Follow britishcycling.org.uk on  

Dulwich Primavera's 52nd Wally Gimber Trophy RR

Event: March 20, 2011 | A Dulwich Paragon Cycling Club promotion

On the 20th March 2011, the Dulwich Paragon CC promotes the 52nd consecutive running of the Dulwich Primavera spring road race for the Wally Gimber trophy.  The race at Tenterden, Kent is one of the country’s longest running events and attracts a top class field. Wally Gimber was an active Dulwich Paragon member in the post war years. He excelled on the local Herne Hill track and in 1948-9 he was the London track, massed start and roller champion and set a national tandem paced half mile record of 48.55 seconds. He emigrated to the US in the 1960s but kept in regular touch with the club until his death in 1993.
 

Above: Wally storming to another win at a packed Herne Hill in the 1940s

Recent winners include a young Bradley Wiggins who needs no introduction. Last year’s race was won by Marcel Six of the Orbea – For Goodness Shakes!  racing team.  The race had an international flavour with a French team representing the Calais-Pas du Nord region coming over to ride, an invitation which will be repeated in 2011. Speaking after the race, Ludovic Leroux from the French team was suitably impressed: ”It was a very good atmosphere, very relaxed, no stress, and a very good course. We were invited by the Paragon, and it was our first time here. A nice route and some good, fast racing. We enjoyed it very much!”

The sentiments were echoed by winner Marcel Six of Orbea: “I found it an amazing race. Very well organised and very fast. This is the first time I’ve ridden here, and my second race of the season, so an early win is really good for me".
 

Above: Photo courtesy of Belinda Sinclair

The event is being generously sponsored by Rumm Employment Law, a Tunbridge Wells based law firm which specialises in Employment Law. The firm’s principal, David Rumm, is an avid cycle sport enthusiast with strong personal links to Dulwich and the south London area. David said; "I am delighted to sponsor this event and cannot wait until 20 March!”

This year’s race is being branded as one of the established South East spring classics. Linked with the Jock Wadley RR which takes place the week before and the Tour of the Dengie Marshes on April 3rd, the best placed rider from the three races will be crowned the classic series winner. Full details will follow shortly.

Race Organiser Nigel Wood said: "I am delighted that in 2011 we will offer riders the well run event they expect from the Dulwich and a prize list in keeping with the club’s flagship promotion". The event is being run in conjunction with SERRL and the transponder system will ensure accurate judging each lap and at the finish. The National Escort Group will as always have a strong presence at the race.   

Further details of the event and a link to Rider HQ or on line entry are on – www.dulwichparagon.com. Visit the race sponsor’s website www.rummlaw.co.uk