Close Racing Order of the Day
Hot weather and good fields were the order of the day in Tinwald Cycling Clubs, Drummond and Etheridge : Laser Electrical, 48km graded scratch race around the Wakanui Beach block on Sunday.
Alex Hooper fresh from the NZ Track Cycling Championships had the final say in "A" grade to take victory in a sprint finish having bridged across to the break away pair of Nathan Tew and Daryl Kircher. Christchurch riders Stu Lowe, Simon Earl, and Jaron Stephens rounded out the top six.
Paul Macfie showed real strength to hold the front to secure "B" grade honours in a tight finish. Simon White stormed into second place with Rachel Thow right on his tail in third.
Junior rider, Bailey O'Donnell continued his progression in the sport with a top shelf ride in "B" grade.
Marty Cuttle was made to work for his victory in a tough finish with a four man break away. Dean Longhurst continued his good form to secure second place with Doug Lowry taking the final podium position. Dave Knight was in the thick of the finish to take fourth place.
"D" grade spoils were lifted by Roger Wilson having shown a clean set of heels in the charge to the line. Pam Harcourt pulled out another top ride to take second place with Janis Crawford and John Harcourt filling the next two spots.
The junior and Division 2 raced over 16km.
A great field of juniors went to the starting line, the majority of whom had had a successful Waitangi Day competing at the Mid-South Canterbury Centre Track Cycling Champs.
Caitlin Titheridge held on gamely to take the victory. Scratch rider Abe O'Donnell charged through the field to take second place and fastest time honours riding the course in 27.50. Ethan Titheridge made it a good day for the family holding onto third position. Matt Clough, Bella Roulston, and James Skinner rounded out the top six.
Janette Hooper had the final say in Division 2 edging out Brian Ellis in a tight finish. Gary Weston secured third and fastest time honours with Drew Titheridge right on his tail.
The Club travels to Terrace Downs next Sunday to contest a 48km handicap event.