Rob Curtis Memorial Handicap

AFTER a few wet days that provided more rain than any cropping farmer would like in the middle of harvest, race day arrived fine and dry but windy. A small field of dedicated riders braved the weather and signed on to race. Di Condie and Micala Jacobs were first off the line, Di proving to be too strong for Micala and quickly riding away from her. A brave move to be leading the race by yourself that early on. Dave Jagger and Dave Bock were next in an awkward position - seven minutes to the pair in front and an equal distance to the bunch behind. This is a decent gap considering the wind. They were followed by Jason Parker, Adrian Dowd, Oliver Hall and Simon Hall. Oliver struggled to keep up in this bunch but they worked well together and looked after Oliver for as long as they could. With some late scratchings, the handicapper's job was difficult for the back markers. Dave Jagger and Dave Bock were the next bunch. Ryder Chadd was pulled from this bunch to keep Andy Garret company at the back of the race. The plan here was that Ryder would help Andy to get up the hill to the turn around, but the flats beforehand proved too hard for Ryder and he struggled to keep up. With a great ride, Darren Bakker and Damian Grundy breezed past the bunch in front on the climb. Only Adrian and Simon managed to grab a wheel and keep going with them. The rest of the climb and the return to Mansfied proving to be fast with this new bunch managing to chase down all riders in front. After a sterling ride by herself, Di was unfortunately caught on the approach to the finish. A close bunch finish saw Simon just in front of Damian and Darren. Everyone else was close behind. Di after a long ride by herself was just able to stay in front of Andy at the finish. Bike racing is a lot of fun and my appreciation goes to the volunteers who help out each week to make it all possible.

Rob Curtis Memorial Handicap

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