4^th December 2006

The Payton Family continued their successful cyclo-cross season for Stourbridge CC with good results in round eight of the Midlands League. The event at Mallory Park, Leicester saw Tom Payton record his first win of the season, which was also his first as a junior rider. In a sprint finish he managed to edge ahead of fellow junior Steven Proud.

At the Midland Championships held at Rugeley on Sunday 3^rd December Tom anticipated another victory. However it was not to be. On the second circuit while challenging for the lead Tom was forced off the course, hitting a tree. He remounted his bike and rejoined the race but was only able to continue for a short distance when he sensibly retired.

Earlier in the day Hannah Payton continued to improve finishing second in the girls race. The race was won by Leicestershire Road Club’s Lucy Garner who is fast developing into the top Girl in the country. This is the second week Hannah has finished behind the Leicester rider in her first season of Cyclo Cross.

In addition to chauffeuring his son and daughter to races Kevin Payton competes each week in the veterans category. His consistent placings have to be shared with duties as family mechanic at each event. The joys of parenthood prevail.

The Clubs former National Champion at Cyclo Cross Isla Rowntree has had to step down from competition at present due to business commitments. Isla hopes to compete again later in the season.