Eastern CX League 9 - Mistly
Sun 16 Oct 2016
A trip down to what is probably the most technically demanding course on the ECXL circuit. Plunging descents, some stiff climbing and a plentiful array of single track all set in the bounds of ye olde forest. Some tweaks to the course made for a more flowing race than in previous years but it was still a stern test for man, machine and cahoonas.
Just two North Roaders, John McDowall and Bryan Holland, raced in their respective categories of Vets +50 and Vets 40-49
A solid low error race from John although he lost valuable position in the hurly-burley of the sprint into a pinch point that was a key decider of early position into the 'difficult to overtake' forest. Bryan’s race was marred by a chain drop and a large crash of riders at the same important point. From then on he was playing catch up although he still posted some very strong laps.
Bryan Holland was 29th at +7.09 down on Shaun Aldous of Renvale RT, who won the race by completing seven laps in 44.12. 75 starters with one DNF
John McDowall came home in 15th at +4.11 off the winner, Jimmy Piper of Iceni Velo, who managed six laps in 39.22. 76 starters with three DNFs