The Perfs Pedal is one of the semi-classics of domestic road racing. Established in 1964, this early-season race has become a pivotal fixture on the British cycling calendar, the opener to the domestic road racing season. It’s a race where legends like Sean Yates, Tim Harris, and Chris Newton have etched their names, a rite of passage for many aspiring to cycling greatness.
Looking at the history, the amount of top-quality riders that have raced and won the event over the years, I think that was just enough motivation, really, just to keep it going
In October, a significant chapter in the race’s history was seemingly coming to an end when Mick Waite, the long-standing organiser, announced his decision to stop running the race. This news, shared on The British Continental, sent ripples through the cycling community. Waite’s departure marked the end of an era for a race that had not only survived but thrived under his stewardship, adapting and evolving through the decades. It seemed as though yet another British classic falling by the wayside.
Enter Seb Ottley, a figure already known to our readers for his role in creating the RCR FatCreations Road Race, which emulates the course of the 1982 Goodwood world championships. Ottley’s deep-rooted passion for cycling and his commitment to the community have been evident in his successful management of the Goodwood races. Driven by his determination to preserve the legacy of the Perfs Pedal, Ottley stepped up to the plate to fill the void left by the departure of Waite. And, through tireless efforts behind the scenes, Ottley has now successfully ensured the continuity of the event, albeit under a new name: the Portsdown Classic. A welcome boost for the beleaguered domestic road racing scene.
Buoyed by this good news, The British Continental recently sat down with Ottley to discuss his journey in reviving the Perfs Pedal, a story that intertwines the challenges of race organisation with the rich tapestry of British cycling history…
Jack Rootkin-Gray wins the Perfs Pedal road race, 12 February 2023. Image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
The decision to step in
Although ‘only’ a humble National B road race, few British races carry the weight and history of the Perfs Pedal. And for Ottley, the race is more than just a competition; it’s a personal journey that traces back years.
“I think it was the interview I did with you originally about the Goodwood race that we set up,” Ottley begins, referencing our previous conversation. “Even back then, I said, long term, the dream would be to have a race as big as the Perfs. It’s on my doorstep.”
Ottley’s connection to the race and its former organiser, Mick Waite, runs deep. “I raced for Mick for 16 years [for the VC St Raphael team]. I was more than happy there. The only reason I left was to set up the RCR [Racing Club Ravenna]. Perfs has always been an important event to me.”
His involvement in the race, both as a competitor and a spectator, has given Seb a unique perspective on its significance. “I raced once back in 2008, I think, and then stupidly last year. It’s always been that event where I thought I potentially could get around in the bunch if I was on good form. I’ve always wanted to have a go at it.”
I messaged him probably within about an hour of hearing to get the ball rolling. It’s such an important race, for the whole calendar, everybody knows of it
The decision to take over the reins of the Perfs Pedal came swiftly after hearing about Waite’s choice to stop running the race. “Then, obviously, this came up, he stepped down. I messaged him probably within about an hour of hearing to get the ball rolling. It’s such an important race, for the whole calendar, everybody knows of it.”
Ottley’s recounting of the moment he decided to step in reveals not just a sense of urgency but a deep-seated passion for the race. “I just think it’d be such a shame to have lost it,” he reflects. This sentiment echoes the feelings of many in the British cycling community who view the Perfs Pedal as a cornerstone event.
“The final straw, I think, was the parking issue,” Ottley recalls. “He’s had issues with parish councils and bits and pieces over the years. Riders not maybe respecting the area, parking on verges, and stuff like that.”
Seb Ottley warming up at the Perfs Pedal road race, 12 February 2023. Image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
Overcoming challenges and obstacles
The path to saving the Perfs Pedal was strewn with challenges, each demanding a unique solution. Ottley’s approach to these obstacles was marked by a blend of pragmatism and innovation, driven by his deep understanding of the race’s dynamics and the broader context of British cycling.
