Acme Wheelers (Rhondda) Cycling Club

Acme Wheelers - News

 August 2008

Hill Climb Series - Event 5

Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series, Event 5 winner Gareth Battle

Gareth Battle
Event 5 Winner

The Tour de France stages in the Alps were no distraction for club level racing as Gareth Battle beat points leader Ryan Evans by just under a minute in the Event 5 of the Bwlch Hill Climb Series. Battle, a talented climber, turned out an impressive ride to climb the distance up the difficult mountain road in 11 minutes 42 seconds. Evans in second place with a 12:40 and still leads the series points competition. Third place was Anthony Redman 13:16, Peter Williams 13:39, iron man John Hughes 13:44, Dean Cummings 14:11, always improving Edwyn Parry 14:22, Jason Scott Dodd 14:41, Kerry Lewis 14:44, Paul Griffiths 16:30, Eddie Blayney (pictured) 17:05 and Tony "The Rocket" Morgan 25:45.

Timekeepers on the night were Gwyn Humpries, Audrey and Gerald Clements, start marshal Eirion Atkins and Photographs by Mark Nicholls.

Photo's of the event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery

Acme Hill
 Climb Series, Event 4
Acme Hill Climb Points Table
 
Ryan Evans59pts
Edwyn Parry45pts
Kerry Lewis42pts
Jason Dodd42pts
Anthony Redman41pts
Eddie Blayney31pts
John Hughes24pts
Tony Morgan20pts
Christina Bridge19pts
Gareth Battle15pts
Mike Davies14pts
Paul Jenkins14pts
Paul Griffiths14pts
Peter Williams12pts
Dean Cummings10pts
 
The Acme Hill Climb Championship will be incorporated into Event 7 on Thursday 21st August.

Open Events

ACME riders competed in the Cardiff 100 milers CC 25 mile TT based in Usk recently, Carl Banwell setting the Creditable 57:31, Ryan Evans 57:35, Anthony Redman 59:47, Dean Cummings 1:03:38 And new member Fiona Davies riding her first 25 mile event achieved a 1:11:47.


Tuesday Night Club Run Routes

5.8.08  Talbot Green - Pencoed - Return
12.8.08  Pontypridd - Trefforest - Return
19.8.08  Pontypridd - Creigau - Talbot Green - Return
26.8.08  Smaelog - Miskin - Pontypridd - Return


Fastest 10 of the year challenge is hotting up, Colin May has improved on his 22:02 time to an incredible 21:44, Ryan Evans has also improved his 10 mile time with a 21:49 just trailing Colin by 5 seconds. This challenge is going to run until the end of the season with just a few open 10 mile events remaining, and with only few seconds between the challengers who knows which name will be placed on the Emlyn Jones Memorial Bowl Trophy?


Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series - Event 4

Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series, Event 4 winner Ryan Evans

Ryan Evans
5 Mile Series Leader and New Course Record Holder

Acme rider Ryan Evans set a new course record shaving no less than 17 seconds off John Hughes previous best time. The in-form Evans has now collected maximum points in all three events that he has raced in, and now tops the classification table on sixty points. His record time of 11:20 was followed by Rhys Payne on 11:44 with Nigel Williams recording 11:49. Anthony Redman finished on 12:25, Dean Cummings 12:29, Peter Williams (pictured) 12:34, Chris Wooley 12:43, Paul Griffiths 12:59, Eirion Atkins 13:17, Jason Dodd 13:20, Edwyn Parry 13:32, Andrew Williams 13:45, Michael Davies 14:13, and Tony Morgan 17:47.

Timekeepers officiating were Gwyn Humphries, Gerald and Audrey Clements with Carole Dietman as start marshal and Eddie Blayney course marshal.

Photo's of the event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery

Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series, Event 4
Acme 5 Mile Sprint Table
 
Ryan Evans60pts
Edwyn Parry58pts
Jason Dodd54pts
Anthony Redman52pts
Tony Morgan43pts
Paul Griffiths40pts
Nigel Williams37pts
Mike Davies35pts
Dean Cummings33pts
Chris Wooley32pts
Eiron Atkins26pts
John Hughes20pts
Carl Banwell19pts
Colin May19pts
Rhys Payne19pts
Mark Andrews18pts
Mark Lampart16pts
Peter Williams15pts
Christina Bridge15pts
Andrew Williams9pts
 

The Acme riders were also in action in the Ross On Wye CC open 25-mile time trial. A collective effort from Colin May 55:42, Carl Banwell 56:18 and Ryan Evans 57:13 was enough to take the team award on the day. Veterans Glyndwr Lewis and Ken Washington also rode the event with sterling times of 59:49 and 1:01:16 respectively.

