It was record day of cross racing for Sotonia at Fairthorne Manor for round 7 of Wessex League on Sunday as an incredible 27 club racers aged 5 to 64 made sure the Sotonia gazebo and bike rack were full all day. The course was on the bumpy side but that didn’t stop some good tussles especially between our 8 seniors. Tom Budden finished just two seconds off 6th with his favourite 8th place and Jon Hall shrugged off last weeks injury with 4th in the v40s. Phil Wilks, Phil Godfrey, Matt Dixon, and cx newbie Ant Gritton all riding strongly too. Chairman Jon Dudley earning 18th in the v50s. Not forgetting Gemma Wilks, (one of four Wilks family racers) 12th in the women’s race. Brilliant work everyone!
And what a fantastic turnout from our youth – in the U10’s we had no less than nine taking part, another record for Sotonia. George Connell faired best with a well taken 7th place only a few seconds from 5th place out of 52 young starters. Felix Darnton coming in next of our youngsters with a great 10th place closely followed by Aaron Hay, a great ride for his first time. The U12’s had Max Darnton and Louis Kirk representing Sotonia. With both starting near the back of the grid not the best of starts was expected, but boy did they both put on a show. Slowly picking their way through the back markers to finish 6th and 11th.
A big well done to all.
Sotonia Cyclocross races coming soon…
The Sotonia Cyclocross, now in its 5th year, is to be held at Southampton Sports Centre on Sunday 13th November. This year brings the exciting news that BBC South want to come and film it giving us a great opportunity to get cyclocross on the telly!!
Last year’s event was a great success with nearly 300 competitors (more expected this year), live music, commentary and a well stocked cake stall. This year we’re going to make it even better and really whip up some excitement for the crowd with an entertaining course, real coffee from Coffee Cruiser along with all the other familiar attractions.
Hope to see you there!
