Time trial silver for North Argyll cyclist

Alison Roger, a member of Oban’s North Argyll Cycling Club (NACC), finished the 10-mile circuit in 23 minutes and 58 seconds, just four seconds behind gold medallist Lorna Breetzke. 

Taking place in Elgin on May 12, the Scottish National Time Trial Championships saw top cyclists from across the country come together to compete for the top honours.

Alison, 51, who is originally from Elgin, was one of only two riders in the Senior Female Championship Race Category to finish the circuit with sub-24-minute times.

She said: “Initially, I was delighted, and then because I was four seconds off the win, I was a bit frustrated. But still, obviously, I’m pleased with the result.

“It was a good morning weather wise for the race, but I faced the inevitable headwind home. We had a nice downhill start, but that meant a tough climb to finish.”

Alison revealed she was facing several challenges going into the event.

She added: “I’ve moved on to a TT [time trial] bike this year, which has taken a bit of time to adapt to.

“I’ve also been struggling a little bit with an injury from last year. So it’s been an effort to manage that going into this season. I was happy with the way it went, that’s the first time I’ve done a 10-mile TT in under 24 minutes.”

Despite her success, Alison admitted she has only had a relatively short cycling career: “I did some triathlons before, but only really got into cycling in 2021, so my progression has been huge."

She credited the positive environment at the NACC with helping her develop, adding: “A lot of people at the club have been really supportive.”