75th Anniversary Dinner and Prize Presentation


In the closing weeks of each year, we get together to recognise the achievements of our members during the season just ended. The Annual Dinner is the centrepiece of our social calendar, when we celebrate everything our club stands for. And this year’s dinner is going to be a particularly special occasion.

On 10 November 2021, Beacon RCC will be 75 years old. This year’s Dinner will therefore be held on the Saturday closest to the anniversary of our formation: Saturday 13 November. Here are some of the special features we’ve got planned:

Q&A session with TV commentator and author Ned Boulting
Ned is a hugely entertaining speaker, with a wealth of anecdotes drawn from decades of close involvement with the biggest races and the biggest stars in the world of cycling.

A great new venue
Kings Norton Golf Club has a spacious function room and a cosy bar, in a leafy setting on the edge of town, close to the Alcester Road (A435) and the M42.

A look back at highlights of our first 75 years
Picture displays, a souvenir booklet and the chance to learn about, hear from and raise a toast to some great champions and wonderful characters from the past.

After-awards music and dancing

The traditional end to the evening is back, led by our very own cycling DJ Vince!
(Not your thing? Don’t worry, there’ll be quiet areas where you can chat.)

So, come on everybody, let’s have a really big turnout and make this an occasion to remember! We’ve all been cooped up for a very long time, and you’re only 75 once! A three-course meal, an evening of great entertainment, plus music and dancing – all for £35, or £65 for a pair of tickets. You can’t say fairer than that, now can you?

Everyone is welcome: current, former and prospective Beacon members and friends of the club, plus their partners, family and guests. Whether you’re a newbie or an old hand, a racer or a pootler, you’re an important member of the Beacon family, and the Dinner is meant for you.

The evening starts at 18:00 with a welcome drink in the bar (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), followed by dinner and toasts, leading up to Ned’s Q&A session. After that, Ned will be presenting prizes to achievers in every field of cycling we’re involved with. To round off the evening, DJ Vince will deliver a set that’s guaranteed to get your feet moving.

Although the Dinner’s structure is formal, the atmosphere is very relaxed. There’s a quiz, party poppers and rocket balloons, plus jokes and banter aplenty. Even in the coldest winter, a warm glow is guaranteed!

Ticket sales close on 4 November.

August 2021 intro ride


Newcomers are warmly invited to join us on our next Introductory Ride.

Date

Sunday 1 August 2021

Where and when does it start?

The car park of the Black Horse, Bristol Rd South, Northfield, B31 2QT. We’ll set off at 09:00, and we’ll meet ten or fifteen minutes before that to say hello and chat about the ride.

Where’s it going?

This month’s Intro Ride is going to The Akamba Heritage Centre in Dickens Heath. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:

We’ll cover roughly 46 kilometres (29 miles), mostly on quiet lanes. We’ll stop for refreshments about half way.

Will it be hard?

You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break in the middle and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.

Who can join in?

Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few independent rides first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.

How do I join the ride?

At the moment, because of COVID restrictions, Intro Rides are limited to eight people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance. To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.

Do I need a fancy bike?

No. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means having two working brakes. For safety reasons, we don’t allow use of tri-bars on group rides.

Do I need special cycling gear?

No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But Intro Rides aren’t like that. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. But things like sweatshirts, close-fitting jogging trousers and trainers are fine. In summer, it’s tempting to dress lightly. However, do check the forecast and be ready for conditions maybe changing while you’re out. If it’s going to be sunny, remember to guard against sunburn.

What should I bring?

Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.

Anything else I need to know?

Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?

2021 Road Bike Open 10 Time Trial


In 2021, we’ll be adding a specific road-bike TT to our time trial offering.

The event is being held on the K33/10S course near Harvington in Worcestershire.

The event will take place on 11 July. Entries closd on 29 June. Please see the event page for more details, including the start lists and live results.

We will be following CTT guidance for the TT with regards to COVID-19 measures and will keep everyone up to date as the guidance continues to evolve.

July 2021 intro ride


Newcomers are warmly invited to join us on our next Introductory Ride.

Date

Sunday 4 July 2021

Where and when does it start?

The car park of the Black Horse, Bristol Rd South, Northfield, B31 2QT. We’ll set off at 09:00, and we’ll meet ten or fifteen minutes before that to say hello and chat about the ride.

Where’s it going?

This month’s Intro Ride is going to Boat Shack café at Aztec Adventure in Upton Warren. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:

We’ll cover roughly 50 kilometres (30 miles), mostly on quiet lanes. We’ll stop for refreshments about half way.

Will it be hard?

You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break in the middle and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.

Who can join in?

Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few independent rides first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.

How do I join the ride?

At the moment, because of COVID restrictions, Intro Rides are limited to eight people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance. To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.

Do I need a fancy bike?

No. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means having two working brakes. For safety reasons, we don’t allow use of tri-bars on group rides.

