Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  Handlebar, Stromlo (Grease Monkeys)

•  First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

Handlebar, Stromlo (Grease Monkeys)

Dear Members,

We have been talking with the owners of the Handlebar at Stromlo about opening up on a Tuesday night to sell us burgers and beers. There is a catch… they need to know that at least 20 will take up the opportunity.

I’m pretty sure with a 100 or so riders a week a fair few would enjoy some carbs, a chance to brag about the win, console each other about a failed long range attack. Whatever motivates us, it would be a nice opportunity to sit down, have some food and or drink and socialise post-race*.

Of course, this isn’t just for riders, it’s a great opportunity for us to have families come out to see some great racing and then to sit down and eat and socialise together.

If you could email me at president@actvets.cc to register your genuine interest I can advise the Handlebar and see if we can get them to open up in the coming weeks until Crit season ends on 30 March.

The cutoff for responses is 9pm Tuesday (23rd Feb).

If you’re not aware, the burgers are made by the Grease Monkeys crew, and are amazing.

Seymour,
ACT Vets Cycling Club President

*by all means eat a few burgers pre-ride, but I’m not cleaning up the track…

First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

For some time now, ACT Vets’ has been offering First Aid courses to members on a reimbursed basis with thanks to a Road Safety grant from the ACT Government.

With take up being lower than anticipated, we still have significant unexpended funds, and so with the ACT Government’s approval, we have extended the offer to other clubs and Pedal Power. Our expectation is that with the broader membership base of Pedal Power in particular, we will be able to get the required numbers for a couple of group courses in late February – early March.

If you still have an interest in undertaking a First Aid course and you are able to attend a group class on either of the two prospective dates, please click on the link below to register your interest.

Please note that places on the course will be limited to grant funds available.

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are conditions for travelers from other states.

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.

RACING THIS WEEK:

Tuesday, 23rd February: Stromlo Criterium – Age* Graded Club Championship – Part 2

Note: This race is Part 2 of the Age Graded Championships.

Racing is only for Men (ages 30 – 54).

Where: Stromlo Forest Park
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number.
Race Description:
M4 (45-49)/M5 (50-54) @5:50 40 min
M1 (30-34)/ M2 (35-39)/M3 (40-44) @6:40 45 min

*Age Classification is the Age that you turn on your birthday in 2021, e.g. a rider who turns 40 in December 2021 is classed as M3 (40-44) for all events during 2021.

Race Director:  Allan Bontjer Contact: Email: allan@allanbontjer.net    Ph  0422 808 035

Marshals: Adrian Breen

Wednesday, 24th February: Track Racing

The Program for Wednesday is;
5.30pm – 6.00pm: Warm-up and free practice.
6.00pm – 6.20pm: 8-lap graded scratch race.
6.20pm – 6.50pm: 2-Lap match races (Omnium Event).
6.50pm – 7.10pm: 2-lap handicap.
7.10pm – 7.30pm: Italian pursuit.

Note: Thanks to a generous donation from Robert Langridge, the club now has a spare track bike for temporary loan to anyone who wishes to give track racing a go. If you are interested, bring your own pedals, tyre pump and tools to set saddle height etc. Users will be responsible for checking the bike and ensuring it is safely set up for racing. Come early if you wish to take up this option.

Sunday, 28th February – Tharwa – Time Trial – Elders Age Standard

Note: The start location of the race is still subject to confirmation. Please check the RMS and Bleat for any updates.

Where: Assemble in Tharwa village or picnic area adjacent western end of Tharwa Bridge.
When: 9:00 am.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
From carpark near bridge to Apollo Rd and return.

Race Director:  Stephen Schwenke Contact: Email: schwenkes@homemail.com.au    Ph  0412 485 729

Marshals: Henry Thomson ETC, Callum Henshaw

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 9th February – Club Championship

Race 1 of the evening saw the M8, M9 & M10 categories line up in their respective groups and set off with a slight tailwind down the finishing straight. Initially all groups stayed together, with only M10 staying together until the finish.

M8 was a hard-fought contest with initial surges being put in by Owain Tilley, though it was all for nought as it came down to a finishing straight sprint which was taken out by Brian Peak, second was Owain and third was Bruce McMillan.

M9 saw a few more gaps than in the M8 race, however Mark Taylor was successful in crossing the line in first place, followed by Alex Sommariva and third was taken by Don de Smet.

M10, as mentioned above was a far more closely guarded affair, with Graham Hendrie crossing the line victorious, with Mijo Spoljaric coming in second.

Race 2, the three female age groups set off as one pack, the racing was generally very close, with the mix of age groups almost indistinguishable to those on the sidelines as they all competed in a close racing contest.

In the end, Vanessa Judge attacked and came across solo for the win ahead of Gillian Lugg in second and Kirsty Cummins placing third.

Alison Hale took line honours in F3 ahead of a surging Elizabeth Lowe in second and Linda Stalls in third.

F4 was the grade that did split, with Terry Moor victorious, Penelope Anderson came home second, and Gai Monahan crossed in third.

Race 3 we had the young guns of M6 and M7, we separated the two so they could focus on their own races as they had the two largest fields for the night.

M7 was a close affair, with the lead four riders of the grade sticking together, however there was always going to be someone missing out for a place on podium honours. Michael Foulds took the win a couple of seconds ahead of resurgent Dale Kleeman and Frank Zeller closely followed in third.

The final finish of the night was also the closest, the M6 bunch started off riding together, but during the 35-minute race there were riders scattered across the course. With the leaders coming down the finishing straight I managed to get video of the first three crossing the line, lucky I did as initial thoughts being that it was a dead heat between first and second. The committee convened and eventually gave the decision to Mark Vardy ahead of an extremely fast finishing Bruce Goodspeed, closely followed by Robert Langridge. If the race had been another 30cm I think it would have gone to Bruce.

Kudos to everyone for giving us an evening of exciting racing. And sincere apologies if I misrepresented and or failed to highlight some amazing action sequence experienced out on the track.

We did have one negative of the night, with a close-pass incident with a flying group of riders passing another group and swinging in front as they sought a road position with the least wind. We all know that getting out of the wind is a massive benefit, but we must also consider the other racers too.

I want to take the opportunity to thank Russell and Kirsti for looking after the office duties for the evening, and for Phill for also helping out. Kirsti also managed the medal ceremonies too.

Special thanks to my two trusty lieutenants for the night:

Ian Drayton kept the timing on track for the evening, counted all the riders were present and correct, as well as acting as designated First Aider in the absence of our usual stalwart Simon. Ian had recently taken advantage of the club offering of subsidised first aider training so it was great to see Ian being able to stand in, knowing he was able to support any rider that may have needed it.

