Club kit order soon
A few members are interested in club kit. Since the last time we placed an order, Seight Sports have been bought out by, or merged with, Champion Systems. We’ll be asking for some samples of Champion System gear to be sent out for us to look at. If you’re interested in upgrading your club kit, or get some for the first time, please contact Bruce.
New calendar on club website
The club website has a new calendar. The format has completely changed, with a new MMBCC Events page and the next four upcoming events listed on the Home page.
Dobson dominates the dirt
It was great to see a small crew of hardy competitors braving a warmer night.
A slightly different variation on a mid-length course saw the riders attack the climb to the saddle and then finishing around the back and down Rubbish Run.
As usual staggered starts and various lap numbers made it difficult to predict however Ruby Dobson was fast and came in in first place. Steve Morgan stepped up into 2nd place only a few seconds after Ruby and Ariel Stava rounded out the podium in 3rd.
Here are the results.
Overall it has been a great first half of the season and thanks to all involved.
Get well soon John.
In case you always wondered whether the Handicapper had a heart, doctors at Royal Melbourne Hospital have now confirmed, despite rumours, that John actually does have one. It just hasn’t been working all that well lately.
Get well soon John. Looking forward to seeing you back on the bike soon.
Spring Classic Conditions for the iconic Coombesberg parcours
By AJ Stephenson
About 25 riders set out on a relatively short route, into strong winds with tight handicap times, particularly the last three groups to go. With less than 30 seconds between Block and Scratch optimism would be in short supply.
First group away Wil, Micala and Hunter worked together well in the testing cross winds to stay away until the turn onto the Whitfield Rd, going on to finish with the main group that had come through with Scratch. Group 2 consisting of Talia, Judi, Ian, Tim and Alex set off at three minutes.
The crosswinds caused echelons to form making it difficult for riders to find the sweet spot for a recovery, resulting in many groups losing wheels more quickly than usual. However, this group worked well together and when caught at the Col Du Coombesberg, were still altogether.
The next two groups leaving at 1-minute intervals were unable to stay together. Justin, Cam, AJ and Matilda (late starter) pushed hard on to Graves Rd. The fractured remains of the previous groups were passed allowing other groups to reform. Cam and AJ’s group also broke up, leaving Matilda and Justin on one of the rises before the Coombesberg. They had contributed some good turns up until then. Feeling like they were in with a chance Cam and AJ pushed on. At the summit of the Coombesberg the Alex and Co. group were caught and along Barwite Rd, Alex, Tim and Tahlia worked smoothly with Cam and AJ into the wind all the way to the finish.
Meanwhile at the business end of the race a similar story was unfolding. With a two-minute start on Scratch, Jarrod, Kody, Darren and Welcome Back Brega were away and riding quickly. Again, the testing conditions took their toll with Dazza losing the group prior to the Coombesberg. This group worked smoothly together and were only caught by Scratch on the Whitfield Rd, not far from town.
Meanwhile the Block group of Bruce, Dave, Lewis and Steve set forth with only 25 seconds on Steve and Josh. Predictably they were caught by the fast-moving duo, unfortunately at the expense of Steve, prior to the main climb. Next to go was Steve from the Block group when they were caught on the main climb. Not a great place to be caught by Josh Van Aert, considering he was averaging 40km/h for the 8km from Graves Road to Barwite Road with Bruce and Dave also posting personal fastest times for this section. This group then stayed together sweeping up almost everyone in their path with Josh recording the fastest time for the night.
However, despite a great ride by these late starters the race was taken by those off much earlier. AJ crossing the line first with a small gap back to Cam who was DQ’s (due to a technical breach). Second and third went to Alex and Talia respectively. Josh finished 4th less than 30 seconds behind the winner. Eight riders finishing within a minute of third with the remainder of the field coming in over the next two minutes showing an accurate night for the handicapper. (Speaking of the Handicapper, get well soon John!)
Many thanks to our officials and marshals, to Tony Copland for the pics and here are the results.
That’s it for MMBCC road racing for 2019. After a short break, the 2019/20 season will recommence on Thursday 16 January with the Rob Curtis Memorial Hillclimb. Until then, Merry Christmas and safe and happy pedalling.
Bike Buller calling for volunteers
Rapid Ascent, the Bike Buller MTB Festival organiser is seeking volunteers to help at the event.
Event Date; 7th – 8th March 2020
Location; Mt Buller and surrounds
Rapid Ascent are happy to make a donation to your club/group/organisation based on how many volunteers your group provides. We will pay $50/half day or $100/full day per person. There is no minimum or maximum number of people required
Roles: We have a variety of roles/tasks ranging from course marshalling, manning water/fruit points, competitor registration and administration roles, logistics, competitor services etc.
This is a great opportunity for clubs/groups to raise funds with no behind the scenes work or pre-planning. Turn up with your members and your group receives the money. This is also a great chance for groups/clubs to have a fun weekend or day out with your mates while helping other to have a fun weekend.
Volunteers receive an event T-shirt and lunch.
For further information please phone John Jacoby on 0408 035 261 or email him.