In the quaint era of 1908, a pact among church lads in Neepsend and Pitsmoor birthed the Rutland Hall Cycling Club. Initially riding for pleasure, they introduced a touch of racing with the establishment of the 50-mile handicap cup in 1913. The 1920s witnessed the arrival of Len Ingle, an accomplished rider and key figure in club administration.

During the challenging times of the Depression, members found solace in the hills of Shireoaks and Lindrick Dale. In 1932, Bill Littlewood accepted a challenge from 'The Sheffield Star,' cycling from Sheffield to London in 8h 59mins 0s, a feat celebrated until Stuart Elsy surpassed it 60 years later.

The late 1930s saw Alwyn Cawthorne, Joe Wilson, and Ron Masterman making their mark in local events. Despite World War II calling some members to duty, Rutland CC remained active, unlike some clubs that disbanded post-war. Notable figures like Len Ingle, the Coopers, Denis Bell, and others steered the club through the war years.

Post-war, cycling experienced a surge, with club captain Percy Senior leading sixty-plus riders on club runs. The early fifties ushered in a focus on road racing, with Ray Lockwood, Brian Trippett, and Dick Bartrop achieving pro ranks, the latter riding the Tour of Britain.

In the sixties, Ben Hamilton and Dave Dungworth joined, with Ben excelling in longer distances and holding the Sheffield to York record. Dave dominated shorter distances, clinching the 25m and 50 national championships in 1966 and repeating the feat the following year. His 50-mile club record of 1h 48mins 54s, achieved without tribars and disc wheels on a top gear of 107", stands as a testament to Rutland CC's legacy in cycling history.

Join Rutland CC, where each pedal stroke echoes the tales of a century-long journey through triumphs, challenges, and the sheer joy of cycling.

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