Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  From the Desk of the President

•  Reduced Membership 1 October 2020 – 31 December 2020

•  Product Recall

•  Track Racing

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  AVCC 2021 Nationals – CANCELLED

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Report

Ian Morton

From the Desk of the President

Dear Members,

Well, 2020 Winter season was wrapped up on the weekend – in suitably winter-like conditions with the Breadalbane Mini Tour. Riders encountered strong head/cross wind, sleet, and sub-zero temperatures.

We were able to host 16 winter season races after Covid 19 restrictions eased in the ACT which still gave racers plenty of opportunities to score season points. The Winter season only lost 6 Races due to Covid 19 restrictions essentially cancelling all the races in April and May. Which, all things considered, was amazing.

Congratulations to Rosemary Robinson and Steve Crispin for taking season honours, and a massive thank you to all the riders that made it out to the races.

We as a club host the most races of all the cycling clubs in the region, and to see these still being well supported by club members is very pleasing to me, as President, and the club committee. Of course, we will always strive to have as many of you as possible come out and race, but we know especially this year things have been tougher than normal.

Now that spring is here (no honestly it is…) we can look forward to the return of the Criterium and Track seasons with crits start on the 6th of October, and of course we have the clubs premier event scheduled for 17-18 October the Gunning two-day event which this year kicks of road racing for the summer 2020-21 season.

So, again, thank you to everyone involved in making our season so strong, from the committee that organised the races, with some changes being made with seeking race approvals due to fire damaged areas making some races impossible, the volunteer marshals and race directors, Simon on first aid and the amazing Graham Hendrie that all combined to kept the events going and safe.

I look forward to seeing many of you out racing this spring and summer.

Kind regards

Seymour
ACT Vets Cycling Club President

Final Winter Season Points Table

Women	Points
Rosemary Robinson	41
Shirley-Anne Taylor	33
Linda Stals	32
Men	Points
Steve Crispin	100
David Dickson	72
Ian Morton	66

Reduced Membership 1 October 2020 – 31 December 2020

The AVCC has approved a reduction in membership fees for the period 1 October 2020 to 31 December 2020. The reduced fee is $60 and is available to both new members and non-financial members who wish to renew their membership for the last three months of the year.

The SportsTG membership portal has now been updated with the new membership fee for the remainder of 2020 (“Q4 Special Reduced Membership 2020”).

Kirsti McVay
Treasurer

Product Recall

Advance Traders (Australia) Pty Ltd – Sugek CS-M3007 7-speed Cassette fitted to Norco Storm 4 and 5 Bicycles MY2021

The Sugek CS-M3007 7-Speed Cassette installed on certain model year 2021 Norco Storm 4 and Storm 5 bicycles may cause the chain to skip unexpectedly, under extreme pedalling loads when using the 11 tooth cog.

For full details go to: https://www.productsafety.gov.au/recall/advance-traders-australia-pty-ltd-sugek-cs-m3007-7-speed-cassette-fitted-to-norco-storm-4-and-5-bicycles-my2021

Track Racing

Daylight saving will soon be with us, and that means VETS TRACK RACING!!!!!

Wednesday, 7th October: Track Practice Session

The track racing season will kick off with a Practice Session starting at 6.00pm on Wednesday 7 October. There will be no racing. All interested riders are invited – particularly new riders and track novices. It is a great opportunity to give track a try!

Please note that Narrabundah Track is a high-banked, oval track suitable only for conventional fixed gear track bikes with a high bottom bracket. We are unable to accommodate road bikes on this track.

Note:
+ Narrabundah track is located off Goyder Street in Narrabundah;
+ We welcome riders to try a high-banked track for the first time;
+ New riders can get practical advice on gearing, bunch riding & track etiquette;
+ Interested riders can try out a track bike (bring your own pedals and shoes);
+ Experienced riders can tune up the machinery & motor;
+ All riders can express their preference for events & races;
+ The practice session will be around 1hr 30 mins starting at 6.00pm;
+ There is no formal structure to the practice. We can assist with introductory training, if requested;
+ You can do your own thing, if you prefer.

A few basics on track etiquette for the practice session:
+ Use the designated track positions for cruising, tempo or fast pacing;
(The faster you ride the higher you should be positioned on track. Overtake outside other riders);
+ Hold your line – don’t make changes of speed or position unless you are clear of other riders;
+ Be very careful if you are crossing or moving on / off the track;
(It is your responsibility not to impede other riders in this situation);
+ Start from the fence and be aware of riders approaching;
+ It is best to wear clear or light tinted goggles;
(the shaded portions of track have very low visibility with regular sunnies);
+ All riders will need to be cautious, as there will be novice riders at the practice session.

Regular track racing will start on Wednesday 14 October.

Last year we had a small, dedicated track group with a total of 31 riders participating over the season. However, why should they have all the fun. If you have thought about it, come and give it a try. We would like at least ten more regulars.

Graeme O’Neill

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are legal requirements in place for people returning to the ACT from Victoria and particular places in New South Wales to self-quarantine.

Members who have been to any of these locations in the past 14 days should be complying with ACT Government quarantine restrictions.

Members should stay home if you have been feeling unwell or showing symptoms of COVID-19 or been in contact with someone who has felt unwell in the past 2 weeks.

AVCC 2021 Nationals – CANCELLED

The National Championships were scheduled to be held in South Australia during January 2021 in conjunction with the Tour Down Under.