Jeremy Ross also assisted on the start/finish line, before taking up the role of chief kangaroo wrangler, following one roos plucky encroachment, keeping an active watch on a boisterous mob of roos. Thankfully due to Jeremy’s (and initially Ian Morton’s) actions we were roo-free for the rest of the evening.

Thanks Ian, Jeremy, it is these types of volunteering actions that keeps a club like ours running. And as always thank you to the race committee for organising these races for us.

Seymour Savell-Boss

Track Racing – 17th February

The evening weather for the season’s 15th track racing session was cool and overcast. Unusually, there was a strong headwind in the Bundadome front straight and turn 1. Overall, conditions were good for racing. Attendance held up, with 15 riders, 6 in A grade and 9 in B grade.

The 8-lap, A grade, scratch race started slowly with Martin Graham and John Paul De Sousa taking initial turns on the front. There were further steady turns by Craig Kentwell, Steve Jones, Rowan McMurray, and (again) Martin Graham. After swapping the lead out with John Paul De Sousa, Martin Graham perched high on the banking and attacked into lap 7. Steve Jones responded and before long Martin and Steve were 10 metres out from the bunch with 1.5 laps to go. Over the next lap, John Paul De Sousa managed to drag the bunch up to the leading pair with the last half lap contested as an all-out sprint. Steve Jones emerged the winner, closely followed by John Paul De Sousa and Craig Kentwell, in that order.

The 8-lap B Grade scratch race held a steady pace for 6 laps with turns on the front by Ken Birch, Tony Beasley, Bruce Griffin, Phil Anderson James Newhouse and Alison Hale. Phil Coulton took over the lead for lap 7 and soon accelerated out to commence a long sprint. Graeme O’Neill tried to follow in Phil’s wheel, but fell back slightly with Ian Drayton, Tony Beasley and the remaining bunch streaming past to take up a hot pursuit. Ultimately Ian Drayton proved the strongest, with Tony Beasley and Alison Hale following in that order. Phil Coulton finished down in the bunch, but had the satisfaction of initiating a good, hot contest.

The evening’s second event was a 1-lap screamer, a short, timed sprint from a standing start. Punch and power are the keys to this event. A-grade times were very competitive with the first three placings being Steve Jones (28.97s), John Paul De Sousa (29.44s) and Martin Graham (29.50s). B-grade times were also quite competitive with the first three being Ian Drayton (30.13s), James Newhouse (30.38s) and Phil Coulton (30.45s).

The evening’s third event was a 4-lap handicap with A & B grades combined in a single race. The longer handicaps seem to favour A grade riders, because of their better endurance at high speeds. This event was no exception. A grade chased hard from a significant deficit, with the first four places being taken by Steve Jones, Rowan McMurray, Martin Graham and Craig Kentwell in that order.

The track session closed with the usual, all-in, Italian pursuit. This event had teams of 6 riders. Both teams made good starts and rode without error. On paper Team 2 looked stronger. However, that is normally no guarantee of a result. In practice, Team 2 gained a slim lead up until John Paul De Sousa rolled to the front and put in a blistering lap to put them in the box seat. When the anchor riders took over, Steve Jones (Team 1) had little chance of closing the gap. A good solid ride by the team 2 anchor, Rowan McMurray, put the result beyond doubt.

Major place getters for Wednesday were as follows:
8-Lap Scratch: (A Grade) Steve Jones, John Paul De Sousa, Craig Kentwell. (B Grade) Ian Drayton, Phil Tony Beasley, Alison Hale.
1-Lap Screamer: (A Grade) Steve Jones (28.97s), John Paul De Sousa (29.44s), Martin Graham (29.50s). (B Grade) Ian Drayton (30.13s), James Newhouse (30.38s), Phil Coulton (30.45s).
4-Lap Handicap: (A&B Combined) Steve Jones, Rowan McMurray, Martin Graham.
Combined Italian Pursuit: Winner Team 2 (Rowan McMurray, John Paul De Sousa, Craig Kentwell, James Newhouse, Phil Coulton, Phil Anderson).

Omnium Championship Points:
Ben Davis (9), Rowan McMurray, Alison Hale, John Paul De Sousa (6), Phil Coulton, Steve Jones, Phil Anderson (5), Martin Graham, Ken Birch, James Newhouse Tony Beasley (4).

Season Point Score Update:
Steve Jones (227), Ian Drayton (216), Phil Anderson (200), James Newhouse (199), John Paul De Sousa (197), Ken Birch (169), Alison Hale (161), Wayne Benham (156), Phil Coulton (145), Tony Beasley (124), Bruce Griffin (120), Craig Kentwell (119).

Graeme O’Neill

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  2021 Annual General Meeting

•  Handlebar, Stromlo (Grease Monkeys)

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  From the Race Committee

•  First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

•  Cycling study at the University of Canberra

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

2021 Annual General Meeting

Thanks to those who attended this evening’s AGM.

2021 Committee

Ths Committe for this year is;

• President: Seymour Savell-Boss
• Vice-President: Ian McVay
• Club Secretary: Russell Marston
• Treasurer and Membership: Kirsti McVay
• Welfare officer: Rob Langridge
• General committee: Rob Langridge (Handicapper), Ian Morton (The Bleat), Kim Malcolm, Andy Matz, Dougal Torrance, Craig Tozer
• Track Racing: Graeme O’Neill

Handlebar, Stromlo (Grease Monkeys)

Dear Members,

We have been talking with the owners of the Handlebar at Stromlo about opening up on a Tuesday night to sell us burgers and beers. There is a catch… they need to know that at least 20 will take up the opportunity.

I’m pretty sure with a 100 or so riders a week a fair few would enjoy some carbs, a chance to brag about the win, console each other about a failed long range attack. Whatever motivates us, it would be a nice opportunity to sit down, have some food and or drink and socialise post-race*.

Of course, this isn’t just for riders, it’s a great opportunity for us to have families come out to see some great racing and then to sit down and eat and socialise together.

If you could email me at president@actvets.cc to register your genuine interest I can advise the Handlebar and see if we can get them to open up in the coming weeks until Crit season ends on 30 March.

If you’re not aware, the burgers are made by the Grease Monkeys crew, and are amazing.

Seymour,
ACT Vets Cycling Club President

*by all means eat a few burgers pre-ride, but I’m not cleaning up the track…

From the Desk of the Handicapper

This week’s promotions

– Peter Zygadio B to A road
– Heath Chester B to A crit
– Steve Jones C to B crit

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

For some time now, ACT Vets’ has been offering First Aid courses to members on a reimbursed basis with thanks to a Road Safety grant from the ACT Government.