My first initial thought was, obviously, if it’s not cost-effective, then it can’t happen
One of the primary hurdles was financial viability, a concern that Seb was acutely aware of. “My first initial thought was, obviously, if it’s not cost-effective, then it can’t happen,” he states, highlighting the economic realities of race organisation. This pragmatic approach underpinned his strategy, ensuring that the revival of the race was not just a passion project but a sustainable endeavour.
“I just started speaking to different people again, and then it ended up being through one of our riders that I found a sponsor. His dad runs a company,” Ottley recounts of his sponsorship search. The company, T&M Cable Services, was willing to provide the necessary financial support. “He came back to us and said, yes, he’s happy to basically pay what it takes to make it go ahead,” Ottley reveals.
Perfs Pedal road race, 12 February 2023. Image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
This moment was a turning point, transforming the race’s prospects from uncertain to feasible, underscoring the vital role that local businesses and personal connections play in sustaining grassroots sports events. Further sponsorship was then secured through Collingwood Services (medical cover) and Full Beans Cycling Company (media support).
The issue of chip timing was another aspect that Ottley chose to address with a practical mindset. “Mick had some issues with chip timing, he’d not been able to get anyone to do that. So we decided not to bother looking at that route because of the cost,” he reveals.
The relocation of the race headquarters to a local college was another strategic move. “The HQ has been moved to the local college. A lot more expensive than the village hall. It’s a college car park, so there are 500-odd parking spaces so no need to worry,” Ottley explains. This move, while more costly, addressed several logistical issues, including parking and space for race operations.
Course changes and adaptations
Re-examining the race route was a crucial aspect of ensuring the race’s survival and success. another a crucial puzzle piece in the quest for a more sustainable race.
We have reconfigured the course, relocating the finish line
“We have reconfigured the course, relocating the finish line,” he elucidates. “Rather than doing the five laps and then going on to a different course, at the bottom of the descent, the race will take a left and go up Crooked Walk Lane.” This change was not merely logistical; it was a strategic decision to maintain the race’s character while addressing practical concerns.
Perfs Pedal road race, 12 February 2023. Image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
The new course layout, while preserving the essence of the Perfs Pedal, also represents a significant shift in the race’s economics. Ottley explains that the change has “managed to shave off using 5 accredited marshals. The previous course had required 17, now it’s down to 12. Those last 5 that we’re going to not now need, they’re going to be the ones coming from the furthest distance so were going to be the most expensive ones. That could save about £250/£300 if you’re allowing £50/£60 a head for that.”
From Perfs Pedal to Portsdown Classic
In the evolution of any long-standing sporting event, changes are inevitable, sometimes even extending to its very name. The transition of the Perfs Pedal to the Portsdown Classic is a case in point, encapsulating a respect for tradition and an acknowledgment of a new chapter.
Ottley sheds light on the reasons behind this significant change. “Under Mick’s request, during that initial phone call with him, he said the date, obviously anyone can take that on now, whether it’s this region or any region. But one thing he said he’d like to keep was the Perfs name. If anyone took it on, he said, he wouldn’t particularly like the name to continue,” he explains. This decision, rooted in respect for Mick Waite’s legacy with the race, marks both an end and a beginning.
I think people will probably still refer to it as the Perfs because it’s obviously on such a similar course and the date is the same too
The new name, the Portsdown Classic, is not just a label but a symbol of the race’s ongoing journey. “I think people will probably still refer to it as the Perfs because it’s obviously on such a similar course and the date is the same too. But out of respect for Mick, I think it’s the right thing to do,” Ottley acknowledges. The renaming is also an opportunity for Ottley to imprint his own mark on the race. “Taking it on and adding a few adjustments, it sort of adds my signature, if you will, to it,” he says.
British Cycling’s role and the broader racing scene
Ottley acknowledges the support he has received from British Cycling in helping to keep the race alive. “Everyone at BC from the region and HQ have been really supportive in wanting to keep the event alive. I think it was in their interests to get it done as quickly as they could. I think the worry was that if it didn’t happen in ’24, there’s a chance it would just peter out, and come ’25, ’26, no one would bother taking it up then,” he says.
