Although short in lap distance, the 12-lap course certainly made up for it in climbing and thick mud, with only five riders completing the full distance in race three of the Caesarean Cycling Club’s Trinity Tyres Mountain Bike Winter Series.The first lap was, as usual, set by James Paterson, with Bruce Dingle, Kieron Mills, Richard Tanguy and Robin Ovenden close behind.On the first tricky and very muddy climb a gap was opened by Paterson and Ovenden and this remained unchallenged for eight laps.
Having ridden consistently in third, Mills then made his move with two laps remaining and rode powerfully to take his first victory of the season.In the Sports class it was all change at the top, with the experience of Christian Guegan showing as he picked his way through the field to take the win over young James Ollivier.
Gary Osbourne had a fantastic race, managing to finish third in this class and eighth overall and there were notable rides by Jim Connolly and Jack Cunnigham.The Veteran Class was again dominated by Bruce Dingle who led from the start and finished comparatively unchallenged in first place.
Further back, a good battle was taking place between the ever-competitive Dave Bihet, Colin Malzard and Ian Cabot.
Second and third finally went to Bihet and Cabot with Malzard reportedly taking time out to revisit his breakfast!The Junior Class was won by Richard Tanguy who put in a marvellous ride to finish fifth overall on his return and who looks likely to move up to the Sports Class soon.The Schoolboy Class was another tough race with Scott Dingle riding steadily in the heavy conditions, while being chased by the ever-improving Ryan Hidrio and Tim Faudemer.
