Girl power dominates road race

Round five of the Mount Gambier Cycling Club Brew Coffee Bar Series saw riders venture to the straight, flat section of road outside Tarpeena for a 25km race.

Some riders were still away on State duties, but 15 starters were present for the commissaire.

First away were Jen Buckland, Martin Farmilo and junior Molly Opperman.

Six minutes later, Spek Peake, Michael Dethmore and Sandra Parsons were sent off and three minutes later, the group of Ethan McKenny, Xavier Farmilo, Chris Neave, Sarah Dally and John Cranwell were dispatched.

Craig Andrae and Tim Koopman left three minutes after this group and then the scratch riders of Nick Kidman and Scott Waters were let go after giving another three minutes away.

A slight cross tail wind assisted the riders on the outward journey, but with the exuberance of youth, the large group of five riders splintered, with John being tailed off and having to time trial to the turn.

Martin was distanced from the front group and Michael lost contact with his riders after the turn, so there were many smaller groups of ones and twos dotted over the road.

After the turn at 12.5kms, riders faced a cross headwind which caused more trouble for the single riders.

Scratch was picking these riders up and leaving them behind due to their high pace and only Tim was able to stay with them after the turn, where Craig was distanced from the group.

In the run to the finish, youth prevailed with Molly outlasting Jen, followed by Spek and Sandra.

Sarah was too strong for Xavier who was chased home by Nick, who registered fastest time and finished in front of Ethan and Scott.

Tim, Chris, Michael, Craig, John and Martin finished a bit behind the other riders to be greeted by Tina, the commissaire in charge and supporters.

Riders and supporters returned to Brew Coffee Bar for refreshments after the race.

Round six of the series will see riders face the lumps and bumps through Dry Creek to Donovans on Sunday, March 10.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE MCKENNY