Oz Day Update

Lots to catch up on this week:
- Wrap-up of VDHS weekend;
- Club kit sales open again;
- First road race report of 2017;
- Ride with Phil Liggett;
- More volunteers wanted;
- Dirt Crit dates; and more!

Have you subscribed yet? Right hand side of club home page put in your email address and awaaaaay you go!

Daniel Friday took this shot of Charlie Jones taking a shot of Matt Empey taking the new road gap during his race run on Sunday. 

Huge Thank You

The dust has settled on a big weekend up the big hill.
202 riders kept it mostly rubber side down for round 4 of the Victorian DownHill Series. Thanks to all MMBCC members who volunteered time to course set (in the rain again!), help park cars and occupy marshal points over the weekend. Without you there would be no race.
Thank you all.
An especially big thank you to Ben Annear for all his hard work!
And congratulations to club members Charlie Jones, first in Under 15s, and Matt Empey, 6th in Under 17s, for great results.
Here are some photos on Facebook thanks to LR Productions.

Club kit sales open again

Seight Custom Clothing will open the My Team Shop again for MMBCC team kit this coming Friday, 27 January. It will be opened for orders until Wednesday 8 February. Use this link to order your preferred items. Email Bruce for the password you need.
Mountain bikers, please note that the short sleeve, 3/4 sleeve and long sleeve trail mtb jerseys have all been reduced in price - so get in now!

2017 Road Racing Underway

For the first race of 2017, the Cycling Club chose a short course of 20 km, starting at the BP Roadhouse and touring the Barwite Loop in an anticlockwise direction.
Some of the big names and big frames of the Club were spectating in Adelaide at the Tour Down Under and may regret missing precious points in the local championship.
Kieren Payne was first to start followed three minutes later by Kat McKean from Timbertop, our own Dr Flew and Gretchen Nadenbousch. Gretchen was returning to the bike after 10 years off and faced a tough night.
The well-seasoned Ian Conrick was a minute behind with John Eisner and his Pharmacy at his disposal.
These three groups got together as they reached Coombes’ Hill but the climb soon split them.
The Handicapper must have assumed that the riders would be slow after indulging over Christmas but McKean proved him wrong by taking the lead and staying there until the finish. Payne did a good job to stay close behind and take second. Steve Flew also hung on well but after some early work for that bunch dropped away on the uphill turn into the Whitfield Road.
Meanwhile, midfielders Principal Tim Hall and Belinda Cipa teamed up for a strong ride leaving Will MacDonald and his Christmas Cheer on Coombes’ Hill.
Rob Skinner did not have time for a Health Inspection as he left the start with the second last group, away in company with Aaron Peterson, in excellent form, Christine Hopkins and a new member, Sam Foura from Timbertop.
Hopkins, jetlagged from her Samoan holiday, dropped away early. She and MacDonald had plenty of time for a chat as they ambled home.
The Scratch riders of Purcell, Halket, Bakker, and another new member Andrew Irwin, began last but on the backside of the Coombesberg began to reel in the other competitors. They picked up Foura, who seemed to lack a little form, as well as his cycling shoes, and by the Whitfield road a peloton of about nine riders formed. At speeds of over 50 km/h they cruised towards the Botanic Park.
The finish line was on the uphill straight opposite the Show Grounds and the rise tested everyone. The youthful Dan Purcell pipped Flew for third and the more senior Halket took fifth.
Here are the results.
There will be no race on Australia Day but the following Thursday, the race starts at the Botanic Park at 5.30 for 6 pm. Text entries to Eisner on 0428 503 437 by 8pm Wednesday night.
Images below with many thanks to Tony Copland.

Ride with Phil Liggett

Phil Liggett has confirmed he will join Benalla and district riders for a ride before the start of Stage 3 of the 2017 Herald-Sun Tour on Saturday 4 February.
Entry fee for the ride will be $25 with all funds raised being donated to Motor Neuron Disease research.
Numbers will be limited so get entry in early!
Ride with Phil will start at 7.15am and finish at 9.15am. There's also a shorter 20km with former Australian Time Trial Champion and one time regular MMBCC road race entrant, Flick Wardlaw.
Chance to see H-S Tour riders (Froome/Chaves/Gerrans doing warm up 9.30am-10.30am). Stage 3 starts in Benalla at 10.30am.
Controlled bunch ride with support vehicles averaging approx 25km/h for a distance of 48kms. Cyclists will need to be able to keep with group as we will have to be back on time for Phil to meet his commitments.
Download an entry form here. Print it out, fill it out and either scan it and email it to Col Tattersall as it says on the form, or take it with you with $25.

Bike Buller Volunteers Needed

RAISE MONEY FOR YOUR CLUB BY BEING A PART OF BIKE BULLER
The Bike Buller MTB Festival is a 3-day festival of mountain biking races and events.
Rapid Ascent Pty Ltd, the event organiser is seeking volunteers to help at the event.
Event Date; 11th – 13th March 2017
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 $90/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 contact;
John Jacoby on 0408 035 261 or john@rapidascent.com.au

Dirt Crits start again...

Dirt Crits start again for Seniors on Monday 30 January. Juniors kick off for 2017 a week later, Monday 6 February.

Road Bike for Sale

Whittlesea Challenge coming up

Cycling Victoria has moved one of our favourite recreational rides, The Whittlesea Challenge,  back to Autumn after being in Spring in 2016. Mark Sunday 30 April in your calendar for a good day on the bike.

Finally...

Apparently a new coffee shop is opening in Mansfield, after a successful debut in Adelaide at the Tour Down Under last week.

Happy New Year!

Volunteers needed!

Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 January will again see the MMBCC host a round of the Victorian DownHill Series at Mt Buller. Yes... that's just a couple of weeks away! And just like last year's hugely successful weekend of racing, we need as many club members as possible to volunteer a few hours of their time to make the event tick over like clockwork.

• We will need a team of 15 to 20 volunteers each day
• All volunteers will receive a morning tea and lunch package each day
• Required from 8:30am Saturday for a 10:00am course opening, till 4:30pm course close
• Required from 7:00am Sunday for a 8:00am course opening,  till approximately 4:30pm race finish (subject to change)
• Volunteers will be required to fill two roles:
  - parking attendants
  - course marshals
• issued with a MMBCC club t-shirt (blue, matches your eyes! J) for the duration of the event
• all volunteers will need to make their own way to Mt Buller (or car pool, or ride!)
• there will be a volunteer meeting at the start of each day in the Mt Buller Cinema
• all volunteers get a warm, fuzzy feeling deep down inside because they are complete legends for helping out!

Please call or SMS Ben Annear on 0424 453 789 or send him an email to put your name on the list and make this a fantastic weekend again.

Thursday night Road Racing starts thu 19 Jan

Hot off the presses... we've finally received our road race permits from VicRoads. So the Police permit will hopefully follow shortly; then we're good to go!
Now is the time to check the calendar to see when you're rostered on for duty. Have a read of this page so you'll know what to do when you are rostered on.
Now is also the time to make sure you've renewed your Cycling Australia membership. If you haven't yet renewed, here's the link. Remember, it must be a RACE membership; Ride Basic, Ride + and Non-Riding won't cut it.
Please also remember to bring your CA membership card (or receipt) to the first few races of 2017 or you could be refused entry. (Harsh but fair.)

Thursday night first aid

Rider safety is one of the most important aspects of MMBCC events. A couple of changes which we're implementing for this year's road races includes making sure we have the new defibrillator in the right spot in case one of us needs it.
Another is nominating a first aider for each race. 
The club has organised three places in a first aid course on Tuesday 17 January. One has already been taken but there are still two left. It's not free but it's being offered at a much cheaper rate than usual.
If you're keen, please email Leonie to book your place.

Christmas News

This week:

• MMBCC hosting VDHS at Mt Buller;
• Final road race at Jamieson;
• The Delatite Dash;
• Proposed road race calendar and duty roster; and
• What's On in January.

Victorian State Downhill Series round at Mt Buller

The club is again hosting a round of the state DH series on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 January. Please keep that weekend free as we'd love to have you involved! To put your hand up please call or SMS Ben Annear on 0424 453 789 or send him an email.
Remember, events like this and the Mansfield Tour are the fundraisers for our club, how we can afford to support the development of our juniors!

Jamieson Christmas Handicap - Thursday 15 December.