Yet he is candid about the wider challenges facing the sport an role of the governing body in solving them. “BC, as far as I understand, what their income is over the last few years, it’s just a steady decline so there’s no way they can just fix it,” he says. This statement reflects a broader concern in the cycling community about dwindling resources and the impact on grassroots events.
Perfs Pedal road race, 12 February 2023. Image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
The decline in BC membership and race licenses is a trend that Ottley views with a critical eye, pondering its implications. “Numbers are going down on BC membership, BC race licenses. Then there is a whole other article regarding whether Zwift is a good thing or a bad thing,” he muses. “The amount of people I know about, they’ll do a Zwift race over what I would class as a real race.” His observation touches on a fundamental shift in the cycling landscape, where virtual platforms like Zwift are changing how cyclists engage with the sport.
The biggest problem is this step between Nat A and Nat B
Ottley’s insights extend to the challenges of organising races at different levels, particularly the contrast between National A (Nat A) and National B (Nat B) events. “The biggest problem is this step between Nat A and Nat B,” he notes, highlighting the significant jump in organisational demands and costs. This disparity poses a dilemma for organisers like Ottley, who must balance ambition with practicality.
“The rules and regulations, for lack of a better term, the step up is so big,” he says, referring to the leap from organising smaller, local races to larger, national-level events. This escalation in requirements often comes with a proportional increase in costs, a daunting prospect for volunteer organisers.
“There’s a chap from London who got in touch who was speaking to me, wanted some advice about organising and stuff. He said he wanted to put on Nat A. Spoke to BC, ran up some bills, and he was close to, I think he said, £55,000.” For Ottley, such figures are daunting and often prohibitive for volunteer organisers, underscoring the need for a more sustainable approach.
He contrasts this with the financial realities of organising Nat B races like the Perfs Pedal. “Then, in a Nat B like the Perfs, like my race, I turned away 80 riders last year. I think Mick said that he turned 50-odd away from the Perfs,” Ottley notes. These races, while smaller in scale, often see high demand and can operate more sustainably, even if they lack the prestige and exposure of Nat A events.
Seb Ottley at the Perfs Pedal road race, 12 February 2023. Image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
Ottley suggests that a reevaluation of requirements for Nat A races could be beneficial. “If BC wants to improve, that’s where they need to put the money, if they can, or potentially reduce the requirements to put a Nat A on,” he proposes. This idea points to a potential pathway for making higher-level races more accessible to organisers and, by extension, to a broader range of competitors.
Personal motivations
His motivation to take on the task of reviving the Perfs Pedal was rooted in a deep-seated desire to preserve a piece of cycling history. “I just didn’t want to lose that. We’ve lost the name, but I didn’t want to lose that event out of the calendar,” he reflects. This sentiment underscores a sense of responsibility not just to the race itself but to the legacy it carries.
My wife was quite against it, because when I said the date, her first reaction was, ‘Well, that’s Christmas ruined’
However, the decision to take on this challenge was not without its personal implications. Ottley candidly shares the initial concerns from his family: “My wife was quite against it, because when I said the date, she jokingly said, ‘Well, that’s Christmas ruined.'” This glimpse into his personal life highlights the often-unseen sacrifices made by those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep local races alive.
Despite these challenges, Ottley’s passion for cycling and his commitment to the community shine through. “It’s an odd one with organising because it comes in waves. It is work, but it doesn’t really have much of an effect on my time regarding my work life and stuff. It might be an hour here and there on the computer and stuff,” he notes, downplaying the significant effort and time that goes into organising a race like the Perfs Pedal.
Rowan Baker at the Perfs Pedal road race, 12 February 2023. Image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
Reflecting on the importance of the Perfs Pedal in the British cycling landscape, Ottley’s words resonate with a sense of accomplishment and hope. “Looking at the history, the amount of top-quality riders that have raced and won the event over the years, I think that was just enough motivation, really, just to keep it going,” he says. This statement not only underscores the race’s significance but also highlights the importance of Ottley’s own passion for cycling history in ensuring the race’s continuity.
