RRC riders back in saddle at last
AFTER the enforced shut-down, cycle racing in the UK finally got the go-ahead this week. In accordance with government guidelines and Cycling Time Trials consent, Rossendale Road club opened the summer season in the North West with the annual Whalley – Settle 20 mile event on Tuesday evening.
The event clearly attracted a number of top riders, including Nickie Juniper who represented GB in the 2019 world championships, but it was valley club members who dominated the podium with Patrick Hickey taking the win and Mark Berry in third.
Hickey’s time of 44:18 min may well prove to be a course record, but is awaiting verification.
Next local rider, better known for his triathlon results, was Steve Gregory in 10th in a time of 49:35 with Tony Bowler 12th (50:25) closely followed by Carl Moore 13th (50:54).
Evergreen Roy Flanagan finished 50 secs in front of his long time club rival Paul Warrener and just 7 secs separated Dan Reader and Richie Watts in 18th and 19th places.
Young Maisy Vasic of Helmshore had an encouraging first time ride on this tough course in 55:39, with Julian Monk in 23rd place with 55:47.
This was a tremendous showing for the valley club in the first event of the summer TT season and bodes well for a full season in 2021.
The 2020 Harry Law series continues next Tuesday with a 10 mile event at Hapton and all are welcome with sign on at Bentley Wood Way from 6:30pm, racing starts at 7pm.
Riders are reminded to bring their own pens for signing on, have the correct money (£3) and to have rear red lights fitted.