Do I need special cycling gear?

No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But Intro Rides aren’t like that. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. But things like sweatshirts, close-fitting jogging trousers and trainers are fine. In summer, it’s tempting to dress lightly. However, do check the forecast and be ready for conditions maybe changing while you’re out. If it’s going to be sunny, remember to guard against sunburn.

What should I bring?

Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.

Anything else I need to know?

Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?

2021 Janet Kelly Memorial Open 10 Time Trial


Beacon RCC has promoted an open 10-mile time trial nearly every year since 1978. The event is organised as a memorial to Janet Kelly, sadly killed whilst participating in the sport she loved so much. A trophy in Janet’s name is awarded to the fastest woman. Previous winners have included the legendary Beryl Burton and the Beacon’s own multiple national champion, Ruth Eyles, and UCI Gran Fondo TT World Champion, Jessica Rhodes-Jones.

The event is held on the K33/10D course near Norton in Worcestershire. In addition to the women’s trophy, there are prizes down to sixth place in both men’s and women’s categories as well as for vets, tandems and prizes for road bikes.

Due to a serious incident that occurred during our club TT on the K33/10S course on Wednesday 14 July, we regret to inform you that we have cancelled this year’s Janet Kelly Memorial Time Trial.

June 2021 intro ride


Newcomers are warmly invited to join us on our next Introductory Ride.

Date

Sunday 6 June 2021

Where and when does it start?

The car park of the Black Horse, Bristol Rd South, Northfield, B31 2QT. We’ll set off at 09:15, and we’ll meet ten or fifteen minutes before that to say hello and chat about the ride.

Where’s it going?

This month’s Intro Ride is going to The View café in Wootton Wawen. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:

We’ll cover roughly 50 kilometres (30 miles), mostly on quiet lanes. We’ll stop for refreshments about half way.

Will it be hard?

You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break in the middle and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.

Who can join in?

Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few independent rides first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.

How do I join the ride?

At the moment, because of COVID restrictions, Intro Rides are limited to eight people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance. To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.

Do I need a fancy bike?

No. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means having two working brakes.

Do I need special cycling gear?

No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But Intro Rides aren’t like that. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. But things like sweatshirts, close-fitting jogging trousers and trainers are fine. In summer, it’s tempting to dress lightly. However, do check the forecast and be ready for conditions maybe changing while you’re out. If it’s going to be sunny, remember to guard against sunburn.

What should I bring?

Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.

Anything else I need to know?

Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?

May 2021 intro ride


Newcomers are warmly invited to join us on our next Introductory Ride.

Date

Sunday 2 May 2021

Where and when does it start?

The car park of the Black Horse, Bristol Rd South, Northfield, B31 2QT. We’ll set off at 09:15, and we’ll meet ten or fifteen minutes before that to say hello and chat about the ride.

Where’s it going?

This month’s Intro Ride is going to Broadacres Fishery, near Hanbury, Worcestershire. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:

We’ll cover roughly 50 kilometres (30 miles), mostly on quiet lanes, through gently rolling countryside. We’ll stop for refreshments a little over half way.

Will it be hard?

You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break in the middle and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.

Who can join in?

Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few rides on your own first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.

How do I join the ride?

At the moment, because of COVID restrictions, Intro Rides are limited to six people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance.  To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.

Do I need a fancy bike?

No. Beacon members have all sorts of bikes. Some of them take their cycling very seriously and do have fancy bikes, but not all. No one’s going to look down their noses at what you choose to ride. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means it has two working brakes.

Do I need special cycling gear?

No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But that’s not us on an Intro Ride. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. But things like sweatshirts, close-fitting jogging trousers and trainers are fine. Multiple thin layers are usually a good idea, especially in spring and autumn, when it’s often chilly early and warm later. When you start to sweat, you can take off the top layer and stuff it in a jersey pocket or bag.

What should I bring?

Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.

Anything else I need to know?

Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?

Audax events 2021 update


Following the easing of lockdown restrictions in England, we should be able to run a number of planned audaxes in 2021, subject to some modifications.

Wenlock, Begwyn and Stones: 17 April

This is going ahead, with a change to the route due to COVID regulations in Wales. The new route is a great improvement, including a traverse of Wenlock Edge.

Gospel Pass Skivers: 14 May

Going ahead as planned with an interesting encounter on the descent to Llanthony.

Kidderminster Killer: 24 July

This audax is geared towards very fit cyclists prepared for a very challenging 215km day in the saddle. Sorry, but there is no easy option! The 2021 version has even more brutal climbs than previous editions. This event is now sold out, but a small number of additional places will be available from 09:00 on Saturday 10 July – first come, first served!

Beyond the Dyke: 2 October

The late Alan Mason developed some fantastic audax routes. This is one of them. There are still plenty of spaces on this audax starting from Belbroughton and destined for Mid-Wales beyond Knighton. Entries are currently open.

