Julie Hooper is targeting the British 12-hour Time Trial Championship on home roads after double joy at the 100-mile title race.
The Cwmcarn Paragon stalwart took the honours last Sunday in the women’s 50-54 age and Paralympic categories on a demanding course in the Lake District.
The triumphs came 26 years after winning the 50ml championship as an able-bodied cyclist.
Julie was ninth quickest woman overall out of 40 in a time of 5hr 4min 56sec, but believes she could have gone faster on the lumpy circuit between Keswick and Cockermouth.
“I had to stop six times to stretch my back as I was in agony, so I reckon I could shave at least 30 minutes off my time and another 30 if I’d actually used the tri-bars, didn’t have a dodgy front wheel and had a helper to hand me a water bottle,” Julie explained.
“I had to ride in a road bike position as I couldn’t get on the tri-bars as something was wrong with the front wheel.”
“And I didn’t have a helper so the last 25 mile I was dehydrated and dreaming of water.”
“I’m looking forward to the British 12-Hour Championship next month on Welsh roads, and to, hopefully, having a helper and getting lots of cheers and support out on the course.”