Unfortunately, the AVCC have had to cancel the Nationals due to uncertainty arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of state border restrictions, there is no clarity regarding the ability of members to travel to South Australia in January.

RACING THIS WEEK:

Racing has concluded for the 2020 Winter Season. The next event will be the Criterium on 6th October.

RACE REPORT:

Breadalbane Mini-Tour – 26th September

Firstly I would like to congratulate all 19 riders that even turned up to Breadalbane. The weather forecast didn’t look promising and it didn’t disappoint. The conditions were far worse than terrible. 50 km westerly winds with a small amount of drizzle and light hail to set the scene. The temperature didn’t move above 4.5 and BOM said it felt like -3.

First off was the 20 km time trial and I’m sure there was some soul searching as they lined up at the start with the wind and rain in their face. The bright side to this was the ripper tail wind home. Sunscreen wasn’t required and even the magpies weren’t swooping in these conditions.

Off they went at 30sec intervals and we estimated we had about 35 to 40 mins to try and keep warm before the first rider would be coming past the finish line. Well Gerard Tiffin blew that estimate to pieces when we spotted his helmet coming at us at what seemed like about 80kph with an unbelievable result of 0.27.37 in those conditions. I spoke to a couple of other riders later and they confirmed Gerard went past them like they were standing still. Gerard was the only A grader. B grade placings went to Owain Tilley 0.33.40, David Dickson 0.36.18 & Ian Preston 0.39.00. C Grade, Darren Blackhurst 0.34.39, Carmine Spagnoletti 0.36.52 & Ed Logue 0.37.35. D Grade, Tony Beasley 0.36.44, Allan Bontjer 0.40.41 & Rob Langridge 0.43.42. E Grade Russell Marston 0.42.35, Alex Sommariva 0.42.57 & Ian Morton 0.47.36.

After about a 45 minute lunch interval to get the blood circulating and some of the chill out of the bones we commenced the 50 km road race to Gunning and back. The conditions hadn’t improved and understandably there were a couple of non-starters. Gerard decided it wasn’t worth racing himself and along with a couple of others headed home. That left 16 brave souls.

Apparently heading out into the wind there was a lot of time spent in the small chain ring even though the course was fairly flat while the return trip was a different story. One of the C grade riders was astounded at the amount of time Ian McVay spent out front on his own. Well done Ian.

Congratulations to all that participated and this years Breadalbane Mini Tour which was another one to remember. At least it didn’t snow like last year.

Thank you to the marshalls for their assistance throughout the day, Graham Hendrie, Mark Terracini, Chris Copeland, Simon Costello, Gavin Stephens.

Steve Simms,
Race Director

Detailed Results

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  Replacement Marshall for Breadalbane

•  Reduced Membership 1 October 2020 – 31 December 2020

•  Large section of LBG shared path to be re-surfaced

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  Track Racing

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  AVCC 2021 Nationals – CANCELLED

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Report

Ian Morton

Replacement Marshall for Breadalbane

A replacement Marshall is required for the Breadalbane race this Saturday. A lift can be arranged if required.

If you can assist, please let the Race Committee know at race.committee@actvets.cc

Reduced Membership 1 October 2020 – 31 December 2020

The AVCC has approved a reduction in membership fees for the period 1 October 2020 to 31 December 2020. The reduced fee will be $60 and will be available to both new members and non-financial members who wish to renew their membership for the last three months of the year.

The $60 membership fee will be available in the SportsTG Membership Portal on 1 October 2020; until then the only membership option for new and renewing racing members is the current $125 fee. From 1 January 2021, membership renewals will only be available for the calendar year (the 2021 membership fee is yet to be determined).

Kirsti McVay
Treasurer

Large section of LBG shared path to be re-surfaced

Work to resurface a section of the shared path around Lake Burley Griffin (highlighted in yellow) – from the cycle underpass on Lady Denman Drive to the West Basin – will commence on Monday 21/09/2020 and run through to Friday 30/09/2020 (weather permitting).

Cyclists should try to avoid using this path while the work is carried out.

If it is absolutely necessary to use the path during this time cyclist will be required to dismount and be escorted around the worksite.

This section of path is long overdue for some much-needed maintenance. Let’s hope this resurfacing will have a big impact on the safety of the path and our enjoyment of this iconic ride.

From the Desk of the Handicapper

It was another perfect day for racing and riders responded with well-populated bunches in all grades–great to see. The ride out was perfect but things went wrong for me on the way to Condor Creek. A soft back tyre was slowing my progress so I put up my hand but there was no neutral service, team car or even a well-meaning spectator to help out. I must note that a 4WD driver did stop and offer to help, however. The pump in the van got my spare up to a decent pressure so I joined the bunch as a spectator from the back. The race ended in bizarre circumstances with Howard Galloway rolling off the front and never being challenged. Behind him there was some serious sandbagging going on and not since the Brisbane River burst its banks in 2011 have we seen anything like it.

Returning to the finish, I announced my spectator status so as not to interfere with the timing only to be told by the race director “You can’t DNF twice!”.

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

Track Racing

Daylight saving will soon be with us, and that means VETS TRACK RACING!!!!!

Wednesday, 7th October: Track Practice Session

The track racing season will kick off with a Practice Session starting at 6.00pm on Wednesday 7 October. There will be no racing. All interested riders are invited – particularly new riders and track novices. It is a great opportunity to give track a try!

