This Sunday’s Great Selby Bike Ride brought out one of Vale of York’s most varied group of riders yet. In the VOYAC peloton were three generations of Wigglesworths, Alan Sanderson (a.k.a. Clara and Megan’s dad), and me (looking for more miles en route to Vatternrundan 2026). Our six riders were spread across two routes (25 and 45 miles) and united by their enjoyment of cycling and support for local events.
Before the official start at 10.00, there was time to soak up some May sunshine and have a chat with local MP Keir Mather, who was lining up for the 25-mile route himself. Over 100 riders took part in the annual event, organised by Elmet Lions to raisw money for local charities.
Grandad Wigglesworth, Daniel, and the kids: Evelyn and Alice, took on the 25-mile route. Alice (11), who admitted beforehand she wasn’t totally sure they’d make it round, had a different perspective at the finish line: “Crossing the finish line felt amazing. My legs are completely tired, but it was really fun doing it all together.”
Dad Daniel, meanwhile, had clocked the field: “You know you’re doing a bike ride in Yorkshire when half the group is in Vale of York kit and the other half is riding a Planet X they bought on sale ten years ago.”
He’s not wrong.
Alan and I stepped up for the 45-mile route. The talk of that group was all about Robbie from Drax. An absolute unit on a bike with a distinctive long white beard in plaits, he set a torrid pace at the front, averaging around 22 mph for most of the ride, headwind or tailwind. His was the kind of effort that made me quietly reassess my ride choices somewhere around Bubwith and mile 40 when I fell off the pace.
A brilliant day out though for young and old. Well done to everyone who took part, and to Elmet Lions for putting on an event that clearly means a lot to the Selby community.
