Those of you who know Ben will be aware that he has the challenge of having a prosthetic leg, and Andrew as his dad! However, the former does not seem to be holding him back as he is regularly seen pulling on the front of the Black group rides. Read on to find out more about him.

Q. You have amazed the Black group by your strength and speed, but what challenges does riding with a prosthetic leg present?

A. Generally very little, apart from the occasional sweat build up. I’m more likely to get challenges walking!

Q. What made you start cycling?

A. I started cycling like most people at a young age. Through my 20’s I made use of my Giant mountain bike for the occasional weekend ride on and off road. In 2020 I started commuting to work on the mountain bike but quickly through pursuit of speed and the love of trying to chase down road cyclists (on what had then turned into a carbon framed mountain bike with slicked tyres, thanks to a second hand purchase from Brian) I decided to take the leap into road cycling. Q. You have recently started to do Time Trials. What satisfaction do you get from doing them, and are they something you are looking to do more of?

Q. You have recently started to do Time Trials. What satisfaction do you get from doing them, and are they something you are looking to do more of?

A. My first attempt at a time trial was MDCC’s H10/2 in May 2021, on my then factory spec’ed Specialized Allez, including all of the plastic trimmings which Peter L as the starting time keeper was happy to point out wasn’t going to make me quicker! After over cooking it on the way out and dragging myself up the final ‘hill’ or as it felt, of the A4 past the Shire Horse pub - I had caught the bug for TT’s. The satisfaction in time trials for me is being able to see personal time improvements but also the fun of taking part in local events.

Q. Have you done or do you do other sports?

A. Not to much recently but I also play squash but not with a club.

Q. How often are you able to get out on your bike?

A. 5-6 days a week. Despite now working closer to home I still make use of the time I would have spent commuting as a chance to fit in a morning ride. As well as a Sunday club ride!

Q. Other than cycling what are other hobbies do you have?

A. Photography when I get time.

Q. What is your most memorable ride to date?

A. Riding from Bristol to Merthyr Tydfil in Wales. 62 miles, 5000+ ft of climbing whilst loaded with 12kg of pannier bags - for being one of the only times I’ve been defeated and had to get off the bike to recover mid climb!

Q. Were you apprehensive about joining a Cycle Club?

A. No, maybe a little nervous leaving home to go join my first club ride, but the friendliness of members and the warm welcome from the committee on joining helped.

Q. What do you enjoy most about the club?

A. Again the friendliness of the members and committee, but also the choice of rides, time trials and cake stops.

Q. Do you think we could and should do more to help people like yourself?

A. As an Amputee I have always felt comfortable while on club rides with any of the groups, and there has always been understanding if I have needed a quick stop to empty sweat out of my prosthetic. My suggestion as to what to the club could do to help other people like myself, is to continue being welcoming to all.

Q. Technology has become more prevalent in bikes, such as Electronic gears, Disc Brakes and even Suspension. What is your opinion on these technologies?

A. I currently don’t use any of the cutting edge technologies, with opting for rim brakes and manual shifters on my in progress TT bike build. I see some benefits but for now I am happy with my slightly more traditional set up.

Q. If you could have any bike what would it be?

A. Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7

Q.  So what are the advantages and disadvantages about having such a cycling knowledgeable Dad?

A. The advantage is the tips and pointers which I am forever grateful of!

Q. Do you have any cycling hates?

A. Potholes!

Q. What motivates you to get out on your bike?

A. The fresh air and faster climbs.

Interviewers Comment:

I have been fortunate in my sporting life to have raced and trained with Olymic Champions, and World Record holders. However, the real privilage is being able to train and race with people like Ben who do not let a dissability prevent them from enjoying the sport they love.