On a lovely, warm Thursday evening in Jamieson, 19 members of the Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club buckled up their helmets and clicked into their pedals in search of glory, fame and riches.
But none of those were available so we just raced our bikes for the fun of it instead.
Jamieson is a great venue for a road race, one of our favourites. The road to Sailor Bill’s Creek and back is 28 kilometres of gorgeous rolling roads along the Goulburn River, with lots of little undulations (no big steep hills) and lots of bends to hide from the group behind.
First off were the Limit group of Di Condie, Wil Wilson and David Jagger and they’d be joined after 8km by Kody Appleton who, due to age restrictions, can only race for 20km.
Next up was the 5.30 group of Belinda Cipa, Will MacDonald, Ian Conrick and Gus Muscara; the 4 minute group of Dave Moore, Anthony Plummer and Tim Hall; Block started at 1.30 and consisted of Jarrod Appleton, Rob Skinner, Tim Ross and Damian Grundy; and last to start was the Scratch group of Dan Purcell, Bruce Halket, Darren Bakker and Luke Olver.
Limit started strongly, taking smooth, fast turns and dividing the workload evenly. When Kody joined in with 20km to go, they continued to ride well.
Moore, Plummer and Hall looked the goods early when they caught the 5.30 group but while they had the numbers and the horsepower, they didn’t quite have the team work. Indicative was the look on Plummer’s face after doing a monster turn on the flat only to see MacDonald skip away up the next rise… not a happy plumber, aaah… electrician, er… Plummer.
Ross fell off the Block group after only a turn or two and, being unable to get onto Scratch when they came past, he settled into an anti-social session of individual time trial training. Perhaps the fast starts at 6am training rides don’t agree with him after all!
Scratch caught Block just after the Kevington Pub on the way home and then the larger group at about the 24km mark. Then Purcell attacked! After a little brain explosion, thinking the finish was just around the corner, he launched off the front and… got caught again after a kilometre. What an anti-climax.
Meanwhile Limit kept working away. Wilson tried to break up the group a few times as they neared Jamieson but Condie stayed patient and blasted past to take her second win of the season. Wil hung on for second ahead of Jagger and Appleton junior.
Appleton senior won the sprint from the main bunch to take fifth (and revenge for a few weeks ago) from Halket (who still managed to ride fastest time) ahead of Purcell, Olver, Bakker and MacDonald in tenth. Results can be found here.
Many thanks to our volunteer marshals and officials, including Leonie, Margaretanne, Dave, Allan and Aaron. Many thanks also to the crew at the Courthouse Hotel in Jamieson for the Christmas break-up feast.
Over the Christmas holidays there’ll be a holiday from racing too, with the first race due to be held on the Barwite Loop on Thursday 19 January. Check this page for the proposed calendar. It will be confirmed and completed with the duty roster once the VicRoads and Police permits come through.
Till then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all Mansfield motorists for sharing the roads with us and to MMBCC members of all varieties… roadies, BMXers and mountain bikers.
Ho, ho, ho!

Delatite Dash - Monday 12 December

The Delatite Dash was the final event of the season, with fourteen riders taking on the challenge in the senior event.
The format was completing the same section of the Epic trail from Carters Rd to Mirimbah twice, with the winner being the rider with the smallest margin between their first and second laps.
The riders were led of by Mark Raymond in 20 second intervals with Jason sending them off and Ben Annear recording their finishing time.
Fastest first lappers were Mark 8:05, Lee 8:31 and Dan F (Snr) 8:41. Jo O'Shaughnessy, a visiting rider, was fastest female in 10:01, followed by Elise 11:18 and Bella 12:31.
The riders then returned via the road for their second lap.
Mark negative splitted his second lap by 1 second to take the overall win. He also took out fastest time with a combined time of 16:09 - a fantastic effort!
Dan F (Snr) was equal second with Rachael, both having a 6 second negative split. Lee and Jo finished in equal third, both with an 8 second negative split.
There were a few mechanicals had out on the course which impacted on Mike’s and Brett’s times.
It was great to see the junior riders so competitive over the shorter course, such as James Griffin, who was only one of 7 riders that completed their second lap in 10 minutes or less - great work James!
Here are the full results.
Afterwards, Damian had booked us in for a meal at the Hunt Club Hotel, Merrijig.
There’ll be a break now over Christmas and New Year, with the season beginning again on Monday 30th January for Seniors.
Have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Dirt Critters Delatite Dash

Dirt Critters ready for a start to the Delatite Dash at Carters Road.

Kate and Clarissa take a breath after "herding the cats!"

Proposed road race calendar for early 2017

The proposed January to May road race calendar has been published - click here. It's only proposed at the moment as we're still waiting on VicRoads and Police permits.
There are a few new courses and races including six Sunday morning races (these won't be part of the Summer Series points scores but stand alone series) with three of them hill climbs and three of them including some dirt!
And the Bakker Plumbing Handicap is back!
Please have a close look through the calendar as it includes the duty roster. Remember that if you find yourself rostered onto a date which you're not able to attend, it's your responsibility to find a replacement.

Also coming up in January

Road races are due to start again on Thursday 19 January. Senior Dirt Crits on Monday 30 January. Dirt Critters to be confirmed.
In the meantime, there's a bit on.
Road
Roads Nats at Buninyong from 4-8 January; and
Tour Down Under in Adelaide from 14-22 January.
Mountain Bike
National XC Series rounds 1 and 2, Orange, NSW, 7-8 January;
National DH Series round 1, Awaba, NSW, 13-15 January;
Victorian Downhill Series round 4 at Mt Buller, 21-22 January;
National XC Series rounds 3 and 4, Armidale, NSW, 28-29 January;

Finally...

Having mechanical issues with your bike? This is for you.

Sunday update to the Saturday update

Dirt Crits Race Report - Mon 5 Dec

The tracks were in good condition after the recent rainfall that we’d had. Thirteen riders competed in the Irish Handicap with a slightly longer course which included a climb up the fire road near the start line.
The handicapper, Jason, put himself off first and quickly realised that he had made a fatal mistake once he saw Damian hunting him down quickly.
James, Dan F (Junior), Bruce and newcomer Michael, headed off on 2 mins with James completing 3 laps and the other two 4 laps. Dan had a flat tyre so DNF’d unfortunately.
Dave, Mike and Adam headed off for 3 laps on a 5 minute handicap. Adam suffered a mechanical so was unable to complete the race.
Jem head off after 6½ mins followed by Bella and Elise.
It was soon clear that Damian was having a good crack at it, trying to stay out of sight of Bruce and Michael, who were riding well as a pair. Dave reported that Mike was leaving him on the downhills but he was able to make some ground on the uphills.
Bella finished in first place in a time of 31.50 and is definitely fit enough to move up to 3 laps now. Elise missed her handicap start time, so rode with Bella. James Griffin was 2nd in 30.20 and will need to go back 2 minutes next time - well done James!
Somehow, Jem was overlooked in the results, but actually took out 3rd place in 34.20 - sorry Jem. Damian, 34.45, held off a fast finishing Bruce 34.50 and Michael came in 6 seconds later. Mike ended up pulling away from Dave in a time of 35.40 with Dave finishing his 3 laps 44 seconds later. Jason swept the course with a forgettable finishing time...
Thanks to Damian Grundy for setting out the course, to Daniella Friday for recording the results and to Alex Green for providing the encouraging words and great photographs.
The final senior event for the season, ‘The Delatite Dash’, will be held on Monday 12th December. The event starts at Carters Rd and ends at Mirimbah.
Junior Dirt Critters wishing to travel in the ATC bus with bike trailer are to meet at the Botanical Gardens at 4pm. Please RSVP via email to reserve your spot. I’m sure that Clarissa would appreciate a hand from any of the senior riders being able to load bikes and/or to help out prior to the senior races.
Practice and registration will be at Carters Rd for the seniors from 5pm to 5:50pm, with racing at 6pm sharp. Riders will complete two laps of the course with the winner being the rider with the smallest difference between their first and second lap - last year Dan Friday (Snr) was the winner with a 1 second difference!
Presentation and optional end of year celebratory meal will take place at the Hunt Club Hotel, Merrijig, immediately afterwards.
Please send an SMS to Damian on 0411 045 771 if you are planning to be there for the race and meal after.
Below is the Points Table for the first half of the season.

Image credit: Alex Green.