With take up being lower than anticipated, we still have significant unexpended funds, and so with the ACT Government’s approval, we have extended the offer to other clubs and Pedal Power. Our expectation is that with the broader membership base of Pedal Power in particular, we will be able to get the required numbers for a couple of group courses in late February – early March.

If you still have an interest in undertaking a First Aid course and you are able to attend a group class on either of the two prospective dates, please click on the link below to register your interest.

Please note that places on the course will be limited to grant funds available.

Cycling study at the University of Canberra

I’m Felicity, a third-year PhD candidate in Environmental Physiology at the University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise. I’m currently recruiting cyclists for my next study, which investigates the effect of airflow on thermophysiology and self-paced cycling performance.

What we are looking for;
– Male cyclists (18-55 years)
– Cycling approx 200km per week
– Free from injury and illness

What we require from you;
– 2 x 2 hr preliminary tests (VO2max test and a 15km familiarisation time trial)
– 4 x 30 km cycling time trials in a hot environment with varying wind speeds (testing session 2 hrs in total).
– Measures include: Cycling performance, cre and skin temperature, sweating response, oxygen uptake and cardiac output.

Where is the test?;
– University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise environmental chamber.

When can you test;
– At a convenient time for you, basically anytime between 6am and 6pm. I’m happy to work around your weekend and weekday schedules.
– Trials are sepearted by a minimum of 48hrs (max 72hrs) and must be done around the same time of day.

What do you get;
– Your VO2max
– A comprehnsive physiological and performance profile

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Kind Regards,

Felicity

Felicity Bright
BAppSc (Ex&SpSc) (Hons)
University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE)
Bruce | ACT 2617 | Australia
PhD Candidate
Phone: +61 400 413 895
Email: felicity.bright@canberra.edu.au

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are conditions for travelers from other states.

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.

RACING THIS WEEK:

Tuesday, 16th February: Stromlo Criterium – Age* Graded Club Championship – Part 1

Note: This race is Part 1 of the Age Graded Championships.

Racing is only for Men (ages 55 – 80+) and Women (all ages).

Next week is Part 2 which will be for Men (ages 30 – 54).

Where: Stromlo Forest Park
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number.
Race Description:
M8 (65-69)/M9 (70-74)/M10 (75-80)/M11 (80+) @5:50 30 min
Women (All ages)** @6:30 30 min
M6 (55-59)/M7 (60-64) @7:10 35 min

*Age Classification is the Age that you turn on your birthday in 2021, e.g. a rider who turns 40 in December 2021 is classed as M3 (40-44) or W2 (40-49) for all events during 2021.

**While all Women will start together, results will be recorded for 10 year ages groups (30-39, 40-49, etc).

Race Director:  Seymour Savell-Boss Contact: Email: seymoursb@me.com    Ph  0405 020 741

Marshals: Ian Drayton

Wednesday, 17th February: Track Racing

The Program for Wednesday is;
5.30pm – 6.00pm: Warm-up and free practice.
6.00pm – 6.20pm: 8-lap graded scratch race.
6.20pm – 6.50pm: 1 lap screamer (standing start TT – Omnium Event).
6.50pm – 7.10pm: 4-lap handicap races.
7.10pm – 7.30pm: Italian pursuit.

Note: Thanks to a generous donation from Robert Langridge, the club now has a spare track bike for temporary loan to anyone who wishes to give track racing a go. If you are interested, bring your own pedals, tyre pump and tools to set saddle height etc. Users will be responsible for checking the bike and ensuring it is safely set up for racing. Come early if you wish to take up this option.

Sunday, 21st February – RACE CANCELLED

As previously advised, we are having problems with the approvals for Upper Lachlan Shire Council. We will not be able to get these resolved in time for this week’s race.

The Race Committee will advise if an alternate event can be organised.

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 9th February

The weather for the afternoon’s crit racing was cool with a slight easterly blowing.

First race of the afternoon was E, F, and G. This week saw Gail Monahan seek revenge on Bernie in G grade by taking out G grade, surging away half-way thought the race for a convincing victory. In F grade, Bob Miller attacked the bunch with 14 mins to go and held the lead all the way to the end. Mike Hayes and David Witteveen taking out the minor places. 7 riders lined up for E grade with riders trying to get away at different stages of the race. Unfortunately, none of the riders were able to stay away, with Linda Stals taking out the bunch sprint, followed by Geoff Ellacott, and Penelope Anderson.

The pace was on early in A grade with attacks starting early in the race, to try and break-up the bunch. Health Wade was able to get away at the half-way point of the race, but the bunch wasn’t going to let him stay away for long, bringing him back into the pack with 15 mins to go. A grade stayed together for the remainder of the race for a sprint finish with Marc Vroomans taking victory ahead of Mark Harris, and Gerard Tiffen. The C grade race saw Dominic ‘Dominator’ Romano trying to breakaway early in the race, putting in a number of attacks but the other riders kept bringing him back. The race came down to a sprint finish with Steven Jones across the line first, followed by Adam Strickland, and James Tonkin.

B and D grade took to the track with the light fading and the wind starting to pick-up. The pace was on in B grade for the whole race which made it difficult for anyone to get away. There were many attempts but non stuck. Heath Chester won the closely contested sprint ahead of Mark Vardy and Colin Kelley. D grade saw Jason McAvoy breakaway from the bunch with 5 mins left on the clock and it looked like he was going to take it out, but the bunch ruined his fun, reeling him in with 2 laps to go with Josh Quilliam taking home the money ahead of Allan Bontjer, and Alex Sommariva.

Andrew Terracini

Track Racing – 10th February

The evening weather for the season’s 14th track racing session was sunny and warm with a slight headwind in the Bundadome back straight. Overall, conditions were very good for racing. Attendance held up, with 15 riders, 7 in A grade and 8 in B grade.

The 8-lap, A grade, scratch race started at a good pace with Martin Graham doing half a lap before Steve Hirsler cranked it up for a further lap. There were steady turns by John Paul De Sousa, Rowan McMurray, Steve Jones and Wayne Benham before Ben Davis rolled into the lead on lap 6 and increased the pace. Martin Graham quickly closed down the gap caused by Ben’s acceleration and, on lap 7, attacked with John Paul De Sousa, Rowan McMurray and Steve Jones in hot pursuit. The final lap was run at a torrid pace. John Paul De Sousa showed his improving form by running down Martin for first place. Rowan McMurray and Steve Jones also had good pace, rolling over Martin to gain second and third placings respectively.

