Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  From the Desk of the President

•  Canberra Events

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

From the Desk of the President

Shipping Container

Thanks to John McMaster the container is now level. And thanks to Darren Blackhurst we’ve got most to the interior painted.

Dangerous Overtaking

There have been a number of complaints from lower grades of a dangerous situation that arises when being overtaken by higher grades.

As shown in the below diagram, there is a tendency in some situations, particularly on corners, for the lead riders of the overtaking bunch, once they have passed the lower grade to move across onto the racing line of the lower grade.

The remaining members of the overtaking bunch then tend to follow the racing line that the leaders have taken, resulting in the lower grade being cut-off.

To avoid this situation, the Lead Riders of the overtaking bunch are requested to remain on the opposite side of the Track Centre Line until the whole bunch has had the opportunity to pass (even if this means sacrificing some tactical advantage).

Your assistance in following this practice will help make racing safer for all competitors.

Canberra Events

The Fathering Project

The Fathering Project – The ‘Big Push’ Charity Ride April 30 2021 Sydney to Canberra

Run over 3 days and covering 280kms, the Big Push is a fun-filled cycling event that brings fathers, father figures (and family members) together with one goal: celebrating their most important role – being a dad. Further details available from the web site https://thefatheringproject.org/event/the-big-push-charity-ride-2020/.

Rotary Rides Canberra – Five Peaks Challenge

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, 30th March: Stromlo Criterium

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

Race Director:  Rico Fitch Contact: Email: rico.fitch@gmail.com    Ph  0422 893 517

Marshals: Gary Waldron

Wednesday, 31st March: No Track Racing

Track racing has concluded for the 20/21 season.

Sunday, 4th March: No Road Race

Road Racing has concluded for the 20/21 season.

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 23rd March

Crit racing was cancelled due to the wet weather.

Track RacingSeason 20/21

The 2020-21 Track Racing Season concluded on Wednesday 24 March with a team race, trophy presentation and drinks to celebrate a very successful season. The 2020-21 track season was a welcome change from the previous season which was heavily disrupted by the combination of bushfire smoke, rain and Covid-19. Only two sessions were disrupted in 20-21, both by rain. We were fortunate that the presentation event went ahead in fine weather after a week of flooding rains.

A total of 37 riders participated in one or more of the 20-21 track racing sessions. Since the transfer of our track program to the Bundadome venue in 2014, a total of 76 riders from the club have participated in Track racing. This season’s attendance was up on last year, with 12 – 20 riders being the norm. The A grade attendance trailed off a little towards the end of the season. However, B grade went from strength to strength with up to 12 riders racing in the recent sessions. Judging by the expressions of appreciation from riders, the enjoyment level from racing was as high as ever.

There were 18 evening track sessions with around 65 races over the season. The season provided a variety of race formats including scratch races, handicaps, pursuits, match races, points races, sprints and time trials. All races contributed to an overall Track Championship. This year Steve Jones took out the Track Championship. It has been good to see several riders in contention for the championship in recent years. Steve is a most deserving winner as he has been a regular trackie for many years and is likely the strongest sprinter from the regular track group. It was good to see B grade riders well up in the Championship point scores. Ian Drayton took out second place in the Track Championship with James Newhouse taking third place. Both of these riders had strong seasons. Ian was the benchmark rider in B Grade and James was a track stalwart and regular podium finisher in B grade.

The track season was almost injury free. Graeme O’Neill had a fall when his pedal clipped the high banking at slow speed. Ben Davis lost concentration during one of the warm-ups and clipped a wheel. Ben’s accident caused him more trauma than expected. However, both accidents were relatively minor with no lasting injury. In the last eight years, we have had only five minor accidents at track. Despite the speed, close quarters racing and lack of brakes, track racing is consistently the safest race discipline offered by the club.

The standard of riding was high and most of the regular riders improved considerably over the season. As usual, it was difficult to select the most improved rider because most riders improved their performance markedly over the season. However, this season’s award for most improved rider went to Alison Hale from B grade. Alison started as one of the back markers in B grade and progressed over the season to be one of the front runners.

The track season included a handicap Wheel Race just prior to Christmas, with the trophy taken by Ben Davis. Towards the end of the season, we ran a four-event Omnium Championship. The results for this event are decided by “the algorithm” which attempts to equalise the chances of all track participants, regardless of grading. This year Ben Davis took out the Omnium Championship, capping off a very successful season for Ben.

20-21 Track Medal Winners:

(L to R: Alison Hale: Most Improved Rider, Ben Davis, Xmas Wheel Race winner & Omnium Champion, Steve Jones: Overall Track Champion, James Newhouse & Ian Drayton: Bronze & Silver medallists for the Track Championship).

This summary would not be complete without acknowledging and thanking all the parties who contributed to the track season. This includes the club committee who book the venue, support the track racing discipline and publish results, Simon from Sports Medicine, all those who assisted in myriad ways over the season and, finally, the riders who invariably displayed the best competitive spirit and camaraderie.

Graeme O’Neill

Track Season Results

Christmas Wheel Race Results (1st – 5th):
Ben Davis, Warwick Wilson, Ben Robey, Wayne Benham, Ian Drayton

Final Omnium Championship Points:
Ben Davis (16), Phil Coulton (13), Ken Birch (11), Steve Jones, Phil Anderson (10), Alison Hale, John Paul De Sousa, Tony Beasley (9), Bruce Griffin, James Newhouse (7), Rowan McMurray, Colin Calderwood (6).

Final 20/21 Track Championship Point Scores:
Steve Jones (278), Ian Drayton (264), James Newhouse (248), Phil Anderson (236), John Paul De Sousa (226), Ken Birch (203), Alison Hale (197), Phil Coulton (190), Tony Beasley (172), Wayne Benham (168), Craig Kentwell (160), Bruce Griffin (141).

Most Improved Rider:
Alison Hale

Uriarra Roubaix – 28th March

Heavy fog and single digit temperatures greeted 24 starters at the annual Uriarra Roubaix, conditions not unlike springtime in Northern France.

The atmosphere was tense and the riders contemplated the racing ahead whilst closely examining the equipment choices of their competitors.

As the sun broke through and the temperatures rose, the A graders rolled off first for 3 laps of the challenging course ahead. A number of regular heavy hitters promised a tough day out.