Dirt Crits Points Table

1.   Daniel Friday (Snr)   223
2.   Mike Davies              201
3.   Matty Empey            190
4.   James Griffin            183
5.   Dave Bock                 176
6.   Bella Green               138
6.   Daniel Friday (Jnr)   138
8.   Jem Davies               130
9.   David Jagger            127
10.  Bruce Halket            126
11.   Brett Stevens            115
12.  Rachael Grundy        114
13.  Elise Empey              110
14.  Anthony Plummer     97
15.  Ollie MacDonald        90
16.  Zach Empey               89
17.  Will MacDonald          75
18.  Damian Grundy          69
19.  Jason Parker               66
20. Mike Fischer               50
21.  Adam Baker                47
22.  Mark Raymond           42
23.  Kevin Gannon             40
23.  Jarrod Appleton         40
26. Warwick Bottrall          39
25. Cameron Dobson         35
26. Charlie Jones               28
27.  Ruby Dobson               26
28.  Ethan Lee                    22
30. Tom MacMunn              12
31.  Lee Noble                      9

Saturday Update

MMBCC Dirt Crits - Delatite Dash, Monday 12 December.

Just a reminder that Monday's Dirt Crits is the Delatite Dash, starting at Carters Road Mirimbah.
Practice and Registration 5pm to 5.50pm, racing at 6pm sharp.
Most consistent two run times will win.
Presentations and optional end of year celebratory meal will take place at the Hunt Club Hotel Merrijig immediately afterwards.
Please send an SMS to Damian on 0411 045 771 if you are planning to be there for the race and meal after.
Hope to see as many of you there as possible :)

Final road race of 2016 this Thursday - loads o' cash!

The club will kick in a bit of extra cash this coming Thursday to celebrate a terrific first half of the road season.
We'll be paying down to at least fifth... even further depending on entries.
As usual, please enter via SMS to John on 0428 503 437 by 8pm Wednesday.
But for this week, please also SMS Darren on 0417 580 751, by Tuesday, if you'd like to stay in Jamieson for presentations and dinner at The Courthouse Hotel afterwards.

Alain Guerin Memorial Trophy handover

Here's a pic we meant to publish last week showing Dean Belle of The Delatite Hotel accepting the annual Alain Guerin Memorial Trophy from Club Prez Craig Wilson. The trophy will now live in the Saddles Bar, our 'club rooms'.

Two final things...

One. As well as the usual Sunday morning 8am bunch ride from the Botanic Park, there'll also be a ride leaving tomorrow at 7am for Buller and back.
See you there!

Two. If you had a coffee or two at the Coffee Merchant this morning after the 8am bunch ride, are you sure you paid for it? Some of you didn't and Di Condie paid the unpaid, not insignificant, portion of the bill.
Some of you owe Di big time!

Friday News

Final Dirt Crit of 2016 - the famous and eagerly anticipated Delatite Dash

Location: Carters Road Sawmill Settlement. Racing on the river trail section of the Mt Buller Epic trail.
5.00pm to 5.50pm: Registration and practise
6.00pm SHARP: Racing starts
Format: Riders will complete 2 timed runs from Carter’s Rd to Mirimbah on the river trail.
Categories:   ·       Overall winner – Rider with the most consistent times over 2 runs
                      ·       Fastest Male
                      ·       Fastest Female
HUGE PRIZES!
The evening will wrap up with presentations and meal (optional) at the Hunt Club Hotel Merrijig. Please join us to celebrate the year.
In order to assist in planning could riders please let Damian (0411 045 771) know via sms of their intention to compete.
Thanks and see you out there.

Team Time Trial - Thursday 8 December

Here's a few pics taken by Tony Copland of last night's Team Time Trial.

Write-up will get published when we get it. Results here.

Update to the Weekend Update

Handicap Road Race, Thursday 1 December

by B. Geste

On an evening that the Bureau of Meteorology forecast as “Thunderstorms” for North East Victoria, 23 riders embarked on the long course, Whitfield Rd, Barwite Rd, Old Tolmie Rd and finishing on Graves Rd. Limit group of five riders set out 14 minutes ahead of Scratch rider Kian Lerch-MacKinnon (in his return to road racing this season) and if they could work together this group would be difficult to reel in.
Limit group was followed by a big group 7 minutes back, of Jason Parker, Will MacDonald, Jodie Batchelor, Janine Appleton, Ian Conrick, Mel Green, Gus Muscara and John Eisner.  A further 2 minutes back was Anthony Plummer and Dave Moore, who reportedly chased “Willy Mac” all night.
Jarrod Appleton Aaron Peterson, Tim Ross and Rob Skinner made up the next group and Block was made up of Bruce Halket, Mauro “Jock” Brega and Luke Olver.
At the turn around it was clear that Limit was indeed working well together but the general consensus was that they would be caught by the next group. Stoically sticking to their work, the Limit group were still ahead turning onto Barwite Road but the pace dropped off a bit and being caught was becoming a distinct possibility.
In what could be considered a brave move, if not stupid, Craig “Wil” Wilson launched a flyer off the front of the remainder of the limit group of Di Condie, David Bock, Steve Kurnow and Kieren Payne. With 8 km to race this was indeed an interesting choice.
Wil held the group at bay to the start of the Coomsberg. Still working hard he was surprised by Steve Kurnow who cruised up and past him near the summit of the Coomsberg... like a Camel in the Sahara!
Steve's gap increased to several hundred metres by the time Wil crested the rise and the chase was on in earnest, but the gap proved to be too small as Wil descended like brick from a building site, caught and passed Steve and time trialled to the finish and the win.
Wil attributed his win to his motto “Never waste momentum” a generous handicap (Thanks John) and a group that worked well.
Steve arrived in second place with David Bock third and Di Condie in 4th place and winner of the first unplaced female prize.
The main bunch arrived some time later with a vigorous sprint won by Anthony Plummer. Kian Lerch-Mackinnon had a very hard day at the office as did Tim Ross and fastest time was recorded by Bruce Halket with a time of 52:45. Results can be found here.
Thanks to all our volunteers and supporters. Next week is a Team Time Trial with the usual presentation at the Delatite Hotel from about 7pm. Come and join us for a rehydration session and check out the Alan Guerin Memorial Handicap trophy on display in the bar/clubroom.

Weekend Update

With the editor away for a few days over last weekend (riding trails in Derby, Tasmania and yes... it was brilliant!) there's a lot to catch up on. Sit yourself down and have a good read about all that's going on with the MMBCC.

Junior Dirt Crits Monday 21 November

Monday saw the second week of the new format for juniors. Although a hot night the Sprocket Rockets set off at 4pm ready to crack their times from their previous week, riding two laps of Bogans Beginnings and the newly named “Squiggle” into “Home Run”. All riders smashed their times from the previous week. Archie Hall was commended for staying on track this week. Josh Taylor was first taking a minute off his time, with Chloe Campbell and Thomas Day battling it out for 2nd and 3rd.
The Chain Gang then hit the track next also racing the same as previous week but with more laps. Times were varied possibly due to the wild weather that started mid race. Half of the riders improved on their previous times, with Nick Taylor and Sam Davies both improving by over two minutes. Finn Baker blitzed the field again this week, followed by Ethan Nealon and Charlie Hutchinson.
Finally, the Trail Blazers were set to also battle the wind and rain. They repeated last week’s format racing up “High Rise” and finishing down “The Ramp”. Charlie Hall showed no hesitation this week on The Ramp therefore taking two minutes off his previous time. Taycia Roche also showing a huge improvement with over two minutes off last weeks’ time for the four laps. The race winner was once again Kevin Gannon being chased down by Ned Hall and Zac Empey.
All riders were rewarded with icy poles this week due to the heat.
With two weeks to go before we break for the year there are a few dates to remember:
5 December: Skills and games night at Botanical Gardens starting 4:30pm for everyone, we will need extra hands on deck so if you are available, let us know.
12 December: Delatite Dash break up, ride from Carters Road to Mirimbah. The littlies will need an escort and we will also be able to transport 18 kids and their bikes in the ATC bus and trailer; thanks Shannon. We will need RSVPs for this one.
30 January: First night back after School Holidays.
Finally check out the new jerseys we are doing!
We really want to keep costs low so $20 each is just below what it will cost to produce them. $20 for the first jersey and $15 for any orders after that!
Please email back your sizes and quantities, payment of cash is due by Monday 12 December.
Let us know if you have any questions.
See you Monday at the Botanic Park!

