8^th January 2007

ISLA GRABS BRONZE MEDAL IN THE MUD AT SOUTHAMPTON

Stourbridge Cycling Clubs’ former National Champion Isla Rowntree came out of semi retirement to take the Bronze medal in the National Cyclo Cross Championship held at Southampton last Sunday.

Like most of the country, weather conditions were wet and windy, turning parts of the off-road course into a quagmire. Due to business pressures Isla had not raced competitively since October and wasn’t realistically in with a chance of a medal. Defending champion Helen Wyman of Global Racing -currently third in the World rankings was the firm favourite.

Rowntree drew on her vast experience in the difficult conditions picking the right lines to ride which proved crucial as she held off a strong challenge in the later stages of the race. The former winner said she was really excited at taking a medal in view of her lack of competition.

On the previous day the clubs youngest racing member 12 years old Hannah Payton almost snatched a bronze medal in the under 14 category. Hannah was in contention throughout the race and confirmed the form she has shown in the winter season as a newcomer to Cyclo Cross racing.

Tom Payton (16) racing in the under 18 junior category finished a creditable 13^th in a hotly contested race which contained a number of Great Britain international riders. Father Kevin Payton completed a satisfactory weekend for the family when he finished 41^st in the Veteran category as well as acting as mechanic, bike cleaner and Chauffer.