Report: John May Memorial Road Race

Danny Lowthorpe wins the John May Memorial Road Race promoted by Wakefield Cycling Club.

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By Andy May, www.maysportsimages.com

Thankfully the weather stayed dry for this years race, although a fierce wind made riding on exposed sections of the course very difficult, especially up Normanton Bypass. The race was extended by two laps this year, meaning twelve laps of the gruelling circuit and a race distance of 115km/ 72 miles.

After a few unsuccessful breaks on the first lap the decisive move of the race came on lap two when Ben Ives, Jack Cutsforth, Ashley Brown, Simon Wilson, Julian Pearson, Mark Perry, Matthew Robinson and James Allen broke away.

They were quickly joined by nine other riders including 2nd cat’ Danny Lowthorpe of Langsett Cycles and Elite rider Martin Ford of In Gear Quickvit Trainsharp. Working well as a group they stormed out into a unassailable lead, leaving the main bunch with nothing to ride for but training miles.

Unfortunately punctures and mechanicals put paid to the chances of several riders, but with one lap to go the lead group of 16 or so riders were still all together. Sportscovers Ashley Brown went for a long one going up the wind swept Normanton bypass, but the pack brought him back as they reached the summit.

Then, as they came down Pineapple Hill for the final time, with less than two miles to go Danny Lowthorpe jumped off the front and critically no one reacted to the move until it was too late. Showing fantastic form that belies his 2nd cat’ status he rode away from the lead group to take a comfortable and deserved win.

Event organiser John Wright of Wakefield Cycling Club would like to thank all the club members and their friends for marshalling, supporting and helping with the organisation of the race.

RESULT:

1, Danny Lowthorpe – Langsett Cycles RT
2, Ben Ives – We love Mountains RT
3, Martin Ford – In Gear Quickvit Trainsharp RT
4, Simon Wilson – Metaltek Scott
5, David Shackleton – Wilson Wheels RT
6, Jack Cutsforth – Herbalife/ Leisure lakes.com
7, Ashley Brown – Sportscover Altura RT
8, Craig Battersby – Team bGlobal
9, Alastair Kay – Herbalife/ Leisure lakes.com
10, William Brown – Blackhawkbikes
11, Mark Perry – Dirtwheels
12, Steve Gibson – Peak Road Club
13, James Baillie – Langsett Cycles RT
14, Julian Pearson – Vanillabikes. Com RT
15, Steve Abbott – Team Wallis CHH RT
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