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After a summer of success in track and circuit racing, ESV Manchester started autumn 2025 with a standout hill-climbing victory.
Held since the 1920s, the prestigious Beard Cup takes places over a gruelling 1.7 kilometre climb (Strava Link) in the village of Diggle, Saddleworth.
This year it was hosted by Saddleworth Clarion and Manchester CTC. It was once won by legendary local track sprinter Reg Harris OBE (previously coming second age 15) , who is immortalised with a statue at the home of ESV, the National Cycling Centre in Manchester.
Riders set off at one-minute intervals with prizes for individuals in several age categories and bike types. The Beard Cup is the headline award and goes to the club whose three fastest riders – including at least one female – have the quickest cumulative time. Our trio of Rory Wyeth, Eamonn Postlethwaite and Isla Bestwick – all aged 14 or under – triumphed over more established junior and adult teams, securing the trophy by six seconds.
In total, nine ESV members took part. Rory led the way, finishing third overall and taking the prize for fastest male youth. Eamonn, George Lewis and Jacob Holsgrove made it a remarkable four ESV youths in the top 10. Isaac Matley, Earl Robinson and Kazuki Fairbrother completed an exceptional showing from the ESV boys. Isla and Philippa Irving impressed by finishing second and third respectively in the female youth category.
Full Results Below