Road Race report - Thursday 24 November

Another solid field of 30 cyclists rolled up for the second tour of the season of Howes Creek last Thursday.
In a gusty headwind Bella MacMunn headed off first with Di Condie, David Bock and Steve Kurnow off next with Kody Appleton joining them at the 20k mark. Grinding down a six and a half minute gap was the smooth turning group of Craig Wilson, Gus Muscara, Steve Flew, Janine Appleton, Ian Conrick and John Eisner. Allan Gerrans, Will MacDonald, Mel Green and Jason Parker were off next only a minute behind with Tim Hall, Dave Moore, Anthony Plummer and Damian Grundy chasing them. Tim Ross had the pleasure of joining Jarrod Appleton, Aaron Peterson and Rob Skinner in the de facto block group while Dan Purcell, Luke Olver, Mauro Brega, Darren Bakker and Ross Hopkins made up the actual block group. For his sins, Josh Hopwood started off last into the same gusty headwind and a big ask of a minute to gap.
Steve was the first on a list of “being dropped” casualties for the night, finding the long haul at the 5k mark rather tricky with less race experience so far this year. Despite the aforementioned smoothness, the Wilson bunch were somewhat surprised to find themselves caught at the turnaround by the merged Grundy/Green group and a surprise attack by Damian saw everyone put under pressure and the casualty list grow. By the caravan park there was only Damian, Janine, Anthony, Allan and John left.
Out the front however, Di, Kody, Steve and Bocky were working well together and overcoming last second handicapping trepidations, Di contested a well timed sprint to take out a good win over Steve Kurnow and Kody. Bocky was not far behind in fourth and in a great solo effort, Bella powered in for fifth.
Not far behind that the pressure was still on for minor points with Damian making a break up the last hill. This was countered by Anthony who had also done a heap of work out the front, and in a close finish Anthony got up for sixth with Allan cleverly hanging in for eighth and Janine ninth after a strong ride.
Thirty seconds later the remnants of Block and BlockBlock came in with Dan Purcell recording the fastest time of the night.
Thanks again to our crew of volunteers and the Delatite Hotel for hosting the subsequent presentations. Results can be found here... although hopefully more details results are on the way.

Dirt Crits race report - Monday 28 November

With high levels of motivation and fearless attack the Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club mountain bikers took on two downhill runs of the Riflebutts Reserve trails.
Young and old, men, women, boys and girls all competed on the fun and challenging, but not too extreme, downhill courses.
Riders were put into teams of four and the times from the two runs were added together for a team result.
In the end it was the team Friday’s Funtastic Foursome comprising Dan Friday (the elder), Zac Empey (the youngest competitor), Dave Bock and James Griffin with a combined time of 36min 37sec winning the team’s overall ahead of Not the 4 Tenors comprising Ollie MacDonald, Jarrod Appleton, Kevin Gannon and Matt Empey with a time of 37min4sec and in third was the team of Girl’s Rule! No! Boys Rule! with Rachael Grundy, Mike Davies, Bella Green and Will MacDonald with a time of 37min30sec.
Fastest overall combined times individually in the Women was Rachael Grundy
And in the Men it was Dan Friday Senior.
Thanks all riders for turning out.
Full results are here.
Great to see some old/new faces.

Call for a 'hand' on Sunday

Is there a pair of MMBCC mountain bikers who might be able to ride with an adaptive MTB rider (off road hand cycle) Sunday morning at Mt Buller, for a few hours. Please call Ben on 0424 453 789 if you can assist.

Almost there...

A couple of little videos to keep you entertained. Firstly, how to ride up a hill if you have a problem with your front wheel and the team car is too far back, then one on how to make sure you get noticed by drivers.

Finally...

Pics and report on Thursday 1 December's road race to come soon. And get well soon Jodie.

Plus... good luck to Josh at the Tour of Bright this weekend.

Midweek update - update

The Dirt Crits details DID arrive!

Monday 14 November 2016 - View of a race from within the race.

It was an excellent turn out for the MMBCC Dirt Crits at Riflebutts Reserve on Monday night.
A couple of new faces and many of the usual suspects pitted themselves against the course and the other competitors. Ages within the field ranged from 10 years young to well over 50 years old.
The race format is called an Irish Handicap: this format sees riders handicapped both by time and by lap numbers. Basically everyone is in the same race, the numbers of laps are set to suit the individual abilities and everyone has a chance to win… well except for me (attention Mr Handicapper!!!)
After a hard fought race wherein, from my perspective, far too many people caught and passed me and I caught and passed far too few other riders, it was one of the youngsters ‘the junior’ Dan Friday who triumphed overall after his 2 laps followed in by Bella Green in 2nd place, also completing 2 laps and Cam Dobson rounding out the podium in 3rd after his 3 laps. A mere 30 seconds separated the three major placegetters after 28mins of racing.
Special mentions go to

• Fastest on course, a new face to Dirt Crits this week, Mark Raymond with his scintillating 4 laps at an average of 6 min 20 sec per lap
• Youngest competitor Zachary Empey for his excellent 2 laps
• And the Sheer determination and commitment award to Anthony Plummer for turning out 3 laps in this race after a hugely tough weekend of racing at the Thule Bright 24hour race in Bright.

Mansfield Mount Buller Cycling Club Dirt Crits happen every Monday night at Riflebutts Reserve Starting at 4pm for juniors and then 5.45pm for seniors.
Please feel free to call Damian Grundy 0411 045 771 for information on the seniors racing or Kate Stonnell 0438 098 594 for the junior races.
Everyone is welcome. Coaching and loan bikes can be provided for first timers.

P.S. I have unilaterally determined that we will have a DH Team night next Monday.
 
Riders will be placed into teams of 4.
Once all entries have been accepted then the riders names will be placed into 4 groups of A, B, C and D grades. The teams of 4 will then be drawn, one name from each grade. Some Pre selections of riders for teams may occur.
Riders will compete one run on each of 2 courses. The final team time will be made up of the best 7 run times (ie the team can eliminate their slowest run time).
Separate awards will also be made for best male time, best female time and best U15 time male and female.

Midweek update - BMX, Junior Dirt Crits & win a holiday!

Adam Baker reports on the Vic BMX Titles at Shepparton last weekend.

Finn and I raced at the state title this weekend. finn racing 8 Boys and myself racing 40-44 Cruiser and 20-inch.
Saturday - 40-44 Mens Cruiser. I rode well all day placing 5, 3, 3 in the motos and qualifying 7th for the final. After a a great start and hectic first straight i settled in to 6th on track to make a few small mistakes and get pipped on the line by .01 sec to finish 7th. I now get to wear 7v for the next 12 months as my race number!
Sunday - 8 boys. Finn stepped up from Novice to race Expert, missing the semis by 4 points and riding with some gun riders in the field from across Australia (it was more like a national field than a state one!)
40-44 mens 20” - rode well in a big field (1 world champ and a few national age champs in the mix) riding 4, 2, 3, in the motos to qualify for semis in eighth. A poor gate saw me battle for fourth and just miss out on a finals berth, finishing ninth overall.
Meanwhile, Hayden Fletcher is currently driving across the states, to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to race The Grands next weekend, driving through some challenging conditions (1-2 feet of snow on the interstate!)
The Grands will be streamed live next weekend - use this link.
(Many thanks to Shred Crash Repeat BMX Shots for the images.)

Junior Dirt Crits – Monday 21 Nov

Monday saw the second week of the new format for juniors. Although a hot night the sprocket rockets set off at 4pm ready to crack their times from their previous week, riding two laps of Bogons Beginnings and the newly named “squiggle” into “home run”. All riders smashed their times from the previous week. Archie Hall was commended for staying on track this week. Josh Taylor was firsttaking a minute off his time, with Chloe Campbell and Thomas Day battling it out for 2nd and 3rd.
The Chain Gang then hit the track next also racing the same as previous week but with more laps. Times were varied possibly due to the wild weather that started mid race. Half of the riders improved on their previous times, with Nick Taylor and Sam Davies both improving by over two minutes. Finn baker blitzed the field again this week, followed by Ethan Nealon and Charlie Hutchinson.
Finally, the Trail Blazers were set to also battle the wind and rain. They repeated last week’s format racing up “High rise” and finishing down “the ramp”. Charlie Hall showed no hesitation this week on the ramp therefore taking 2 minutes off his previous time. Taycia Roche also showing a huge improvement with over 2 minutes off last weeks’ time for the four laps. The race winner was once again Kevin Gannon being chased down by Ned Hall and Zac Empey.
All riders were rewarded with icy poles this week due to the heat.

