Jamie Anderson wins at Hog Hill !

Hog Hill Winter Series 5 - Sat 10th Jan 2008

Despite a bitterly cold morning, three North Roaders took part in the 5th day of racing at the Hog Hill Winter Series. First up was Jamie in the 4th Cat race that contained a slightly reduced field, the weather no doubt a factor. Despite a very slow initial lap, it became clear that the assembled group had come to race, and although the pace was variable, there were several early attempted breaks. The headwind allowed for very fast descents but meant gaining a significant break on the hill was difficult, allowing a larger than usual group to form at the head of the race.

With three laps to go an alliance was formed at the front of the bunch, and agreed to attack on the climb to try and pull away. This break was ultimately unsuccessful, but did weaken the group and forced the leading riders to show their hands. The last lap felt unusually fast, and on the approach to the final climb Jamie's partner in crime in the earlier failed break made his move. Jamie sat on his back wheel for a few meters waiting to see if any others were preparing to attack, but soon decided to simply go himself. The previous attacks and the headwind allowed Jamie to steel a few metres on the main group and claim his debut victory. After two second places, it was a considerable relief to finally get the win.

Ian and Jon contested the 3rd / 4th Cat event in a larger field of riders. Watching from the café and nursing a warming cup of coffee, it was possible to see a similar pattern to the previous race emerging with a large front group and breaks few and far between. A very brave solo break early in the race was chased down by the bunch in which Ian and Jon were both significant players. The race was punctuated by a steward's car appearing twice to mop up minor accidents during the race, and it was clear that the leaders were very tightly grouped, making it hard to force a way through. However, it was a race that was capturing the attention of the crowd, still significant despite the cold. The final lap bunch sprint emptied the café, and the race went right down to the line. Jon finished extremely strongly in third and Ian, slightly more boxed in, finished a very creditable ninth (despite saying to Jamie prior to his race that he wouldn't take part because a morning of salting and gritting the track had left him exhausted).

Another great days racing, with credit going to the organizers and of course Ian and his team for ensuring the race could take place in less than ideal conditions.

Full results from LCS website here