The 8-lap B Grade scratch race was a steady, solid pace for 6 laps with turns by Tony Beasley, Bruce Griffin, James Newhouse, Colin Calderwood and Alison Hale. Phil Anderson took over the lead for lap 7 and held the pace until just into the bell lap when he accelerated out to commence a long sprint. Graeme O’Neill tried to follow in Phil’s wheel, but fell back with the bunch streaming past to take up a hot pursuit. Ultimately Tony Beasley, Alison Hale and James Newhouse proved too strong for Phil who tired after a long lead-out, The trio rolled across the line in the order listed.

The evening’s second event was a 200 Fly, a timed sprint over 200m from a flying start. Power, and flying start technique are the keys to this event. A-grade times were very competitive with the first three being Steve Jones (13.12s), John Paul De Sousa (13.46s) and Wayne Benham (13.88s). B-grade times were also quite competitive with the first three being Tony Beasley (14.47s), Bruce Griffin (14.84s) and James Newhouse (14.88s). The fastest rider (Steve Jones) averaged 56.8 km/hr over the timed section. The 200 Fly was the first event of a 4 event Omnium Championship for 2020-21.

The evening’s third events were 2-lap handicaps with A & B grades intermingled in two separate races. Race 1 was taken out by James Newhouse with Phil Anderson and Colin Calderwood in second and third places. Race 2 saw a massive initial attack by Bruce Griffin. This was sufficient to keep him ahead all the way to the line. Tony Beasley and Alison Hale rode well to take out second and third places respectively. Overall, it appeared the B grade riders were favoured by the handicaps.

The track session closed with the usual, all-in, Italian pursuit. This event had teams of 7 riders. Both teams made good starts and rode without error. When the selection for Team 2 was announced, there were howls from selected riders, implying they were underdogs. They did well for underdogs, as they matched Team 1 lap for lap. By the final lap, the Team 2 anchor rider Rowan McMurray started with a slight advantage over John Paul De Sousa. It was all Rowan needed to deliver an unexpected win for the ‘underdog’ Team 2.

Major place getters for Wednesday were as follows:
8-Lap Scratch: (A Grade) John Paul De Sousa, Rowan McMurray, Steve Jones. (B Grade) Tony Beasley, Alison Hale, James Newhouse.
200m Fly: (A Grade) Steve Jones (13.12s), John Paul De Sousa (13.46s), Wayne Benham (13.88s). (B Grade) Tony Beasley (14.47s), Bruce Griffin (14.84s), James Newhouse (14.88s).
2-Lap Handicap: (Race 1 A&B) James Newhouse, Phil Anderson, Colin Calderwood (Race 2 A&B) Bruce Griffin, Tony Beasley, Alison Hale.
Combined Italian Pursuit: Winner Team 2 (Rowan McMurray, Martin Graham, Wayne Benham, Colin Calderwood, Bruce Griffin, Phil Coulton, Alison Hale).

Omnium Championship Points:
Rowan McMurray (5), Alison Hale (5), Ben Davis, Tony Beasley (4), John Paul De Sousa (3), Phil Coulton (3), Steve Hirsler (2), Bruce Griffin (2), Wayne Benham (1), James Newhouse (1).

Season Point Score Update:
Steve Jones (204), Ian Drayton (198), Phil Anderson (190), James Newhouse (183), John Paul De Sousa (179), Ken Birch (163), Wayne Benham (156), Alison Hale (150), Phil Coulton (132), Bruce Griffin (114).

Graeme O’Neill

Corin Road – 14th January

Sunday’s race became a hill climb up Corin Rd from the Tidbinbilla Rd intersection to the ridge past Square Rocks carpark (which is just after Corin Forest Resort) for a distance of about 13km (with ascent of about 550m), as we did not receive the full usual race course approval in time. 31 riders came to test their legs on the clear, sunny autumn-like morning, and all completed the course – congratulations.

A grade started with 5 riders and reports are that Stephen Isbel was on a mission to beat his “best time” and rode the fastest time of 32mins 2 secs. He was followed by crafty Al Raitt and Brendan Byatt in third.

B grade had the largest turnout of 9 riders. It was won by Peter Zygadio closely followed by Henry Thomson then Tom Hartley.

C grade also had a good turnout with podium filled by Peter Blaint first, then Andrew Hislop and Clinton Porteous. Reports are that they challenged each other for much of the race.

D grade group separated early in the race and was won by David Buckley, with David Hennessy in second and Lance Purdon in third.

The 4 E and F graders wished to start together for the challenge, and it was good to see Jan Koehler back to racing. In E grade, Alex Sommariva charged home ahead of Jan. In F grade, it appears Sharon Landy enjoyed the hill and led the group to the finish line with Edward Joliffe riding tough to the end.

Thank you to the marshals Paul Welch and John Stokman, together with the invaluable work of Graham Hendrie preparing the race equipment for the van, recording the entries and race results, and the support of Ian McVay with the comprehensive Race Guidelines and answers to my questions.

Elton Ivers

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  2021 Annual General Meeting

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  From the Race Committee

•  First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

•  Cycling study at the University of Canberra

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

2021 Annual General Meeting

The AGM for 2021 will be held on Monday 15th February 2021 at 7:00pm in the Loft Meeting Room at the Raiders Club Weston.

Due to COVID restrictions, there is a limit of 32 attendees. For those that wish to attend, could you please pre-register by sending email to the Secretary (secretary@actvets.cc). Any additional attendees or those that can’t attend in person, use the following zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/96643225470?pwd=TTV1OSsxcUZMdGR3aUcvMGpKdEZKZz09

For those that use zoom we need you to register your attendance. Use Chat in zoom to fully identify yourself. For example “Joe Blow is attending ACTVETS CC AGM”.

NOTE: Any Apologies should be advised to the secretary.

Russell Marston
Secretary ACT Veterans Cycling Club
secretary@actvets.cc

From the Desk of the Handicapper

This week’s promotions

– Felipe Lopes Reis D to C road
– Andrew Terracini C to B crit

Vets Out and About

A few vets were busy down at the National Road Championships at Ballarat last week riding for Canberra Cycling Club. Steve Crispin, Tristan Dimmock and Anthony Willemsen and one other CCC rider won the club teams time trial for their age group. Tristan also won his age group for gran fondo while Steve was second in his age group and 9th overall.

