VAN ZANDEN SPOILS ARMSTRONG’S PARTY IN OAKHAM THRILLER, 2026 Rutland CiCLE Classic.

VAN ZANDEN SPOILS ARMSTRONG’S PARTY IN OAKHAM THRILLER

In a dramatic finale that saw victory snatched away in the final 50 metres, Dutchman Otto Van Zanden (Azerion Villa Valkenburg) secured the first road race win of his career at the 2026 Rutland CiCLE Classic.

The opening round of the Rapha Super-League lived up to its reputation as "Britain's Belgian Classic," delivering a grueling five-hour test over the dusty farm tracks of Rutland and Leicestershire. Van Zanden triumphed from a three-man breakaway, narrowly beating Tom Armstrong (Wheelbase CabTech Castelli) by half a wheel in a sprint on the Oakham finish line.

The race rolled out of Oakham High Street under dry conditions that quickly turned the course into a dust-bowl. The early stages were marred by a significant incident behind the leaders, with approximately 80 riders reportedly caught up in a major crash, forcing a temporary neutralisation of the race.

Once the action resumed, Van Zanden’s Azerion Villa Valkenburg squad asserted their dominance. The Dutch outfit controlled the front through the Stuart Shaw laps, with Van Zanden showing his strength early by sweeping both contested King of the Windmill sprints.

The race splintered for good with 65 kilometres remaining. Van Zanden and Magnus Lorents Nielsen (Atom 6) forced a gap, followed shortly by a solo bridge from Tom Armstrong. By the time the trio hit the final 15-kilometre circuit in Oakham, they held a commanding lead of over two minutes.

Inside the final kilometre, the cat-and-mouse games began:

Van Zanden led the group out, refusing to give up the front.

Nielsen was the first to jump, but was quickly covered.

Armstrong launched his move with 50 metres to go, appearing to have the win in the bag.

However, in a stunning display of late-race endurance, Van Zanden clawed his way back to Armstrong’s shoulder and surged ahead in the final bike-length.

Local Results and Standings

Behind the lead trio, Oliver Dawson (JAKROO Handsling) claimed a career-best fourth place by winning the bunch sprint, followed closely by Sam Walsham of BC East Midlands.

Top 5 Results

Pos	Rider	Team	Time
1st	Otto Van Zanden	Azerion Villa Valkenburg	05:06:03
2nd	Thomas Armstrong	Wheelbase CabTech Castelli	s.t.
3rd	Magnus Lorents Nielsen	Atom 6 - Cycleur de Luxe	s.t.
4th	Oliver Dawson	JAKROO Handsling Racing	+1′19″
5th	Sam Walsham	BC East Midlands	s.t.

While Van Zanden takes the early lead in the Rapha Super-League, Armstrong is effectively the "man to beat" for the overall title, as Azerion Villa Valkenburg are not scheduled to compete in the remaining rounds. The series moves next to the Rapha Lincoln Grand Prix on May 10.

Rutland International CiCLE Classic Events Oakham Rutland 2026 Photos

Rutland International CiCLE Classic Event Oakham Rutland 2026 Photos

The race was started by The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Sarah Furness, Rutland County Councils Leader Christine Wise, Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns and Oakham's Town Crier at 11am.

The race is due to finish back here in Oakham at 3.15pm +

Town Crier Speaking to Rob Persani 

Rutland and Stamford Sound

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Rutland International CiCLE Classic Event Oakham Rutland 2026 Photos

Rutland International CiCLE Classic Event Oakham Rutland 2026 Photos

The race was started by The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Sarah Furness, Rutland County Councils Leader Christine Wise, Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns and Oakham's Town Crier at 11am.

The race is due to finish back here in Oakham at 3.15pm +

Town Crier Speaking to Rob Persani 

Rutland and Stamford Sound

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Age UK A Pillar of the Oakham High Street Community

Age UK A Pillar of the Oakham High Street Community

The Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland shop on Oakham High Street is more than just a place to find a bargain; it is a vital lifeline for the local community. While many still affectionately refer to the national movement as "Age Concern," the local branch operates under the Age UK banner, providing essential funding for services that support older residents across the region.

Located at 10 High Street, the Oakham shop is known for its bright, welcoming atmosphere and curated selection of pre-loved items. Whether you are a dedicated thrifter or just passing through, the store offers a wide variety of goods:

Quality clothing for men, women, and children.

A rotating stock of books, toys, media, and bric-a-brac.

Handbags, shoes, and jewelry to complete any outfit.

The shop is entirely step-free, ensuring that all members of the community can browse comfortably.

Every purchase made and every bag donated directly impacts the lives of older people in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. The funds raised through the High Street store help facilitate over 30 local services, including:

Information & Advice, confidential guidance on benefits and later-life planning.

Social Groups: Local "Coffee and Chat" sessions and "Men and Women in Sheds" projects.

Home Care & Wellbeing, support designed to help people maintain their independence at home.

The Oakham branch thrives on the generosity of local residents. You can support them in several ways:

Donate Goods, Clean, high-quality items are always welcome. 

If you are a UK taxpayer, remember to ask about Gift Aid, which adds 25% to the value of your donation at no extra cost to you.

Volunteer, the shop is always looking for friendly faces to help with merchandising, window displays, and customer service.

Spread the Word, letting neighbors know about the services available can help reach those who might be feeling isolated.

Address: 10 High Street, Oakham, LE15 6AL

Opening Hours:  Monday – Saturday: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Phone: 01572 492160

For more information on local services or to find out how to donate larger items like furniture, visit their official website:

Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland - Oakham Shop

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Treasure Hunting at Mowbray Lodge Sunday Yard Sale at 6 Catmos Street, Oakham, Rutland

Treasure Hunting at Mowbray Lodge Sunday Yard Sale at 6 Catmos Street, Oakham, Rutland

If you have an eye for a bargain or love a good Sunday morning rummage, make sure to set your alarm. A unique yard sale is taking place this Sunday, April 26th, at one of Oakham’s more historic residential spots.

Located at 6 Catmos Street, the sale is hosted at Mowbray Lodge, a building steeped in local history as evidenced by its 1827 date stone. You can’t miss the location just look for the large "Yard Sale" banner and the distinctive white puppy sculptures guarding the gate.

This isn't your average clear-out. The organisers have teased a wide variety of items that cater to collectors, families, and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Featured items include:

Collectables & Quality Bric-a-Brac: Perfect for finding that unique shelf-filler or vintage treasure.

A selection of pre-loved apparel.

A nostalgic trip for those who still appreciate physical media or are looking for children's entertainment.

Household Items & Tools, practical finds for the home and garden.

The sale is short and sweet, so arriving early is highly recommended to snag the best "quality bric" before it's gone.

When: Sunday, April 26th

Time: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm

Where: 6 Catmos Street, Oakham, Rutland

Note for Visitors With the major cycling events and road closures happening in Oakham town centre this Sunday, access to Catmos Street may be easier on foot. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy a morning stroll, grab a bargain, and soak up the community atmosphere

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/