Saturday 2nd June saw a number of club members try their hand at road race racing for the first time. The race was hosted by Dromara Cycling Club on the Bishopscourt racing circuit.
Ted Ellison and Marcus Chesney were up first in the Masters race – 10 laps of the 2 mile circuit. The smooth surface and lack of wind meant that any attempts at a break away were quickly chased down.
Unfortunately for big Ted he touched wheels and came off in the 3rd lap and had to retire. Luckily for Ted he only suffered minor cuts and bruises although sadly the Crossgar jersey is now only fit for the bin.
Marcus fared much better in what was his first race in some 14 years and finished just outside the top 10 with an average speed over 24 mph – a job well done!!
Kieran, Gary and Paul were up next in the A4 Ronnie Smyth Cup over 15 laps. This race followed the same pattern as the Masters race and really came down the last lap and the sprint home after the last turn. All three rode strongly and stayed out of trouble.
Kieran was first Crossgar rider over the line in 10th place closely followed by Gary in 12th with Paul only 2 seconds later.
The race proved to be a great experience for the guys new to racing and it was great to see Crossgar jerseys mixing it up with the other clubs. Many thanks to the host club Dromara for their hospitality, for looking after Ted after his crash and
for putting on a great race…
Photos courtesy of Sharon McFarland
Crossgar Cycling Club 