MATT DILLINGHAM overcame the handicap and all-comers to win Meltham Athletic Club’s 11th annual club duathlon.
A small band of hardy souls braved the blustery conditions to compete in the event, which consists of a hilly 4.5-mile cycling leg around Meltham, Healey House, South Crosland and Helme, sandwiched between two 2.5-mile runs to Healey House and back.
The handicapped event was won last year by Martin Sturdy, but even with a generous allowance this year he could not repeat the victory, as Dillingham made up the 14min gap to Sturdy, overhauling him on the bike leg.
Second was organiser (and handicapper) Andy Whitworth, who closed up only 50sec of the three-minute lead to the winner, while Nigel Thomas was third, 15 seconds further back.
Ruth Thomas was the first lady with a time of 59-57.
Leading times were: Dillingham 44-00, Whitworth 43-10, Thomas 53-25, Chris Oldfield 47-06, Graham Sykes and Rod Green (relay) 47-32, Sturdy 63-04, Barry Tyas 53-37, Richard Beaumont 52-20.
Club members later enjoyed the traditional post-race barbecue at the home of Richard and Debbie Beaumont.
