History
The Catford Cycling Club was formed back in April 1886, and when only a year old decided to hold a Hill Climb open to all amateurs.
It was held at Westerham Hill on August 20th 1887. The limit weight for bicycles was 35lbs. tricycles 45 lbs. and no gearing was less than 52ins.
This was the start of something that has been a part of the racing scene since. The 14th Annual Hill Climb also took place on Westerham Hill, but for the first time an automobile section was introduced and proved to be very popular.
In our 112 promotions of Hill Climbs, our event was first referred to as 'The Championship of England'. We have had privilege of holding the 'First National Hill Climb Championship', held under the R.T.T.C. rules in 1944. Since then we have promoted two more 'Nationals'.
We have used six hills in our history but this year we will back on Yorks Hill near Ide Hill in Kent, for the 68th time. It’s traditional to hold hill climbs in the Autumn. So on Sunday 12th October at 10:30am our 113th promotion will start. The race is run as a time trial with riders starting at one minute intervals to race over 707yds. Which in parts includes a gradient of 1 in 4, the top riders will cover this distance in less than two minutes. The weather is usually fine, the Kent county side is beautiful, and viewing the event is free. So why not come and experience the atmosphere and excitement of 'The Oldest Hill Climb in The World'.
