Mark Herriot; more usually seen out on a mountain bike, only purchased a road bike in January and in his first ever race broke the magical 30 minute barrier finishing in 29mins 56secs, exactly the same time as other newcomer Mike Dunsby.
New club member Richard Harrington; another who has only recently acquired a road bike clocked 33mins 44secs whilst existing club members Chris Hough and Nigel Skyrme who both have been taking part in the club winter training programme but have not previously raced, clocked 29mins 36secs and 28mins 44secs respectively.
Amongst the more experienced riders, many of whom have put in significant training miles over the winter months, the question all were asking was how fast could Will Bevan go on his first club outing this year.
Will has invested in some new impressive 'bike bling' giving his machine a somewhat bizarre appearance. Along with advanced eyewear, race tested for improved performance, what could possibly go wrong in the quest for a flying start to the season? Unfortunately Will only made it a third of the way along the course before puncturing, possibly weighed down by too much new technology or expectation.
Will's misfortune led to the honours of the day going to club stalwart Paul Fallon, winning the first race of the season in 24mins 39secs whilst son, Matt Fallon, clocked a new personal best of 28mins 45secs. Ross riders Graham Carter in second place, Paul Stephens third and Mark Lavington in fifth finished within a minute of one another and have set up what will be a fascinating three way battle over the coming weeks and months.
The club welcomes new riders who want to come and give cycling a go either competitively or socially and invites anyone interested to join us for a drink Thursday evenings from 8.30pm onwards at Ross Rowing Club.
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