Event number 5 in the Bwlch Hill climb series scheduled for this Thursday (24th July) evening, with good weather forecasted it promises to be an exciting nights racing with Ryan Evans defending his lead in the classification table. First rider off will be at 7pm.

 July 2008

Hill Climb Series - Event 4

Ryan Evans now tops the points classification table of the Acme Wheelers CC Bwlch Hill Climb Series after a convincing win over club rivals, his time of 13:27 was enough to clinch maximum points.

With event number three cancelled due to heavy rain two weeks ago ,event number four was blessed this week with favourable conditions. Anthony Redman (pictured) took second place on 14:06 with Jason Dodd third 15:35. Edwyn Parry recorded 16:10, Kerry Lewis 16:19, Christina Bridge 17:19, Eddie Blayney 17:54, Michael Davies 17:59 and Tony Morgan 27:01. Gwyn Humphries and Carole Dietman acted as timekeepers and club coach Dave Roberts as start marshal.

Acme Hill
 Climb Series, Event 4
Acme Hill Climb Points Table
 
Ryan Evans45pts
Edwyn Parry36pts
Kerry Lewis35pts
Jason Dodd 34pts
Anthony Redman28pts
Eddie Blayney26pts
Christina Bridge19pts
Tony Morgan16pts
Mike Davies14pts
Paul Jenkins14pts
John Hughes13pts
Paul Griffiths8pts
 

Swansea Wheelers CC hosted a open ten mile time trial with four Acme riders lining up in the event that was designated as part of the magic dragon series. Ryan Evans finished on 24:10, veteran Glyndwr Lewis 25:16, Anthony Redman 25:24 and Paul Griffiths 27:26.


Ryan Evans has come close to beating Colin May's Time for the fastest 10 time of the year, Ryan recorded a 22.12 just 10 seconds slower than Colin's time. Ryan and other racing members are determined to beat Colin's 22.02 before the end of the season. Chris Wooley has even purchased a new bike for the challenge - A Kawasaki 600. Chris is experiencing technical difficulties in fitting tri-bars to his new machine causing delays before it becomes ready to race.


Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series - Event 3

Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series leader Edwyn Parry

New Event Leader Edwyn Parry

Four elite club riders lined up for a showdown in this week's five-mile sprint series event number three. Iron man tri-athelete John Hughes recorded 11:37 to shave one second off the course record and to finish in pole position on the night. Welsh 12 hour champion Carl Banwell was close behind on 12:31 while long distance rider Chris Wooley settled for third place in 12:53. Domestique Dean Cummings (pictured) time of 13:30 was ahead of Edwyn Parry 13:38. Parry is now the new points classification leader of the series on 48pts. His consistent riding in all three events to date is testament to his commitment as this is his first year racing with the club.
Paul Griffiths finished on 14:17, Jason Dodd 14:33, Michael Davies 14:40 and Tony Morgan 18:49. Timekeepers for the event were Gwyn Humphries and Gerald Clements with Kerry Lewis and Carol Dietman acting as course marshals. Photo's of the event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery

Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series, Event 3
Acme 5 Mile Sprint Table
 
Edwyn Parry48pts
Jason Dodd43pts
Ryan Evans40pts
Tony Morgan36pts
Anthony Redman35pts
Mike Davies27pts
Paul Griffiths27pts
John Hughes20pts
Carl Banwell19pts
Colin May19pts
Nigel Williams18pts
Chris Wooley18pts
Mark Andrews17pts
Dean Cummings16pts
Mark Lampart16pts
Christina Bridge15pts
Eiron Atkins14pts
 

Open event to report on, Glyndwr Lewis and Paul Griffiths competed in the Cardiff 100 Milers CC Open Ten-mile Time Trial. Their times were 25:37 and 28:12 respectively.


