Local riders enjoyed success at Carlisle Cycling Association’s racing last night when a good number of riders from the north and west of the county took part.
The first race of the night was for Category 4 riders, British Cycling’s entry level race licence category.
The bunch rode most of the race at a steady pace with the whole group coming into the final bend together.
Velo Club Cumbria’s Liam Martin proved to have the strongest sprint though and he was chased all the way to the line by Scot Angus Harrold.
The podium was completed by another Velo Club Cumbria rider, David Jones. The two club mates are both new to circuit racing this summer but are already making their mark and contributing to a strong season for the West Cumbrian club this year.
Dark clouds were gathering by the time the more experienced riders went to the start line for the next race, but thankfully the rain held off and a strong field raced in warm conditions free from the strong winds which often influence racing in Carlisle.
A strong three-man group consisting of Dearham’s Jude Davison, Wolf Cycles’ Oli Dawson and Scottish rider Robert Smart broke away from the main group and stamped their authority on the race quite early.
Oliver Halliday, visiting from the North East, was determined not to let them escape however, making repeated attempts to bridge the gap.
Unfortunately his brave efforts were in vain, however, and the leading trio worked well together to build up a substantial advantage.
Smart made a bid for victory in the final lap, attacking with around 700 metres to go but the young Scot was soon chased down by his breakaway companions.
It was the in-form Davison who proved strongest in the final sprint, pulling away from Dawson and Smart in the closing seconds of the race and adding another 10 British Cycling ranking points to his tally.
Fastest lap of the night was ridden by the tenacious Halliday in just over 1 minute 13 seconds.
The race series concludes next week with racing for all categories of Youth and Adult riders and the Association’s end of season awards.
