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Published: November 30, 2024

Legends 3

John Cahill had studied at Leeds University where he met Roy Cromack, the first rider to complete over 500 miles in the 1969 RTTC 24 hour Championship. John was inspired resulting in his first success organised by the Catford CC. in 1971, previously mentioned.

He noted that Tyne R.C. won the team event for the third successive year. By 1975 he had managed to put together a team to compete in the Catford C.C. event. Supported by Michael Parker and Tommy Finney the North Staffs Section provided the winner in the RTTC National Championship with 469 miles and winning team with 1304 miles .

In1977 Mick Coupe a cousin of John joined the team together with the Coupe families in support. Founder Member and Treasurer of the Club in 1939, Mark Coupe, now a successful builder offered his support.

Each rider in an event would have a support vehicle manned with helpers responsible for arranging safe stops for feeding the rider, rest breaks, fitting lights and changing into night clothing.

The Cahill brothers drove for John, Coupe brothers for Mick, Parker brothers for Mike and Tony Crompton for Tommy.

The drivers of the cars could report to a Central Control positioned on an island, strategically at about 100 miles where the long legs of the course radiated out.

This organisation with the “Secret Weapon” allowed North Staffs to dominate the National 24 hour Championship for ten years up to 1981.

Refer to the Roll of Honour. Individual winners 4, Second place 6, Team winners 6.

Most notable 2 National records;

1979 C coupe 492, Cahill 489 and Parker 436, 1417 miles in the North Midlands event.

1980 Cahill 497, Coupe 476 and Finney 468, 1441 miles in the North Road event.

(This record was not beaten until 2015).