Macmillan Cycletta series spins to a close in Surrey

12th October 2014

Over 500 women joined Victoria Pendleton this morning to ride in the final Macmillan Cycletta of 2014 in the stunning grounds of Loseley Manor in Surrey. With three distances on offer; 20km, 40km and 60km, there was something for all ability levels, with the event attracting seasoned cyclists and first timers alike.

Macmillan Cycletta series spins to a close in Surrey2

This was my first experience of a Human Race Macmillan Cycletta and it was clear from the outset that this was an event like no other, with the chilly weather giving way to a warmth engendered by great team spirit and the camaraderie of all involved, so thanks to everyone who took part and contributed to the fantastic atmosphere!

Shortly after sunrise a small group of lucky competition winners were munching on croissants whilst quizzing Victoria Pendelton on anything from her Olympic success to Strictly Come Dancing to Bake Off, with many taking the opportunity to get a selfie with their idol!

The children stepped up first to show their mums, nans and older sisters how it should be done, by taking part in the Scootathlon, a mini triathlon consisting of a scoot, bike and run. With weather conditions a little foggy first thing, the LittleLife high-vis jackets were put to good use, helping us spot them whizzing around the course at top speeds! All that took part were given a heroes welcome as they crossed the finish and collected their medals.

Macmillan Cycletta series spins to a close in Surrey3

 

Victoria was at the start line ready to dispatch the 60km ‘Challenge’ cyclists with a blast from the starters horn, before swapping it for her bike and joining the ‘Classic’ cyclists for the 40km route. Hot on their tails were the ‘Novice’ ladies, setting off on the 20km route.

Macmillan Cycletta series spins to a close in Surrey4

Victoria had a battle on her hands when 19 year old Phoebe Heveron took on the challenge to stay on her back wheel around the 40km course. Although, with Victoria using the feed stations as an opportunity to speak with fellow cyclists (and yet more selfie requests), Phoebe was able to sprint off for a solo finish. Siobham Farrelly, the fastest over the 40k route, returned in a swift time of 1:16, collecting her Liv goody bag and OHSO Chocolate as she crossed the finish line.

The 20km route is perfect for first timers as two of our ladies discovered today; Gina Wilson and Rebecca Knight. Rebecca commented on the finish line “It was so much fun, I wished we could have done the 40km as we weren’t ready to stop! Everyone is just so friendly. I can’t wait for next year!” The fastest 20km times went to Erica Chambers andKim Robson, who completed the course in times of 45:45 and 45:50 respectively and both were greeted with a hydrating Vita Coco.

Macmillan Cycletta series spins to a close in Surrey5

Angela Abbot was welcomed back with a big cheer from Team Macmillan and the Girl Guides, as she bagged the fasted time over the 60km route. Angela is a regular cyclist at our Human Race events but was blown away with the supportive nature of all the ladies completing the various distances at the Macmillan Cycletta, commenting on the many who cheered her on as she sped home!

All of todays riders were treated to a mini spa experience, with foot rubs, massage and stretching provided in the Unlisted Recovery Zone.

Macmillan Cycletta series spins to a close in Surrey6