Acme Wheelers 50 Mile TT champion 2008

Colin May
Club 50 Mile Champion 2008

With the racing season well under way, Acme riders headed for Vale of Neath to compete in the Welsh Open 50 mile Time Trial. Top Acme man was Colin May covering the distance in under two hours on 1:59:04 to become the Club 50 mile Champion, the third Championship Title of the year after taking the 25 and 30 mile titles previously. John Hughes finished with a 2:01:46, Ryan Evans - 2:02:59, Anthony Redman - 2:08:52, the club's super fit Veterans Glyndwr Lewis finished in 2:10:53 and Paul Griffiths with a 2:26:30.


Port Talbot Wheelers held an open four-man 25-mile time trial with one Acme team entered. Team captain Dean Cummings failed to lead his team due to work commitments and left his three apprentices Eirion Atkins, Hywel Morgan and Kerry Lewis to fend for themselves in difficult conditions. With the long outward leg to the turn being hampered by a 20 mph headwind, newly elected captain Eirion Atkins powered along with Hywel and Kerry contributing with their smooth chain gang turns technique along the way down the Neath valley. Speeds over 30 mph were reached on their return leg with a tail wind in their favour, reaching the timekeeper in a time of 1 hour 4 minutes and 21 seconds. A pleasing time under the conditions and the last minute team re-organization with Dean's absence.

Powerhouse Chris Wooley failed to assemble a club team (maybe they were afraid) and decided to join the Merthyr CC in a composite team where his talent was appreciated, their recorded time of 57 minutes and 49 seconds placed them 12th overhaul in this popular annual event.


Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series - Event 2

In form Acme riders Ryan Evans and Colin May went head to head in this week five-mile sprint series event number two. With the strong headwind on the outward leg, time was made up with a fast down hill return section of the course. Evans edged ahead of May with 20 seconds to spare recording 11:37 over the distance. May finished on 11:57 with Anthony Redman in third place 12:35. Edwyn Parry (pictured) recorded 13:33, Jason Dodd 14:08, Christina Bridge 14:46, Michael Davies 15.03 and Tony Morgan 18:25. Timekeepers Gwyn Humphries and Gerald Clements extend their thanks to Chequered Flag Garage for providing the appropriate chequered finish board.

Acme 5 Mile Sprint Series, Event 2
Acme 5 Mile Sprint Table
 
Ryan Evans40pts
Anthony Readman35pts
Edwyn Parry32pts
Jason Dodd29pts
Tony Morgan24pts
Colin May19pts
Nigel May19pts
Mark Andrews18pts
Mark Lampart16pts
Christina Bridge15pts
Mike Davies14pts
Eiron Atkins14pts
Paul Griffiths12pts
 

 June 2008

Dragon Ride 2008

Dragon Ride 2008
Photo's of the event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery

Hill Climb Series - Event 2

Current point leader Ryan Evans edged sixteen seconds ahead of Paul Jenkins in event number two of the Acme Wheelers CC Hill Climb Series. Jenkins time of 12 minutes 43 seconds was not enough to topple the Acme ace climber. There was great anticipation before the event as the Bush Mobility CC rider was favourite to win on the night - Jenkins currently holds the A470 record from Holyhead to Cardiff but the tough climb of the Bwlch Mountain proved too stern a test against the current leader Ryan Evans.

In third place on 13:23 was iron man John Hughes, followed by ever improving Edwyn Parry 14:55. Kerry Lewis secured fifth place in 15:01 with Jason Dodd hot on his heels with 15:13. A sterling performance by Christina Bridge 16:23 blew Paul Griffiths away on 16:38. Eddie Blayney (pictured) recorded 17:13 closely followed by Michael Davies 17:51. To complete the event Tony Morgan's time was 26:12.

Gwyn Humphries and Gerald Clements officiated as timekeepers with Darren WarrenAcme Hill Climb Series, Event 2 acting as start marshall. Photo's of the event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery

Acme Hill Climb Points Table
 
Ryan Evans30pts
Edwyn Parry24pts
Kerry Lewis24pts
Jason Dodd 21pts
Eddie Blayney17pts
Paul Jenkins14pts
Anthony Redman14pts
Tony Morgan14pts
John Hughes13pts
Christina Bridge9pts
Paul Griffiths8pts
Michael Davies6pts

In the Magic Dragon Series M & D Cycles sponsored an open 15-mile time trial. Ryan Evans recorded 35:12 to now score 108 points, Anthony Redman 36:26 to total 98 points and veteran Glyndwr Lewis 37:23 for 89 points.


