Sun shines on record entry for Snake Pass Hill Climb 

Glorious autumn sunshine greeted riders for this year’s Snake Pass Hill Climb, organised by Glossop Kinder Velo Cycling Club.

This year 93 competitors from across the country tackled one of Britain’s most iconic ascents. The 3.2-mile climb rises steadily at an average gradient of 6% - a demanding challenge that attracts cyclists of all abilities. The event, part of the Cycling Time Trials calendar, has become a highlight of the end-of-season hill climb series, taking place just two weeks before the National Championships in Matlock on 26 October.  

The Snake Pass itself is legendary among cyclists. It’s one of the Peak District’s most famous roads - a well-engineered, consistently graded climb that winds its way up to more than 500 metres above sea level. On any weekend, it’s a magnet for cyclists and motorcyclists alike, offering stunning views across the hills and a true test of endurance. For riders, the steady gradient means pacing is key, and wind conditions can make the difference of minutes on the clock.  

This year’s open category (men’s) race was won by Dan Evans of Assos UK Race Team, who clocked a superb time of 12 minutes 29.5 seconds. He was followed by Alex Raynard of Macclesfield Wheelers in second, and Sebastian Sturges of 7 Hills Cycling in third.  

The female category saw victory for Anna Watkinson-Powell of 7 Hills Cycling (Sheffield), finishing in 16 minutes 53.3 seconds.  

Local riders also produced strong performances. Alice Larkin of High Peak Cycles RT set a new 50+ course record with a time of 18 minutes 40 seconds, while Glossop Kinder Velo’s own Benjy Bush (17m 15.6s) and Dan Godwin (18m 2.2s) were the fastest local men.  

Conditions were near-perfect, with clear skies and light winds offering riders a fair test on the famous gradient. The course record of 11 minutes 36.6 seconds, set in 2013, remains unbeaten.  

Event sponsors Cedar Labels supported a number of initiatives aimed at making this year’s event more inclusive. The first 25 women to enter received a refund on their entry fee, and the race offered equal prize money for men and women, including £100 prizes for the fastest male and female riders.  

Open to all ages and abilities, the Snake Pass Hill Climb continues to grow in popularity.  

For updates and future event details, visit the Glossop Kinder Velo Facebook page.