B graders were next featuring the return to racing of Charles Nichol. 7 riders battled out for C grade and 2 hardy E graders set out for a leisurely 2 laps.

Perfect conditions and not a breath of wind prevailed for rest of the day. As the A graders rolled through for their first lap Nathan Spillane, Gerard Tiffen, Paul Scherl, Jeremy Gillman-Wells and Steve Crispin were setting a solid pace at the front.

B grade was starting to split, C grade was much more social and our 2 E graders were hardly breaking a sweat.

As the day wore on, the gravel was taking its toll. DNF’s told stories of wombats, snakes and potholes big enough to have their own Strava segment.

As A headed into the last lap, Jeremy, Steve, Gerard and Paul were inseparable. With Gerard eventually pulling away to take the win from Paul and Jeremy. It was the Charles Nicol of old who took the B grade win followed by Bruce Goodfellow and Grant Shaw.

C grade was taken out by John Paul De Susa with Peter Balint and Kevin Wells Rounding out the podium. Our E graders were all smiles as they crossed the line together, with Alex Sommariva perhaps just edging out Simon Milnes in the final lunge for the line.

Thanks to Ashley Carruthers, Robert Langridge, Russell Marston and Paul Welsh for assistance today – together of course with Graham Hendrie and Simon Whitehead.

Andrew Chamberlain

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  2020/2021 Summer Season – Places up for Grabs

•  From the Desk of the President

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  Canberra Events

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

2020/2021 Summer Season – Places up for Grabs

With only a few races left till the end of the 2020 2021 summer season there is still opportunities for a change in the order of the top three women and men riders.

For the women Penelope Anderson is in top spot with an unassailable lead of 75 points. 2nd and 3rd places will be a jostle between Pat Rooke (78), Rosemary Robinson (70), Terri Moore (65) and Linda Stals (52).

For the men top shot will be hard fought between Lance Pardon (152) and Gerard Tiffen (147). Third place is wide open. Marc Vroomans (114) and Alex Sommariva (104) in close contention with Christophe Barberet (99) and Kevin Newhouse (95) not far behind.

Members can follow the summer season standings on the Results page on the web site (select season and choose 2020-2021 Road Summer).

From the Desk of the President

Working Bee – Painting the interior of the club’s new shipping container – RESCHEDULED

The Committee recently purchased a 40ft shipping container to store the van, club signage and other race paraphernalia. It is located at Stromlo.

It is dark and gloomy inside – so we would like to organise a working bee to brighten up the internal walls.

We are seeking 6-8 people to help out at 9:30am, Saturday 27th March at Stromlo.

We estimate it will take approximately 2 hours of work. We can’t pay you but can reward you with a burger at the Handlebar afterwards!

No prior experience is required, and the Committee will organise the paint and supplies. There is currently no power to the location.

If you can help us out, please contact me at president@actvets.cc.

Dangerous Overtaking

There have been a number of complaints from lower grades of a dangerous situation that arises when being overtaken by higher grades.

As shown in the below diagram, there is a tendency in some situations, particularly on corners, for the lead riders of the overtaking bunch, once they have passed the lower grade to move across onto the racing line of the lower grade.

The remaining members of the overtaking bunch then tend to follow the racing line that the leaders have taken, resulting in the lower grade being cut-off.

To avoid this situation, the Lead Riders of the overtaking bunch are requested to remain on the opposite side of the Track Centre Line until the whole bunch has had the opportunity to pass (even if this means sacrificing some tactical advantage).

Your assistance in following this practice will help make racing safer for all competitors.

From the Desk of the Handicapper

Vets Out and About

If you think your weekly long ride on a Saturday is hard, spare a thought for the clubs own super distance rider Rowan Mcmurray who is competing in the Indian Pacific wheel ride from Perth to Sydney.

And at last check he was leading by a mere 180kms from the 2nd place rider. That’s like the length of the straight at crits in long distance speak.

You can check his progress here and yes he will be passing through Canberra on his way to the finish line in Sydney so members are welcome to get out and cheer him along.

indianpacificwheelride2021.maprogress.com/

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

Canberra Events

The Fathering Project

The Fathering Project – The ‘Big Push’ Charity Ride April 30 2021 Sydney to Canberra

Run over 3 days and covering 280kms, the Big Push is a fun-filled cycling event that brings fathers, father figures (and family members) together with one goal: celebrating their most important role – being a dad. Further details available from the web site https://thefatheringproject.org/event/the-big-push-charity-ride-2020/.

Rotary Rides Canberra – Five Peaks Challenge

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 March: 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 E/F/G 20m+2
A/C 6:15 A 28m+2, C 28m+2
B/D 6:50 B 28m+2, D 25m+2

Race Director:  Heath Chester Contact: Email: heathtracy@iinet.net.au    Ph  0419 162 193

Marshals: Jason Chalker

Wednesday, 24th March: Track Racing

The Track Presentation evening will be this Wednesday. There will be no charge for this session.

Warm up starts, as usual, at 5.30pm. There will be a single team race at 6.00pm.

Trophy presentation and season celebration will follow the racing. Drinks and nibbles provided. If you bring a plate, it will be appreciated.

All Club Members and Interested Parties Welcome! It would be great if as many track participants as possible could attend this session.

Sunday, 28th March: Uriarra Roubaix – combined bitumen and dirt race

Where: Intersection of Uriarra Rd and Mtn Creek Rd. Keep intersection clear when parking.
When: 9:00 am.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
Start at crn Mtn Creek Rd and Uriarra Rd. To top of crossing, return and turn right onto Mtn Creek Rd to Swamp Crk. Return to intersection for 1 lap.
ABCD – 3 laps,
EFG – 2 laps

Race Director: Andrew Chamberlain Contact: Email: achamberlain@blackshaw.com.au    Ph  0412 411 422

Marshals: Ashley Carruthers, Russell Marston ETC, Robert Langridge ETC, Paul Welsh ETC

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 16th March

With warm up complete (albeit in the wrong direction) A and C were first to go. Conditions were a touch on the cold side with a moderate cross head wind coming down the main straight. That didn’t seem to concern the A graders with action right from the off. With only 28 minutes plus 2 laps to race, the race was action packed. 7 riders got out early until the bunch worked to pull them back. Then Gerrard Tiffen and Heath Wade pushed off the front with Gerrard continuing solo for a few laps after Heath dropped back to the bunch. After Gerrard was caught, Heath made another attack and this time it was Michael Payne who joined him. With 13 minutes left to race everyone was back together again. The pace must have been high as a number of riders were spat out the back. A couple more attacks went but nothing stuck. In the end it was Gerrard who won the sprint from the front, closely followed by Marc Vroomans and Christophe Barberet in third.

