The second race of the Cycle Centre 2008/09 winter series was held in very wet, very cold and very muddy conditions at Hamel’s land in Grouville.

With a slightly reduced field of riders, due to the adverse weather, the very heavy conditions were going to be a battle of both fitness and equipment. A variety of ploughed farms tracks, hedge drops and small woodland sections kept all riders on their toes from start to finish.

The small elite class was led from the start by Robin Ovenden but chased strongly for the first lap by a mix of other elite, sport and verteran riders. Ian Le Lai showing improving fitness to just take 2nd place with Adam Wojtkiewicz holding on for 3rd.

The vets class saw a personal best from Erik Le Brun who until the very last lap was set for 2nd place overall but, after a fall in the wooded section, was just overhauled by elite rider Ian Le Lai and had to settle for 3rd overall but 1st in the vets class. 2nd place was another strong ride by Simon Stead with Colin Malzard not too far behind in 3rd.

The sports class was won with a solid ride by Lee Wells who was fourth overall with Alastair Cann taking 2nd and Pawel Rejak finishing 3rd.

The ladies class was a solo affair with newcomer Louise Banks showing true grit and determination to finish in such harsh conditions.

George Milner rode a controlled race to take the schoolboy class from Sam Coutanche in 2nd and Matthew Nerac in 3rd.

The next race will be on Sunday 18th January at Val de la Mare, St. Ouen.
Please watch the club site for further course cutting and race venue updates.
Please see the club website (www.ccc.je) for further information.

Thanks to Robin Ovenden and Colin Hidrio for organising this event