The Old Town Bike Race
This is held in memory of Jimmy Read, a popular fisherman who was tragically killed during the hurricane winds of 1987. When he was alive it was suggested to Jimmy that he should get a motorbike. 'Why', he said, 'I can get anywhere on my bike'. And so a challenge was made. The steep slope of Crown Lane was decided as the place for Jimmy to be put to the test. The rules were simple. He could only use pedal power and he must not lift his backside from the saddle. A small crowd gathered in Crown Lane to watch Jimmy prove his point which he did with considerable style!
A year after his death, his friend Peter Trickett decided to commemorate the Jimmy's spirit by holding a race for the Jimmy Read Memorial Trophy and 16 years later it is still going strong. All are welcome to ride up Crown Lane from a standing start in the quickest time. A donation to the starter and off you go!
Further Information: