The RIS Insulation Junior Tour of Wales, for me in 2003, was one of the biggest junior races on the calendar.  The terrain, the prestige, the organisation, the competition and the chance to race against foreign riders; it was exactly what I aspired to do.

It was always, and I’m sure will carry on being, a race in which many pro riders begin their cycling career.

One memory I have of my race, six years ago; I was contesting for the win on the penultimate stage into Brynmawr.  It finished up the 2-mile long climb into Brynmawr market square, in front of a huge sea of faces.  It’d already been a tough stage, but the long climb put in some serious hurt and demolished the field. I came in 3rd on the day after challenging for the sprint from a small group. 

But, as I finished and as I stood on the podium waving to the crowd, I thought ‘this is what I want to do, what I want to be….a bike rider’.  So, still to this day I think back, and I see that sunny Saturday afternoon was a turning point in my cycling career.  Not only had this race provided me with a launch pad to become a cyclist, it had given me the fire which still burns inside today – my passion for the sport.

Rob Partridge

The Junior Tour of Wales is promoted by C.C. Blaenau Gwent formerly known as Abertillery Wheelers under Welsh Cycling and British Cycling Regulations.

C.C. Blaenau Gwent are grateful to the many other clubs who assist every year.

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