Meet the Big Cogs France en Velo 2022 team

Rider Profiles

PAUL ASPINALL (Aspey)

Riding his Red Canyon, Aspey loves riding in all conditions and finishing with a Brewdog in his bar. Looking forward to an overseas trip having missed Ventoux after his accident.

 

TIM BENNETT (Lettuce)

Leaving his mountain bike at home, Tim will be on his De Rosa for this trip. Looking forward to completing the two longest days in the saddle and relaxing with a French lager.

 

RICHARD BLIGH-SMITH (Bligthy)

Generally found in the hills, Blighthy is excited about the second half of the challenge on his Giant touring bike. The odd glass of vino may be consumed en-route.

 

ANDY BYRNE (Byrney)

Byrney is another lover of hills (?) so will be pleased to get out of the flatlands of the Loire. A veteran of the Lands End – John O’Groats (LeJog) ride, he’ll be looking to refuel on Guiness after riding Sheffield’s finest Planet X.

 

PAUL CLARKSON (Clarky)

Clarky’s strong engine will see him through the long days on his Canyon. For fuel his preference is a lager.

 

CHRIS FARNWORTH (Farny)

A long term rider who introduced many of us to the sport through the ‘Highburton Superstars’ competition. Another who completed the LeJog ride, he’ll be on his beloved Colnago. Farny’s alcoholic preference is anything non-alcoholic.

 

IAN NOKE (Nokey)

The third LeJog badge holder, Nokey’s looking to get his bike over the 1,000 mile course interspersed with a glass of lager or two.

 

JONATHAN TAYLOR (Jonny Rocket)

Jonny’s riding his bike through France as he completes his training in the early stages of the ride. Another of the lager drinkers, like the rest of the group, he’s looking forward to seeing the sea in Nice.

 

ROB WILKS (Big Rob)

The youngster of the group, but by far the tallest, the ride was inspired by his impending 50th birthday. Riding his bike and hoping the saddle will stay on this time, Rob will also be enjoying a lager or two at the end of the day.

 

Support Van Drivers

 

JONATHAN LAYCOCK

Having recently retired, Jonathan kindly offered to drive and support the riders en-route. Looking forward to downtime in the evenings with a beer.

 

MILES HORSLEY

Usually found in snow on the piste, Miles has generously taken time off work to help assist us cycling the length of France. A glass or two of wine and beer may be imbibed once driving duties are over.