Ledbury & Back 2009

Good conditions for a change greeted the 16 riders for this year’s Ledbury and Back. With both the Ross record holder (Jerry Roberts) and the actual course record holder (Andy Jones) in attendance, was the record safe? In reality, I think we all knew it was going to tumble, but by how much?

In the end a massive 2:17 was eroded off the time. I think it could have been more but for the fact Cookie’s weak up the hills! Another well-done Cookie!!!

Andrew

put in a ride only 12 seconds slower than his course record, his form almost back for the rest of the season then. Fallon put in a jolly good ride but is now suffering with Neck Problems!!!!! It appears he is now spending too much time looking around to the ever-improving Dave on his shirttails. You can tell Dave’s serious, as he has now shaved his legs, when asked about it, saying he preferred Immac as opposed to wet shaving. Jerry looked like a tired man as he crossed the line, obviously having given what beans there were. A lack of miles in this company is showing, but wait for the hills, that’s all I’m going to say! (Jerry - don’t let me down).

Revelation of the year Martin Green of the RDFCC once again has put in a really good effort, basing his performances on his winter training giving him a good base fitness. Can’t help thinking there must be a few good miles there as well as the new bike.

Initially I was disappointed with my ride, but looking back in the history books, I’m in the normal ballpark so happier. Mr. Reynolds this week had his extra strong bi-focals on, managing to complete the course in its entirety, all this being in his game plan for the weekend’s adventures on a bike. Many commented on how well young Tom’s performed. I can personally say he is climbing really well, but lacks serious speed on the flat bits, and was a bit naughty - sitting on a wheel will get you disqualified in an open.

Graham Carter appeared to have enjoyed his ride, with his 80’s retro aero helmet giving that slick look. Graham possibly suffered up the climbs, as his fitness level is still building back up from his accident last year. Taff used the new TT bike, but with the saddle dropping down to the original owner’s short leg length, the return journey was tough. What I will say to him is it takes time to get used to the new position. James on a borrowed bike put in an absolutely cracking ride. This is the sort of course that suits his style.

Clive, in his first club event of the year seemed very happy with it, especially as hills are not his favourite. Will’s lack of mid season miles is showing up, but the spurt to the finish was one of the quickest over the line, leaving Taff in his wake. Apologies to Wayne! Accidentally gave him a later start than I should have. Wayne appeared to enjoy his ride even if it was a little lonely, again with a very good time. I get the impression Wayne enjoys the hills back. Bill again rode with his customary grin on his face. He always appears to suffer on the easy downhill outward section, then comes back on the return leg at a fair lick.

Rider of the night this week is a real hard choice. Several at the post race meeting said Dave, but one has also to consider Cookie’s performance, hacking such a large chunk off the record. In the end, rather than have rider of the night, I plumped for performances of the night and called it a draw between the two!

Alan Cook 36:11
Andrew Jones 38:40 RDFCC
Paul Fallon 40:39
Dave Harwood 40:44
Jerry Roberts 41:00
Martin Green 42:35 RDFCC
Paul Stephens 43:38
Steve Reynolds 43:50 Pontypool CC
Tom Knight 44:10
Graham Carter 44:24
Mark Lavington 44:37
James Wilson 46:13
Clive Chappe 46:29
Will Bevan 46:33
Wayne Mason 47:34
Bill Reay 51:29

Timing equipment used this week was Julie Stephens.
Launch control system used this week was Steve Millard (thanks & I thought you had changed your mind and was going to ride)
Trajectory changes and official notice suppliers to other violators of space, John and Audrey Hall.

Next week were back for another very fast (I can feel it in my water) Walford 10 starting at 7:30

Forest event Tuesday is 3 laps of their Cannop circuit.

Paul