St Ives CC were represented by two Go-Riders at today’s Ashwell promotion. Lotty signed up for the U12 races and Ryan for the U16 races.
As I loaded the bikes onto the car at home, the temperature was down at -3°C and didn’t seem to rise very much for the rest of the morning. Despite the temperature, approximately 40 riders signed on for the races which were run off in crisp clear conditions with no wind – perfect for riding, freezing for watching!
First race was the U12 scratch race. With a wide range of ages and abilities, the field soon spread out. A twisty course with off-camber turns, a dismount section and a long draggy climb sapped the energy but there were plenty of smiles from the riders and plenty of encouragement from the spectators. Lotty kept a a steady pace going and, after a tentative start, gradually moved through the field to take 1st place in the girls race after three laps.
In the U16 scratch race Ryan, on a very smart borrowed Go-Ride cyclo-cross bike, found the going tough and decided to save himself for the second race after completing the first lap. Having seen the size and pace of the boy who won, I don’t blame him!
Third race was the U12 handicap race. Winning the first race meant that Lotty was gridded in the scratch group and quickly found herself chasing hard at the back of the field. Showing some good stamina she worked her way through the riders who started ahead to finish mid-field by the end of the race.
Final race of the day was the U16 scratch race which Ryan started strongly and kept going throughout, also to finish in the middle of the field. An excellent effort and a good platform to work from in the next race.
The racing was well organised, very friendly and well worth travelling down the A1 for. The obligatory water bottles were handed out to all finishers and certificates given to the three top riders in each race. If you fancy having a go at riding similar races, St Ives’ Go-Ride sessions are the place to start. The next session is on Sat 21st Jan at Hinchingbrooke Park. Contact Mike or James for more info.
