Former RAS man John O'Halloran marked his return to bike racing last night with a win for WLCC in the first round of the Covey Western League. The course was five laps of the 8k Srah loop.
Conditions were a balmy 19C at the start. John turned up at the line looking lean and mean, its over 14 years since john raced a bike in angry and stepping back into the fray had to be exciting for him, his recent training and old head ensured that he was at the right place at the right time 40k later.
In all 42 riders signed on and five groups were set off. The handicaps were managed very well with the third and some of the second group just managing to stay away from the chasing pack with just seconds to spare. The scratch and fourth group came together in the last 1k and nearly caught John's group.
All the top ten came from the second and third group with the exception of Covey man Sean Hastings. Sean started in the fourth group and at the Party Junction last lap round, he broke away on his own to catch the leaders only yards from the finish line and ended up second in the sprint.
Well done to those who took part who are new to racing. Keep it going.
The real heros are those of you who gave up your time to help out on the night with marshalling, driving, sign on, finish, handicaps and anyone else who helped out. We simply could not enjoy our pastime without your help.
The next round will be held on Wednesday 1 June with the same course
League Table to follow..
