It was a perfect October day for this year’s Sotonia hill climb on Dean Hill. The sun was out and there was little, if any, wind – a rare thing indeed!
Making the most of the conditions was 18 year old Hamish Hunter from Fordingbridge, who had celebrated his birthday only 2 days before. Hamish who started his career with Sotonia, but these days rides for VC Venta, ascended the hill in 2 minutes 31 seconds. Runner up for the promoting club was Oliver Starkey in 2.42, while the third fastest time was recorded by Paul East who had come all the way down from Reading to ride as he had been unable to get a ride in the National Hill Climb championship which was taking place the same day ‘oop north’.
Thanks to all those who took part and to the timekeeping team of Martin Napier, Dave Crocker and Graham Harman. Julian Gee and wife Linda were the organisers.
| 1 | Hamish Hunter | VC Venta | 2.31 |
| 2 | Oliver Starkey | Sotonia CC | 2.42 |
| 3 | Paul East | Reading CC | 2.54 |
| 4 | Jon Legg | Sotonia CC | 3.03 |
| 5 | James Peckham | Sotonia CC | 3.05 |
| 6 | Paul Macken | Sotonia CC | 3.15 |
| 7 | Steve Noton | Sotonia CC | 3.55 |
| 8 | Yair Yaniv | Sotonia CC | 4.50 |
You can see all the riders here: https://youtu.be/UMBnrHuGeIw