A busy weekend saw Armidale riders participating a couple of vastly different events, both of which are worthy of a report!

First up was Dave Munday who made the long journey to the National Master Championships in East Gippsland, Victoria. Racing in Masters 5 on Friday, Dave was up against a strong field of 51 riders. The strength of the field was highlighted by the race concluding with a 30 strong peleton (pictured above) sprinting into the finale, and a tremendous effort from Dave saw him take 10th place at the line, a fantastic result! See the full results here.

A more sedate field of 40+ riders lined up for the Walcha Road Ride challenge as part of the Walcha Mountain Festival, with large contingents from both the Armidale and Tamworth cycling clubs supporting this great local event. A relaxed rollout saw some convivial riding, but as the group rolled through Kentucky and made the turn for Walcha Road the pace slowly ramped up. By the time the lead riders hit the climb out of Walcha Road, the group had been reduced to around 15, and some hard climbing had whittled this down to just 4 riders for the run to home. And at the line Armidale riders came home with a 1-2-3, with Paul Williams first across the line closely followed by Jason Simmonds and Andrew Swann. All Armidale riders completed the route, so well done to all who participated.

An interesting footnote to the main ride saw a breakaway of 5 riders extending there days ride by making a detour for some post race refreshments at the Uralla brewery. Details are sketchy, but it was generally judged that a large intake of post-race fluids & pizza eased the aches and pains of the day, although it was noted that none of those present were capable of the usual Sunday 7am ride the next day!

We’re back to club racing this Saturday with the Club Time Trial Championship on Dangarsleigh.