Five Mile Series - Event 1

Jason Dodd, Rheola Bridge
Jason Dodd Speeds Along the Rheola Bridge on the Five Mile Test

Ryan Evans has hit top form this season with his solo effort in the first of a pilot series of 5 mile sprint events held on the Ynyshir by-pass. Rolling over his gears he took pole position in 11 minutes 38 seconds to collect maximum points. He now leads both Acme Hill Climb and 5 Mile Sprint series.

5 Mile Sprint

Nigel Williams was home on 11:54 followed by Mark Andrews 12:08, Anthony Redman 12:24, and Mark Lampart 12:27. Rookie Edwyn Parry recorded 13:15 while Eiron Atkins 13:40 edged ahead of Jason Dodd 13:53. Paul Griffiths 14:12 finished ahead of Tony "rocket" Morgan 18:00.

Gwyn Humphries and Gerald Clements took up the time keeping duties, they were both impressed with the trial run considering the blustery conditions.

Photo's of the event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery

Acme 5 Mile Sprint Table
 
Ryan Evans20pts
Nigel Williams19pts
Mark Andrews18pts
Anthony Redman17pts
Mark Lampart16pts
Eiron Atkins14pts
Jason Dodd13pts
Paul Griffiths12pts
Tony Morgan11pts

Open events have been well represented by Acme riders with Anthony Redman and Ryan Evans competing in the Brecon Wheelers CC hill climb. Part of the Magic Dragon series their times for the event were 14 minutes 11 seconds and 14 minutes 39 seconds respectively.

It was an impressive show of strength in the Bynea open 50-mile time trial with six Acme riders lining up for the distance. Merthyr CC's Colin Wallace took first place in 1:54:54. Colin May was second on 1:59:17 and Steve Bennett third 2:01:04. Carl Banwell completed the trio to take the team award for fastest three in the event, he recorded 2:02:23 and was placed 8th overall. Ryan Evans finished 12th with 2:06:30, Anthony Redman on 2:09:09 and Gareth Battle with a 2:17:36.


Location and Details of the end of season Weekend Ride to appear soon


Hill Climb Series - Event 1

Ryan Evans laid down the gauntlet to all other riders for this season's hill climb series. His time of 12 minutes 20 seconds was enough to collect maximum points after climbing the formidable Bwlch Mountain in style. Shadowed by Anthony Redman on 13:01 a gap formed to Kerry Lewis 15:24 to pip Edwyn Parry 15:32 by eight seconds. Jason Dodd recorded 16:07, Eddie Blayney 17:35 and Tony Morgan 26:22. Timekeeper Gwyn Humphries was a supported by club chairman Roger Evans in organising event number one in the series.

Acme Hill Climb Points Table
 
Ryan Evans15 pts
Anthony Redman14 pts
Kerry Lewis13 pts
Edwyn Parry12 pts
Jason Dodd11 pts
Eddie Blayney10 pts
Tony Morgan9 pts

The ACME Hill Climb Championship will be incorporated into Event 7 on Thursday 21st August.


Continuing his good form Ryan Evans clocked 22:40 in the Merthyr CC open 10-mile time trial. Colin May recorded 22:02, John Hughes 22:36, Anthony Redman 22:53, Carl Banwell 23:05, Glyndwr Lewis 23:45 and Paul Griffiths 25:25. The valley based club made a good account of themselves in this event with excellent times being ridden.

Colin May's Time of 22:02 looks to be the fastest time over 10 miles this season, can it be beaten to win the Fastest 10 mile Trophy for 2008?


Last month's mystery guest was past Chairman Paul Watson. Thanks again for photos Paul.

 May 2008

The Tuesday Night Club Runs have been updated with the latest routes & dates.


The Man in the Hat Do you recognise this member from the recent past, a talented time-trialist, the designer of the current Acme Wheelers jersey and the winner of the 1996 Wasp Road Race? He has now turned his talents to photography and has kindly passed on a selection of photos from the recent Port Talbot Wheelers 10 mile event that took place during April (see the Photo Gallery).

His identity will be revealed next month and maybe more photos of the members from the mystery "Man in the Hat" will be forwarded to our web site.


The Events and Club Runs have been updated with the latest dates.