C grade by contrast held a steady rhythm for the first part of the race until 3 riders were are to jump free and work out to a lead of about 1/3 of a lap. By working well together, they held this gap for the entire race and it them came down to a 3 way sprint for the podium positions. Ben Neal took it on the line followed by James Tonkin and Brian Peak rounded out the podium.

B and D grades set of next and after a couple of laps to ease into the race, something came flying out of the B group towards the race officials area. Upon closer inspection it was the race number of the president Seymour Savell-Boss. Next time round Seymour apologised for the near miss, and there was talk within to race officials about what to do. It was agreed we would wait until the end of the race to decide his fate. With 10 minutes to go, Carmine Spagnoletti pushed hard and worked out to a 5 second gap. Was it the winning move? Despite the effort it was not and the bunch was spread out thin due to the high pace of the chase. A bunch sprint saw Seymour (sans race number) the winner followed by Colin Kelly and Ed Logue. It was decided that Seymour would not face any action for the lost number because he pointed out, if any sanction went to the committee, he would dismiss it. Perks of the position!

D grade saw Anthony Dick push his way off the front from lap 3 and soon after was joined by Josh Quilliam. They worked well as a third rider Frank O’Sullivan was able to bridge across. As with C grade, the trio were able to hold the bunch at bay for the rest of the race and it was the initial aggressor Anthony who took the win, with Josh in second and Frank in third.

With the light quickly fading, E, F and G grades set off. With no rider able to get away from their respective E and F grades, it was Geoff Ellacott, Linda Stals and Penelope Anderson in that order for the podium in E grade. F grade saw Ken Birch on top, with Robert Miller in second and Ross Heazlewood in third.

G grade riders Gai Monahan and Bernard Crowe stuck together until the half way point when Gai pushed on and was able to pull a significant gap by the end. G grade rider and race marshal Mijo (Mike) gave an inside scoop on Gai commenting that she likes to push a comparatively big gear. Was and is this the secret to her success?

Two safety concerns were raised on the night. The first was about close passing other grades. Please ensure that when you do pass another grade you call out which side you are passing and stay well clear from the other grade.

The second was about riding close to the edge of the track and allowing a safety margin. First Aider Simon made this observation and described some rather unpleasant outcomes from dropped wheels over the edge of the track.

Thanks to committee member Dougal and marshal Mike for their assistance on the night.

Mat Corby

Track Racing – 17th March

Weather was the crucial factor for the season’s last competitive track racing session. It was overcast and threatening all day. However, as no rain had fallen up to the start of the track session, it seemed likely that we were in luck. There was reasonable rider attendance in the circumstances and the warm up session was completed without drama.

Just prior to the first track event, a light rain shower soaked the track and passed on. Normally, the track would dry quickly from this event. However, because of the cool overcast day there was no heat in the track and little prospect that it would dry before we ran out of light. The situation was not helped by a light drizzle, falling sporadically. Given the circumstances, a decision was made, reluctantly, to abandon racing for the evening.

Note that a final (non-competitive) track session will be held on Wednesday 24. This session will include the normal warm up, limited racing, trophy presentations and a celebration of the completed track season. See Track Program herein for details.

Final Omnium Championship Points:
Ben Davis (16), Phil Coulton (13), Ken Birch (11), Steve Jones, Phil Anderson (10), Alison Hale, John Paul De Sousa, Tony Beasley (9), Bruce Griffin, James Newhouse (7), Rowan McMurray, Colin Calderwood (6).

Final 20/21 Track Championship Point Scores:
Steve Jones (278), Ian Drayton (264), James Newhouse (248), Phil Anderson (236), John Paul De Sousa (226), Ken Birch (203), Alison Hale (197), Phil Coulton (190), Tony Beasley (172), Wayne Benham (168), Craig Kentwell (160), Bruce Griffin (141).

Graeme O’Neill

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  From the Desk of the President

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  Canberra Events

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

From the Desk of the President

Working Bee – Painting the interior of the club’s new shipping container

The Committee recently purchased a 40ft shipping container to store the van, club signage and other race paraphernalia. It is located at Stromlo.

It is dark and gloomy inside – so we would like to organise a working bee to brighten up the internal walls.

We are seeking 6-8 people to help out at 9:30am, Sunday 21 March at Stromlo (noting that the Sunday race has been cancelled due to race approvals not being provided).

We estimate it will take approximately 2 hours of work. We can’t pay you but can reward you with a burger at the Handlebar afterwards!

No prior experience is required, and the Committee will organise the paint and supplies. There is currently no power to the location.

If you can help us out, please contact me at president@actvets.cc.

From the Desk of the Handicapper

Vets Out and About

Congratulations to Peta Brill who won the criterium stage and was second overall in the women’s Division 2 Bathurst Cycling Classic, which Cycling NSW erroneously described as the first stage race to be held in NSW since 2013. It’s wonderful that it has achieved this milestone but of course, it was oblivious to the fact that the Vets have held a stage race at Gunning every year since the 90s.

Handicaps

Crit Handicap changes;
– Joel Rahman B to A
– Eoin Rothery D to C
– Kevin Newhouse D to C
– Des Brown E to D

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

Canberra Events

The Fathering Project

The Fathering Project – The ‘Big Push’ Charity Ride April 30 2021 Sydney to Canberra

Run over 3 days and covering 280kms, the Big Push is a fun-filled cycling event that brings fathers, father figures (and family members) together with one goal: celebrating their most important role – being a dad. Further details available from the web site https://thefatheringproject.org/event/the-big-push-charity-ride-2020/.

Rotary Rides Canberra – Five Peaks Challenge

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 March: 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 28m+2, C 25m+2
B/D 6:25 B 28m+2, D 25m+2
E/F/G 7:00 E/F/G 20 m + 2

Race Director:  Mathew Corby Contact: Email: mathew.corby@bigpond.com    Ph  0431 477 536

Marshals: Mijo (Michael) Spoljaric

Wednesday, 17th March: 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).
6.50pm – 7.10pm: 2-lap handicap (time permitting).
7.10pm – 7.30pm: Italian pursuit.

