Running up that hill…
Annual Red Marley Hill Climb draws big crowds to Easter event
More than 4000 spectators turned out at the Easter weekend to witness the classic racing action at the Red Marley Hill Climb.
Racers pitched themselves against the quarter-mile ascent in heats of up to four riders at a time for a total of 150 competitors – all available to view for just a £10 entry fee.
Machinery on display was an eclectic mix – with everything from classic motocrossers to vintage stripped down road bikes shod with knobbly tyres.
“Red Marley is unique,” commented Red Marley Hill Climb Club chairman, Karl Newman. “It’s a friendly bunch of blokes and we all want to see everyone make it to the top. While everyone is here to compete, for a lot of people, it’s a big achievement just to make it to the top.”
Throughout the day, the camaraderie among spectators and competitors was evident, despite the mud and rain that loomed over the paddock as the day began.
“There’s a real sense of community here that you don’t always see elsewhere. I’ve been coming back for 20 years now. I’m proud to be a part of the event and it’s great to see people go away with a smile on their face,” said local racer, Carl Pope.
Red Marley has roots dating right the way back to the 1920s, running for 50 years until interest began to wane. In 1971, a lack of entries spelled the demise of the historic hill climb, until it experienced a revival at the turn of the millennium.
In its current guise, Red Marley attracts between 4000 and 6000 attendees, with the current record standing at 13,000 for one particularly popular event.
Looking to Red Marley’s future, Newman added: “I think it’s very positive. This year we have people from France coming to race and there’s even a bloke who’s come over from New Zealand. When you’re attracting people like that, I think the future is bright.”
‘There’s even a bloke over from New Zealand’