Another phenomenal turn out. This week we were split into three races, with the “oldies” going first. Dave Astles, Kevan and Graham all made their presence known at the front of the pack on various occasions but missed the decisive break of four riders which got away with about 4 laps to go and stayed away: they were v. well organised. Gary and I stayed in the bunch, wisely conserving our energy for the final sprint. Steve Thomas was out for his first race of the summer but couldn’t contest the placings, as technically he should have been in the younger race. I’m not sure how we all did but I know that Graham was the first WVCC rider home, beating Kevan by a few centimetres: Kevan doesn’t set out to be Graham’s lead out man but seems to fulfil the role admirably!
The second race was split into two because of numbers, with the over 40s setting off first. It was good to see Derek racing for the first time. Nick joined an excellent break away who through and off’d v. effectively: they managed to catch the under 40s bunch, at which point however they were effectively neutralised as they got mixed up in this bunch. Dave McKay tried a big effort at the start of the last lap but he got swallowed up by what was now an enormous pack. Nick, despite his 12 hours of mountain biking at the weekend and his efforts in the break, somehow still managed to be first WVCC rider home, with Dave McK, Dave Swindells, Craig, Chas, Richard Munro, John Conboy and Derek all coming in behind them: sorry I didn’t clock in what order, and sorry if I’ve missed anyone out!
As always there was lots of WVCC involvement in the organisation of the race; and within the ranks of supporters, with the junior Conboys and little Melissa shouting their encouragement from the stands.
Good report Eleanor and a great ride by Nick to get in the break.
The race was much better last night after Martin decided to split it into smaller groups. It was physically a lot harder, but there was much more space and we were all able to do turns on the front.
At one point, whilst on the front of the second group, I was accused of holding back to help Nick in the breakaway but the truth was I couldn't go any faster at that point!
Yes, much better splitting the over and under 40's – thanks Martin. Just a shame we caught the under 40's race – just shows how much faster you go when you all take a turn. Good fun though and nice to be in the action.
sound like it was a fast race again. hoppfully i'll be back down this tuesday coming. so i'll see every one there.
keep it up