Sunday, 21st March: Race Cancelled

Due to the new conditions being imposed by the Yass Council to conduct racing and the roadworks being undertaken, the Dog Trap Road event this weekend has been cancelled.

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 9th March

Firstly a big thank you to committee members Ian and Kirsti McVay for looking after all the race admin and registration, and to Dale Dummett for marshalling the race, helping with all the set up, race timing and finish line placings, this freed me to concentrate on having as safe and fair a race as possible. And off course thank you to the First Aid Officer Simon Whitehead who thankfully wasn’t “required” on the night.

Fine and windy conditions saw a good turnout, with plenty of breakaways and chases to keep things interesting. No kangaroos, ducks or snakes to report for once, only a couple of pee wees “obsessive compulsive” with the finishing line area.

First saw B (24) and D (26) set off. A total of 50 riders on the track.

In B grade Simon Junakovic went for a solo escape from the first lap, you would think he knows better than that!, but who am I to say that! That certainly set the standard for the night. Simon was replaced at the front by Ben Zeller and Dale Riley. They too lasted a couple of laps and were replaced by another attacking duo Darren Blackhurst and Mark Vardy. Two laps seemed to be the limit for the breakaways though and the bunch soon regrouped. Just within 10′ to go Dale and Darren went again only to be eventually caught and make way to a bunch sprint convincingly won by Joel Rahman, with Lance Purdon and Dale Riley backing up for the podium places.

D grade was also a race paced by many breakaway. Kevin Newhouse and Mark Taylor got the jump ahead of the bunch for about 4 laps before gruppo compacto then with about 10′ left in the race David Hennessy and John Ross did a one lapper ahead of the rest, John decided to wait for the pack and left David alone at the front. Not for long though, that was very tempting for some so Eoin Rothery and Mark Taylor joined him. It looked like it could go to the end, big commitment from both the escapees and the chasing pack…it all came back together for the sprint finish won by Eoin Rothery ahead of Kevin Newhouse and Frank O’Sullivan.

Then we moved to E (8), F (4) and G (3) grades.

E grade was a war of attrition with people slowly drifting off the back due to the consistent pace imposed at the front. With under 10′ left in the race the front group was reduced to 5 riders with Chris Reis taking a flyer. it stayed as such until the final sprint. The race was won by Chris Reis ahead of Des Brown and Cat Riley.

F grade was a compact well disciplined group all the way to the finish, the sprint to the line was fierce and won by Ken Birch, with Robert Miller in second place and Ross Heazlewood on the last step of the podium.

G grade was sorted very early with both Gai Monahan and Mijo Spoljaric riding away from everyones favorite, Mr Bernard Crowe. Bernard kept them honest, but 2 is often better than 1 and both Gai (1st) and Mijo (2nd) stayed away to the finish line with Bernard claiming 3rd position not far behind.

The evening closed off with A (14) and C (18) grades:

C grade went off with a bang, 3 riders escaping in the first lap (Adam Strickland, Ben Neal and James Tonkin). The bunch was chasing hard and managed to bring them back after 4 laps. This early onslaught took its toll and it took a little while before anyone else had recovered enough to attack. That was Adam and James again escaping but just for one lap this time. The pace was too high for any other substantial attack to succeed and it all came to a bunch sprint. The closest sprint of the night with riders drag racing all across the finish straight… it was a photo finish with Adam Strickland winning ahead of James Tonkin and Scott Rea.

That left us with the A grade race. Straight away last week winner, Mark Terracini went on a solo move. The pace was not fully on, with a bit of cat and mouse play between the bunch and Terra. Then after 10′ it all erupted! Michael Pain started the hostilities in the bunch, Jeremy GW counter attacked and Terra was reeled in… or was he? No he was just close enough for Paul Scherl to jump across with both men leaving the bunch behind, it was too tempting for some and Jimmy Carroll jumped solo in hot pursuit of the duo, that was a very powerful long effort that Jimmy gave us, he eventually caught them and the 3 riders started to work together to increase the gap. The Tiffens boys were on the back foot for a second or two, but Gerard brutalised his bike for a lap and breached the gap to the front group on his own. Phew, that was a pretty entertaining few laps. From that point on the race was a hard slog with the 4 breakaway riders working well as a team and increasing their lead with constant hard pace. The bunch had to settle to fight out for 5th place. It came to a final lap sprint. Jimmy went hard early from the top corner, that must have been brutal and only Tiff and Terra could eventually catch him but not before the exit of Collarbone corner, Tiff counter attacked straight away for the win. Jimmy did not give up and nearly caught back Tiff before the finish, with Terra claiming the last podium spot.

Christophe Barberet

Track Racing – 10th March

Weather for the season’s 18th track racing session was hot with just a slight wind. The wind increased a little as racing progressed. However, overall, conditions were ideal for racing. The attendance in B grade has been trending up. An encouraging 12 B grade riders signed on for the session with a healthy female contingent of 4 riders. A grade had a reasonable roll up with 6 riders. The track session was the concluding session for the track championship point scoring.

The 8-lap, A grade, scratch race started at an easy pace with Craig Kentwell leading out. It did not take long for the action to commence. On lap 2 Steve Jones rolled to the front and soon Tristan Dimmock put in a savage attack from near the front. Tristan was having a first ride with the track group and is clearly a strong rider. He soon established a 20m gap and strung out the pursuing bunch. Tristan kept increasing his lead lap by lap. Steve Jones pursued doggedly and, initially, looked like he would catch Tristan. However, as he could not gain Tristan’s wheel quickly, he eventually tired and had to concede the lead. Eventually Tristan cruised home for the win with a 70m margin over Steve Jones with Rowan McMurray in third place.

The 8-lap B grade scratch race began with Tony Beasley leading out. The pace was surging up and down as Ian Drayton, Phil Coulton, Ken Birch and James Newhouse swapped into the lead. On lap 5 Mark Canadier rolled to the front and put in another surge. Lap 6 commenced with two pacelines and riders hammering towards the finish. The bunch was soon splayed up the banking in several pacelines. However, despite the furious pace, the riding remained disciplined and safe. Ultimately Ian Drayton surged around the bunch with Tony Beasley, Alison Hale, Elizabeth Lowe and Tara Dickens in hot pursuit. Ian Drayton contested a close sprint with Tony Beasley and emerged the winner. Tony took second place. Mark Canaider put in a big finish sprint to outrun the remaining bunch for third place.