Tourism North East mountain bike survey

Quantum Market Research is conducting a study on behalf of Tourism North East and the mountain biking community of north east Victoria. This is an important study that seeks to better understand participation and attitudes towards various sporting activities.
The survey takes around 15 minutes to complete and we’d really appreciate your involvement.
To thank you for completing this survey, you will be given an opportunity at the end to enter our competition to win two nights' weekend accommodation at The Whitt - Bike Club of Victoria (Mt Buller), including dinner for two for a total prize value of $340.   
To begin the survey click here. Here you will also find a link to the competition terms and conditions.
Thanks again, we appreciate your time in completing the survey.

Finally, don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter by email...

Sunday update

Junior Dirt Crits - Monday 14 November

What a great night Monday was!
The new format worked beautifully (Kate and I are loving it) and it looked like the kids all had fun. A great big THANK YOU for everyone reading their emails.
We started off with the Sprocket Rockets at 4pm. There was some great riding including a couple of spills. Ben Ross was a little trooper after his tumble, he brushed himself off and kept going, well done!
Chloe Campbell rode beautifully with her confidence brimming leading the crew home in 1st followed by Thomas Day and Josh Taylor.
Mahalia Roche, determined as always, came in 4th but watch out next week, she has a new bike with gears! We might need some armour for her!
The Chain Gang was on the go next at 4:30, most of this crew stuck out four big laps of Bogans Beginnings so it will be great to see how they go next week with their times. We may even start a handicap!
Charlie Hall smashed it when he mastered the ramp on his fourth lap. Taz Leatham also pulled out all the stops this week and finished, stacks and all. Finn Baker hooned through the course and came home 1st followed by Madison Smith and Ethan Nealon.
The Trail Blazers all powered through their bigger loop four times with Kevin Gannon coming in 1st followed by Zac Empey and Max Campbell. Also a great effort by Charlie Dobson who had a mechanical breakdown on his third lap but managed to swap bikes and still finish in 4th. Thanks for lending him your bike Selina!
We are really proud of how all the kids conduct themselves. They look out for each other, aren’t afraid to have a go and are respectful. Great job mums and dads!
Keep in mind the 12th of December will be the Delatite Dash. We may need parents to shuttle bikes and kids as the trailer cannot hold 40 bikes. We will also have another skills night, perhaps at Botanic Park, but we will keep you in the loop when we get the date for that one.
Just quietly we’ve also got a kids Dirt Critters Jersey in the pipeline! (bit excited) Stay tuned for more details on that one…
Don’t forget to bring a drink bottle to keep hydrated as the weather warms up!
See you next Monday.
Cheers,
Clarissa & Kate.

The Coombesberg - Thursday 17 November

In the seventh race of the Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club Spring-Summer road series, 25 riders showed up to enjoy the spring sunshine and tackle the 29km course. From the Botanic Park, all riders (minus Darren Bakker who forgot his rear light) headed out the Whitfield road to Sawpit Gully Road, before turning around heading to the finish line positioned atop the famous summit of Coombes 'The Coombesberg' Hill.
Bella Macmunn kicked off proceedings, 22 minutes before the lone Scratch rider in "Juggernaut" Josh Hopwood - who, just quietly, is in pretty good form. With all racers on the road and working hard, the group of Jarrod Appleton, Tom Macmunn and Aaron Peterson merged with the swift riding Bruce Halket, Mauro Brega and Luke Olver somewhere near the tomato farm. This group would later come oh so close to sweet, sweet victory.
Just up the road, Tim Ross, Dave Moore, Anthony Plummer, Damian Grundy and Rob Skinner were plowing through the rest of the field. Grundy was unlucky to have a mechanical and drop out, while the others kept it tight up until Barwite Road.
Meanwhile the juggernaut had caught Dan Purcell who was off Block. Mirroring last week’s race, Purcell then proceeded to stare at the back wheel of Hopwood for the best part of 20kms.
At the base of The Coombesberg and the action end of the race, only Skinner and Ross were left out front, while the merged Brega/Appleton group powered up the hill behind them. Halket hit the hill and halted, while Peterson and Appleton accelerated and left the rest behind.
But in the end, nobody knows The Coombesberg like Tim Ross, who powered to victory just a couple lengths clear of Rob Skinner. Agonisingly close behind, Peterson took third, Appleton fourth, and Gus Muscara rounded out the top five. Janine Appleton had a great ride to place sixth, and win first unplaced female.
The “Juggernaut” had the fastest time overall.
Kudos to all the volunteers who made the race possible. Here are the results.
The Spring-Summer series heads to Howes Creek Road next week. Remember, race entries to John Eisner by 8pm the night before. And Darren, remember your light!
Finally, the entire MMBCC would like to wish Rod Manning a speedy recovery following his cardiac scare last week. Take it easy, mate.

Many thanks to Tony Copland for the photos of this week's road race. They include: 1. The 8-minute group on the way out and Bocky obviously needs to do his laundry; 2. the 6.30 group, Allan Gerrans leads Will MacDonald;
3. the 4-minute group with Damian off the back and Tim showing off his new helmet; 4. Rob Skinner looking stylish; 5. proof that Dan actually did do a turn once Josh caught him; 6. the 8-minute group on the way back;
7. Tim Ross goes to the front; 8. Tom Macmunn leading the chasers; 9. Dan looking a bit shocked that he was sprung following Josh; and 10. Tim leads the top 5 to the finish. 

Club storage shed

With many thanks to David Jagger, Tim Hall, Will MacDonald, Jason Parker, Damian Grundy and Bruce Halket, the club's loan bikes are now safely tucked away inside a shipping container, in town. We'll shortly install hanging racks for the bikes, plus put in the Time Trial start ramp and make space for the race trailer for its winter hibernation.
Thanks for organising the container Dave and thanks to the others for 'the move'.

Winery Ride

Fun day today (Sunday) for a few members of the club over at the GreenEDGE Winery Ride. Many of the team were on the ride and we got the chance to ride with Simon for quite a bit. Plus Bruce's highlight was riding 25 of the last 30km with Paris Roubaix winner Matt Hayman!
Mind you, they make you work hard for a post-ride smoothie!

Next club kit order

If you're interested in some of the new club kit, as shown so resplendently above, please contact Bruce via email. If we can get enough for a new order, we'll get Seight to start one soon.

White Ribbon Day

Finally, here's a good cause we should all support, this Friday...

Alain Guerin Memorial Handicap

It’s two years since Alain Guerin was taken from us in an incident on the Buller Road. In Alain’s name, we now hold a memorial race each November to remember our friend and celebrate his life. Last year, on the first anniversary, we had to cancel due to a thunderstorm. So this year it was great to finally put a name on the Alain Guerin Memorial Race trophy… and more than just a little fitting that it was one of Alain’s sons!
Bella Macmunn was first away from Dead Horse Lane. On her own as the Limit group, she was chased by another 30 riders, culminating in Josh Hopwood as the lone Scratch rider, starting 17 minutes later. They would all head out along the Midland Highway, almost to the ‘Link’ before returning to the finish line at the Racecourse front gate.
At about one-quarter distance, a peloton formed when the 1.15 group comprising Laurent Guerin, Mauro Brega, Darren Bakker, Ross Hopkins, James Black and Bruce Halket caught the 1.45 group of Jean-Daniel Guerin, Damon de Angelis and Tom Macmunn.
As this large group plowed its way through the field, the only ones able to hang on were Dave Moore from the 3.30 group and Belinda Cipa from the 4.30 group. Even Hopwood off Scratch and Dan Purcell off Block couldn’t get on the train.
As the leaders accelerated down Carlisle Hill it was the Hometec boys who’s strategy proved strongest. Jean-Daniel kicked at the perfect time and despite the best efforts of Bakker, Halket and Macmunn, Guerin was the clear winner, in a time of 55.30 (corrected to 40.15).
Fourth home was de Angelis ahead of Brega, Hopkins, Moore and Laurent Guerin. The top ten was rounded out, just 20 seconds later, by Josh Hopwood with the fastest time of 38.50. Belinda Cipa finished next and was awarded first unplaced female.
The race was followed by a ride out along the Buller Road to Alain’s ‘ghost bike’ to pay homage… a beautiful sunset made the evening even more special.
Presentations were held at the Delatite ‘clubrooms’ once we all got back and the newly engraved trophy will take its new position on the clubroom wall.
Many, many thanks from the club to all the drivers along the Midland Highway and the Buller Road on Thursday night who showed great patience while being slightly delayed by our groups of bike riders. We really appreciate that Mansfield drivers are so respectful of other road users. On such a poignant evening as Alain’s race, it was a great relief to feel safe on our local roads.
Many thanks also to our officials and volunteers including Jenni, Leonie, Tilly, Margaretanne, Allan, Alex, Gus and Tony amongst others.
Here are the results, which include a current list of the series leaders.
The MMBCC’s Summer Series continues on Thursday 17 November with a Handicap Race along Whitfield Road, starting at the Botanic Park, but finishing on top of the dreaded Coombesberg! Please don’t forget that entries need to be registered via SMS on 0428 503 437 by 8pm Wednesday.

