On Sat 30th November St Ives CC organised their annual cyclocross race in association with the Eastern Cyclocross League. Round 11 of the series.
Fortunately the wind and rain left us alone all day, with spectators, helpers and riders alike being treated to a wonderful winter day bathed in sunshine. Temperatures were down but this did not spoil the fun. All events were run successfully with only a couple of minor spills – all part and parcel of the fun of cyclocross. The beach sections, dismount ditch and tree lined corridor were particular liked with the course stretching all the way from the Anglian Water cafe to the woods at the back of the Grafham Cycling shop. An estimated 3km in length.
Winners included Mark Cotton with a decisive victory in the Senior Open event. Local hero Greg Simcock notched 4th place in the Elite veteran category (10th in the actual Open event) against stiff opposition. St Ives CC’s own Phil Peacock had a great ride too in a full field of 80 riders for the last event of the day. Dave Mcullan won the veteran race for over 50s and Dougal Toms from Iceni Velo won the Youth event. Of our younger riders competing for St Ives in their home cross event ALL did brilliantly as they were cheered around the course. Notably Holly Hoy, Samantha Harding, Cici Hime, Sophie Saberton, Daniel Clough, Lotti Knight, Harriet Wylde, Rhys Burton and Sapphire Curtis.
Special mention must go to all club members who helped organise the event.
Thank you VERY much for all of your help on Saturday to make the event another huge success. Special thanks to Rory Havis for being “ALL IN” for both days. Having the confidence to allow folks to simply get on with it is great as an event organiser. As ever Mike Hoy (awesome hurdles he made) and James Bamford were great role models and went that extra mile. Thanks to Phil Peacock for setting out the course with me and to everyone who stayed on to collect the hundreds of stakes that marked out the course. Also thanks to Kelly, Michael and Donna for the signing on duties and the Coopers for marshalling the far reaches of Grafham.
I had a number of thank you messages for a great event from the Senior/Elite riders and assorted others. Without such great help from the club members these types of events and activities would not be possible or as successful. Sorry that I haven’t mentioned everyone but you are all important. I am sure we will have inspired a few more youngsters.
During the day we had great weather, great racing and great fun (I know I did, amongst the legging it around everywhere like a headless chicken 🙂 There were full fields in almost every category totaling approx 280 riders. In fact, we were turning riders away. What a great advert for the club and cycling in general. Great job everyone.
Have a great Christmas and thanks again.
Lee