The Elenydd permanent audax

This event is now open for entries again, following its earlier suspension.

For more information on these events, see our audax webpage and Facebook group.

NEC Closed-Roads Open 10 TT


As part of Beacon member Ian Taylor’s fundraising activity for The Tour 21, we’re promoting a closed-roads time trial at the NEC on the evening of Friday 28 May. This is going to be a little bit different to most British time trials: there’s no windswept dual carriage way to slog up and down, there won’t be a dilapidated village hall to sign on at, and you won’t need to worry about traffic whizzing past you on course. You won’t need to park in a muddy field either, and you definitely won’t need to have a pre-race comfort break in a hedge, because there will be actual proper facilities!

The event will feature:
• A 10 mile closed-roads circuit
• Digital timing
• Road bike category
• Loads of car parking
• Great catering
• Amazing prizes – from Aerocoach, Huub and many others!

This event will raise money for Cure Leukaemia and every penny from entry fees (minus the £5 CTT levy), sponsorship or donations will be spent on bringing pioneering drug and transplant treatments to blood cancer patients across the UK.

This event has now concluded. Please see the event page for links to the results.

If time trialing isn’t your thing, please do consider volunteering to help out on the day. You can also donate to Ian’s fundraising effort via JustGiving.

Beacon Academy 2021 events


NB: Club activities are resuming from 29 March. Please click here for all COVID-19 updates.

The Beacon Cycling Academy, the club’s youth coaching section, will be putting on some coaching and racing sessions at Holders Lane, Calthorpe Park, Queensbridge Playing Fields and in Saltley this year. Please see below for the events scheduled to date. Aside from the Beacon RCC Track Championships, the racing events are open to members and non-members alike.

Calthorpe Park/Holders Lane coaching sessions:

1 Monday 12 April 13:00-15:00 or 15:15-17:15 (Calthorpe Park; entry page 13:00-15:00 or 15:15-17:15)
2 Tuesday 13 April 13:00-14:00 or 14:00-15:00 (ride starting from Calthorpe Park; entry page)
3 Tuesday 20 April 16:30-18:00 (Calthorpe Park; entry page)
4 Tuesday 27 April 16:30-18:00 (NB: Due to an issue with the original venue, we’ve had to move this to Holders Lane; entry page)
5 Tuesday 4 May 16:30-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page)
6 Tuesday 11 May 17:00-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page)
7 Tuesday 18 May 17:00-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page)
8 Tuesday 25 May 17:00-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page) NB: Cancelled due to illness
9 Tuesday 1 June 17:00-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page)
10 Tuesday 8 June 17:00-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page)
11 Tuesday 15 June 17:00-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page)
12 Tuesday 29 June 17:00-18:00 (Holders Lane; entry page)

Queensbridge Playing Fields grass track sessions:

1 Tuesday 22 June 17:00-18:00 (entry page)
Tuesday 6 July 17:00-18:00 (entry page)
3 Tuesday 20 July 17:00-18:00 (entry page)
4 Tuesday 27 July 17:00-18:00 (entry page)

5km off-road challenge ride:

Tuesday 31 August 16:30, 17:00, 17:30, 18:00 and 18:30 (entry page)

Birmingham Wheels Park coaching sessions:

1 Thursday 23 September 17:00-18:00 (entry page)
2 Thursday 30 September 17:00-18:00 (entry page)
3 Thursday 7 October 17:00-18:00 (entry page)
4 Thursday 14 October 17:00-18:00 (entry page)
Thursday 21 October 17:00-18:00 (entry page)

During 2021, the Academy will be offering some coaching sessions at various venues in south Birmingham. Keep your eye on the Facebook feed for details of any additional sessions. These sessions take place in a traffic-free environment and are led by qualified coaches who introduce riders to skills used in different forms of cycle sport and include some racing, with the emphasis very much on fun. Most sessions are free, but if you’d like to join the club then membership costs £10 for the year. If weather conditions are bad, please check the Facebook page for cancellations.

Beacon Academy Go-Ride sessions are aimed at young people who can already ride a bicycle and have sufficient co-ordination to stay safe in a group. Riders should wear a helmet at all times, have a well maintained bicycle, a drink and bring appropriate clothing and gloves.

BSCA Regional Grass Track Championships, Queensbridge School

Saturday 10 July 11:00-17:30 (entry page) (info for riders)

We’re hosting the 2021 British Schools Cycling Association Regional Grass Track Championships.

Club Track Championships, Halesowen:

Saturday 26 June 13:00-17:00, with a pre-event coaching session starting at 12:00 (entry page)

We hope to be able to run a full programme of junior races at this year’s Beacon RCC Track Championships, held at the outdoor track in Halesowen, as well as a pre-event coaching session. The Track Championships are open to Beacon members only.

For more information, see the Academy’s webpage and Facebook page.