Biking champ is King of the Mountain (From South Wales Guardian)

Biking champ is King of the Mountain

11:46am Wednesday 1st July 2009

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MATHEW Page from Llandovery has been crowned ‘King of the Mountain’ after winning the country’s biggest off-road bike race involving over 2000 competitors from across the world.

The 24-year-old postman won the 24 hour ‘Solo’ category at ‘Mountain Mayhem 2009’, held at Eastnor Castle beneath the Malvern Hills.

His 24 hours in the saddle saw him clock up over 250 muddy miles with 9,100 metres of climbing.

The former Llandovery College boy lives with his girlfriend Nia Harris, who acts as his “support crew” during races.

Matt said: “My final lap was half pain, half joy.

“I’d planned to propose to Nia if I won so that was a huge motivation to keep myself going.

“The event means so much to us both that it seemed like the perfect way to ask.

“Nia has put up with me and my cycling for the last eight years and supported me every step of the way.

“I would not have got where I am now without her and I am truly grateful,” he added.

Matt is now looking forward to competing in the MTB World Championships in America later this year, where he’ll take on the current best riders in the world.

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