His vision for the future of the race is one that balances respect for its storied past with the practicalities of modern race organisation. “We’ve just had hits over the last few years, haven’t we, of ‘this has been cancelled, that has been cancelled, this team has folded, that team’s folded,'” he reflects. His awareness of the broader challenges facing the sport only strengthens his resolve to contribute positively to its future.
It’s a tale of overcoming adversity, of community rallying together, and of one individual’s determination to make a difference. “Being on my doorstep, something that I can do something about, I didn’t want to let it go without at least having a pop and having a bit of a fight to keep it going,” Ottley concludes, summing up the spirit that drives him and many others in the cycling community to keep domestic road racing’s rich heritage alive.
The Perfs Pedal is one of the semi-classics of domestic road racing. Established in 1964, this early-season race has become a pivotal fixture on the British cycling calendar, the opener to the domestic road racing season. It’s a race where legends like Sean Yates, Tim Harris, and Chris Newton have etched their names, a rite of passage for many aspiring to cycling greatness.
In October, a significant chapter in the race’s history was seemingly coming to an end when Mick Waite, the long-standing organiser, announced his decision to stop running the race. This news, shared on The British Continental, sent ripples through the cycling community. Waite’s departure marked the end of an era for a race that had not only survived but thrived under his stewardship, adapting and evolving through the decades. It seemed as though yet another British classic falling by the wayside.
Enter Seb Ottley, a figure already known to our readers for his role in creating the RCR FatCreations Road Race, which emulates the course of the 1982 Goodwood world championships. Ottley’s deep-rooted passion for cycling and his commitment to the community have been evident in his successful management of the Goodwood races. Driven by his determination to preserve the legacy of the Perfs Pedal, Ottley stepped up to the plate to fill the void left by the departure of Waite. And, through tireless efforts behind the scenes, Ottley has now successfully ensured the continuity of the event, albeit under a new name: the Portsdown Classic. A welcome boost for the beleaguered domestic road racing scene.
Buoyed by this good news, The British Continental recently sat down with Ottley to discuss his journey in reviving the Perfs Pedal, a story that intertwines the challenges of race organisation with the rich tapestry of British cycling history…
The decision to step in
Although ‘only’ a humble National B road race, few British races carry the weight and history of the Perfs Pedal. And for Ottley, the race is more than just a competition; it’s a personal journey that traces back years.
“I think it was the interview I did with you originally about the Goodwood race that we set up,” Ottley begins, referencing our previous conversation. “Even back then, I said, long term, the dream would be to have a race as big as the Perfs. It’s on my doorstep.”
Ottley’s connection to the race and its former organiser, Mick Waite, runs deep. “I raced for Mick for 16 years [for the VC St Raphael team]. I was more than happy there. The only reason I left was to set up the RCR [Racing Club Ravenna]. Perfs has always been an important event to me.”
His involvement in the race, both as a competitor and a spectator, has given Seb a unique perspective on its significance. “I raced once back in 2008, I think, and then stupidly last year. It’s always been that event where I thought I potentially could get around in the bunch if I was on good form. I’ve always wanted to have a go at it.”
The decision to take over the reins of the Perfs Pedal came swiftly after hearing about Waite’s choice to stop running the race. “Then, obviously, this came up, he stepped down. I messaged him probably within about an hour of hearing to get the ball rolling. It’s such an important race, for the whole calendar, everybody knows of it.”
Ottley’s recounting of the moment he decided to step in reveals not just a sense of urgency but a deep-seated passion for the race. “I just think it’d be such a shame to have lost it,” he reflects. This sentiment echoes the feelings of many in the British cycling community who view the Perfs Pedal as a cornerstone event.
“The final straw, I think, was the parking issue,” Ottley recalls. “He’s had issues with parish councils and bits and pieces over the years. Riders not maybe respecting the area, parking on verges, and stuff like that.”
Overcoming challenges and obstacles
The path to saving the Perfs Pedal was strewn with challenges, each demanding a unique solution. Ottley’s approach to these obstacles was marked by a blend of pragmatism and innovation, driven by his deep understanding of the race’s dynamics and the broader context of British cycling.