Young Tom Chester was ninth in the open men’s criterium, attributing this breakthrough performance to the inspiration gained from his dad (Heath) coming second in B grade on Tuesday night. “Vets B grade is just about the pinnacle of crit racing in the world, and 9th in the Nats nearly matches that. I’ve got some bragging rights too, Dad!”, announced an ecstatic Tom Chester to the awaiting media on Sturt St just after the race.

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

From the Race Committee

Finish chute

After a race finish, grades need to maintain their finish positions and file slowly through the finish chute to have their race number recorded. Sunday’s race had B grade not following this process which caused frustration for the race officials trying to sort out the results. Remember that you could face the same problem when it is your turn to marshal.

Sunday’s Race at Corin

Sunday’s race at Corin is scheduled as a graded scratch with an initial leg out and back from the intersection south to the power line. Then a final climb up Corin Dam Rd to the top.

This is to replace our usual race up Honeysuckle which is closed due to the bush fire.

We have approval for the Corin climb section but are awaiting approval for the 1st section of the race. Further updates to follow in the Bleat, RMS and on Facebook.

Race Van Update

After some testing, with the help of CCC, we have found that storing the van and race equipment in a shipping container at Stromlo is a viable option. We are looking to purchase a suitable container and to be able to park it at Stromlo.

We have not however had anyone volunteer to take on the role of looking after the van and the equipment on an ongoing basis. One other option is for the race officials for each race to prepare the van and take it to the race and to manage the race registration and timing. This could be difficult as there are quite a few things that need to be learned and managed, e.g. ensuring the van is fuelled, kit is charged and consumables have been replaced as well as learning and operating SORS for race entries and results. This would be a steep learning curve and as people would most likely do this at most once a year, soon forgotten prior to having to do it again.

Another option could be to have 11 people assigned, each for 5 weeks at a time over the year (allowing a break over Xmas & New Year). The 1st week would be a hand over from the previous person where you learn what is required. The last week would be a hand over to the next person ensuring they know what to do. Given the impact this would have on people’s racing, they would not be expected to help out again for a considerable period of time.

The committee is open to suggestions from members as how best to continue supporting our races.

NSW Race Approvals

We are yet to receive approvals for NSW races. Upper Lachlan Council have come back to us requiring we revise our application. They have set some conditions that have significant impacts on getting approvals and running races. The committee will be working on this to try and find a means of continuing to race in the shire at Gunning, Dalton and Yass. Members should be aware that all NSW races in RMS are subject to getting approval from councils and NSW Police.

Ian McVay
Race Committee

First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

For some time now, ACT Vets’ has been offering First Aid courses to members on a reimbursed basis with thanks to a Road Safety grant from the ACT Government.

With take up being lower than anticipated, we still have significant unexpended funds, and so with the ACT Government’s approval, we have extended the offer to other clubs and Pedal Power. Our expectation is that with the broader membership base of Pedal Power in particular, we will be able to get the required numbers for a couple of group courses in late February – early March.

If you still have an interest in undertaking a First Aid course and you are able to attend a group class on either of the two prospective dates, please click on the link below to register your interest.

Please note that places on the course will be limited to grant funds available.

Cycling study at the University of Canberra

I’m Felicity, a third-year PhD candidate in Environmental Physiology at the University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise. I’m currently recruiting cyclists for my next study, which investigates the effect of airflow on thermophysiology and self-paced cycling performance.

What we are looking for;
– Male cyclists (18-55 years)
– Cycling approx 200km per week
– Free from injury and illness

What we require from you;
– 2 x 2 hr preliminary tests (VO2max test and a 15km familiarisation time trial)
– 4 x 30 km cycling time trials in a hot environment with varying wind speeds (testing session 2 hrs in total).
– Measures include: Cycling performance, cre and skin temperature, sweating response, oxygen uptake and cardiac output.

Where is the teat?;
– University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise environmental chamber.

When can you test;
– At a convenient time for you, basically anytime between 6am and 6pm. I’m happy to work around your weekend and weekday schedules.
– Trials are sepearted by a minimum of 48hrs (max 72hrs) and must be done around the same time of day.

What do you get;
– Your VO2max
– A comprehnsive physiological and performance profile

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Kind Regards,

Felicity

Felicity Bright
BAppSc (Ex&SpSc) (Hons)
University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE)
Bruce | ACT 2617 | Australia
PhD Candidate
Phone: +61 400 413 895
Email: felicity.bright@canberra.edu.au

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are conditions for travelers from other states.

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.

RACING THIS WEEK:

Tuesday, 9th February: Stromlo Criterium

Where: Stromlo Forest Park
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number.
Race Description:
E/F/G 5:50 28 min + 2 laps
A/C 6:25 A 40m+2, C 35m+2
B/D 7:20 B 40m+2, D 35m+2

Race Director:  Andrew Terracini Contact: Email: aterra1972@iinet.net.au    Ph  0430 239 007

Marshals: Nigel Smith

Wednesday, 10th February: Track Racing

The Program for Wednesday is;
5.30pm – 6.00pm: Warm-up and free practice.
6.00pm – 6.20pm: 8-lap graded scratch race;
6.20pm – 6.50pm: 200m-fly (flying start TT – Omnium Event).
6.50pm – 7.10pm: 2-lap handicap races.
7.10pm – 7.30pm: Italian pursuit.

Note: Thanks to a generous donation from Robert Langridge, the club now has a spare track bike for temporary loan to anyone who wishes to give track racing a go. If you are interested, bring your own pedals, tyre pump and tools to set saddle height etc. Users will be responsible for checking the bike and ensuring it is safely set up for racing. Come early if you wish to take up this option.

Sunday, 14th February – Corin – Graded Scratch

Where: Start of course is at the intersection of Tidbinbilla Rd and the Corin Dam Rd. Finish is approx 12km up the Corin Dam Rd at entry to the old Square Rock car park, near the gate.
When: 9:00 am.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
Race toward Tharwa and turn at power lines, then climb to Square Rock car park.

Race Director: Elton Ivers Contact: Email: elton.ivers@gmail.com    Ph  0408 418 811

Marshals: Paul Welsh ETC, Darren Blackhurst ETC, John Stokman

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 2nd February

Fine and windy conditions saw a good turnout, with plenty of breakaways and chases to keep things interesting. 19 starters in A grade drew in several attacks and breakaways with Gerard Tiffin claiming victory ahead of Rob McLachlan and Mark Harris.

Thirty two riders battled it out from the B team with Daniel Crocker first, Heath Chester second and Mark Vardy third. From the 20 lads and 4 lasses in C grade, visitor Micheal Davis, beat Andrew Terracini (visiting from B grade) over the line; followed by James Tonkin and Wayne Benham.

