Irvine Beach Cyclocross - 26th October 2014

Post date: 01-Nov-2014 17:44:38

Gail forces winds, spiky horizontal rain and so much sea crashing up the beach that we were lucky(!) to have the sand dune to ride through was what was in store for the 380 plus riders.

The well laid out course was taped out along the flat of the land to prevent too much wind destruction and hazard to the riders. Any cyclist on a bike that day will know how tough things were, and even more so out on the coast of the wild, wild west of Scotland.

The hardy souls of Perth turned out and competed in the Under 14 boys, Veteran Ladies and Vet 40 races . The weather provided that extra challenge that we all love on a day out on the cross bike!

First to go was Rory and Aaron showing what power and determination these youngsters have. Fighting in the head wind and manoeuvring the bike in the turns when the wind was your enemy, as well as the competitors, was a truly magnificent show. The guys finished in a creditable 5^th for Rory and 11^th for Aaron.

At least there was a tail wind up the steep running section; however, Anne’s control over the bike was thwarted as the wind ripped the bike out of her hands on the top throwing it on the ground unceremoniously. The chain was off and competitors were passing. However, she battled on and managed to claw back some places finishing 4^th Vet Lady after a sprint to the line against her closest rival.

Barry and Gordon both got front row billing in the grid at the start of their race, a first for them this season and proof of their strong performances. They have played cat and mouse in all their races, who would be ahead this time?! Gordon got a cracking start and emerged into the arena in 3^rd places after the twisty turns on the grass. The fierce conditions meant a few setbacks were inevitable over the challenging course. Chain off, foot down, sand dune hold ups and the continuing ferocious weather met the trio of Perth guys throughout the course of the race. The chequered flag was bolt upright in the stiff wind at the finish line and all three Perth Riders completed their race un-scathed! Gordon was 11^th, Barry 14^th and Jim 85^th.

A very testing day out was had by all!

Gordon, lying in 3rd place early on

Barry, with a great view of the Portloos in the background