Tour of the Middle 10th April 2005 Report

Mark Kelly last Sunday won the 48 mile road race, Tour of the Middle organised by the Manx Viking Wheelers (Shoprite Clubman). Only 14 of the 36 riders opted to ride the 8 lap 6 mile Stuggadhoo circuit, whilst the remaining 24 chose the B & C events of 6 and 3 laps respectively. However pre race favourite Kelly had to use all of his International and Commonwealth Games experience to hold off young guns Jonathan Bellis and Peter Kennaugh ( who are only 16 and 15) by a couple of bike lengths.

It was encouraging that the two youngsters gamely bridged the gap to Kelly after Graeme Hatcher ran out of steam when he was working with Mark with only two laps remaining in the race. There was a strong contingent of road club riders left in the bunch who then controlled the race to the sprint finish which saw Island Games Mountain Bike rider Tristen Gell getting the gallop a further 30 seconds down.

The first main attack of the day saw Gianni Epifanni (MVW) and Andy Bell (EV) get a slender lead of 30 seconds on the second lap which was soon neutralised; later a solo attempt was made by ex professional Mike Doyle who built up a full minute before he was reeled in. Hard working Peter Gage was rewarded with fifth place and took first vet for the minor placings.

The B event was won by a fast finishing Peter Doyle (MRC) who out sprinted former triathlete Chris Lee, whilst third position went to newcomer and fast improving Matthew Holden.

The majority of the B riders stayed together until the bell lap only allowing Graham Hughes to go solo for a lap. Ironically for several laps the B riders were circulating the laps in similar times to those of the A riders as they worked well together in the bright and breezy conditions.

The C event saw only 3 riders tackling the 3 laps which saw Andrew Collister comfortably winning in 1 hour 4 minutes 36 seconds from Mark Stewart both (MVW Shoprite Clubman). Mother of three Jackie Kennaugh was the only brave lady to take part finishing in third position.

Organiser Tony Varley would like to thank Maggie Magee for the hire of Braaid Hall, Ard Jerkyll tea rooms for post refreshments, time keeper Michelle Kewley, lead cars Colin Cowie and Peter Link, marshals (golden oldies) Mike O’Hare, Brian Nelson, Terry Quayle, Jim Cottier and Richard from Bikestyle.

*Finally riders are reminded that they must pay when signing on in the bike shops. Riders who chose to sign on on the day will have to pay double entry fee. Please try and make it easier for the officials of all clubs.

Over and out by 53 x 12.