Riders gear up for marathon runs as part of the Diss Cyclathon
An estimated 1,000 competitors took part in the Diss Cyclathon. Photo:Lucy Begbie - Credit: Archant
It was an early start for cyclists this morning as they met for the Diss Cyclathon that began at an eye-rubbing 8am.
It was an early start for cyclists on Sunday as they met for the Diss Cyclathon that began at an eye-rubbing 8am.
An estimated 1,000 competitors arrived at Diss Market Place to take part and raise money for the East Anglia Air Ambulance.
Sponsor Mick Madgett said the event attracted riders from all over East Anglia as well as from Diss.
'About 1,000 riders are taking part today, that's double last year's numbers, ' he said.
'It is a challenge to do something physically active, but with runs of a 100, 50 and 25 miles there is something for everybody today.
East Anglia is flat - but you don't get any down hills to relax either!'
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Graham Trudgill, Malcom Chambers and Robin Briscoe last cycled together nearly fifty years ago when they were students at Diss Secondary Modern School.
But a reunion on Facebook a few months ago led to the childhood friends arranging to meet again and cycle in the Diss Cyclathon.
Sixty-two-year-old Robin Briscoe said: 'I'm not sure about how much chat there will be - I might need a few pushes.
'If I can still walk at the end, yes we will be celebrating.'
It was the first time on a tandem for Lara and Chris Griffin-Sparrow who were joined by their son Will.
'It was my birthday yesterday and I'm recovering from a hangover - so I'll just sit on the back and cruise,' joked Lara.
'I can't wait, I've never been this far before - I just want to achieve it, ' said eleven-year-old Will.
Andrew Scott from near Alburgh was riding a recumbent bike and reckoned the ride would be a piece of cake.
'Riding this bike is like being on a bobsleigh, you feel you are flying above the ground - pure poetry,' he said.
Olly Simmonds with his son Oscar and son's friend Ethan Griffin-McCleary had already cycled twelve miles on their triple bike.
'It's great but I can't wait to give it back,' Mr Simmonds laughed. ' It's maximum fun and very sociable but efficient it is not.'
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