NWCCA Round 3 – Heaton Park – Manchester Bicycle Club ‘cross – result

An incredible turn out of 378 riders across all categories took to the turf for the inaugural Manchester Bicycle Club cyclocross event at Heaton Park.

A course layout well executed by a group of club members and other volunteers under the watchful eye of event organiser Mike Cleary proved to be very popular, two sets of barriers, technical off camber elements mixed with a short sharp climb, root filled woods, and some fast flowing sections provided a mix that made for great racing.

68 junior and youths took to the early races. A testament to the NWCCA’s entry policy where many can race for one pound. The enthusiasm and determination on show suggest CX in the Nir West has a bright future.

Nick Craig (Scott Racing) provided a masterclass in controlled riding, attacking Chris Taylor (Paul Milnes Cycles) about a third of the way in to the race to win by over a minute, completing 7 laps. Kris Spreckley (Manchester Wheelers) came in a very commendable third to round out the podium.

In the women’s race Becky Preece (Contessa Scott Syncros) looked as smooth as ever to win, leading from the gun and ending with a three minute gap to Alison Rushton (Ribble Valley Juniors). Ruth Taylor (Manchester Wheelers) made it the second podium of the day for the club.

For the seniors it was a rapid start with the lead group of Giles Drake (Leisure Lakes Bikes), Nick Craig (Scott Racing) and Jo Peatfield (Horwich CC) establishing a gap very quickly.

Ultimately the super high pace proved to much for Peatfield who finished solo in third. Drake and Craig battled for the remainder of the race before Craig showed his class to attack with a quarter of a lap to go and take his second win of the day.

Scott Wilson (Team Elite) was the best of the rest for four, holding off a race long challenge from Paul Lalley (Omnipex Bioracer)

Thanks to all those that officiated, volunteered and raced, and as always, the NWCCA team for their continued efforts.