From then on the combined group held together with strong rides from those taking turns on the front.
Along the Kaimatira Rd the cross winds forced riders to form echelons in an attempt to shelter from the breeze.
As the laps continued, pressure from the stronger competitors saw inexperienced or weaker riders fall off the group.
Cheatley took out the second lap sprint followed by Michael Wright on lap three and Darcy Forrester on lap four.
On the final lap Johnstone drove the group forward.
As the final sprint on Rangitikei St came closer the intensity increased as several riders attempted to make a break but were unsuccessful.
With only 150m to go the riders jostled for position trying to gain an advantage.
A wheel was clipped as the remaining 10 riders in the group fought for position and at those speeds they were moving at to bring down Pettit.
Sadly, his injuries required medical attention in hospital.
Those not directly involved in the crash went on to complete the race with Sturzaker taking line honours from Steve Cowan and Gosney.
As the race was a sealed handicap taking into account prognostic times for each rider Ross McNeil was awarded first place followed by Pat Johstone and Rob Gemmell.
It was was a well deserved victory for McNeil and recognises his honest endeavours and improving performances as the season has progressed.
The C Grade lined up for three laps of the same course, as the club welcomed back Ron Manson and Jim Callaghan who recently had an accident on his bike.
Neither rider seemed unduly affected by their misadventures as they rode competitively throughout the afternoon.
Dean Blackwell took out the race with Manson second, young Joseph Loveridge-Mills third and Callaghan fourth.
Julie Weir also completed the course three minutes off the front runners.
Results
A and B combined: 1. Jason Sturzaker; 2. Steve Cowan; 3. Adam Gosney.
Sealed handicap: 1. Ross McNeil; 2. Pat Johnstone; 3. Rob Gemmell.
C Grade: 1. Dean Blackwell; 2. Rob Manson; 3. Jim Callaghan.