Wednesday update

Senior Dirt Crits, Monday 7 November

Fifteen seniors, and one ring in Junior, competed at Dirt Crits in changing weather conditions.
The handicapper and master course setter, Damian, led off the field on his way to completing 4 laps (it seemed like something fishy was up right from the get go).
Ben Grundy kindly kept the race starter under cover with his umbrella as the rain started to fall.
The rest of the field set off to completed between 2 and 4 laps.
The starter was feeling guilty for making Elise Empey and James Griffin wait for so long, as some of the riders had come through after completing their first lap, so set them off early - big mistake!
The majority of riders were heading in a clockwise direction over the course, except for a white shirted rider who was riding clockwise, but on another course!
Dan Friday (Jnr) led the field home in a time of 26.15. Just over a minute later Elise Empey sprinted to the line in 2nd (27.19) and James Griffin took out 3rd place in 27.23 - told you it was a mistake to send those two off early! Here are the results.
Everyone seemed pretty happy with the course and a few were caught out by the short uphill pinch.
We look forward to seeing everyone next Monday night 5:45pm registration for a 6:00pm start - newcomers are welcome.
Great to see so many Juniors at 4:30 too - 41 this week! Look out for updates as with so many kids we might need to look at age group racing. More soon...

Handicap Road Race, Thursday 3 November.

Another large field of cyclists fronted up last Thursday for the new and challenging Howes Creek Variation course. Starting at the Lords Ground, nine groups set off on the 25km handicapped course, turning at the end of McMillan Point Drive and finishing in a tough hillclimb up O’Hanlons Rd.
Rob Skinner, Dave Moore, Tim Ross, Anthony Plummer and Peter Reaburn dug in hard from the start and caught the larger group of Daniel Hall, Allan Gerrans, Will MacDonald, Mel Green, Tim Hall and Jodie Batchelor just before Burnt Creek who in turn had just caught the team of Janine Appleton, John Eisner, Gus Muscara and Ian Conrick. At the pointy end Josh Hopwood, riding alone with a 50 second gap, caught Bruce Halket, Mauro Brega, Darren Bakker and Dan Purcell just neat the turnaround who in turn were chasing Tom MacMunn, Luke Olver, Aaron Peterson and Jarrod Appleton.
Like last week, Anthony and Tim did a heap of strong work helping to keep the big bunch clear of the pursuants. Similarly, Bruce and Jock worked hard to see Dan fresh to jump on to the inevitable Hopwood juggernaut.
The rolling hills saw half the field blow up, drop off or suffer mechanicals and at the final bend there was only Daniel, Rob, Peter, Janine, Allan and John left to contest Halket’s cruel final 400 metres, or so they thought. With a big yell of “GO”, Tom encouraged Luke to start his attack and with a solid effort he surged past everyone to take out a great win over Daniel by “about half a tyre”. Just behind, Josh was also working up the last hill with Dan hot on his wheel looking decidedly under pressure. In a classic hill finish they overtook the rest of the bunch to place third and fourth. Rob, Peter and Janine hung on for the next spots with Jarrod doing well to work up to eighth place. Results here.
Thanks again to our volunteers and the residents of Howes Creek who drove with consideration. A big gathering at the Delatite Hotel followed for presentations and dissection of the race.

Cup weekend update

Be careful on the road this weekend!

Seeing as it's a holiday weekend, you need to remember that some drivers have their brain in neutral when away from home, as the driver of YUA-835 proves in this image. The image above is a still from a video Josh Hopwood shot - here's the link to the video on Facebook - on his Fly12 headlight/camera. The red lines are added by the camera and show very clearly that the driver gets too close.
If you see this Nissan driver... steer clear!
Speaking of road riding this weekend, there'll be a road ride leaving the Botanic Park at 8am on Cup Day as long as the weather plays along. And a reminder that there are no Dirt Crits this week.

Senior Dirt Crits Race 3 - 24 October 2016

It was amazing to arrive for the Senior event and see many smiling faces at the Junior event, and many of them brand new faces.
An Irish Handicap was on the agenda for this week’s senior event at Dirt Crits. Jason had the timing down to the second as a bit of a trial. Ollie MacDonald led off the field followed by Adam Baker 23 seconds later. Will MacDonald rode off on 1min with Warwick Bottrall a further minute back. Damian Grundy, feigning lack of fitness, started off with Anthony Plummer on 2mins 25sec. on 2mins 59 was Ethan Lee, Jem Davies and Alex Green. Bruce Halket left the line at 5mins 54sec, a mere 3 seconds ahead of Matty Empey and Charlie Jones. David Bock was off at 6mins 3 sec and Dan Friday (Snr) a further 32 seconds back. Brett Steven rode off at the 7mins 22sec mark and Mike Davies at the 7mins 36sec mark. Bella Green, James Griffin and Dan Friday all left on 8 mins.
It was great to see the race coming together, particularly on the last lap as the rabbits tried to stay away from the foxes! There were a few mechanicals and incidents which slowed down Anthony Plummer, Ethan Lee and Charlie Jones.
Of the 2 lappers, James Griffin was 1st in 20.08, Bella Green 2nd in 28.51 and Dan Friday (Jnr) rounded out the top 3 in 30.54
Damian Grundy came across the line first with the 3 or more lappers, followed closely by David Bock and Mike Davies rounded out the top 3.
There was a technical issue with the timer, so if you can see any errors with the timing or places, let me know and I’ll adjust the results - click here for results.
There’ll be a break over the Melbourne Cup long weekend and racing will resume on Monday 7th November.
Cheers, Jason.

All Terrain Cycles - GreenEDGE Winery Ride

In the first of a series of recreational road rides that All Terrain Cycles is getting involved in this summer, the ATC bus will be heading to Nagambie for the Orica-BikeExchange Winery Ride on Sunday 20 November. Cost is $10. There are 12 seats available and a trailer to take all the bikes.
Here's the link to enter the ride.
Call 5775 2724 or email All Terrain Cycles to book your place on the bus; first in - best dressed.
(Tour of Jamieson is the following weekend. More details soon.)

