LVRC Enville Road Race

Sunday 13^th April saw the annual staging of this popular Veterans (over 40s) event. The promotion attracted a full field of 80 riders competing in three concurrent races. They were split into age groups 40 – 49, 50 – 59 and 60 plus. The latter race attracted three over 70’s

Race distance is 52 miles for all riders who cover the 10 miles circuit five times with the finish off course up the Enville side of Camp Hill. There are significant climbs each lap compensated by fast sections. The mile and a half climb from Bobbington to Six Ashes is well known for its ability to break up the field.

Rarely does the event finish in a massed bunch. Sunday was no exception.

The morning dawned with rain which soon cleared to give a day of unbroken sunshine with a light SW wind. Ideal racing conditions.

The first race was “flagged” away from the HQ at Bobbington Village Hall at 10am. The other two races started at intervals of 5 mins and 3mins.

Former club member Carl Halpin (MI Racing) immediately launched an attack and built up a maximum lead over chasing groups of 1 min 20 secs. He was caught eventually by three other riders. They battled out the final 15 miles with the victory going to Phil Rayner from Carl Halpin

SCC’s Kevin Payton enjoyed his debut as a veteran roadman finished a fine 5^th in his category and 9^th in the event.

Race 2 was more compact in the early stages. A group of 9 riders detached themselves into the lead on the final lap with former GB International rider Alan Kemp (Weaver Valley) taking a fine solo win for the second year in succession.

Race 3 featured the over 60’s. This was dominated by ex SCC rider Tony Taylor.

Now competing in the MI Race Team. Tony went away on the first ascent of Six Ashes and soloed to a convincing win with a margin of 4mins 23secs over his nearest rival team mate Mick Ives.

Many thanks to all Club members and friends for the essential help they gave in whatever capacity. The day was a fine advert for the club and cycling.

Les Archer. Organiser