Novice James in stunning debut

ANN BOWDITCH was not the only Sarnian competing at the national hill climb time-trial championship in Sidmouth, being joined in Devon by her protege, James McLaughlin. It was a big step up for the 16-year-old who had not previously raced outside the Channel Islands and, not surprisingly, it was a nerve-racking experience for the rider who had been competing in the sport for only one year.

Bowditch had spotted McLaughlin's talent for hill climbing and enthusiasm for the sport following some local races and encouraged the junior rider to enter the national event.

He did not disappoint and throughout the practice rides he made the steepness of the hill seem insignificant as he comfortably rode the climb and it was clear then that he was going to produce something special.

Placing 23rd overall in a field of more than 130 riders, the young Guernsey Velo Club rider placed second in the 16-years age group and third in the under-18.

The winner of the event was James Dobbin, in a new record of 4min 44sec. He had focused on the event over the past 12 months and has established himself as a hill climb specialist.

McLaughlin clocked 5-49, which gave him the lead throughout the early part of the competition.

Only seven seconds behind the junior winner, McLaughlin will surely be back in 2007 to improve on his impressive first national performance.