Please note that Narrabundah Track is a high-banked, oval track suitable only for conventional fixed gear track bikes with a high bottom bracket. We are unable to accommodate road bikes on this track.

Note:
+ Narrabundah track is located off Goyder Street in Narrabundah;
+ We welcome riders to try a high-banked track for the first time;
+ New riders can get practical advice on gearing, bunch riding & track etiquette;
+ Interested riders can try out a track bike (bring your own pedals and shoes);
+ Experienced riders can tune up the machinery & motor;
+ All riders can express their preference for events & races;
+ The practice session will be around 1hr 30 mins starting at 6.00pm;
+ There is no formal structure to the practice. We can assist with introductory training, if requested;
+ You can do your own thing, if you prefer.

A few basics on track etiquette for the practice session:
+ Use the designated track positions for cruising, tempo or fast pacing;
(The faster you ride the higher you should be positioned on track. Overtake outside other riders);
+ Hold your line – don’t make changes of speed or position unless you are clear of other riders;
+ Be very careful if you are crossing or moving on / off the track;
(It is your responsibility not to impede other riders in this situation);
+ Start from the fence and be aware of riders approaching;
+ It is best to wear clear or light tinted goggles;
(the shaded portions of track have very low visibility with regular sunnies);
+ All riders will need to be cautious, as there will be novice riders at the practice session.

Regular track racing will start on Wednesday 14 October.

Last year we had a small, dedicated track group with a total of 31 riders participating over the season. However, why should they have all the fun. If you have thought about it, come and give it a try. We would like at least ten more regulars.

Graeme O’Neill

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are legal requirements in place for people returning to the ACT from Victoria and particular places in New South Wales to self-quarantine.

Members who have been to any of these locations in the past 14 days should be complying with ACT Government quarantine restrictions.

Members should stay home if you have been feeling unwell or showing symptoms of COVID-19 or been in contact with someone who has felt unwell in the past 2 weeks.

AVCC 2021 Nationals – CANCELLED

The National Championships were scheduled to be held in South Australia during January 2021 in conjunction with the Tour Down Under.

Unfortunately, the AVCC have had to cancel the Nationals due to uncertainty arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of state border restrictions, there is no clarity regarding the ability of members to travel to South Australia in January.

RACING THIS WEEK:

Saturday, 26th September: Breadalbane Mini-Tour

Note: The mini-Tour starts at 10:00 am.
There are no shops at Breadalbane so bring own food and drink as required. After race coffee and cake supplied.

Where: Drive to Gunning, then Cullerin Road to Breadalbane. Or, Federal Highway to Collector then Breadalbane Road to Breadalbane. Or, Federal Highway – Hume Highway – Cullerin Road.
Park at community hall.
When: 10:00 am.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
20km TT – full time trial kit allowed, followed by 50km Graded Scratch.

Race Director: Steven Simms Contact: Email: steve.simms56@gmail.com    Ph 0412 601 605

Marshals: Mark Terracini, Chris Copeland, Simon Costello, vacant

Framework for “Return to Play in a COVID-safe Environment”

This Framework details how cycling events will be delivered by the ACT Veterans Cycling Club to meet the recommendations of Canberra’s Recovery Plan. From 19 June 2020, Stage 2.2 allows for groups of no more than 100 participants. Refer to the ACT Government guidelines at http://www.covid19.act.gov.au.

Stage 2.2 & 3 Arrangements

• On the day of the event, the race Director will be responsible for ensuring that participants follow these guidelines. Where a participant fails to comply they will be asked to leave the event.
• Any rider who is feeling unwell should not participate. If a rider experiences symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, sore throat, and tiredness, they should stay at home. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptom Checker is available at https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker/tool/basic-details.
• Riders with higher risks from Covid19 are advised not to participate:
  • People aged 70 years and over;
  • People aged 65 years and over with chronic medical conditions;
  • People with compromised immune systems; and
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50 with one or more chronic medical conditions.
• Race Officials will maintain 1.5m separation and hygiene standards during event setup, running and shutdown. When handling equipment such as signs and radios, Officials are to maintain hygiene by cleaning, wearing gloves and/or regular hand cleaning.
• The Club will organise first aid at each event provided by either a professional organisation or by a Club member with a current first aid certificate.
• Riders and spectators are to maintain a distance of 1.5m from other participants while at the event.
• Hand hygiene is imperative and hand sanitiser will be available at the event.
• Post-race refreshments will be provided. Members should bring their own coffee mug.
• No physical contact. Participants are to refrain from shaking hands, pats on the back, etc.
• If any rider feels unwell in the two weeks following the race, they must advise the Race Committee who will follow up with health authorities. The Rider Management System is used to record event attendees and has their contact details.

Thanks,

ACTVets Committee

RACE REPORT:

Graded scratch – Uriarra Homestead – 19th September

The rain kept away, and good conditions prevailed for this week’s graded scratch at Uriarra Homestead. There was a healthy turnout of 64 riders with more than 10 starters in most grades. Magpies were also out in force with several riders at the wrong end of vicious attacks on the way to the event.

Eleven started in A grade. By the time they had returned from the crossing Steve Crispin and Bradley Peppinck had prised open a small gap and at the end of the first lap were well in front. But by the end of lap two, Steve was well over a minute ahead and comfortably took out the win. Brad was still able to secure second with Christophe Barbaret and Nigel Smith inseparable at the finish for third and fourth.