The evening’s second event was a 200 Fly, a timed sprint over 200m from a flying start. It is difficult to get this event just right. All-out sprint power and flying start technique are the keys to the event. A-grade times were very competitive with the first three being Tristan Dimmock (13.17s), Steve Jones (13.42s) and Kerry Knowler (14.29s). B-grade times were also quite competitive with the first three being Ian Drayton (14.20s), Phil Coulton (14.59s) and Ken Birch (14.84s). The fastest rider (Tristan Dimmock) averaged 56.6 km/hr over the timed section.

It was intended to run a 4-lap handicap as the evening’s third event. However, as the light was fading, it was necessary to drop this event and close the session with the usual, all-in, Italian pursuit. The pursuit had large teams (8 riders). Unusually, the event was pure chaos. Both teams made good starts but the errors soon commenced. Team 1 surrendered the event when their paceline split severely, leaving Elizabeth Lowe exposed and soon exhausted. The team tried to patch things up with an improvised paceline but the damage was done and they no longer figured in the race. Team 2 was only marginally better with several less severe splits in the paceline. However, their win was made easy by the chaos in Team 1. Fortunately, riders accepted the troubles with good nature and still enjoyed the racing. However, the event did highlight the importance of disciplined team work in pursuits.

Major place getters for Wednesday were as follows:
8-Lap Scratch: (A Grade) Tristan Dimock, Steve Jones, Rowan McMurray. (B Grade) Ian Drayton, Tony Beasley, Mark Canaider.
200m Fly (TT): (A Grade) Tristan Dimmock (13.17s), Steve Jones (13.42s), Kerry Knowler (14.29s). (B Grade) Ian Drayton (14.20s), Phil Coulton (14.59s), Ken Birch (14.84s).
Combined Italian Pursuit: Winner Team 2 (Triston Dimmock, Rowan McMurray, Steve Hirsler, Phil Coulton, Mark Canaider, James Newhouse, Taryn Dickens, Alison Hale).

Final Omnium Championship Points:
Ben Davis (16), Phil Coulton (13), Ken Birch (11), Steve Jones, Phil Anderson (10), Alison Hale, John Paul De Sousa, Tony Beasley (9), Bruce Griffin, James Newhouse (7), Rowan McMurray, Colin Calderwood (6).

Final Season Point Scores (Track Championship):
Steve Jones (278), Ian Drayton (264), James Newhouse (248), Phil Anderson (236), John Paul De Sousa (226), Ken Birch (203), Alison Hale (197), Phil Coulton (190), Tony Beasley (172), Wayne Benham (168), Craig Kentwell (160), Bruce Griffin (141).

Graeme O’Neill

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  From the Desk of the Handicapper

•  Canberra Events

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

From the Desk of the Handicapper

Vets Out and About

Two weekends ago, club members converged on the velodrome in Sydney and well done to Peta Brill in taking out the points and scratch race for the NSW masters’ track champs.

Last weekend, Vets gathered at Wagga Wagga for the Tolland handicaps. The course is very flat with only one hill (not that I could make it over) and consists of 15km laps so the race ends with a bunch of about 60 riders while everyone else has already dropped out. Terry Moore riding off limit was caught up in chaos of the KOM sprint and then joined our bunch for a while. Two punctures ended Bruce Goodspeed’s day early. Mark Harris and Rainer Wilton were in the mad charge for the line and fortunately missed the mass pile up with 300m to go. Ben Morrison in the Quon jersey negotiated the chaos to be 9th overall.

The Sunday race was a lap less for 75km. I decided to go to the Wagga Wagga art gallery but Michael Payne and Marc Vroomans came up for the day. Marc was 14th overall, which was another great result among a string of strong performances this season. Michael and Mark Harris were back in the rampaging bunch while Bruce was just behind.

Handicaps

No handicap changes this week.

Rob Langridge
Handicapper

Canberra Events

The Fathering Project

The Fathering Project – The ‘Big Push’ Charity Ride April 30 2021 Sydney to Canberra

Run over 3 days and covering 280kms, the Big Push is a fun-filled cycling event that brings fathers, father figures (and family members) together with one goal: celebrating their most important role – being a dad. Further details available from the web site https://thefatheringproject.org/event/the-big-push-charity-ride-2020/.

Rotary Rides Canberra – Five Peaks Challenge

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 March: Stromlo Criterium

Where: Stromlo Forest Park
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number.
Race Description:
B/D 5:50 B 30m+2, D 25m+2
E/F/G 6:25 E/F/G 22 m + 2
A/C 6:55 A 30m+2, C 25m+2

Race Director:  Christophe Barberet Contact: Email: barberetchristophe@gmail.com    Ph  0402 688 452

Marshals: Dale Dummett

Wednesday, 10th March: 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 (Time Trial).
6.50pm – 7.10pm: 4-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, 14th February: Old Federal Highway Handicap

Note: This race is still subject to race approvals being finalised. Please check the RMS and Bleat for confirmation.

Vets,

Sorry, there was an error in the date for this weekend’s race;

Sunday, 14th March: Old Federal Highway Handicap

Note: This race is still subject to race approvals being finalised. Please check the RMS and Bleat for confirmation.

Where: Turn left off new Federal Hwy (dual carriageway) after Bywong Rd. The intersection is signposted to Gundaroo and approx 9 km after Sutton Rd overpass. Park in gravel pit on corner of next intersection about 100 m in from highway.
When: 9:00 am.
Sign on: 15 mins before scheduled start time wearing your registered number
Race Description:
Gravel Pit – Tulip Farm
All Grades 3 Laps

Race Director: Ian Morton Contact: Email: mortoni@optusnet.com.au    Ph  0411112007

Marshals: James Tonkin, Stjepan Hirsler, Stuart Roesler, Al Raitt TBC

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 2nd March

With perfect early autumn weather the weeks criterium racing got under way with E, F and G grades. First out of the blocks was E grade with a field of six. Over the first half of the race six became five and then four. This was how it stayed until the last lap with Linda Stahls finishing the strongest to claim 1st place from Mick Donaldson 2nd and Chris Reis 3rd.

