It?s been over four years since Bermuda cyclists have had the opportunity to see the talents of Elliot Hubbard on display. But that will all change tomorrow when the former professional climbs onto his bike ? albeit for a little over a minute ? as he makes an appearance in an event he made his very own over the years.

The Bermuda Bicycle Association Hill Climb Championship takes place on the steep, twisting slope of the Fairmont Princess Hotel in Southampton, starting at 9 a.m., and while nobody expects the ?Hubbardman? to replicate his 57-second record, set exactly 10 years ago, just the fact that he has agreed to make an appearance has been enough to cause a stir of anticipation amongst the cycling fraternity.

Event organiser Greg Hopkins said yesterday: ?Just having Elliot there has added some spice to the event this year. It is fantastic that he has even agreed, with just a little persuasion, to do it.

?He has not been on the bike for some years and has only recently returned from law school. He has always been a class act, and I wouldn?t be surprised to see him ride well on Sunday. There is no pressure on him, the pressure is on everyone else.?

Hubbard himself wasn?t making any predictions when contacted yesterday. ?But,? he chuckled, ?I?m in it to win it.?

Starting at one minute intervals, the event will see riders make their way up the steep climb on the northern side of the hotel, negotiating two tight switchbacks before finishing outside the Windows restaurant.

Hubbard?s record time of 57 seconds has never come under threat but many of the Island?s top riders will be out tomorrow hoping to get close to the ?magical minute? with newcomer Mark Hatherly expected to set the pace after an impressive hill climb result in this year?s CD&P Grand Prix in September when he finished as the fastest local rider on the adjacent hill which took riders up to Gibbs Hill Lighthouse.

However, the diminutive rider will have to face a stiff challenge from the likes of mountain bike powerhouse Garth Thompson, and the fast improving Chelsea Goudge, both of whom are in top shape for the sports mountain bike season that starts in December.

Another to watch could be former May 24 Classic winner Wayne Scott.

With the top of the hill offering a superb view of the whole route, spectators will be watching closely to see who can claim Hubbard?s crown as the ?King of the Hill?.

Hopkins added: ?Anyone who under-estimates Elliot on Sunday will make a mistake. He is definitely not in shape but I watched him for many years, and as the old saying goes, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Well, Elliot Hubbard is tough.?