The twenty one D graders managed to mostly stay together as a bunch, with Linda Stall’s demonstrating her individual time trial skills into the wind. In the end Eoin Rothery claimed the gold from Anthony Dick, silver and David Hennessy bronze.

As the sun slipped behind the mountains E, F and G took to the track. Chris Reis took first in E grade followed by Penelope Anderson second and Geoff Ellacott third. Colin Calderwood beat Mike Hayes followed by Adrian Breen in the top three for F grade. Bernie Crowe and Gai Monahan did a couple of laps together in G before Bernie pulled ahead for a convincing victory.

Rosemary Robinson

Track Racing – 3rd February

The evening weather for the season’s 13th track racing session was warm with a stiff headwind in the Bundadome back straight. Overall, conditions were good for racing. Attendance was good, with 18 riders, 7 in A grade and 11 in B grade.

The 10-lap A grade scratch race started at a steady pace with Ben Robey doing half a lap before Warwick Wilson took over for 1.5 laps. There were steady turns by Craig Kentwell, Steve Jones and John Paul De Sousa before Michael Langdon rolled into the lead on lap 6 and increased the pace. Warwick Wilson quickly closed down the gap caused by Michael’s acceleration and the bunch barrelled around the latter laps becoming increasingly compacted. As the bell lap approached, Craig Kentwell attacked setting up a fast, 1-lap sprint. Michael Langdon, Steve Jones and John Paul DeSousa soon pulled to the front of the sprint with Steve pouncing around Michael as the finish approached. The result was Steve Jones first, Michael Langdon second and John Paul De Sousa third. Craig Kentwell’s enterprise went unrewarded as he was swamped by pursuers and fell back in the pack.

The 10-lap B Grade scratch race started at moderate pace with initial turns at the front by Phil Coulton, Bruce Griffin, Ken Birch and Colin Calderwood. On lap 5 Ian Drayton rolled into the lead and raised the pace a notch. The increased pace continued with further lead outs by Elizabeth Lowe, Alison Hale, Phil Anderson, Colin Calderwood and James Newhouse. When Graeme O’Neill rolled to the front on lap 8, the pack was getting toey. Half a lap later Ian Drayton attacked and a pursuing bunch comprising Tony Beasley, James Newhouse, Phil Anderson, Ken Birch and Phil Coulton streamed around Graeme in hot pursuit of Ian. Ian Drayton held out for the win, closely followed by Tony Beasley and James Newhouse in that order.

The evening’s second event was a series of paired match races over two laps. These races threw up a variety of tactics with some riders opting for a long sprint and others waiting for a short, brutal, final burst. Most of the match races were good close contests, the standout being Craig Kentwell matched against Warwick Wilson. Craig managed to win this race by little more than a tyre width after a final throw at the line. The evenings match race winners were Wayne Benham, Steve Jones, Craig Kentwell, Ian Drayton, Tony Beasley, James Newhouse, Bruce Griffin, Colin Calderwood and Phil Anderson.

The track session closed with the usual, all-in, Italian pursuit. This was a challenging event with big teams (8 riders) putting a strain on the anchor riders. Both teams had good starts and rode without error. Team 1 established an early lead and maintained it for most of the event. However, in the closing laps, Wayne Benham managed a great burst that brough Team 2 virtually level with Team 1. In the final lap Michael Langdon for Team 1 started with a slight advantage over John Paul De Sousa for Team 2. John Paul appeared to be tiring and was unable to make any gain on Michael, thus conceding the win to Team 1. Overall, it was a solid, close contest.

Major place getters for Wednesday were as follows:
10-Lap Scratch: (A Grade) Steve Jones, Michael Langdon, John Paul De Sousa. (B Grade) Ian Drayton, Tony Beasley, James Newhouse.
2-Lap Match Races: (Winners) Wayne Benham, Steve Jones, Craig Kentwell, Ian Drayton, Tony Beasley, James Newhouse, Bruce Griffin, Colin Calderwood, Phil Anderson.
Combined Italian Pursuit: Winner Team 1 (Michael Langdon, Craig Kentwell, Ben Robey, Tony Beasley, Ian Drayton, Graeme O’Neill, Phil Coulton, Elizabeth Lowe).

Season Point Score Update:
Ian Drayton (198), Steve Jones (188), Phil Anderson (176), Ken Birch (163), James Newhouse (164), John Paul De Sousa (160), Wayne Benham (141), Alison Hale (132), Phil Coulton (118), Craig Kentwell (104).

Graeme O’Neill

Lookout Hill – 7th January

Sundays weather was much more agreeable than same time on Saturday in which over 50 starters turned up for a great sunny morning of racing.

A grade 1st off and pretty much stayed together with notable attacks by Stephan Isbal and a great effort by Brendon Byatt coming back after injury. In the end Gerard Tiffen took the win from Marc Vroomans Rainer Wilton.

B grade was also close with Peter Zygadio taking the win from Ben McDuff followed by Luke Bewley. B grades times were only 1 mnute 40 seconds slower than A grade.

C grade was also a good turnout. The ever young John Paul de Sousa won ahead of Kevin Wells followed by Craig Lindenmayer.

In D grade. a smaller field started off at an easy pace to the first turnaround. There were a number of attacks by Pete Harding but the bunch kept him in check. In the end a well deserved win went to Felipe Reis with Peter Evans second in a break away with Sally Thomson winning the bunch sprint for third.

E and F grade started together with solid rides from all. Alex Sommariva took the win from Russell Marston and third was Ian Morton. In her first race, Virginia Lindemayer went the whole distance to take out F grade in a well deserved effort.

Sean Ifland

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  From the Committee

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  Goulburn Cycle Club – Track Power 2021

•  First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

•  2021 AGM – Thinking of Nominating for the ACTVETS Committee?

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

From the Committee

As has previously been advised, Graham Hendrie is taking a well-earned break from road race coordinator/van driver/timing guru/tea and biscuit-er/loader of race results/all-round superhero.

The committee has tried to work out a solution for the list of tasks Graham manages and we have over the last few months sought volunteers for any and all of the duties undertaken. To no avail.

As from April, we are in danger of not being able to offer you any road racing unless we as a club can come up with solutions. So, we are asking you, our members to help us to come up with ideas as to how we can continue to offer a comprehensive race program. We need your help.

At the moment the only suggestion on the table is that each week, race officials for the particular race, would have to coordinate and take on all these roles currently managed by Graham to run the race and identify someone for each race to manage getting the van (with all the correct signage etc.) to and from the race. Note that this doesn’t even address the permanent storing of the van and racing paraphernalia. This would be a logistical nightmare for a club that works off of the support of volunteers.

