Last Sunday saw another event in our programme of celebrations to mark the 100th anniversary of the Willesden Cycling Club. More than simply a ride and a lunch, Sunday was a day that reflected what the club has always been about – friendship, camaraderie, a shared love of cycling, and the enjoyment of spending time together.
The event was the brainchild of Gerry and Anthea McManus, who put an enormous amount of thought, hard work and dedication into making the day such a success. Their efforts ensured that everything ran smoothly from start to finish. Chapeau, Gerry and Anthea!
The venue for what was probably the largest gathering of Willesden members since before the Covid pandemic was the Hazlemere Golf Club, near High Wycombe. Around 40 members came together during the day, making it a wonderful opportunity to catch up with old friends. It was particularly pleasing to see members who had travelled considerable distances to be there, with riders and supporters making the journey from their homes in Norfolk, Suffolk and the New Forest. Their commitment says much about the affection so many people continue to hold for the Willesden CC.
The day centred around a sponsored charity ride in support of Thames Hospice, followed by lunch back at the golf club. Thanks to the generosity of Willesden members and supporters, the event has already raised £1,462.60 for the hospice – a magnificent achievement.
Eighteen riders took to the road in three groups. The occasion also marked the official launch of the club’s newly redesigned pink jerseys, which looked splendid out on the road.
A welcome mid-ride stop was made at the Thames Hospice Café in Maidenhead. It was a brief coffee stop by Willesden standards, lasting just over an hour! The break gave everyone the chance to relax and catch up on each other’s news. It is also rumoured that a generous quantity of cake was consumed during the visit, although there was scant evidence to be found on the empty plates left behind.
After returning to Hazlemere Golf Club, riders were able to make use of the excellent shower facilities kindly arranged by Gerry before sitting down for a well-earned lunch with the rest of the members who had joined us for the afternoon. The refreshments for the riders were generously provided by fellow club member John Edwards, for which everyone was extremely grateful. After a warm day in the saddle, the drinks were especially welcome. Thank you, John, for your generosity.
Following lunch, organiser Gerry McManus rounded off the day with a small speech, placing the formation of the Willesden Cycling Club in the wider historical context of 1926. Chairman John Wheatley then followed up by thanking all the club members and their guests for supporting the day
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the display of historic Willesden memorabilia, with members bringing along old photographs and even sporting some classic club kit from the 1980s. It was a wonderful reminder of the remarkable legacy that generations of Willesden members have created.
As our centenary year continues, this event will be remembered for bringing members together to celebrate our club’s heritage and support a wonderful charity. Thank you once again to everyone who rode, attended or donated, and to all those who helped make the day such a success.
Yours in cycling, Miles Back
PS if you were unable to attend and you would like to donate to the Thames Hospice then please go to this link https://www.justgiving.com/page/socialride-wcc
Many familiar faces were at the lunch
The Willesden CC riders
In addition to our regular Green jerseys, pink is now available (and very popular it is too!)
The new Centenary Caps were popular
