Thank goodness for the southerly……….
A warm Sunday morning dawned and eleven keen cyclists lined up for the 'Farewell to 2010' 25km Individual Road Race around the Deepdale circuit. The heat from the road was felt by all and it was probably the first time ever that cyclists almost welcomed the southerly, albeit only for its cooling efforts!The pace was on from the start with the lead group of Paul Dodson, Paul Matthews, Reg Salmon, Paul Baldock, Eddie Muller and Mark Greene combining well to ensure good speed was maintained. Julie Firth was just a few bike lengths behind after the first lap, followed by Donna Meneguzzo in her first ride with Spokes, Jennie Haste, Barb Glenister and fellow newcomer Paul O'Mara.
The teamwork of the lead group took its toll on Reg Salmon into the second lap who was unable to remain in touch with the pack, dropping off to ride a few seconds behind. Dodson, Matthews, Baldock, Greene and Muller continued with their turns and by the fourth lap they had started to set their sights on picking up some of the individual riders who were struggling in the breeze on their own.
Donna Meneguzzo rode consistently throughout each lap , with only a slight variation in time for each 5km circuit. Paul O'Mara improved as the ride progressed and was able to overtake Barb Glenister in the fourth lap of the event.
Julie Firth had been confused at the start of the ride about how many laps she needed to complete (Jules had thought it was a handicap start 15km race rather than the 25km group start event!) and so seemed pretty happy to receive the bell going into the last lap.
The lead group reigned in Barb Glenister and Paul O'Mara and continued working all the way to the finish line. Paul Baldock tried for a very early lead out, attacking the group with 1500 metres to go. Baldock couldn't maintain the pace and was soon picked up again by Dodson, Matthews, Greene and Muller. Matthews, Greene and Dodson then started to inject further speed and effort about 300 metres from the finish and with just a few metres to go, Dodson was able to out sprint Matthews to take line honours. Greene was next across the line followed by Muller and Baldock. Dodson once again showed his experience and strength and it appears he is unbeatable on this course. Eddie Muller has had a stellar year having only joined Spokes in 2010 and improving consistently to now ride at scratch pace.
Reg Salmon finished some four minutes after the lead group and was followed in by Julie Firth, Donna Meneguzzo, Jennie Haste, Paul O'Mara and Barb Glenister. Spokes Cycle Club would like to welcome Donna Meneguzzo and Paul O'Mara to the Club - both rode very well in their first ride with us.
The event was followed by a try on of sample sizes for the Spokes Cycle Club jersey and knicks - remember if you wish to order these items then you will need to contact the Club as soon as possible.
Special thanks to Barb Glenister for putting out and collecting the signs, Deb Greene for marshalling, Paul Baldock and Roger Swan for assisting Barb in collecting the signs. The picasa photostream on the right has been updated with pictures of the event courtesy of Roger at blackswanphotos.com
Spokes Cycle Club would like to take this opportunity to wish you, and your family, a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.
We look forward to seeing you in 2011.
