Although a few degrees colder down near the coast than at home, you sensed it was going to be a good day as the hot air balloons where already taking off from Leeds Castle on the way down. With the clear skies it didn’t take too long for the temperatures to start to rise. With the light winds there were a lot of good times and some personal bests. There were 5 people down as Sydenham members, the fastest of whom was Ben Wimpory in 1.51.10 (5th), who rode in 2nd claim colours as it was an association event. 2nd fastest was Richard Birtwhistle who seems to struggle getting under the 2 hour barrier on this course with 2.00.02 (18th), however he did pick up the Novis Cup as fastest 1st claim member. Robert Royston turned in a 2.08.53 (34th) and Dave Twin a 2.11.12 (40th). 2nd claim member Doug Bentall started a minute after Dave and caught him about 5 miles into the event. A ding dong battle then commenced, although Dave finished ahead Doug finished in a PB time of 2.10.22 (38th). Jon Couson riding his first 50 decided he was going to slow at the end of the first lap and headed back to the hall. The overall event winner was Chris Fennell, The Independent Pedaler in 1.41.22 setting both a course record and Kent record.