THERE was a surprise in store for riders and officials at Farnham Road Club’s 10-mile time trial last week.

Amongst the starters was Harry Tanfield, a professional rider with Canyon-Eisberg, silver medallist in the Commonwealth Games time trial and, most recently, winner of the first stage of the Tour de Yorkshire.

After signing on, Tanfield said he wanted to make an attempt on the course record. Conditions were far from favourable, though, with a strong and blustery wind facing riders on the longer, return leg.

Timekeeper Ian Thomas, therefore, could scarcely believe his watch when Tanfield finished in 18mins 07secs, taking 29 seconds off the previous course record, held since 2011 by Alex Dowsett, another well-known professional, then in the colours of Team Sky.

Alan Murchison of Drag2Zero was runner-up in 20-19, a time which would normally have easily won the event. Third was Peter Hitt (Hoops Velo) in 21-30.

Farnham Road Club were represented by Roger Taylor (24-01), Jim Parker (26-08), Roger Chapman (26-58), Harriet Somers (27-25) and Nigel Bicknell (33-32).

Timekeepers were Jim Brown and Ian Thomas, with help from Nigel Bicknell, Richard Williams and David Clifford.

There are not many sports where elite competitors mix so easily with lesser mortals!