Cyclocross Hawke's
Bay first race of the series was held at Blackbarn Winery, Havelock North. Held
in beautiful sunny conditions, with rainfall softening up the track on Friday
night, the course designers noticed a hidden creek bed covered in grass. The top
layer of grass was soon removed, and this is where the "Love Channel"
was found. A 20 meter section of pure sweet mud. For the roadies in the field,
there was no escaping it. And surprisingly enough this is where most of the
spectators choose to stand also. With 90 riders in all grade’s, the Hawkes Bay Cyclocross
scene looks to be growing from strength to strength.
The free kids event
attracted 40 riders, from 2 year olds up to 12 year olds. This was a awesome
turnout and all having great fun on their bikes.
A grade was lead from
start to finish by Gary Hall who lapped all but Josh Page, in a storming ride.
Angus Findlay rode well to gain 3rd place. Findlay a top Under 19 rider in NZ
rate's Cyclocross as one of the most physically demanding sports. With young riders
like Angus getting into Cyclocross, NZ could see a future star on the world
Cyclocross scene.
In the B race,
Auckland rider …. Made the trip worth
his while leading from the gun. .. Looked to use his past Cyclocross experience
and made the tricky course to work to his liking. Local rider’s Hayley Davis
and Mirko Zatezalo, duelled it out until Davis put in the final attack and left
Mirko in the mud.
Results A Grade:
1.Gary Hall
2. Josh Page
3. Angus Findlay
Results B Grade:
1. Alister Coomer
2. Hayley Davis
3. Mirko Zatezalo
Next up is the
Specialized National Champs to be held in Taradale. There will also be a
all-comers grade open to anyone wanting to try Cyclocross and any kind of bike
can be ridden.
Cyclocross Hawke's
Bay would like to thank Specialized for all there help and support for our
events. It’s been ideal to have a leading brand like Specialized behind the
series and keen to build the Cyclocross scene in New Zealand.
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