NVCC Clinches Inaugural TT Challenge Trophy in Thrilling 12-Second Victory

Epic two-round battle between two Clubs sees 22-second swing decide first-ever inter-club time trial championship.

Newbury Velo has claimed the inaugural Newbury TT Challenge Trophy following a nail-biting conclusion to the two-round inter-club time trial championship. After trailing Newbury Road Club by 10 seconds following the first round, Newbury Velo staged a remarkable comeback to win the overall title by just 12 seconds – representing a decisive 22-second swing in their favour.

The championship concluded yesterday (6 August) with Round 2, hosted by Newbury Velo, attracting 61 riders to tackle the 10-mile course. The atmosphere epitomised the spirit of cycling, combining fierce but friendly competition as both clubs' elite time triallists were joined by first-time competitors of all ages and seasoned racers who came out of racing retirement specifically for the occasion.

Championship Drama Unfolds

Round 1, hosted by Newbury Road Club on 13 June, established the foundation for what would become an enthralling championship battle. With male and female riders of all ages competing on standardised results accounting for age and gender, Newbury Road Club took an early 10-second advantage, setting up a tense finale.

The second round saw both clubs gather with anticipation and nerves running high. The tension was palpable as riders knew that every second would count in determining the inaugural trophy winner.

The championship showcased the depth and breadth of local time trialling talent, with competitors ranging from newcomers experiencing their first taste of racing against the clock to experienced racers pushing themselves to the limit. The age-standardised format ensured that riders of all ages and genders could contribute meaningfully to their club's overall performance.

Historic Victory

Following excellent efforts from riders across both clubs, Newbury Velo's comeback secured them the historic first TT Challenge Trophy. The 12-second final margin, while narrow, represented a significant turnaround from their Round 1 deficit.

Tim Cartwright NRC. First overall on the night

Despite the Trophy defeat, Newbury Road Club members scored some significant wins on the night. Tim Cartwright was again the outright winner with 20:31 on the night. In their first-ever Time Trials (yes, first ever!) NRC’s Mike Shepherd came first male on a Road bike in 23:55 and NRC’s Amy Witzmann came first female on a Road bike in 25.38.

Mike Shephard NRC, First home on a Road Bike

NRC’s Amy Witzmann first female on a Road bike

Newbury Velo will now be custodians of the trophy for the next twelve months until the clubs reconvene for what promises to be another closely contested championship battle.

Building Community Through Competition

The Newbury TT Challenge Trophy represents more than just friendly inter-club rivalry – it demonstrates how competitive cycling can bring together riders of all abilities and experience levels. The event successfully encouraged participation from newcomers while providing a platform for established riders to showcase their skills.

Lorraine Murrell, Chair of Newbury Road Club, said that the event “provided a great opportunity for the Clubs to work together for the benefit of all members, as also happened at this year’s Newbury Cycle Festival in Victoria Park”.

“I hope that the TT Trophy will establish itself as a significant date in the local cycling calendar”, said Simon Bowden, Chair of Newbury Velo.

Looking Ahead

With the inaugural championship now concluded, both clubs will spend the coming months preparing for the next edition. The narrow margins and competitive spirit displayed suggest that future iterations will be equally close and nail-biting.

Fantastic photos of Team NRC in action by Gareth Davies