Racing resumed at Carlisle Cycle Circuit this week after a half term break and despite the changeable weather both races attracted good fields.
The first race of the evening was for Category 4 male riders and women of any category and the riders ranged from several racing for the very first time to experienced competitors.
A good sized group contested the final sprint which was won by Joel Housego of the Rapha Cycling Club who earned enough British Cycling ranking points to gain his 3rd Category licence.
Second overall and first woman was Luch Glover of Hexham and the podium was completed by Gareth Palliser of Carlisle Reivers Cycling Club who impressed in his first race.
The second race of the night for 2nd, 3rd and 4th Category riders attracted a strong field of local riders and visitors.
Dearham’s Jude Davison animated the race with an early attack went on to become part of a strong breakaway group of 4 riders who built up an increasingly convincing lead over the main bunch.
In the final lap Muckle CC rider Ryan Parkinson was dropped from the leading group leaving the 3 remaining riders, Jude Davison, Joe Beckingsale and Oliver Halliday to fight for the podium places.
Welshman Beckingsale, currently working at Pirelli in Carlisle, took first place ahead of on form local rider Davison with Gateshead’s Halliday putting in another strong ride in third.
Ryan Parkinson finished in 4th place and was the first 3rd Category rider home. Ian Hanratty of Whitehaven was the first 4th Category finisher and Lucy Glover first woman. Fastest lap of the night was ridden by Joe Beckingsale in a fraction over 1 minute 12 seconds – a speed of 31 miles per hour.
Racing returns next week with competitions for all Youth age groups followed by a race for 3rd and 4th Category adults.