B grade had the largest group of the day with 15 riders and seemed to move as one for most of the race. However, by the finish line, 6 riders had broken free with Ben Healy, David Dickson and Bruce Goodspeed taking line honours in a tightly contested sprint.

The pace was on from the start for the 14 riders in C grade. Corey Beatson had a few metres at the end of lap one but was quickly pulled in. Ed Logue, Luke Healy and Brian Peak were just clear by the end and finished the sprint for the line in that order.

D grade, with 11 riders, had split by the end of lap one with a strong group of 5 in the lead. But by the finish, various gaps had appeared with Howard Galloway seven seconds in front of Des Brown with Tony Beasley a little way back at third.

E and F grades departed together. The race for E was not dissimilar to that of D with 11 starters and a lead group of 5 riders after lap one. But at the end, Alex Sommariva proved too strong to finish first, four seconds ahead of Russell Marston. Terry Moore and Lance Purdon were close behind and came in with similar gaps. Mijo Spoljaric in F grade was the sole finisher from two therefore taking first place.

A thankyou to the ACT Police who sent out a motorcycle traffic unit to monitor driver behaviour during the race. This resulted in the officer patrolling the entire course and issuing several warnings to drivers.

Many thanks to marshals John Paul De Souza at Condor, Robert Brunato at the Crossing and to Christopher Short and Matt Hinchcliffe at the start/finish.

Also, thanks to Simon Whitehead – first aid, Graham Hendrie – timekeeping and to Ian McVay – general sorting out.

David Stewart-Thomson,
Race Director

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  Tandem Cycling Come and Try with Fitability

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  AVCC 2021 Nationals

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Report

Ian Morton

From the Desk of the Handicapper

Saturday’s crit races welcomed back more long-term members after long breaks. Great to see you both back, Steve Jones and Howard Galloway.

Promotions
– Des Brown E to D crit

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

Tandem Cycling Come and Try with Fitability – This Saturday

Many of you will have seen tandems at Vet’s races and out and about riding. Fitability will be holding a come and try tandem morning on Saturday 19th September starting at 9:30am till 12 noon at Stromlo Criterium Circuit.

This is an opportunity for confident riders to trial riding at the front of a tandem bike, or for people with a disability to try riding at the back.

Instruction on piloting as well as disability specific information will be provided by experience pilots and volunteers.

This is a great opportunity for people to turn up and see if piloting a tandem is something they enjoy and volunteer to share with riders with vision impairment or other disabilities.

Fitability are providing tandem bikes in a range of sizes. All you need to bring with you is your own helmet and shoes and a willingness to give something new a try. More information about Fitability Tandem Riding, a Pedal Power program can be found at https://www.pedalpower.org.au/fitability/, email: Fitability.act@gmail.com or call Lindy on 0402 113 836

Rosemary Robinson

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are legal requirements in place for people returning to the ACT from Victoria and particular places in New South Wales to self-quarantine.

Members who have been to any of these locations in the past 14 days should be complying with ACT Government quarantine restrictions.

Members should stay home if you have been feeling unwell or showing symptoms of COVID-19 or been in contact with someone who has felt unwell in the past 2 weeks.

AVCC 2021 Nationals

RACING THIS WEEK:

Saturday, 19th September: Uriarra Homestead Graded Scratch

Important Note: We have requested traffic police to attend the event to keep an eye on motorists. Riders should ensure that they are obeying the road rules and maintaining social distancing at the finish.

Where: Assemble at Uriarra Rd / Brindabella Rd, T-Junction. From North Canberra slightly faster Coppins crossing & right onto Uriarra Road. From Sth Canberra follow Cotter Road down to bridge crossing, turn right onto Brindabella Road.
When: 1:30 pm.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
Two laps of Uriarra Homestead – top of Uriarra Crossing – Condor Creek – Homestead.

Race Director: David Stewart-Thomson Contact: Email: david.stewart.thomson@gmail.com    Ph 0435 320 506

Marshals: John Paul De Sousa ETC, Christopher Short ETC, Robert Brunato ETC, Matt Hinchcliffe

Framework for “Return to Play in a COVID-safe Environment”

This Framework details how cycling events will be delivered by the ACT Veterans Cycling Club to meet the recommendations of Canberra’s Recovery Plan. From 19 June 2020, Stage 2.2 allows for groups of no more than 100 participants. Refer to the ACT Government guidelines at http://www.covid19.act.gov.au.

Stage 2.2 & 3 Arrangements

• On the day of the event, the race Director will be responsible for ensuring that participants follow these guidelines. Where a participant fails to comply they will be asked to leave the event.
• Any rider who is feeling unwell should not participate. If a rider experiences symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, sore throat, and tiredness, they should stay at home. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptom Checker is available at https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker/tool/basic-details.
• Riders with higher risks from Covid19 are advised not to participate:
  • People aged 70 years and over;
  • People aged 65 years and over with chronic medical conditions;
  • People with compromised immune systems; and
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50 with one or more chronic medical conditions.
• Race Officials will maintain 1.5m separation and hygiene standards during event setup, running and shutdown. When handling equipment such as signs and radios, Officials are to maintain hygiene by cleaning, wearing gloves and/or regular hand cleaning.
• The Club will organise first aid at each event provided by either a professional organisation or by a Club member with a current first aid certificate.
• Riders and spectators are to maintain a distance of 1.5m from other participants while at the event.
• Hand hygiene is imperative and hand sanitiser will be available at the event.
• Post-race refreshments will be provided. Members should bring their own coffee mug.
• No physical contact. Participants are to refrain from shaking hands, pats on the back, etc.
• If any rider feels unwell in the two weeks following the race, they must advise the Race Committee who will follow up with health authorities. The Rider Management System is used to record event attendees and has their contact details.