The Welsh Championship 25 mile TT on 11th May incorporated our own Club Championship with eleven members competing for the honours. The Welsh Championship itself was won by Rob Wood, Echelon Cycles in 50 minutes and 08 seconds while Colin May, finishing in 15th spot became our Club Champion with 54:05. Only twenty seconds slower in 17th position was a still improving Steve Bennett whose 54:25 shaved 2:17 off his personal best. Next of our riders was Carl Banwell in 55:30 while Anthony Redman also improved by 1:25 with his ride of 56:53. Jayson James just missed his PB by 2 seconds with 58:57. Evergreens, Glyndwr Lewis and Ken Washington had a close tussle with 59:33 and 1:00:16 respectively while Dean Cummings took time off from protecting the public to record 1:03:14, not too far off his best LTS. Pete Williams was also close to his PB, just 9 seconds off with 1:03:41. John Hughes's late entry meant a ride in the overflow event, his 56:22 for equal second would have placed him in the top forty of the championship. He was joined in the event by Paul Griffiths who recorded 1:06:48 to become our Longmarkers Champion.

Our Open 2-up 10 Mile TT on Thursday 15th had a disappointingly small entry of 21 teams. Thankfully the wet weather cleared and the event was a success with some fast times despite the cool conditions. Fastest team was Cwmcarn Paragon with Darran Carpenter and David Povall tearing around in 20:03. From a start position of no. 3 they arrived at the turn in second position on the road, finally passing team 1 of Paul Griffiths and Pete Williams who managed to stay on course and were quite pleased with their 24:24. Anthony Redman rode solo to record 22:54 as did John Hughes 22:18 and Carl Banwell 22:40. Chris Woolley and Gareth Battle got around in 22:25 while Glyndwr Lewis, riding with Stuart Evans (Maesteg CC) recorded 22:33.
Photo's of the event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery

 April 2008

Colin May, Club 30 Mile Champion 2008

Colin May
Club 30 Mile Champion 2008

Photo's of the Bryn Griffiths Memorial 25 Mile Time Trial can be viewed in the Photo Gallery)


Welcome to new members Mark Jones (Hopkinstown), Fiona Davies (Ynyshir) and Michael Davies (Ferndale).

The Club's racing scene is quite buoyant at present and it's been nice to see so many Acme jerseys at the early time-trials. Fastest of our racing men at the Veterans 10 mile event on 30th March was Steve Bennett with 22:21 which gave him 3rd place overall. Carl Banwell wasn't far behind with 22:43 for 8th place and Ryan Evans just out of the top ten with 23:02 and 11th place which secured the team award for Acme. Gareth Clements recorded 23:24, Jayson James 23:56 and Paul Griffiths 26:51.

Colin May returned to the fray on 6th April in the Bynea 30 which incorporated our Club Championship. He took 4th place overall with 1:14:22 closely followed by Ryan, 7th in 1:16:10 and Anthony Redman a very close 8th in 1:16:22. The following weekend Ryan was again 7th in the Llandovery 25 with a time of 1:00:18.

Sunday 20th was our own Bryn Griffiths Memorial 25 with club members out in force either as riders or part of the organisation. A full field was lucky to experience a hole in the awful recent weather and the atmosphere at event headquarters was very lively, friendly and enjoyable. On this occasion Steve Bennett (56:41) had to give best to Ryan's 56:29. Colin continued his comeback with 57:46 followed by Gareth Clements who improved by over two minutes to break the hour with 59:35. John Hughes also went under with 59:44, Dean Cummings recorded 1:05:32 and Peter Williams 1:06:21. Paul Griffiths fought his way around in 1:11:00, overcoming the discomfort and lack of training caused by his recent accident. Passing a parked bus at speed, he was knocked off by a pedestrian who ran out from in front of the bus, putting them both in Casualty. Paul's a big guy so I dread to think what the other one looked like after that! Photos of the event should soon be online.

Also riding our 25 was Justin Cannon, son of Councillor Paul Cannon, Guest of Honour at our Annul Prize Presentation. Justin rode with us as a junior before moving away to join the RAF and completed the course in the excellent time of 56:02. His comment after finishing was, "I'd be happier if I'd gone 3 seconds faster !"

 March 2008

Cardiff Ajax 3 up 10 TT Sunday 9th March 2008

Cardiff Ajax 3 up 10

The club was again well represented at the Cardiff Ajax 3-up 10 mile Time Trial held between Abercarn and Risca on Sunday 9th March. Four teams were entered but due to illness only one team started with a full complement.

Due to road works appearing overnight on the course just after the start, the event had to be shortened to nine miles. However, following some rain while the teams were warming up, the sun soon appeared, improving the atmosphere of the event.

