Dave came up with some random excuse for not writing today’s race report so handed the batten to me!!!!
Whilst the weather looked good, sunshine and no wind, it wasn’t really the best conditions for a TT, it was clammy, no air, and just plain horrible! There is normally some kind a wind, one way at the other giving you something to help or hinder you, not today!! This seemed to be a common theme for everyone.
The ladies had a separate event, with the first 30 riders taking part in the Manchester & district Ladies Event. Caroline and Emily were the only two WVCC representatives, I didnt speak to either before they left, but caroline finished with a respectable 1:11:23, and a fantastic 10th overall. I spoke to Emily after the event, she struggled with the heat and the post holiday blues and was a little disappointed going around 2 mins slower than her previous time on the same course and finished with 1:08:02, nevertheless an amazing 7th. Christine Murray was the winner with 1:01:25
Next the chaps, Alan Shutteworth was off first, he also complained about the heat and his fixed gearing choice and was dissapointed with his 1:12:32, Colin Carthy came home with the next fastest time with 1:04:03, a little slower that his previous Course PB but faster that his previous course best this year, I sense more to come from Colin. Stu Ward, on his 25 debut had a great ride with an amazing 1:02:45. Well done Stu. Next Came Chris Gilbertson, he also felt the conditions after 10 miles, and struggled on the back half finishing with a 1:01:16. Dave just missed out on a 57, finishing with 58:02, although he was the only one not to complain about the weather, then there was yours truly. There was some debate pre and post race if I had actually gone under the hour previously on Cheshire, everyone I spoke to said I had, however, I could find no evidence on the results. Nevertheless, I would have been dissapointed if I didn’t manage it today, despite the conditions as I am going better than I have ever gone at the moment. I was happy to finish with 57:32, although I really struggled to achieve the power I have been riding at recently, so I know I can improve.
At the time of writing, I don’t know who the winner was or and overall postitions as we left before the end.
well done all, see you next time.