The Bay's first Cyclocross race at EIT was a roaring success, according to co-organiser Andrew Barlow, with more than 30 competitors and about 100 spectators braving the wintry wind on Sunday morning.
Mr Barlow said "about 99 per cent" of competitors had never tried the off-road race that differed from other cycle events by obstacles that required cyclists to carry their bikes.
Eighteen competitors took on the longer "A race" course, with Dan Warren taking the top spot, edging ahead of Gary Hall who was leading for early part of the race.
Bill Barker bet the smaller field of six riders in the shorter "B race", while young Sam McArdle won the kids' event.
First-time competitor Ingrid Perols had tried the sport on only one other occasion, but already she was planning to enter the series' other three races held over winter. "The course was great. It was challenging, but achievable for everyone. And it was muddy, which only adds to the fun," she said. The hardest part, she said, was carrying her mountainbike up stairs and over obstacles, in between racing over the off-road terrain.
The next race will be held at Eskdale Mountain Bike Park, July 24.
Registration from 9am, short race starts 10am, long race starts 11am, kids' race in between. The cost is $10 per adult ride, $5 for students, kids aged up to 13 race for free. Visit www.cxhb.blogspot.com for race results and more information.
Rising to challenge from Cyclocross
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