The eight riders from F grade rolled away next and from the start Adrian Breen acted as the locomotive at the front for the first three or four laps. A few riders slipped away off the back as the remaining five riders kept formation until the final straight. In the closest finish of the night Mike Hayes pipped Robert Millar by the tread on his tyre. Crossing the line in third no doubt due to all the early work was Adrian Breen.

G grade provided an individual pursuit feel to the evening with Gai Monahan and Bernard Crowe showing that not everyone sits in the bunch all night. Both riders stayed out of trouble from the passing bunches with Gai pocketing the win and Bernard second.

The second tranche of racing started with 22 A graders and it was on from the first corner. A five rider break of Steve Crispin, Matthew Corby, Jeremy Gillman-Wells, Mark Terracini and “peu tard” Christophe Barberet broke away from the biggest field of the night. The break was working together and maintained a steady distance from the bunch for the first half of the race. The second half of the race saw more excitement and attempts to get away from the main bunch which saw the gap to the breakaway shrink to 20 seconds. With two laps to go Steve Crispin attacked the breakaway and held off his former partners for a lap then it was back to the five out in front together. The last lap saw the main bunch drag itself almost to the break by the last bend and ensure a frantic last few hundred meters of racing. With the field spread along the home straight Mark Terracini was first just ahead of Steve Crispin and Matthew Corby. The break all made it home meters before the field streamed across the line in ones and twos. An out of contract Conan Lui bringing home the second half of the race to show any director’s sportive watching there is a season or two of crits in the old legs still.

Giving away the length of the straight as a start the 16 strong C grade was off next. The bunch was stretched out several times on the climb up the back straight but was always able to regroup down the finishing straight to keep mostly together all race. The eternal question of weather the passing bunch goes by on the inside or the outside was tested several times during the race and the pinch point often the right hand bend at the end of the main straight. The race pace went up in the last few laps and a few riders at times forced the bunch into single file but no real split eventuated. At the line it was gold to Dale Kleeman, silver to James Tonkin and bronze to Gillian Lugg.

With the long shadows slowly becoming fading light the breeze picked up, the temperature dropped and B grade started racing. Plenty of riders were keen to test the bunch’s resolve and every time up the back straight it was single file with small openings appearing. More often than not it was the young at heart ( and lungs ) David McCook closing the gaps. A break of two did form with Joel Rahman and Gerry Walsh looking to keep the sprinters at bay. The bunch moved up a gear to bring it all back together. The final bunch sprint endured despite late efforts and Joel Rahman busy at the front. In the it was Gerry Walsh 1st, Joel Rahman 2nd and Ed logue 3rd. With a sixth sense the handicapper was present David McCook slid back through the field to finish 16th.

The jovial mood of the D grade riders watching the earlier races was soon lowered as the evening breeze, along with the faces huffed and puffed. The plan seemed to be safety in numbers with only Josh Quinlan going of script for the main part of the race. In the dimming light and two laps to go Frank O’Sullivan moved up the road with the all in pursuit. Next on the bell lap Iain Johnstone to give the solo victory a try. Turning back the clock Al Bontjer made the race his by sprinting home on the outside with more than a bike length to spare. Coming in behind in second place was Kevin Newhouse and Rico Fitch third. There must have been some frustration with the lead out teams as the pre-race favourites Don de Smet and Bruce Griffin rolling in at the back of the field ruing what might have been.

Allan Bontjer

Track Racing – 3rd March

Weather for the season’s 17th track racing session was warm with rain threatening towards the end of the session. The wind was slight. Overall, conditions were very good for racing. Attendance held up again in B grade with 10 riders. A grade had a reasonably healthy roll up with 7 riders.

The 8-lap, A grade, scratch race started at tempo pace with Steve Jones leading out. Over the first four laps, lead out turns by Craig Kentwell, John Paul De Sousa and Steve Hirsler kept the pace steady. Ben Davis rolled into the lead at the end of lap 4 and on lap 5 cranked up the pace causing a split in the bunch. Rowan McMurray pursued and hauled all but two riders back into a lead pack. This situation remained until the start of the bell lap. Craig Kentwell was well positioned high on the banking entering the bell lap and looked good for a surprise attack. However, the lead bunch anticipated the move and a furious one lap sprint commenced. Steve Jones was the strongest sprinter taking a good win from Wayne Benham and Rowan McMurray in that order.

The 8-lap B grade scratch race began with Graeme O’Neill pulling out of a cleat, fortunately as back marker. The paceline was not disturbed and Graeme re-joined the race after a lap out. Ian Drayton took the initial lead out. The pace increased to a steady tempo after a front turn by Alison Hale. This pace stayed steady until lap 5 when Phil Coulton rolled to the front and upped the pace to a suicidal level. The pace could have shattered the bunch. However, all riders dug deep and managed to hang on until the pace dropped to a more tolerable level. Tony Beasley led out with two laps to go. However, Ian Drayton and James Newhouse were well positioned for a final attack. With one lap to go, Ian Drayton surged past the leaders using the high banking to sling shot him into a fast sprint for the win. James Newhouse pursued hard for second place with Tony Beasley managing to hang on for third.

The evening’s second event was an all-in, 2-lap handicap that concluded the four race Omnium Championship for 20-21. Ben Davis held the championship lead going into this event and needed only to finish in the points to cement his lead. Several other riders were in contention for the Omnium. However, they needed to win with Ben being out of the points to take the championship. The handicap highlight was a great performance by Phil Coulton and Ken Birch. Though these two riders established an early lead, it seemed certain that they would be run down over the two laps. However, they rode on pure guts and were determined to make it as hard as possible for the pursuers. They held their lead to the line and crossed it just ahead of a hard charging bunch with Phil taking first place and Ken taking second ahead of Ian Drayton in third place. Importantly, Ben Davis crossed in fourth place earning two more points to take out the 20-21 Omnium Championship.

The evenings third events were graded snowball points races. These races are like a conventional points races, except that the sprint points awarded escalate (snowball) as the event progresses. The A grade snowball was dominated by Steve Jones who took out the two intermediate sprints and final sprint to gain the maximum (12) points. The final points wash up saw Rowan McMurray with second placing (8 points). Third placing was a tie between Craig Kentwell and John Paul De Sousa (5 points). The B grade race was taken out by Ian Drayton (10 points) with Tony Beasley second (8 points). Three riders (James Newhouse, Alison Hale and Phil Coulton) tied for third place on 4 points.