Seventh to start of the twenty-six teams were Anthony Redman and Jayson James who again rode strongly and smoothly to record the eighth fastest time of 21 minutes and 37 seconds. They were closely beaten by Carl Banwell and Steve Bennett [who seems in very good form at present] who rode around in 21m 25s, recording seventh fastest.

Gareth Battle, Chris Woolley and John Hughes finished as a complete team in 22m 12s, entering the turn a minute behind Peter Williams and Paul Griffiths. They rode the return leg wondering why they couldn’t catch them. The answer? Pete and Paul were on their way to Newport and turned two roundabouts further on! They did finish the event [time unknown] but completed about fifteen miles. Never mind, they enjoyed the practice and are clubbing together to buy a Satnav ready for the next event.

The event was won by Darren Carpenter, David Povall and Andrew Williams of Cwmcarn Paragon in 19m 06 s.

Photos are available in the gallery.

New Member

A warm welcome goes to our newest member, Rhys Jones of Porth, who proved his worth in the first event of the season on Sunday March 2nd.

Port Talbot Wheelers 2 up 25 TT Sunday 2nd March 2008

Port Talbot Wheelers 2 up 25

Five teams from our club started in this, the Port Talbot Wheelers 2 up 25 mile Time Trial, meeting with mixed results on a cold and very windy morning.
More details are in the Results section and some photographs in the Gallery.

 February 2008

Welcome to our latest new members who are:
Carole Dietman from Ynyswen.
Mike Owen from Aberdare and
John and Gail Lusardi from Blackmill.

 November 2007

Prize Presentation Evening

Prize Presentation Evening

(Photo's of event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery)

The Rhondda based Acme Wheelers recently held their annual prize presentation at the Colliers Arms function room in Porth. The evening doubled up with the Club's 80th birthday celebrations.

Guest of Honour was the distinguished Councillor Paul Cannon, the former racing member of the club was introduced by MC Eddie Blayney.

Once again Jeff Matthews's slide show display was a real bonus to evenings celebrations, displaying photo's of all the members throughout the night.

Club champions were recognised with Ryan Evans at ten and twenty five miles, Steve Bennet over thirty miles, and Peter Williams collected the Longmarkers twenty five mile accolade.

Chris Woolley dominated the long distance section, he won the fifty, hundred and twelve hour trophies.

Peter Williams claimed this seasons polka dot jersey in the hill climb championship ride.

The Bwlch mountain hill climb series sponsored by Hugh James Solicitors was won by rookie Andrew Harries with Kerry Lewis taking second place and Jason Dodd taking third in the four event series.

Steve Bennett received the roadman award and the clubs most consistent rider was collected by Tony Morgan for his efforts in the hill climb series.

Club treasurer Dave Roberts added a classic touch to the evening by providing hand carved trophies in slate for the Welsh Champions Long Distance Team of Chris Woolley, Ryan Evans and Carl Banwell to celebrate winning the Rhondda Sports Personality team of the year for the second year running.

The prestigious Clubman Of The Year award was then presented by club president Gerald Clements to Jeff Mathews for is continued support and commitment to duties within the club.

The final award of the evening was presented by Chairman Roger Evans, a Life Membership award which are very rarely received was presented to Eddie Blayney for is enthusiastic work that he as done over many years for the ACME Wheelers.

Dates for your Diary

Racing members now look forward to short break before resuming training in the New Year with the date for the first reliability trial of fifty miles set for 27th January 2008. The ride leave from the Welcome Inn Tonypandy with the steady riders at 9am and the faster group at 9.30am.

As usual the route takes in Pontypridd, Caerphilly, Newport, Cardiff and finishes at the Royal Mint.

50 in 4 reliability ride ----- 27th January 2008
75 in 6 reliability ride ----- 24th February 2008
100 in 8 reliability ride ----- 30th March 2008
 

 October 2007

Llandeilo Weekend

Llandeilo Weekend

(Photo's of event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery)

The valley based Acme Wheelers cycling club recently held their annual end of season ride to Llandeilo this year. With a hard racing season concluded the relaxed ride is always looked forward to by the riders giving everyone chance to catch up with each others' exploits.

