The Bill Higson Memorial Race, also round 4 of the Wessex Season was hosted at a staple of the Wessex calendar, Prospect Park. The traditional CX conditions were on show, making an already tough course, very technical and physically demanding. The slippery mud through tight corners, and steep banks made for exciting racing throughout the day.
The U10 Boys showcased impressive technique and speed. The competition was fierce, with Freddie Trosh in second place. In the Under 12 girls race, Matilda Wilks and Eve Carline 4th and 5th. The Under 14s displayed incredible endurance and skill, Tom Wilks crossing the finish line second.
In the Under 16s Open, a very close and competitive race was on the cards, with Tom Allen and Niclas Olley blasting the race apart on lap 1. In the final whittling down of the front group Tom was in the running for the win, only a bizarre mechanical with a crank arm coming loose denying him a chance. Tom and Niclas eventually coming 3rd and 4th. In the girls race, Izzy Hall finished a strong second.
The Junior Open category delivered an electrifying race, George Connell impressing again with 7th. In the Vet 40-49 category, the competition was fierce among the men, with Sotonia riders making up 5 of the top 10 places. Andrew Gardiner in second, Tom Budden 6th, followed by Phil Wilks, Pete Boustred and Phil Banks. In the female v40 race, Gemma Wilks scored a brilliant second place. Emma Harrison finishing 5th in the junior women’s race.
The Vet 50-59 riders put on a spectacular display of talent and determination. Jason Harrison top club finisher in a quality field of nearly 90 riders, in 19th. In the senior men, Lewis Revill was Mr Consistent with another fine 13th place.
Overall, very impressive racing by all, on a classic course, thank you to all involved. See you all at round 5 in Southampton hosted by Sotonia next Weekend!
Photos: Pitchside Paul