01/11/2014
By Jayman Prestidge
Twenty six cyclists raced in hot conditions at Shady Creek on Saturday in the third ‘Come and Try’ event of the Spring/Summer Road Racing Series.
Kerryn Milners victory in the Women’s race was the highlight of the days racing and her first victory. She has clearly caught the bug of cycle racing and is steadily improving both her riding skills and fitness level. The women’s race also included three others including Robyn Baker in second position and Pam Benstead and Linda Tubnor. Each of these women have only started in racing recent times and we look forward to seeing more women give racing a try.
The men’s C Grade race was won with a clear breakaway victory by Brett Kennedy. Brett is another new member who has caught the bug of cycle racing and his victory has seen him relegated to have a go at B Grade for his next race. Rob Waddell finished in second place with Michael Blackwood rolling in for third.
The mens B Grade race was largely uneventful until the last ascent up Shady Creek Hill. Roland Eldstrom broke away at speed mid-way up the hill. Jayman Prestidge paced the chasing peloton up the balance of the climb to ensure Roland’s break was limited. After catching Roland on the flats the race ended with a straight up sprint. Jayman Prestidge was the clear winner from Geoff Thomson in second place and a strong Neil Edwards in third place.
The men’s A Grade race only say a small field of five, and once Joe ‘Bling’ Patrick pulled out of the race the opportunity for lower ranked riders to take an A Grade victory was on offer. Leigh Hauxwell attacked strongly on the last climb up Shady Creek and would not be caught again. He rode to a clear victory. Rob Monk was once again consistent, and took second place in A Grade which is a great effort for someone that has to work hard for his cycling achievements. George Tambassis finished strongly for third place.
Finally, our Junior Race saw Macca Parkinson and Charlotte Benstead braved the hot conditions and put in a fine effort out on the road.