One of the primary hurdles was financial viability, a concern that Seb was acutely aware of. “My first initial thought was, obviously, if it’s not cost-effective, then it can’t happen,” he states, highlighting the economic realities of race organisation. This pragmatic approach underpinned his strategy, ensuring that the revival of the race was not just a passion project but a sustainable endeavour.
“I just started speaking to different people again, and then it ended up being through one of our riders that I found a sponsor. His dad runs a company,” Ottley recounts of his sponsorship search. The company, T&M Cable Services, was willing to provide the necessary financial support. “He came back to us and said, yes, he’s happy to basically pay what it takes to make it go ahead,” Ottley reveals.
This moment was a turning point, transforming the race’s prospects from uncertain to feasible, underscoring the vital role that local businesses and personal connections play in sustaining grassroots sports events. Further sponsorship was then secured through Collingwood Services (medical cover) and Full Beans Cycling Company (media support).
The issue of chip timing was another aspect that Ottley chose to address with a practical mindset. “Mick had some issues with chip timing, he’d not been able to get anyone to do that. So we decided not to bother looking at that route because of the cost,” he reveals.
The relocation of the race headquarters to a local college was another strategic move. “The HQ has been moved to the local college. A lot more expensive than the village hall. It’s a college car park, so there are 500-odd parking spaces so no need to worry,” Ottley explains. This move, while more costly, addressed several logistical issues, including parking and space for race operations.
Course changes and adaptations
Re-examining the race route was a crucial aspect of ensuring the race’s survival and success. another a crucial puzzle piece in the quest for a more sustainable race.
“We have reconfigured the course, relocating the finish line,” he elucidates. “Rather than doing the five laps and then going on to a different course, at the bottom of the descent, the race will take a left and go up Crooked Walk Lane.” This change was not merely logistical; it was a strategic decision to maintain the race’s character while addressing practical concerns.
The new course layout, while preserving the essence of the Perfs Pedal, also represents a significant shift in the race’s economics. Ottley explains that the change has “managed to shave off using 5 accredited marshals. The previous course had required 17, now it’s down to 12. Those last 5 that we’re going to not now need, they’re going to be the ones coming from the furthest distance so were going to be the most expensive ones. That could save about £250/£300 if you’re allowing £50/£60 a head for that.”
From Perfs Pedal to Portsdown Classic
In the evolution of any long-standing sporting event, changes are inevitable, sometimes even extending to its very name. The transition of the Perfs Pedal to the Portsdown Classic is a case in point, encapsulating a respect for tradition and an acknowledgment of a new chapter.
Ottley sheds light on the reasons behind this significant change. “Under Mick’s request, during that initial phone call with him, he said the date, obviously anyone can take that on now, whether it’s this region or any region. But one thing he said he’d like to keep was the Perfs name. If anyone took it on, he said, he wouldn’t particularly like the name to continue,” he explains. This decision, rooted in respect for Mick Waite’s legacy with the race, marks both an end and a beginning.
The new name, the Portsdown Classic, is not just a label but a symbol of the race’s ongoing journey. “I think people will probably still refer to it as the Perfs because it’s obviously on such a similar course and the date is the same too. But out of respect for Mick, I think it’s the right thing to do,” Ottley acknowledges. The renaming is also an opportunity for Ottley to imprint his own mark on the race. “Taking it on and adding a few adjustments, it sort of adds my signature, if you will, to it,” he says.
British Cycling’s role and the broader racing scene
Ottley acknowledges the support he has received from British Cycling in helping to keep the race alive. “Everyone at BC from the region and HQ have been really supportive in wanting to keep the event alive. I think it was in their interests to get it done as quickly as they could. I think the worry was that if it didn’t happen in ’24, there’s a chance it would just peter out, and come ’25, ’26, no one would bother taking it up then,” he says.
Yet he is candid about the wider challenges facing the sport an role of the governing body in solving them. “BC, as far as I understand, what their income is over the last few years, it’s just a steady decline so there’s no way they can just fix it,” he says. This statement reflects a broader concern in the cycling community about dwindling resources and the impact on grassroots events.
