THREE members of Tavistock Wheelers Cycling Club successfully braved Hallowe'en gales and rain to complete the seventh Dartmoor Devil.
Held on the last Sunday of October, the 68-mile event is renowned for its bad weather although this year was the worst one to date.
Starting in Bovey Tracey, the route wound its way up to Whiddon Down via Widecombe, then on to Princetown, finishing with the climbs of Dartmeet and Widecombe hills on the way to the final control in Manaton.
After a sunny morning, the wind kicked in, when most riders were on the journey towards Princetown, creating a headwind of up to 50 mph. Driving rain caused further problems and by the end of the day only 40 people completed the route, from 111 starters.
All three Tavistock Wheelers finished well within the time limit for the event, which because of the conditions had been extended by 15 minutes. For two of the members - David Johnston and Mike Hunting - it was the end of a year-long national competition in which competitors complete rides of varying types and distances, up to 600km in length.
Tavistock Wheelers ride every Sunday, meeting at 9am in Bedford Square, outside the Police Station. They also meet on the first and third Thursdays of each month at 8pm in the Guide Hall, near the Wharf for a social evening. Feel free to go along and join in. For more information contact Henry on 01822 832216.