Hell of Hallyburton Hill Climb

First off, a massive thank you to everyone who braved the cold and joined our Hill Climb event on Saturday. Riders came from as far as Perth and Glasgow, ranging from sprightly 11-year-olds to some seasoned gents in their 60s. Great support from local clubs too but a special mention for Dundee Thistle Cycling Club who had 8 riders entered!

We had a mix of riders on mountain bikes, gravel bikes, cyclocross bikes, and even one lady on an e-mountain bike.

The day started off chilly , and we were a bit worried about ice at the top but our trusty steed and organiser Jim, hauled several bags of sand up the hill (with a little electrical help ) to keep everyone safe.

Registration at Kettins Hall was a breeze, thanks to our “sign-on queen” Kate Jackson. Only a very small number of no shows who probably had opted to stay cosy in bed instead .

With all our marshals in place, under the watchful eyes of Paul “the Zone 2 Imposter” Cooper, and Martin Harris overseeing timing, the event kicked off at 11:15am. Riders set off at one minute intervals, trying not to burn out too quickly. Some had to dismount on the final technical section and push their bikes, but everyone made it to the top, where the views were totally worth the effort

Thanks to everyone for taking it easy on the way down again too, ensuring a safe return for all.

Our marshals, Graeme, Colin, Lewis, and Robert deserve a round of applause for braving the cold and keeping us safe . Thanks also to our own club first aider Sean Stone, who gave us peace of mind by being there, even though thankfully he wasn't needed .

A big shout-out to Martin, John, and Julia for handling the timing and results. We are extremely lucky to have support from Martin Harris with his invaluable knowledge and experience.

We also want to thank Dai Williams for capturing fantastic photos of the event .

After the event it was back to Kettins for food and podiums. We would like to say a special thanks to everyone who baked and cooked for the event, we were overwhelmed with the contributions. Thanks to Corrie and Cate who managed the kitchen like pros, serving up the hot food and even cleaning up and washing the floor afterwards .

Also huge thanks to those who donated spot prizes including Callum Brooks from our Sponsor Alyth Cyclery who donated some rather good stuff.

Last but definitely not least, I personally want to thank Jim Foulis for organising the event, despite the delays in getting approval, it went without hitch and was a huge success. We hope to make this an annual event and are excited already about new ideas for next year.

We would value any feedback you have.

Results are attached and photos have been uploaded to the Hallyburton Hill Climb Album. Feel free to copy and share.

Thank you and Merry Christmas everyone when it comes

Winners of each Category

- Youth Open – Jack Tapia (Royal Albert CC)

- Youth Female – Boo Williams (Royal Albert CC)(Hell of Hallyburton Queen)

- Junior Open – Ross Easthaugh (Scotia Offroad)

- Senior Open – Jackie Chan (Team Andrew Allen Architecture) (Hell of Hallyburton King)

- M40 Open – Peter Flick (Dundee Thistle)

- M40 Female – Lynn Gatherer

- M50 Open – Barry McGuire (Leslie Bike Shop)

- M50 Female – Nadine Reilly (Trilogy CC)

- M60 Open – Neil Raitt (Dundee Thistle)

- E-Bike – Julie Clarke