IN the past week, Mid-Devon Cycling Club has been busy with several trips and races. Notably, two groups enjoyed long weekend cycling adventures in Brittany, France. These trips were organized by Paul Martin and offered participants a chance to experience both challenging rides and beautiful sights.

In addition to the Brittany trips, Mid-Devon Cycling Club also fielded a team to Vire, France. Vire is a town twinned with Totnes, and the club has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the cycling community there for many years.

Mid-Devon cycling club, Vire team
Mid-Devon cycling club, Vire team (Contributed)

The team consisted of riders Mick Makin, George Watch, Ben Meek, James Pearcy, Charlie Meredith, and Shaun Davey, with Andy Hitchen serving as team manager and Simon Aske providing expert mechanical support.

The trip proved to be a success, with all team members putting in outstanding rides.  A special shout-out goes to Charlie Meredith, who achieved the prestigious "blue jersey" overnight for being the first foreign rider.

Continuing the French theme and several Mid-Devon riders participated in the Tro Bro Leon sportive. This event offered a variety of routes catering to different preferences, with five options available. Cyclists could choose from two challenging gravel races or three road rides and 2,000 took part.

Dexter Townsend came 4th on the first stage in Isle of Man Youth & Junior Tour and 6th overall- it was good to see improvement in national results as Dexter has committed to ride the whole series this year.

Under 14 Lauren Fox had her best MTB race so far getting another podium in round 2 of the national series at Margam Park Wales. Under 14 teammate Matt Holmes came 11th in a very close race in this discipline. Edward Fraile-Whysall had a strong ride at Odd Down Bath in the Southern series and placed third with Bayley Woodger not far behind in 11th.

MD riders also took part in the Plymouth Corinthian CC Spring Road Races on the Brentor circuit- Charlie Meredith coming first showing good legs from racing in France and George Watch was 5th. Also, Edd Selwood was racing well on the road after having a break this week from the track.