With a damp and misty start from Porth the twenty strong bunch rolled out and headed for Pontypridd. With a gentle climb to Aberdare then Hirwaun it was a fast descent to Glyn-Neath climbing over Onllwyn and then a right turn at Abercraf. The improving conditions allowed the group to enjoy the mountain road that winds it way past the Cray reservoir and on to Defynnog. At Sennybridge the traditional coffee stop was held and a westerly direction set through to Llandovery then Llangadog and finally Llandeilo.

The club members chilled in the Cawdor Hotel that evening with a fabulous well-deserved dinner being served to everyone. Again a damp start faced the riders on the return leg of the journey. Ammanford was the first town to pass then on to the Swansea valley to Abercraf with three stiff climbs to face at Onllwyn, Glyn-Neath Bank and the Rhigos Mountain with over 100 miles in their legs by this stage. All riders completed the 120 miles in under 8 hours total. A sterling effort was made by club secretary Mark Nicholls and Veteran Ken Washington to finish the distance.

Many thanks go to Mary, manager of the Cawdor Hotel for the warm welcome received and also to the support team of Darren Warren, Dave Bebb, Jeff Mathews and Bleddyn Pugh.

 September 2007

Hill Climb Series

Hillclimb, September 2007

(Photo's of event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery)

Event 4

Congratulations to Andrew Harries for becoming the Acme Hill Climb Series Champion for 2007. Andrew set competitive times throughout the 4 event series, gaining the series lead on event 3 and held onto the position for the final event.

Club president Gerald Clements presented Andrew with the Hugh James Solicitors Trophy in a presentation that took place after the event on the Bwlch mountain. Andrew was extremely pleased to have won the series and acknowledge the talent of other riders who competed with him throughout the series.

Second place was taken by Kerry Lewis with Jason Dodd holding onto third to claim the final podium place.

Event 4 winner Lee Williams from Llwynypia, an Elite Mountain Bike rider and who recently became the Welsh Mountain Bike Champion for 2007 was a welcome visitor to final event and was to make quite an impression. Climber at an incredible pace set a new Course Record, beating Gareth Battle previous Record time which was set during the 2006 series by 52 seconds, an impressive feat.

The ACME Wheelers wish to Thank Hugh James Solicitors for their kind support for sponsoring the 2007 Hill climb Series.

Times for Event 4
Lee Williams 10:34 Course Record
Gareth Battle 11:40  
Andrew Harries 13:49  
Kerry Lewis 13:50  
Dean Cummings 14:33  
Jason Dodd 14:36  
Hywel Morgan 15:17  
Paul Griffiths 15:33  
Tony Morgan 21:57  
     Points Table
Andrew Harries 92 pts.
Kerry Lewis 87 pts.
Jason Dodd 77 pts.
Paul Griffiths 74 pts.
Dean Cummings 60 pts.
Tony Morgan 50 pts.
Gareth Battle 49 pts.
Darren Conquer 48 pts.
Chris Wooley 43 pts.
Hywel Morgan 38 pts.
Eddie Blayney 33 pts.
Lee Williams 25 pts.
Peter Williams 25 pts.
John Hughes 24 pts.
Ryan Evans 24 pts.

Congratulations to Paul Griffiths, riding his first 50 mile TT in very windy conditions on the undulating Neath Valley course recorded a 2:19:37. An impressive feat as Paul is still in his first year of racing.


Keep up to date with all the members' results during the month of September in the Results section.


Chris Wooley, 12 Hour Champion

Club 50 mile Champion, 100 mile Champion Chris Wooley has now taken the club 12 Hour title with a fine performance at the Welsh Cycling Association 12 hour promotion based in and around the Usk, Raglan and Abergavenny area. Over the 12-hour period Chris managed to clock up 225 miles, quite an achievement in this gruelling event and by far the most difficult time-trial race of the year. Specialising in the long distance trials Chris will also become the Club's Senior Best All Rounder Champion for 2007 and will be presented with is awards at the annual Presentation Dinner in November.

 August 2007

Hill Climb Series

Hillclimb, August 2007

(Photo's of event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery)

Event 3

Racing Rookie of the year Peter Williams arrived home from Bristol to take the Club Hill Climb Championship with a convincing win. Beating in form John Hughes into second place and Andrew Harries claimed third place. Peter has now achieved two Titles this year, in May he also won the 25-mile Longmarkers Title.