The decline in BC membership and race licenses is a trend that Ottley views with a critical eye, pondering its implications. “Numbers are going down on BC membership, BC race licenses. Then there is a whole other article regarding whether Zwift is a good thing or a bad thing,” he muses. “The amount of people I know about, they’ll do a Zwift race over what I would class as a real race.” His observation touches on a fundamental shift in the cycling landscape, where virtual platforms like Zwift are changing how cyclists engage with the sport.
Ottley’s insights extend to the challenges of organising races at different levels, particularly the contrast between National A (Nat A) and National B (Nat B) events. “The biggest problem is this step between Nat A and Nat B,” he notes, highlighting the significant jump in organisational demands and costs. This disparity poses a dilemma for organisers like Ottley, who must balance ambition with practicality.
“The rules and regulations, for lack of a better term, the step up is so big,” he says, referring to the leap from organising smaller, local races to larger, national-level events. This escalation in requirements often comes with a proportional increase in costs, a daunting prospect for volunteer organisers.
“There’s a chap from London who got in touch who was speaking to me, wanted some advice about organising and stuff. He said he wanted to put on Nat A. Spoke to BC, ran up some bills, and he was close to, I think he said, £55,000.” For Ottley, such figures are daunting and often prohibitive for volunteer organisers, underscoring the need for a more sustainable approach.
He contrasts this with the financial realities of organising Nat B races like the Perfs Pedal. “Then, in a Nat B like the Perfs, like my race, I turned away 80 riders last year. I think Mick said that he turned 50-odd away from the Perfs,” Ottley notes. These races, while smaller in scale, often see high demand and can operate more sustainably, even if they lack the prestige and exposure of Nat A events.
Ottley suggests that a reevaluation of requirements for Nat A races could be beneficial. “If BC wants to improve, that’s where they need to put the money, if they can, or potentially reduce the requirements to put a Nat A on,” he proposes. This idea points to a potential pathway for making higher-level races more accessible to organisers and, by extension, to a broader range of competitors.
Personal motivations
His motivation to take on the task of reviving the Perfs Pedal was rooted in a deep-seated desire to preserve a piece of cycling history. “I just didn’t want to lose that. We’ve lost the name, but I didn’t want to lose that event out of the calendar,” he reflects. This sentiment underscores a sense of responsibility not just to the race itself but to the legacy it carries.
However, the decision to take on this challenge was not without its personal implications. Ottley candidly shares the initial concerns from his family: “My wife was quite against it, because when I said the date, she jokingly said, ‘Well, that’s Christmas ruined.'” This glimpse into his personal life highlights the often-unseen sacrifices made by those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep local races alive.
Despite these challenges, Ottley’s passion for cycling and his commitment to the community shine through. “It’s an odd one with organising because it comes in waves. It is work, but it doesn’t really have much of an effect on my time regarding my work life and stuff. It might be an hour here and there on the computer and stuff,” he notes, downplaying the significant effort and time that goes into organising a race like the Perfs Pedal.
Reflecting on the importance of the Perfs Pedal in the British cycling landscape, Ottley’s words resonate with a sense of accomplishment and hope. “Looking at the history, the amount of top-quality riders that have raced and won the event over the years, I think that was just enough motivation, really, just to keep it going,” he says. This statement not only underscores the race’s significance but also highlights the importance of Ottley’s own passion for cycling history in ensuring the race’s continuity.
His vision for the future of the race is one that balances respect for its storied past with the practicalities of modern race organisation. “We’ve just had hits over the last few years, haven’t we, of ‘this has been cancelled, that has been cancelled, this team has folded, that team’s folded,'” he reflects. His awareness of the broader challenges facing the sport only strengthens his resolve to contribute positively to its future.
It’s a tale of overcoming adversity, of community rallying together, and of one individual’s determination to make a difference. “Being on my doorstep, something that I can do something about, I didn’t want to let it go without at least having a pop and having a bit of a fight to keep it going,” Ottley concludes, summing up the spirit that drives him and many others in the cycling community to keep domestic road racing’s rich heritage alive.
You can enter the race here.
Featured image: Ian Wrightson/The British Continental
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