Handicap Road Race, Thursday 27 Oct

A big field of cyclists assembled for the 25km Whitfield road handicap last Thursday night. First off were Di Condie and Tony Morris followed closely by Craig Wilson, Kieren Payne, Rod Manning and Janine Appleton. Next was the big bunch of Ian Conrick, Jodie Batchelor, David Jagger, David Bock, John Eisner, Tim Hall and Steve Curnow. Mel Green, Allan Gerrans, Gus Muscara and Jason Parker followed with Christine Hopkins and Will MacDonald chasing them. Arron Peterson, Dave Moore, Luke Olver, Jarrod Appleton and Anthony Plummer were off the two and a half minute mark with Dan Purcell, Bruce Halket, Mauro Brega and Darren Bakker off block. With a minute handicap, Josh Hopwood was the sole Scratch rider. Kody Appleton and Bella MacMunn started at the 20km mark.
Still early in the season, some found the pressure was on from the start. Out the front Di and Tony were riding smoothly and it took until Long Lane for them to be caught by the chasing groups despite a timing anomaly.
With three groups merging at the Broken River, Allan Gerrans and Tim Hall did most of the legwork out the front with most of the rest of the bunch struggling to keep up and stay organised. Similarly the heat was on at the faster end with Block managing to eventually catch Jarrod, Luke and Aaron. Josh almost caught Block but was unfortunately held up at the turnaround.
Meanwhile, Tim and Allan continued to form a fast turning bunch on the return trip leaving casualties on the way. Mel, Craig, Jodie, Ian, Janine, Dave J, Rod, Kody and John kept up despite two tiger snake encounters. Bella hung in until the Barwite hill claimed her and Craig.
With two Ks to go Tim boldly rode off the front and it looked for some time that no-one was going to challenge until the bunch sorted itself at Dead Horse Lane and chased him down.
In a fast sprint finish, Jodie Batchelor got up closely over Janine Appleton with Allan Gerrans a wheel back in third. David, Mel, Rod, Tim and John made up the rest of the finishing group with Dan Purcell and the rest of the scratchish bunch just twenty seconds behind.
Josh recorded the fastest time at 39’21”. Presentations, rehydration and race dissection continued at the Delatite Hotel thereafter.
Thanks again to our crew of volunteers and marshals. Results here.
Next week is the new and challenging course on Howes Creek Road (and there have already been quite a few members spotted doing secret Ks inspecting it!) Entries must be in by 8pm Wednesday.

Sunday evening news

Congratulations to Daniel Friday who today finished third overall in Veterans at the Victorian Enduro Series race at Barjarg. Well done Dan!
Read on for updates on local mtb and road racing plus more...

Mountain Biking updates

Senior Dirt Crits Race 1 - 10 October 2016
After Dirt Crits was cancelled last week this was the first race of the season, according to the race organisers. Anthony, Adam and a few others may disagree...
A mass start was the format for the first of two races for the evening, the aim being to complete one lap in the fastest time possible. Matt Empey was first over the line, closely followed by Dan Friday and then there was a small distance back to Anthony Plummer.
In the second one lap race the riders were sent according to the reverse of their finishing order from Race 1. Ollie MacDonald led off the field and Matt Empey was the last to leave.
Ollie MacDonald was first over the line in 6:55 followed by his dad 14 seconds later. Jem Davies finished in 7:11 with Brett Stevens 4 seconds later. Dave Bock finished a second ahead of a fast finishing Bruce Halket in 7:20. There was a gap to Mike Davies and Anthony Plummer was 8 seconds further back. Dan Friday was a second slower than Anthony and 14 seconds faster than Matt Empey. Adam Baker wheelied down half the finishing straight and was overtaken by Matt near the finish line.
So, first place was Ollie MacDonald in 6:55, Will MacDonald second in 7:09 and Jem Davies 3rd in 7:11.
Results here.

Senior Dirt Crits Race 2 - 17 October 2016
Damian Grundy organised a handicap event for this week’s Dirt Crits. It was a mass start with riders completing one, two or three laps. Course selection was excellent with some climbing, flat sections and also a descent down Rubbish Run.
Junior riders: Elise Empey, James Griffin and Dan Friday made up the one lappers and it was a tight finish will Elise finishing in 7mins 56sec, holding off James by 1 second with Dan Friday another second back.
Mike Davies, David Bock, Brett Stevens and Mike Fischer completed two laps with a few riders opting for three laps instead. Mike led home the field in 15 minutes, with Brett 2nd in 15.09 (even though he looked like he’d dressed for success) and Dave a little further back in 16.06. Mike Fischer wasn’t familiar with the track therefore explored a few other tracks during the race.
With Matty Empey not competing, it was going to be a tough ask to challenge Daniel Friday (Snr). Dan finished ahead of the 3 lappers in 17.56 with Bruce Halket 13sec back in 18.09. There was a gap back to Jem Davies 20.27 with Anthony ‘the legs’ Plummer coming home in fourth place on his single speed. Warwick Bottrall, a newcomer to the club, rolled Jason Parker by 8 seconds, finishing in 21.06. Adam ‘spinner’ Baker was a bit over a minute behind Jason with David Jagger rounding out the field 13 seconds adrift of Adam.
Results here.
Tomorrow, the majority of the field will be completing an Irish Handicap based on their times over the first few races. However the majority will be riding an extra lap during the race.

Individual Time Trial, Chapel Hill Road, Thursday 20 October

When the Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club hosts an Individual Time Trial, the article in the Courier usually goes on and on about how it’s the “Race of Truth” meaning that there’s nowhere to hide, that a TT gives a true indication of a rider’s strength and fitness. However, after last week’s article written by Ian Conrick, it seems the club is adopting a new moniker; the “Race of a Load of Old Cobblers!”
Resplendent in all sorts of aero gear, Josh Hopwood put everyone to the sword, again, in a time of 15 minutes and 17 seconds for the 11km along Chapel Hill Road out to Three Chains Road and back. But it wasn’t fast enough for the overall win.
“Mr Arms Aloft” for the evening went to Jarrod Appleton in a corrected time of 14.02; either side of him on the Delatite Hotel podium was Allan “Prize money” Gerrans, in 14.14 and Tim “6am” Hall in 14.33.
The rest of the top ten points-scoring positions went to Steve “I’m new to this” Curnow (14.57), Aaron “I never get time to train” Peterson (15.02), Ian “Honest as the day is long” Conrick (15.08), Josh “Skinsuit & disc wheel” Hopwood (15.17) Craig “Home ground advantage” Wilson (15.21), Bruce “Thank god there’s no skinsuit” Halket (15.37) and Jodie “Where’s my disc wheel?” Batchelor (15.39) who took out First Unplaced Female.
Special mention to Luke "I'm fairly new to this" Olver and Alex "Doughnut" Green who chose an interesting night to make a comeback to racing; and to Kieren "I'm really new to this" Payne who chose the ITT to make his racing debut! He must be mad.
Many thanks to our officials and volunteers: Di, Mauro, Dave, John and Tony. Many thanks also to the Boorolite CFA members for letting us use their shed as a marshaling area; a donation is on the way as a more substantial thank you.
The MMBCC’s Summer Series continues on Thursday 27 October with a Handicap Race along Whitfield Road, starting at the Botanic Park; entries via SMS to John on 0428 503 437 by 8pm Wednesday.
Full results can be found here.

The Fastest Ways to Improve Your Climbing

David Heatley of Cycling Inform has recently had an article published on the Bicycling Australia website. It's definitely worth a read - here's the link.

On the Couch with Simon Gerrans and Mathew Hayman

We are back On the Couch in 2016 with a very special guest and it would be great if you could join us.
This year we are honoured to have 2016 Paris-Roubaix champion Mathew Hayman join myself On the Couch. Matt Keenan will be interviewing the two of us in a relaxed format over dinner and drinks at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club on Wednesday, 16 November 2016.
The night will provide an in-depth insight into Mat’s victory in Paris-Roubaix and his professional career which spans 17 years, the highs and lows of my season and an opportunity to support brain cancer research.
Our goal is to raise in excess of $20,000 for Carrie’s Beanies 4 Brain Cancer and help fight this disease which kills more people under 40 than any other cancer and kills more children in Australia than any other disease.
We have some fantastic auction items up for grabs including signed leaders jerseys from all three Grand Tours in 2016. What an opportunity to purchase these individually or try to get the set! Auction items include:
- 2016 Giro d’Italia maglia rosa signed by Esteban Chaves
- 2016 Tour de France maillot jaune signed by Peter Sagan
- 2016 Vuelta Espana maillot rojo signed by overall winner Nairo Quintana
- 2017 Tour Down Under experience with thanks to ORICA-BikeExchange
To be redirected to the official booking website please click here.
I hope to see you at Kooyong,
Simon Gerrans.

Finally... don't forget to sign up to this newsletter by email!

