Bermudian powerhouse Conor White produced a resilient display on the punishing gravel sectors of the East Midlands, finishing within touching distance of the leaders at the 2026 Rutland–Melton CiCLE Classic.
On a day where the 187km course lived up to its reputation as "Britain's Belgian Classic," the Jakroo Handsling Racing rider navigated the brutal farm tracks and steep gradients of Rutland to secure a hard-fought result against a stacked international field.
The race, famous for its unique mix of off-road "special sectors" and rolling English countryside, was blown apart in the final 40 kilometres. After several breakaways were reeled in on the approach to the infamous Somerberg sector, a select group of riders managed to forge ahead.
Otto van Zanden proved the strongest of the elite escapees, timing his final move to perfection to claim a prestigious UCI 1.2 victory. The winner crossed the finish line in Oakham with a time of 5:06:03, narrowly fending off a charging chasing pack in a breathless finale.
Representing the UK-based Jakroo Handsling Racing, Conor White stayed in the thick of the action as the peloton fractured over the rougher terrain. Known for his time-trial prowess, White utilized his raw power to maintain contact with the main chasing groups as the race reached its crescendo on the final circuits around Melton Mowbray and Oakham.
White eventually crossed the line in 5:07:27, finishing just 1 minute and 24 seconds behind Van Zanden. The result marks a significant step forward for the Bermudian in the European spring classics, particularly given the high rate of attrition and mechanical failures that typically define this race.
White’s performance in the East Midlands follows a string of solid outings on the British domestic circuit, including a gritty top-35 finish at the East Cleveland Classic earlier this month.
The Bermudian is using the demanding UCI calendar in Europe to sharpen his form ahead of a major summer schedule on the international stage. With his ability to handle long distances and technical terrain clearly on display today, White remains a rider to watch as the road season intensifies.
|
