A cool, calm morning greeted riders for the Chippenham & District Wheelers Open 10 on the U41 course, a welcome change after weeks of scorching weather. With the first rider off at 08:00, conditions were favourable—though, as ever on the Spine Road, the potential for traffic-related delays kept everyone alert.
Bolton Blazes to a New Course Record
The headline of the day belonged to Max Bolton (Ride Revolution Coaching), who delivered a blistering ride to win the event outright and smash the long-standing course record. His time of 20:04 eclipsed the previous mark of 20:25, a performance that set the tone for a fast morning.
“Max Bolton… broke the old course record of 20:25, with a time of 20:04.”
Local strength came from Matt Chapple (Chippenham & District Wheelers), taking second place, while Mark Halls (Bristol South CC) completed the overall podium.
Women’s Podium Led by International Talent
The women’s event brought an international flavour thanks to Flurina Rigling (AeroCoach), who not only claimed first place but also took home the Sheila Wiseman Trophy. Rigling, a C2 para rider returning to Switzerland, impressed with her speed and professionalism.
She was followed by Laura Pittard (Team Bottrill Nopinz) in second and Heidi North (360VRT) in third.
Veterans & Road Bike Categories
Veteran honours went to Steven Cottington (Bath CC), securing the 1st Placed Vet Overall (AAT) award. The veterans’ table also highlighted strong rides from Mark Halls, Dan Laasana, and Paul Rogoll.
In the Road Bike category, Peter Lindfield (Veloflow – Traker Engineering CC) took a commanding win, ahead of Matthew Porter‑James (Magspeed Racing) and youth rider Toby Scott (CC Luton).
Youth Riders Impress
Special mention was given to the two youth competitors:
- Toby Scott (CC Luton)
- Riley Tonner (Beeston CC)
Both completed the course—a significant achievement on a demanding route.
“I would also like to say well done to our 2 youth riders… and congratulate them on finishing the course.”
Course Challenges & Signage Issues
Despite clear signage, a few riders went off course. The organiser invited feedback to help refine future signage placement, showing the club’s commitment to continual improvement.
Traffic counts remained within tolerance, but the nature of the Spine Road means vigilance is always required. For now, the event will continue with its 08:00 start time.
Thanks to the Volunteers
As always, the event relied on a dedicated team of volunteers. The Event Secretary extended heartfelt thanks to:
- Paul Freegard – HQ setup and tea urn
- Thomas Meier – Start official
- David English – Pusher-off
- Andy Summers – First roundabout marshal
- John & Gillian Whittle – Second roundabout and traffic counts
- Lisajayne Booth – Finish number caller
- Sue Andrews & Andrew Greatwood – Timekeepers
And gratitude to Bradstone Sports Pavilion for hosting the HQ and parking.
Course Records Recap
The finish sheet also included a summary of course records across categories, with Bolton’s new men’s TT record now standing proudly alongside:
- Women (TT Bike): Jessica Rhodes‑Jones – 22:54 (2023)
- Tandem: Bradley & Legge – 21:48 (2021)
- Trike (Men): Dave Minter – 28:41 (2023)
- Trike (Women): Judith Swallow – 30:43 (2023)
A Successful Morning of Racing
With fast times, a new course record, strong youth participation, and international representation, the 2026 U41 Open 10 proved to be a vibrant and successful event. The combination of committed volunteers, enthusiastic riders, and supportive facilities ensured another memorable day for Chippenham & District Wheelers.