A FIELD of more than 130 riders took part in Giggleswick School’s first ever challenging cyclocross event.

Held against the stunning backdrop of the school’s setting, the event saw cyclists tackling a challenging off-road circuit. The skills of riders were challenged with crossing a stream and steep climbs, which could only be achieved by dismounting and carrying the bikes aloft. There were also downhill sections made more difficult with mud and slippery rock surface.

Based loosely around the independent school’s purpose built mountain bike track, organisers said the event was well received by riders who described it as ‘tough but enjoyable’.

Multiple Three Peaks Cyclocross winner, Rob Jebb, riding for Barnoldswick-based Hope Factory Racing, was the overall victor and first veteran over 40 years old.

Skipton’s Ian Taylor, former World Masters Champion, was second overall and first over 45 years old.

Third overall and highest placing senior was David Powell, of Horwich Cycling Club, in the West Pennines.

First lady was Kendal’s Helen Jackson with Tom Blenkinsop, of Bronte Tykes taking the spoils in the youth section.

Fourth overall and first junior was Tom Whitworth riding for HSW.

The event, organised by Giggleswick Outdoor Pursuits, the school’s commercial arm, attracted competitors from under eight year olds to all age groups.

Giggleswick School pupil Will Scholey, 13, competing in his first ever cyclocross race, came third in the under 14s on a bike borrowed from Hope, Barnoldswick.

Teachers, Pete Keron and course designer Kevin Smith also took part in the event.

Chris Wright, head of Giggleswick OP, said he hoped the event would expand in future years.

“The event was a great success and I would like to thank everyone who rode, supported in any way and helped out,” he said.

“We hope it might become a Yorkshire Cyclocross Association ‘points’ event in future years, which would attract more riders as non-points races tend to clash with National Trophy fixtures. We have a wonderful venue and a first class cyclocross course.”