In disgusting weather conditions, over 50 riders rolled away from the start line in the centre of Owston Village to contest the CiCLE CLASSIC Kermesse organised by Welland Valley Cycling Club.
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Thanks to organiser Dean Barnett for the report, Photos courtesy of Steve KingÂ
The riders faced a tough 35 miles as the rain lashed down, the wind increased and temperature plummeted. The Kermesse circuit is ‘mega hard’ on a good day, it was very evident after only a couple of miles that this was going to be a very challenging day for riders, officials, marshalls and a small cluster of spectators in Owston.
As the rain water started to run off the surrounding farmland, streams that normally have a trickle of water were now a torrent! Â Standing water was starting to have a major impact on the event. As the race completed lap one, Peter Cocker(Witham Wheelers) and Chris Metcalfe (Charge Bikes) had forged clear of a chasing pack of eight riders. Peter took the first lap prime with Chris content to follow in the wheels.
As the race proceeded towards Burrough on The Hill, from first rider to last, there was a gap of 6 minutes after only 7 miles of racing.
The leaders reached Marefield Lane and a fast descent into a valley where the river had burst it’s banks across the road and was over a foot deep and increasing. There was concern for this event and the following Rutland – Melton International.
It was decided that the Kermesse would only complete one further lap. As the leading duo took the bell, Lee Wiggington (Bio Cadenza RT) had broken clear from a group being led by Matthew Neil (Team Tri A Sport), Asa Ellkington (Boston Wheelers) and the promoting club’s Phil Rayner.
Information was coming back to the HQ that the road conditions had deteriorated greatly in a short period of time. Fifteen riders had passed the finish line and started the bell lap, and as more riders approached the bell they were stopped and told to head back to the HQ. There were no complaints from any of the riders, more a look of relief that they could enjoy the excellent hospitality and warmth in Owston Village Hall.
With 15 intrepid racers still fighting for ranking points they were being shepherded by a committed group of marshalls from Welland Valley CC, Rutland Velo and Fenland Clarion.
Metcalfe gradually eased away from the 16 year old Witham Wheeler Cocker, and the Charge Bikes sponsored rider climbed through Owston village to secure a well deserved victory.
Cocker was frantically looking behind as he entered the last 500m as he had suffered a rear wheel puncture on the final run in. With plenty time in hand Peter crossed the finish line on foot.
Behind Lee Wiggington stormed to an excellent 3rd ahead of Matthew Neil.
First Veteran home and the winner of Magnum of Duval was Phil Rayner in 6th place.
As this race finished, the attention of the promoting club turned to the logistics of the Elite race. Welland Valley Cycling Club rose to the challenge to ensure a diversion could be accommodated by extending the Owston, Burrough circuit by 3 miles to bypass the the torrent which had now become impassable by vehicles.
On an ultra difficult day and in abysmal conditions, the safe passage of the CiCLE CLASSIC Kermesse and Rutland – Melton International was made possible by a great group of people, many thanks for your continued support – Holly, Ross, Heather, Katie, Jake, Linda, Ray, Nick, Matt P, Matt C, Rachael, Isabelle, Harriet, Stuart, Claudine, Sam, Vic, Ann, Jeremy, Dave, Rebecca (VCR), Charlotte (VCR), Steve (FC), Lindsey (FC), Peter, Karen, Elaina, Ian, Gerrard, Maria and the villagers of Owston for their hospitality.
‘The way you all reacted to the changing circumstances in both races was magnificent.’
Organiser, CiCLE Classic Kermesse, Dean Barnett
CiCLE CLASSIC Kermesse
1. Chris Metcalfe Charge Bikes
2. Peter Cocker Witham Wheelers
3. Lee Wigginton Bio Cadenza RT
4. Matthew Nell Team Tri A Sport
5. Asa Elkington Boston Wheelers
6. Phil Raynor Welland Valley CC – 1st Vet
7. David Langlands Fenland Clarion
8. Ian Russell Newark Castle
9. Mark Botteley Bourne Wheelers
10. Luke Beswick Buxton CC