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St. Christopher’s Long Distance Riders
Published: November 21, 2024
Early Years 1
On a Sunday in 1952 Joe Pond cycled 336 miles in 24 hours including a stop to attend Mass on the route.
Because Catholics had an obligation to attend Mass on Sunday and the Bishops refused a dispensation Joe had to modify the official R.T.T.C. route to include a diversion to a Church or Mass Centre.
Catholic racing cyclists were at a disadvantage so Joe presented the National Club with a Cup to suit the conditions.
Under the Joe Pond rules Len Richmond, Herts. Tony Davey, Liverpool, John Withers, Pat Kenny and Peter Swinden, Birmingham increased the mileage up to 438 by 1963.
Following the 1962 Vatican Council, Mass was available on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Birmingham presented a new Cup to the National Club and John Cahill, North Staffs competing under R.T.T.C. rules rode 464 miles to become 2nd in the 1971 National Championship.
The enthusiasm for long distance competition blossomed.
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