With a huge year ahead for the Club, the first round of Club racing came around quick for all. The temps were up and the start list was pumping with 110 riders for Cross country and Downhill with 30 riders.
With the hype about the upcoming nationals in March, riders were keen to check out the trails and search for any intel as to what the course would be like. After a rider briefing the race start took place and the heat could be felt immediately as riders headed up past the timing area onto the course. Exciting to ride was some brand new trail, the ‘new start loop’, with flowing corners and a great connection into the development track. Lap 2 was heating up with temperatures well into the high 30’s, riders had to stay hydrated and recover when possible.
A Grade men was taken out by the current CX national Champ and also CX rider of the year, Chris Aitken. A Grade women’s was won by visiting rider and upcoming star U/17 rider Caitlyn Brazier. B Grade was won by Paul Verkuylen and Ellissia Valenta. C Grade by John Henry and Amaya Shaw. D Grade won by Jett Jordan and Sylvia Dagg. Under 15’s had a great race with Link Turnbull taking the win. Bailey Thomas and Emma Stevenson took out the E-Bike class.
With such a great turnout for the 1st race of the year, the future looks promising for the growth of the sport and club.
Special mention to the 22 women who raced, the growing number every race is testament to the clubs welcoming committee and members. Particular thanks to Dean and Dallas for setting the track, Laura for doing the majority of this report and Alex who gives up his chance to race to ensure the timing and results all work.
Remember the upcoming build days on the 28th of January and then each Sunday in February prepping for the National round in March. – the club needs your help.
The next Cross Country Round is 25/2/2024.
Just a reminder that for future race events we will be continuing to ask for proof of your AusCycling License currency for insurance purposes when you are registering on the day.
