Southend Wheelers spread the festive cheer and sparkle on Sunday with their annual Christmas time trial at Canewdon, with many riders swapping lycra for yuletide costumes.
Simon Alexander (Richardson-Trek) zipped through the 7-mile course in a sleigh-worthy time of 18 minutes 38 seconds, earning him top spot. Not far behind, Sian Marsh (Team Boompods) jingled her way to the fastest woman title with 20 minutes 03 seconds.
It was a family cracker for Wheeler's husband-and-wife duo David (19:52) and Jennie Pennington (22:58), who topped their respective categories in style. Meanwhile, Isaac Phillips (26:19), dressed as Santa, bagged the Best Fancy Dress Award after deciding to park his reindeer and sleigh in favour of a trusty Brompton.
Adding to the fun, Kevin Smith went all out with tinsel, baubles, and flashing lights to claim the cheeky Best Balls Award—finishing the course with a festive glow and a time of 32:03.
Festive prizes of Christmas puddings and Panettone were awarded for the best fancy dress and fastest riders, whist club members consumed a hot drink and mince pies.
Wheelers podium men
1st David Pennington 19:52
2nd Justyn Stevens 20:57
3rd Phillip Brant 21:49
Wheelers podium women
1st Jennie Pennington 22:58
2nd Carol Cartwright 26:13
3rd Jane Harris 31:21
EETC (East Essex Tri Club) podium
1st Niall Canavan 19:57
2nd Ian George 20:31
3rdBen Brooks 21:07
Holiday festive magic isn’t just for sleigh rides—it’s alive and well on two wheels. Merry Christmas from the Wheelers
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