The track session closed with the usual, all-in, Italian pursuit. This event had teams of 5 riders. Both teams made good starts and rode without error. On paper, Team 2 looked slightly stronger. However, the result was, again, more emphatic than expected. After establishing a small lead in the first half of the race, James Newhouse, John Paul De Sousa and Rowan McMurray powered through the latter section of the race and provided Team 2 with an easy win.

Major place getters for Wednesday were as follows:
8-Lap Scratch: (A Grade) Steve Jones, Wayne Benham, Rowan McMurray. (B Grade) Ian Drayton, James Newhouse, Tony Beasley.
2-Lap Handicap: (A Grade) Phil Coulton, Ken Birch, Ian Drayton.
12-Lap Snowball: (A Grade) Steve Jones (12 points), Rowan McMurray (8 points), Craig Kentwell and John Paul De Sousa (5 points) (B grade) Ian Drayton (10 points), Tony Beasley (8 points), James Newhouse, Alison Hale and Phil Coulton (4 points).
Combined Italian Pursuit: Winner Team 2 (John Paul De Sousa, Rowan McMurray, Tony Beasley, Phil Coulton, James Newhouse).

Final Omnium Championship Points:
Ben Davis (16), Phil Coulton (13), Ken Birch (11), Steve Jones, Phil Anderson (10), Alison Hale, John Paul De Sousa, Tony Beasley (9), Bruce Griffin, James Newhouse (7), Rowan McMurray, Colin Calderwood (6).

Season Point Score Update:
Steve Jones (262), Ian Drayton (249), James Newhouse (235), Phil Anderson (228), John Paul De Sousa (226), Ken Birch (192), Alison Hale (187), Phil Coulton (176), Wayne Benham (168), Tony Beasley (159), Craig Kentwell (148), Bruce Griffin (141), Ben Davis (136).

Graeme O’Neill

Vets Elders Age Standard Time Trial – Tharwa to Apollo Road – 28th February

A beautiful day at Tharwa, light winds, with 18 riders taking on the short but hard 17.65km time trial over Mt Tennant to Apollo Rd and back. The ride took on average about 35 minutes, but there were some tired looking racers at the finish.

In the Women’s Division Linda Stals was 3rd in 39:15, Tania Launder 2nd in 34:50 and handicap and line honours went to Emma Padovan who completed the course in 31:49 or 57 seconds over age standard. Emma’s average speed was 33.3 kph on a hilly course.

In the men Owain Tilley was 3rd in 30:41, David Dickson 2nd in 30:01 and Gerard Tiffen got the line honours and best handicap result with at time of 25:58 which is 3:13 under age standard for Gerard. A nice effort and an average speed of 40.8kph.

Thanks to marshals Henry Thomson and Callum Henshaw who did a great job and made my job easy. Also to Graham Hendrie and Ian McVay who do heaps to keep the races happening.

Steve Schwenke

Hello Vets,

In the Bleat this week;

•  Handlebar, Stromlo (Grease Monkeys)

•  First Aid Courses

•  Canberra Events

•  COVID-19 Restrictions

•  Racing this Week

•  Race Reports

Ian Morton
thebleat@actvets.cc

Handlebar, Stromlo (Grease Monkeys)

Dear Members,

Good evening everyone, unfortunately we were unable to generate enough interest for the Handlebar at Stromlo to be able to open up for us on Tuesday evenings this season.

Thank you to everyone that did express interest, this won’t be the last time we try, maybe next season we’ll be able to secure those numbers!

Seymour,
ACT Vets Cycling Club President

First Aid Courses

Apologies to members who have been having trouble accessing Pedal Power’s eventbrite link for first aid courses in March. The response has been overwhelming, and the renewed dates for courses are all over-subscribed.

If you are still interested in undertaking a first aid course, please contact Pedal Power – communications@pedalpower.org.au, and note you are a Vets’ member. If there are any withdrawals from the courses, there may be an opportunity for you to be a back-up.

As well, Pedal Power are considering reapplying for the ACT Road Safety Grant in 2021, so there may well be additional opportunities in future.

Andy Matz

Canberra Events

The Fathering Project

The Fathering Project – The ‘Big Push’ Charity Ride April 30 2021 Sydney to Canberra

Run over 3 days and covering 280kms, the Big Push is a fun-filled cycling event that brings fathers, father figures (and family members) together with one goal: celebrating their most important role – being a dad. Further details available from the web site https://thefatheringproject.org/event/the-big-push-charity-ride-2020/.

Rotary Rides Canberra – Five Peaks Challenge

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 March: 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 25 min + 2 laps
A/C 6:20 A 35m+2, C 32m+2
B/D 7:10 B 35m+2, D 32m+2

Race Director:  Vincent Dunn Contact: Email: v.dunn@innovativeelectrical.com.au    Ph  0429 220 662

Marshals: Colin Kelley

Wednesday, 3rd March: 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 – 6.40pm: 2-lap handicap (Omnium Event).
6.40pm – 7.10pm: 12-lap snowball.
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, 8th No Scheduled Race – Canberra Day Public Holiday Weekend

RACE REPORTS:

SFP Criterium – 23rd February – Club Championship

M4 and M5, These two divisions started as different races, with good numbers in both. Some crosswind and cool conditions

M4

M4 started with a strong attack from Mark Terracini, Steve Crispin doing most of the chasing, keeping the majority of the bunch in the gutter. A few riders felt the pain of the early pace, Ben Carmody did well being dropped but getting back on the bunch.

As soon as Mark was caught a strong counter went containing James Tonkin, Colin Kelley, Peter Young, Ben Neal, Craig O’Neall and a few others, I was too slow to get their numbers.

Nicholas Stewart did a lot of the chasing, with Steve Crispin contributing strong turns as well. Paul Scherl took advantage of the situation and went off on a solo attack. The counter attacks decimated the bunch with Stewart, Crispin, Vrooms, Tiffen leading the charge.

With 15 minutes to go the race was almost decided, with the front group away. In the end the sprint was won by Gerard Tiffen, second Gillman-Wells followed by Marc Vroomans. Steve Crisping came in fourth, frustrated that all his work had not lead to a medal.