Monday morning update

On the Couch with Simon Gerrans and Mathew Hayman

We are back On the Couch in 2016 with a very special guest and it would be great if you could join us.
This year we are honoured to have 2016 Paris-Roubaix champion Mathew Hayman join myself On the Couch. Matt Keenan will be interviewing the two of us in a relaxed format over dinner and drinks at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club on Wednesday, 16 November 2016.
The night will provide an in-depth insight into Mat’s victory in Paris-Roubaix and his professional career which spans 17 years, the highs and lows of my season and an opportunity to support brain cancer research.
Our goal is to raise in excess of $20,000 for Carrie’s Beanies 4 Brain Cancer and help fight this disease which kills more people under 40 than any other cancer and kills more children in Australia than any other disease.
We have some fantastic auction items up for grabs including signed leaders jerseys from all three Grand Tours in 2016. What an opportunity to purchase these individually or try to get the set! Auction items include:
- 2016 Giro d’Italia maglia rosa signed by Esteban Chaves
- 2016 Tour de France maillot jaune signed by Peter Sagan
- 2016 Vuelta Espana maillot rojo signed by overall winner Nairo Quintana
- 2017 Tour Down Under experience with thanks to ORICA-BikeExchange
To be redirected to the official booking website please click here.
I hope to see you at Kooyong,
Simon Gerrans.

Dirt Crits info

Dirt Crits will run for Seniors from Monday 3rd October and Juniors from Monday 10th October until Monday 12th December (Delatite Dash Christmas breakup), excepting Monday 31st October (due to the Melbourne Cup).
Dirt Crits are weather dependent and may be cancelled prior to, on the day of the event or during the event.
MTBA membership pricing and information has now been updated on the Join Now page.
And don't forget Dirt Crits tonight!

Winery Ride

Back onto things ‘GreenEDGE’ for a moment, don’t forget the Winery Ride from Mitchelton Winery in Nagambie on Sunday 20 November. It’s a beauty!
And if you go to the FAQs page you can see a photo of Deb Cook at last year’s ride.

Handicap Race Thursday 6 Oct

First road race for the season was held Thursday... it was good to blow the cobwebs out after winter!
First time entrant Bella Macmunn was a first-up winner from Limit. Well done Bella! Anthony Plummer, Allan Gerrans, John Eisner and Chris Taylor rounded out the top five.
Kudos to Dan Purcell who rode fastest time even though he had to ride most of the outward leg alone, into the wind, after Tom Macmunn threw a fetlock.
Results here.

Road race reminder

Just a reminder that road racing for season 2016/2017 starts tonight. Hopefully you've already entered with John on 0428 503 437. No entry, no race.
Most importantly... please remember that you need a constant-beam tail light fixed to your seat post or seat stay or you definitely WON'T get a start! Also, if you already have your light, make sure it's re-charged or it has new batteries... it needs to be visible from 200 metres!
See you this evening at the Mansfield Botanic Park at 5.30; then back at the Delatite Hotel afterwards for presentations.

End of the month news

Dirt Crits start Monday

The 2016/2017 Dirt Crits season gets underway for Adults this coming Monday 3 October.
Registration will open at 5.30 with racing starting at 6.00pm. First up it’s a Reverse Time Trial format race… whatever that is!
Kids Dirt Crits start the following week, Monday 10 October.
The full calendar will be published on the website soon.
Please make sure your MTBA membership is valid. The Join Now page has all the membership information you need (some of the pricing information might need updating but we promise we’ll get to it soon) so have a read and renew your membership before it expires.

New number plates

With thanks to All Terrain Cycles and Bike Buller, we have new number plates for Dirt Crits this season. Please take good care of them!

Road racing starts this Thursday 6 October

Just a reminder that road racing starts this coming week with a Handicap Race along the Whitfield Road to Sawpit Gully Road and back. Registration will be open at the Botanic Park at 5.30 with racing starting at 6pm.
Please remember that you’ll need to enter by 8pm Wednesday with our Handicapper, John Eisner, via SMS on 0428 503 437. No entry, no race.
(Apparently there is no truth to the rumour that calling in to see John at the pharmacy this week, complaining of various maladies and contagious diseases, will make the slightest bit of different to your handicap.)
Please also remember that you need to have a valid Cycling Australia RACE membership of the MMBCC to enter. Details can be found here.
We're always after volunteers too! If you have some spare time and would like to be involved, we'd love to see you.

Bunch rides change time

With the calendar changing to October tomorrow, it's time to change the weekend road rides. They'll now all start at 8am from the Botanic Park.
If you're thinking of coming racing, we recommend starting with a few bunch rides first.

Finally...

Go Doggies!

Midweek news - we want you!

We want you - defibrillator training

The club's new defibrillator arrives this week.
It includes a couple of hours of training from St John's so we can use it safely. This will be at the Delatite Hotel from 1pm to 3pm this Saturday 17 September.
We need club members to come along and do the training so we can take delivery of our new defib unit. Please send Paul Fletcher an email and join the list.

Road race calendar updated

The calendar for the first half of the Summer Road Series is now available here.
It includes a brand new course on Howes Creek Road, another race out at Jamieson and the duty roster. In particular, a quick shout out to David Jagger, Kieren Payne, Tom MacMunn, Dave Moore and Rod Manning who are rostered on to one of the first two races. And to Tony Copland, John Eisner, Bruce Halket and Di Condie who are the Commissaires for the first two races.
Please have a good look through and check to see when you're on duty. If you're not there,  let Bruce know and he'll include you next time. If you are rostered on but you're not available, this page contains the info you need (scroll down to Race Duty.)
Racing starts on Thursday 6 October.
(If you have a 12-month 2016 road race membership, it's still valid until 31 December.)
Work has also started on the 2017 calendar which will include a Sunday morning series (which won't be part of the usual summer series, but a separate 'climbers' series) plus the Black 'n' Tan as a stand-alone event, also on a Sunday morning. More details as soon as we get the permits.

We want you - Junior Development

The club is after someone to look after development of our junior members. We currently have a strong Junior Dirt Crits scene but want to help kids develop beyond this. We envisage skills clinics for both mtb and road, travel to some other races, perhaps even some track racing.
It's really up to you.
Please contact club President Craig 'Wil' Wilson to discuss.

We want you - Women's Riding

The club is also after someone to help encourage more women to participate in MMBCC events. We want more women to ride, race... just get involved. Cycling Victoria have a plethora of resources to help the club but we'd like someone dedicated to the cause.
Can you help?
Please contact club President Craig 'Wil' Wilson to discuss.

Bunch ride times

As Daylight Savings will begin again shortly, so Saturday and Sunday morning road bunch rides will change too. As of Saturday 1 October, weekend bunch rides will start at 8am.

One more thing...

If you're only getting this via the club Facebook page, you can receive the newsletter direct if you subscribe via MailChimp. Just fill in your info on the right of the home page, underneath our 'the social club with a cycling problem' logo.

Finally...

A little light reading here, here and here.

Sunday news

Club kit orders close shortly

The club kit is for sale again... NOW!
Seight's My Team Shop will be open for MMBCC members to purchase kit until Sunday 4 September. Here is the link you need to go to the My Team Shop page.
Then you need to email Bruce and he'll send you the password with some instructions. Orders will be extended to this coming Tuesday... then THAT'S IT till next year.

Defibrillator training

The club will receive its new defibrillator later this month. It comes with a couple of hours of training from St John's so we can use it safely.
Training will be at the Delatite Hotel from 1pm to 3pm on Saturday 17 September.
We need club members to come along and do the training so we can take delivery of our new defib unit. Please send Paul Fletcher an email and let him know you'll be there!

Off The Bike - next Sunday 11 September 6pm

It's on again... OFF THE BIKE Beyond Blue fundraiser night at the Social Bandit Brewery to talk bikes, watch the MTB world Championships LIVE on the big screen whilst drinking beer, eating pizza and donating money to a good cause.
You know... it's OK to talk.

Racing starts soon... how's your training going?

It's early September... only a month or so till we start racing again; both on- and off-road.
Keep an eye out for newsletters coming up shortly with details of where and when racing kicks off. There'll also be details on duty rosters and officiating.
PLUS... we need to get a few more road Commissaires qualified. It's easier than ever to get qualified now, as the MMBCC has our own Commissaire Assessor in the club - Jodie Batchelor - who has offered to do your assessment here. (Usually you need to travel to another race somewhere else!)
All you need to do is download the workbook, complete the written work, then the club can help you get assessed. Please contact Bruce for details.
A reminder too that weekend bunch rides that currently start at 9am will change back to 8am in October.

Membership renewals

The upcoming race season also means that for many of you, it's time to renew your club membership.
If you're a road member, renewals for 2017 will be available from 1 October. Here's the link you need.
If you're an MTBA member, you need to make sure your rolling, 12-month membership is current for summer - here's the link you need.
Please make sure you nominate Mansfield Mt Buller Cycling Club as your club when you renew online.