Thanks,

ACTVets Committee

RACE REPORT:

Stromlo Criterium – 12th September

With the closure of Orroral Valley, it was an opportunity to get in some much needed Criterium practice in preparation for the upcoming Crit season starting next month.

Conditions were perfect for the race, warm, sunny and only a light headwind up the front straight. The only major challenge on the day was the proliferation of Runners, Random Pedestrians, Kids on Bikes, Small Children and Dogs that were wandering around (and on) the track. At least there were no Kangaroos to contend with.

A and C Grade started the proceedings. A Grade proved the most combative with a series of attacks establishing a break only to be reeled back in again. In the end, Steve Crispen and Gerard Tiffen got a two man break towards the end with Gerard winning the final sprint. Marc Vroomans came in third.

C Grade mostly stayed together. A couple of attacks early on were pulled back in. The race came down to a bunch sprint with Corey Beatson taking the win ahead of Gavin Stephens and Rodney Welsh.

The next event was B and D Grade. B Grade stayed together for most of the event. Ben McDuff got up ahead of Ed Logue and Chris Nolan.

In D Grade, Howard Galloway and Frank O’Sullivan got a break late in the race but came back to the bunch. A break of three then got out with Frank taking the win over Philip Walker and Liz Lowe holding on for the placings.

By the time of the last event of the day, the various hordes had dispersed so I only had to content with keeping an eye on the riders (much less stressful). E Grade kept most of the bunch together with Des Brown setting the pace. In the end, Alison Hale put in a strong sprint at the finish ahead of Des and Greg Mitchell.

F and Grade rode together as a group with Ed Joliffe taking the win followed by Dennis Puniard and Nigel Wines. In G Grade, Mike Spolojaric came in ahead of Bernie Crowe

Thanks to Terry Moore for assisting at the finish line, Phill Coulton for unlocking and locking the shed and Simon the First Aider who’s services were fortunately not required.

The correct placings for B Grade on Saturday were as follows:

1. Ben McDuff
2. Stuart Roesler
3. Ed Logue

Ian Morton,
Race Director

Lost and Found

Found at Stromlo on Saturday;

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  Tandem Cycling Come and Try with Fitability

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  AVCC 2021 Nationals

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Report

Ian Morton

From the Desk of the Handicapper

What a difference a year makes.

Conditions were diabolical for last year’s race, as 50km/h winds created dust storms, blew riders off the road and forced loads riders to DNF. This year was cycling heaven and close to 60 riders battled out the traditional end-of-the-bitumen and back course. As handicapper, I tried to make it as hard as possible for A+++ riders Steve Crispin and Tristen Dimmock, but they rose to the challenge to take only 80 minutes for the 50.5km course and finish only 3 minutes behind the winner. C grader Ben Healy took line honours, continuing on with his great form in last week’s age champs where he finished among the A and B graders. His time was equal to the best of the B2 riders and as he had an extra 5 minutes up his sleeve, it was a comfortable victory, He gapped his C grade team member Carmine Spagnoletti by 30 seconds on the Three Sisters to home leg. In his 2nd Vets race ever Carmine completed last year’s Iron Mike in 2 hours, so he not only recovered from the shock of last year’s ordeal and not retire from racing forever, but also improved his time by 24 minutes. Third was B2 rider Rowan Walker in only his 5th race.

Bizarrely, a 50km handicap with 800m of climbing doesn’t put off some riders making their season debuts, and we welcomed back Charles Nicholl (after a 5-year break), Ali Roche, D grader Sally Thomson, who was 5th overall!, and Dale Kleeman.

Des Brown put in another enigmatic performance. As cyclists, we all know about how much energy can be saved by riding in a bunch, but for Des, there’s no difference whether he’s in the bunch or not as he was discarded well before the Three Sisters descent, but then stalked the D grade bunch all the way (although he doesn’t appear in Seymour’s photos at the turn) to the finish 4th out of a bunch of 9. Des gets the tenacity award.

Also putting in strong performances were newcomers, both in B grade, Al Raitt (11th) and Peter Zygadlo (25th).

Promotions this week:
– Ben Healy C to B
– Christophe Barberet B to A

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

Tandem Cycling Come and Try with Fitability

Many of you will have seen tandems at Vet’s races and out and about riding. Fitability will be holding a come and try tandem morning on Saturday 19th September starting at 9:30am till 12 noon at Stromlo Criterium Circuit.

This is an opportunity for confident riders to trial riding at the front of a tandem bike, or for people with a disability to try riding at the back.

Instruction on piloting as well as disability specific information will be provided by experience pilots and volunteers.

This is a great opportunity for people to turn up and see if piloting a tandem is something they enjoy and volunteer to share with riders with vision impairment or other disabilities.

Fitability are providing tandem bikes in a range of sizes. All you need to bring with you is your own helmet and shoes and a willingness to give something new a try. More information about Fitability Tandem Riding, a Pedal Power program can be found at https://www.pedalpower.org.au/fitability/, email: Fitability.act@gmail.com or call Lindy on 0402 113 836

Rosemary Robinson

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are legal requirements in place for people returning to the ACT from Victoria and particular places in New South Wales to self-quarantine.

