THE Dartmoor Classic last weekend provided an indication of how much progress Tavistock Wheelers have made in recent years. An impressive total of 46 Tavistock Wheelers entered the race — in a field of 3,000 riders — and they produced some fantastic results. In the 100km (65 mile) race there were 19 wheelers who achieved the gold medal standard for their respective age groups. There were also nine silver medals and two bronzes. In the longer ride —107 miles — the wheelers had six more gold medals and seven silver. Jordan Channon, aged 16, had the fastest time of any of the club riders in the shorter ride — an impressive 3 hours 37 minutes for 65 miles — and was the first 16 year old to finish. At the age of 14, Rob Waddy was only ten minutes behind him. Emily Atfield had an impressive ride too and was the 6th fastest under 18 rider despite being only 15-years-old. The wheelers had six of the first seven under 18s home including the first four. The ladies' section of the club also performed at a high level with Liz Vernon achieving a gold medal and being the 13th lady home — a terrific result. In the longer race, Dan Strong and Phil Collings were only a few seconds away from finishing in under six hours whilst Rod Stewart had the second fastest time in the over 60s section and deservedly achieved gold again. • As a way to encourage potential members of all ages Plymouth pharmaceutical company Becton and Dickinson have teamed up with Tavistock Wheelers, the Friends of Tavistock Wheelers and Tavistock Cycles to provide a bicycle, for short term loan, to aspiring cyclists. Tavistock Wheelers is optimistic that the launch will encourage more people to join the club ranks, progress onto sportives, time trialling, racing or simply enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being a member. The 52cm Genesis 10 speed road bike will be available to all, for loan, on receipt of a £20 returnable deposit through TWCC's Tim Woodward. Please contact Tim on 01822 860425 for more details or use the club's Facebook page. Should this prove successful then TWCC will look to expand the range of bikes available. For those wishing to take part in club rides, details can be found on http://www.tavistockwheelers.com">www.tavistockwheelers.com