Smyth Takes First Win at The Kelly Race
What a night for the first Club Race of 2015. The road had been resurfaced, the sunshine was out and wind was light. Since this is the first race and there are no league points the usual scratch group decided to take up marshalling duties and hope to attract first time racers.
Before the race could even get started we need to dip our caps to Gavin for getting the prize sorted which is a framed Dromara CC Shirt signed by the great Sean Kelly.
Its only the start of the Club League but you will here this be mentioned at all the reports I am sure and that is Marshals make races happen so many thanks to the guys and gals below.
Timekeepers – Barry Van K, Lisa M, Paul G
Timekeepers’ assistants – Gibson family, Olivia M, Trevor B, Martin
Lead car – Deek H
Corner marshals – Chris M, Gary G, Marcus M, Gareth W, Ronnie S, Beverley P, Emma J, Jim McM, Neil A, Davy F, Eddie D, Linda F (+ 2 more scrawls I can’t read)
Photographs – Graham B, Gavin M
As with all Club Races the secret is all in which Group you get put into, with the idea of trying to get yourself in a group that suits your speed. Group 1 & 2 got joined together and had young Peter Davidson trying out a road bike for size and will be disappointed there was no bunny hopping opportunities. Group 3 saw quite a few new faces with Stephen Irvine and Graham Smyth trying their hand at this road racing lark. Group 4 was full of over eager youngsters and a few auld hands.
With the race only being 5 laps it was always going to be difficult for Group 4 to catch Group 3 but with Group 4 split it became impossible. From what I hear Group 3 worked very well together and hoovered up Group 1 & 2 by the second lap with Peter D managing to hold on to the group. By the last lap group 4 where all together but 2 mins down on the front group. In a sprint for the line young Graham Smyth burst out to take the win with the ever young Marty McAnulty taking second place and Stephen Irvine completing the podium with a well deserved third place.
Special mention on the night must go to Peter D on a great ride to hold in Group 3 and take 5th place for his first road race – not bad for a downhill mtb’er.
When the dust had settled and all the tea and biscuits had been finished it turned out to be a great night of racing with hopefully many more to come.
Results below:
Next week is the 2 up at Lurgan road all info found here
Photos can be found on facebook or here
