THERE was an air of excitement in Bishop Auckland’s historic Market Place last night.
Earlier that day, the town centre had been transformed into a cycling race course and hundreds of spectators were waiting with bated breath as the senior Velo29 road race came to a nail-biting finish. Teesside brothers Charlie and Harry Tanfield had been near the front of the pack from the outset, but in the end it was Charlie who crossed the finish line first and scooped victory.
It was an exciting climax to an action-packed evening of sport, which saw cyclists of all ages compete in three fast-paced road races around a 1km circuit.
Now in its third year, the event was organised by cycling events company Velo29, with support from Durham County Council, Bishop Auckland Town Council and Bishop Auckland Area Action Partnership.
Forty-five cyclists from across the region took part in the senior race and there was also a strong turnout for the youth races.
Birthday boy Joe Tubby came third in the boys under 16 category and was thrilled to make the podium. His delight soon turned to embarrassment, however, when the crowd began to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to him.
The 16-year-old, a member of the Tyneside Vagabonds Cycling Club, said: “It was great fun. I really didn’t expect to get on the podium. It’s a really good course but pretty scary when you get into the sprint and the back wheel hits the bumps.”
Prior to the Velo29 races, families took part in an Olympics themed family fun ride, with many people getting into the spirit by dressing in the Rio colours.
Councillor Ann Golightly, the Mayor of Bishop Auckland, was given the honour of waving the starting flag.
She said it had been an inspiring night, adding: “I think it is terrific for the town especially in the light of the great achievements we have seen in Rio this month.
“The Olympics must be a great inspiration for these young people and it is wonderful to see their determination as they tear around the track.”
For full results and for more information about upcoming Velo29 events, visit velo29events.com
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