Carlisle Cycling Association’s summer evening series got off to a great start on Thursday, with 45 riders ranging from Under-8s to adults taking part in breezy but sunny weather conditions.
The youngest riders started proceedings off, with the Under-8s and Under-10s competing in two short races, a single lap time trial against the clock followed by a bunch race.
As was often the case last year, visitors from north of the border impressed, with Mitch Stewart, Isla Faichen and Zoe Martin all claiming the top spot on the podium in their races, but there were some gutsy riders from local youngsters too including a win in the Under-8 boys’ race from Oliver Nichol.
The Under-12s, Under-14s and Under-16s raced next with the older Stewart brothers, Corey and Josh both winning their age groups and Zach Stobbs visiting from the North East victorious in the Under-16 boys race.
The Under-16 girls race was dominated by Edinburgh Road Club’s Izzy Barbour but the second and third places went to local riders, with Sophie Smith Jackson from Cockermouth getting the better of a determined Hannah Winkley of Carlisle.
Once the youngsters had finished we saw a strong field of Category 3 and 4 adults battle it out in increasingly chilly conditions.
There was fierce competition between a good mix of local riders and visitors from Scotland, the North East and the Isle of Man.
First place and 10 British Cycling ranking points went to the young Manx rider James Kinrade who was pursued to the line by a fast finishing Ryan Johnston of Wolf Cycles.
The final spot on the podium was taken by Penrith teenager Alex Hodgson, making a very strong start to his first season in the adult races. First female rider home was Carlisle’s Liv Bent.
The Association is keen to encourage more local cyclists to give racing a go and newcomers are always welcome.
Next Thursday’s programme includes a race for Category 4 riders only which is particularly suitable for adults new to racing, and the next children’s races are on Thursday May 8.
Email carlislecyclingassoc@yahoo.com or follow the association on Facebook for more information.
