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Top UK riders race in Lincolnshire to celebrate the life of Bourne rider in Timmy James Memorial Road Race




Top UK riders paid a moving and action-packed tribute to Tim James at an annual race to celebrate the young cyclists’s life.

Alex Richardson, winner of the men’s race, wrote to thank race organiser Mark Botteley, of Bourne Wheelers, and Tim’s mum Janet who supported the day and presented the prizes.

Tim died three years ago this month, aged just 23, after battling a very rare and aggressive form of cancer, cutting off an exciting career before its prime.

Tim James raced against future Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar and was tipped for big things
Tim James raced against future Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar and was tipped for big things

“It’s probably the only race in the calendar that I remember for other reasons,” Alex said.

“I remember Tim being a kind, gentle and intelligent person who had a positive outlook when we shared a house in Spain getting on for seven years or so ago.

“I think he would be exceptionally proud of all of your efforts to support his passion by putting this race on.

Timmy James Memorial Road Race winner Alex Richardson with Tim's mum Janet James. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
Timmy James Memorial Road Race winner Alex Richardson with Tim's mum Janet James. Photo courtesy of Velo UK

“Please don’t underestimate what you have all given him by doing this.”

The day comprised of the Women's Witham Hall Grand Prix in the morning, followed by the Timmy James Memorial Road Race after lunch.

They were held on a circuit based at Witham-on-the-Hill, with proceeds from the races, estimated at around £1,500, going to the Young Lives vs Cancer charity.

Both races featured plenty of attacks, but they were kept in check by a vigilant bunch. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
Both races featured plenty of attacks, but they were kept in check by a vigilant bunch. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
The races were categorised at National B level by British Cycling. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
The races were categorised at National B level by British Cycling. Photo courtesy of Velo UK

Kind conditions made for record average speed in both races - 28.5mph for the men and 24mph for the women.

The men's race finally split on the final 11-and-a-half-mile lap where pre-race favourite Richardson slipped away into a breakaway group which built a 45-second gap.

On the final run-in, the St Piran team rider beat 2022 winner Toby Barnes and Chinese international racer Lie Boan.

Alex Richardson pips 2022 race winner Toby Barnes to the line. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
Alex Richardson pips 2022 race winner Toby Barnes to the line. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
Janet and race organiser Mark Botteley (right), with, from left, runner-up Toby Barnes, winner Alex Richardson and third-placed Li Boan. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
Janet and race organiser Mark Botteley (right), with, from left, runner-up Toby Barnes, winner Alex Richardson and third-placed Li Boan. Photo courtesy of Velo UK

“It was another fast, attacking race with another fight to the line, and another very worthy name to go on the trophy,” said Janet.

“Tim would have been so proud to know that it was another full field of the best riders in the UK racing on the local roads.”

The women's race served up a bunch finish contested by the whole field, despite the best efforts of Norwegian international Tuva Mauland and Bourne's Sian Botteley.

Junior rider Lucy Glover took the spoils in the Witham Hall Women's Grand Prix. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
Junior rider Lucy Glover took the spoils in the Witham Hall Women's Grand Prix. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
The race HQ was based in the picturesque setting of Witham Hall School. Photo courtesy of Velo UK
The race HQ was based in the picturesque setting of Witham Hall School. Photo courtesy of Velo UK

They drove what looked to be the winning break with a lap to go, but they couldn’t quite stay clear, and Lucy Glover took the spoils from fellow juniors, Amelia Staunton and Mari Porton.

Janet added: “A big thank-you to Mark for all his organisation, plus volunteers, Witham School for allowing us to have an amazing HQ, and Mike and Terri from Barbers Farm for allowing us to park and serve tea and coffee from another amazing setting.

“Riders and spectators thought it was a great day and race in memory of Tim.”



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