SDW has fulfilled the necessary criteria to hold this prestigious accreditation, joining a select group of cycling clubs across the country.
Clubmark is a universally acknowledged cross-sport scheme introduced by Sport England for community sports clubs, which recognises high standards in welfare, equity, coaching and management.
The Go-Ride programme aims to encourage more young people to ride through fun coaching initiatives. More than 80 per cent of Team GB started at their local Go-Ride clubs.
SDW was required to submit a portfolio of evidence including qualified volunteers, regular coaching sessions and development plans.
Throughout the application process the Southborough club demonstrated an environment that ensures member welfare and promotes cycling as a lifelong sport.
Luke Anderson of British Cycling South East presented the award to SDW coach Alan Oakley at the club’s regular coaching session at The Schools at Somerhill in Tonbridge.
He said: “My congratulations go out to Southborough & District Wheelers on achieving Go-Ride Clubmark status.
“The coaches and volunteers work extremely hard to provide opportunities for young people to get involved in cycling, and we look forward to continue supporting them in the future as we’re sure that the club will go on to do great things.”
The strength of SDW’s programme was evident in the Catford Hill Climb, the oldest continuously running cycle race in the world which takes place on York’s Hill, near Sevenoaks.
Cameron Preece, who has benefited from the club’s junior coaching, was the first Wheeler up the viciously steep climb in 2min 19sec to win the SDW hill climb championship.
He was closely followed by Christian Neal (2.42), Omar Malik (2.47), Hayden Tucker (2.55), Chris Duffy (3.18), Paul Huxley (3.26) and Carlos Martinez (3.30). The race was won by Rowan Brackston of London Dynamo in 1.57.
Completing a fine season of racing, Rory Barrett and Keith Henderson achieved their Category One road race licences, a great achievement which featured numerous wins and podium places for the pair.
Taking part in the prestigious Roc d’Azur mountain bike races in Frejus, France against competitors from across the globe, Glen Whittington finished 38th in the Trophy Stage race, while Pip Jenkins finished fourth lady in the Mavic Gravel race.