If you can either offer to help out, or you have some constructive ideas on how we address this we would really appreciate you contacting the club president at president@vets.cc.

Consideration for remuneration may be an option.

Without a workable solution, road racing is in real danger for 2021 and beyond.

Best regards

ACT Vets Committee

From the Desk of the Handicapper

This week’s promotions

Lance Purdon C to B Paul Clare D to C

Vets Out and About–Goulburn Trackpower Carnival

The Goulburn Cycling Club held its premier track event over the weekend with the feature race being the House of Smoke and Fire men’s (handicap) wheelrace. Steve Jones made the trip very worthwhile by taking out the wheelrace from limit, which is the front mark. Here’s Steve’s account of the race.

It’s fair to say the handicapper didn’t have an exact handle on my recent form. There were three of us at or near limit in the final, one guy led the first 900m or so, then I did the final 800m or so on the front and held the other two off and a flying scratchie. I had to go very deep (not being my usual game plan) and loved it!

Fantastic ride Steve. The photo below shows Steve on the top step resplendent with the winner’s sash, and what could be a prize money envelope in his right hand.

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

Goulburn Cycle Club – Track Power 2021

This was my first venture to track racing venue other than Narrabundah.

What a difference !! Near flat banking, circular 400m, bitumen, slowing riders on Highside, picturesque setting with terrific facilities. Circular with no straight makes the ride heaps faster.

Organised and scheduled as a track racing carnival this event goes for several hours finishing under stadium lighting.

• Junior Carnival – 31 events
• NSW U17 Maddison champs x 2
• Invitational roller derby – man on man fastest time to reach 500m
• Senior Carnival – 58 events

Representation by many NSW based clubs (almost 200 racers…. plus family, friends, hangeronerers, hecklers, officials and NSW SES), so is a good gauge/benchmark on how you are doing, by Division, Age and Gender. Many different event types:

• Heart Starter (5 lap scratch)
• Wheel Race heat (5 lap or 3 lap handicap) –> Final race
• – with handler to push you off from standing start from appointed HC distance
• Keirin (4 lap) 2 and a bit with Moto, then sprint = hoot !
• 2 lap handicap
• – with handler
• Scratch (10 or 8 lap)

Very enjoyable day was had by all, notable results being:

• Steve Jones Wheel Race Mens 1st place + heaps$$$cash
• Peta Brill Wheel Race Womens 2nd place + heaps$$$cash
• https://goulburncycleclub.com.au/category/senior-trackpower-2021/ for the podiums in each event

ACT Vets participants mostly using Vikings entry (quiet a few other ACT riders sighted as well)

• Allison Hale
• Elizabeth Lowe
• Brandie O’Connor
• Peta Brill
• Sian Mulholland
• Steve Jones
• …moi (apols if I missed anyone)

Highly recommended as a FUN great day out !

John Paul De Sousa #323

First Aid Courses – 27 February and 3 March

For some time now, ACT Vets’ has been offering First Aid courses to members on a reimbursed basis with thanks to a Road Safety grant from the ACT Government.

With take up being lower than anticipated, we still have significant unexpended funds, and so with the ACT Government’s approval, we have extended the offer to other clubs and Pedal Power. Our expectation is that with the broader membership base of Pedal Power in particular, we will be able to get the required numbers for a couple of group courses in late February – early March.

If you still have an interest in undertaking a First Aid course and you are able to attend a group class on either of the two prospective dates, please click on the link below to register your interest.

Please note that places on the course will be limited to grant funds available.

2021 AGM – Thinking of Nominating for the ACTVETS Committee?

You’d be very welcome. If you would like to know more about how the club works and want to contribute in some way then talk to a current Committee member (details on the web site – https://actvets.cc/about/committee/).

Then fill out and submit a nomination form, prior to the AGM, to the president (president@actvets.cc) and the secretary (secretary@actvets.cc).

Nomination forms are accessed and downloaded via the Member documents shared drive link on the web site (https://actvets.cc/documents/) or contact a committee member.

The AGM for 2021 will be held on Monday 15th February 2021 at 7:00pm in the Loft Meeting Room at the Raiders Club Weston.

Due to COVID restrictions, there is a limit of 32 attendees. For those that wish to attend, could you please pre-register by sending email to the Secretary (secretary@actvets.cc). Any additional attendees or those that can’t attend in person, we will be organising a Zoom session as well.

Russell Marston
Secretary ACT Veterans Cycling Club

COVID-19 Restrictions

There are conditions for travelers from other states.

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.

RACING THIS WEEK:

Tuesday, 2nd February: Stromlo Criterium

Where: Stromlo Forest Park
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number.
Race Description:
A/C 5:50 A 45m+2, C 40m+2
B/D 6:40 B 45m+2, D 40m+2
E/F/G 7:15 30 min + 2 laps

Race Director:  Rosemary Robinson Contact: Email: rosemaryr2@iinet.net.au    Ph  0417 898 917

Marshals: Luke Healy

Wednesday, 3rd February: Track Racing

The Program for Wednesday is;
5.30pm – 6.00pm: Warm-up and free practice.
6.00pm – 6.20pm: 10-lap graded scratch race;
6.20pm – 7.10pm: 2-lap match races.
7.10pm – 7.30pm: Italian pursuit.

Sunday, 7th February – Lookout Hill

Note: This race is currently pending Race Approval

Where: Observation lookout on Tidbinbilla Road about 2.5 km towards Tharwa from Point Hut / Tidbinbilla Rd intersection (or about 4.5 km from Tharwa village).
When: 9:00 am.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
Lookout Hill Lookout Hill 3.5km toward Tharwa, U turn, 5km toward Point Hut, U turn to Lookout Hill. ABCD 4 laps, EFG 3 laps.

Race Director:  Sean Ifland Contact: Email: seanifland@gmail.com    Ph  0412 525 733

Marshals: Christopher Short ETC, Frank O’Sullivan ETC, Gareth Downey

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 26th January

A public holiday and a bit of rain scared away many riders. The Track was wet for the first two races then dried off for the A and C races.

Race 1 was B and D grade.

B grade, with 8 riders, was going nicely when Joel Rahman had a dig. The bunch did not give too much of a gap and Joel got caught. He was not discouraged and went again with the same result, then few riders put the pressure on but nothing stuck as the bunch was alert and no gap was given. With 5 minutes to go Gavin Stephens had a shot but got caught as well. The final sprint was a fast affair with Michael Langdon first, followed by Joel Rahman then Gavin Stephens.

