As part of Wrekinsport CC's 100th year celebrations the club held two extremely popular Anniversary Rides to commemorate the centenary starting and finishing from Wellington Leisure Centre. The origins of the club begin with The Wrekin Cycling and Athletic Club formed in 1922, and over 80 riders signed up for the challenge, with other local clubs joining in to help cement the celebrations making for a real occasion, and many of the club's oldest and long-standing members also taking part. Many of the riders were sporting a special edition commemorative cycling top voted for by the membership in a striking light blue, with the club's normal red, yellow and black colours banded around the chest; and with a 100 year badge and “1922-2022” prominently displayed.
First off were riders for “Gos' Gran Fondo”, a type of long distance challenge originating in Italy in 1970, and roughly translating to "Big Ride" – and with 116 kilometres and 1,290 metres of climbing taking in Church Stretton, Homer, Broseley, Bridgnorth and Little Wenlock to contend with it was not for the faint hearted. The ride was named after the club's premier long distance mile-eater Dave Gostelow, who is currently recovering from a stroke.
The shorter 50km ride “Fletch's 50” closely followed an infamous club run undertaken by the club's 'C’ ride for the first half; taking in Harley, Homer, The Wyke and Broseley; before a further leg-pounding trip to Little Wenlock via Spout Lane with 660 metres of climbing involved, not least Homer Bank which briefly touches 18% and a leg-breaking climb entering Wyke village. Copious refreshments were gratefully received mid-ride at Broseley Victoria Hall courtesy of Broseley Life Skills and Tea Room, with a baking sun accompanied by a fresh wind adding to the need for respite.
Reflecting on the success of the event club Chairman Dave Moore commented: “A fabulous celebration ride for our 100th year as a cycling club. The club has been through many changes over time; technology and social media in recent years have kept us on our toes. But the love of cycling and making friends is what will always be at the forefront of this wonderful club. Here's to the next 100 years!”
