Matt makes his mark in muddy conditions

CYCLING DEREK SCHOFIELD FOLLOWING heavy rain towards the end of last week, Rossendale Road Club riders faced a very muddy and tough course on Saturday at the latest round of the NW CX series at Otterspool, Liverpool.

The youth race came first and Matt Toman showed his advance this year with a fine 10th place overall from the 38 starters.

Kate Taylor also had a great result in 22nd overall but, more importantly, second girl U16, just 13 seconds behind the series leader, high flyer Olivia Ingham of Pedalsport. Elise Haygarth continued to fight above her age, finishing third girl in the U10s event.

In the combined vets/ women Dave Haygarth of Helmshore, riding for the Planet X team, more or less sealed the series championship with a solid third place, Mick Taylor having a fine ride after a mid-season break in 43rd place, with Derek Schofield in 48th and third V60 just under a minute further back.

Adrian Watts and Graham Wright completed the Rossendale valley team.

The series continues on Sunday at Staedt Moor, St Helens before the Xmas break.

In the evening, the valley club celebrated the 2016 time trial season with their annual dinner and awards presentation event at the Sykeside Hotel.

It was Paul Warrener who took the major trophies, with great wins across both flat courses and the tougher Spoco series events.

Adrian Watts was voted by members as Clubman of the Year for the work he has done in timekeeping and organisation of various events. ●● Matt Toman in action at Otterspool at the weekend