Ben Granger Grabs Glory Under Glorious Rutland Sunshine at the Cicle Classic, 2025 Video of Finish Line and Photos.

Ben Granger Grabs Glory Under Glorious Rutland Sun at the Cicle Classic

Ben Granger First Place Cicle Classic 2025

 

The sun shone brightly on the rolling Rutland countryside today as the peloton tackled the demanding terrain of the Rutland-Melton CiCLE Classic. Spectators lined the roads, eager to witness the spectacle of one of the UK's most unique and challenging races, often dubbed the "British Paris-Roubaix" due to its numerous off-road sectors.

And the racing certainly lived up to its billing. From the start, the pace was relentless, with riders jostling for position ahead of the infamous farm tracks and gravel sectors that define this iconic event. The unpredictable nature of the course, with its sharp climbs, technical descents, and the ever-present threat of punctures, ensured a thrilling day of attrition.

As the miles ticked by, the leading group whittled down, with several key contenders falling victim to mechanicals or the sheer brutality of the route. The off-road sections proved decisive, testing bike handling skills and resilience to the limit.

In the final kilometres, a select group emerged, setting the stage for a captivating finale. It was Ben Granger of Mg.K Vis Costruzioni e Ambiente who ultimately proved strongest, crossing the finish line in a time of 4:17:44 to claim a well-deserved victory.

Hot on his heels, Mathis Avondts of Parkhotel Valkenburg secured second place, behind Granger. 

Dylan Hicks of Raptor Factory Racing finished in third place.

The top ten showcased a mix of talent, with Edward Morgan (Muc-Off-SRCT-Storck) and Adam Kelly (Mg.K Vis Costruzioni e Ambiente) claiming fourth and fifth respectively. Parkhotel Valkenburg continued their strong showing with Otto Van Zanden in sixth.=

Local hopes were high for the Wheelbase - Cabtech - Castelli team, and they delivered with Tom Martin finishing a respectable seventh, followed by Pieter Van Laer (Atom 6 Bikes - Decca Continental Team) in eighth. Scotland's Alfred George took ninth, with another Wheelbase rider, Tim Shoreman, completing the top ten.

The challenging nature of the race was evident in the gaps forming throughout the field, with riders battling not only each other but also the demanding course. A significant number of riders unfortunately did not finish, highlighting the true test of endurance and skill that the Rutland-Melton CiCLE Classic represents.

Today's edition will undoubtedly be remembered for the glorious sunshine that bathed the event and the compelling racing that unfolded. Ben Granger's victory is a testament to his strength and tactical acumen on a day that truly tested every rider to their limit. The crowds were treated to a fantastic spectacle, further cementing the Rutland-Melton CiCLE Classic's place as a highlight on the British racing calendar.