Cyclists to shed Christmas pounds by pounding up hill

Cycling fans desperate to shed any pounds they pile on from stuffing themselves with turkey and Christmas pud will again be flocking to an Erewash town on Boxing Day – as they take to the saddle to slog their way up its notoriously steep shopping street.

The “infamous” challenge to get from the bottom of Ilkeston’s Bath Street to the town hall on the Market Place has become a seasonal spectacle – attracting bike lovers from across the borough and beyond. They include children.

More cyclists than ever are poised to take part following last year’s record turnout of around 100 who tackled the 5% gradient. The Boxing Day Hill Climb is one third of a mile long, although younger riders can opt to join in halfway up.

Proceeds go to the local Ben’s Den charity, which provides holidays for children battling cancer.

It typically takes the fastest participants just under two minutes to get to the top of the hill – but last year two super-fit riders managed to smash the one-minute barrier.

Josh Giddings, 21, from Nottingham – a former GB academy rider – took just 56 seconds. He beat former hill climb champion Adam Kenway by a second. Two months later Josh broke his collarbone in a crash as he made his pro debut in cycling’s Marseille grand prix. He told Cycling Weekly in September that it was the worst moment of his career.

Josh, now 22, said: “I really like endurance rides with a nice group. I live close to Derbyshire so there are some nice roads to ride on. I normally do four to six hours.”  He will be back for this year’s hill climb – to try to get to the top even faster.

Four local firefighters in full gear will also be taking part on December 26th. They will be joined by the costumed mascot of Ben’s Den who will be riding what is described as an “iconic” bicycle.

Erewash Borough Council will again be closing the route to Boxing Day traffic from 8am to 2pm.

The event runs from 9:00am for rider sign-on with the first rider setting off at 10:00am, with the last rider expected to have completed their run by around 1:00pm. Spectators of all ages are welcome and are encouraged. Refreshments will be available to purchase from a cafe van based on the Market Place.

The challenge – first held in 2017 – is staged by Ilkeston Cycle Club. Organiser David Nunn said as last year’s event took place: “It’s a great way to sweat off yesterday’s dinner.”

The club stresses on its website: “Any type of bike is permitted with exception of motor assisted.”

Cllr Josy Hare, who is Erewash Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “The Boxing Day Hill Climb has become a great festive tradition that draws cheering crowds. The council is thrilled to see it becoming ever more popular.”

To sign up as a participant visit: GRAVITY – The Infamous Boxing Day Hill Climb | Ilkeston Cycle Club