The Hill Climb Championship was incorporated into Event 3 of the Hill Climb Series and Andrew Harries has now moved into the leading position overall. Andrew a new members to the club this year as performed consistently, setting top times throughout the series. Andrew enjoys riding the mountains of South Wales and as also taken trips to the French Alps to ride the famous Col's, which feature in the Tour De France. Kerry Lewis in second place is looking unlikely to topple Andrew in the final event on Thursday 6th September as the series reaches its peak. Kerry last won the club hill climb championship back in 1991 and set out at the start of the series with a hope to repeat is success of 16 years previous, but it's not looking good for Kerry and maybe he'll have to wait another year.

Penygraig's Jason Dodd is also under pressure to hold on to third place as Paul Griffiths lies just one point behind in fourth place, with both riders improving weekly the Challenge is still on to the final event.

Acme Wheelers Hill Climb Series 2007 - Sponsored By Hugh James Solicitors - Points Table - (after event 3)

Times for Event 3
Peter Williams 12:30
John Hughes 13:23
Andrew Harries 13:49
Kerry Lewis 13:50
Jason Dodd 14:36
Paul Griffiths 15:40
Tony Morgan 21:39
     Points Table
Andrew Harries 69 pts.
Kerry Lewis 65 pts.
Jason Dodd 57 pts.
Paul Griffiths 56 pts.
Darren Conquer 48 pts.
Chris Wooley 43 pts.
Dean Cummings 39 pts.
Tony Morgan 33 pts.
Eddie Blayney 33 pts.
Peter Williams 25 pts.
Gareth Battle 25 pts.
Ryan Evans 24 pts.
John Hughes 24 pts.
Hywel Morgan 19 pts.

The ACME 100-Mile champion for 2007 has been won by Chris Wooley, this adds to his success just weeks after becoming the club 50-mile champion. Chris's time of 4 hours and twelve minutes was a personal best, beating his old time over the distance by an incredible 14 minutes. Specialising in the longer events Chris looks favourite to take the 12-hour title in the coming weeks.


Keep up to date with all the members' results during the month of August in the Results section.


Members are reminded to place their Time Trial times with Kerry Lewis during September if they intend to claim Club Standard Awards at the Prize Presentation Dinner on 10th November.


Hillclimb, August 2007

(Photo's of event can be viewed in the Photo Gallery)

Event 2

Under Twelve Minutes !!!!!!!!!!

Acme riders and spectators were amazed at Gareth Battle's climb to victory in event number two of the Bwlch mountain climb series sponsored by Hugh James solicitors. Powering his way up the three and a half mile course Battle's time of 11 minutes 51 seconds secured first place on the night by over a minute to second placed Ryan Evans on 13 minutes 22 seconds. Darren Conquer had to settle for third slot after his last event's win, his time of 13 minutes 58 seconds was just 8 seconds ahead of fourth placed Andrew Harries - 14 minutes 6 seconds. Kerry Lewis enjoying his racing this season pipped Chris Wooley for fifth position after long distance man Wooley recorded 14 minutes 42 seconds behind Lewis's 14 minutes 15 seconds. First time up the Bwlch this series proved successful for Hywel Morgan, his ride of 14 minutes 54 seconds was 13 seconds ahead of Dean Cummings - 15 minutes 7 seconds, their efforts placed them seventh and eight respectively. First season riders Jason Dodd in ninth place - 15 minutes 17 seconds and Paul Griffiths in tenth place - 16 minutes 9 seconds were followed by Eddie Blayney on 18 minutes 1 second and stalwart Tony Morgan - 22 minutes 37 seconds.

Club secretary Mark Nichols accompanied the series sponsors Hugh James Solicitors representative Lowri Bryer, who attended the evening's race explaining the event to her.

Acme Wheelers Hill Climb Series 2007 - Sponsored By Hugh James Solicitors - Points Table - (after event 2)

Darren Conquer 48 pts.
Andrew Harries 46 pts.
Kerry Lewis 43 pts.
Chris Wooley 43 pts.
Dean Cummings 39 pts.
Paul Griffiths 36 pts.
Jason Dodd 36 pts.
Eddie Blayney 33 pts.
Gareth Battle 25 pts.
Ryan Evans 24 pts.
Hywel Morgan 19 pts.
Tony Morgan 14 pts.

Ryan Evans continues to hold on to fastest 10 mile TT with a 22.06, can any member beat this time before the season ends?

Thanks to Rhydian Roberts for designing and maintaining this web site.