Corlett is more renowned for his mountain biking

Julian Corlett won the Ellan Vannin Cycling Club's Appleby Sportive on Sunday, one of the Isle of Man's toughest cycling challenges.

Corlett completed the 100km course, including over 1,500m of ascent, in three hours 16 minutes and 27 seconds.

"It was a long and hard course but I went at my own pace, it was great to make it round first," Corlett said.

Mark Kelly came home 13 minutes down on Corlett in second, with Tony Varley a minute further back in third.

One hundred riders completed the full distance in the first ever running of the event.

We hope the event will grow in future years and attract riders from further afield. Almost like a road version of the End 2 End Richard Fletcher

Organiser Richard Fletcher said: "Julian's performance was exceptional. I think he shocked a few people it was so good."

It is hoped the new event will grow in future years and appeal to riders from around the UK.

"It is not just a race, it is a chance for anyone who has an interest in cycling to have a go," he added.

Result, 1 August

Appleby Sportive, 100km race

1. Julian Corlett 3 hours 16 minutes 27 seconds

2. Mark Kelly 3:29.38

3. Tony Varley 3:30.57

4. Neil Bellhouse 3:31.56

5. James Smettem 3:32.07

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