First Walford 10 of the year

What a good turn out for the first Walford 10 of the year! Was it the thought of the free chip extravaganza afterward that drew the throngs? Conditions picked up just before the event with the wind dieing down a little and the temperature rising slightly. With this in mind, it appeared that everyone brought their bling kit out for its first real test.

Fastest rider of the evening was Dave Evans of the Vorest club knocking 42 seconds off his personal best. He’s set his sights on a sub 22 this season, which I’m sure will happen.

A very unfit Cookie was the best of the Ross crew. I think the fire is back in his belly. Fallon’s effort was a good reward for all the winters work, with his 23 on Walford just around the corner. He won the “What the f@!k” award when he saw how close Dave was to his time. Dave when stranded abroad didn’t waste his time hanging around for a plane, but instead jumped on a ferry and did another Majorcan training camp.

My predictions about "The Destroyer’s" form looks right. I can see him being at the other end of the 24 before long. I to had a PB, and have worked out the value of my wheels to be £8.00 per a second, which makes them very good value for money.

Gordon usually turns up for the Boxing Day 10, so warm weather must have been a nice change helping to knock 2 minutes off his course PB. Martin appeared to be looking forward the chips more than the race. Terry Gray was another face from the past, being the 1st home on a road bike.

Alan Taylor’s speed is slowly coming back, another potential 24 minute man. Wobbley Bob made what I think is a good start to the season, but alas he, like the rest of us was unhappy with his time. Bazzer Bailey will need to keep a eye over his shoulder as Taff has him in his sights. Taff decided to frighten the opposition by riding past everyone when they were signing on at full tilt. I feel this left him lacking later in the event, but he did look very professional! There again, Taff will also need to be looking over his shoulder as Sam will be the man to watch once he learns the art of pacing. Adam had a hard day driving down to Cronwall & back so this may have jaded his performance a little. James managed to get one over on Clive. The winter training starting to pay off. Wayne was another unhappy with his time, only down 50 seconds from his best. You will beat it very soon I'm sure.

Robin F, you’ve have started the season within seconds of last years time. A few rides to work and back will get you down to the 27’s easily. Tony looked a bit puckered
once he had finished only needing to find another 29 second to break evens or .32mph average. Sounds easy said like that! It was actually a 3:30 improvement, making a happy chappie

Mike once again wanted to give us all a chance leaving his mudguards and saddle bag on full of house bricks. What a gent. Pat must be praying that next week he puts a extra brick in so he can close that 5 second gap.

Mary brought a friend along Vivien, who performed possibly a little better than Mary had anticipated stealing Mary’s scalp by 50 seconds. I do hope she enjoyed the experience and we see her again. Bottom of the pile was Will who punctured at the 6 mile stage. He to was on for a 24 minute 10. See how he does next time out.

A really big thank you to Bill for doing the turn and getting the Chips for the after race feast. Sorry I didn’t get to thank you before you left. They hit the spot just right.

For Bazza Bailey, chip butties were a new experience, and now wants to know when were doing it again. Rider of the Night was a hard one with so many people to chose from, but the general vote from everyone saw it shared between “THE DESTROYER” and my good self for smashing our PB’s on Walford. It was noted Tony was also considered for this accolade just missing out on this occasion.

Don’t forget, next week is another Walford.

Any volunteers for turn marshal will be warmly received. Please let me know ASAP.

Paul Fallon needs either your entries for the Cross Ash Hilly this weekend or a pledge to help out. Do not make him panic having to chase people up, as it’s no fun.