Corley - 3rd April 2016
Sunday 3rd saw the first NCRA Scratch RR of the season. Overnight rain left the circuit damp for warm up and the start of the race. In attendance were Simon R, David’s H & P, Tom D, Matt VB and Wayne T, notable absence being Gary, Tim and Dan B all struck down with near fatal man flu the previous week.
The neutralised start rolled off from the excellent sports facility at 9am, and once the flag dropped the first few laps were reasonably combative, as various attacks were launched and nullified. The circuit to those who don’t know it was only around 3.5km and with an elevation per lap gain of 109 meters the 18 laps were to prove energy sapping, and a true test of the winter training undertaken by us all.
Come mid-distance, Simon signalled and attacked, and as Wayne and Dave H tried their best to control the bunch, it looked like the break may stick. Alert to the threat thoug,h the break was quickly reeled in by other riders and as soon as we were back as a bunch, Wayne countered again, this was also chased down as the bunch swept into the flat out fast left at the bottom of the hill. About another half lap and another attack was launched this time, a little slow to react it was David H’s turn to chase down, he made it over just in time to the break for the start of the climb and the doors promptly “blew off”, unable to hold returned to the bunch (moaning, whining and suffering for some laps later).
As the race drew on the attrition rate increased and the race took its toll with more than a few dnf’s. The break now established was never seen again, and as the jostling for minor places took place in the bunch, the slightly downhill sprint saw Simon draft Tom perfectly and accelerate for a 10th place leaving Tom in 12th, with the rest of the team finishing in the now much depleted bunch.
Post-race debrief was realistic and we can see large opportunities where we can improve, which we are confidentthat we will. Looking forward to Next Sunday the SNCC Handicap, if you can come along and help or support….please do. A bit of moral support goes a looooonnnnnggggg way when your legs are killing you!
David Hennessy