23/08/2008
Conditions were cool but clear for a hotly contested scratch race a Shady Creek on Saturday.
The combined A and B grade bunch consisted to some young guns like James Henry, Brenton Jones, Kane Walker and Callan Barker mixed in with some more experienced riders like Geoff Thomson and Pete Finlayson to keep the bunch under control. The race did stay under control as with the exception of Kane with a mechanical failure, most riders were still with the main group at the finish. James had looked strong all day but could not find a willing breakaway partner. At the finish he decided to just ride the field off his wheel in the run to the line. First James, Second Brenton and Third in was Callan.
C and D also combined. James Lalor was keen to set the pace from the start but Rob Monk and Neil Walker ensured that the bunch would stay together for at least a lap. Paul Kennedy and Aaron White looked comfortable for most of the first lap and when James stretched his legs on the climb the second time up Kennedy, Monk, Walker and White formed an organised chase group over the top and made sure Lalor would not get too far away. After the catch at the bottom of Sthurs Rd James again tried to push the pace. Again he was allowed to go on his own until Rob decided he needed some company. Monk jumped over the gap taking Walker with him. Aaron and Paul could not bridge the gap. In the sprint James proved too quick for Rob and held of for a well deserved win. Neil came in third.
In D grade Tammy Patrick was too strong for Cy Monk.