Members who have been to any of these locations in the past 14 days should be complying with ACT Government quarantine restrictions.

Members should stay home if you have been feeling unwell or showing symptoms of COVID-19 or been in contact with someone who has felt unwell in the past 2 weeks.

AVCC 2021 Nationals

RACING THIS WEEK:

Saturday, 12th September: Stromlo Criterium

Due to the closures at Orroral Valley, we will be running a Criterium this weekend to help everyone get ready for the upcoming Crit season.

Where: Stromlo Forest Park
When: 1:30 pm.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
A/C: 1.30am 50 mins + 2 laps
B/D: 2.30am 40 mins + 2 laps
E/F/G: 3.20am 30 mins + 2 laps

Race Director: Ian Morton Contact: Email: mortoni@optusnet.com.au    Ph 0411 112 007

Marshals: If I could have some assistance from anyone pre or post race.

Framework for “Return to Play in a COVID-safe Environment”

This Framework details how cycling events will be delivered by the ACT Veterans Cycling Club to meet the recommendations of Canberra’s Recovery Plan. From 19 June 2020, Stage 2.2 allows for groups of no more than 100 participants. Refer to the ACT Government guidelines at http://www.covid19.act.gov.au.

Stage 2.2 & 3 Arrangements

• On the day of the event, the race Director will be responsible for ensuring that participants follow these guidelines. Where a participant fails to comply they will be asked to leave the event.
• Any rider who is feeling unwell should not participate. If a rider experiences symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, sore throat, and tiredness, they should stay at home. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptom Checker is available at https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker/tool/basic-details.
• Riders with higher risks from Covid19 are advised not to participate:
  • People aged 70 years and over;
  • People aged 65 years and over with chronic medical conditions;
  • People with compromised immune systems; and
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50 with one or more chronic medical conditions.
• Race Officials will maintain 1.5m separation and hygiene standards during event setup, running and shutdown. When handling equipment such as signs and radios, Officials are to maintain hygiene by cleaning, wearing gloves and/or regular hand cleaning.
• The Club will organise first aid at each event provided by either a professional organisation or by a Club member with a current first aid certificate.
• Riders and spectators are to maintain a distance of 1.5m from other participants while at the event.
• Hand hygiene is imperative and hand sanitiser will be available at the event.
• No physical contact. Participants are to refrain from shaking hands, pats on the back, etc.
• If any rider feels unwell in the two weeks following the race, they must advise the Race Committee who will follow up with health authorities. The Rider Management System is used to record event attendees and has their contact details.

Thanks,

ACTVets Committee

RACE REPORT:

Iron Mike – 5th September

Conditions were perfect, sunny with a North Westerly breeze for our own “Spring Classic”, the Iron Mike, which has been running in various forms for over 25 years. The current trophy goes back to 1994, but the race started well before that. The race was named after Mike Paral, who rode with the Canberra Old Boys (COBACC) before it merged with the Canberra Wests to form the Canberra Cycling Club. Mike died in March 1983.

A field of 54 riders lined up for the graded handicap starting from the western side of Mt Stromlo and running out to the end of the tar and back for a distance closer to 50km than the advertised 60km.

A lone F grade, Cat Riley was sent off at 1.33pm with a 50 min start over the A graders, she was the first to the turn around point, and was still in the mix on the return leg until the climb up the 3 sisters.

E grade with 6 riders was split 50/50 into E1 and E2, with E2 being sent off 10 mins after F grade and E1 a further 12 minutes behind E2. Looking at the results the E graders were hard done by with this handicap.

D grade with 10 riders set off 6 minutes after E2 and C grade with 13 riders also had 6 minutes to make up on D grade.

B grade had the largest field with 18 riders, so the decision to split them was made and B2 with 10 riders rolled out 5 minutes after C grade, whilst the remaining 8 B1 riders had to wait another 3 minutes.

A grade was split with 4 riders in A2 starting 3 minutes behind B1 and 5 minutes in front of the 2 A1 riders who rolled out around 2.23pm.

In the end the handicapper got it pretty close with representation from A to D grades in the top 10 places. Despite a machine like effort from Steve and Tristan and the (as expected) fastest times – 1hr 20 mins 18 secs and 1 hr 20mins 22 secs, the 2 A1 riders placed 6th and 7th, less than a minute behind the 1st female and 2nd D grader Sally Thomson. Andrew Osborne, who was in two minds about racing after had being locked out of his bike shed was on his commuting bike – an Enigma with touring racks, and despite the weight penalty he still finished a very credible 4th. Rowan Walker from the B2 bunch was not able to catch the 2 C graders, Ben Healy and Carmine Spagnoletti, who finished in that order. Ben’s winning ride time was 1 hr 33 min and 42 secs.

The (appropriately socially distancing) Winners: 1st Ben Healy, 2nd Carmine Spagnoletti, 3rd Rowan Walker

The race unfortunately was not without incident. Strained relationships between cyclist and other road users is something we are all sadly accustomed to, and this was evidenced by an incident between a riders and a motorcyclist out on course. But perhaps more disturbing was the un-sportsman like behavior between some of the race participants. Just a reminder, we are not racing for sheep stations, and there is no call for abusive language or threats. Many riders do take their racing seriously (that’s OK) and can get carried away in the heat of the moment, but at the end of the day we want a club and race events where everyone should be feel encouraged to attend, can enjoy the participation, and make it home safely.

