Sunday 22nd June saw a damp, breezy morning turn into a sun-soaked and draughty day. Not-so ideal for a conditions for a challenging road race based around the undulating lanes near Windlesham, but it made for a great days racing. Race Organiser Lisa West from Twickenham CC and her energetic team of helpers were up at the crack of dawn to ensure that the day went smoothly, and with all last minute preparations taken care of, the race was ready.
33 Starters took the pre-race briefing from Chief Commissaire Doug Collins, and tentatively began the 1st of 10 laps of the "big" loop, followed by a further 3 laps of the smaller finishing circuit. Things livened-up on Lap 3 where Team Points, and more motivationally CASH was on offer for the first of the 3 Primes on the brow of Valley Wood Hill. The first prize of £25 for each Prime, kindly Sponsored by Angelo's Italian Restaurant, was pocketed by Jo Munden of the strong Surrey League squad.
Small gaps appeared, then where re-coiled, until on Lap 6, with the energy-sapping drags, and a further Prime prize on offer, a select group of 6 riders incorporating Rachel Osborn, Dorothea Cockerell, Rebecca Curley, Sarah Cramoysan, Jeanette Caldicott, and Joanne McRae made the break after an attack from Osborn - who duly collected the £25. The break rode well together, and never looked back as they stretched the gap to almost 4 minutes, with the 3rd and final Prime prize going to Rebecca Curley.
As the Kilo to Go sign came into view, Dorchie Cockerell attacked the group hard and got away from all bar one. That one being the West Midlands' Rachel Osborn who came around the Twickenham rider in the final 100m to claim a well deserved victory.
This eventful and exciting race was well-appreciated by the competitors and spectators alike, which made the weeks of stress and planning worthwhile for the organisation team !
For more information regarding the Women's National Team Series please visit the Team Series website.
