Eastern and South Eastern Regional Cyclocross Championships

Sun 06 Dec 2015

Eastern and South Eastern Regional Cyclocross Championships

A stern test for man, knee and machine in gooey mud

The Eastern and South Eastern Regional CX champs were held at Hog Hill and attracted a large field of riders in all categories including four North Roaders. A CX challenge always awaits at Redbridge. Plenty of climbing is generally required and as the season progresses, and the weather worsens, the combined mixture of gooey mud with grass and gravel sized stones makes for a bike clogging mix. With four winter storms in as many weeks it was always going to be a difficult race.

The four North Roaders, Steve James, John McDowall, Bryan Holland and Michael Atkinson where spread across three categories - Vets +50, vet 40-49, and the Senior race (respectively) 
Steve was back in action after an extended lay off for knee problems.  An all clear from the doctor meant a stern test for man, knee and machine in what would not have been a nice return to the bitter and twisted CX fold.  A fall for John early on a road section was not a good start and he generally struggled a little but got round on a very difficult day.  Bryan was going better seemingly revelling in the difficult conditions.  Michael perhaps faced the sternest test having to race for an hour on one machine when bike changes would have been a real help.
Steve (Vet +50)came home in 43rd with 78 starters and nine DNFs
Bryan was a very respectable 18th, John a more subdued 35th with 64 starters and nine DNFs (Vets 40-49)
Michael (Seniors) was 34th with 64 starters and 6 DNFs