Finally thanks to the marshals on the day, Seymour, Howard, Jonathan, Darren, and Dougal (now hopefully an accredited ETC !), the 1st Aider Simon, the race committee, and especially to Ian and Graham who put in an extraordinary effort week on week to make these races run so smoothly.

Paul Scherl,
Race Director

	Thanks to Howard Moffat who also took some pictures: https://www.flickr.com/photos/181657051@N07/sets/72157715879168272/

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  First Aid Course

•  Tandem Cycling Come and Try with Fitability

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  AVCC 2021 Nationals

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Report

Ian Morton

First Aid Course

Thanks to all of you who have responded to previous items in The Bleat about no-cost Advanced First Aid Courses for ACT Vets members. Due to difficulties in coordinating enough numbers to make group courses viable, we have come to an arrangement with training provider ACTWell to enable members to undertake a public course at their convenience.

The process is as follows:

1. Log on to ACTwell.com.au. There’s a useful tab on “Upcoming Sessions”. Once you’ve found a course that suits you, go to “Make a Booking” and follow the prompts.
2. Select “HLTAID006” – Advanced First Aid
3. Choose a date and assessment time that suits you. We’d be grateful if you could let the committee (committee@actvets.cc) know so we have a sense of numbers taking up this opportunity.
4. In the payment page, there is a voucher section. Input the code ACTVETS1. This will reduce the price from $190 to $160.
5. Undertake your course. The ACTWell guys are great, and have extensive experience in attending roadside incidents. They will, where possible, make time at the end of the practical session to go through some cycling specific scenarios.
6. E-mail evidence of your qualification and your receipt to treasurer@actvets.cc, and Kirsti will arrange for reimbursement.

Members are also welcome to undertake nationally-accredited first aid courses with the provider of their choice, provided the cost is less than $200 and they agree to go onto the club’s register of first-aid qualified members. One member has already taken up this option. Contact the committee to ensure your course meets the club’s needs. Following completion of the course, e-mail evidence of your qualification and receipt to treasurer@actvets.cc.

We strongly encourage members to take up this opportunity, which has been enabled by an ACT Government Road Safety Grant.

Tandem Cycling Come and Try with Fitability

Many of you will have seen tandems at Vet’s races and out and about riding. Fitability will be holding a come and try tandem morning on Saturday 19th September starting at 9:30am till 12 noon at Stromlo Criterium Circuit.

This is an opportunity for confident riders to trial riding at the front of a tandem bike, or for people with a disability to try riding at the back.

Instruction on piloting as well as disability specific information will be provided by experience pilots and volunteers.

This is a great opportunity for people to turn up and see if piloting a tandem is something they enjoy and volunteer to share with riders with vision impairment or other disabilities.

Fitability are providing tandem bikes in a range of sizes. All you need to bring with you is your own helmet and shoes and a willingness to give something new a try. More information about Fitability Tandem Riding, a Pedal Power program can be found at https://www.pedalpower.org.au/fitability/, email: Fitability.act@gmail.com or call Lindy on 0402 113 836

Rosemary Robinson

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are legal requirements in place for people returning to the ACT from Victoria and particular places in New South Wales to self-quarantine.

Members who have been to any of these locations in the past 14 days should be complying with ACT Government quarantine restrictions.

Members should stay home if you have been feeling unwell or showing symptoms of COVID-19 or been in contact with someone who has felt unwell in the past 2 weeks.

AVCC 2021 Nationals

RACING THIS WEEK:

Saturday, 5th September: Iron Mike

Where: Drive aprox 2.5km north west on Uriarra Rd from the intersection with Opperman Ave, Wright i.e. the main entry to SFP.
When: 1:30 pm.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
Race start and finish on Uriarra Road at SFP western car park. Race goes past the homestead to end of bitumen and return (60 km).
NOTE: Riders are NOT to attack on the descents into Uriarra crossing on either the outward or return legs.

Race Director: Paul Scherl Contact: Email: pascherl@microsoft.com    Ph 0402 210 804

Marshals: Darren Blackhurst ETC, Seymour Savell-Boss ETC, Jonathan Chowns, Dougal Torrance

Framework for “Return to Play in a COVID-safe Environment”

This Framework details how cycling events will be delivered by the ACT Veterans Cycling Club to meet the recommendations of Canberra’s Recovery Plan. From 19 June 2020, Stage 2.2 allows for groups of no more than 100 participants. Refer to the ACT Government guidelines at http://www.covid19.act.gov.au.

Stage 2.2 & 3 Arrangements

• On the day of the event, the race Director will be responsible for ensuring that participants follow these guidelines. Where a participant fails to comply they will be asked to leave the event.
• Any rider who is feeling unwell should not participate. If a rider experiences symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, sore throat, and tiredness, they should stay at home. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptom Checker is available at https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker/tool/basic-details.
• Riders with higher risks from Covid19 are advised not to participate:
  • People aged 70 years and over;
  • People aged 65 years and over with chronic medical conditions;
  • People with compromised immune systems; and
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50 with one or more chronic medical conditions.
• Race Officials will maintain 1.5m separation and hygiene standards during event setup, running and shutdown. When handling equipment such as signs and radios, Officials are to maintain hygiene by cleaning, wearing gloves and/or regular hand cleaning.
• The Club will organise first aid at each event provided by either a professional organisation or by a Club member with a current first aid certificate.
• Riders and spectators are to maintain a distance of 1.5m from other participants while at the event.
• Hand hygiene is imperative and hand sanitiser will be available at the event.
• Post-race refreshments will be provided. Members should bring their own coffee mug.
• No physical contact. Participants are to refrain from shaking hands, pats on the back, etc.
• If any rider feels unwell in the two weeks following the race, they must advise the Race Committee who will follow up with health authorities. The Rider Management System is used to record event attendees and has their contact details.

