A CYCLING duo from Malvern have pedaled their way to glory after setting new race records during their 55-mile cycle through the Scottish Highlands.
Together, Xavier Disley, aged 39, and Jessica Rhodes-Jones, 33, steamed ahead of the competition to be crowned the fastest man and woman to complete the Etape Caledonia 2024 race on Sunday (May 12).
Xavier knocked 17 minutes and 35 seconds off the previous men’s 55 mile course record of 2 hours, 51 minutes and 13 seconds, and Jessica shaved a very impressive 53 minutes and 8 seconds off the previous fastest female time of 3 hours, 27 minutes and 56 seconds.
Xavier is founder of AeroCoach which specialises in optimising aerodynamics for cycling, triathlon and product design. Jessica works alongside Xavier as finance director of AeroCoach.
The company products and services have been used by have been used by previous winners of the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, Olympic champions, UCI World and National Champions and Ironman World Champions.
Organised by new owners Motiv Sports UK, over 3000 cyclists travelled to Pitlochry to take on the annual sportive.
Three routes were available including a 40-mile, 55-mile and 85-mile route.
These routes included taking on the mighty Schiehallion climb, passing the beautiful banks of Loch Rannoch and Loch Tummel, and riding through picturesque Highland Perthshire villages.
Beginning in Pitlochry at 6.30am, the first finishers began arriving back in town at around 8.40am to collect their well-earned medal.
Many participants were also fundraising for charities including Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, The Brain Tumour Charity, Finding Your Feet, SiMBA, Pancreatic Cancer UK and Marie Curie.
Jo Dytch, event director, said:”Etape Caledonia is truly a one of a kind cycling sportive. It is a rite of passage for road cyclists right across the UK who love the experience of cycling on closed roads among such dramatic scenery.
“My congratulations go to everyone who has embraced the physical challenge and completed the course. A great achievement.
“I’d also like to thank the local community who came out to support the cyclists and offer a warm Scottish welcome.”
Visit www.etapecaledonia.co.uk to register for next year’s May 11, 2025 race.
