The Catford Cycling Club’s first hill climb took place on August 20th 1887, with 24 riders attempting to conquer Westerham Hill in Kent. Back then, this hill was considered nearly impossible to ascend on a bicycle, especially with solid tyres and unmade roads, making it particularly treacherous for riders on ‘Penny Farthings’. The winner of that inaugural race was Mr S.F. Edge.

With such a great history, the Catford Hill Climb remains the oldest cycling race in the world. Thankfully today’s bikes are a lot easier to ride and even the potholed roads of South London and Kent are a great improvement on those of 1887!

From 1937 onwards the race has been set on Yorks Hill in Kent, leading up from Bough Beech Reservoir to Goathurst Common.

The 2026 event will be held on Sunday 11th October in the morning. The Bec Hill Climb takes place on the same day in the afternoon, if you fancy a double-challenge!

Team De Ver is a member of CTT (Cycling Time Trials) so club members are able to enter this open event. Registration is now open on the the CTT website.

Entry limit: 150. Distance: 1 mile. Official course map here.

Photo credit: Jorge Ginés