Thanks,

ACTVets Committee

RACE REPORT:

Club Championship – Mountain Creek Road – 29th August

It was a perfect late winter’s afternoon for racing: sunny and with a light northerly that hastened riders towards the finish line. The new Mountain Creek Road course, only used once before, was also highly rated. The lush green hills and overlook of the city provided views so scenic they may have distracted some riders from their racing. The out-and-back course was described by a connoisseur as “lumpy” rather than “rolling”: with a double hill in the middle that provided opportunity for the climbers, but was not too hard for the rouleurs. A “fair” course for club championships.

Fifty four riders came out to race: from Daniel Lekhac in M1 (30-34) to Graham Lindsay and Mijo Spoljaric in M10 (80-84!). So we covered 50 years of age groups. Men 60+ and the women did two laps of the 20km course, and everyone else did three.

We had three women, who were all in W3 (40-45). Kerrie Muir was well ahead by the end of the first lap, and won convincingly ahead of Shirley-Anne Taylor, who took second a few minutes ahead of Rosemary Robinson.

The first three men’s age groups were short of numbers, so I set them off together in an initial bunch of six. A group of three: Daniel Lekhac (the only M1), Bradley Peppinck & Rainer Wilson (both M3); broke away and worked together for most of the race, showing good form. Bradley won M3 ahead of Rainer. Tim Brown won M2 ahead of Cramine Spagnoletti.

Eleven riders lined up for M4. Steve Crispin and Gerard Tiffen broke away and formed a fast pair, tapping out a furious pace, with Steve eventually getting away after the last turn and going on for the win, Gerard not far behind. Gerard impressed me again, he is one of the few riders in the club able to ride with Steve for significant periods, and he certainly worked harder! A few minutes back Rowan McMurray took third not far in front of Paul Scherl.

M5 was the largest bunch, of twelve. Attacks on the hill over three laps only trimmed the bunch down to eight, before a fast downhill sprint to the line. Stephen Blackburn showed his class winning the sprint ahead of Christophe Barberet, with Brendan Byatt taking third.

In M6 Bruce Goodspeed won by several minutes, with Ian McVay outsprinting John Paul De Sousa for second and third. Paul Welsh was unlucky, he looked to be in good shape, but his delicate rear tubular punctured on the gnarly cattle grid. Robert Langridge was dropped and retired a lap early, which enabled him to observe the rest of the race for handicap information. (Our president Seymour also finished a lap short in M4, perhaps saving some energy for the medal presentations).

An impressive bunch of eight started M7, which split into two groups of three, with the two dropped riders pressing on to the finish. At the front Owain Tilley and Michael Carr dropped Ian Preston, and worked together until the final sprint, which Owain won.

In M8 Brian Peak won by several minutes from the magnificently moustached Howard Moffat, who was several minutes ahead of Chris Copeland. However, Brian’s official time of 1:01.21 can’t be right, since it implies the same average speed as Steve Crispin. Des Brown won M9 in a more credible and genuinely fast 1:13:41, well ahead of Alex Sommariva. Finally, Lindsay Graham won M10 ten minutes ahead of Mijo Spoljaric.

Watching the championships I was impressed by the genuine talent across all age groups our club has, and the great friendly competition everyone contributed to and enjoyed. We have a few stars including Australian Masters medal winners Steve Crispin and Stephen Blackburn, but we have excellent athletes in all age groups, and the relative times bear that out. I am unlikely to be as fast as Des Brown and Lindsay Graham, when (and if!) I reach their age. Everyone who raced or helped had a fine time, and that is what our club is about.

Thanks to our team of four Marshals: David Rowe, Theresa McLachlan, Conan Liu and Nick Boylan, three of whom volunteered to fill gaps when others were unavailable. Thanks for heeding Ian’s call so we could run the championships. Thanks again to the selfless Graham Hendrie, who does about half the work at every race. Finally, thanks to Ian McVay and the race committee. The development of this new Mountain Creek course is another example of their splendid work.

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS
Age Group	Results
W3	1st: Kerrie Muir 2nd: Shirley-Anne Taylor 3rd: Rosemary Robinson
M1	1st: Daniel Lekhac
M2	1st: Tim Brown 2nd: Carmine Spagnoletti
M3	1st: Bradley Peppinck 2nd: Rainer Wilton
M4	1st: Steve Crispin 2nd: Gerard Tiffen 3rd: Rowan McMurray
M5	1st: Stephen Blackburn 2nd: Christophe Barberet 3rd: Brendan Byatt
M6	1st: Bruce Goodspeed 2nd: Ian McVay 3rd: John Paul De Sousa
M7	1st: Owain Tilley 2nd: Michael Carr 3rd: Ian Preston
M8	1st: Brian Peak 2nd: Howard Moffat 3rd: Chris Copeland
M9	1st: Des Brown 2nd: Alex Sommariva
M10	1st: Lindsay Graham 2nd: Mijo (Michael) Spoljaric

Roger Northcote,
Race Director