It was a good night for the Scots at Carlisle Cycle Circuit on Thursday with strong showings for visitors from across the border in all age groups.
The Stewart brothers of Castle Douglas performed to their usual high standard with Mitchell, Cobey and Josh all taking the wins in their age groups.
The Scottish girls were not to be outdone, with Izzy Barbour of SteppingStanes Youth Cycling Club winning the under-12 girls race and Kasey Park of Edinburgh on the top step of the podium in the under-14 girls.
Ewan McGrath of Frizington managed to break the Scottish dominance with a convincing win in the under-14 boys but the Under-16 boys podium was again topped by a Scot, this time East Kilbride Road Club rider Colin McGourty who put in a very strong ride.
Following on from the youth racing, the category 3 and 4 adult riders took to the circuit for a fast-paced battle.
Again a strong Scottish contingent were ever present at the front of the race but there were some excellent performances from local riders too, notably Matt Atkinson of Beacon Wheelers and Border City Wheelers rider Bryan Pool whose skill and experience was evident.
But in the end it was a Scottish 1-2 with Harry Johnston of Helensburgh holding off the in-form Oliver Newton for the win. Dearham youngster Jude Davison completed the podium and the 7 British Cycling ranking points he gained moves him up into Category 2.
Whilst there was great action on the track, the night’s real hero wasn’t riding his bike this week.
Rock to Roll Cycling Club’s Craig Turney saved the day when he heard that one of the Youth riders from the North East had left a vital piece of equipment at home and was in danger of missing his race.
Craig dashed straight over to the circuit with a spare part from one of his own bikes, arriving just minutes before the youngster, who eventually finished third, was due to start.
Next week the Youth riders get a rest, and the spotlight will be on riders at the other end of the age range, as the evening begins with a Veterans race, including competition for over-40s, over-50s and over-60s.
