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Racing through Newport

Newport Nocturne

Around 14,000 spectators watched Malcolm Elliott win the 2007 Newport Nocturne on Saturday 1 September.

2007 winner Malcolm Elliott

The Newport Nocturne returned on Saturday 1 September. Britain's only floodlit bike race is held every other year and attracts some of the world's best cyclists. 2007's winner was 46-year-old Malcolm Elliott, who beat off competition from younger cyclists and bigger names to claim victory. Tony Gibb claimed second place and the 2005 winner Chris Newton came in third.

Sheffield veteran cyclist Elliott was surprised with his success: "I never even thought about winning it to be honest. I thought I'd be fighting for crumbs."

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"A terrific turnout, and that's what we measure it by... Give us a day or two and we'll be out on the bikes again talking about the next one."
Organiser Mick Jeggo

The Battle for Beijing time trial was also an exciting spectacle, with Olympian Rob Hales proving the eventual winner. However, local youngster Ian Holt also impressed, claiming a few scalps with a third place finish.

History

The event was first staged in 1970 as a race of some 109 miles, over a six mile circuit including Newport, Chetwynd Firs and Edgmond. It became part of the national championships, but a change in the rules stopping the championship races taking part in the same location for for than three years running meant that the race had to change.

Newport Nocturne cyclists

Floodlights were introduced in 1989, after current promoter Nick Jeggo noticed huge street lights illuminating motorway roadworks.

The race later fell out of favour with sponsors and was cancelled in 1992. But in 2001 it was revived and today it's one of the biggest draws in Britain's cycling calendar. It's all a far cry from the race's origins as a means for Michael Jeggo and his late business partner Doug Davies to publicise their new company Davies and Jeggo Motors.

last updated: 03/09/07

Have Your Say

What do you think about the Newport Nocturne?

M A Peters
why is Rob Hales not in this olympics

Andrew Perrin
My first time this year at Newport. It was easy to find (8 miles up the A41 from J3 M54, easy to park(?!), the locals were friendly and helpful (one bought me a pint!), Oh and the racing was superb. Lord Sir Huge Porter was on form,maiig an easy evening to enjoy. Even the weather, which has been dreadful this year, was perfect. The time trial was most enjoyable to watch and something that should stay on the menu. The final kermesse (I know, but I first saw this type of racing in Belge) was fascinating - and pave!. Good luck to Mr Elliott. The others seem to be more concerned about about each other. Tactics is part of racing and Malcom is about as experienced as a rider can be. Maybe next time have some 'chase down' primes? Just a suggestion. A superb evening and terrific organisation.Congratulations.Do it again!.

Susan Churm
Very well organised, as always. A lot of local people have worked very hard to stage it. Brilliant for Newport. Well Done!

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