on Sunday, October 5, with cheering fans expected to be lining the route in scenes reminiscent of this year’s Tour de France which visited the region.

Organiser Marc Etches, of Sheffrec Cycling Club, said: “Over the past few years the Monsal Hill Climb has proved to be very popular with 130 riders plus reserves taking part in 2013.”

The famous annual event was started by a few mates riding out to Monsal Head, in the Peak District, at the end of the track season and timing each other up the hill.

Following its launch in 1930, the annual event has gone on to attract over 100 riders from club level to seasoned professionals every year from all over the country.

Renowned ex-cycle pro Malcolm Elliott will be keeping a keen eye on the hot favourites after his remarkable record time of one minute and 14.2 seconds in 1981 has remained intact for 33 years.

Last year’s winner was Jack Pullar, of Madison Genesis, with Graham Briggs, of Rapha Condor, in second place and Russell Downing, of Net App Endura, in third place.

Spectators can enjoy the event for free but are advised to get to Monsal early to secure the best views.