D grade saw 7 riders roll away nicely for 15 minutes, then Anthony Dick tried to escape but the bunch closed the gap as expected. When the race started to warm up, we saw lots of surges which were chased down, Frank O’Sullivan had a good dig with five minutes to go but ran out of legs. The sprint was won by Paul Clare, then Frank O’Sullivan and third was Anthony Dick.

Second race to go we had E,F,G.

E grade had two riders and F had one, to make a field of 3 riders. They decided to race together, with a very nice agreement to tap along nicely for 30 minutes ( a long warm up ) and then put on the gas at the two laps notice. The bell lap saw a sprint, which went to Chris Copeland, followed by Howard Moffat, and then Edward Joliffe from F grade who nearly caused an upset victory on the line.

Third race was A & C grade

With 12 A grade riders, this was the biggest bunch of the evening, bolstered by two newly promoted riders; Gareth Downey and Bruce Goodfellow. As anticipated some riders went full gas early on. The newly promoted riders got dropped after 15 minutes as the pace was very high, with multiple riders trying to break away and inflict pain on the bunch. The racing was hard but no one was able to go away for too long. The stage was set for a fast and close sprint which was won by Jeremy Gillman-Wells, closely followed by Gerard Tiffen second, and Steve Crispin in third.

C grade was the last to go. Rob Langridge made an early escape, where he was looking strong and determined (the handicapper will be noticing this). After two laps the bunch closed the gap, and then stayed together for a while until Bruce McMillan had a good dig at front. He was caught and the bunch finished together to the end. The sprint was won convincingly by Lance Purdon, with Adam Strickland second and Wayne Benham third.

Thank you to everyone who attended, especially, given the inclement conditions.

Thank you to committee members Ian Morton and Russell Marston for helping with the set up and the sign in. Special thanks to Peta Brill to help running a smooth event. And off course the First Aid Officer Simon Whitehead.

Alain Arbaut

Track Racing – 27th January

Overcast weather on Wednesday 27 January did not seem too promising. However, rain held off and the season’s 12th track racing session went ahead under a grey sky with a stiff crosswind in the front and back straights. Attendance was surprising for the conditions, with 17 riders, 8 in A grade and 9 in B grade.

The 8-lap A grade scratch race started at an easy pace with Steve Jones and Ben Davis taking the initial turns. On lap 3 the pace increased slightly after Michael Langdon rolled to the front. However, Michael was being conservative on his recent return to track racing. The pace remained steady until lap 6 when Craig Kentwell surged around the bunch into a 10m lead. Wayne Benham quickly closed the gap opened by Craig. On the next lap Wayne launched out for the final sprint. Steve Jones, John Paul De Sousa and Michael Langdon pursued and overhauled Wayne in the final lap. The pace was torrid with Steve Jones taking a close win from John Paul De Sousa and Michael Langdon. Wayne managed to hang on for fourth place.

The B Grade scratch race was quite orderly for the first 4 laps with riders swapping the lead lap by lap. Ken Birch raised the pace when he rolled into the lead for lap 5. Shortly after Graeme O’Neill took over the lead on lap 6, the bunch pounced, led by James Newhouse with Karen Clutson and Ian Drayton in hot pursuit. Riders streamed around Graeme, their pace accelerating with 2.5 laps to go. The pursuit was torrid with James clear and the remaining pack strung out, but not giving up. Ultimately Ian Drayton and Phil Anderson overhauled James for first and second placings. James held on valiantly to take third place. The female contingent for the B grade race was significantly augmented by new riders, Elizabeth Rowe and Karen Clutson. They joined regular trackie, Alison Hale. The girls held their own and look like they will not be outclassed in B grade.

The evening’s second event was a 4-lap handicap, a real gut-wrenching event. The race was run all-in with 16 riders on the track, though fortunately strung out due to handicaps. This was a race in which A grade reversed their recent fortunes in handicap races. Michael Langdon proved strongest, chasing down the leaders in the final lap to take the win. Wayne Benham pursued with Michael and was rewarded with second placing. There was an almighty tussle for third place with Ken Birch retrieving some honour for B grade by just holding out a fast-closing John Paul De Sousa.

Fourth event for the evening comprised graded points races. A grade did 10 laps and B grade did 8 laps. Both races had a single, intermediate sprint and a finish sprint for double points. In A grade, the points results were Steve Jones (14), Michael Langdon (9), Ben Davis (6), Wayne Benham (5), Warwick Wilson & John Paul D Sousa (4), Kerry Knowler (3). B Grade almost had an upset when a superb effort from Alison Hale won her the final sprint over normally unbeatable Ian Drayton. However, Ian had done better in the intermediate sprint, so took the overall points honours. B grade points results were Ian Drayton (13), Alison Hale (11), Tony Beasley (10), James Newhouse & Elizabeth Lowe (4), Phil Anderson (3).

The track session closed with the usual, all-in, Italian pursuit. The teams were 6 riders each. Both teams had good starts and rode without error. Team 1 established an early lead and maintained it over the event. However, Team 1’s lead shrunk to around 6 metres by the closing stages. In the final lap, it seemed just possible for Team 2’s Warwick Wilson to close the gap on a tiring Ben Davis who was anchor for Team 1. Warwick put in a superb effort. However, Ben could see the prize in sight and managed to find that small extra impetus to deliver Team 1 the win.

Major place getters for Wednesday were as follows:
8-Lap Scratch: (A Grade) Steve Jones, John Paul De Sousa, Michael Langdon. (B Grade) Ian Drayton, Phil Anderson, James Newhouse.
4-Lap Handicap: (A&B Grades) Michael Langdon, Wayne Benham, Ken Birch.
Points Race: (A Grade) Steve Jones (14), Michael Langdon (9), Ben Davis (6), Wayne Benham (5), Warwick Wilson & John Paul D Sousa (4), Kerry Knowler (3). (B Grade) Ian Drayton (13), Alison Hale (11), Tony Beasley (10), James Newhouse & Elizabeth Lowe (4), Phil Anderson (3).
Combined Italian Pursuit: Winner Team 1 (John Paul De Sousa, Ben Davis, Wayne Benham, Tony Beasley, Phil Anderson, Karen Clutson).

Season Point Score Update:
Ian Drayton (178), Steve Jones (173), Phil Anderson (162), Ken Birch (150), James Newhouse (148), John Paul De Sousa (146), Wayne Benham (126), Alison Hale (121), Phil Coulton (105), Ben Davis (97).

Graeme O’Neill

Tidbinbilla Handicap – 31st January

Unfortunately due to administrative issues, we could not secure race approvals in time to run this event.