PICTURES: Elgin Cycling Club host Pluscarden Hilly Time Trial event

SUNNY weather blessed Elgin Cycling Club's time trial over the hills around rural Pluscarden.

Thirty riders from across the country took on an event involving a total of 632 feet of climbing on the roads to the south of Elgin.

Club chairman Dan Long lifted the Pluscarden Shield awarded to the best ride by a home cyclist.

His ride of 51 minutes and 48 seconds beat all five other Elgin Cycling Club entrants to win.

The time trial was won by Livingston CC cyclist Andrew Gallacher (47:37).

On second place was Torvelo rider Gavin Dempster, who won the road bike category having cycled all the way from Inverness for the event, clocking up a total of 119 miles for his day including the race.

Forres Cycling Club were well represented by 12-year-old Ava Luce who earned second place in her first-ever open road event on her own.

Organiser Lorna Breetze said: We had a strong field of 30 riders from clubs all over Scotland, and glorious sunshine for the race.

"We had almost as many helpers as riders, and I really want to thank everyone, from our marshals, timekeepers, bakers, tea servers and road sweepers, for their time and enthusiasm.

"The team made a great race, with some very diverse riders and bikes, and well-deserved prizes given."

Results.

1st: Andrew Gallacher (Livingston CC) in 47:37

2nd: Gavin Dempster (Torvelo)

3rd: Alan Smith (Ythan CC)

1st: Lady Alison Roger (North Argyll CC) in 1:00:42

2nd: Ava Luce (Forres CC)

3rd: Ruth Quigley (Vanelli Project-Go)

1st Youth: Scott Slater (Deeside Thistle CC)

1st Junior: Lewis Day (RT 23)

Elgin Cycling Club are offering race events - as well as regular club rides – to a wide range of regular riders.

There is a thriving ‘touring group’ – who cycle at a relaxed 13mph average, as well as hugely competitive racing groups.

Club events range from British Cycling races, time trials, night rides, Zwift rides and fun days out.

For more details, join the club's Facebook group.