M5

In contrast to the M4 race this race started at pedestrian pace, quite a relief for riders in C grade and below. When the action started it really started with quite a few selections made, only to come back together again.

Major features of the race were long solo attacks by Anthong Dick, who was eventually joined by Christophe Barberet. The break was joined by Steve Blackburn, Conan Liu with Nathan Spillane bridging across. Those who decided not to or could not bridge across missed the break and their race was over.

But, of course there was more to come in the lead group, Christophe attacks, Spillane chases and Conan blows up under the pressure. There was even more to come with an attack from Andrew Chamberlain. All this time we are waiting for the decisive Steve Blackburn attack, but this time it came from Nathan Spillane.

Nathan rode to win solo, down to a chase of three with Steve Blackburn coming in second and Christophe Barberet third. Andrew Chamberlain and Ben Healy did well to stay in the lead group.

M1 and M2 and M3 started as one large bunch

Dale Riley only rider and first in M1.

Al Raitt 1st and Ben Zeller 2nd in M2.

The majority of riders in the bunch came from M3. Like M4 this race started with a strong solo attack from Nick Stewart. Rainer Wilton brought it back together, but the strain was showing at the back of the bunch. The race continued with strong attacks from Nick Stewart, Rainer Wilton and Joel Rahman. Joel was in trouble, off the back, but got back on as the bunch went into a temporary lull.

Joel was to see more action, attacking solo, edging his was up to a 15 second gap over about 8 laps. Again, Stewart and Wilton, obviously the strongest riders took responsibility for the chase.

All this action led to a lead group of three, consisting of Wilton, Brad Peppinck and Andrew Murrell. Al Raitt chases the group of 4, with Peppinck the casualty of the action.

After 5 minutes or so of no action another break went up the road, Wilton and Stewart. Only 5 chasers were left, with not a great deal of cohesion. Rahman, Zeller, Riley, Murrell and Peppinck try their best, but the break has gone.

In M3 Rainer Wilton beats Nicholas Stewart for the win. Bradley Peppinck wins the groups of the chases for 4th. A very entertaining race without the team dynamics on display in M4.

Thanks to:
Adrian Breen who did the difficult job of race positions in the finish chute Lee Hopson for timing the races and taking presentation photos Simon Whitehead for being there as first aid and a foil for Lee Hopson’s jokes.

Congratulations to the winners and also all the riders who had a go and made these races very entertaining. Also for those who were dropped by the A and B graders, very good to see you out there having a go, testing yourself.

Allan Bontjer

Track Racing – 24th February

The evening weather for the season’s 15th track racing session was cool and overcast with rain threatening. The wind was slight at the start of the session and dropped off as racing progressed. Overall, conditions were very good for racing. Attendance held up in B grade with 10 riders. A grade mustered only 4 riders.

The 8-lap, A grade, scratch race started at easy pace with John Paul De Sousa leading out. Steve Jones took a turn on the front for lap 2 and the pace became a steady tempo from there until lap 6 when Ben Davis rolled to the front and cranked things up a bit. The pack held the higher pace with Craig Kentwell making a move up the banking ready to pounce. Craig pounced into lap 7 but the bunch were ready and a long sprint commenced. As the final lap approached Steve Jones and John Paul De Sousa attacked solidly from the bunch and soon had several metres gap on the trailing pair. Steve Jones was the stronger taking a good win from John Paul with Craig Kentwell in third place.

The 8-lap B grade scratch race held a steady pace for 5.5 laps with turns on the front by Ken Birch, Bruce Griffin, Phil Anderson James Newhouse and Ian Drayton. Tony Beasley took over the lead on lap 6 and lifted the pace. A long sprint commenced 1.8 laps from the finish. Tony Beasley held out to take the win followed by James Newhouse and Alison Hale in that order.

The evening’s second event was a series of paired, 2-lap match races with results counting towards the Omnium Championship. The races threw up a variety of tactics with longer sprints being quite common. There appeared to be tactical errors in some of the longer sprints. However, it is often difficult to discriminate a tactical error from a rider simply lacking the final sprint speed to compete. Winners from the paired sprints were Ben Davis, Steve Jones, Tony Beasley, Ian Drayton, Phil Anderson, Bruce Griffin and Colin Calderwood.

The evening’s third event was a 2-lap handicap with A & B grades combined in a single race. The shorter handicaps seem to favour B grade riders, motivated by an equalising handicap. This event was no exception. A grade chased hard but B grade dominated in the results with Phil Anderson taking an excellent win from James Newhouse and Colin Calderwood in that order.

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. On paper Team 2 looked slightly stronger. However, the result was more emphatic than expected. Team 2 powered through the mid-section of the race and progressively built an unbeatable lead. Team 1’s anchor, Ben Davis, put in his usual hard effort. However, Steve Jones, for Team 2, was able to cruise across the line winning by a comfortable quarter lap margin.

Major place getters for Wednesday were as follows:
8-Lap Scratch: (A Grade) Steve Jones, John Paul De Sousa, Craig Kentwell. (B Grade) Tony Beasley, James Newhouse, Alison Hale.
2-Lap Match Races: (A Grade) Ben Davis d Craig Kentwell, Steve Jones d John Paul De Sousa. (B Grade) Ian Drayton d James Newhouse, Tony Beasley d Ken Birch, Phil Anderson d Phil Coulton, Bruce Griffin d Alison Hale, Colin Calderwood d Graeme O’Neill.
2-Lap Handicap: (A&B Combined) Phil Anderson, James Newhouse, Colin Calderwood.
Combined Italian Pursuit: Winner Team 2 (Steve Jones, Craig Kentwell, Ken Birch, Ian Drayton, Phil Coulton, Bruce Griffin Alison Hale).

Omnium Championship Points:
Ben Davis (14), Steve Jones, Phil Anderson (10), Alison Hale, John Paul De Sousa (9), Phil Coulton, (8), Ken Birch, Bruce Griffin, James Newhouse (7), Rowan McMurray (6), Ian Drayton, Colin Calderwood (5).

Season Point Score Update:
Steve Jones (247), Ian Drayton (231), Phil Anderson (218), James Newhouse (218), John Paul De Sousa (212), Ken Birch (183), Alison Hale (177), Phil Coulton (160), Wayne Benham (156), Tony Beasley (142), Bruce Griffin (136), Craig Kentwell (135), Ben Davis (128).

Graeme O’Neill