Much Marcle 3 lapper

Just before the rain

Gruesome weather seems to have become the norm on a Thursday night, once again this was no exception. Pre-race banter was at a high this week as people fought for shelter under trees. In fairness it was only light rain till the first rider was due to start, then it chucked it down. We held the start up for 20 minutes waiting for Clive Chappe who had said he was riding, but never materialised.

Clive Newey led the proceedings, steam pouring from his rear tyre as he pulled away, this gave young Matt a dry line when he started. The tail wind in the village gave the impression we would have a flyer from the first turn to the roundabout. Funny how these things never pan out. Headwind for the rest of the course was what the doctor ordered.

Back on the road to recovery Turbo Will lit it up for the 3 laps, upsetting Clive as he passed him up the big climb doing about 25 miles an hour difference in speed. Judging by the lap times the pacing was good but he did look a little disappointed with his result. 

Mr Consistent on the evening was “el Destroyer”. He did say afterwards he felt he could go faster, but there was a gravitational thing slowing him down, similar to the moon going around the earth. At the time he couldn’t quite get a handle on it. He did say it started about the same time as he passed “The Missile” which was about lap 2.

On the other hand The Missile had his fastest lap on lap 2 about the same time as this strange gravitational pull befell Graham. Several marshals said Graham kept slowing down at their marshalling points which allowed The Missile  to re bridge the gap and persuade Graham to go a little faster as I was in sight.   I was wet and cold, but not going too bad up the climbs, a whole 2 seconds faster than the vintage tankard time from last year.

Young Matty was next home. What happened lap 2? Did you go to sleep, as you were back on the money for the third lap. I suspect you were taken out of your comfort zone being an extra 9 miles compared to what you’re used to. 

I thought James would shine here, having a few hills, so was very surprised to pass him on his own territory. I think we have to reassess your position on your bike, as I know you can go a lot faster.

The inclement weather, lack of riding, one of the hardest Ross courses may have been a little too much for “The Animal”. With back pain and feeling cold he jacked at the end of the 2 lap.

Thanks this week go to Paul Fallon for pushing off, Bill Reay turn 1, Mary Munchkin Middleton turn 2 and Paul Fallon turn 3. Julie timed with the help of Mark “Downhill” Carter spotting.

Rider of the night this week is Turbo Will for almost a minute off his last attack of the course.

New award this week only is Drafter of the night. This goes to The Missile for his gravitational effects on Graham.

 

Next week is the Road bike 10.  This levels the playing field as no one will be using any aero kit. It will show who’s fast fast..

This means 

No Aero helmets

No Aero Frames

No Aero wheels

No Aero handlebars/Tri bars

No shaven eyebrows or bald heads. If bald please wear a toupee.

You may shave your legs this year

Help wanted

With 2 opens being run next month, myself and Will will need help/volunteers, and maybe the odd cake (normal cakes also welcome). Please get in contact if you can help out, we need your support. If you’re planning to enter, get your entries in, not long now.