The warmer weather provided ideal racing conditions at Carlisle Cycle Circuit last night and the riders took full advantage of the lack of wind to produce two fast exciting races.
The first race for category 3 and 4 riders had attracted a varied field ranging from very experienced category 3 racers to newcomers starting their first ever race.
The standard was good across the board with a number of riders achieving their best placings so far this season.
There were some strong early attacks in the race but unfortunately some disruption due to an unauthorised person on the circuit led to a slowing of the pace and the bunch came together again.
This did lead to an exciting finish, however, with Liam White of Torvelo Racing taking the win.
The Ribble rchg Race Team duo of Max Lutz-Atkinson and Daniel Saba had ridden very strongly throughout the race and finished 2nd and 4th respectively, with last week’s winner Cormac McConville splitting the two teammates to snatch third place in a very close finish.
The second race of the night boasted a high-quality field from Scotland, the north east and Lancashire as well as local riders, including a number of 1st category riders.
Much of the race saw Penrith’s Tom Roper, riding for team INFLITE, out front alone, but he was gradually reeled back in by a strong chasing bunch including Lloyd Wise of Sweden Racing Academy and Ayr’s Oliver Newton.
Roper attacked again with around 300m to go but couldn’t get clear of his pursuers and in the end it was experience that got the better of youth with veteran Beacon Wheelers rider and CCA Chairman Neil Withington adding another win in what is proving a very good season for him.
Many of the races so far have been dominated by Scottish visitors but this time the locals went well with three Cumbrians in the top four.
Category 1 rider Alexander Macrae of Glasgow prevented a fully Cumbrian podium by crossing the line second but a fast finishing Jude Davison of Dearham edged out his near neighbour Lloyd Wise for third.
The first Cat 3 rider home was Max Lutz- Atkinson whose 6th place was particularly impressive given his efforts in Race 1.
Riders and spectators alike enjoyed a great evening of highly competitive yet good natured and friendly racing. Next week’s event begins with races for youth riders from under 8 to under 16, followed by an adult race.
